Florida based AAA is predicting that 115 million Americans will be traveling over the Christmas and New Year's holiday. That is a 2.5 million increase over the same time last year. 6.5 million of those hitting the roads and skies are Floridians. Airports are expected to be the busiest they’ve ever been over the Christmas and New Year’s travel period with 7.5 million air travelers. To get ready for the influx in Southwest Florida remote parking at Fort Myer's RSW opens today for holiday travel.
How remote parking at RSW works
First, you must reserve online and prepay. You can click here for the link. Next, check your travel dates. The lot opens Wednesday, December 20th. You can enter the lot anytime from then through the 24th. After your travel is complete, you can exit any time from Christmas Day through Wednesday, January 3rd. Finally, and this is the best part. Parking is a flat rate of $40 regardless of how long you stay.
Shuttles are available to take you from the remote lot to the terminal. They make the rounds beginning at 3am and run through 7 pm. On your return, they run until the last flight of the night arrives so you wont get stuck in the terminal. Airport officials suggest you add thirty minutes on to your arrival time to allow for catching the shuttle and being transported.
Tips for remote parking at RSW
- Reserve a parking spot ahead of time.
- Remove valuables from your vehicle.
- Lock doors and roll up windows.
- Take a photo of your spot to remember where you parked.
- Keep your ticket or receipt handy to show when exiting.
In addition, we are approaching some of the busiest travel days of the year. If you are still flexible, try to avoid travel on these days. Safe travels.
Sanibel Makes The Cut For Coziest Hygge Town In Florida
Baby it's cold outside. We've had a nice burst of cool air this week with more to come throughout the season. It's a time to cozy up under a blanket or by a fire. It's not just about fuzzy blankets. There are towns around the state, the country and the world that have an unexplained cozy feel to them. It might not surprise you that quant little Sanibel makes the cut for coziest hygge town in Florida.
What the heck is "hygge"
It is a Danish concept pronounced hoo-guh. The term that encompasses feelings of comfort, contentment, and well-being. Simply, that sense of being and feeling cozy. MyDatingAdviser used hygge as a guide to assess 170 US towns. They used three key factors. First, the weather and things such as temperature and snowfall. Second, culinary delights which includes charming cafes and bakeries. Finally, the researchers looked at overall things to do.
“We've traveled across the state to unveil some of the warmest hygge towns in Florida, perfect for a winter getaway," said Amy Harris, Editor-in-Chief at MyDatingAdviser.com. I encourage everyone to embrace the essence of hygge. Enjoy a leisurely stroll by the beach, indulge in local cuisine, immerse yourself in local culture, and create cherished memories with loved ones.”
Coziest Florida town
No Florida cities or towns made the top 20 hygge spots in the nation. However, if you are looking for a cozy getaway outside of the Sunshine State, here are the top five in the nation according to this report:
You can find that complete list here. In the meantime, Sanibel ranks in the coziest Florida town list. There are seven others that made the cut if you want to take a hygge cozy road trip. Here they are:
Seaside
I just love this picturesque coastal town in the Panhandle. The architecture and the stunning views make this an inviting winter escape, even though it gets a lot colder here than Southwest Florida.
Winter Temperature: 56°F, Winter Season: 3 months
St. Augustine
It's also a little colder but it's know for warm cafes in old town, historic landmarks and lots of charm. Tour the Castillo de San Marcos, stroll St. George Street, and experience the Nights of Lights festival.
Winter Temperature: 59.5°F, Winter Season: 3 months
Crystal River
Crystal River is just north of Tampa and could be considered a Gulf Coast hidden gem. The downtown is charming and the river is famous for manatee tours.
Winter Temperature: 59°F, Winter Season: 2.8 months
Apalachicola
Apalachicola has a lovely historic district and lots of festivals. Explore the Apalachicola Maritime Museum and dine along the scenic Apalachicola River.
Winter Temperature: 56°F, Winter Season: 3 months
Alys Beach
Besides Seaside, this is one of my favorite Panhandle escapes. It's known for pristine white sands and elegant white architecture. There is an Amphitheatre, galleries and a cool digital art festival which keeps the art community vibrant.
Winter Temperature: 52.5°F, Winter Season: 3 months
Marathon
Marathon is even warmer than Southwest Florida at times, if want cozy without cold. The beaches are great and so are the water sports. And don't even bet me started on the brilliant sunsets.
Winter Temperature: 73°F, Winter Season: 2.9 months
Sanibel Island
Sanibel might still be in full Hurricane Ian recovery mode. However researches say with things like the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge shelling and local restaurants, it has all kinds of hygee.
Winter Temperature: 67°F, Winter Season: 2.8 months
Delray Beach
Delray Beach is a great place with superb dining and a vibrant arts scene. Check out the Pineapple Grove Arts District, the Delray Beach Farmers' Market, and the beautiful beachfront.
Winter Temperature: 69°F, Winter Season: 3 months
