(Many thanks to Visit Gulf County for hosting my visit!)

Gulf County, at the heart of the panhandle, beckons with spectacular scenery and an Old Florida vibe. It’s a quieter side of the Sunshine State, but that’s great news for travelers who appreciate powdery beaches, walkable downtowns with charming shops, gracious hospitality and a slower pace of life. Some people call it the “Forgotten Coast,” but folks here prefer “Serene Coast.” Hurricane Michael, a Category 5 tempest, devastated the area in 2018, but ambitious revitalization and new beach home communities have restored all welcome mats. Look for me on the beach!

Read more in my story, “Florida’s ‘Forgotten Coast’ is Actually Quite Memorable,” as published in Loop North Chicago.