Just Another (Organic) Day in Paradise

The islanders, who call Anna Maria Island, Florida, USA, their home, refer to each day there as “Just Another Day in Paradise,” or “JAPDIP.” With fewer than 2,000 year-round residents the tiny barrier island between the turquoise Gulf of Mexico and peninsular Florida boasts a seven-mile strip of pure white-sand beaches and a year-round average temperature of 26.6 degrees (C). It’s difficult not to fall in love with the slow pace of island life (40 km/h maximum speed limit) and everyone you see has a smile…all the time. It’s no wonder that many Europeans like Dr. Elmar Frank, a German dentist, rent or own homes there and visit several times a year. “Someday we hope to retire here,” Frank says. “We fell in love with the island.” (View Frank’s aerial video of the island)

And what’s not to love about an island that is also a bird sanctuary and home to Loggerhead turtle nests? In addition to enjoying perfect days and the warm Gulf waters, visitors can sample the island’s many superb restaurants that are increasingly serving fresh organic foods and wholesome natural meats. One of the newest and most unique restaurants is Poppo’s Taqueria. Family owned and operated, Poppo's delivers authentic San Francisco Mission style Mexican food using well sourced ingredients, like organic produce and antibiotic/hormone free meats, at a reasonable price. They also serve soft drinks with pure ingredients and no corn syrup as well as a number of domestic craft beers, including Omission, a delicious gluten-free beer. And speaking of gluten-free foods, most of the island’s restaurants also provide alternative gluten-limited meals. It only makes sense that the perfect island vacation spot, also serves delicious organic foods prepared in true gourmet style.