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An Arty Escape for Women Only in Historic St. Augustine

June 9, 2003 -- You could be one of 75 women taking part in the third annual Women's Escape to the Inns and Arts of St. Augustine, the Florida city that stakes its claim as America's oldest town. All you need is a love of the arts and some free time in the fall when the event takes place.

The program runs September 21 to 24, 2003 when 26 bed and breakfast inns launch a fascinating program celebrating creativity. Program fees are $125. Lodgings in a local B&B are extra, and prices vary per property. One lucky lady, however, could have all costs waived (except for transportation to and from St. Augustine) if she's the winner of an essay contest. See below for details.

St. Augustine is laying on two days of exploring the methods and mediums of its finest artists, through workshops, exhibits, discussions and gallery hopping.

The $125 package includes a wine tasting reception at the San Sebastian Winery, featuring the First Coast Opera singing Broadway and light opera tunes. Then there's lunch at the old City House Inn & Restaurant (c.1873), winner of the 2003 Taste of St. Augustine People's Choice Award.

Also included is a walking ghost tour through the landmark houses, mysterious doorways and cemeteries through the city along its winding brick-paved streets and a farewell dinner at Raintree, one of the town's favorite restaurants. Best yet might be a private performance of Paul Rudnick's I Hate Hamlet at The Limelight Theater, followed by a dessert reception prepared by the Historic Inns innkeepers.

If you are feeling really creative, you might want to enter the program's short story contest to win the Grand Prize. There's a "best creative woman story" (500 words or less), with a deadline for submissions of September 1, 2003. The Grand Prize is a free three-night stay at the Alexander Homestead (c. 1888) and the $125 Women's Escape Package. (If you want to bring a guest to share the winner's room, you pay an additional $125 for a second package, no additional person room charge). Send stories to St. Augustine Historic Inns, PO Box 5268, St. Augustine FL 32082-5268.

Room charges vary at the 26 inns, but, for example, the Alexander Homestead (four rooms) charges between $135 and $185 per room per night, breakfast included.

For reservations, phone 904/824-5214 and ask for Ken Cerotzke. For more information, visit www.staugustineinns.com.


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