Tarpon Springs

Tarpon Springs, http://www.tarponsprings.com/ named for the tarpon fish, was established in 1822 and is home to the famous sponge docks and divers. Greek immigrants started the sponging business in this sleepy, waterfront town near the Anclote River many decades ago and still maintain an active sponge business today.

Located on the west coast of Florida, it's convenient to many cities and beaches. It's about a 45-minute drive from Tampa and a 30-minute drive from St. Petersburg.

I've been to Tarpon Springs as an adult several times and I have to say, it's like stepping back in time. The city itself is listed on the Register of Historical Places and is not a fast-paced urban nightmare but more relaxed and easy going. The people are friendly, the deep-sea fishing is fantastic and the food, well, that speaks for itself.

The world famous Pappas Restaurant, http://louispappas.com/ has some of the best Greek food to be found. Traditional dishes such as gyro sandwiches, authentic Greek salads and the very special dessert, baklava (a creation of layers of phylo dough stuffed with walnuts, honey and spices) are musts when visiting this city. Please click on the link and peruse their menu and for some interesting reading click on the history of this 75 year old restaurant to find out how it all began when Louis Pappas came to this country in 1904 from Sparta, Greece. Also, I'm including this link to a baklava recipe because once you taste it, you're going to want to know how to make it, I promise. http://lldzines.com/baklava/baklava.htm

There are a multitude of activities and entertainment year round including concerts, seafood festivals, a golf tournament, classic car show, more food festivals, craft show, 5k run, and a huge arts and crafts show with over 200 artisans participating.

The winter months bring on a Christmas parade followed by an Illumination on Christmas Eve. In January 2004, they will have the 30th anniversary celebration of the Epiphany and the traditional diving for the cross.

As you can see, the residents like to celebrate. Its no wonder Tarpon Springs is one of the most visited cities in Florida.

There's plenty to do while touring around the city, including shopping at the numerous specialty shops, antique hunting, restaurant sampling, museums, church's, and aquarium along with just basic sightseeing of this historical town filled with old and new architecture. Whatever you do, do not bypass the sponge docks!

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