tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-246155832011-11-06T20:21:02.203-06:00Life on Pleasure Island, the beautiful sugar white sands of Gulf Shores & Orange Beach, Alabama.BrettRobinsonnoreply@blogger.comBlogger3111100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-79509858094989835952011-01-25T06:19:00.000-06:002011-01-25T06:21:19.729-06:00

There are two reasons why I desperately need to shop. First, and most important, my mother’s birthday is in two weeks. I actually enjoy shopping for my mom. She’s like me—she likes fun, interesting gifts. This gives me several shopping options in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach: stores with unique gifts, custom designed jewelry, antiques and fine art. I’m sure to find something she’ll love (and doesn’

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-19461210887817370662011-01-20T06:11:00.000-06:002011-01-20T06:13:34.974-06:00

Winter in Gulf Shores & Orange Beach beats winter anywhere else in this country, in my opinion (and I’m sure visiting snowbirds will agree). Not only is the temperature much more tolerable than further north, but there is so much to do than just lie on the beach and swim in the Gulf—because comparatively “warm” as it may be, swimming outdoors in 50- and 60-degree temperatures just isn’t that

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-63396434669123648432011-01-19T06:51:00.000-06:002011-01-19T06:52:45.295-06:00

One member of our upcoming guys’ golf trip is complaining that he’s not up to par (no pun intended) with his golf game lately. I would like to be able to reassure him…but after playing a round with him this past weekend, I have to admit he’s right. In his defense, though, he couldn’t play for several weeks due to an injury.He thinks it’s going to ruin the big group trip to Gulf Shores & Orange

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-79498722118761018182011-01-18T07:47:00.001-06:002011-01-18T07:48:37.430-06:00

Financially, this is a difficult time of year for me: car taxes are due, my home warranty is up for renewal, and then of course the dreaded income tax has to be dealt with (I always end up owing something). Meanwhile, I’m also trying to plan my vacations. And yes, they are a priority.Fortunately, I’ve caught a break concerning vacation financing, thanks to Brett/Robinson’s latest deal. If you

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-39854678438091896462011-01-14T07:07:00.001-06:002011-01-14T07:17:53.784-06:00

What would you do if you came across a briefcase full of money? Would you spend it? Turn it over to the authorities? Maybe both? I like to think I would turn it in; I have way too much of a guilty conscience to go spending someone else’s money.No, I’m not asking for advice—the only money I’ve found lately is a ten dollar bill that had been hiding in my winter coat pocket since last year. South

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-17128432304889130152011-01-13T07:47:00.001-06:002011-01-13T07:51:03.465-06:00

Oh boy, it’s on now. I just got word that one of my good friends will be in town for the Hangout Beach, Music, and Arts Festival in May!He’s visiting with his family, and they’ve managed to reserve a condo with Island Winds West, which overlooks the Hangout Music Fest. I know who I’m bunking with that weekend!They are going to have a blast at this place: besides being right there in the Music

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-8109426130402357142011-01-12T07:26:00.001-06:002011-01-12T07:33:42.766-06:00

I may be living in the south, but I have experienced more cold weather so far this winter than I really care for. Snow, ice, below average temperatures…spring really can’t get here fast enough.And yet I know that spring really will get here fast—maybe faster than I’m ready for if I don’t start planning now. For starters, I like to start working early toward getting myself in shape for the warm

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-84627647468218138922011-01-11T07:40:00.001-06:002011-01-11T07:42:26.337-06:00

I often dream of getting my own boat—a big boat. Maybe a yacht. I think I would give up my house and live on this yacht, and spend my days cruising along the Gulf Coast, fishing, and just relaxing.Alright, so that’s a bit far-fetched, unless I manage to win the lottery. But a small, reasonably priced boat is not as much of a stretch, and is actually part of my long-term goals (actually, it’s been

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-69106721760768637082011-01-10T14:41:00.001-06:002011-01-10T14:42:32.058-06:00

One of my cousins got a karaoke machine for Christmas and shared it with the family on New Year’s Eve. Honestly, I had never done karaoke before. I think I am officially hooked.Even though it was a small gathering of family, belting out some of my favorite tunes gave me a little bit of a rush. They may disagree, but I think my voice isn’t half bad. I just need a little practice—perhaps my own

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-15164529342016946622011-01-10T06:42:00.002-06:002011-01-10T06:44:56.002-06:00

Believe it or not, Valentine’s Day is close—February will be here before we know it. If you really want to wow that special someone, start planning now; being caught empty-handed on the big day is no fun (and, unfortunately, I speak from experience).If you really want to make the holiday special, plan a trip to Alabama’s Gulf Coast. Book a condo with Brett/Robinson and you’ll have a couple great

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-61180079424761331962011-01-07T05:54:00.001-06:002011-01-07T05:55:46.648-06:00

I’m getting old. I’m not that old yet, but I feel myself getting older. The two rounds of golf I played this past weekend—after not playing in several weeks—really took a physical toll on me. Guess I really need to whip myself into shape before my first big golf trip of the year.I’m also looking at ways to ease my sore muscles after a good long game of golf. One method that often helps when I’m

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-64925908186685424252011-01-06T13:04:00.000-06:002011-01-06T13:10:10.403-06:00

Getting back into the swing of things after the Christmas holiday is always tough for me. I had a nice visit with family complete with several days of celebrating and over-eating. Now the decorations have come down and regular life is setting back in.But there’s always something to look forward to, and right now I’m setting my sights on the next big celebration: Mardi Gras. If you’re looking for

