LauderBlog
Apr 26: Under the Beautiful Sea
Posted On: April 26, 2006 4:57 PM
Posted By: LauderBLOGGER
Related Subjects: Greater Fort Lauderdale
Ocean Fest 2006 at the Fort Lauderdale beach on Saturday was a really nice event for divers and potential divers. Or even former divers. That would be me. I have a photo on my office wall showing me handfeeding a six-foot shark. Long story, but basically this was for a piece I wrote several years ago for USA Weekend magazine. And I miss scuba diving. I was certified in high school but lost touch with the sport. Ocean Fest has rekindled my inner sea-explorer.
So I’m seriously thinking about getting recertified and where better to do that than here in the Fort Lauderdale area? There are dive shops, dive boats, dive trips. Places to buy equipment, places to rent equipment, places to, yes, get your certification. Among the big outfits is Pro Dive International, which offers four-hour excursions to coral reefs and underwater wrecks. You can scuba or snorkel, as you prefer. Pro Dive is in Fort Lauderdale but other good choices include Dixie Divers in Deerfield Beach, Parrot Island Scuba Adventures or South Florida Diving Headquarters, both in Pompano Beach. All of these shops offer two-for-one specials this summer, so ask for details.
As mentioned in a previous blog, Fort Lauderdale and environs provide divers with some fairly amazing underwater spots, including the nation’s most comprehensive artificial reef system and one of the continental US’s few living reefs reachable from shore. And in a couple months, the mini-lobster season adds another reason to strap on the tanks.
For two days in July (July 26 and 27 to be exact), sport divers have the only chance to scoop up their limit of savory lobsters before the commercial traps are set. Apparently these critters aren’t the smartest on the planet and are snatched up pretty easily. I’m also told that this year should produce some larger-than-usual specimens because of environmental conditions.
But what if you would like to see the sea, without getting in it? Hey, no problem at all. How about a glassbottom boat trip? They’re really fun. The whole bottom of the boat is transparent and it’s a bit like snorkeling without the wet. You skim along the surface, looking at the life and colors and beauty beneath. Again, Pro Dive is among the shops that can hook you up with a glassbottom sea tour.
And if even that seems a bit too adventurous, there’s still another alternative. The Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale has one of those great 3D IMAX theaters with just the movie for you. Called Deep Sea 3D, this flick takes you on a very real underwater adventure with some dangerous creatures in some spectacular waters. All without any need to even step into a boat. Lots of options for almost anybody to find out more about the life of the ocean, whether you’re adventurous or not.
So I’m seriously thinking about getting recertified and where better to do that than here in the Fort Lauderdale area? There are dive shops, dive boats, dive trips. Places to buy equipment, places to rent equipment, places to, yes, get your certification. Among the big outfits is Pro Dive International, which offers four-hour excursions to coral reefs and underwater wrecks. You can scuba or snorkel, as you prefer. Pro Dive is in Fort Lauderdale but other good choices include Dixie Divers in Deerfield Beach, Parrot Island Scuba Adventures or South Florida Diving Headquarters, both in Pompano Beach. All of these shops offer two-for-one specials this summer, so ask for details.
As mentioned in a previous blog, Fort Lauderdale and environs provide divers with some fairly amazing underwater spots, including the nation’s most comprehensive artificial reef system and one of the continental US’s few living reefs reachable from shore. And in a couple months, the mini-lobster season adds another reason to strap on the tanks.
For two days in July (July 26 and 27 to be exact), sport divers have the only chance to scoop up their limit of savory lobsters before the commercial traps are set. Apparently these critters aren’t the smartest on the planet and are snatched up pretty easily. I’m also told that this year should produce some larger-than-usual specimens because of environmental conditions.
But what if you would like to see the sea, without getting in it? Hey, no problem at all. How about a glassbottom boat trip? They’re really fun. The whole bottom of the boat is transparent and it’s a bit like snorkeling without the wet. You skim along the surface, looking at the life and colors and beauty beneath. Again, Pro Dive is among the shops that can hook you up with a glassbottom sea tour.
And if even that seems a bit too adventurous, there’s still another alternative. The Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale has one of those great 3D IMAX theaters with just the movie for you. Called Deep Sea 3D, this flick takes you on a very real underwater adventure with some dangerous creatures in some spectacular waters. All without any need to even step into a boat. Lots of options for almost anybody to find out more about the life of the ocean, whether you’re adventurous or not.
