North Myrtle Beach sits on a salty foundation of sand and shells. Dig a little deeper, though, and you’ll find deep roots in music and dance.  In April, the area holds its annual festival that celebrates Shag, a traditional dancing style popular along the Carolina coast.

The Society of Stranders (S.O.S) will host the Spring Safari festival from April 16–25. Each year, the event draws thousands of shaggers from up and down the East Coast. They come to display their moves and kickoff the official start of Spring.

Throughout the 10-day gala of tunes, food and dance, area lounges welcome visitors with various shindigs, long ago dubbed “tea parties.” The festivities usually include performances by popular beach-music bands, as well as instructors offering classes for everyone from novice to experienced shaggers.

Grand Strand Vacations, a North Myrtle Beach property rental firm, opens its more than 350 luxury homes and condos for the rhythmic guests. This year, Grand Strand is offering the gift of two free nights during a four-night stay.

“We love shag, and the folks who share in the boardwalk memories of couples dancing the night away,” said Nancy Seddinger, owner of Grand Strand Vacations. “After getting down in the sand, we want to give our revelers a comfortable place to kick back, relax and catch up with old friends. There’s no better way to do this than at a Grand Strand property.”

When out-of-towners aren’t sipping cocktails and enjoying the ocean view from their seaside getaway, they’ll most likely be exploring the goings on at North Myrtle.

On Saturday April 25, the Spring Safari wraps up with the beloved parade down Main Street. The tradition is presented by the Association of Carolina Shag Clubs (ACSC). During the parade, floats wow spectators, competing for the most original design and best shag theme.  The street turns into a fairgrounds, with dancers and day-trippers enjoying food, entertainment and tunes.

S.O.S. started in 1980. That spring, the first festival drew roughly 5,000 people eager to compete in dance contests and listen to beach music. Over the years, the bash grew in size and events. Today, the Spring Safari marks a time for getting back to summer and reuniting with friends.

“We absolutely love this time of year,” Seddinger said. “This is a big coup for our region. We’ve become synonymous with something very special to people – beach dancing. It’s more than just the entertainment value. This is people’s memories of the past.”

Aside from free nights, Grand Strand Vacations also is offering golf packages with discounted green fees, as well as girls’ weekend deals. Pets are welcome.

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For the Grand Strand region, Easter signals the unofficial start of the tourist season. This time of year, many families juggling school and work choose the North Myrtle Beach area for a week-long retreat from the daily grind.

In 2010, there is no shortage of activities to celebrate the upcoming holiday and welcome visitors. It all kicks off with several Easter Bunny appearances around town. This year, kids not only have the chance to see the furry hopper, but can actually eat breakfast with him as well.

-    Breakfast with the Easter Bunny at the Children’s Museum of South Carolina will be held from 9-10 a.m. Saturday, April 3. Reservations are required for this event. Admission includes a free photo with the Easter Bunny and continental breakfast. After the meal, there will be an Easter Egg Hunt and holiday crafts. For more information, call (843)946-9469 or e-mail the museum at CMSCprograms@sc.rr.com.

-    The Market Commons will have an Easter Bunny Breakfast at 9 a.m. April 3. Attendees can choose to eat brunch at Roy & Sid’s, Gordon Biersch, Travinia, or King Street Grille. The cost is $8 per person. There also will be an Easter Egg Hunt and complimentary photos with the Easter Bunny following brunch. To make a reservation, call Roy & Sid’s at (843)839-9770, Gordon Biersch at (843)839-0249, Travinia at (843)233-8500 or King Street Grille at (843)238-3900.

-    Breakfast with the Easter Bunny at Hard Rock (located at Broadway at the Beach) also will be held April 3. There will be face painting and fireworks. For more information, call 1-800-FUN-INMB (386-4662).

This marks the 28th annual Easter Egg Hunt in North Myrtle Beach’s McLean Park. The hunt begins at 10 a.m. April 3. The Easter Bunny – or Ms. Blossom – is set to make an appearance to hand out candy to the children in attendance. Ms. Blossom also will be available for pictures. The Easter Egg Hunt will include divided areas for different age groups, which range from infant and above. Refreshments will be provided by the North Strand Optimist Club. For more information about this free event, call (843)280-5673 or go online at www.nmb.us.