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-49828835696912021692010-12-31T10:25:00.001-06:002010-12-31T10:26:51.192-06:00

Imagine starting off the New Year with an ice—I mean nice—cold dip in the Gulf of Mexico. I’ve imagined it for years, and I still don’t think I could do it. But come Saturday, January 1st, the “polar bears” of the south will be doing just that at the Annual Polar Bear Dip at the Florida/Alabama line. The snowbirds from up north may consider the Gulf Coast warm this time of year, but my skin will

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-52498776011208069382010-12-28T21:35:00.001-06:002010-12-28T21:36:17.182-06:00

The new driver was an excellent Christmas present, but even better was the phone call from one of my annual golf trip buddies. It was questionable whether he was going to be able to make this year’s trip to Gulf Shores, but he managed to work things out and has guaranteed that he will be there.His addition will make for a nice group this year, which makes me even more grateful for Brett/Robinson’

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-41348694945698647822010-12-21T04:39:00.001-06:002010-12-21T04:40:45.674-06:00

It’s been a long time since I’ve actually wished for something for Christmas. I feel slightly childish, but there is something particular that I’m hoping for: a Brett/Robinson gift certificate. I can think of no better gift than that of the beach (which is why I am actually giving this very gift to my parents this year).And I know exactly how I’ll use it (if I do get one). In honor of the New

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-73789829555325691362010-12-20T05:57:00.001-06:002010-12-20T05:58:45.031-06:00

There is no place I’d rather start the New Year than on the Alabama Gulf Coast. For anyone who has this same idea in mind, you really should check out The Wharf’s New Year’s Eve Block Party, complete with dining, live music, and a midnight fireworks display.The music starts at 5:00 p.m. with Lee Yankie and his soulful R&B tunes. Next up is The Rez at 7:30 p.m.—oldies, rock, and the Top 40.

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-19089855848867276832010-12-14T05:37:00.001-06:002010-12-14T05:39:34.130-06:00

I went to the store today and saw Easter candy. Yes, those creamy little eggs are already out in some stores (or at least in my store) even before the Christmas fudge has been baked. Part of me was shocked, and part of me thought longingly of Easter and spring weather. And yet another part of me was hungry for chocolate and bought the candy.Even closer than Easter is Valentine’s Day, and though I

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-40212263696885109552010-12-13T12:19:00.001-06:002010-12-13T12:19:45.106-06:00

Golf is the best pastime no matter what time of year. I can think of several benefits of playing golf in each season. For winter, I can think of two main reasons: the weather and the deals.Yes, I said the weather. I enjoy playing in the cooler weather—such a change from summer’s heat. And the “cold” weather along Alabama’s Gulf Coast doesn’t compare to what people experience further north. I’ll

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-409371027973116192010-12-10T13:50:00.001-06:002010-12-10T13:51:41.757-06:00

Christmas parties and parades, Santa Claus events, holiday concerts—these are all excellent events that make me love this time of year and the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area. (Santa vs. the Snowman at the IMAX was also pretty awesome.)But if you really want to get into the southern spirit of Christmas, check out Cinnamon Grits: Christmas in the South on Monday, December 13th at 7:30 p.m.

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-79606460101346613992010-12-08T12:48:00.001-06:002010-12-08T12:49:30.988-06:00

‘Tis the season for good will and inspiration, and thanks to the Gulf Coast Gospel Showcase, one particular good will gesture will extend all the way into April 2011.The Gulf Coast Gospel Showcase is a series of gospel concerts presented by Lighthouse Gospel Productions of Romar Beach Baptist Church in Orange Beach. The concerts will feature several well-known gospel singers from around the

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-88769116724510113802010-11-30T05:28:00.001-06:002010-11-30T05:30:50.176-06:00

This is a proud day for me: it’s still November and I’ve managed to finish all my holiday shopping. Not only have I finished, but I’m actually pretty pleased with the gifts I found this year. My favorite is the Brett/Robinson gift certificate I bought for my parents—I can’t wait to see their reaction.Gift-buying is bitter sweet for me. I enjoy it, but it always leaves me a little light in the

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-61238340786213006622010-11-23T21:14:00.001-06:002010-11-23T21:15:16.206-06:00

So the biggest shopping day of the year is this Friday. Hundreds (thousands?) of shoppers will line up at the doors of their favorite stores before they’re even open in hopes of grabbing some hot items for some great prices. Ordinarily, I avoid any shopping on this day at all costs—I tolerate Cyber Monday and its online deals much better.But weekend passes to next year’s Hangout Music Festival

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-39958225611342856292010-11-19T05:48:00.001-06:002010-11-19T05:49:37.298-06:00

I am not afraid to admit that I love a good holiday activity—and I am so stoked about the “Santa Vs. the Snowman” movie at IMAX! This isn’t your typical Santa story—this is Santa and the Snowman going head to head on a snow-filled battlefield. And you’re watching it on the IMAX screen. It’s a whole new level of awesomeness.This is just one of several holiday events going on in the Gulf Shores/

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-71040563618215419852010-11-18T05:58:00.000-06:002010-11-18T05:59:19.419-06:00

Not to sound like a kid, but I know exactly what I want for Christmas this year: a Brett/Robinson gift certificate. These gift certificates are good toward accommodations at a Brett/Robinson rental property. They don’t apply to golf (which of course was my first thought), but that’s okay—the money saved using a gift certificate could go toward a round or two of golf (or more, depending on how

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-83623383584865324542010-11-16T07:10:00.000-06:002010-11-16T07:12:14.638-06:00

