No longer just for spring break or the young and the restless, Fort Lauderdale is a gem along the Gold Coast of Florida. With upscale neighborhoods, mega yachts docked in front of waterfront mansions, long sunny beaches, lush parks, and waterside activities of all kinds, the diversions are endless. Canals weave in and out of neighborhoods giving cause for the description, the Venice of America.
EXile yourself in the Las Olas neighborhood at the elegant Riverside Hotel, where old world charm, service, and location combine to nurture you in tropical style. (800-325-3280, 620 E Las Olas Blvd., www.riversidehotel.com) Located nearby are parks, museums, galleries, and riverfront views to help you unwind and reflect. When you’re ready to EXplore, just stroll down Las Olas Boulevard. Wander into the enticing boutiques, specialty stores, cafes, shops, and clubs like O’Hara’s, Tommy Bahamas, Kilwins, Bohemian Style, The Floridian, PLUSH, Café Europa, and Lauderdale Lifestyle. (www.lasolasboulevard.com) Or better still catch the Water Taxi, purchasing an all day pass, to glide you through the numerous waterways, viewing impressive mansions of the rich and famous as your captain provides anecdotes. You’ll also get closer to the impressive mega yachts from this vantagepoint. Stop off at one of the many destinations to discover parks, shops, beaches, and restaurants. (954-467-6677, www.watertaxi.com/FortLauderdale/FLLMap.Asp) If “shop ‘til you drop” is your urge take your credit card to the Galleria Mall where you’ll find numerous specialty shops anchored by Neiman Marcus, Saks, Macy’s, and Dillards. Don’t miss the Palm Court or one of the numerous restaurants nearby when you need to rest weary feet. (954-537-9234, 2244 E Sunrise Blvd, www.galleriamall-fl.com)
To EXorcise any lingering demons of the past lounge on the beach with a good mystery novel at Vista Park, located in a small private neighborhood tucked away along Ft. Lauderdale‘s sandy stretch of beaches. Locals come here for the shaded benches that overlook the ocean. When you need a respite from reading, hunt for shells, or take a brisk walk. The beach stretches as far as the eye can see. Play in the ocean waves to cool off. (954-828-PARK, 2880 N Atlantic Blvd.) If laps are more to your liking, visit the Ft. Lauderdale Aquatic Complex, the home of the International Swimming Hall of Fame. Adults-only times are available at the huge pools. (954-828-4580, www.ci.ft.lauderdale.fl.us) Don’t swim but always wanted to learn or improve your stroke? Arrange to take private lessons from Jack Nelson’s Swimming School. (954-764-4822, www.jnss.net)
Now that you’ve been out and about, you may be ready to rejuvenate and EXhale with a day at one of the numerous world famous spas located in the area. One of my favorites is The Spa at the Marriott Harbor Beach. (866-3030-SPA, www.marriottharborbeach.com) Try the energy balancing seaweed body wrap and a one-hour massage afterwards. Continue the healing process with quiet time in a comfortable lounge chair, under an umbrella around the private outdoor spa pool, or head to a cabana on the private beach. Walk the labyrinth, use the facilities, or take one of the many classes offered daily.
