24 TRAVEL The Straders soak up the sun Memories make for the best souvenirs By Laura Fogarty VacationVibesonIOP.com For first-time Isle of Palms vacationers Dennis and Deborah Strader, the recommendation from their Greenville, South Carolina, neighbors to give the Isle of Palms a try is one they are grateful they took. “This place has such a wonderful feeling about it,” said Dennis. “The overall vibe of Isle of Palms is welcoming with a touristy yet somehow small-town feel.” Originally from Indiana, the Straders wanted to experience vacationing on the coast once they retired after 43 years in the automotive industry. “Charleston Coast Vacations took such great care of us and took care of every need and want on our list,” explained Dennis, while describing the beautiful house they rented on Palm Boulevard. “Multiple decks, patio, sunroom, pool, right across from a beautiful beach access path; what more could you want?” Dennis and Deborah can’t wait to return to the island and feel certain their future trips will include friends and family. “We’ve been to several places along the coast of South Carolina,” Dennis said. “We love to vacation on the coast. All of the beautiful areas here have something unique to offer, from Myrtle Beach to Folly. The Isle of Palms is our definite favorite because of the family-friendly atmosphere. It’s not a party place. Peace and quiet seems to be a way of life here and we enjoy that simple pleasure immensely.” With two sons and five grandchildren, Dennis and Deborah find themselves busiest during the summer months while helping with childcare. They look forward to bringing their family back next summer while also planning return visits during the spring and fall months with their rescue dog Mack, a 5-year-old black lab, English pointer mix. Usually Mack is more than ready to leave whatever destination he finds himself in but not this time, according to Deborah. Mack enjoyed walking up and down Palm Boulevard so much that he didn’t seem to want to leave when the time came. “I think he mostly enjoyed watching the pool and the sounds and smells of the ocean,” she said. Collecting seashells and watching the sun set over the Atlantic Ocean were among the most cherished highlights of the Straders’ trip. Dennis explained with glowing gratitude, “The accommodations, the great food and reasonable prices will definitely bring us back!” IslandVibesIOP.com
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