For people looking for a traditional Sunday Easter service at the beach, there are plenty of churches in the area. Go to www.myrtlebeachchurches.com to find one. The site provides church listings for North Myrtle Beach, Myrtle Beach, Little River, Surfside Beach and Murrells Inlet.

With a variety of activities to keep visitors busy, the only thing left is to find a place to stay. Grand Strand Vacations, a beach vacation rental firm with more than 350 properties, is offering a Spring Special. Book four nights or more between now and April 30 and get two free nights. To make reservations, call 1-800-722-6278.

“There’s a reason people choose to spend their Easter breaks in the North Myrtle Beach area year after year,” said Nancy Seddinger, owner of Grand Strand Vacations. “Obviously, there’s the beach. But you’re treated like family around here.”

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Whether it’s with best friends or family, North Myrtle Beach offers the perfect setting for a girls-only trip. Leave the significant other, the kids and all worries at home while enjoying the sand, sun, shopping and more.

Obviously, the initial appeal of the Myrtle Beach area is the beach, and there’s plenty of it. The Grand Strand boasts more than 60 miles of white sandy beaches. Adventure seekers can rent a Jet Ski, sailboat or kayak, as well as take a ride on a parasail or banana boat. There also are opportunities to surf, scuba dive or go on a dolphin watch tour.

After working on tans, reading a good book or just catching up, some of the best shopping awaits. Bargain hunters will find two Tanger Outlet Centers. Some of the more than 100 stores include: Banana Republic, Coldwater Creek, S&K Menswear, Farberware, Liz Claiborne, Old Navy, Book Warehouse, Nags Head Hammocks, Bose Factory Store, Crabtree & Evelyn, Le Gourmet and Ultra Diamond Outlet.

Two of the area’s more popular destinations – Broadway at the Beach and Barefoot Landing – offer more than just shopping. In addition to chain stores, boutiques and specialty shops, they also are packed with restaurants, entertainment venues and nightlife spots.

The newest indoor mall is Coastal Grand. With nearly 1 million square feet space, it houses more than 130 stores, including Dick’s Sporting Goods, Dillard’s, Bed Bath and Beyond, Brookstone and Ethan Allen.

For ladies looking for more upscale finds, check out Hope Taylor & Company in downtown North Myrtle Beach. From linens, jewelry and art to collectibles, furniture and shoes, this boutique carries a plethora of brands: Brighton Jewelry, Liquid Metal Jewelry, Jan Barboglio, Mixed Bag Designs, Design-Design, Two’s Company, Spartina 449, Bunnies By the Bay, White River Designs, Lady Primrose, Vera Bradley, Arthur Court, Match Pewter, Waterford, Vietri, Timeworks, Tommy Bahama and more.

Besides shopping, one of the other attractions that make the Myrtle Beach area a popular girl’s weekend destination is golf. The Grand Strand is teeming with nationally recognized courses. In fact, one of the top LGPA courses is Grand Dunes, an oceanfront locale. They did away with advance tees from its membership course, inviting male and female golfers to tee off from the same tee boxes.

Other golf courses made popular by the ladies:
•    King’s North at Myrtle Beach National was listed by Golf for Women magazine one of the 100 best for women in America.
•    Willbrook Plantation also was recognized by Golf for Women magazine, which noted it was fun to play because of the open approaches.
•    The Palmetto Course at Myrtlewood Golf Club has garnered a reputation for playability. Measuring 4,906 yards from the forward tee, it’s light on water and rough.

Grand Strand Vacations, a property rental firm in North Myrtle Beach, has teamed up with Cinzia Spa to provide a package that includes a place to stay and relax after hitting the shops, fairways or other Myrtle Beach attraction.

Between now and June 1, girlfriends planning a weekend escape get a 20 percent discount off Grand Strand Vacations’ more than 300 North Myrtle Beach oceanfront, waterway and villa homes and condos. The starting rate is $200 for a two-night stay in a two-bedroom condo.

Grand Strand Vacations also can book an appointment for an afternoon of pampering at Cinzia Spa. They are offering the Express Diva Package, which includes a facial, massage and a manicure or pedicure, for only $117.

“For women who do too much for everyone except themselves, a little pampering and some time with friends works wonders,” said Nancy Seddinger, owner of Grand Strand Vacations. “And at such affordable prices, a getaway like this is a truly doable.”

