Last night the decision was made to change the name of the new international airport located near Panama City Beach, FL. Apparently the previous name North West Florida Panama City International Airport did not set very well with the Mayor of Panama City who made the following comments in a letter to the board.

It was with regret that I learned the name that was selected for the newest airport in  Florida.  I sincerely hope that you will reconsider and choose a name that is truly regional in nature and scope.

This airport is a milestone for all of this area in many ways: the new industry that will grow, the increase in the tourism business, the first time this area including the surrounding counties has worked together to make the airport and the future to happen, and the overall increase in the quality of life for our residents.

I think we can safely say that there are so many other names including those listed in the top five selections under consideration that more represent the nature of what is happening here.  What a wonderful opportunity we have and it is a shame not to take advantage of it. Northwest Florida has already been taken by another airport and Panama City denotes such a narrow scope (one city of many).

Once again I would request that you reconsider, think regional, and do what is best for Bay County and our regional partners.

Shortly thereafter, the Bay County Tourist Development Council assembled a resolution and submitted formerly to the Airport Authority Board their suggestion for a new name:

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, unanimously, by the Bay County Tourist Development Council and Board of Directors of the Panama City Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau, Inc. that the Airport Authority is respectfully requested to reconsider the name of the new airport, and again consider naming the airport the “Northwest Florida International Airport.”

Well after deliberation a new name was finally selected that would attempt to meet the needs of all involved parties. The new name that was decided upon yesterday is Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport.

Southwest Airlines coming to Panama City!

After much speculation over the last few months, it is confirmed that Southwest Airlines will indeed be offering flights into the new Northwest Florida Panama City International Airport.

There were many who doubted the rumor based on the financial numbers involved. It  appeared that the proposition of opening a new hub in this market at this point in time might not be a smart move for the large airline.

It appears that St. Joe is helping Southwest Airlines with a $26 Million commitment over 2 years. Agreeing to pay the airline up to $14 Million in the first year and up to $12 million in the second year to help mitigate the risk associated with the new venture. If Southwest should prove profitable in the first 2 years they would in turn share part of the profits with St. Joe.

There are more details to the agreement than I have time for now but I will be sharing more details in the future.

The bottom line is St. Joe and Southwest Airlines are now equally yoked with a powerful incentive to make this venture a success. I am sure that the marketing departments for both companies will be working overtime to drive visitors to Panama City Beach and the rest of the Emerald Coast.

This should improve occupancy rates in panama city vacation rentals and help to spur the local economy with additional tourist dollars flowing into the market. iTrip will continue to keep travelers informed of upcoming news and evens as they relate to Panama City Condos.

Panama City Beach Resorts

When planning your next Panama City Beach vacation, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is the type of accommodations you pick. There are plenty of beach resorts, hotels, and condos to go around in this Panhandle city, so there’ll be no shortage of choices. If you’re looking specifically for an oceanfront resort, then you’re in luck. A beach resort vacation is definitely within reach. With Panama’s sprawling coastline, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for. To help narrow down your choices, here is a list of Panama City Beach’s top 5 resorts:

Edgewater Resort

The first Panama City Beach resort is Edgewater Resort, a beachfront property located on the sands of the beautiful Gulf coast. The 11,500-square-foot Lagoon pool, which overlooks the Gulf of Mexico, can put anyone in the beach vacation mindset. There is always some kind of beach or seasonal pool event happening, including ice cream socials, poolside bingo, hula hoop and limbo contents, or tie-dying T-shirts.

The outdoor types in your bunch can play 36-holes of golf on Edgewater’s expert golf course, or they can hit a few balls on one of the 6 all-season tennis courts. There is also a Kidz Klub that features different group activities to keep the children entertained. Adults can join exercise classes or sculpt their physique in the weight room. On the other hand, those who love to pamper themselves can get a relaxing hot stone massage or a customized Swedish massage with aromatherapy.

