[Sunroof]

We went to Fernadina several weeks ago and its a decent commute from Jacksonville even via the St. John's River ferry you can catch at Mayport.

Given a choice I would check out St. Mary's in Georgia just up I-95 past Woodbine. St. Mary's was an old fishing village that is known now as the gateway to Cumberland Island (via ferry). The older part of town is really neat and homes are reasonable in town. The big deal is KingsBay Submarine base that is supported by a growing community all off I-95. Sorry, accessing any beach is a drive, but the cost of living is less, the weather is no different than north Florida, the old Gilman Papermill is closed and the air is clean and the livin good. Savannah is north and Jacksonville south. If you are a fisherman its a paradise! Ramps in town and the intracoastal waterway close by.

I lived in St. Augustine (Commanchee Cove Marina) and at Green Cove Springs back in the 1980's. My wife and I love St. Augustine, but the cost of housing is still way too high!! Jacksonville to me was always a mixed bag of chaos! The nicer housing spots are south along the St. John's River, out toward the beach or Sawgrass area. Jax. is a huge city with a small town mentality................

Check out south Georgia and St. Mary's or cruise up to St. Simon's Island. Both are worth a visit.

Bob

PS. That cigar store is no longer open in St. Augustine. You have to enjoy a smoke at Stoogies!