A Room with a View at Crystal Sands in Destin

On the Gulf at Destin's Crystal Sands vacation rental

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During my recent travels in Northwest Florida, I settled in along the way at ResortQuest Wyndham Vacation Rentals (in Panama City Beach, Perdido Key and Destin). The options are innumerable (high-rise condos to smaller low-rise boutique properties). Each has a homey ambience that I found welcoming — all fit the beachy relaxed environments of their locations. I've decided these alternatives to the traditional hotel route are a great way to travel, whether you’re flying solo or on a multi-generational family vacation. Each destination had coastal-inspired interiors (you gotta love that) and family-friendly amenities (from swimming pools and movie rentals to fitness centers and more). Beach chairs are a given. Privacy is paramount.

On the final leg of my journey, while in Destin, my second-floor suite was as close to the beautiful crystal sand and emerald green water as I could get. Not only was the daytime view glorious from there, but also the night sky and the twinkling constellations seemed as if they were, amazingly, within my reach. Contentment reigned. And yes, the bed was plenty comfy too.

Tags: Crystal Sands | Destin | Gulf of Mexico | Panama City Beach | Perdido Key | ResortQuest | Wyndham Vacation Rentals