| With the economy remaining on the skids, | | | | activity, with thousands of sun worshippers |
| vacationers all across the country are still opting | | | | flocking to its perfect white sand expanse to |
| to stay in the country for their seaside holidays. | | | | enjoy the Florida sunshine and the Emerald |
| And why not? Recession or no recession, it's hard | | | | Coast's impossibly azure waters. |
| to beat the pristine white sandy beaches of | | | | There are also plenty of opportunities to scuba |
| Florida's Emerald Coast; and Panama City is one | | | | dive, snorkel, and deep-sea fish in the Panama |
| of the area's top destinations. Here's a snapshot | | | | City area for those who like a little more activity. |
| look at this vacation paradise along with ideas for | | | | For land-lubbers, there are many top-notch golf |
| what to do during a visit. | | | | courses within easy driving distance and wonderful |
| Located between Tallahassee and Pensacola, | | | | shopping in the St Andrews district and along |
| Panama City is one of the crown jewels of the | | | | Harrison Avenue. |
| Florida panhandle. It is almost entirely surrounded | | | | An active and diverse nightlife is also a huge draw |
| by water, making it a sea lover's delight. With a | | | | for the city, and there's nothing quite like drinking |
| year-round population of only about 50,000 it has | | | | in the balmy seaside breezes after the sun goes |
| a small-town, homey feel that is prized by visitors. | | | | down. This is a favorite summertime destination |
| Panama City Beach is approximately 20 miles long | | | | for thousands of visitors who love the sea and |
| and is lined with high-rise luxury hotels and | | | | love to relax: there's nothing quite like it. |
| condominiums. It is the city's undisputed center of | | | | |