It's not your wedding day (although it may be a sort of second honeymoon), but the sound of something old and something new appeals to you. That's why you've decided to head to St. Augustine for your next vacation. The oldest city in the nation is brimming with history and weathered charm, but the sights and sounds will be all new to your eyes. Also, in terms of lodging, you're thinking about doing things differently this time around.



That's right, you've always wanted to try staying in a vacation rental. The beautiful beaches of Florida's northeast coast, with their ample opportunities for swimming, boating, fishing, and shelling, would make a great starting place for your rental property adventures. Dozens of condos and oceanfront houses line the beach, and if you'd like to stay closer to the historic town you'll have options there as well.

Perhaps you and the family have been planning a trip that will be relaxing yet educational. You've seen the imposing fortresses that line St. Augustine's perimeter and heard about the museums available to explain the role that this region played in the battles for land back in the days of New World Exploration. The kids have learned about Columbus and Ponce de Leon in school, and now is your chance to bring their lessons to life.

You all have also been coveting some beach time, and a vacation rental located within this general area will have both the city and the ocean at your fingertips. Spend the day soaking up some rays or rent the gear you'll need to catch a whopper. Nearby shops and restaurants will keep you fed and souvenir-happy, but don't forget that if you need to slip into solitude, go no further than your own back porch. A glass of lemonade and a good novel will chase away any anxieties that have followed you here.

The funky, colorful, Caribbean-style d'cor of your vacation villa is a nice touch, as it certainly helps you assume the role of a beach bum in no time at all. The beds are comfy and the closets are big enough to allow you to actually unpack your bags (not that any one cares about wrinkled clothes on the beach). You especially like the kitchen, as it makes fixing a few snacks for the ever-hungry family a simple, and pretty inexpensive, task.

When the mood strikes, head into the ancient town for unique shopping, dining, and live music experiences. Take a seat at a cool caf? and watch the people go by, imagining that you've actually crossed the Atlantic to a quaint European town. Only instead of returning to a tiny hotel room that may or may not have the amenities you need, make your way back to the spacious vacation rental that you have chosen for yourself. Your family will thank you when they discover that they all have a place to stretch out at night with not a sleeping bag in sight.

For the down time that tends to arise between excursions, the time that's usually spent arguing over the remote control, your vacation rental will offer several pleasing alternatives. Many properties are stocked with board games, cards, DVD players, stereos, and hot tubs. Everyone will have something to do, and boredom and bickering will become things of the past.

Ambitious travelers will want to keep in mind that many Florida attractions aren't too far away, such as Disney World and Universal Studios. Devote a day to one of these crowd-magnets, but then instead of shacking up at a mirror-image hotel, congratulate yourself for escaping the usual routine as you drive the reasonable distance back to your quiet beach house that seems far, far, away.

If all this sounds like the vacation you've been hoping to take advantage of, whether with your family or just that special someone, then be sure to take a look at all the vacation rental offerings that are available. St. Augustine deserves a look, and the view from a comfortable place will only make it more attractive. Go online to reserve a , and get ready for an incredible time.