Calling all you Gulf Coastal Gals

[RweTHEREyet]

This Saturday, I will be making that long drive down to your neck of the woods to visit with my Mom. When I asked her what she wanted to do while I was there, she asked if I wanted to go to Biloxi. I know she wants to very badly, and I do too. We lived there for 2 years when I was in High School, and I so want to see what the area is like one year after Katrina. Plus, we do want to hit the casinos a little. I understand the MGM Grand is back open and the Beau Rivage opens tomorrow. Anyone have suggestions on where to stay that would have some fairly decent rates. I saw the MGM had a $99 room, not too bad for a casino, but I am wondering about Hampton Inns or Fairfield Inns or something like that.

Also, I remember hearing the in the past about there being a Disney Outlet, maybe down at Silver Sands, is that a correct memory or mine?

Anything else I should be sure and not miss while there? I will be down about a week, and think maybe we will spend two nights in Biloxi. Mom was hoping for one, but the last time I saw her, she said she thought she would never get to Biloxi again, so I would kind of like to surprise her with two nights.

[Rozzie]

To be honest, I am clueless on Biloxi post Katrina. I haven't gone over there since Katrina. I *think* also the Isle Capri is open and the IP (Imperial Palace). I would think the IP would have better rates, they usually do, as they are on the backbay. My fave was always the Beau, but I am going to wait quite a while for the crowds to die down after it's Grand Reopening. As for other nongaming hotels, I would think there would be quite a few reopened if the casinos can reopen. I remember there was that Comfort Inn across from the Beau that we used to stay in, don't know if that is there, reopened or not.

As for Silver Sands, I don't know. I know there is a junky Disney Outlet in Foley, don't waste your time at that one. Foley does have some good outlets. I love their Eddie Bauer outlet.

You and your mom have a good time. Let me know how it is over there. All those old homes gone, it really is so sad. Be prepared for crowds at the boats, everyone that is going over is commenting on it's hard to play at peak hours, and sometimes non peak hours. Lots and lots of folks. Which is good for the economy over there I suppose.

Have a fun girls trip, enjoy time with your mom! :yes:

[RweTHEREyet]

I checked with both the Beau and the Grand. The Grand had rooms next week for $99, the the Beau was $139, I think. I might jump on that Grand rate. I had also checked a Hampton Inn, and it was on par with the Beau, so I am thinking that the Grand might be the best way to go right now. Maybe I shold book it and if anything else comes along, I can always cancel.

[AFMom]

Silver Sands in Destin has a "Character Warehouse" which is basically a store with left overs from the theme parks. I love it there! I've gottn great deals on purses, toys, antenna toppers, kids clothes, etc. I REALLY want to get down there again to fill up on stiff before Christmas!
Have a great trip!

[RweTHEREyet]

Thanks Kristi, we always hit the one in Orlando, sometimes you hit some great deals. I need to get to the Harry and David outlet down there, too, so that will take care of two birds with one stone.

Rozzie, got that hotel problem taken care of. Called Mom and she said she thought she had some mail from them, they had sent her a new Rewards Card, same old number, but new card. I called and found out she had some free room offers, so now we have 3 free nights. :clappingh After the guy booked it for me, I was still in such disbelief that I called back with the confirmation no. to see what they would tell me the rate was, they said "free". :jawdroppi That will give me time to check out where I used to live and the High School and track down my cousin Patti. Too bad Disney doesn't reward like that, huh...............

[Rozzie]

Can't beat Free! :thumbsup: Awesome Rwe!!

[ErinC]

RWE- glad the room situation worked out for you. I was going to comment that the only restaurants that are left are the one's up by the interstate exits. I'm sure the casino's have spots to eat in too. The further you get from Biloxi (going west) the worse it is. I hope it won't depress you too badly. Have a great time with your Mom. Honk when you pass the Malbis exit (you'll only be a few miles from me and Rozzie).

[RweTHEREyet]

Mom also got an offer from the Beau Rivage for a free night and $75.00, so we are going to stay a 4th night and check out the swanky place.

Erin, I will wave and toot the horn when we pass by the Malbis exit.