RSSApr 24: No Jive, Just Jazz
Posted On: April 24, 2006 12:15 PM
Posted By: LauderBLOGGER
Related Subjects: Greater Fort Lauderdale
In today’s America, it’s not always easy to find quality live jazz. I’m talkin’ real jazz here, baby, not the elevator-jive version that passes so often for “jazz” these days. Greater Fort Lauderdale has a few spots where you can catch some good solo jazz musicians or small combos, including Timpano’s on Las Olas. But America’s most important musical contribution is not widely available in live performances around most of the US of A. Lots of other countries, yes, but not here.
That’s why jazz lovers should be grateful for a monthly series of concerts at the Fort Lauderdale Museum of Art. Called Jazz Impressions, the shows are sponsored by a group known as South Florida Jazz. Believe me, there’s nothing jive about this jazz, unless someone is working jump-and-jive licks into their sax solo or something. This is genuine jazz as it’s supposed to be played, offered up by top jazz musicians. Often, the evening’s headliner is a major name in the jazz world, such as Gary Burton or Larry Coryell.
So it’s with regret that I have to admit I missed this last weekend’s concert. I had planned to go and wanted to go but, as we all love to say, “something came up.” Ah well … My loss. The program featured Silvano Monasterios, a Venezuelan-born pianist and composer, along with virtuoso bassist Mark Egan and drummer Paul Wertico, a seven-time Grammy winner from Chicago. Sounds good, eh? I bet it was!
That said, I have to add that I’ve attended a number of the Jazz Impressions shows over the past couple of years and each one has been different from the others and always excellent. I’ve never been disappointed in the performances. The most recent concert I caught was just last month, with singer Roseanna Vitro, considered a cultural ambassador who performs concerts all over the world. She was superb and so was her trio.
Tickets are very reasonable by today’s standards, only $30 per. The shows are divided into two sets and everyone seems to leave feeling they got more than their money’s worth. Plus, there’s a new twist before the music starts, if you’re interested. This year, South Florida Jazz is giving the audience a “Meet the Musician” segment, allowing jazz fans to ask the performers some questions. It’s a great way to interact with these amazing players and to better understand the jazz you’re about to hear.
There are two more shows before the series takes a short summer hiatus. Next up, the Javon Jackson Quartet, with hot tenor saxaphonist Javon Jackson kicking up some cutting edge jazz. That’s on May 20. The season’s final show is a big one, indeed featuring jazz giant Larry Coryell, a guitarist who helped pioneer the rock-jazz fusion movement. Coryell has recorded some 70 albums and will turn up the volume at the Museum of Art on June 17. All shows in the series start at 8 p.m., with the “Meet the Musicians” segments beginning at 7:30.
There – I’ve told you about it. Now I won’t feel so guilty for missing this Saturday’s show. If you enjoy jazz, or are just learning to enjoy it, you really should give this concert series a go. This isn’t no jive I’m tellin’ ya now, man. Just the real lowdown about some very real jazz right here in Fort Lauderdale.
That’s why jazz lovers should be grateful for a monthly series of concerts at the Fort Lauderdale Museum of Art. Called Jazz Impressions, the shows are sponsored by a group known as South Florida Jazz. Believe me, there’s nothing jive about this jazz, unless someone is working jump-and-jive licks into their sax solo or something. This is genuine jazz as it’s supposed to be played, offered up by top jazz musicians. Often, the evening’s headliner is a major name in the jazz world, such as Gary Burton or Larry Coryell.
So it’s with regret that I have to admit I missed this last weekend’s concert. I had planned to go and wanted to go but, as we all love to say, “something came up.” Ah well … My loss. The program featured Silvano Monasterios, a Venezuelan-born pianist and composer, along with virtuoso bassist Mark Egan and drummer Paul Wertico, a seven-time Grammy winner from Chicago. Sounds good, eh? I bet it was!
That said, I have to add that I’ve attended a number of the Jazz Impressions shows over the past couple of years and each one has been different from the others and always excellent. I’ve never been disappointed in the performances. The most recent concert I caught was just last month, with singer Roseanna Vitro, considered a cultural ambassador who performs concerts all over the world. She was superb and so was her trio.
Tickets are very reasonable by today’s standards, only $30 per. The shows are divided into two sets and everyone seems to leave feeling they got more than their money’s worth. Plus, there’s a new twist before the music starts, if you’re interested. This year, South Florida Jazz is giving the audience a “Meet the Musician” segment, allowing jazz fans to ask the performers some questions. It’s a great way to interact with these amazing players and to better understand the jazz you’re about to hear.