For more information on the packages, call 1-800-722-6278.

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With ties to Southern rock and deep roots in the game of golf, the North Myrtle Beach area will merge both during the Hootie & the Blowfish Monday After the Masters Celebrity Pro-Am. Entering its sixteenth year, the tournament takes place April 12 at the Dye Club at Barefoot Resort. Gates open to the public at 8:30 a.m.

This year’s event tees off with pro links players like John Daly, Lee Elder, Kristy McPherson, Charlie Rymer and Spencer Levin –  just to name a few. Also in the mix, other famous sports faces such as former NFL quarterback Jim McMahon, NASCAR driver Kyle Petty, Football Hall of Famer Gale Sayers and MLB player Mickey Tettleton.

Rounding out the group of celebs, musician Edwin McCain, actor Kevin Sorbo, pro wrestler Ric Flair, musician Colt Ford and others will haul their clubs through 18 holes.

In a little more than a decade, the Monday After the Masters Celebrity Pro-Am has gone from a few big names to a high-caliber list of Hollywood regulars. Dubbed as one of the biggest goings-on in the area, the event draws hundreds of spectators from around the nation and continues to grow. As a result, area businesses have worked to accommodate the game’s visitors.

“It’s really a big part of this area’s rich music and sporting tradition,” said Nancy Seddinger, owner of Grand Strand Vacations, a North Myrtle Beach property rental firm. “It’s a great reason to get away for a few days, check out the South Carolina coast and hit the greens with friends.”

To help welcome tourists to the festivities, Grand Strand Vacations will offer golf packages that combine discounted multi-night stays with reduced course fees. They also are giving away two free nights at their ocean front condos and homes during four-day getaways in April. With more than 350 properties, the rental agency views the upcoming golf tournament as the official start of tourist season.

“Hey, what better way to roll into spring,” Seddinger said. “Monday After the Masters kind of kicks it all off. We’re just following their lead and creating our own star-caliber experience for guests, so to speak.”

Money raised from the Celebrity Pro-Am goes toward children’s education through the Hootie and the Blowfish Foundation, as well as helps fund the South Carolina Junior Golf Association.

Since its start in 1995, the tournament has raised more than $2 million for charity. While it initially took place in Columbia, S.C. and later Kiawah Island Resort, Grand Strand became the event’s home in 2003.

This year, like in years past, the golf outing will wrap up with a performance by Hootie & the Blowfish.

“It’s just a fun time,” Seddinger said. “If you like golf, it’s great. If you don’t know anything about golf, it’s still great. Everybody loves to celebrity watch – that’s the real draw.”

Artists and cultural buffs visiting North Myrtle Beach will discover plenty of opportunities to fan their creative flames, from a first-class museum to unique art events slated year-round.

The Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum Art Museum of Myrtle Beach, which opened its doors in 1997, offers outstanding examples of regional art, as well as innovative educational programs for cultural enthusiasts of every age. Housed in a gracious building dating back to 1924, ongoing exhibits include the Waccamaw Arts & Crafts Guild Collection; the Art Museum Permanent Collection; the Bishop Maps and Prints Collection; and the Barbara Burgess and John Dinkelspiel Collection of Southern Art.

Special exhibits change regularly and feature folk art, contemporary painting and juried pieces. Chief among these is the Waccamaw Arts and Craft Guild Annual Juried Exhibition, April 29-May 27. With works from both amateur and professional regional artists, the show offers an eclectic sampling of oils, water colors, mixed media, sculpture, ceramics, sculpture and more. Located at 3100 South Ocean Boulevard (across from Springmaid Pier), the art museum operates Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sunday 1-4 p.m. Although admission is free, donations are always welcome. Details: 843-238-2510 or www.myrtlebeachartmuseum.org.

Arts and craft shows in one form or another take place in the Grand Strand’s fine galleries, shops and boutiques pretty much throughout the year. Several of the larger events draw visitors from the entire southeast region.

Art in the Park, April 24-25 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., presents 60 artists from the East Coast and west to Tennessee, including painters, woodworkers, photographers, jewelers, fabric artists, glass and metal artisans, potters and sculptors. What’s more, about 20 of exhibitors hail from the Grand Strand area. Admission to this child- and pet-friendly celebration, located at The Market Common Valor Park, 4017 Deville Street, Myrtle Beach, is free. Details: JoAnne Utterback, 843 446-7471.

