Am I just a little too cynical, or did anyone else wonder if Rigarama ("open to offers") was hoping someone would actually offer their own home and hospitality?

There are some generous people here who might very well offer such a thing -- dinner at least -- but . . .

I haven't checked this thread in a while as I thought I had brought it to a tidy conclusion.

Let me assure all readers - and especially Soccr- that I was not in any way attempting to freeload on anyone.

If you look at other threads I have participated in, you can see that I have offered local information and advice about Ireland as I am familiar with my own country.

I am not so familiar with the US and hoped to receive some good advice from people familiar with it.

So to answer your own question - yes you are being too cynical.

Indeed, I think yours is the first cynical post in an otherwise positive and constructive discussion.

Bye!

Apologies, Rigarama -- I was reacting to the title of your post plus the absence of responses after a certain point, even though a lot of people had put a lot of time in trying to help you out.

Glad to know I was wrong. (Not much I can do about native cynicism though.)

That's fine.

If you look at the entries for 23 November you will see the final message from me that tries to provide a conclusion.

I understand if the title of the thread was a little misleading but I was attempting to draw in as many contributors/states as possible - maybe even in friendly competition with each other in support of their own place.

In all, I think it was fairly succesful, even if it came down to a duel between San Antonio and West Florida in the end.

Tim

P.S. I'm still curious at the lack of input from Alabama!

They don't have computers in Alabama. :)

Oh you know you all wanted to say that.

If you are still looking for a place to stay, www.vrbo.com has about a billion listings for condo rental in Naples and Bonita Beach area.

We have used that site several time and have always gotten a wonderful place from a wonderful owner for much less than a hotel.

Naples is lovely with many outdoor cafes and fountains on every corner. You will like it very much.

Oh, and one more thing about mid-February. A lot of schools are now getting Presidents week off. In fact we'll be in Naples during that time.

This year it is Feb. 15-Feb. 24. You might find things a bit more expensive and a bit more crowded.

Oh, and here are some GREAT rental car codes. This one from Thrifty gave us really great rates.

Thrifty: Receive special discounted rates, free unlimited mileage, free additional driver fees and no drop off fees in Florida when you rent from Thrifty. Use corporate code 004M001010

Other car discounts: http://www.mousesavers.com/rentalcar.html

I lived in Columbia, SC for 7 years.. not a great tourist place, but great to live as beach was 2+ hrs away.. I would go to Savannah. From there you can spend a day in Charleston, Mt Pleasanr area, a day in Hilton Head. Could go up to Akin, SC.. a wonderful horse country..small town with several great restaurants and a
renovated theater.. could drive up toward Myrtle Beach and Pawleys Island, Litchfield- several state parks, and a FABULOUS place called Brookgreen Gardens.. lots of history, bronze statues, etc

I believe Rigarama's trip is over by now, since he was going in mid-February.

Maybe Rigarama will come back and tell us how his trip to Florida was.