Florida's sweet deals

Southern Living, Nov 2000 by Vanhoooser, Cassandra M

The Naples Beach Hotel & Goff Club

My choice for a spacious room, this familyowned spot features a colorful decor. Shoulder: $139-$250. High: $215-$360. Low: $165-$205. 851 Gulf Shore Blvd. North, Naples, FL 34102; (941) 261-2222, 1-800237-7600, or www naplesbeachhotel.com.

The Registry Resort, Naples

This resort is surrounded by a nature preserve and has a new Rees Jones golf course, the Naples Grande. Shoulder: $199-$395. High: $275-$695. Low: $109-$290. 475 Seagate Drive, Naples, FL 34103; 1-800247-9810 or www registryhotels.com.

The Ritz-Carlton, Naples

Most luxurious hotel on the Gulf. Offers spa services, 3 miles of beach, and golf privileges. Shoulder: $269-$425. High: $449$699. Low: $219-$379. 280 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples, FL 34108; (941) 5983300 or www ritzcarlton. com.

South Seas Resort, Captiva Island

One of the country's top tennis resorts, located at the tip of Captiva Island. Shoulder: $145-$550. High: $190-$1,000. Low: $115$495. PO. Box 194, Captiva Island, FL 33924; (941) 472-5111, 1-800-965-7772, or www south-seas-resort.com.

Sundial Beach Resort, Sanibel Island

Full-service resort with access to more than a mile of beach. Shoulder: $219-$405. High: $325-$669. Low: $159-$365. 1451 Middle Gulf Drive, Sanibel Island, FL 33957, (941) 472-4151, 1-800-965-7772, or www.sundial resort.com.

GOOD DEAL, LUCILLE!

Bargains abound, but it does take a little time and effort to find them. We asked Jim Renner, director of the Southern Living Travel Service, to give us some hints on how to find the best deals. Here's his advice.

* Check with the hotel. They often adjust their rates when occupancy is low. Call your favorite hotel directly or check their Web site to see if they are offering any specials.

* Surf the Internet.

Many Web sites specialize in identifying budget travel options. But be cautious, Jim advises. If an offer looks too good to be true, it probably is.

* Look for local promotions. Numerous touristy areas organize promotions, particularly in the off-season. Call the area convention and visitors bureau to get started.

* Call your travel agent. If you don't want to do the work yourself, find a reputable travel agent. They're often your best bet for tracking down those elusive deals, Jim says. For more information on the Southern Living Travel Service, see page 52.