The 2010 Craftsmen’s Classic™ Arts & Crafts Festival takes place Aug. 6-8 at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center, 2101 N. Oak Street, Myrtle Beach. Showcasing original designs and work from hundreds of traditional and contemporary artists and crafters nationwide, this award-winning event also features exhibitor demonstrations throughout the weekend. One admission fee (to be determined) covers the entire three days, and children attend for free. Details: www.gilmoreshows.com/craftsmens_classics_myrtle_summer.shtml.

The 35th Annual Atalaya Arts and Crafts Festival happens Sept. 24-26 at Huntington Beach State Park near Murrells Inlet. With a focus on fine art, quality crafts and Low Country cuisine, the event features more than 100 exhibitors and live music from leading area performers. The daily festival admission fee is $6 for adults; a multi-day pass is $10; youngsters 15 years old and younger are free.  Details:  803-734-0450 and 843-237-4440; or www.scprt.com/state-park-service/atalayafestivalartists.aspx.

All of these and more are a brief drive from any of the more than 350 Grand Strand Vacations properties.

“More and more, our guests are learning that this area has an artistic personality with a true Southeast coastal character,” said Nancy Seddinger, owner of Grand Strand Vacations. “When they realize that so much is happening on the arts front, they can’t wait to get out to soak up the experience.”

While diverse art-related venues and events are a great way to enjoy the area’s cultural ambiance, Seddinger believes the natural beauty surrounding North Myrtle Beach and neighboring communities continues to provide the richest source of inspiration.

“We’re lucky to have so much art at our fingertips. But just step outside the front door of your Grand Strand Vacation property and take a look at the immaculate beaches, the dark blue ocean, all that sky,” she said. “Even the greatest painting can capture only a fraction of that artistry.”

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A tradition that goes back nearly five decades, the Canadian-American Days Festival kicks off March 13 in the Myrtle Beach area. The weeklong celebration puts out the proverbial “Welcome Mat” for neighbors to the north, as well as spring breakers from around the United States. Activities include sporting competitions, cultural happenings, concerts and more.

Aside from specially-planned events, local businesses also offer deals on entertainment and food throughout the seven-day extravaganza. Visitors get a virtual goodie bag of bargains from companies like Grand Strand Vacations. The property rental firm in North Myrtle Beach plans to give Canadian-American Days’ goers discounted getaway stays. With more than 350 luxury homes and condos positioned along the coast, the firm will greet travelers with the red-carpet treatment, providing a selection of specials. Grand Strand’s deals include an entire weekend getaway for as little as $200 and 10 percent off three nights or more.

“Canadian-American Days really showcases the giving-nature of this region,” said Nancy Seddinger, owner of Grand Strand Vacations. “We love when people come to our seaside community and share all there is to cherish. We’re very family-oriented, and this celebration epitomizes that quality.”

Some of this year’s Can-Am Days’ highlights include:

- The 22nd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival, taking place on March 13 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Main Street, North Myrtle Beach.

- The Carolina Opry Loves Canada, taking place from March 13 to 21 at 8 p.m. at The Carolina Opry, 8901 A Bus. 17 N., Myrtle Beach.

- South Strand Can-Am Reception, taking place on March 15 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Lakewood Conference Center, Surfside Beach.

- 3rd Annual Snowbird Games, taking place on March 16 from 12 to 3 p.m. at the Holiday Sands South, 2411 S. Ocean Blvd., Myrtle Beach.

- 2010 RBC Bank Canadian American Days Celebration Expo, taking place March 16 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center, Exhibit Hall C.

- 2010 Battle at the Beach Second Annual Canada vs. U.S.A. (Golf), taking place on March 18 at 11 a.m. at Pine Lakes Country Club, 5603 Grandaddy Drive, Myrtle Beach.

- Minigolf Tournament, taking place on March 20 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Hawaiian Rumble, 32104 Hwy. 17, North Myrtle Beach.

- Original Drifters, Carl Gardner’s Coasters, Herb Reed & the Platters, taking place on March 20 at 7 p.m. at the Alabama Theatre, 4750 Hwy. 17 S., North Myrtle Beach.

