Escape to Fort Lauderdale

By Hillary Latos

As the temperatures drop the Northeast snowbirds start to flock, and what better choice than the white sandy beaches of South Florida. Since the 1920s Ft. Lauderdale has long considered a playground for celebrities and A-listers, as well as spring breakers, and at the heart of the new renaissance of "The Strip" is the W Fort Lauderdale that combines the cool luxury of a W hotel with the relaxed beach culture of South Florida.

Relax in the serenity of a loft or apartment sized accomodation overlooking the ocean with floor to ceiling windows and a private balcony. Rooms start at Wonderful and move to Spectacular, Sensational, Marvelous, Fabulous and Mega ranging in size from 363 square feet to 2607 square feet. Be prepared to be swept off your feet as you lay in your pillow topped King sized bed with 180 degree views over the beach and ocean or admire the view from one of the loungers inside or on the balcony. The oversized bathroom features a rain shower head and a separate stand alone tub to enjoy the glorious sunset from the comfort of your room with luxurious Bliss amenities. Set in a palette of soothing neutral tones of beige and grey with teak furniture, the room features pops of bright fuschia in the closet to remind you of the sizzling scene that awaits.

While W is known for its creative design, the WET pool is a shining example of their cool ingenuity. As you ascend the stairs from the lobby to the pool, the dramatic glass enclosed foyer encasing the pool gives a sensory immersion of being in the pool without getting wet. Grab a refreshing cocktail or a light bite at the WET bar or relax in one of the outfitted cabanas or on a plush lounger to soak up some rays in this high energy people watching scene.

For a complete rejuvenation of the mind and body luxuriate at the Bliss Spa where a ginger rub aromatherapy massage or triple oxygen treatment will cure any of the winter blues. Stick to your New Years resolutions with a complementary high intensity beach boot camp or yoga at sunrise against a backdrop of cascading waves, soft sand, and balmy breezes.

Get ready for a hot night Ft. Lauderdale style at the Ted Gibson salon, renowned stylist to the stars. Whether its a blow out or a cut and color, your locks will be well tended to at this 2000 square foot salon where everyone's inner diva is realized.

Nightlife has always been one of Ft. Lauderdale's trademarks and the W is at the heart of the scene. At the ground level of the W is celebrated restaurateur Stephen Starr's latest outpost, Steak 954 which is a contemporary take on the classic American steakhouse. An impresario with the Midas touch, his dry aged and wagyu steaks take on a new level with an array of delectable sauces and sides. Or indulge in the succulent butter poached lobster, miso black cod, or tuna and foie gras tacos. End the night at the sleek and sexy Whiskey Blue where the party never ends.

For more information:
wfortlauderdalehotel.com