There are two more shows before the series takes a short summer hiatus. Next up, the Javon Jackson Quartet, with hot tenor saxaphonist Javon Jackson kicking up some cutting edge jazz. That’s on May 20. The season’s final show is a big one, indeed featuring jazz giant Larry Coryell, a guitarist who helped pioneer the rock-jazz fusion movement. Coryell has recorded some 70 albums and will turn up the volume at the Museum of Art on June 17. All shows in the series start at 8 p.m., with the “Meet the Musicians” segments beginning at 7:30.
There – I’ve told you about it. Now I won’t feel so guilty for missing this Saturday’s show. If you enjoy jazz, or are just learning to enjoy it, you really should give this concert series a go. This isn’t no jive I’m tellin’ ya now, man. Just the real lowdown about some very real jazz right here in Fort Lauderdale.
Apr 21: By the Beautiful Sea
Posted On: April 21, 2006 11:47 AM
Posted By: LauderBLOGGER
Related Subjects: Greater Fort Lauderdale
I’ve just now returned from my morning meditation by the sea. And that got me thinking about how much I’ve enjoyed “discovering” something that was always there during my first 17 years living here. Why did it take me so long to become a frequent visitor to this area’s greatest treasure?
No matter where in Florida you go, of course, you can’t get very far from the sea. That’s especially true in South Florida. But how many of us even head to the beach very often, much less explore the world that lies under the ocean? This weekend, we’ve all got a chance to change that.
Ocean Fest 2006 will make it easy for anyone to begin learning how to see below the waves. Starting today through Sunday, this seaside extravaganza at Fort Lauderdale’s South Beach Park will host more than 200 exhibitors spread across the sand. Wear your bathing suit. This is not only the largest dive trade show ever held in South Florida, but it also boasts a special twist: You’ll have the opportunity to try scuba diving. For free.
Ocean Fest 2006 is the only dive festival in the nation that allows people to actually get into, and under, the water themselves. Now, that’s really interactive. So if you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to scuba dive, or just to snorkel, head to the Fort Lauderdale beach. They’ve set up a special pool to give safe, simple lessons to first-timers on both Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
But even if diving or snorkeling aren’t your things, Ocean Fest is going to be a terrific beach party for anyone. There will be music and lots of Bahamian and Caribbean treats to enjoy. Conch fritters, conch chowder and the whole deal. And, let’s be honest here, there should be lots of attractive people of both sexes wandering around in swimsuits. This is Fort Lauderdale, after all. The weather is expected to be the usual warm-dry-and-sunny. I’ll be heading to the festival, probably on Saturday.
This event also reminds me what a dive mecca Fort Lauderdale really is. I remember reading once that a huge percentage of active divers in the U.S. make an annual pilgrimage to South Florida. There’s a good reason for this. And there are lots of good reasons for divers to focus on the reefs off greater Fort Lauderdale. For one thing, Broward County has the most comprehensive artificial reef system in the country. For another, it has one of the only living reefs that you can reach from shore in the continental U.S.
Have fun at Ocean Fest. If you see me, say hello (the link on my blogger’s bio page will take you to my own website, where I have my picture posted) …. And if for any reason I don’t answer your friendly greeting right away, give me a moment. Chances are my mouth is only full of conch chowder.
No matter where in Florida you go, of course, you can’t get very far from the sea. That’s especially true in South Florida. But how many of us even head to the beach very often, much less explore the world that lies under the ocean? This weekend, we’ve all got a chance to change that.
Ocean Fest 2006 will make it easy for anyone to begin learning how to see below the waves. Starting today through Sunday, this seaside extravaganza at Fort Lauderdale’s South Beach Park will host more than 200 exhibitors spread across the sand. Wear your bathing suit. This is not only the largest dive trade show ever held in South Florida, but it also boasts a special twist: You’ll have the opportunity to try scuba diving. For free.
Ocean Fest 2006 is the only dive festival in the nation that allows people to actually get into, and under, the water themselves. Now, that’s really interactive. So if you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to scuba dive, or just to snorkel, head to the Fort Lauderdale beach. They’ve set up a special pool to give safe, simple lessons to first-timers on both Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
But even if diving or snorkeling aren’t your things, Ocean Fest is going to be a terrific beach party for anyone. There will be music and lots of Bahamian and Caribbean treats to enjoy. Conch fritters, conch chowder and the whole deal. And, let’s be honest here, there should be lots of attractive people of both sexes wandering around in swimsuits. This is Fort Lauderdale, after all. The weather is expected to be the usual warm-dry-and-sunny. I’ll be heading to the festival, probably on Saturday.
