Condé Nast Traveler readers voted Longboat Key, Florida, as the No. 2 island in all of North America, for its blend of wild, natural beauty and manicured elegance. Visit Florida reports.

The Pacific was not pacified. Between the strong wind and the deafening sound of rushing waves there was no place for a peaceful stroll on a beach or a picnic under a rock. I had to scramble the initial plan and resort to just standing there, tightly draped in my pea coat, on an otherwise warm sunny day.

One of the most dramatic ways to experience a Sarasota sunset is aboard a cruise. There are several to choose from, and all afford opportunities to witness the area’s sea life, blazing sunset and opulent waterfront mansions. Whether you prefer a party boat, dinner cruise or a quiet romantic sail, you’ll find a satisfying venue at Marina Jack in downtown Sarasota.

Of all the countries in the world, there is perhaps none more magical than Italy. This dream destination is blanketed in a rainbow of colors; from lush vineyards and snowcapped mountains to golden sands and deep blue seas.

On Bradenton Beach at Anna Maria Island, this is a segment of the “Gulf Beaches Story”. Watch the entire video of Bradenton Beach at videoofannamariaisland.com with host Lisa Codianne Fowler; produced by Charles Robert Neuf.

History and Travel on Anna Maria Island, Florida, narrated by Lisa Codianne Fowler. “Video of Anna Maria Island.com” is a Rich Media site exploring the old and the new on Anna Maria Island. The video is produced by Charles Robert Neuf and is part of the Gulf Beaches Story. Check it out at videoofannamariaisland.com

A down economy may mean a decline in spending, but it doesn’t have to equal a decline in fun. Sarasota has many ways for visitors to explore and make long-lasting memories, even without a lot of padding in their pockets.

Let’s count the ways to have fun for free or nearly free despite the recession. Here are 20 things you can do with less than a 5 dollar bill.

Gracious greens, softly undulating fairways, tranquil waters… it’s no secret that Sarasota’s resorts boast some of the lushest links in the country. Longboat Key Club and Resort, The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota and The Colony Beach & Tennis Resort offer gorgeous championship courses that challenge golfers from novice to pro.

Little did I expect my e-saver ticket to Frankfurt would lead to Wiesbaden. I was looking for a historic city with impressive architecture, parks, culture, good food and wine. Also, spas and some shopping would be nice. Of course, I only had three full days.

Puerto Rico is a hotspot for music lovers, thanks to its diverse musical and dance traditions. An excellent place to sample five important aspects in one night is at the Le Lo Lei Festival, a weekly performance, sponsored by the Puerto Rico Tourism Company. This VIDEO highlights the impressive performance that takes place very Tuesday night, when the Guamanique dance company takes to the stage at the Castillo San Cristobal, a colonial era fort that dates to 1783. For the price of a $3 admission to this historic site, you get a lively show in a beautiful location.