Vrbo's Top Rentals: The Sea Shak In Florida

As the summer travel season kicks off, Vrbo has released its top vacation rentals of the year, and Florida is shining bright with one of the best properties on the list. The Sea Shak in Seacrest Beach is a stunning eight-bedroom beachfront home that offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico. With its rooftop observation deck, heated pool, and spacious areas, this home is perfect for large groups traveling together, accommodating up to 24 people.

For example, families can enjoy quality time together in the expansive ___ areas, while couples can relax in the serene outdoor spaces.

Vrbo's annual list highlights properties that have earned exceptional guest ratings, with every property on the list boasting the "Loved by Guests" badge, reserved for the top 10% of homes in a destination based on real guest reviews. According to Larry Plawsky, Senior Vice President and General Manager at Vrbo, this list showcases the finest vacation rentals on the platform, making it easy for travelers to find trusted, high-quality properties for their next group getaway.

The Sea Shak is a prime example, with its unique features like a rooftop observation deck, where guests can soak in the stunning sunsets and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

Seacrest Beach, located in the Panhandle along the 30A stretch, is renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches and laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a relaxing getaway. The area offers a range of activities, from water sports to golfing, and The Sea Shak's proximity to the beach and local attractions makes it an attractive choice for families and groups.

With prices varying depending on the time of year, but starting at $3,000-plus per night, this luxury vacation rental is an investment in unforgettable memories.

For instance, guests can explore the nearby towns, visit local restaurants, and enjoy the serene natural beauty of the area.

The Sea Shak's exceptional quality and guest ratings have earned it a spot on Vrbo's prestigious list, alongside other unique properties like a ranch with a saloon and a desert dome perfect for stargazing. As travelers plan their summer trips, properties like The Sea Shak offer a glimpse into the ultimate vacation experience, where comfort, luxury, and natural beauty come together to create ___long memories.

With its stunning architecture, beautiful surroundings, and exceptional amenities, The Sea Shak is the epitome of a dream vacation rental, where every moment is a chance to unwind, relax, and enjoy the company of loved ones.

Savoring Fame: The Florida Pizza Girl's Rising Star

She walks into the pizzeria, her yoga pants a comfortable choice for a long day of making pizzas. The Florida pizza girl, a rising star on social media, has been promoting Ian Kye's Pizza in Stuart, Florida, with her engaging videos. Her mission is simple: to showcase the pizzeria's Chicago-style thin-crust pizza and bring in more customers.

And it's working - the pizzeria has gained over 500,000 followers in just a month.

For example, her videos have become so popular that people are flocking to the pizzeria to try their famous pizzas and catch a glimpse of the pizza girl in action.

However, with fame comes a downside. The pizza girl has started receiving strange phone calls and unwanted attention from men. Some callers ask for her by name, while others make suggestive comments. She recalls one particularly disturbing call where a man said he wanted to "eat pizza girl" - a statement that left her feeling uneasy and uncomfortable.

To cope with these calls, she and her coworkers have developed a strategy: when these men call, they give them false information, hoping to throw them off her trail.

Despite her newfound fame, the pizza girl considers herself an introvert. She never expected to become a social media sensation and is still adjusting to the attention. As she navigates this new reality, she faces challenges like balancing her public persona with her private ---. For instance, she may need to be more mindful of what she posts online and how she presents herself to avoid attracting more unwanted attention.

It's clear that she's determined to stay focused on her work and share her passion for pizza-making with her fans.

The situation at the pizzeria has become intense, with constant phone calls and messages pouring in. One persistent caller has taken it too far, dialing in repeatedly until she simply hangs up on him. These interactions leave her feeling unsettled and unsure of how to respond. In response to these events, it becomes essential for her supporters to respect her boundaries and allow her to continue sharing her love for pizza without feeling threatened or disrespected.

A single disrespectful comment or harassing message can have serious repercussions on someone's --- - as seen in this young woman's case.

