Top, Sanibel Island [Times photo (1996): Scott Keeler] Bottom, Pine Island [Photo: Lee Island Coast]

Pine Island
Escape from the crowded and predictable here, where ancient Indian mounds and cozy B&Bs punctuate a landscape that's an invitation to quiet leisure.

Sanibel
Island living provides plenty of opportunities for shelling and lets you feel how the other half lives.

Exploring the Calusa Indian Mounds at Pine Island
PINE ISLAND -- A busy scene unfolds on a sunny Saturday at the Calusa Indian Mound site, an archaeology dig on this island west of Fort Myers. Half a dozen veteran volunteers and a couple of archaeologists are teaching new volunteers to square off holes atop the 20-foot mound to prepare for soil and residue analysis. Then they sift through the soil and shells to learn about the objects and the people who used them as much as 1,500 years ago.

Invention, history meet in Fort Myers
The onetime winter home of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford boasts museums, beautifully restored buildings and cultural events.

Out of the Blue: Coffee, tea and metal cutlery, please
Airline passengers and flight attendants long for the days when in-flight service meant actual food and real utensils.

Small inns offer charm, comfort
Although Florida is noted for its large resorts, it also boasts lesser-known, quality lodgings that are small -- country hotels, B&Bs and in-town lodgings. Here is a sampling of accommodations that are not enveloped by their golf courses or multiple tennis courts and swimming pools.

Resorts tempt Floridians with summer deals
As the temperature climbs, the rates drop at some of Florida's most plush resorts. So if you've ever wondered what the out-of-state tourists are enjoying, summer is the time to find out.

Passholders' paradise
A calm spot in Epcot offers comfy furniture, free beverages and a play area for the kids. Just bring your annual or seasonal pass.