Saving Money in Destin on Restaurants

When taking a vacation, we usually budget out our hotel room, activities and gas. So what happens when it comes to food? It's one of the variable expenses since some of us rather cook than go to a restaurant. However, why come to Destin and cook when the best cuisine in Florida is close at hand? The question that goes through your head is, "How can I afford to feed my family each night"? We know that eating out is not cheap, but here are a few ways you can put some money back in your pockets during vacation.

1) Check with the concierge/front desk staff at the lodging establishment and see if you get any perks. A majority of restaurants give free appetizers or discounts for certain guests. This can easily save your family nearly $100 during your trip.

2) Go to Restaurant.com and see what restaurants are selling discounted certificates in the Destin area. There are nearly 30 restaurants last time I checked (some good ones too!).

3) Check the tourist magazines and publications to see if certain places are offering discounts or coupons.

4) Instead of doing dinner every night, try going out to breakfast and lunch a few days instead since the tickets are typically much lower.

I hope these tips come useful on your next trip to Destin. You can view restaurants in Destin on Tripshock.com @ http://www.tripshock.com/search/category-42/city-12/

Important Information on Booking Pontoon boats in Destin FL

One of Destin's favorite activities is renting pontoon boats. You can do a lot of different activities like going to crab island (Destin's large sandbar right under the Marler Bridge), fishing in the bay, cruising for a sunset tour, or just relaxing under the Florida sun. There are many different companies in Destin that offer Pontoon rentals, but there are some things you may not know before you book.

1. You will be required to put down a valid credit card for damages of the pontoon boat. Some places won't take cash as a deposit so you may want to check first.
   
2. Make sure the company is established in the area. This shows that they have had repeat business throughout the year and maintained safety and quality standards.
3. If you own a cd player or Ipod, make sure you ask if a hook up is available for this. You may want to listen to your favorite music while cruising.
4. Pontoons are not allowed in the ocean. The coast guard will be after you and they'll be sure to cut your fun short.
5. Check the age requirements for the rental. Some places will not rent if you are under a certain age. You may be required to take a Florida Boaters Test. It's not very difficult!
6. Make sure you bring the boat back before dark. Some companies will charge a late fee if you keep it out too long. Make sure you are keeping track of the time. Other customers may be waiting.

Here are some of Destin's favorite places to rent pontoon boats. http://www.tripshock.com/search/category-45/

Finding the Right Fishing Charter in Destin, FL

When coming to Destin, it may seem that finding the right fishing charter is not easy to do. There are literally 100's of fishing boats in Destin and each one claims they can catch you the most fish. Here are the do's and dont's of finding the right charter boat for your trip!



Do's

1. See how long the company has been in business. If the company has been in business for a long time, it must mean that they get a lot of repeat business and they are established in the area.
   
2. Check prices with a few random charter companies to see how similiar they are. If you notice a big gap in pricing, there is probably something not right.
3. Always ask what is included in your trip. Tip is usually not included and it's customary to tip 15-20% to the deckhands for filleting the fish and helping out during the trip.
4. Make sure you know the difference between a party boat, group charter and private charter. Party boats may seem like a great deal, but you're put on a boat with up to 40 other people.
5. Make sure you ask what is biting. Fishing in Destin is seasonal and you may not be able to catch the red snapper or grouper you had in mind.
   

Dont's

1. Don't choose a charter company solely on the pictures you see on their website. Remember, they only put their best catches online and it's somewhat deceiving.
   
2. Since a charter boat is a relatively big purchase, make sure you check some references.
3. Don't cancel or change your trip just because you don't feel like going one day. Captains run a tight schedule and during busy season. You may be hit with a cancellation fee.
   
4. Don't bring your young kids on a trip that is more than 6 hours unless they know what to expect. Captains and deckhands are not babysitters and unless you are on a private charter, they can't go home early.
   
5. If you're serious about fishing, don't book a party boat! Private charters may cost more, but you will get a good experience for sure.

If you're looking for some fine charter companies in Destin, let TripShock! help you. TripShock.com works with the finest captains in the panhandle and can insure a safe trip for you and your party. Go to http://www.tripshock.com/search/category-23/city-12/ to view a list of available charters for booking.