Palm Beach County

Exactly What We Need - Chilling Out in PBC

2008-07-11T11:26:00.005-04:00

Then again, sharks and snow don’t do all that much for me. Maybe while the family plays with ice and fossil teeth, I’ll get my thrills the old fashioned way: world class shopping. From the stylish shopping malls to Worth Avenue to CityPlace to Clematis Street to Atlantic Avenue and more, the one of a kind shops and boutiques of Palm Beach always give me real excitement and some really fine values. Oh, and I just found out: there are guided Shopping Excursions where you get maps, shopping magazines, and “Staff Support Personnel.” Can you believe it!? I’ll be getting some friends together for that faster than you can say, “take these bags to the car!”

Of course, if we make a long weekend of it, we’ll do so very affordably, thanks to off-season lodging specials. With so many resorts, boutique inns, bed and breakfasts, and classic hotels, we’ll find a place to make us feel right at home with plenty of style, good food, and luxurious comfort.

I have to admit, a quick trip Palm Beach County sure makes for a great family getaway. Between the sun, sand, and water, fine dining, outstanding places to stay, and all sorts of wonderful things to do, there’s something for everyone. But this year, I know what to pack for Winter in July. You’d better believe we’re bringing our mittens!

Exactly What We Need - Chilling Out in Palm Beach County

2008-07-11T11:09:00.007-04:00

My husband complains about the weather this time of year. Coming from the north, he sometimes under-appreciates summertime in Florida, so I make sure he gets a healthy dose of cool things to do in Palm Beach County.

For the second year in a row, we’ll slide into Winter in July on July 12 & 13 at the Palm Beach Zoo. It’s a sure winner for my family; the kids all love animals, and while enjoying the critters, live music, interactive games, juggling lessons, and a visit from the Snow Queen, they’ll also learn about Sun Safety.

We found a discount coupon online, and did I mention the Zoo will have 40 tons of snow to play in? I’ve had to live in the white stuff before; give me this kind of Winter Wonderland any day!

Long as we’re nearby, we’ll drop in for Shark Saturday on the 12^th at Loggerhead Marinelife Center. My youngest is fascinated by sharks; bet he’ll be thrilled to touch genuine shark jaws and fossil shark teeth from all over the world.

Lighting Up the Night (and Day) in PBC

2008-07-03T17:30:00.008-04:00

One thing’s for sure, Palm Beach County is not making it easy to finalize our 4th of July weekend plans; there’s just SO much going on there for Independence Day!

Found a listing on the PBC website for the “4th on Flagler” in West Palm, “the region's biggest 4th of July celebration,” with what looks like lots of fun things to do: live entertainment, a kids’ area, the firefighters' Splash and Dash, tons of terrific food, and, of course, a magnificent fireworks display.

My husband mentions fireworks at Roger Dean Stadium in Jupiter the nights of July 3 and 4. I’m sure the kids would enjoy seeing some minor league baseball, but I know he’s also eyeing the very fine Florida Resident Getaway deal at the nearby Homewood Suites by Hilton Palm Beach Gardens. We could even get gasoline for the trip! Of course, for special offers on lodging, like so many other things in PBC, there are a slew of first-rate choices.

Then there’s the Fabulous 4th Celebration in Boca Raton, with family activities, a stage show, and a Florida Wind Symphony concert before the fireworks (and maybe a quick round of world class golf the next morning?) Or we could head to beautiful Lake Worth’s Tropic Fest/ July 4th Celebration for more food, music, and kids’ games before the sky lights up to their fireworks spectacle. And my eldest is lobbying for the Fireworks Cruise out of Riviera Beach, a three-hour excursion promising “an unparalleled view of the 4th on Flagler fireworks.”

But I’m leaning toward the all-day July 4 party at Delray Beach. We can watch the sand sculpting competition in the morning and see the Patriotic Bike and Scooter Parade in the afternoon. Plus, there’ll be free concerts and other entertainment, a 100-foot inflatable obstacle course, and more food and drink than even my ravenous brood can devour. Oh, and the evening ends with another fantastic fireworks extravaganza, courtesy of the legendary Grucci family.

