I'm beginning to think I'm going to have to construct some sort of retaining wall. I don't want the deck to look like it's built on a wall, but the deck will be at least 8' wide all around, so a retaining wall about 5' from the pool will be OK. The wall will also provide excellent support for the deck.

From a longevity point of view, I'd rather have an in-ground that needs a retaining wall than an above-ground which is partially buried. I don't think most above ground pools could take the underground environment. Also, I see that the variety if shapes is much, much greater for the in-ground. After more research, I definitely think the polymer panels are better for Florida.

Anyone want to take a shot at convincing me that a gunite pool would be so much better than a liner pool that it's worth the extra money? Remember, I've had a couple of concrete pools and have had to refinish the interior about as often as a liner has to be replaced, and I've had losts of experience battling the calcium loss problems.