A lot of people from all over have been telling us what we have to do while we're in Tampa. Let's just say our daily planners are filling up. For the benefit and edification of all, here's some of the stuff we've recently been ordered to do.
Having spent a good deal of time in Tampa visiting my father and grandfather, who retired there from Long Island per statutory requirements, I would recommend a visit to the Caliente nudist resort in Land 'o Lakes. The scene at the "conversation pool" on the weekends is swell. For a far less posh clothing optional experience, ask someone to take you to one of the other nudist camps up there (there are many—I forget which) to experience the "butt hut" on a Friday night for pitchers and bare-ass Karaoke.
I would also urge a visit to the Derby Lane dog track, preferably during a weekday afternoon. Be sure to say hi to my uncle Tony.
I assume you know all about "Our Lady of the Smudge," the office building in Pinellas that became a shrine after something approximating the shape of the Holy Mother appeared as a shadow on the tinted glass wall. I may still have a postcared.
Oystercatchers' has a fine sunday brunch. For the life of me I can't see what all the fuss is about with Ybor City.
This article appears in Jul 18-24, 2007.