Canadian out-of-towners and other travelers alike can look forward to discounts at Ripley’s Aquarium, Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! Museum, Ripley’s Moving Theater, Ripley’s Haunted Adventure, and Ripley’s Marvelous Mirror Maze. In addition, major entertainment hubs like Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament, Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede and Alabama Theatre announced price cuts on certain shows.

“Can-Am has been going on since the early ‘60s and every year it just seems to get better,” Seddinger said. “It gives folks from other parts of the world a chance to relax beachside and take in a taste of the Carolina coast. We’re excited to see old friends again, and make new ones as well.”

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North Myrtle Beach has long been labeled a family-friendly vacation destination. But what many people may not realize is that it also boasts a pet-friendly distinction. In fact, the area recently made BringFido.com’s list of Favorite Pet-Friendly Destinations in the World.

There are numerous accommodations in the North Myrtle area that allow pets. Grand Strand Vacations, a property rental firm in North Myrtle Beach, started lighting the open sign for pets before it became popular with hotels, motels and resorts across the country. Many of the company’s more than 350 vacation homes, condos and villas welcome travelers’ four-legged companions.

“We want everyone to feel at home here in North Myrtle Beach – that includes man’s best friend,” said Grand Strand Vacations owner Nancy Seddinger, who is a dog owner.

Seddinger realizes that vacations can be cut short when owners have to leave their pets behind. A recent TripAdvisor survey of more than 1,100 participants found that 35 percent of pet owners take quicker trips – and 25 percent travel less – because they can’t take their pets.

Travel statistics from BringYourPet.com show how pet-friendly travel accommodations can change the duration of a vacation for pet owners – 63 percent said they would lengthen their visit if given the opportunity to travel with their pets.

At North Myrtle Beach, accommodating dogs goes beyond a place to stay:

- Dining/Shopping: Barefoot Landing has more than 100 retail shops and a handful of restaurants, some of which cater to man’s best friend. Wild Wing Café and T-Bonz Gill and Grill both allow dogs in their outdoor seating areas. Good-behaving dogs can be rewarded with a trip to Barefoot Landing’s pet boutique or pet bakery.

- Daycare: For owners who need a dog sitter while they play a round of golf or see a show, there are plenty of options. Pet Pizazz and Diva Dog are two doggie daycare providers that also offer grooming services.

- Life’s a Beach: While some beaches don’t allow dogs during the busy tourist season, North Myrtle Beach and its neighbors try to be accommodating to its human and canine visitors. Dogs are allowed on the beaches before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m. from May 15 through Sept. 15. During the rest of the year, there are no time restrictions. Dogs must be on a leash at all times, and owners must pick up any and all waste.

- Dog Park: For dogs who need to release some energy off-leash, there is the Myrtle Beach Barc Parc located off Kings Highway at Mallory Lake Drive. This 11-acre fenced park includes a large pond for swimming and a doggy shower. There are separate areas for big and small dogs.

- In Case of Emergency: Like their human owners, pets can get sick or injured while on vacation. If that happens, excellent care is provided around the clock at Animal Hospital of the Strand. Their phone number is (843) 445-9797.

After a day out on the town with Fido or Fluffy, the whole family can come back to their Grand Strand Vacations home, condo or villa and enjoy the rest of their stay at North Myrtle Beach.

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A wave of green will slam ashore at North Myrtle Beach on Saturday, March 13 when the coastal community holds its annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival. The Irish shindig starts at 9 a.m. and lasts until 4 p.m.

Festivities kick off with a parade down Main Street – a tradition that dates back some 22 years. A full day of drink, food, music and entertainment follows. Visitors can peruse more than 50 arts and crafts stands at the street fair, or simply indulge in a classic dish of smoky corned beef and cabbage. Either way, the free celebration assures an experience that embraces the rich culture of Ireland.

Dubbed by the North Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce as one of the area’s most unique festivals, the St. Patrick’s Day extravaganza will feature two performance stages, along with rides and games.

To accommodate the popularity surrounding the extravaganza, Grand Strand Vacations has announced plans to help visitors mold the perfect getaway package. Since the North Myrtle property rental firm fully anticipates a surge of tourists in shamrock shirts, it will offer more than 350 luxury homes and condos – some allowing pets – to travelers seeking a coastal pot of gold.