‘Tis the season for giving, right? I tend to get bogged down with thoughts of gift buying and giving. It isn’t that I mind gift giving—when I get it right and manage to give someone something he actually wants and/or needs, it feels really nice. Then there are those times when I just don’t know what to get for certain people. I end up getting them a gift just for the sake of giving a gift, and

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-55281552981756335052010-11-12T13:26:00.001-06:002010-11-12T13:28:15.183-06:00

Like many people, I like to relax while on vacation. Yes, lounging on the beach and floating down the lazy river are major components of my relaxation regimen. But too much lying around starts to have a reverse effect on me—I go completely stir-crazy. I have to have some form of physical activity.The more opportunities for sport activity a condominium offers, the better: tennis courts, basketball

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-25780805931968354962010-11-11T20:15:00.001-06:002010-11-11T20:16:49.064-06:00

The Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show is taking place this Friday and Saturday, November 12th and 13th, at the Naval Air Station in Pensacola. If you’ve never seen the Blue Angels before, I highly recommend this event. Maybe you’re an expert on everything aircraft-related, or maybe you would just be in complete awe of the air acrobatics that take place during this show. Either way, it’s an event

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-671965262896195612010-11-05T07:37:00.000-05:002010-11-05T07:38:05.928-05:00

I can’t believe Thanksgiving is only three weeks away! Which means a break from school is only three weeks away, then just a few more weeks of school before another break. We have officially entered my favorite time of year. I think it’s time to start getting into the spirit of the season with a little early Christmas shopping!I love shopping in the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area. The weather

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-79969092666857886842010-11-03T12:21:00.001-05:002010-11-03T12:23:07.617-05:00

As much as I enjoy golf, I don’t get to do much with the sport, like attend PGA tournaments and other big golf events. And that’s ok, because I do play fairly often and I’d really rather play than watch.But I think this is why I tend to gravitate toward playing on golf courses that have some sort of “history”—courses where noteworthy golf events have taken place. And there are several in the Gulf

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-88805950793407780112010-11-02T13:02:00.001-05:002010-11-02T13:03:53.122-05:00

I love sports. I love to play them, I love to watch them. And it doesn’t matter much what sport it is—if there is physical movement and competition of some sort, I’m game. (Unless it’s synchronized swimming—I just can’t get into that one.)Being able to attend a live sporting event is even better. So I was glad to hear that while I’m getting a little rest and relaxation at Island Winds East in

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-19511457288063438382010-10-28T08:02:00.000-05:002010-10-28T08:04:01.637-05:00

There’s talk of a “buddies reunion” among some of my old college friends. It’s been years since all of us have been able to hang out together, and my former college roommate called me last week and suggested we organize a small reunion. I agreed and, of course, suggested we make it a beach reunion.Now I have a reason to rent a beach house through Brett/Robinson. It’s been a while since I’ve gone

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-74517241260090210012010-10-27T06:05:00.001-05:002010-10-27T06:07:28.611-05:00

There are three reasons this Saturday is significant. First, it’s the day before Halloween, which means there will be lots of Saturday night pre-Halloween parties.The second reason is the Original German Sausage Festival in Elberta from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. This is especially significant if you love sausage—this festival has the best you will ever taste. The town’s founding fathers developed the

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-22167679295388356962010-10-22T16:16:00.001-05:002010-10-22T16:17:27.351-05:00

Golf is obviously a major factor when planning a golf getaway. Striking the right balance between cost, challenge, and scenery that fits your personal preference is important when choosing which courses to play.But it’s not the only thing that determines the success of the getaway. Where you stay has the potential to make or break the vacation. Again, finding the right balance between cost and

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-19264769898759085982010-10-21T12:11:00.000-05:002010-10-21T12:12:14.988-05:00

So the fall snapper season has been open (on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays) for a couple weeks now, and I haven’t been out there fishing yet—this fall semester has kept me pretty busy, even on weekends.But that’s changing this weekend. I’m clearing my schedule and hanging with a good friend who’s visiting with his family for the weekend. And you guessed it: we’ll be hitting the Gulf with our

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-80705483971286127392010-10-19T11:10:00.001-05:002010-10-19T11:12:32.440-05:00

I don’t care how old I get, Halloween is still fun. The house is already decorated with ghosts and pumpkins, my costume is ready to go, and I’m just waiting for the parties to begin.In and around Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area, the parties will be starting up soon enough. The Uptown Foley Halloween Party takes place on Thursday, October 28th in the streets of downtown Foley—games, face

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-71203107568520057362010-10-15T15:21:00.001-05:002010-10-15T15:22:21.528-05:00

I was sitting around the other day, dreaming of my next vacation and browsing Brett/Robinson’s Orange Beach Today website when I discovered that of all the things I’ve done along the Alabama Gulf Coast, I’ve never taken a tour.In particular, I’ve never toured from the air. And there are a couple ways to do this in the Gulf Shores area. One is by plane—or biplane. The Bird of Paradise biplane

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-72662543305972605872010-10-12T12:11:00.001-05:002010-10-12T12:12:36.310-05:00

I like trying new things concerning vacation, but I rarely want to give up a visit to the Gulf. The Gulf Shores/Orange Beach area is my favorite place to vacation. Period. I’m not usually willing to spend vacation time elsewhere.But I have yet to stay at Brett/Robinson’s newest property, Phoenix West, which means I’ll get to try something new without sacrificing my favorite getaway spot.And I

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-44102043528191073342010-10-08T06:27:00.000-05:002010-10-08T06:28:11.027-05:00

