Why Travel To Gulf Shores Alabama And Orange Beach Alabama?

By Author: Spencer Llewellyn
Total Articles: 3698
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Once thought of as a dull coastal village, the Alabama Gulf Coast has transformed into a thriving destination that offers many rooms, restaurant and attraction options. Yet, this vicinity has retained is charming Southern feel that successfully competes with adjoining destinations. In 2007, Baldwin County claimed the main portion of the market stake (24.7%) when compared to the five neighboring Panhandle counties of Escambia (11.5%), Santa Rosa (2.2%), Okaloosa (18.9%), Walton (23.6%) and Bay (19.1%). Also in 2007, the AL Gulf Coast achieved another record breaking figure as the area exceeded its preceding taxablerooms revenue record by $39 million.

However, these yearly records are part of a larger increase trend. Since 2000, taxablerooms (Hotel, Motel and Condo) revenue has steadily developed from $157 million to $244 million in 2008. Similar to the $87 million rooms increase, retail revenue also grew a total of $376 million in the same eight year time span. With the addition of 3,805 lodging units in the last eight years, the area has also added more retail, restaurant and attraction space that has contributed to this ...
... trend.

Nine signature golf courses and the nation's largest artificial reef program lead to man-cations packed with exciting golf games and great fish tales. Meanwhile, the ladies on their girlfriend getaways find great deals with several shopping adventures and go to the area's choice of spas for some much-needed pampering. Couples and seasonal winter guests converge on Pleasure Island for the plentiful activities, events and festivities scheduled throughout the year.

Several new properties have recently opened in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach and more are likely soon, adding a total new dimension to our accommodations landscape. From one end of the island to the other, older properties and bargain hotels are giving way to sophisticated luxury facilities. Design and comfort are the order of the day at these hotel and condominium resorts. In addition to posh designer interiors, most offer fitness centers, beach service, several pools and fun water features for the kids. Some are like their own little towns, presenting shopping, restaurants and entertainment on premises, so you don't have to get in your car the whole time you're on vacation.

And while it used to be that the on the beach was the only place to find a room, these days there are enormous options nestled quietly on the back bays and along the Intracoastal channel. Formerly referred to by locals as the ditch, The channel is suddenly becoming a ribbon of luxury residential and rental developments, marinas, and waterside dining to rival the beachfront.

Similar to the upscaling of the area's rooms, the dining options have also extended to embrace a wide reach of palettes. In addition to the traditional beachside dive, visitors to the Alabama Gulf Coast can sample a smorgasbord of options, such as Mediterranean, Italian, Cajun or French. A showcase of the area's culinary experts reveals backgrounds and training ranging from humble beginnings to formally trained chefs. Regardless, hungry customers have many options. Some restaurants will even bake your catch.

Also, the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach vicinity is fortunate to serve Royal Red shrimp. Found about 1,000 feet below the gulf waters, this cold-water shrimp is delicacy. With a deep red color and sweet, delicate texture, royal reds can be found in a variety of dishes at the coastal restaurants.

Established as a family-orientated vacation destination, the Gulf Shores and Orange Beachvicinity has become a popular destination year round. Outside of the peak summer season, value-packed accommodation rates couple with comfortable temperatures and plentiful events that make this area a must-see.