In my work we do business with customers from all over the country and sometimes it is proper to bring them here to negotiate or train.  Today, a sweet couple from Arkansas concluded their business by noon and expressed a desire to see the Gulf before driving home.  I directed them and advised them about visiting Gulf Shores.  It struck me that I found myself almost apologizing for the place.  I'm telling them how to get to the few places where a visitor can actually park his car and get on the beach itself.  For the most part you can drive along and catch glimpses of the water between high rise condos.  And, buy your tanning lotion and cold drinks before you go, cause the prices there are ass throw no meekal.  I sure miss the old days.