“It’s an exciting weekend around here,” said Nancy Seddinger, owner of Grand Strand Vacations. “You’d be surprised, but there’s a lot of Irish pride and nostalgia in this region.”

While most folks may not associate the North Myrtle area with four-leaf clovers, it actually serves as home to quite a few Irish-themed pubs and restaurants. This fact – along with amazing off-season rates on vacation rentals – makes St. Patrick’s a thriving holiday here.

“This time of year, it’s still cold and snowy most everywhere else,” Seddinger said. “What better time to take a break from it all? Kick back at an ocean-front home, grab a frosty mug, put on some green and celebrate with friends in style.”

With the sound of bagpipes filling the air and plenty of folks letting their hair down – green wigs that is – this year’s St. Patrick’s Day event likely will set record over previous festivals.

“It’s always big, never a dull moment when the leprechaun hats come out,” Seddinger said. “It’s a fun time – has been that way for the last two decades.”

The award-winning Grand Strand Vacations offers various seasonal discounts, as well as golf packages and special rates for holidays. To book a property for the upcoming festival or otherwise, please call 1-800-722-6278 or visit us at grandstrandvacations.com.

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North Myrtle Beach, SC (February 07, 2010) – With a TV commercial highlighting vacation rentals having aired in Sunday’s big game, football fans are discovering why renting vacation homes, condos, villas and cabins is a favorite choice for many versus hotels. Beyond the experiences families and friends build by staying in a home away from home in North Myrtle Beach, there are numerous benefits to choosing vacation rentals – sometimes in ways they’d least expect.

Whether trying vacation rentals for the first time or if you’re one of the nearly nine in 10 travelers who plan to rent again,* Grand Strand Vacations travel and vacation rental expert, Nancy Seddinger, Owner, offers the following planning tips and insights as a post-game update for visiting North Myrtle Beach:

·        KNOW YOUR DESTINATION: Whether you are a first-time traveler to North Myrtle Beach, SC or not, it’s recommended that you become familiar with the state’s special events, seasons and offerings. Here are some activities that guests find most enjoyable:

o   www.nmbevents.com

o   www.visitmyrtlebeach.com

·        LOOK FOR PACKAGES: During certain seasons, vacation rental packages can provide even more value, some with 2-bedrooms starting at just $45 per night, with all of the typical amenities of a resort and more. Visit www.grandstrandvacations.com to become familiar with various vacation rental types, reservation rates as well as travel specials available in North Myrtle Beach, SC.

·        AVOID AIRLINE BAGGAGE FEES: Most Grand Strand Vacations North Myrtle Beach, SC vacation rentals come equipped with washers and dryers, and Grand Strand Vacations also provides linens for rent. Travelers may choose to use these perks to pack less clothing and toiletries, avoiding commercial airlines’ baggage fees and restrictions.

·        USE SPACE TO YOUR ADVANTAGE:  Grand Strand Vacations vacation homes and condos can accommodate all types of arrangements, often costing less than a single hotel room by sleeping up to 36 guests in a house versus just a few.

·        SAVE ON DINING OUT: With full kitchens, and sometimes, outdoor grills, Grand Strand Vacations vacation rental travelers often make and store meals and snacks for less, including football favorites like homemade nachos during postseason trips. Use local ingredients and recipes for more memorable mealtimes, like Calabash Seafood. This also provides healthy travel options, cutting the amount of calories typically consumed while on vacation.

·        ASK ABOUT AFTER-HOURS SERVICE: When looking into any vacation rental accommodations, check to see if there is an accessible customer service number for emergency needs 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and for after-hour requests.

·        ENTERTAIN FOR FREE: Most of Grand Strand Vacations’ vacation homes, villa rentals and condos include amenities not found in hotels, some with private swimming pools, whirlpool spas, game rooms, fireplaces, DVD players, Internet access, game consoles and free movie and video game rentals, etc. Many are also in communities with access to fitness centers, hiking trails, parks, the beach, etc.

·        ASK ABOUT PARTNERSHIPS: Beyond the ability to live like a local in North Myrtle Beach, vacation rental guests can also take advantage of our relationships with activity providers, shops, restaurants, tour companies and more. Guests can also opt for concierge-type services, including golf tee-times, restaurant reservations and show tickets to name a few.

