I'll be going back to Sarasota to look at property and someone mentioned to go the Tiki Bar in Casey Key.

Anyone been, I hear it's a fun place.

The tiki bar is at the Casey Key Fish House restaurant. Unfortunately, the restaurant had a major fire in early March I believe, and it was still closed the last I heard. The tiki bar in the opposite end of the parking lot is open with a somewhat limited menu but the main purpose of going there is more drinking than eating.
Fun place...yes it is. Don't bother dressing up and say hi to Skeeter, the best barmaid around.

Thanks Roy...

Is "Skeeter" the bartender who is a dead ringer for Sandra Bullock. That's what my friends said.

I'm glad it's a real casual place. Can't wait to go and also move down to Sarasot end of summer.

Thanks again.

roy,

I wondered where Skeeter disappeared to? If and when you see her please tell her that Andy from Siesta Key says hello.

Thanks!

No resemblance to Sandra Bullock.

I'll say hello to her for you.

I'm also looking forward to seeing Siesta Key tomorrow after I arrive and get situated. I've seen St. Armands.

Thanks again.

Lucky you. I wish I were going -- and I wish I were buying some beach property (you will not be sorry).

I was at Clearwater last wknd, just enjoying the beach for my anniversary. It is blazing out there so be sure to get a nice cabana and stay out of the sun, floridabound. I promise you'll still get a tan.

My favorite tiki bar is the Ka'Tiki at Sunset Beach. It started small but has been growing as they've added on. I wonder if there are any of those huge towering tiki bars in Florida like some I visited in Jamaica. Anybody know of any?

To Tandoori Girl, et al.

Just back from Lakewood Ranch area and Sarasota. I looked non-stop at all sorts of villas and small houses. (Relocating to Florida end of summer, early fall). Just me, so I don't need a huge home.

Finally, got to the Tiki Bar at Casey Key. You were all right, what a fabulous place, loved it. It was very hot but were able to get a table right by the water by where the band is. We had a slight breeze.

What a great people watching place.

Back to the real estate hunt. Wow. have prices soared. I'm still debating whether I should look again around the Palm Harbor area, although I like it up near Sarasota. I think Lakewood Ranch and also down the Road around University Place is very nice. I have a few more months before I sell here in the DC area, lots to think about.

Weather was hot but still beautiful, I love Florida. Wish I could afford the beach area but it's extremely expensive.

I, also loved visiting Siesta Key. Ate at Gilligan's Island...great food and a great town with a stunning beach.

Thanks for all your advice, it really helped.

Beach real estate prices have sky-rocketed, especially for individual homes. But there seems to still be a lot of bargains in condos, IMO. You might broaden your search to other areas of Florida. Have you looked elsewhere?

Hi Floridabound

Glad to hear you like the Sarasota area so well! We're quite fond of it too. One suggestion I might make would be to rent for awhile in the area and you may come across what you're looking for.

Some of the existing communities like Palm-Aire (right off Univ Pkwy) are real nice and they include condos, townhouses and homes. Bradenton has much to offer and many of us consider it a sister city area. There's a lot of nice places off Cortez Rd in Bradenton too.

Like you, we still have a place in the DC area.

Tandoori Girl & LN

LN - Where do you live in the DC area. I'm very close to Tysons Corner and I don't think I'll have a problem when I put my house up for sale. I hear property around here are in bidding wars.

Tandoori Girl:
Yes, I've been out to Florida 3 times this year. Bonita Springs, St. Pete/Clearwater, Melbounrne (my least favorite) but my best friend is moving there because of family). Melbourne we be a logical choice for me because of my friend and her family and I would know someone in Florida. My favorite area is Sarasota/Manatee .

This past week, I visited, most of the developments from Lakewood Ranch, Palmer Ranch, Palm Aire, El Conquistador and several areas in between.

Yes, I know I need to rent but I'm trying to decide which area. My best friend still thinks to start off, I should move and rent in Melboune/Rockledge just to be near them and I can always go on weekends to look in Sarasota area.

I probably sound so indecisive but it's such a major change,a bit scary since I don't know many people out there. However, I have found everyone I have come in contact with so so very friendly and helpful.

I'll keep you posted.