NCAA Women's Gymnastics Championship Showdown

In the sweltering heat of collegiate athletics, a quartet of gymnastic powerhouses has emerged, ready to clash in the NCAA women's gymnastics championship. Oklahoma, LSU, Florida, and Minnesota have navigated the treacherous landscape of the semifinals, their sights now firmly set on the ultimate prize.

For instance, Florida's dominance was evident from the onset, its athletes performing with a precision that seemed almost effortless, as if the outcome was never in doubt - and indeed, it wasn't.

The ascent of these four teams to the pinnacle of competitive gymnastics is a story woven from threads of dedication, perseverance, and raw talent. LSU's Kailin Chio and Amari Drayton stood out like shining beacons, their performances a potent reminder that individual brilliance can be the decisive factor in the pursuit of a national title.

Meanwhile, Oklahoma's quiet confidence belies a deep well of experience and skill, honed through years of competition at the highest level - making them a dark horse contender for the championship.

A glance at the historical ledger reveals that Florida boasts an impressive pedigree, with three consecutive national championships between 2013 and 2015 etched into its trophy case. Yet, over a decade has elapsed since the Gators last claimed supremacy, leaving an unquenched thirst for another title. Conversely, LSU still basks in the glow of its maiden national championship mere seasons ago, its hunger for repeat success burning brighter than ever - and with performers like Chio and Drayton on their side, it seems entirely possible.

In a shocking turn of events, UCLA's unexpected stumble on the vault apparatus paved the way for Minnesota's dramatic comeback. As Jordan Chiles' dazzling floor routine momentarily catapulted the Bruins upward, it seemed as though the Golden Gophers' chances were slipping away. But then came an awe-inspiring display on the uneven bars, one that resoundingly announced Minnesota's presence among the sport's elite and propelled them forward into Saturday's finale - proving once again that even until the very end, nothing is certain in this sport.

Hearty Bagpipes And Sweaty Kilts Unite

As published in Ever After in the Woods:

Can a single sound bridge the gap between a Florida palm tree and a misty Scottish mountain?

Every April, the city of Dunedin transforms. Just four days ago, on April 11, 2026, the 58th Annual Dunedin Highland Games took over Highlander Park. The heat rose from the grass, but the men wore heavy wool kilts without a single complaint. They carried on a tradition that started in 1966. This is not a theme park show. It is a living piece of history fueled by sweat and pride.

During the heavy athletics, the Caber Toss steals the show. These athletes lift a cedar log that is nearly 20 feet long and weighs 140 pounds. The goal is not distance, but a perfect flip. If the log lands at a twelve o’clock position, the crowd erupts. But the physics of it seem impossible. It requires more than just raw strength; it requires a sense of balance that defies the heavy Florida humidity. Strength is a quiet roar here.

Highland dancing looks like a delicate art, but it is a grueling sport. At the games this past weekend, dancers performed the Sword Dance over crossed blades. They must never touch the metal. In the past, soldiers did this before a fight to predict their luck. If they touched the sword, they feared the worst. Now, young athletes show that same focus under the bright Dunedin sun. Precision is their only shield.

The connection to Scotland goes deep into the local schools. Dunedin High School is one of the only schools in the United States with a full bagpipe and drum corps. These students do not just play for fun; they compete on a world stage. And they play at every graduation ceremony. Because of this, the town has a constant supply of world-class musicians. This town breathes through a reed. This musical legacy is a direct reflection of the city’s foundational identity.

The Deep Roots Of A Florida Clan

While most people think of the beach, Dunedin looks toward its namesake, Dùn Èideann, which is the Gaelic name for Edinburgh. The city founders, William Simpson and J.O. Douglas, gave the town this name in 1882. They wanted to honor their home. To this day, the street signs use both English and Gaelic. And the city maintains a formal "Sister City" relationship with Stirling, Scotland. This bond is a bloodline that continues to influence modern competition.

