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by
Rachel L. Miller
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| The
courtyard entry to Mary Mahoney's Old French House -- one of the best restaurants
in Biloxi, serving a number of delectable seafood dishes.
Photo by Rachel
L. Miller | Indeed,
the secret to the area's success lies in its unique mix of attractions. Where
else in the country can you stroll down oak-lined streets, perusing small shops
and art galleries, catching some rays on the pristine white beach before hopping
aboard a shrimp boat tour, then heading to the casino to place a few bets? And
don't forget the option of nighttime entertainment - oh, and fine dining featuring
everything from traditional Southern favorites (shrimp and crab fare is delicious
and fresh) to a good 'ole steak. You'd be hard-pressed to find a solid competitor
that offers the same value. What's
even better is that if you're an adventurous sort, but not crazy enough to join
the bump-n-grind mix of New Orleans during Mardi Gras, Biloxi is the perfect destination
for you. The crowds are thick during parade times, but not daunting or claustrophobic.
There's heavy competition for beads, but nothing as sinful (and clothing-optional)
as you'd find in the French Quarter. And to top it all off, the atmosphere is
family-friendly and safe - everyone from toddlers to senior citizens clamor for
those plastic pieces of heaven. No
matter when you visit, though, there's a wide array of lodging options awaiting
you. From gracious Southern hospitality at one of the area's many B&Bs to
a high-rise hotel room overlooking the Gulf, there's something to meet your needs.
For
those seeking a more intimate and quiet lodging experience, stay at Green
Oaks B&B in Biloxi, a Greek Revival raised cottage built in 1826. As Mississippi's
oldest remaining beachfront residence, it offers five gorgeously decorated rooms
from which to choose. Each room features fine antiques, a private bath, cable
television, telephone with computer data port, voice mailbox and access to a fax
machine.
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| Beau
Rivage has been named one of Travel + Leisure's Top 500 hotels worldwide.
Photo courtesy of Beau Rivage |
The
1,780-room Beau Rivage is the most upscale of all the
hotel properties, boasting a prestigious AAA Four-Diamond award. A MGM Mirage
property, the Beau Rivage is the largest hotel resort in the Southeast to win
the designation; the hotel offers such amenities as a world-class spa, a landscaped
pool, a shopping promenade, a marina and 12 restaurants. Throw in the degree of
entertainment offered at the facility (shows, concerts and of course, casino gaming),
and it's hard to imagine a more complete vacation getaway on the Mississippi Gulf
Coast. (CONTINUE...)
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