Moving to the area...would like Opinions from Other "Transplants"

we moved here about 16 months ago and really love it. moving is hard at first, period. but it gets easier once you get plugged in. as far as rentals, gateway lakes is nice (off fruitville and 75) you can also look at rent.com for other places (search by region, price range, etc). i am also involved in a MOPS group that i really enjoy if you're looking to meet some other mommies quickly. we meet the 3rd tuesday of each month at 7pm. childcare is available if needed. hope this helps and good luck:)
J.

I just moved to Sarasota last summer - with my husband and baby-to-be (due any day now). It seems like there are a lot of nice rental places, though I can't name anything specific b/c we bought a house very quickly. If you're interested in renting a house (vs an apartment or condo), I would highly recommend the Georgetowne neigborhood. It's between Fruitville and 17th street, just off of Honore. They have more houses for sale than rent, but I've seen both, and there are lots of young families.

If you're looking for things to do in the community, Mommy Magazine puts out a good calendar:
http://www.sarasotamommy.com/calendar.php

-L.

To be honest, my transition was difficult. However, I think it had to do with the original neighborhood we chose. We lived south of town in a gated community populated with retired types. It was like living on a Hollywood movie set. Now we live in Laurel Park and it is divine. Close to downtown and walking distance to tons of parks and activities, and there are other families out here. We are really enjoying Sarasota now. I'm sure you will, too.

I am originally from NJ and I moved down to Bradenton approx 4 years ago. This is a fantastic place to raise a family.

Here's a handy website that gives you all of the great things available for families in our local area

www.whatshappeningmanatee.com

I agree that Sarasota Mommy is also a good resource (though geared more toward parents of infants-preschoolers).

We live in NW Bradenton and find this nice quiet corner of the city is a great place (lots of families, big trees, parks etc). Depending on your style- and your budget there are many wonderful places to live.

Hello, I moved here from Northeast nine years ago, and I love it. I cannot imagine living in the Northeast ever again. It will take some getting used to the slower pace from the people. But overall there are alot of great things here. We live in an apartment that is nice the complex is called Sawgrass Cove Apts. in Bradenton, you might want to check them out in comparision to others. I am not sure if your looking for a complex or a rental. Good Luck with your move. C.