So I’m heading out to the Magnolia Corn Maze with some friends this weekend. This is maybe my favorite October activity. There’s just something about wandering through the meandering, corn-stalk-lined paths that screams autumn. The hayrides are fun, too—they make me feel like a kid again!I may have to make a return trip at the end of the month. That’s when they do trick or treat in the maze, and

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-58386943290685256502010-10-07T06:13:00.000-05:002010-10-07T06:15:26.078-05:00

So it won’t be much longer and the leaves will be changing. In fact, the trees in my backyard are already showing signs of change, with a couple red leaves here and there. Fall is here, and it’s a great time of year for nature.If you’re looking for a scenic and relaxing autumn drive this season, you might check out Alabama’s Coastal Connection, which was just ranked as one of the 50 most

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-28296568471810770812010-10-06T11:55:00.001-05:002010-10-06T11:56:42.843-05:00

There are so many reasons to visit Gulf Shores and Orange Beach this month. The Shrimp Festival starts October 7th, the Bon Jovi and Brad Paisley concerts take place October 15th and 17th, Thunder on the Gulf is from the 12th to the 17th, and then there’s golf—which is just about the best activity you can undertake on the Gulf this time of year. The best part: Brett/Robinson has deals to

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-60086061459747388302010-09-30T13:32:00.000-05:002010-09-30T13:33:11.264-05:00

Couples seem to enjoy fall. There’s something about the seasonal cool-down that really warms up romance. It’s a popular time of year for romantic getaways and weddings. It’s also an ideal time to take advantage of Brett/Robinson’s romance vacation package.Packages can include a gourmet basket with your choice of beverage, dinner for two at the Sunset Cork Room in Gulf Shores, and a private boat

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-44344215196238615822010-09-29T12:30:00.001-05:002010-09-29T12:32:08.379-05:00

A good friend of mine is a songwriter—an “unrealized great songwriter,” as he jokingly refers to himself. He’s written several pieces for fun but has never known what to do with them. Lucky for him, the 26th Annual Frank Brown Songwriters Festival is taking place November 11th to 21st. The festival creates an opportunity for both seasoned and aspiring songwriters to have their music heard.

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-25509423279569652592010-09-26T13:39:00.001-05:002010-09-26T13:46:40.823-05:00

I’m not really a big fan of driving. I don’t like dealing with other cars and drivers, using up gas (and paying for more), and hunting for parking spots. The worse is when you’ve just spent hours in the car driving to your vacation destination and then have to drive all over the place to do anything outside of the hotel/condo.That’s one of the reasons why vacationing with Brett/Robinson is so

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-77424924465158443142010-09-25T08:31:00.001-05:002010-09-25T08:31:43.866-05:00

One thing I really look forward to about fall is the golf. Autumn along Alabama’s Gulf Coast presents the best conditions for putting around the golf course—still warm, but without the extreme heat.It’s also an excellent time of year for booking a golf vacation. Fall is such a fun, active time in the Gulf Shores/Orange Beach area, the weather is ideal—why not take advantage of a Brett/Robinson

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-21152068968844364702010-09-24T15:53:00.003-05:002010-09-24T15:53:58.797-05:00

I had completely forgotten how much I love the Ferris Wheel at The Wharf. Crazy as it sounds, I haven’t been on it in a couple years. Guess I thought I’d outgrown it! Which is completely crazy—how can you outgrow the tallest Ferris wheel in the southeast?A group of us decided to take a ride on it the other night, and I’m glad we did: there’s nothing quite like the view you get at the top of this

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-7458091611431090612010-09-24T09:09:00.000-05:002010-09-24T09:10:23.414-05:00

It may officially be fall now, but it doesn’t feel like it yet, and I still find myself longing for summer activity. I’m already missing last season’s adventures and looking forward to my next getaway—and it’s going to be a good one.Thanks to some saved up vacation time and Brett/Robinson’s three free nights deal, I’ll be spending a whopping ten days in Gulf Shores. Ten days of beach napping,

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-20224668861542626322010-09-23T21:04:00.001-05:002010-09-23T21:05:38.099-05:00

It seems like the older I get, the busier I get, and lately I haven’t had as much time to spend with my family (yeah, now I can appreciate the lecture I got from my parents on this topic a few years back). Any opportunity for all of us to hang out is golden, and the Slo-Poker Run on Saturday, October 2nd is one of those opportunities.There are so many reasons why I’m looking forward to this: it’s

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-70678481559007632642010-09-17T11:25:00.001-05:002010-09-17T11:26:47.953-05:00

It’s almost that time of year again in Gulf Shores: time for kicking off the fall season with delicious food, live music, and several other activities. It’s the 39th Annual National Shrimp Festival, and it’s less than a month away now.The four-day event, which runs from Thursday, October 7th to Sunday, October 10th, features fine arts and crafts from over 200 vendors, a retail marketplace, and

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-21037165058165467292010-09-14T15:47:00.001-05:002010-09-14T15:48:30.045-05:00

Those of us who love the Alabama Gulf Coast can appreciate the importance and brilliance of nature and its preservation. The area is home to its own amazing array of plant and animal life. So it’s very fitting—and very exciting—that the international See the Bigger Picture photo exhibit, which has visited various cities around the world, is opening at the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center.The

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-90427730047611915562010-09-10T14:36:00.001-05:002010-09-10T14:37:30.619-05:00

There are many reasons why I enjoy kayaking: the freedom of guiding the kayak through the open water, the exercise, and the thrill of exploration, to name a few. It’s also a nice social opportunity, if you go on a kayaking tour.One of Brett/Robinson’s vacation packages is the Alabama Kayak Adventure package, which includes kayak excursions for up to six people. This is a great way to explore the

