From Brazil to Sanibel, Beach Frolicking Same in Spring
Monday, December 7th, 2009
Thinking back on my travels, I have fond memories of spring like temperatures as winter in Rio de Janeiro transitioned into spring. I was living in this hub of samba and soccer and though the seasonal changes were nothing like we know them in the northeast USA, the transition of seasons in Brazil was subtle yet noticeable. The Cariocans (Rio natives) would begin to shed their jackets and go sleeveless in the streets. And life on the beach began anew. One sure fire sign of spring in Brazil were the acrobatic feats observed on the shores in Rio as well as small coastal towns all over the country. The agility of the participants was awesome. Though I have never observed the rites of spring in quite the same way on the Island of Sanibel, I have watched the dolphins perform similar acrobatics as the Gulf waters warmed under a stronger sun. Observance of the passage of time in the tropics is a studied art. No winter snow storms or abundant flowering trees divide the winter and spring. But the watchful eye will see more subtle changes. The wind warms, the day lengthens, the shadows diminish. And, of course, crowds disperse, restaurants become less populated and accommodations become less expensive. The months of April and May are among the nicest to visit Sanibel, as we have seen year after year!
And for die-hard sporting fans, the season for baseball spectators begins in Spring.
The Southwest Florida area is home for spring training for Major League Baseball teams including the Boston Red Sox and the Minnesota Twins.
You can also see the the Fort Myers Miracle Baseball team. Here’s a list of Spring training sites and phone contacts:
Boston Red Sox Spring Training City of Palms Park 2201 Edison AveFt. Myers, FL 33901
Tickets: (239) 334-4700Administration: (239) 334-4799
Minnesota Twins Spring TrainingLee County Sports Complex14100 Six Mile Cypress PkwyFt. Myers, FL 33912
Tickets: (800) 338-9467Administration: (239) 768-4225
Miracle Professional BaseballLee County Sports Complex14100 Six Mile Cypress PkwyFt. Myers, FL 33912(239) 768-4225
The Miracle team is a member of the Florida State League.
Games are held April through August.