This event also reminds me what a dive mecca Fort Lauderdale really is. I remember reading once that a huge percentage of active divers in the U.S. make an annual pilgrimage to South Florida. There’s a good reason for this. And there are lots of good reasons for divers to focus on the reefs off greater Fort Lauderdale. For one thing, Broward County has the most comprehensive artificial reef system in the country. For another, it has one of the only living reefs that you can reach from shore in the continental U.S.
Have fun at Ocean Fest. If you see me, say hello (the link on my blogger’s bio page will take you to my own website, where I have my picture posted) …. And if for any reason I don’t answer your friendly greeting right away, give me a moment. Chances are my mouth is only full of conch chowder.
Apr 17: A Very Grateful Palate
Posted On: April 17, 2006 7:15 PM
Posted By: LauderBLOGGER
Related Subjects: Greater Fort Lauderdale
I found a great new place for lunch, located on the 17th Street Causeway not far from my home. This is a spot for lunch and/or an early dinner, either take out or sit down. It’s called the Grateful Palate, owned by an unusually bright and charming young couple, Aaron and Amanda Heady. These are the kind of folks you want to see succeed – knowledgeable, hard-working, passionate about what they do. And what they do is give their customers some of the most unusual, quality-ingredient food anywhere in South Florida. Want an example? How about this – ever had a hamburger made from genuine Kobe beef? This is a Japanese delicacy of legendary taste. The Grateful Palate has the real thing. Or you can buy wild game, including ostrich, deer, boar, rabbit, buffalo. If you’ve never had a buffalo burger or steak, you’re in for a treat. Honestly, I prefer good buffalo to beef.
But don’t get the idea that things here are mostly for uncommon tastes and so probably cost too much for just an everyday kind of meal. If that were true, would I be going there? Remember, I got divorced last year and money still is often tight for me. So yes, you can walk away with a great sandwich or salad for well under $10. Maybe Spanish Serrano ham or curried chicken salad or Niman Ranch roast beef or turkey pesto … All excellent, large and made with the freshest ingredients.
Aaron and Amanda are very proud of the ingredients in their food, actually. And they’re working hard to establish a reputation for whipping those top ingredients into fine meals.
To help do this, the Grateful Palate now offers a terrific chef’s night every Wednesday for only $15. They seat just 50 people, so call ahead for reservations. They bring in a chef from a high-end local restaurant or yacht and let him or her basically just go wild, creating whatever dishes sound especially appealing and exciting that evening. This past Wednesday, Chef Gavin Opie, winner of several international cooking contests, created a menu that included freshly shucked oysters in Asian dressing and vodka jelly; tuna sashimi with crab spring roll, avocado and chile oil; and a salami and red wine risotto. Next week, French pastry chef Luc Jouan will put together a seven-course dessert tasting that includes, get this – chocolate soup with fruit skewers. Yum!
Thursdays are a special cheese night, with brie and goat’s milk and other soft French cheeses on the menu tonight, as I write this. They want to be like the classic European cheese and meat shops.
The store can be a little hard to find, on the north side of the 17th Street Causeway in one of those small strip shopping centers, just east of Federal Highway. Call them at 954-467-1998 for directions if you get lost or to find out their hours. They also have a new website at www.TwoBottles.com. However you find this place, it’s definitely worth the effort … for lunch. Or dinner!
But don’t get the idea that things here are mostly for uncommon tastes and so probably cost too much for just an everyday kind of meal. If that were true, would I be going there? Remember, I got divorced last year and money still is often tight for me. So yes, you can walk away with a great sandwich or salad for well under $10. Maybe Spanish Serrano ham or curried chicken salad or Niman Ranch roast beef or turkey pesto … All excellent, large and made with the freshest ingredients.
Aaron and Amanda are very proud of the ingredients in their food, actually. And they’re working hard to establish a reputation for whipping those top ingredients into fine meals.
To help do this, the Grateful Palate now offers a terrific chef’s night every Wednesday for only $15. They seat just 50 people, so call ahead for reservations. They bring in a chef from a high-end local restaurant or yacht and let him or her basically just go wild, creating whatever dishes sound especially appealing and exciting that evening. This past Wednesday, Chef Gavin Opie, winner of several international cooking contests, created a menu that included freshly shucked oysters in Asian dressing and vodka jelly; tuna sashimi with crab spring roll, avocado and chile oil; and a salami and red wine risotto. Next week, French pastry chef Luc Jouan will put together a seven-course dessert tasting that includes, get this – chocolate soup with fruit skewers. Yum!
