Well, Roy and I decided to get away..and we meant GET AWAY. On Friday May 16th, 2003, off to Florida we went. First stop was Parliament House in Orlando. That night, Lauren, Jackie Hill and Cathy and her wife Debbie join us for Dinner and general good times. As you can see, I dressed for comfort not style and just relaxed and "was myself". I had a good time as I hope everyone else did.
The next day (the 17th) Lauren gave us a ride over to Tampa where we checked into the Marriott Courtyard downtown. While I cant claim that they were used to the idea of a man going in and coming out as a woman, they were very professional in their dealings with us and whatever the staff thought, they kept to themselves. The only thing that makes me think they were kinda non-plussed was that a couple of the valets were laughting a couple of times as we came or went...but away from us. Let me repeat that while dealing directly with us, they were very very cordial. A young couple in the hotel were shocked to say the least when they caught me taking pictures in the hall. Not exactly a T-friendly hotel or clientelle but no ugly scenes. On the other hand, our trip out that night was delightful.
We went to "Tropics" for Dinner. If you ever go to Tampa and want a good friendly atmosphere for dinner, I strongly recommend the Tropics. Afterward we made a trip over to Largo to "Lost Boys". It was a slow night, however very congenial as we met other T girls and saw the general situation. Sunday, we went out sightseeing after I went to church that morning and Roy and I went to a Movie in one of those old movie theatres with an organist who, btw, disappeared slowly into the floor as the movie started. So, even if you are not out for the evening there are many things to do in Tampa that are fun.
Monday, we went over to St Pete and checked into the Suncoast Resort. Now this is a truely kewl place. Good food can be had in the restarant on site...and trust me when I tell you NOBODY ever goes away hungry. Drinks are very cheap during the week and the staff is very helpful. Really, this place is vastly underused by the T community...come on girls use it...it is great.
