The other Florida: There's a host of reasons to recommend this lesser-known corner of the state. (Florida Northwest Florida).

Travel Agent, March, 2002 by Medina, Kerry

Overshadowed by Georgia and Alabama, Northwest Florida is often overlooked as a vacation destination. Visitors to Florida are often drawn to the southern or central parts of the state, but the northwest corner offers just as much to do, fewer crowds and pure natural beauty.

"When we think Florida, we think Miami and Tampa," says Bob Olson, manager of Golden Valley Travel in Reedley, Calif. "The Northwest is not at all like that." One distinguishing factor is the beaches, known for their sand and surf. "They're really pristine and not quite as well known as those of the rest of the state," says Leon Corbett, spokesman for Visit Florida. "The sand is sugar-white."

But the beaches aren't the only draws in Northwest Florida. Notes Olson: "It's a...