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-53998999779071915682010-09-10T06:44:00.003-05:002010-09-10T06:47:10.620-05:00

The great thing about golf these days is anyone can do it: men and women, old people and young people, the wealthy and the not-so-wealthy. It fits in with pretty much any lifestyle…and any vacation style.However you layout your vacation plans, you can likely fit golf into the equation, if you want to. (And if you’re visiting the Gulf Shores/Orange Beach area, you will want to.) Obvious examples

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-81771871418689711412010-09-09T06:21:00.000-05:002010-09-09T06:22:37.485-05:00

Oh yeah, I can already feel the adrenaline rush. Thunder on the Gulf is back! It’s been a couple years, but the excitement of this event hasn’t left me. And now I’m focusing in on one particular week: October 12th to the 17th.This is when the race boats will make their way to Orange Beach and wow us with some amazing Gulf racing. And not to mention the parties, getting to meet the racers, awards

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-4177681282791148352010-09-08T12:49:00.001-05:002010-09-08T12:52:03.122-05:00

I was a die-hard Bon Jovi fan as a kid, and I think it’s great how he’s still performing today. Lately it seems like he’s been popping up all over the place, and on October 15th he’ll be popping in at the Gulf Shores Public Beach for a free concert.It’s part of the Concerts for the Coast series to help raise awareness of the Gulf Coast. Another music great, Brad Paisley, will also perform that

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-85780768933843055012010-08-27T05:53:00.001-05:002010-08-27T05:54:52.456-05:00

I see a lot of families vacationing at the Gulf. It’s such a nice sight: young couples spending some much-needed quality vacation time with their children. It’s the epitome of a “family vacation." And Gulf Shores/Orange Beach is an ideal spot for these types of getaways. The Wharf has a number of kid-friendly activities, such as the Ferris wheel (the tallest in the southeast), the zip line and

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-69091832302834525602010-08-25T15:26:00.000-05:002010-08-25T15:27:35.972-05:00

I’ve stayed in several of Brett/Robinson’s Phoenix condominiums and have had an excellent experience each time. So I’m really looking forward to the opening of the newest Phoenix property, Phoenix West II.This place is going to be amazing: 31 floors of Mediterranean-style condos with Gulf-front terraces and amenities like heated indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, hot tubs, saunas, and a

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-73069046132279065482010-08-20T05:50:00.001-05:002010-08-20T05:58:27.161-05:00

Music and the beach go together so well…just like peanut butter and jelly (which is also good on the beach at lunch). It’s why I always have my iPod when I’m sunning in the sand, why beach parties are such a hit, and why catching a concert while vacationing at the Gulf is such a fun experience.And maybe that’s why Brett/Robinson is offering another music concert special—free tickets Hank Jr's

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-5097109203465178222010-08-18T11:40:00.003-05:002010-08-18T11:41:37.449-05:00

I don’t know how many times I’ve thought, as I’m getting ready to return home from a blissful Gulf Shores vacation, that I would love to live there full time—just stay right in one of Brett/Robinson’s Phoenix condos. One day, maybe; retirement has to come eventually.Of course, you don’t have to wait until retirement to own a condo—or other property—in Gulf Shores/Orange Beach. Purchase real

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-67555720175992526752010-08-13T15:57:00.000-05:002010-08-13T15:58:09.573-05:00

Labor Day is in our sights, ready to provide us with some end-of-summer relief after we’ve all returned to work and school after a season of “getting away.” That one-day extension of the weekend gives us the opportunity to kick back and have some fun during the last warm days of the year. It’s also a great time to squeeze in one last getaway to Gulf Shores/Orange Beach before fall sets in.If you

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-48034296161737150492010-08-11T06:29:00.001-05:002010-08-11T06:33:55.549-05:00

One thing I really love about vacationing in a condo is the ability to make meals. But I have a love-hate relationship with condo cooking: I love spending a relaxing evening in the condo and not having to worry about getting ready to go out, but I hate cooking. Or rather, I hate preparing to cook. I’m just not good at meal planning. I’m never sure what to make or what to buy to make it.This is

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-38365922540445250392010-08-07T06:35:00.001-05:002010-08-07T06:37:24.587-05:00

I enjoy the heat—definitely prefer it to the cold—but it’s been testing my limits this summer. It’s certainly been a hot one, and the heat wave looks like it’s going to continue for a while.The upside is, it’s perfect weather for swimming, a very popular hot-weather pastime—and I’ve enjoyed every moment spent in the water this summer. Pools are obviously a popular choice, and anyone vacationing

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-41994720076442068542010-08-04T08:45:00.001-05:002010-08-04T08:47:23.667-05:00

I can’t believe August has rolled around already. Soon it will be September, which means we’re coming into the last stretch of summer. If you’re in the Gulf Shores/Orange Beach area and you like music, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to end the season with a bang.First up is the Sugarland concert this Friday (August 6th) at the Amphitheater in Orange Beach. You know it’s going to be quite a

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-30403616240678573842010-07-30T14:10:00.001-05:002010-07-30T14:12:48.773-05:00

I know we’re only halfway through summer, but the fall buzz has already begun: back-to-school sales, people tiring of the heat and longing for cooler weather, and some stores have even started putting out fall decorations.For many of us, summer travel is coming to an end soon, if it hasn’t already ended. This thought always depresses me—and then I start making plans for fall trips down to Alabama

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-54029768098736779842010-07-29T20:34:00.002-05:002010-07-29T20:39:15.972-05:00