Thursdays are a special cheese night, with brie and goat’s milk and other soft French cheeses on the menu tonight, as I write this. They want to be like the classic European cheese and meat shops.
The store can be a little hard to find, on the north side of the 17th Street Causeway in one of those small strip shopping centers, just east of Federal Highway. Call them at 954-467-1998 for directions if you get lost or to find out their hours. They also have a new website at www.TwoBottles.com. However you find this place, it’s definitely worth the effort … for lunch. Or dinner!
April 12: Long Live The King
Posted On: April 12, 2006 12:02 PM
Posted By: LauderBLOGGER
Related Subjects: Greater Fort Lauderdale
I know at this point I’m a little behind the times and “Tut-Mania” as we know it is dying down a bit, but I’d like to bring it into focus again if I could.
You all already know that I am a bit of a procrastinator, so it should come as no surprise that I’ve waited to see the King Tut exhibit until two weeks before its departure. Nonetheless…better late than never, and I’d like to share my thoughts.
Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs. It sounds enticing, doesn’t it? Well the great thing about this exhibit is that it really lives up to such a grandiose name. I must admit I didn’t know much about the Boy King (other than that he was a boy king) until visiting the exhibit, but I learned quite a bit throughout the evening.
Now that I’m a Tut (and museum) connoisseur, I’ll give you a few tips and tidbits earned through experience.
I would suggest doing as I did: splurge and pay the seven bucks for the audio gear that they optionally provide for you. It’s very informative and ties everything together quite nicely. It also includes some additional information that you can choose to listen or not listen to, such as how the mummification process works. You know, the good stuff.
Also, if your schedule permits, try to go later on in the day. I’m talking late afternoon to nighttime. I went last night at 8:30 pm, and it was wonderful. There’s a few reasons why this is so. First of all, it’s less crowded. Always a plus. Second of all, the museum is so pretty at night, and so are its surroundings. The lights of Riverfront are just across the street, and the shops and restaurants of Las Olas are only a few blocks down.
I had never been to the museum before, and I found it to be larger than it seems from its façade. And the exhibit made great use of its space, with each room changing color and lighting to fit the timeline of ancient Egypt.
I don’t want to give too much away…after all, I know there’s plenty of you out there who still have not gotten the chance to experience this firsthand. I’ll just say this: it is completely worthwhile. Take the kids, take your significant other, take your parents, go with friends…every age and type of person you could think of was walking through the exhibit, same as I, with the common thirst for knowledge and curiosity of a culture far different from our own.
But time is of the essence, there are only 12 more days until the Boy King moves on to Chicago. I think we can all agree that it would be silly not to take advantage of the fact that an exhibit that will only be in four cities throughout the country is in our own backyard. You wouldn’t want to dishonor a king, now, would you?
So hurry up, buy your tickets, and see what all the “Tut-Mania” is really all about for yourself. I promise you won’t be disappointed.
Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs ends April 23. For tickets, call 877-TUT-TKTS. For more information, visit the Museum of Art Fort Lauderdale at www.moafl.org or call (954) 525-5500.
You all already know that I am a bit of a procrastinator, so it should come as no surprise that I’ve waited to see the King Tut exhibit until two weeks before its departure. Nonetheless…better late than never, and I’d like to share my thoughts.
Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs. It sounds enticing, doesn’t it? Well the great thing about this exhibit is that it really lives up to such a grandiose name. I must admit I didn’t know much about the Boy King (other than that he was a boy king) until visiting the exhibit, but I learned quite a bit throughout the evening.
Now that I’m a Tut (and museum) connoisseur, I’ll give you a few tips and tidbits earned through experience.
I would suggest doing as I did: splurge and pay the seven bucks for the audio gear that they optionally provide for you. It’s very informative and ties everything together quite nicely. It also includes some additional information that you can choose to listen or not listen to, such as how the mummification process works. You know, the good stuff.
Also, if your schedule permits, try to go later on in the day. I’m talking late afternoon to nighttime. I went last night at 8:30 pm, and it was wonderful. There’s a few reasons why this is so. First of all, it’s less crowded. Always a plus. Second of all, the museum is so pretty at night, and so are its surroundings. The lights of Riverfront are just across the street, and the shops and restaurants of Las Olas are only a few blocks down.