What we're watching

We are tracking the scores from the Grade 2 Pipe Band competition held at the Dunedin Community Center. The City of Dunedin Pipe Band often ranks among the top in the world, even traveling to the World Pipe Band Championships in Glasgow. We are also looking at the rise in "Clan" tents, where families trace their lineage back hundreds of years using massive physical maps. Beyond the formal rankings, the celebration spills over into the local social scene.

The Pulse

The energy in the "Ceilidh" tent reached a peak on Friday night. Local craft breweries, like Dunedin Brewery, created special ales just for this week. People do not just watch these games; they live them through the food, the drink, and the shared songs. It is a high-voltage celebration of identity. For those immersed in this atmosphere, testing one’s knowledge of the culture is an essential part of the experience.

The Mystery of the Hidden Tartan Quiz

Which of these things is actually true about the traditions seen in Dunedin?

• A: The bagpipe was originally invented in the Scottish Highlands.
• B: Wearing a kilt without a clan connection was once a crime in Florida.
• C: The "Sheaf Toss" uses a pitchfork to throw a bag of hay over a bar.
• D: Bagpipes were once classified as a weapon of war under British law.

The Unexpected Twist: The answer is D. After the Battle of Culloden, the bagpipe was seen as an instrument that inspired soldiers so much it was legally treated like a sword or a gun. In Dunedin, you are listening to an arsenal of sound.

Further Reading for the Curious:

• For Question A: Read about the Middle Eastern roots of reed instruments in The History of the Bagpipe by Hugh Cheape.
• For Question C: Check out the Official Rules of the Scottish Highland Games Association for the mechanics of the Sheaf Toss.
• For Question D: Look up the 1746 Act of Proscription which banned Highland dress and music.

The Strange Skill Of The Sheaf Toss

Inside the athletic ring, I saw something truly wild. This event looks like farm work turned into a feat of magic. The bag moves so fast it almost disappears against the blue sky. It is a brutal, beautiful display of agricultural heritage. No other sport makes a pitchfork look this elegant. This unique display of skill is a testament to the resilience of the original settlers.

The Secret History Of The Florida Scots

The 2026 games celebrated the fact that Dunedin was the first home of the Florida State Highland Games. In the early 1900s, Scottish settlers found that the pine trees and coastal weather reminded them of the North Sea, despite the heat. They didn't just move here; they rebuilt their world. They planted the seeds of a culture that refuses to fade. History is a stubborn thing.

Florida's Farm Bill: Politics, Agriculture, And Future

In the heart of Florida, a new chapter unfolds, one that weaves together the threads of politics, agriculture, and the future of the state. The farm bill, recently signed into law, stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of Florida's politics. This bill, a culmination of efforts from various stakeholders, aims to bolster the agricultural sector, providing support to farmers and ensuring the continuity of Florida's rich farming heritage.

For instance, the bill allocates funds for research initiatives, focusing on innovative farming practices and sustainable agriculture, which will undoubtedly have a profound impact on the state's economy.

As the midterm elections approach, the political climate in Florida becomes increasingly charged. The farm bill, in this context, serves as a pivotal issue, with candidates leveraging it to garner support from rural communities. The elections, a true barometer of public sentiment, will undoubtedly shed light on the priorities of Floridians, and the farm bill's fate will be closely watched.

It's worth noting that the outcome of these elections will have far-reaching consequences, influencing the trajectory of Florida's agricultural policies and the ___s of those who call the state home.

Delving deeper into the specifics of the farm bill, it becomes apparent that its provisions will have a tangible impact on the daily ___s of Floridians. By providing subsidies for farmers, promoting agricultural education, and supporting local food systems, the bill endeavors to create a more resilient and self-sufficient agricultural sector.

Moreover, the bill's emphasis on environmental stewardship and conservation will help mitigate the effects of climate change, ensuring that Florida's natural resources remain vibrant for generations to come.

The intersection of politics and agriculture in Florida serves as a powerful reminder of the intricate relationships between policy, economy, and environment. As the state navigates the complexities of its farm bill and midterm elections, it's clear that the decisions made today will have lasting repercussions on the future of Florida's agricultural landscape.

