I’m always looking for something new and different in terms of travel and places to stay. I’ve had the good fortune to travel all over the world and have stayed in everything from private homes to simple motels to the 7-star Burj Al Arab in Dubai.
It’s all about what feels comfortable and where you can relax and unwind. When I was young, Florida was the very first vacation spot for my family and I. If you lived in Eastern Canada or the U.S. East Coast, Florida was it. Year after year. As time went by, the Caribbean and other warm destinations grew in popularity and Florida seemed forgotten. But it’s still there and better than ever. Florida still has great tried and true destinations (insert your favorite here) and has also added some great resort options. Relaxation is a short flight or drive away. Here’s a few:
The Jupiter Beach Resort – Jupiter, Florida
Jupiter is known as the “happiest resort town” in Florida with a little bit of everything in the area – beach, golf, shopping and more. Every Sunday is the Jupiter Green Market and there’s an annual Holiday Boat Parade on the Intercoastal Waterway followed with a celebration at the Riverwalk. The Jupiter Beach Resort features 1,000 feet of secluded beach, oceanfront pool, spa and numerous outdoor seating options. Located on the northern tip of Palm Beach County along the Atlantic Ocean coastline, this laid back hotel offers stylish amenities and first-class facilities just minutes from area attractions.
Sunset Key Guest Cottages – Key West, Florida
How does a luxury private cottage on a secluded 27-acre private island sound? If you are going to visit Key West, you should try staying at Sunset Key…at least once. This resort is on the most fabulous island in Key West, accessible only by private ferry. Lounge on a private white beach or private pool with full service and enjoy other Westin hotel features. There’s a host of seasonal events to enjoy including the Key West Food & Wine Festival and the Key West “Bight” Before Christmas. Key West is home to distinctive galleries, sidewalk cafés, pubs, and open-air bars and water-oriented activities of all kinds. Snorkeling, deep sea and backcountry fishing, kayak tours, sunset sailing, and more are all possible.
Edgewater Beach Resort – Naples, Florida
It’s hard to beat the white sand beaches of the Gulf of Mexico. Beyond its beaches, Naples also provides luxury shopping, great dining options and a vibrant arts and theatre scene. It is an historic museum destination and also features a new Performing Arts Centre and National Arts Festival in February. The Edgewater Beach Resort is ideally located on seven miles of Naples beach offering an ideal sun, sand and water holiday retreat. A former Waldorf property and Naples icon, the Edgewater blends all-suite accommodation, casual luxury and a boutique hotel where service delivers. The Coast Restaurant, located in the hotel, draws rave reviews and is one of Naples best kept secrets. The views of the pools, beach and gulf from the suite are breathtaking and create an atmosphere of relaxation and serenity.
A nice place to stay and some sun and sand in an interesting town and it’s back to Florida for me…
Mark's Travel Journal 