·        REMEMBER BIG EVENTS: Whether it’s for football championships or national Bowl games, concerts, baseball series’, basketball or other events, vacation rentals can save fans from the hassle of finding multiple hotel rooms during big events, and on the cost of multiple reservations.\

·        TRANSPORTATION: Other relationships to remember are those made between vacation rental managers and transportation providers, whether it’s rental cars, shuttle services, golf carts, bicycles or more. For example, Grand Strand Vacations can provide assistance with Golf Cart rentals, equipment rentals, strollers and wheel chairs.

To learn more about available vacation rental options in North Myrtle Beach, SC, visit www.grandstrandvacations.com as a comprehensive resource. Also visit www.nmbevents.com, which lists more ongoing events in the area.

For general answers to frequently asked questions about vacation rentals or for more information, visit http://www.DiscoverVacationHomes.com as an official category resource. Also connect with travelers and experts in the Facebook vacation rental community at http://www.facebook.com/DiscoverVacationHomes, and join the conversation on Twitter @GoVacationHomes.

Established in 1954, Grand Strand Vacations has been delighting vacationers for over 50 years. We have the experience and expertise to match you with a North Myrtle Beach vacation rental that meets or exceeds your expectations at any time of the year. Our office is staffed with friendly, experienced vacation rental specialists and sales agents. So call us today concerning our vacation rentals or Myrtle Beach golf packages and make sure you come spend some time with us in North Myrtle Beach.

Media Contact:
Grand Strand Vacations
503 Sea Mountain Hwy
North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
800-722-6278
info@grandstrandvacations.com

North Myrtle Beach accommodates brief visits from Jack Frost every now and then. However, these occasional “drop-ins” pale in comparison to the icy traveler’s extended stays farther up on the map.

With Punxsutawney Phil’s recent prediction of six more weeks of winter, the annual trend of northern travelers migrating south for warmer weather looks to continue. In fact, Grand Strand Vacations anticipates the number of winter visitors to spike twofold in the weeks ahead.

“As Valentine’s Day approaches, and with all of the wonderful weather we’ve been having; they’re coming,” said Nancy Seddinger, owner of Grand Strand Vacations. “People just need a break, and we’re in the business of helping people relax.”

Seddinger’s property rental agency usually sees a boost in popularity during this part of the shoulder season. Call it timing. Call it location. Call it good fortune. Either way, snow-weary folks flock in droves to the North Myrtle Beach area this part of the year and have done so for decades.

Many of these travelers turn to Grand Strand Vacations’ more than 350 properties for a home away from home. Over the decades, these guests have been dubbed by locals as snowbirds. They come seeking a taste of summer, even when the mercury freezes in their own backyard thermometers.

It only makes sense that people eye North Myrtle when frigid conditions take hold elsewhere. The mild winters on the South Carolina coast serve as an ideal catalyst for so many activities, from golf to shopping to Broadway-caliber shows.

Still, if hitting the links, embarking on an outlet mall bargain spree, or indulging in fine cuisine and entertainment don’t interest you, there are always miles of pristine beach. For all these reasons and more, the Myrtle Beach area makes the perfect winter territory for snowbirds wanting to escape dipping temperatures.

The area’s chamber of commerce often studies them in their natural vacationing habitat. Recent figures from the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce reveal that:

- 41 percent are first-time visitors
- 59 percent are Canadian
- 32 percent are American
- 96 percent say their primary purpose for visiting the area is a winter vacation
- 47 percent stay 1-2 months
- 21 percent stay 3-4 months
- 93 percent traveled to the Myrtle Beach area by car
- 53 percent stay in a condo
- 31 percent stay in a hotel/motel
- 80 percent are retired
- 29 percent are between 55-64 years of age
- 48 percent are between 65-74 years of age

No matter their age, where they come from or the reason for their vacation, the North Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce Convention and Visitors Bureau annually shows its appreciation for the economic boost by hosting a “We Love Our Snowbirds Reception.” This year’s event will be held from 2-4 p.m. at the chamber office (270 Hwy 17 North). The reception will include door prizes, giveaways and refreshments. For more information, call 1-877-332-2662.

Grand Strand Vacations also likes to give back to these loyal snowbirds by providing monthly winter rental deals. To inquire about these rates, call 1-800-722-6278.

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