I had never been to the museum before, and I found it to be larger than it seems from its façade. And the exhibit made great use of its space, with each room changing color and lighting to fit the timeline of ancient Egypt.
I don’t want to give too much away…after all, I know there’s plenty of you out there who still have not gotten the chance to experience this firsthand. I’ll just say this: it is completely worthwhile. Take the kids, take your significant other, take your parents, go with friends…every age and type of person you could think of was walking through the exhibit, same as I, with the common thirst for knowledge and curiosity of a culture far different from our own.
But time is of the essence, there are only 12 more days until the Boy King moves on to Chicago. I think we can all agree that it would be silly not to take advantage of the fact that an exhibit that will only be in four cities throughout the country is in our own backyard. You wouldn’t want to dishonor a king, now, would you?
So hurry up, buy your tickets, and see what all the “Tut-Mania” is really all about for yourself. I promise you won’t be disappointed.
Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs ends April 23. For tickets, call 877-TUT-TKTS. For more information, visit the Museum of Art Fort Lauderdale at www.moafl.org or call (954) 525-5500.
Apr 11: Convenient Convention
Posted On: April 11, 2006 2:36 PM
Posted By: LauderBLOGGER
Related Subjects: Greater Fort Lauderdale
I spent a fair number of hours over the weekend at the Broward Convention Center. I was there for the big annual gathering of cruise industry professionals at the Cruise Lines International Association, or CLIA, convention. This experience reminded me of a couple of interesting things. First, what a terrific convention center it really is. Second, how important Fort Lauderdale is to the cruise business. If you’re not around the building or the ships for a while, it’s easy to forget that.
The Broward Convention Center is a place I find pleasant and inviting. Each time I go there, the sea-themed décor and large openness of the structure make me want to stay longer than I might have planned. I guess that’s why I hung out as long as I did on both Saturday and Monday, though I really didn’t have to go at all. As a former cruise columnist for Budget Travel magazine, I have friends in the industry and a strong feeling for the value of cruising. So I was interested to catch up on the latest. But the event also gave me a good excuse to visit the convention center again.
It’s a simple place to park, for the most part, and the entrances from the parking lot to the convention center are easy to use. The whole building is convenient, with well-placed escalators and elevators and bathrooms.
And it has one of the best fountains anywhere in Florida. Have you seen this thing? I’ve always loved it. The 35-foot bronze sculpture depicts a sailfish in three stages of leaping from the water: With a fin barely breaking the waves, with the fish’s head poking through, and with the entire grand sailfish in full jump over the ocean. To me, it’s really a beautiful piece and I don’t think enough people who visit Fort Lauderdale find it, unless they happen to be at a convention.
Several weeks ago, I wrote about all the cruise ships that pack Port Everglades all week long, especially on the weekends. And about all the great things for vacationers to do in this area before and after their cruise. This community is a vital link in the thriving cruise business and all of the travel agents, cruise line professionals and media members I talked with in the past few days seemed happy to converge here for the big conference. And why not? Where else can you hold a convention in a place with great views of the Intracoastal Waterway and Port Everglades and cruise ships … and a very remarkable bronze sailfish, caught permanently in mid-air?
The Broward Convention Center is a place I find pleasant and inviting. Each time I go there, the sea-themed décor and large openness of the structure make me want to stay longer than I might have planned. I guess that’s why I hung out as long as I did on both Saturday and Monday, though I really didn’t have to go at all. As a former cruise columnist for Budget Travel magazine, I have friends in the industry and a strong feeling for the value of cruising. So I was interested to catch up on the latest. But the event also gave me a good excuse to visit the convention center again.
It’s a simple place to park, for the most part, and the entrances from the parking lot to the convention center are easy to use. The whole building is convenient, with well-placed escalators and elevators and bathrooms.
And it has one of the best fountains anywhere in Florida. Have you seen this thing? I’ve always loved it. The 35-foot bronze sculpture depicts a sailfish in three stages of leaping from the water: With a fin barely breaking the waves, with the fish’s head poking through, and with the entire grand sailfish in full jump over the ocean. To me, it’s really a beautiful piece and I don’t think enough people who visit Fort Lauderdale find it, unless they happen to be at a convention.
Several weeks ago, I wrote about all the cruise ships that pack Port Everglades all week long, especially on the weekends. And about all the great things for vacationers to do in this area before and after their cruise. This community is a vital link in the thriving cruise business and all of the travel agents, cruise line professionals and media members I talked with in the past few days seemed happy to converge here for the big conference. And why not? Where else can you hold a convention in a place with great views of the Intracoastal Waterway and Port Everglades and cruise ships … and a very remarkable bronze sailfish, caught permanently in mid-air?
