THE ALLURE OF FLORIDA’S GULF COAST has been known to entice Southerners to cross state lines more times than we can count. So it went for an Alabama couple with extended family when they encountered the perfect lot for a vacation home on State Road 30A in Alys Beach, a community designed in the New Urbanist fashion with tree-lined streets, sidewalks, walkable shops, and restaurants. Views of the surrounding nature preserve, including a lake dotted with native Bismarck palms, live oaks, and palmetto trees, solidified their decision to make Florida their getaway destination.
Once Domin