Sand like flour in Sarasota

Embarking on our next American staycation trip, because, let's face it, nothing screams vacation like exploring your own backyard, we set our sights on Sarasota this time. Just a quick 2-hour drive from Orlando, because who needs to take a plane when you can experience Floridian wonders on four wheels?

Sarasota, the town that's not trying to compete with Central Florida but has its own thing going on—white beaches, because, of course, we need those pristine, Caribbean-looking sands to rival any tropical getaway.

We went there in early December for just two nights, wanting a break from the suburban vibe in Orlando. It's a great spot for a quick trip, especially if you combine it with nearby places like Naples, Saint Petersburg, and Tampa.

Established in 1921, Sarasota County has a rich history dating back to 1539 when Spanish conquistador Hernando de Soto first explored South Tampa. The city has undergone various name variations over the centuries, including Zara Sota, ZaraSota, Sarazota, and finally settling on Sarasota. The influence of notable figures, particularly the Ringling family, is evident throughout the town, with monuments, streets, and dedicated areas commemorating their impact.

Before getting into town, we got hugnry and decided to follow reviews to chose our lunch destination. The TripAdvisor ratings led us astray for lunch. We ended up in the 16th-ranked restaurant out of more than 600, which, surprise, turned out to be a retirement party for our taste buds. Pre-cooked fish that probably had a more exciting life in a supermarket box. Lesson learned: trust your instincts, not online rankings.

We started our exploration in downtown, which exuded a Miami-like atmosphere with its towering buildings. It seemed bustling with activity during both day and night, especially near the bayfront where we parked our car among elegant yachts. Taking a leisurely stroll, we encountered the iconic 26-foot-tall "Unconditional Surrender" sculpture, commemorating the famous LIFE magazine photo capturing the moment a U.S. sailor kissed a nurse in Times Square on the day World War II ended.

After capturing some memories and pictures, we ventured further into downtown to find a spot for drinks, hoping to cleanse our palates after a disappointing lunch. Fortunately, luck was on our side as we discovered Bar Hana, a Hawaiian-inspired bar with the perfect ambiance and signature cocktails. The "Miami Vice" and "Flamingo" drinks were delightful, making it the highlight of our afternoon.

As 4 PM approached, it was time to check into our hotel. Unfortunately, our choice proved less fortunate, as the boutique hotel near the airport lacked the expected charm and appeared unfinished. It seemed to embrace an industrial aesthetic, but the poorly designed aspects left much to be desired. I would recommend staying closer to downtown or the older side across the bridge for a more satisfying experience.

On our second and final day in Sarasota, we opted for sun and wind at the beach. Before reaching the shore, we explored St. Armands Circle, a charming area with numerous restaurants and bars. A sweet waffle and coffee gave us the energy needed to compensate for the hotel's subpar morning brew.

Despite being an Italian who firmly believes in Italy's superior beaches, I must admit Sarasota's beach was impressive. The clear water and long, white stretch were captivating, even with the constant breeze.

C arranged a kayaking adventure in the mangroves, the highlight of our staycation. Due to the off-season and windy weather, we enjoyed a private excursion with a knowledgeable instructor, making it a highly recommended activity.

We spent the rest of the day wandering downtown, refreshed before returning to Bar Hana for another round of drinks. Dinner followed at the cutest Japanese spot, a departure from the prevalent Italian-American restaurants in Sarasota.

As our short trip to Sarasota concluded, we left with plans to return during warmer weather, eager to fully appreciate the beach and sea without the wind. It's undeniably a must-visit destination in the area.