Apr 6: A loaf of bread, a jug of wine and...
Posted On: April 6, 2006 4:43 PM
Posted By: LauderBLOGGER
Related Subjects: Greater Fort Lauderdale
Someone asked me the other day about picnics. “Where’s a great spot to go for a nice romantic picnic for two?” Good question. This is the perfect time of year to take a basket of food and beverages outdoors. The sunny, mild spring weather just begs to be enjoyed. And so I’m giving my answer here, my own personal picks for the Top Ten romantic picnic spots in Broward County. In ascending order, here they are:
10) Quiet Waters Park – If you like fresh water activities, this is your spot. Should you and your sweetie want to get active, there are boat rentals here, even water skiing at the only wakeboard and cable skiing park in South Florida (no boat needed). Or just enjoy a quiet picnic. 954-360-1315
9) Plantation Heritage Park in Plantation – A small and delightful place, with a pretty lake. Peaceful and relaxing. There’s even good fishing, if you both want to cast a line. 954-791-1025
8) Sawgrass Recreation Park on Highway 27– A bit of a ride, but that can be romantic too, this is a fun destination for nature lovers. This place is out in the Everglades. Take an airboat ride, then dive into those sandwiches and sodas. 800-457-0788
7) Broward County Main Library in downtown Fort Lauderdale – This is right near the art museum and lots of restaurants. Buy yourself a nice lunch of sushi or a panini (the Charcuterie on the second floor offers lovely food choices) and sit on the steps just north of the building for a romantic citystyle meal or down in the park where Wednesdays there is a bonus of free music. 954-357-7444
6) Hollywood Broadwalk in Hollywood – This 2 ½ mile-long walk along the sand offers plenty of benches and open beach for picnics and anything else. And plenty of spots to buy lunch if you didn’t bring it yourself. Sugar Reef is a favorite of mine.
5) Butterfly World – What can I say? Look at my two recent blogs about this amazing place, called “Butterflies, Birds and Bugs,” and you’ll get the idea. It’s charming and unique … and very romantic, if you’re so inclined. 954-977-4434
4) Bonnet House Museum & Gardens in Fort Lauderdale – This beautiful estate and grounds just reeks romance. There is a romantic story to learn here too. Lazy lagoons and lovely spaces made for two, with picnic tables to eat your brie and baguette. 954-563-5393
3) Birch State Park in Fort Lauderdale – Right across Sunrise Boulevard from the Bonnet House, this large park offers enough natural nooks, crannies and quiet places to accommodate couples galore. 954-564-4521
2) Beach wave wall in Fort Lauderdale – Pull up your own patch of white wavy wall along Fort Lauderdale’s beautiful beach. The wall is wide and comfortable and urban with one of the best citygoing views in South Florida … the Atlantic Ocean. It doesn’t get much more romantic than that.
And, drumroll please … the number one spot for a romantic picnic in greater Fort Lauderdale is:
1) John U. Lloyd Beach State Park in Dania Beach – This is my own favorite romantic picnic spot. I’ve gone here many times and usually can find a shady spot under the trees to spread our blanket and dive into that basket of food. Plus, it’s right on the ocean! Take a swim, then steal a smooch. Excellent!
954-923-2833
And special mention to Anne Kolb Nature Center in Hollywood and Anglin’s Pier in Lauderdale by-the-Sea. If you have a favorite, let me know since I am sure there are plenty of others.
10) Quiet Waters Park – If you like fresh water activities, this is your spot. Should you and your sweetie want to get active, there are boat rentals here, even water skiing at the only wakeboard and cable skiing park in South Florida (no boat needed). Or just enjoy a quiet picnic. 954-360-1315
9) Plantation Heritage Park in Plantation – A small and delightful place, with a pretty lake. Peaceful and relaxing. There’s even good fishing, if you both want to cast a line. 954-791-1025
8) Sawgrass Recreation Park on Highway 27– A bit of a ride, but that can be romantic too, this is a fun destination for nature lovers. This place is out in the Everglades. Take an airboat ride, then dive into those sandwiches and sodas. 800-457-0788
7) Broward County Main Library in downtown Fort Lauderdale – This is right near the art museum and lots of restaurants. Buy yourself a nice lunch of sushi or a panini (the Charcuterie on the second floor offers lovely food choices) and sit on the steps just north of the building for a romantic citystyle meal or down in the park where Wednesdays there is a bonus of free music. 954-357-7444
6) Hollywood Broadwalk in Hollywood – This 2 ½ mile-long walk along the sand offers plenty of benches and open beach for picnics and anything else. And plenty of spots to buy lunch if you didn’t bring it yourself. Sugar Reef is a favorite of mine.