People often think of hotels as places “just to rest your head.” And it’s a valid argument—most of the hotels I’ve ever stayed at have been small, one-room lodgings intended only for the purpose of having a place to sleep when you’re traveling and don’t want to spend much on accommodations.This simply doesn’t apply to Brett/Robinson’s Phoenix All Suites Hotels in Gulf Shores. For starters, the

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-28138442697521391272010-07-23T15:21:00.001-05:002010-07-23T15:23:06.824-05:00

I’ve explored the Alabama Gulf Coast in a variety of ways: walking the beaches, hiking nature trails, driving along Alabama’s Coastal Connection, and simply observing the Gulf from my condo balcony. I’ve seen it from the air, too—in an airplane, which just isn’t the same as flying over in a hot air balloon.No, that wasn’t just a random comparison. One of the vacation packages available with Brett

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-61461689943483322242010-07-21T13:43:00.002-05:002010-07-21T13:45:00.904-05:00

Beauty is a major characteristic of Gulf Shores/Orange Beach area. If you think I’m only referring to the beaches, then you’ve never visited the Orange Beach Arts Center—an ideal place for exploring the local aesthetics.Home to more than 120 local artists, the Center’s gallery features regularly changing exhibits of paintings, pottery, and sculptures. The best part about this type of beauty is it

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-28328770467333843182010-07-19T09:52:00.002-05:002010-07-19T09:54:36.020-05:00

I always try to save up for my vacations. At a minimum, I save enough to easily book my Gulf Shores or Orange Beach condo. Then I try to save as much spending money as I can before my trip. And then I try to spend as little of this money as possible.This is easy to accomplish in the Gulf Shores/Orange Beach area. Nature itself offers an abundance of entertainment: strolling the beaches, hiking

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-64936378405192718042010-07-15T15:00:00.001-05:002010-07-15T15:02:07.089-05:00

I developed a habit as a kid where every time I took a trip somewhere, I had to find the perfect souvenir. For years, sand castles, sharks’ teeth, and those small bottles of sand with tiny seashells constituted “perfect” souvenirs in my mind.Now that I’m older, I’ve (mostly) outgrown my childish taste for silly little trinkets, but not my desire for souvenir shopping. Fortunately, the Alabama

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-64051632257660000082010-07-13T20:09:00.001-05:002010-07-13T20:11:22.002-05:00

It’s been a while since I vacationed in a beach house. I have to say, I really enjoy the condo experience: pools provide a nice alternative to ocean swimming and are a great place to meet other people, and amenities like tennis courts, putting greens, exercise rooms, and saunas are fun distractions. Not to mention the lazy rivers at several of the Brett/Robinson properties—it doesn’t get much

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-66003313583286687672010-07-07T15:27:00.001-05:002010-07-07T15:29:55.743-05:00

On Wednesday, July 28th, Bellingrath Gardens and Home will celebrate its 75th anniversary. If you want to learn more about the home and its architecture, that’s the day to visit.Of course, it’s a great place to visit any time. What’s not to love about a 10,500-square-foot home built in 1935? The original furnishings and a variety of gardens over a 65-acre estate make this a beautiful and

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-84960960152447664792010-06-22T12:50:00.001-05:002010-06-22T12:53:28.911-05:00

It seems like so much focus is placed on golf when it comes to resorts. For good reason, of course—golf is a great game, and the course options along Alabama’s Gulf Coast are both plentiful and beautiful.But golf isn’t the only great resort sport, and several of Brett/Robinson’s condos offer an alternative for the active-minded: tennis. It’s great exercise, it’s fun, and tennis courts are one of

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-9833411737429305482010-06-16T16:24:00.002-05:002010-06-16T16:27:30.094-05:00

One of the great things about visiting historic sites and museums is getting a glimpse into the past and seeing what things were like way back when. What’s really neat is when there are actual objects from a certain time and place—things you can look at and think, “People from a long time ago used this very thing.”So it’s pretty cool that one of the cannons from the Confederate raider CSS ALABAMA

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-1018543706541370082010-06-14T08:52:00.003-05:002010-06-14T08:57:50.485-05:00

There seem to be a lot of wedding anniversaries this time of year. For about the past month I’ve seen Facebook posts announcing anniversaries at least once a week, and I know more are coming.It’s understandable—spring/early summer is an ideal time for having a wedding and going on that long-anticipated honeymoon. Romance is in the air!Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, honeymooning, or

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-51659735193562232172010-06-13T14:12:00.001-05:002010-06-13T14:13:42.472-05:00

One of my favorite things about summer is cooking out. Ever since I was a kid, when my dad would breakout the charcoal (you gotta love the smell of charcoal), cooking out on a grill has been one of my most beloved summer time activities.It’s a convenient and easy way to make dinner, too, and is particularly useful on “eat in” nights during a vacation. Just buy some burgers, steaks, or chicken (or

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-20278636510882075692010-06-10T14:59:00.002-05:002010-06-10T15:01:35.902-05:00

It can be fun to splurge while on vacation, particularly in an area like Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, where there so many worthwhile ways to spend money (golf and drinks at a bar being a couple of my favorites). But we all have a financial limit, so knowing where to find free fun is a good idea.Hiking and biking are popular activities, and the nature trails along Alabama’s Gulf Coast are

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-14024119377544523802010-06-05T13:32:00.001-05:002010-06-05T13:34:05.480-05:00

It’s time once again to think about what to get Dad for Father’s Day. In my experience, dads are some of the hardest people to shop for. They seem to have everything, and they aren’t vocal about what they do need or want.So I’m not even going to bother asking mine this year. He’s simply going to get a weekend in Gulf Shores at Brett/Robinson’s Phoenix All Suites or Phoenix All Suites West. Two

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-9869679546405953132010-06-04T08:51:00.001-05:002010-06-04T08:54:13.237-05:00

There’s a lot to be said for a good nature hike. Walking along a trail among the rich flora and fauna, observing wildlife in its element can do wonders for a troubled mind, or may simply be a source of tranquil entertainment for an individual, couple, or family looking for a good time.The Hugh S. Branyon Back Country Trail is one of the best settings for a nature walk that I’ve ever come across.

