Living in SWFL has us spoiled, After all, we live where most of America vacations. So inevitably when its time for us to enjoy a little r&r, we jump in the car or book that flight and spend most of our vacation traveling, to somewhere, anywhere but here. I was bit by the travel bug at a young age, far away adventures are craved and wonderful but when was the last time you enjoyed a little staycation. We have so many wonderful hotels and resorts right here that can make you feel like you're far away minis the travel time. Think about it, more pool, less driving. Its a win,win.
When traveling, budget is always a top priority, everyone wants the most bang for their buck! Tucked away off Summerlin Rd in Fort Myers is "The Hampton Inn Fort Myers Beach/Sanibel Gateway lots of bang here people! When I think of Hampton Inn, I think quality, I think clean but i think average. You know you're going to get an affordable price and a quality stay but you're not exactly expecting to be wowed. Well at this Hampton Inn my friends prepare yourself, it is so, so far from typical.
I like to consider myself a pretty spot on judge of character and The Hampton Inn Fort Myers Beach/Sanibel Gateway is over flowing with positive vibes and genuine hospitality. We were greeted by the sweetest front desk staff that I've honestly ever encountered, you could tell that they not only enjoyed their jobs and work environment but truly cared about you as a guest and wanted to do anything they could to make your time with them memorable ,we laughed a lot check-in was fun. The lobby was spotless and beautiful with above average décor, an open office area and a large dining room full of oversized tables perfect for accommodating large families, work groups or for meeting new friends! The pool area is perfect, Clean, warm and stocked with pool towels and in the middle of the day the smell of fresh baked cookies lure you to the breakfast area for a midday snack.
Location, Location, Location! The Hampton Inn Fort Myers Beach/ Sanibel Gate Way puts you just a few miles of fun, sun, shopping and so much more. Fort Myers beach is known for its year long spring break attitude, But during the day its a perfect place for the family endless dining options like Doc Ford's where the food and view is amazing, tacky t- shirt shops, pier and beach. If anything its a fun little cruise with the windows down or a nice walk. Over sized Adirondack chairs and sidewalks lined with wooden cutout props are perfect for photo opps. You'll be snapping pictures like a true tourist in no time. It also wouldn't be Ft. Myers beach with out grade A people watching opportunities and let me tell you, it didn't disappoint.
If you head towards Sanibel you run into an outlet mall that honestly surpassed my expectations, Nike, Polo ,Gymboree and more, something for everyone. A whimsical restaurant and bar right before the Sanibel bridge called Bimini Bait shack is a must see, where the seats are swings and the bar top is an aquarium, live music and yummy food. Sanibel itself is beautiful ,romantic and quaint. perfect for shelling, sunbathing ,dining, fishing and much more. If you don't want to drive even a few extra miles you have Zoomers is just a stone throw from the Hotel. Go-carts, Bumper boats, Kid sized thrill rides and an indoor game room will keep your littles busy for hours. They just recently added a huge outdoor bar to the mix which is another win we can add to the list.
Our suite was sweet!! Pool view, full kitchen which could really help your budget out on a long weekend away with hungry monsters in tow. Their was a sitting room with TV complete with a pull out couch big enough for board games or the typical, living room Olympics that occurs daily at our house. In the master, a king sized bed with heavy duvet and high thread count sheets, another TV to drowned out the cartoons and a Door to escape the living room Olympics haha! no, but seriously that bed was amazing, lots of pillows, I got the best nights sleep! The bathroom and vanity were very clean, I'm a clean freak and felt right at home. They also provide far from your run of the mill toiletry items either, Neutrogena was a nice surprise. All over the property you will find special, unique, boutique touches, little signs with hand written positive notes and quotes, Hot chocolate, tea or coffee freshly brewed round the clock and in the morning a far from typical breakfast fresh and tasty with lots of different options.
So, Next time you're itching to get away, stay! You'll save money, you'll save the miles and you will spend much more time making memories and exploring new things your never knew and places you might have never been right here at home with the ones you love most. Click Here to learn more and book your stay. Till next time. Peace, Love & Macaroni!