As long as we’re gazing at the sky shouting oooh and ahhh, we’ll have a wonderful time no matter where we end up. And since they offer so many 4th of July celebrations, we’ll just have to keep up our Independence Day / Palm Beach County tradition for years to come!

A Burst of Good Times – July 4th in Palm Beach County

2008-06-25T19:53:00.008-04:00

When I was little, our family’s 4th of July tradition was a lazy afternoon of BBQ and games while we waited for dark, when we’d head for the fireworks show on the outskirts of town. These days, we have our own 4th of July family tradition: a day of treating ourselves well and a night of fabulous fireworks in Palm Beach County.

The question is, exactly how will we spend our 4th? There are so many choices in PBC (a good problem to have). Guess it all depends on where we stay, and there’s plenty of selection there, too. One thing I know, we’ll get in on some remarkable specials!

I’m thinking we’ll rent a boat or take a day cruise. The kids never tire of getting out on the water. Or maybe I’ll leave the husband and offspring on the beach (check out the view) while I sample some of the finer retail opportunities. Been too long since I gazed at the value-packed vistas of Town Center, Mizner Park, or Boynton Beach Mall (not counting the girls’ weekend at CityPlace, of course – less said about that the better).

After that, I’ll rendezvous with the family for something good to eat. From elegant to casual, there are more than 2000 places to dine round these parts

We’re sure to find someplace exceptionally appetizing, and even my finicky eaters will find something they like.

But where will we go to light up the night with booms, bangs, oooh’s and ahhh’s? One good possibility: the July 4th Salute to Independence at Intracoastal Park. You can’t go wrong with a fireworks display by the legendary Grucci family, plus there’ll be live music.

Or we could hit the July 4th Celebration at Sunset Cove Amphitheater, just west of Boca. They’ll have a spectacular display, too, the Private Stock Band will play, and the food and beverage vendors can pacify the kids while we wait for the show.

So many possibilities, but I’m sure of the outcome: a wonderful time sharing the 4th with my family in Palm Beach County.

Cure for the Common: Palm Beach County Weekend

2008-06-21T22:50:00.007-04:00

Okay, awake, refreshed, and ready for shopping as it was meant to be ;)! The tasteful shops and one-of-a-kind boutiques of Worth Avenue never fail to inspire me, and CityPlace’s European town square feel puts me in the mood to relax between fabulous finds.

By now, the kids will be famished; not a problem, though, with more than 2000 eateries in the county, we’ll easily find something satisfy our family’s most particular members.

Now, who’s up for some nightlife? I could spend weeks checking out the different entertainment options, though the kids would probably prefer their own favorite activities.

Oh, my oldest shows me an article in the Palm Beach Post about going to a drum circle. I’m willing to try it if they are.

Then again, the evening could be an opportunity to let them chill back in their room while their father and I hit the dance floor

On the other hand, we MIGHT just find some other exciting way to spend our time…mmmm, that WOULD be perfect.

Cure for the Common: A day in Palm Beach County

2008-06-20T20:36:00.011-04:00

Cure for the Common: A day in Palm Beach County

Sometimes it’s not so easy to take everything the world dishes out. My job, the house, my family: too many demands on my time leave me running on empty. When that feeling starts to get to me, this prescription works every time: a perfect day in Palm Beach County.

Nothing is nicer than waking up somewhere magnificent, where the kids have their own room and someone else is picking up after them. For that matter, someone else is picking up after my husband and me, not to mention doing all the cooking!

Let’s see, the perfect Palm Beach County day should start off a terrific meal. No matter who is in the mood for what, we know we’ll find good food for everyone in the family. That’s right, waiter; we’d like our brunch served in sun splashed splendor, thanks very much.

What’s up next? A mellow midday at the water’s edge? Will it be sunning on the beach, getting in some snorkeling or jet skiing, maybe try a little fishing? How about a bit of all three?