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-79475345070762944732010-05-26T20:44:00.001-05:002010-05-26T20:46:12.586-05:00

It may not officially be summer yet, but school is coming to an end (if it’s not already over in some places), which means summertime family activities are beginning. And if your kids are like most, you’ll find the amusement parks in the Gulf Shores/Orange Beach area to be a big hit.The water park at Waterville USA opened on May 22nd, and will be open daily—not just weekends—starting May 29th.

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-57302120127060196902010-05-26T09:15:00.001-05:002010-05-26T09:16:54.786-05:00

Getting one free night at a beachside condo is a great way to save money and extend a vacation. Getting three free nights is even better. Brett/Robinson is currently offering both.From now until July 31st you can five, six, or seven nights and one of those nights will be free. Or, if you have the time and really want to immerse yourself in your Alabama Gulf Coast vacation, you can stay for ten

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-35759558692986500822010-05-24T14:05:00.000-05:002010-05-24T14:07:20.022-05:00

I’ve always found strange that one of the things I look for when booking a vacation is whether the condo or hotel has a hot tub and sauna. Particularly when I’m vacationing on the Gulf—it’s already really warm. Why is there this compelling need to soak in a hot tub?The only answer I can come up with is, it’s just nice. It’s relaxing. And probably for the same reason that I enjoy lounging on the

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-4845622063002982712010-05-19T11:52:00.001-05:002010-05-19T11:54:00.381-05:00

I love a golf course with hazards. And I love that they call them “hazards” and not just “challenges.” I’ve played with people in the past who complained about golf course hazards, and one person in particular who even wishes water hazards were called “water challenges” instead—but that just doesn’t sound like golf to me.My favorite is “scenic marshland hazards,” a description of the Rock Creek

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-12287943031814179352010-05-18T20:28:00.002-05:002010-05-18T20:30:45.261-05:00

If you’re looking for some money-saving fun for Memorial Day weekend, I have a couple good ideas. First, take advantage of Brett/Robinson’s Stretch your Memorial Weekend offer, where you can stay five nights for the price of four.Then while you’re in the Gulf Shores area, check out the 6th annual LuLu Palooza on Sunday, May 30th at LuLu's at Homeport Marina. Live music and a fun atmosphere, with

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-48687441810901198822010-05-14T13:20:00.001-05:002010-05-14T13:22:43.988-05:00

We’re all well aware of things to do during a day at the beach. (And anyone familiar with the Gulf Shores/Orange Beach area knows that there are many other activities and sites to enjoy away from the beach.)But when the sun starts to set in the evening, I know I’m not always content to just call it a night. Whether it’s dinner out, or a concert, or drinks and live music at a bar, I like to have

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-6468742437558753102010-05-13T11:07:00.000-05:002010-05-13T11:09:29.336-05:00

I always enjoy being part of something new—especially when food and entertainment is involved. So I’ll likely attend the celebration taking place at the construction site of Phoenix West II, Brett/Robinson’s newest (and biggest) Phoenix resort.Not only will there be food and live entertainment (as well as a children’s village for the youngsters), but guests will also get to explore the new

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-60553837826109767662010-05-06T11:39:00.001-05:002010-05-06T11:40:43.129-05:00

There’s something about knowing that someone else agrees with me that is so satisfying. It’s not that I need approval that what I think is “correct”—and certainly not when it comes to golf. I know whether or not I enjoy playing a particular course. I know that Kiva Dunes and Cypress Bend in Gulf Shores are both excellent golf courses based on my own experience.But it’s still nice to know that

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-52470348007246534952010-05-06T11:36:00.001-05:002010-05-06T11:38:32.573-05:00

The first day of the Hangout Beach, Music and Arts Festival is just a little more than a week away. If you haven’t already made plans to attend, there’s still time to book a room at a Brett/Robinson property.The Phoenix All Suites Hotel and the Island Winds and Island Winds West properties are right in the middle of where the action will be. Staying onsite will be the best way to enjoy this music

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-25121727297943889182010-05-05T11:01:00.001-05:002010-05-05T11:03:43.605-05:00

We’re coming up to one my favorite holidays: Memorial Day. The long weekend, so alluringly close to summer, is always a perfect occasion for celebration (as evidenced, for me, by all the couples I’ve known over the years to marry on Memorial Day weekend—if I’m not celebrating an actual wedding, I’m celebrating someone’s anniversary).It’s also a great opportunity for a vacation, and Brett/Robinson

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-41531424745202069492010-05-04T13:43:00.001-05:002010-05-04T13:45:27.796-05:00

When we think of a beach vacation, we tend to envision activities like lounging on the beach with a good book and an iPod, building sandcastles, perhaps playing a little beach volleyball, and then cooling off in the ocean waters and maybe catching a few waves. These are all excellent beach activities, particularly when your destination is the white-sand beaches of the Alabama Gulf Coast.But there

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-9954185361450200012010-04-28T12:17:00.001-05:002010-04-28T12:19:16.250-05:00

This Friday, April 30th, is going to be quite an entertaining morning at The Hangout in Gulf Shores. The Rick and Bubba Show will be broadcasting live from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. (CST). Anyone who’s listened to this show knows what a comedy trip these two are, and to add to the fun, animals from the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo will make an appearance and Lisa Christian will perform live during the show.