With the farm bill signed into law, Floridians must now wait and observe how its provisions will be implemented, and how they will shape the state's trajectory in the years to come.

Turbulent Times For Gators Women's Basketball: Empty Lockers, Uncertain Futures

Review by Yahoo Sports:

The Florida Gators women's basketball program is facing a major overhaul after a coaching change led to a mass exodus of players. Nine players from the 2025-26 roster have entered the transfer portal, leaving new head coach Tammi Reiss with a nearly empty locker room. The only players remaining are Me'Arah O'Neal and Jade Weathersby, who will have to form the foundation of the team. O'Neal, the second leading scorer, averaged 13.6 points and 6.4 rebounds per game, while Weathersby contributed 5.1 points and 2.9 rebounds off the bench.

The departure of star player Liv McGill is particularly significant, as she led the team with an impressive average of 22.5 points, 6.3 assists, and 6.1 rebounds per game. McGill's exit was announced on social media, where she posted "it's over now, you heard it loud from me." Her departure, along with those of her teammates, has raised questions about the program's ability to attract and retain top talent. For example, the team's two freshman recruits, Arynn Finley and Kennedy Holman, have also decommitted from Florida, further depleting the roster.

However, it's worth noting that the coaching change may not be the only factor contributing to the exodus of players. According to recent reports, Florida spent significantly less on women's basketball than other programs in the SEC, allocating only $5 million in fiscal year 2024. In comparison, top contenders like LSU and South Carolina spent more than double that amount. Additionally, Reiss's contract, which totals $4.5 million over five years, is among the lowest in the SEC, with coaches like Kim Mulkey earning over $3.2 million per season.

As Reiss begins her tenure as head coach, she will face significant challenges in rebuilding the program. With only two players remaining from the previous season, she will need to recruit new talent quickly to form a competitive team. Athletic director Scott Stricklin has expressed confidence in Reiss's abilities, citing her experience as both a player and coach, as well as her competitive spirit and work ethic. However, Reiss will need to prove herself quickly, both on and off the court, to restore stability and success to the Florida Gators women's basketball program.

Whispers Of A Forgotten Oasis: Haunting Remnants Of Luxury

Review by aol.com:

In the heart of Florida, a bygone era of luxury and relaxation lies shrouded in mystery, as the remnants of the Hampton Springs Hotel stand as a haunting reminder of a forgotten past. Built in 1908, this once-thriving resort was renowned for its mineral waters, drawing travelers from far and wide to bask in its supposed health benefits and indulge in high-society gatherings. The hotel's meteoric rise was facilitated by the introduction of new railroad lines, which brought an influx of visitors to the area, eager to experience the springs' therapeutic properties.

The allure of the Hampton Springs Hotel was not only its natural springs but also its picturesque surroundings, which included beautifully manicured gardens and intricately designed fountains. The sound of gently flowing water and the sweet scent of blooming flowers filled the air, creating a serene atmosphere that was perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. For instance, the hotel's main pool was a marvel of its time, with its crystal-clear waters and stunning stone carvings, making it a popular spot for socialites to see and be seen.

A series of unfortunate events marked the beginning of the end for the Hampton Springs Hotel, as it was repurposed as a military barracks during World War II, stripping it of its original charm and purpose. The final blow came in 1954, when a devastating fire razed the hotel to the ground, leaving behind only the stone foundations and basins as a testament to its former glory. Today, visitors can walk among the excavated ruins, tracing the outline of where buildings once stood, and imagining what life must have been like during the hotel's halcyon days.

As one explores the historic site, now transformed into a peaceful park, they are met with an unexpected serenity, despite the eerily abandoned landscape. Paved walkways guide visitors through the ruins, passing by defunct fountains and along creekside paths lined with lush greenery, while picnic tables and restrooms provide modern amenities amidst ancient decay. Moreover, nature has reclaimed parts of this beautiful relic – vines crawl over cracked stone staircases – ceaselessly reminding those visiting why such locations remind people who go on vacation year round even years after shutdowns.