The recent dreary weather got me thinking about one of the few places in Florida where I might consider spending more than a short vacation. Palm Beach County is one of the largest counties east of the Mississippi River, and it offers more diversity and interest than much of the rest of Florida.
You can enjoy memorable accommodations, a wide array of terrific food . . . and, of course, you can lounge on the county’s 47 miles’ worth of beaches. The area is slightly more grown-up than much of Florida, so it’s a good place to catch up on those trashy novels you just can’t seem to find time for at home.
One of my favorite warm weather resorts is the Brazilian Court. Despite its name, the Brazilian has a more Mediterranean feel, very cool and understated. Plus, the food at the hotel’s Cafe Boulud is some of the best “hotel food” I have enjoyed anywhere.
It’s also worth a visit to The Breakers. Newly refurbished to the tune of $250 million, the place has been restored to its late-1800s grandeur and truly is amazing, with more historic connotations than most places in the Sunshine State. The scale of the common rooms will blow you away, and the service is unparalleled; I attended an event there once where there were FOUR servers for every guest. Neither my plate nor my glass was ever empty.
For a very different experience, visit the Hotel Biba. It’s actually two experiences in one. Inside, the place is modern and vibrantly colored; outside, it’s very Zen-like and calm. Strange, but relaxing. . . . Sorry, did I nod off?
For a standalone eatery, consider the Amici Ristorante and Bar. Palm Beach is big on the “society thing,” and this is one of the local hubs for being seen. The food is Italian and quite good, but the main reason I mention the place is that I enjoyed one of the weird experiences that make travel interesting. I was in the area for business and stumbled upon Amici. About halfway through my meal, a wandering harpist—yes, you read that right—started entertaining us. The guy rolled his huge instrument around the dining room for some time; this may have been a one-time thing, but it has always stuck in my mind.
Palm Beach is one of the few places in Florida about which I have memories that last. Think of the sun and sand as the rain and cold start up again this weekend.
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