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-15386014590211526412010-04-28T12:13:00.002-05:002010-04-28T12:16:54.434-05:00

The countdown to my first vacation of the year has begun. The weather is warm (and even warmer at the Gulf), and life has gotten a little too hectic lately. To say I’m ready to make the trek down to Orange Beach is an understatement. And when I get there, I’m not going to relax—I’m going to get lazy.Because there is nothing more relaxing to me than letting a nice cool current carry me along while

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-15292700260780285392010-04-23T12:24:00.000-05:002010-04-23T12:26:02.287-05:00

There are so many things to do and see in the Gulf Shores/Orange Beach area; some cost money, some are free. For those who are trying to save a little money (and here I raise my hand emphatically), free is always a good option to have.Nature trails and wildlife observations are a personal preference for me, and the Alabama Gulf Coast has some amazing nature and wildlife. The Bon Secour Wildlife

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-69141724948303376322010-04-21T21:49:00.001-05:002010-04-21T21:51:05.706-05:00

Even though we consider golf to be a leisurely activity, for many of us it brings out our most competitive characteristics. No matter how “leisurely” I tell myself any given golf game is going to be, I always play with a particular goal in mind: to beat my lowest score.And there’s no vacation from this competitiveness. If it’s golf, it’s competition—even if only against myself.So I love to take

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-83363510289686344852010-04-19T14:03:00.001-05:002010-04-19T14:05:22.553-05:00

A well-rounded experience makes for a well-enjoyed vacation, and this is why I enjoy Phoenix on the Bay in Orange Beach. First, because this condo is located at Terry Cove on the Bay, it’s a prime spot for boaters. The property has its own marina and rents boat slips, which makes it so easy to access the Gulf right from the condo.Second, it’s really close (just a few miles) to the Wharf

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-61757948511166339802010-04-17T12:52:00.000-05:002010-04-17T12:53:05.491-05:00

What do people who spend a night camping out and walking around a track have in common? Quite possibly they’ve had cancer, know someone who has had cancer, or survived cancer.The American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life is an event where teams of people take turns walking or running around a track or path for up to 24 hours. The continuous walking signifies the fact that cancer never sleeps, and

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-63574984760167943822010-04-13T21:32:00.001-05:002010-04-13T21:33:57.506-05:00

I have always struggled with the process of coming up with gift ideas for my mom. Many factors play a role in this decision: the gift should be meaningful, something my mom would enjoy but that I can afford.So I am completely excited about Brett/Robinson’s latest vacation special—the We Love You Mom package. Visitors can stay at the Phoenix All Suites Hotel (arriving either May 7th or May 8th)

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-8881813078805385432010-04-11T21:09:00.001-05:002010-04-11T21:10:48.036-05:00

We’re a little more than a month out from The Hangout Beach, Music and Arts Festival. If you love music and the beach, this is the event for you. There’s still time to book accommodations with one of Brett/Robinson’s properties—the Phoenix All Suites Hotel, Island Winds East, and Island Winds West—which are right there where all the fun will take place.It’s a three-day event (May 14th, 15th, and

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-54352437886433444842010-04-09T16:41:00.005-05:002010-04-10T15:28:22.726-05:00

Easter Sunday, I marked two items off of my list of things I have not done. I attended an Easter sunrise service and visited Bellingrath Gardens and Home. This was accomplished all at once. We got up around 4 a.m. and were out of the house by 5 for the drive to Theodore, Ala., south of Mobile. An hour later, we parked under the massive live oaks in the parking area of Bellingrath. It was still

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-12630008783583096792010-04-06T12:42:00.002-05:002010-04-06T12:47:17.252-05:00

Small, interesting features always intrigue me, and those concerning golf are no exception. My favorite feature about Cotton Creek at Craft Farms, one of the many golf courses Brett/Robinson can set you up with, isn’t its Arnold Palmer design or its full-service clubhouse. It’s the mango-scented ice cold towels they offer.We all know just how brutally hot it can get out on the course. A cold

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-12774186122235294452010-04-06T12:40:00.001-05:002010-04-06T12:45:07.056-05:00

Spring is finally here: trees are in bloom, the weather is warm, department stores are fraught with summer clothing and the summer-spending fever has hit. Many of us are already revamping our warm weather wardrobes, and we have two important questions to answer: where do we wear this new wardrobe, and how do we save money after our spending spree?The Gulf Shores/Orange Beach area is an excellent

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-32573250220328291982010-04-05T20:23:00.002-05:002010-04-10T15:29:46.003-05:00

Golf always makes my beach vacation better. Not that a vacation along the Gulf Coast needs much (or any) improvement—golf is more of an enhancement. I love the game, I love trying out new courses and re-visiting old favorites. And it’s a great way to spend quality time with certain family members (or escape family altogether for a little “me” time).Brett/Robinson golf vacation packages make

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24615583.post-24490029528174347612010-04-05T20:17:00.004-05:002010-04-05T20:22:16.684-05:00

Having options is a necessary and important part of vacation planning: where visit, when to go, what to do—the possibilities can seem endless. Maybe the most important decision to make, once you’ve figured out where and when, is what type of accommodations.Hotels and condos can be fun, with their pools and other amenities. Houses, on the other hand, offer a more personal, private feel. The right

Brett Robinson Blogsnoreply@blogger.com