5) Butterfly World – What can I say? Look at my two recent blogs about this amazing place, called “Butterflies, Birds and Bugs,” and you’ll get the idea. It’s charming and unique … and very romantic, if you’re so inclined. 954-977-4434
4) Bonnet House Museum & Gardens in Fort Lauderdale – This beautiful estate and grounds just reeks romance. There is a romantic story to learn here too. Lazy lagoons and lovely spaces made for two, with picnic tables to eat your brie and baguette. 954-563-5393
3) Birch State Park in Fort Lauderdale – Right across Sunrise Boulevard from the Bonnet House, this large park offers enough natural nooks, crannies and quiet places to accommodate couples galore. 954-564-4521
2) Beach wave wall in Fort Lauderdale – Pull up your own patch of white wavy wall along Fort Lauderdale’s beautiful beach. The wall is wide and comfortable and urban with one of the best citygoing views in South Florida … the Atlantic Ocean. It doesn’t get much more romantic than that.
And, drumroll please … the number one spot for a romantic picnic in greater Fort Lauderdale is:
1) John U. Lloyd Beach State Park in Dania Beach – This is my own favorite romantic picnic spot. I’ve gone here many times and usually can find a shady spot under the trees to spread our blanket and dive into that basket of food. Plus, it’s right on the ocean! Take a swim, then steal a smooch. Excellent!
954-923-2833
And special mention to Anne Kolb Nature Center in Hollywood and Anglin’s Pier in Lauderdale by-the-Sea. If you have a favorite, let me know since I am sure there are plenty of others.
Apr 3: Volley of the Dolls
Posted On: April 3, 2006 10:22 AM
Posted By: LauderBLOGGER
Related Subjects: Greater Fort Lauderdale
This is the most unusual professional sporting event I’ve ever attended. I think I can say that with some confidence.I’ve also never been to a tournament where the competitors, male and female, play in swimsuits and bare feet. And always wear sunglasses and SPF 30 sunblock. And where so, so many fans in attendance wear swimsuits too. Sports writers who cover this beat should send their editors cases of very good scotch every month to thank them.
So yes, you could say I was glad to be there Saturday. "There" being this season’s first event in the pro beach volleyball, or AVP, tour. It was happening all weekend at Fort Lauderdale’s South Beach Park and, of course, everyone had yet another perfect spring day in which to enjoy it all. Sunny, mild, cool ocean breezes.
My day began when I was corralled by two beautiful young women who were promoting one of the products that sponsors this tournament. As part of the promotion, they wanted to take a picture with me inside their company tent. Well, perhaps "corralled" is too strong a word. They asked. I said yes. Instantly. I’m looking at this picture now and I’m smiling. Because four other beautiful young women joined us for the photo op. Unfortunately, I was then expected to leave the tent so some other guy could have his picture snapped. But it wasn’t a bad way to start a morning.
About that time I began to notice that a whole lot of people walking around this place wore nothing but fairly small bathing suits. The women, at least. I think that brought a smile to my face too. The guys were wearing their long baggies and I trust this brought smiles to the faces of many women and/or gay fans.
I keep calling those of us at the volleyball tournament "fans," but I suspect many were more like me. I’ve seen and enjoyed beach volleyball during the Olympics. That’s it. Today I learned you don’t have to be a diehard fan to have a great time at this thing. There’s lots of food and drinks, as always at sports events. But you also can try your hand at serving volleyballs to see how fast you can knock one over the net. Or you can compete against yourself to find out how high you can jump. Or you can just people-watch. I did a lot of that, the people-watching part, as you probably gathered by now.
Oh and the competitors? I found them impressive. I saw the top women players in the world compete in a match and, believe me – swimsuits or not, these are serious athletes. Misty May-Treanor and her partner, Kerri Walsh, won the Olympic gold medal in Athens two years ago. It was obvious why they are gold medalists. I also caught some of the men’s games and several other women’s matches and I truly liked it all. The action was fast, the performances competitive and the setting ideal. Where else can you smell the sea while sitting in the stands? And all right, yes, a bunch of the athletes are babes. And so are many of the fans. And the tournament ends Sunday, sadly. But if anyone wants to send me to cover the next tournament on this tour, let me know.
