Dining, Shopping, & More | A Guide to Downtown Bradenton

Planning a vacation with Florida Vacation Connection is the perfect way to take a break from everyday life. Whether exploring some of the must-try things to do on Longboat Key or enjoying a relaxing escape to Lido Key, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy your ideal vacation. Our well-appointed vacation rentals are also close […]
Beating the Cold on Longboat and Lido Key: Cozy Activities for Every Traveler Staying in a Vacation Rental

While winter in Florida isn’t typically cold, even a slight dip in temperature is the perfect reason to explore all the warm, inviting experiences that Longboat Key and Lido Key offer. For those vacationing in one of the area’s many beautiful vacation rentals, you’ll have the luxury of a cozy home base with plenty of […]
Discover the Magic of Lido Key with Florida Vacation Connection

Embrace the ultimate sun-soaked getaway on the stunning shores of Lido Key. This charming island, nestled next to Longboat Key, may be smaller in size but is brimming with activities and attractions. From savoring exquisite meals in St. Armands Circle to enjoying breathtaking sunsets at beachside tiki bars, Lido Key offers something for everyone. Bask […]
Your Guide to Shopping in St. Armands Circle

It’s time to shop ‘til you drop! Retail therapy is one of our favorite vacation activities. Whether you’re looking for the perfect outfit, a souvenir, or a gift for a loved one, you’ll find it in St. Armands Circle. John Ringling’s shopping circle is a bustling, beautiful promenade just steps from the beach, and it […]
A Guide to Sarasota’s Health & Wellness Community

Followed your bliss all the way to the Sarasota area? Now that you’re here, keep the positive vibes coming by immersing yourself in its culture of happy, healthy living. Relaxing on the soft sand beaches is the best way to practice a little self care, but this area offers lots of ways to achieve a […]
Spotlight On Our Team: Sue

Dinner restaurant: Columbia Restaurant. The best Cuban food in town. Breakfast spot: Sage Biscuit Cafe in Bradenton. On-the-waterfront dining: Anna Maria’s Waterfront Restaurant and Craft Bar. Ask about their daily specials; they’re sometimes unique but always delicious. Seafood restaurant: Anna Maria Oyster Bar. Be sure to order their award-winning Lobster Bisque. Deli: Harry’s Deli. My favorite […]
Must Do: Downtown Sarasota

While there’s plenty to see and do along the coast, turn your attention to the city of Sarasota (it’s that gorgeous, glittering skyline that greets you upon your descent from the Ringling Bridge, FYI). Head for Downtown, where you’ll quickly discover some of the area’s best restaurants, shopping and cultural institutions. The Downtown vibe is […]
Spotlight On Our Team: Dallas

Dinner restaurant: So many great places in Sarasota. My home for 31 years has been Anna Maria, so if you want to think outside the box, try The Feast. It’s in a small shopping center on Anna Maria, and it’s AH-Mazing!! Make a reservation. Breakfast spot: Anna Maria Oyster Bar on the Bridge Street Pier. Great […]
Spotlight On Our Team: Michele Knuese

Meet our fearless leader, Michele Knuese. Having been in the local vacation rental business for over 30 years, Wisconsin-born Knuese was perfectly poised to take the helm of Florida Vacation Connection in 1994. As owner and manager, Michele calls upon her decades of experience both in the industry and as a resident of Sarasota, leading […]
Where To Find A LBD Around LBK

Longboat Key and its surrounding islands are a shopper’s paradise, and not just because the shopping is set in one. It’s the fact that so many of our retail options offer everything you need to put together an ensemble fit for island living, from the floppy hat down to the espadrilles. Our top picks for […]