Of course, a breathtakingly beautiful round in golfing paradise is always wonderful.

Then maybe an hour’s massage and a quick nap? Mmmm, the perks of a perfect day…☺

The Best for Our Best Guy: Father's Day in PBC

2008-06-12T16:22:00.014-04:00

Had an absolutely fabulous weekend at the antiques show; our hunt turned up some great finds for gifting, a stunning accent table for our entryway, and some new ideas for our home décor. But all that will have to wait, as important plans are being made for the Big Man in our lives, and nothing less will do than a Father’s Day getaway in Palm Beach County.

Thinking we’ll start the weekend off with a cruise. The Palm Beach Princess shoves off Friday evening for five hours of fun, including a clambake, Vegas-style gaming, song and dance shows, five bars and lounges, even skeet shooting! (note to self: skeet first, drinks later)

Then we’ll retreat to our hotel for the luxurious treatment he deserves;) !

On Saturday, PB County is Dad’s oyster. Will he want to charter a boat or rent a jet ski?

Grab a spectacular round of golf? Stake out some shade on the beach? We can do as much or as little as he wants. Maybe catch a movie; better yet, hit the theater for a show!

Afterward, will he want to see what’s on tap at the local pubs? Catch some live music? Or sample the area’s finest dining, maybe a Middle Eastern feast at Leila or the four-star elegance (and two-for-one wine special!) of The Leopard Lounge in The Chesterfield?

Who knows what we’ll do Sunday? He knows the kids love the Loggerhead Marinelife Center, and there’s a free deal for Dads at the Palm Beach Zoo.

They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. This Father’s Day, we’ll not only feed him well, we’ll show him a grand time on the water, in the lounge, by the pool, or luxuriating in sumptuous style. No matter how much or how little he wants to do for his weekend, our Dad deserves the Palm Beach Best of Everything!

Palm Beach Swinging Sensation – Golf in Paradise

2008-06-06T23:44:00.005-04:00

In anticipation of my upcoming antique and collectible safari, talked my husband into a “reconnaissance” trip to West Palm, where we scoped out a few shops and found a few treasures. But the biggest discovery of the weekend was how much I enjoy golfing Palm Beach County!

Took a break from shopping to hit the links one afternoon; the course was so breathtaking, I made up my mind we should stay a day or two! To our happy surprise, we had little-to-no trouble getting tee times. Then again, having 170 golf courses county-wide does give you options. And besides the absolutely stunning vistas some of these courses command, it’s kind of a thrill to play the same holes favored by the pros.

Spent an exhilarating afternoon on the Champion course at the PGA National Resort & Spa, where the Honda Classic is played every March. What a gorgeous setting! Our scores were far less impressive than this very challenging course, just one of the PGA National’s five appearing on Zagat’s America’s Top Golf Courses list.

Still, no matter where my ball ended up, the view was spectacular!

On Safari – Palm Beach Antiques Show

2008-06-01T12:34:00.007-04:00

In exchange for a fishing weekend to be named in the future, my helpful husband has agreed to keep the home fires burning and the kids in line; looks like I’m teaming up with a friend for three days “on the prowl” at the West Palm antiques show. Even better, we’re getting a superb deal on a place to stay.

And with all the deals available at area hotels and resorts, it was hard to choose! In addition to some really fantastic nightly rates, some are offering complimentary breakfasts, internet access, local call, shuttle service, and discounts at local shops and eateries.

After bagging a few one-of-a-kind bargains, those might come in handy as we savor our shopping success over an exceptional meal. No matter what cuisine we’re in the mood for, this area definitely has plenty of places sure to hit the spot.

I’ll happily admit it: I like to shop. But the Antique & Collectibles Show’s stellar selection will make this a real treasure hunt. Ah, a good friend, some great shopping, and outstanding places to stay and to dine – now THAT is a weekend packed with value!

