Trifter

The visit to “Sanibel-Captiva “Island was long overdue, but long drive approximately 160 miles one way from Miami became a strong obstacle for this visit. Finally I made up my mind to visit the place before I really get short of time in Miami. The two nights before, I could not get proper sleep due to some change in daily routine. But in spite of the fatigue I decided for this trip on Oct 20,2008. My day started almost when I was entering Islands.

This pair of Islands are located on south-west side of Florida. “Sanibel”is 12 miles long and 3 miles wide but “Activa” is small in comparison only 4 miles long and 1/2 mile wide. The islands are also known as Shell Islands. Their unique geographical orientation is east to west which acts as scoop and gathers sea shells on beaches from Gulf of Mexico. They are famous for shells beaches where people all over the world come to collect precious treasures of Sea.The second important place of visit is “J.N Ding Darling “National Wild life Refuge.There is wide territory of wildlife refuge home to 238 species of birds, more than 50 types of reptiles, and 32 different kinds of mammal. The area is lush with sea grape, wax and salt myrtles, red mangrove, cabbage and sable palms, and other native plants. The third good place is internationally known Shell Museum center called “ The Bailey – Mathew Shell Museum”.
I started trip very early about 4.00 am so that to get maximum time in Islands. My planning paid off as I could complete most of activities in single day. I also visited Turner Beach famous for Sea shells. Though time in October is not suitable from shelling point of view due to relative calm in Sea, yet you can find huge number of Sea shells. One lady, at beach told me that she comes often from Michigan to satisfy her addiction to Sea Shells. The shore line had huge mounds of shells every where. However these were generally scallops but very brightly colored. I was told that you can get some good peaces only if you enter into sea and look for shells brought by waves but most get sucked up in backward movement . After lot of reluctance I did enter into Sea and this paid me with some beautiful shells. After about 2 hours of this activity I went to visit Wildlife refuge center. If you use official tram for this 8 mile trip you will not only pay handsome money $13.00 per adult but they also complete round in 30 minutes. However if you drive your own car a better option not only due to lesser ticket for $5.00 per 2-axle vehicle but also freedom of time. I was able to take lot of pictures which is special bonus.

Finally your trip is not complete if you do not see shell museum. They charge $7.00 per adult but it is worth visiting to appreciate the treasures and beauty of nature normally hidden from common life. 

These activities were really more than one could handle during one day. But due to exertion and interest I did not feel much. But when I came to home at about 10:00 pm, took bath and had a sound sleep making up shortage of previous days. Next morning, I was really tired and kept on feeling sweet pain for two days afterwords. But I consider it prize of activity which not only saves you from many future problem but also keeps physically/ mentally fit. After all these adventures and other activities like running , exercise etc give back in old age when you are still in better shape whereas many get bed ridden or permanent guests of hospitals. Is it not better to care now than feeling bad later on.

Location: Miami Florida Ajmal M Shah