The Florida Panhandle packs quite a whollup when it comes to soothing tired tourists, warming them up a little bit, and showing them a good time. Particularly during the winter months when less hospitable climates are sending chills up everyone's spine, it just makes sense to head south. Try Panama City Beach on for size if you're looking to nurture your snowbird instinct, as this destination is a well-established haven for sun seekers everywhere.

An average Gulf temperature of 72 degrees and weather hovering at a consistent 78 means that all year long this is a sub-tropical paradise. Past years have seen portions of the coastline named "Number One Beach in America" by authorities on the matter, and a constant stream of visitors solidifies Panama City's reputation as a solidly satisfying place to visit. In particular, St. Andrews State Recreation Area is 1.5 miles of pure beach fun heaven, and will no doubt come to play an important role in your visit here.

Also placing Panama City Beach above the pack is its colorful history. It is said that pirates camped out here as they awaited the passing of treasure laden ships to plunder, and they might even have buried some of their loot on these very shores. World War II gave Panama City Beach the chance to play a role in the action, and it became the site of a military reservation complete with cannon platforms. In other words, as you and your fellow companions take in the vast natural beauty, a rich historical vibe will help to make the experience a bit fuller.

Aside from traditional diversions like swimming, snorkeling, diving and fishing, not to mention simply relaxing on the unique quartz crystal sand, there's plenty that will entertain the whole family. Golf for the big guys (there are a handful of courses), min-golf for the kids, rides, parasailing, shopping, bungee jumping, and much more. Aquatic museums will let land-locked kids discover the wonders of the deep blue sea, and dinner cruises will let the adults relax in an atmosphere of calm and romance for once. A little bit of everything for whoever comes along spells success for this Panama City Beach vacation.

Perhaps you already knew it, but Panama City Beach is known as the "Seafood Capital of the World." Get your fix while you're here, taking advantage of all the crab, shellfish, and fresh-from-the-sea offerings you can handle. Coming from cold weather and perhaps a place that's far from the ocean, this will truly be a treat for your taste buds. Many restaurants feature outdoor dining so even if you don't get around to the dinner cruise thing, it'll be possible to dine and drink as you watch the sun go down. After night falls, hit the hay if you want but don't feel that it's a necessity. Clubs and bars will bring forth the inner partier in everyone, and a whole strip of options exists to tempt the dancers and the laid-back folks alike.

Emerald waters, shimmering beaches, a plethora of activities…this is exactly what a winter time escape should be. Hopefully you'll be able to break from the sad state of American vacation-taking today and claim a few days for yourself. It's okay to take a break, and you'll surely return back to your regular life feeling refreshed and more productive than ever.

Make a good trip even better by going the extra mile in the lodging department. Instead of a plain-Jane hotel, choose a property that rises above the same old thing thanks to its amenities, proximity to the beach, and spaciousness. Vacation rentals come in the form of condos, apartments, villas and beach houses, and each have their own delightful personality. Depending on the size of your group, the sites they hope to see, and your budget of course, there will be dozens of different places to choose from that will fit your profile.

Go online to check out the extensive Panama City Beach Vacation Rentals as you research the area itself. There's a lot to do for all you snowbirds out there, so prepare to feel the warmth of the Florida sun very soon.