WHERE DO YOU SUMMER?

These local Birminghamians share where they plan to summer this year. Do you have exciting summer plans? Post and you will be entered to WIN a fabulous wicker beach bag!

"My summer getaway is usually at Lake Martin . Our lake house has been a home away from home for 20 something years. I LOVE IT! From the moment I get up, I enjoy every bit of that lake....walk straight out onto the deck to experience its pristine calmness with my cup of coffee. About mid morning, even if you don't exercise, most people tend to get out beneath ALL of the pine trees for a stroll or jog to pull in some of that clean, fresh air. Then off to the lake for a float...there are no waves crashing up against you, and you can just sit and RELAX and do NOTHING for hours. It is just heavenly! And of course for meals, you can always head over by boat to Sinclair's (the old Kowliga restaurant) or other lakefront restaurants to enjoy a peaceful bite while watching the sun set. Oh, and how could I forget about the unlimited amount of water sports and activities……….from skiing to fishing and the list goes on!! This place is paradise in Alabama." Ryan Graham, Masseuse
For more information on Lake Martin visit www.lakemartin.com

"I'm very excited about going to Sun Valley, Idaho this summer. I've never been before, but my aunt and uncle go almost every year, and they are very gracious to let us use their place during our trip. When I was young, my cousins would regale me and my sister with stories of their trips to Sun Valley, so I can't wait to finally see for myself. It seems like there is an array of outdoor activities to enjoy--from biking to hiking and even fly fishing. But there is also a resort town to enjoy when you might not be feeling quite as outdoorsy. It's the best of both worlds! Plus, it will be a nice break from the hot and humid Alabama July." Callie Sullins, Burr & Forman
For more information visit www.sunvalley.com

"When I have a free weekend over the summer (which isn't often), I go to my parents house on Lake Martin. It's right outside of Dadeville and just about 1 1/2 hours away, so an easy drive and quick getaway! I never was a lake person growing up, but going to Lake Martin this past few years has changed my perspective! I could lay out there all day reading books and magazines, swimming, or going on the boat or seadoo. Of course you have to take the trip to Chimney Rock! I've jumped once, but just from the middle level. It's always a huge party there, especially on the holidays! Usually other folks from Birmingham are down there too and it's a great place to anchor down and meet up!" Lacey Bacchus, Vulcan Park

"I can't wait to go to San Diego. You can lie on the beach all day, and there's lots of sunshine without all the humidity. The pool at the historic Hotel Del Coronado is fun too. It's a great place to people watch and they have delicious frozen drinks. Or, you can rent a convertible and drive up the Pacific Coast Highway to La Jolla to do some shopping. I love to cruise along with the top down and the radio up and take in the ocean views along the PCH, they are beautiful. At night you can do dinner and dancing at an number of fun places in the gaslamp quarter. And, although it sounds cheesy, the zoo and Sea World are great too." Emily Peers, Bayer Properties/The Summit
For more information visit www.hoteldel.com