Sanibel is a "tasty" place, and this past Sunday proved the point!

Generally when it comes to a Sanibel event, we like to announce it before, rather than report on it after the fact.

But the Annual Taste of the Islands bears reporting even though it is over.

It appeared to us that this was the largest of the annual tastings, and we think there may have been a couple of reasons for the growth in attendance that are very relevant to vacations on Sanibel.

Looking at all the not only happy but familiar faces, we are left suspecting that some vacationers choose this time of year because of the event.  And why not?

Being on Sanibel in November is always a joy.  The weather is usually great, the Gulf is often still warm, there are no crowds and accommodations are still at low season rates.  It's the best combination of an island vacation, and very special time in this sweet tropical place.

In addition, the combination of the "Taste" being on a three day week-end, at a time when visitors from the USA have school conventions and time off for the kids, and when Europeans are starting to experience the cool and gray weather so common in November in places like Germany and northern France.

We also wonder if the change of venues might have been a draw as well.  The Dunes Golf and Tennis Club was an excellent choice with a lovely, spacious setting ....and free parking to boot. 

And some of our favorites were again in play.  Cip's , Traders, Jacaranda nearly 20 other restaurants were there with their great fare.  Food that helps to

But perhaps the most compelling reason for the attention and popularity was the opportunity to support the Center for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife.  C.R.O.W relies heavily on this event.  It is their premier fund-raiser of the year.  And as C.R.O.W. continues to get known for the wonderful work they do, more and more people want to attend Taste of the Islands as a way to support C.R.O.W. and get to see their friends who are there for the same reason.

So, as a heads up for next year, you might want to consider a fall vacation on Sanibel for you and your family.  And there might not be a better time to be here than for the Taste of the Islands.