Calypso Resort

Another of Panama City’s top 5 beach resorts is Calypso Resort and Towers. This sky-scraping resort offers everything a traveler could want in a Panama City Beach vacation. A Calypso condo will feel like a home away from home. Every one of its 396 rooms offers a full kitchen, washer/dryer, DVD/VCR, additional TV’s in each bedroom, free unlimited DVD rentals, free high speed internet, and a private balcony overlooking a beautiful Gulf front view. All guests also have access to 2 swimming pools and a private beach on the Emerald Coast.

Sunbird Resort

The Sunbird Resort is ideally located on the Gulf and just minutes from all the Panama City action. These 1 bedroom condos offer a great get away for families or sweethearts. The Sunbird has 3 luxurious swimming pools to choose from, an arcade, shuffle board, parasailing, tennis, volleyball, waverunners, and even a dolphin encounter tour. One thing’s for sure: you definitely won’t run out of fun things to do while staying at Panama City’s Sunbird beach resort.

Sterling Resort

At the Sterling, you can relax in your room, enjoying the fireplace, complimentary newspaper, and the always-popular jetted bathtub, or you can venture out and experience any of the other luxurious amenities. Aside from the 17 floors of spacious condo rooms, this seaside resort offers a host of spa services, a health club, fitness center, outdoor swimming pool, a library, a patio with BBQ grill, and a private beach.

If you really would like to venture out, try adding windsurfing, rafting, snorkeling, surfing, canoeing, sailing, scuba diving, water skiing, motor boating, volleyball playing, cycling, parasailing, or fishing to your beach vacation. All of these activities are available on site at the Sterling Resort.

Summit Resort

Last, but definitely not least, is Panama City’s Summit beach resort. If you’re looking for the ultimate in luxury resort vacationing, look no further. The Summit is a condo resort with everything you’d expect from a resort package and more. This ocean resort has 2 outdoor pools, 1 indoor whirlpool, 2 outdoor hot tubs, a fitness center with saunas, an on-site ice cream shop, a poolside tiki bar, parasailing, Waverunners, and—of course—a boardwalk leading right to the Gulf sands. The Summit also hosts a variety of beach activities and community events year round, so there’s always something for everyone.

Panama City Beach is both rich in beauty and overflowing with fun things to do. Before you book your condo or resort, make sure to consult the experts: iTrip. iTrip can help you find the perfect rental accommodations to suit your vacationing needs. So, give yourself a break and do something that will guarantee your family the vacation getaway of their dreams!

It has been said that Panama City Beach has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The 27 miles of powdery white sand beaches stretch along the pale blue coast of the Gulf of Mexico and St. Andrews Bay. Aside from the countless other fun-filled activities to do on shore—shopping, eating, dancing, golfing—Panama City’s beaches remain the most popular attraction in town. The coast offers peaceful stretches of secluded beach for those wishing to enjoy a bit of paradise while on vacation, while also providing adventure-seekers and social butterflies a place to participate in thrilling feats and meet new people. Panama City Beach gives visitors their own little piece of tropical paradise, whatever that means to them.

Fun Facts about Panama City Beach

From personal experience and through pictures, Panama City Beach has acquired many nicknames, one of them being “The Beach Lover’s Beach.” This statement holds true for many—over six million visitors a year can’t be wrong! With an annual average of 320 days of sunshine, Panama City Beach is a dream come true for many snowbirds looking for some fun in the sun. The average temperature falls around the mid-70’s, making it perfect beach weather year-round.

If you plan to take advantage of the sand and surf, you might as well make the most of it. Water sports, like scuba diving, are very popular. Many vacationers explore the many historical ship wrecks along the coast. Panama City Beach is known as the Wreck Capitol of the South. If you plan to go on any glass bottom boat rides, be sure to take your camera. Panama City Beach is also known for its huge bottlenose dolphin populations—one of the largest in the world!

