Florida State HOG Rally
We set out for Destin Florida early on Tuesday October 19, 2010. We met up with the rest of our riding group at Crystal River Harley Davidson. Kick stands were up at 8 am sharp on this chilly (for Florida) morning. We headed north up Rt. 19/98 for an hour and stopped for a quick breakfast. (you will notice a pattern here). Hopped back on the bikes and drove up to the panhandle, stopping for gas once and then onto a great lunch on the water in Apalachicola. After lunch we headed west on 98 arriving in Destin just in time to check in and plan dinner!
The Emeralde Grande Resort was headquarters for all the fun and festivities at the Florida State Harley Owners Group Rally. The resort has beautifully appointed units with up to 4 bedrooms. We shared a 4 bedroom unit that over looked the inlet and the marina. We spent most of our time on the balcony admiring the view.
The balcony also afforded us the best seat in the house for the events held there. We were near the main stage. We spent most evenings enjoying the bands and hanging out. One of the favorites was Long-Reef a group from Australia, they play Destin and vicinity year round. Check them out on Facebook.
We enjoyed beautiful rides along the gulf near Ft. Walton Beach and Pensacola. The water and beaches looked sparkling clean. We did not see one hint of oil on any beaches. We did see cleanup crews ready and waiting should a speck of oil appear on the pristine white sand or in the water.
We had an airshow almost every day with the fighter jets flying over. The rally committee made arrangements for a group of private pilots to give us a show in their vintage WWII planes. That was one of the highlights of the trip.
The Emerald Grande was a great place to stay, in the heart of Destin and the Rally was a great time. We are happy to go back next fall again.
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