On Safari – Stalking the Rare Wild Bargain

2008-05-30T18:56:00.008-04:00

There’s no doubt the Clematis Street District and City Place are extraordinary shopping destinations. But to feel the “thrill of the hunt” for something rare and unique, I’m heading for the West Palm Beach Antique & Collectibles Show at the South Florida Fairgrounds this weekend (June 6-8).

This is one of Florida’s biggest and longest running shows; dealers from all over the southeast and beyond bring treasures they’ve found all over the world. When I’m stuck for the perfect gift or decorating idea, this is where I know I’ll find something extraordinary to excite my imagination.

Actually, this will be a great opportunity to take care of a few items on my list: Gifts for those upcoming weddings? Check. Something just right for Father’s Day? Check. The perfect accent piece for the entryway? Priceless!

Palm Beach Videos

2008-05-26T15:58:00.002-04:00

Memorial Day Weekend: Living Large in PBC

2008-05-24T07:35:00.011-04:00

Okay, no matter what we do, we’re going to do it in style. Being that it’s “off season,” oodles of hotels and resorts offer special values to lure visitors keen on enjoying luxury for less. That group definitely includes my family.

Maybe elegant seaside room or something overlooking the pool...
The hotels also have a “$1000 Worth of the Palm Beaches Free” savings certificate book, which is sure to come in handy when we stop for a bite to eat. Again, we’ll have plenty of choices; this area really has the soup-to-nuts of fine dining.

Oh, and “savings certificate” or no, one thing I’m getting is a morning to myself for a spa treatment.

Oooh, I’m starting to feel excited! Three whole days in Palm Beach County to really make me feel alive!

Memorial Day Weekend: Doing Anything Together

2008-05-23T09:38:00.007-04:00

When I was little, the long Memorial Day weekend was a first taste of my favorite season: a summer splashed with good times. This year, we’ll use the holiday to celebrate with three days of fun in Palm Beach County.

For a trip like this, however, there’s always one big question: with all our destination has to offer, what are we going to do?

The great outdoors gives us plenty of options the kids will go along with: hiking,
hitting the beach, kayaking, stopping at the zoo…we could even rent a boat and get out on the water as a family.

The best part is, no matter what pastime we choose, we’ll enjoy it as a family. Being together, seeing the sights and doing something different, all that gets us out of our rut. The change of scenery is good for us all: the kids tend to forget their habit of teasing one another to distraction, while my husband and I get to focus more on the children and on each other.

On the other hand…there’ll be lots of things to do that are perfect for just two. Hmmm… ;)

Palm Beach Getaway Culture

2008-05-17T21:23:00.007-04:00

The husband emails me with this news item: The Police are at the Cruzan Amphitheater in West Palm on May 17. This sounds okay, but I’m more excited about the opening act: Elvis Costello and the Imposters. Saw Elvis four times “back in the day,” remember they were all great shows.

Hmm, for places to stay they’re promoting special rates for the summer concert season. Will look into it (in an area like this, we’ll certainly not lack for a place to spend the night in extreme comfort).

Then again, maybe we’ll want to kick back with music in a less crowded setting. Friday nights the Colony Hotel Palm Beach hosts a Motown Night, Cityplace has the City Jams jazz series, and there are more clubs and lounges with live music than you can shake a stick at.

Been thinking a little time with the arts would be nice too. Culture-wise, you can’t go wrong with the superb spaces and exhibitions at either the Norton or Boca Raton museums of art.

Also heard great things about Flagler Museum, where Henry Flagler spent his railroad money on life’s finer things. Now that I think about it, there’s really no shortage of finer things around Palm Beach.

I’ve got a good feeling about this trip, it won’t take long to bring me back to life with all the fun I can see, hear, touch, taste, and feel!

Palm Beach Getaway

2008-05-16T00:39:00.008-04:00

Given the breakneck pace required to meet project deadlines at the office, I’m willing to agree with the old saying, “all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.” That is to say, I’m feeling mighty dull, as in burnt out, as in worn to a frazzle. Fortunately, I know the perfect recipe to refresh and revitalize my senses – a Palm Beach getaway.

