Statues of Ponce de Leon are numerous in St. Augustine. He is credited with discovering Florida in 1513, which he named “La Florida,” The Flower. Photos by Phyllis R. Sigal

Just pack your bags and all your belongings — lock, stock and barrel — right now, because it'll save you time later.


Later, as in after you’ve visited the quaint city of St. Augustine, Fla.


There is something about the town, a certain affection that wells up inside, as you enter the heart of St. Augustine. It swallows you up, and you want to be a part of it. And before you know it, you’re searching for real estate and a job.


   At the very least, you are planning a return trip before you’ve ever left.


What is it exactly? There is so much — the history, the shopping, the bed and breakfast inns, the full moon, the bay and its yachts, the ghost tales or maybe, it’s the truly welcoming people.


These welcoming folks were just like you and me, a few years ago — travelers in search of a holiday who never turned back. They remember the magnetism, the force that drew them to their new lives.

The  ATTRACTION:


     - Michael Hyatt, owner of Collage, a restaurant: Michael wanted the water, the beach, and he loved to fish. It was friends who convinced him to visit St. Augustine. “Within 24 hours we were looking for a place to live,” he said. They loved the history.