The Boardwalk

Panama City Beach’s most popular hot spot for events and festivities is definitely Russell-Fields Pier, also referred to as simply the City Pier. Located across the street from the sprawling new shopping and dining plaza, Pier Park, the Pier is the longest pier found on the coast, stretching 1,600 feet into the Gulf. Many a fisherman has spent days hanging out at this pier, waiting for a bite, and many a family has made happy memories at festivals held here. This boardwalk is where Panama City Beach tourists and natives congregate and enjoy breathtaking Gulf views.

Thunder Beach

Of the many things Panama City Beach is known for, the mention of Thunder Beach gives way to yet another: “the most biker friendly free rally in the United States.” The Thunder Beach Motorcycle Rally is held twice a year—spring and fall—and boasts a huge turn out every time. If you “live to ride,” this is definitely an event you won’t want to miss. Thunder Beach hosts a ton of biker events, including contests, parades, and live music. Even if you don’t ride a motorcycle, this is a great spectacle to witness. It may even make you want to join the club!

If you’d like to book a Panama City Beach vacation with stunning views of the Gulf, check out what iTrip has to offer. iTrip is a discount vacation rental company that can make your stay complete. You can find several Panama City beachfront properties to suit your travel desires.

Panama City Beach is a place where people can let the stress of life melt away as they enjoy a relaxing vacation filled with sun, sand, and surf. But, after the big orange ball sinks into the horizon, Panama City’s streets come to life. This Panhandle town has a lot to offer for those interested in having a cold beer with friends at a local beach bar or dancing the night away at a popular nightclub. If you are a social butterfly and like keeping your nights out fun and exciting, Panama City Beach is the place to visit.

Panama City Beach Bars

When you’re looking for a place to relax, drink a cold one, and watch the game, nothing beats a local sports bar. The same goes for beach bars when you’re craving the sounds of the sea with your beverage of choice. Just get some friends together, pull up an umbrella table, and you’re set. Panama City Beach is no stranger to these popular vacation staples. In fact, it’d be hard not to find a beachy pub on the main strip or sprinkled throughout town. So, when you’re planning your trip to the Panhandle, be sure to pencil in a day of relaxing and doing nothing at all. Here’s a list of some of the sports and beach bars Panama City Beach has to offer:

• Beach House Bar and Grill
• Hammerhead Fred’s
• Big Kahuna
• Good Time Charlie’s
• Harpoon Harry’s
• Pineapple Willie’s
• Spinnaker Beach Club
• Sharky’s Restaurant and Tiki Bar
• J Krash’s Sports Bar
• Time Out Sports Bar and Grill
• Grand Slam
• Powder Keg Sports Bar
• Ed’s Sports Bar and Grill
• The Runway Sports Bar
• Sandtrap Sports Bar

Panama City Beach Nightlife

When it comes to nightlife, Panama City Beach is rivaled by few. Once you’ve spent your day relaxing and soaking up some rays, top it off by adding a little excitement to your night. Panama City Beach nightlife is renowned for its non-stop party atmosphere, made famous in college circles by Spring Break festivities. However, the clubs in Panama City Beach never see an “off season” and can deliver a truly wild time year round.

Club La Vela is the largest and most popular nightclub in Panama City Beach. It contains 9 individually-themed clubs featuring different music styles and experiences. Some of the rooms include the Thunderdome, the Rock Arena, the Penthouse Lounge, the Galaxy, the Foam room, and even a pool deck. The club also hosts countless concerts and events throughout the year in its 6000 person capacity facility.

Coyote Ugly, made even more well-known in recent years by a like-named feature film, is a popular local bar that can get as rowdy as a nightclub. As the movie suggests, this bar/club’s bartenders are also dancers who put on coordinated performances on the bar tops.

As you can see, it’s not difficult to have a good time in Panama City Beach. The nightlife and beach bars are plentiful. Before you book your trip, be sure to check out what iTrip has to offer. iTrip provides affordable rental accommodations to travelers looking for the ultimate Panama City Beach vacation experience. No Panama vacation—or Panama night—is complete without it!