Right now, it looks like the kids can stay with friends. We’ll throw a few things into suitcases, and we’re off!

Will this be a weekend of sunshine, coconut oil, and cool breezes at the beach? According to palmbeachfl.com, we’ll have more than 28 to choose from, most with undeveloped waterfront.

Nothing like the sights and sounds of the ocean to relax with.

Of course, a little shopping is sure to make me feel alive. Will there be something I cannot live without? If I have anything to say about it, there will be. Friends tell me Cityplace in West Palm is an exceptional experience for both shopping and dining; the list there includes stores, restaurants, nightclubs, an IMAX movie theater, and a comedy club. We’ll spend some time checking it out.

Mother's Day - (almost) for Mom - Food and Fun

2008-05-10T08:30:00.008-04:00

An online search confirms we will not go hungry on this trip. I easily found 40 (!) brunches for Mother’s Day. Likely we’ll go buffet style that morning; the kids can get their favorites while the grown ups sample some of the finer things.

Then again, I plan to dine on the finer things all weekend; Palm Beach is crawling with fine dining.

Right now, the leading Mom’s Day brunch candidate is Cafe Boulud on Australian Ave for eggs Benedict, Belgian waffles, fish, ham and lamb carving stations, soups, cheeses, and pastries. Depending on how the weekend progresses, however, it might be nice to hit the Delray Beach Golf Club for brunch and a quick round to work off their egg and omelet station, fruit and cheese bar, salads, chicken saltimbocca, snapper Provencal, honey glazed ham, roast turkey, and dessert table.

After that, we might hit the American Orchid Society Visitors Center & Botanical Garden, where Moms will get in free for the day. And that night the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts has Riverdance, which I may or may not be able to talk the kids into.

Or maybe I’ll be spoiled enough by then to enjoy a quiet evening in our comfortable room. Hmmm…I might just get used to living this way every Mother’s Day!

Mother's Day - (almost) for Mom - Shopping

2008-05-10T07:13:00.006-04:00

The question has been put to me: “Do you want to go shopping while we’re in Palm Beach?” I smile and nod, knowing exactly where I want to go: Worth Avenue.

With the Atlantic at one end and Worth Lake at the other, these few blocks are rightfully called the Palm Beach equivalent of Beverly Hills' Rodeo Drive, with an all-star lineup of retail’s heavy hitters: Neiman Marcus - Cartier - Louis Vuitton - Tiffany & Co. - Hermès - Polo Ralph Lauren - Gucci - Chanel - Loro Piana - Brooks Brothers - Salvatore Ferragamo - Valentino - Vilebrequin - Saks Fifth Avenue - Lacoste... With about 250 shops, boutiques, restaurants and art galleries to choose from, I will be in shopping Valhalla!

The architecture echoes an atmosphere of Italian villas and teems with little alleys and courtyards. Some of the cafes offer outdoor seating; we’ll catch our breath and people watch while wolfing down pizza, or a sandwich and gourmet chocolates.

And all the better if the family wants to walk down the block to the beach while I shop…that will give me time to stop at some extra fabulous place to pick out something extra nice to make my Mother’s Day!

Mother's Day - (almost) for Mom

2008-05-08T17:34:00.001-04:00

Because putting together a weekend trip is impossible to keep secret, the family spilled the beans on my “surprise” Mother’s Day gift: a three-day getaway in and around Palm Beach. According to them, it is time I was “spoiled in the proper fashion.” I agree.

For now, the plan is to get out of town and don’t look back. The family made hotel reservations – they won’t say where – but the kids have packed their bathing suits, so I am envisioning a sun splashed white sand beach and/or a pool.

They tell me we’re staying someplace “really luxurious.” I read that the Crowne Plaza in West Palm Beach has beds with 7 pillows…sounds inviting. As long as someone else cooks and makes the beds, I’ll be happy.

Hopefully there will be time for serious pampering. My wish list includes some quiet time (truly something I need!), a massage, and maybe a spa treatment. Ahh, that will be the life…