FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                           

Contacts:  Nancy Hamilton, or Lee Rose
                        (239)338-3500

THE BEACHES OF FORT MYERS & SANIBEL PREMIERES UPDATED ACCLAIMED VISITOR’S GUIDE

            LEE COUNTY, FL (January 9, 2004) – The Lee County Visitor and Convention Bureau (VCB) in southwest Florida has updated and improved its innovative destination visitor’s guide.  The principal feature that distinguishes the publication from those of other destinations is the editorial – full-length articles revealing the objective opinions and personal, first-hand experiences of professional travel and photo journalists, who have visited the area. 

            In addition to a new cover and fresh photography, the updated visitor’s guide has expanded from 94 to 110 pages with more local secrets, a shopping article, and itinerary suggestions.  Another change, which mirrors the destination’s new positioning campaign, separates Pine Island from Boca Grande and the Outer Islands.  Now readers can find accommodations specific to the area they want to visit.

            Feature articles include “Discover The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel,” “Beautiful Beaches,” “Ecologic-Lee - Nature Adventures,” “Island Hopping – Tropical Getaways,” “Intimate Interludes – Romantic Retreats,” “Family Fun,” “Fish Tales,” “Historic Handbook – Getaway to Yesterday,” and “The Golf Coast.”  Interspersed throughout the text are “local secrets:” from coconut postcards and the world’s largest Key lime pie, to ideal sunset-viewing spots, golfing and fishing tips, and where to see the largest banyan tree in the U.S.

The guide was created in the image of an upscale travel magazine, and contains the practical information necessary for consumers planning to travel to the destination.   Clear and current listings for all types of accommodations can be found, including Superior Small Lodging properties, bed and breakfasts, resorts, villas, condos, and  homes.  This easy-to-read section includes a chart listing available amenities at

each property.  Accommodations are divided into Lee County’s various destinations: Sanibel & Captiva islands, Fort Myers Beach, Fort Myers, Bonita Springs and Estero,  Cape Coral, Pine Island, Boca Grande & Outer islands, North Fort Myers, and Lehigh Acres.

            The guide also provides detailed listings and descriptions of the area’s multitude of eco- and heritage-based attractions/activities that draw visitors from around the world.  Categories include: arts and culture, beaches and parks, entertainment, historic sites, museums and science centers, nature, sports, guided tours, water recreation, and fishing.  To further assist visitors with itinerary planning, estimated times for each attraction/activity are denoted.

            The Visitor Services section of the guide contains helpful information such as carriers serving Southwest Florida International Airport; ground transportation, including

rental cars; currency exchange locations; area chambers of commerce; assistance for physically impaired visitors; and weather data.

            The comprehensive publication is available to consumers requesting information on a toll-free telephone number (888)231-6933 and online at www.FortMyersSanibel.com .