Panama City Beach has plenty of sites to satisfy the curious and activities to satisfy the adventure-seeker in any family. If you’re planning a vacation trip to the Panhandle, it’s never too early to start putting together your agenda of fun things to do and interesting places to see. Here are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Panama City Beach.

Water Activities

When people think of Florida, most picture surf, sand, and clear blue skies. This does, of course, describe the scene most days in towns on the coast. Panama City Beach is located on almost 30 miles of white sandy coastline. And, with the coastline comes—you guessed it—water attractions. If you visit Panama City Beach, be sure to bring your bathing suit and plenty of waterproof sunscreen! Here are just a few activities you may want to include on your list of things to do on vacation:

• Airboat rides
• Scuba diving
• Fishing
• Charter boat excursions
• Swimming
• Snorkeling
• Boat tours
• Glass bottom boat rides
• Water Skiing
• Jet Skiing
• Parasailing

Golf

Tons of tourists flock to the Sunshine State every year and satisfy their craving for a relaxing game of golf. Golf is one of the most popular outdoor sports in Florida, and Panama City Beach definitely has it covered. You can’t go far without bumping into a manicured 18-hole course, driving range, or kid-friendly themed miniature golf attraction. Many tourists enjoy a round or two of mini golf with their families while vacationing in Panama City Beach.

Parks

Next on the list of family-friendly entertainment is parks. Many a fond, childhood memory has been made at any one of Panama City’s diverse collection of parks. Whether your family is looking for amusement park-style rides and food on a stick, water slides and lazy rivers, or camp grounds and nature trails, Panama City Beach has it all. Miracle Strip Amusement Park, Shipwreck Island Water Park, and St. Andrews State Park are just a few examples of what you’ll find if you explore a little inland.

Other popular attractions include museums and zoos. Keep everyone—young and old—entertained by stopping by the always fascinating Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum.

You could also get your fill of exotic and endangered species at Zoo World, Panama City’s non-profit educational zoo housing over 200 animals. If petting dolphins is more your style, then visit Gulf World Marine Park, one of Panama City Beach’s most popular marine tourist attractions.

While you’re making travel plans, make sure they’re complete by using iTrip. iTrip is a convenient discount vacation rental company that can help you find the perfect Panama City Beach condo or hotel. Make your vacation the best that it can be by booking accommodations located right where the action is.

Fishing is a popular attraction for both Panama City Beach residents and tourists alike. As with any coastal area or port town, fishing is not only a hobby, but also a serious sport and livelihood for many. Travelers can get their fill of seafood platters, but if they’d like to get a more up close and personal view of their dinner, they can be a part of the process itself!

There are plenty of fishing supply shops along the beaches of Panama City, with everything from reels to rods, baits to tackle. You can pick up some fishing gear or rent it from a nearby marine supply store. Some visitors even hire fishing guides who show them the ropes and point out the best fishing spots in town. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned sea fishing veteran, Panama City Beach can satisfy your most nagging fishing desires.

Fishing Charters

Vacationers looking to hook the “big one” in Panama City can go on fishing charters. Fishing charters are convenient for those who have no boat of their own. Boat rentals are very common in beach and other fishing communities with tourism such as that in Panama City Beach. Many of the charter boats in Panama City are available year round, so even the snow birds can partake in the Panhandle’s rich aquatic abundance.

Fishing trips on charter boats can range anywhere from just a couple of hours to several days for deep sea fishing. There are a variety of boats to choose from depending on your fishing needs. Many companies even supply the fishing equipment and bait, as well as any licenses needed. All you need to bring are yourself, a cooler, and some sunscreen!

