I flew to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for a conference near my aunt’s condo in Pompano Beach. Of course, I couldn’t resist staying with her for a few nights afterward. It had been 15 years since I was last there when my late boyfriend visited and then took a Caribbean cruise out of Miami. My aunt is in her 80s now, so I was excited to see her. She lives in a high-rise condo … [Read more...]
Pass-a-Grille, Florida: Laid Back Fun and Kitsch
Pass-a-Grille, Florida, is on the southernmost tip of St. Pete’s Beach, outside of Tampa. A visit there is a venture back in time to the era of Pez containers, pink flamingos, and kitschy surfboards. It’s almost like being in a time capsule of old Florida nostalgia. This tiny piece of Paradise makes a charming getaway for those wishing to disappear, a romantic nook for … [Read more...]
Stay at Casa Marina: Jacksonville, Florida’s Grand Lady
From the beach, she appeared ethereal, a vision from the past, perhaps some would say otherworldly. I approached slowly, taking in the sight. The Casa Marina, on Jacksonville Beach, had weathered many storms, the most visible, a scar at the top, on the outdoor patio, where she'd been struck by lightning. I walked into the foyer, opening heavy wood doors to see dappled … [Read more...]