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Travel Briefs - Sept. 2006

? Destin-based Sterling Cos. has unveiled plans for C, a Panama City Beach resort that will feature 1,700 second homes and vacation rentals as well as eight passenger sky gondolas, a water park, a private club, retail stores, restaurants and a pedestrian tunnel under Front Beach Road. Construction on the 33-acre community will start later this year with occupancy by late 2008 or early 2009.

? The new Florida Discovery Bicycle Center (floridabicycle.org/discovery) in Lake Helen plans to introduce a training and touring program in November that is the first of its kind in Florida. It combines adult bicycle safety training and touring with vacation packages that include sightseeing along the St. Johns River region of western Volusia County. Trips incorporate wildlife sightings, nature explorations, storytellers, musicians and other entertainment. The program is sponsored by the Florida Bicycle Association, the River of Lakes Heritage Corridor and Lake Helen.

? The Don CeSar Beach Resort on St. Pete Beach and Carillon Executive Health in St. Petersburg are offering a special through September for couples to improve both their health and wellbeing. The "Heart & Soul Getaway" package starts at $3,900 for the weekend and includes a two-night stay at the Loew's-branded hotel, spa treatments, dinner, breakfast, personal fitness training and Town Car service to a couples medical evaluation and lifestyle assessment.