Deep Sea Fishing

Deep sea fishing off of Panama City Beach is a real treat for true blue lovers of the sport. Amberjack, Mahi Mahi, Snapper, Grouper, Mackerel, and Shark are just a few of the best kinds of big catches off the Panhandle coast. Shark fishing, specifically, is best done during the summer months, and especially at night. Several species of shark can be found in Panama City’s coastal waters:

• Mako
• Hammerhead
• Black Tip
• Bull
• Tuger
• Bar
• Nurse
• Leopard

Deep Sea fishing is a time consuming process, but it’s one that can prove very relaxing to those who participate. Most deep sea fishing charter boat trips are at least 8 hours long, the longest spanning a few days. However, given the nature of the fishing being done, and the time it takes to get to the locations over artificial reefs or natural sea bottoms, this amount of time is a necessity.

So, what are you waiting for? Book your deep sea fishing vacation today with iTrip, the premier discount vacation rental company of Panama City Beach. Don’t forget to bring your camera for when you catch the “big one”!

iTrip offers a variety of Panama City Beach accommodations to its guests. You can quickly and easily browse its inventory and select the type that best fits your travel needs. Some opt for a beach home, looking to satisfy their craving for real island living. Others enjoy luxurious villas for a vacation with a European feel. Either way, these vacationers are getting the best, family-owned, professionally-cared-for accommodations available.

Panama City Beach Vacation Accommodations

If you’re looking for cheap vacation accommodations, iTrip is the company to trust. iTrip provides travelers with exclusive discounts on everything from lavish condos to cozy cabins.

Condos

iTrip has a host of Panama City Beach condos available for rent. The genial Florida climate allows guests to enjoy the surrounding beaches and attractions year round. Condos are individually-owned apartments in the sky which share amenities such as swimming pools and gyms. Many beachfront condos come with amazing views and are conveniently located near Panama City’s main attractions.

Beach Homes

A popular vacation accommodation is the classic beach home. If you’d like an authentic encounter with Floridian life, enjoy the comforts of a real Florida residence. Staying in a Panama City Beach home can make you feel as though you call this little piece of paradise your home. No need to worry about noisy neighbors or sharing a swimming pool or spa with strangers. Beach homes give you the privacy you need and the amenities you love.

Villas

Villas are adequately-sized, detached suburban homes. Originally used as upper class European country homes, villas have evolved into luxurious get-away accommodations for travelers seeking privacy and comfort. Villas are versatile travel accommodations. They can be romantic hideaways for honeymooners or simply serve as a resting place for an active family on the go.

Chalets

A chalet is the type of style home often found nestled in a mountain cleft or atop a sprawling countryside. Originating in Switzerland, many people also refer to chalets as cottages or lodges. iTrip offers these cozy accommodations to guests who enjoy peaceful seclusion and the ultimate in relaxation. If it’s time to get away from it all, chalets just may do the trick!

Cabins

Vacation rental cabins can set the tone for a unique excursion. Like chalets, they are often found in more rural areas. Guests can get in touch with nature or get re-acquainted with their families. Traditionally, cabins are made of wood, but you can find more modern cabins that still retain a rustic feel. If you enjoy camping but can’t part with your everyday creature comforts, a cabin is what you’re looking for. Cabin living really is the best of both worlds!

Vacation Homes

A Panama City vacation home is the ultimate in luxury beach accommodations. Finding the perfect vacation home is made easy with iTrip. Whatever your family is looking for in a home or condo, iTrip is sure to have something for everyone!

A Panama City Beach condo is the perfect locale for your next Florida family vacation or romantic getaway. Not only is Panama City Beach home to sugary white St. Andrews Bay coasts and cool, salty Gulf breezes, but it’s also home to an unexpectedly wide selection of condominium vacation beach rentals. This quaint panhandle city has something to suit everyone’s vacationing style and budget.

Panama City Beach Condominiums

Panama City Beach rental condos can be affordable alternatives to hotels in Panama City Beach. Like hotels, many rental condos are often located right in the middle of the action, with main attractions, airports, and dining and shopping areas close by. On the other hand, many condos are located off the beaten path, giving you both the privacy and comfort of a residence and the luxurious feel of a vacation.

