hmm, haven't been around for a while. some crazy hazy changes with ole blogger.com - sigh. I have been pumping some goodness into this hotel property I've been telling everyone about: Lido Beach Resort in Sarasota, Florida. I was there last week/weekend and it was awesome as always. the last time I stayed at the hotel it was pretty much just all business (they do have some cool meeting space; we were in the Bamboo Room). but this time I actually got out to see some things and area attractions. Sarasota beach area around Lido Key definitely is a great destination for families with kids. my biz partner had his family down so we took in a few sites like Mote Aquarium and Sarasota Jungle Gardens.

Mote was really nice. the setup is really geared towards kids too. shark tank was cool since we were there during feeding time. petting the stingrays was my favorite thing. I also enjoyed watching the enormous manatees. sadly the Pelican Bird Sanctuary which is next to Mote was closed down due to lack of funding. I really wanted to visit that place too. Both nights I took the hotel shuttle to St Armand's Circle to take in the sights and stores and watch the people coming and going. the weather was gorgeous so the nights were very nice breezy next to the ocean. I'm hoping to make it back soon while the summer rates are low. they are running a summer special offer has rooms for ridiculously low rates compared to normal. if you want a great hotel in Sarasota, check out their summer hotel deal on their website. this hotel really is a hidden gem since i had never heard about it until i actually stayed there last year. now it's the only place i want to stay in Sarasota.