Panama City Beach is a place where you can easily find anything from homey to luxurious rental condos at discount prices. For the square footage, guests can get more for their hard-earned money than they would from a standard hotel suite. Vacation condos offer plenty of style and comfort to make their guests feel right at home. These beach rental properties boast spacious rooms, full-sized kitchens, multiple bathrooms, and first class amenities. Panama City Beach condos ultimately leave little to be desired when it comes to procuring that island getaway or home-away-from-home feeling.

About Renting a Condominium

Travelers can conveniently browse for and book rental condos online. Rates are very competitive and you can often find a great deal, no matter if your trip is during the busy or the off season. Deciding on the right vacation rental company to go with should depend on quality and customer service. Renting or leasing quality vacation rental condos with iTrip is the natural choice and comes highly recommended by many satisfied customers.

iTrip is a full-service vacation rental management services company that offers world class condos, beach homes, villas, chalets, cabins, and other vacation homes. This company provides discounted rates to travelers from around the world. iTrip has an eclectic selection of rental properties to choose from, so you’re sure to find something that fits your needs no matter when or where you choose to vacation. Anyone with the internet can utilize this innovative way to travel. You can browse Panama City Beach and the surrounding area’s finest vacation rental properties with a simple click of your mouse. iTrip provides several pictures of the rental properties to help you decide. And, what you see is what you get!

Vacationing in style has never been easier than with rental condos. They are the affordable way to get the luxurious beach front vacation of your dreams without the astronomical beach front prices. Panama City beach rental condos can give your family the tropical get-away experience they’re looking for at a price you can afford.

The sun beats down on thousands of tanned youths. Weary students instinctively flock to 27-miles of shimmering coastline. This could mean only one thing: spring is here! Spring Break–that time when students can come up for air during an intense semester of studying, of freedom before hunkering back down for final exams, of temporarily leaving the stress of class behind them. Most students decide they need a change of scenery during their week of freedom, and, every year, thousands of them make Panama City Beach their scene of choice.

Who could blame them? Panama City Beach is the number one Spring Break location in Florida and boasts hundreds of thousands of Breakers each year. Students can’t resist the beautiful, powdery sands of the Gulf coast and the tropical paradise atmosphere that Panama City Beach has to offer. There are many things to do in Panama City Beach. On every corner, you can find beach front restaurants, tiki bars, and a variety of clubs to suit your tastes. There is always something to do, regardless of the time or day. Many places host volleyball tournaments, slip and slide races, live bands, aquatic activities, talent contests, and countless themed nightclub events throughout the week.

Panama City Beach Nightlife

Panama City Beach is known for its tropical bars and wild clubs. The Boatyard, Hammerhead Fred’s, Harpoon Harry’s, La Vela, Schooners, Sharky’s Beach Club, and Spinnaker’s are some of the best hot spots in the area. The tradition of Spring Break has made some of these places famous among college crowds. Even with some international competition, Panama City Beach’s own Club La Vela has been ranked fifth on the list of Spring Break’s most popular party spots. Students can even make a name for themselves in televised Spring Break infamy. For several years now, MTV and mtvU has made Panama City Beach the home of several of its Spring Break specials, which feature televised performances of popular musical artists as well as the amateur offerings of massive vacationing audiences.

Spring Break on the Cheap

Best of all, a trip to Florida’s Panama City Beach can make for a pretty cheap Spring Break. Students aren’t known for having a lot of extra cash, which makes this panhandle city an ideal playground for the average spring-breaker. Panama City is a much more economical destination than some of the more exotic, international alternatives. You don’t need a passport or even an airplane to get there. Great rates on hotels and condos are available through businesses like iTrip, a discount vacation rental services company. The money you can save on a condo or hotel room can be spent on making the most of your stay.

So, if you’re a student, bogged down by the woes of academia, consider Panama City Beach for your next Spring Break get-away. Your finals will pale in comparison against your sun-kissed tan.