| On Florida’s Atlantic Coast – less than 2 hours north of Miami – sits the colorful gem of West Palm Beach, brimming with genuine south Florida character.
Looking for a great escape? Smart travelers can enjoy a long weekend in this flashy, sub-tropical city without a side trip to the poorhouse.
Start with a reservation at chic Hotel Biba (320 Belvedere Rd., 800-789-9843, hotelbiba.com), and prepare to be pampered with pillow-top mattresses, Aveda bath products, and organic continental breakfasts. This handsomely renovated boutique hotel features 43 colorful rooms, a lush pool and garden area, and happening cocktail lounge.
Online rates start at about $115 per night during off-peak season, and hover around $200 during the busy winter months. I recommend visiting anytime between May and October for the best deals.
Conveniently, the SunFest waterfront music and art festival (www.sunfest.com) takes place in West Palm Beach each May. What more excuse do you need?
From your Hotel Biba home base in the El Cid historic district, you’ll be a scant block from the Intercoastal Waterway, and less than a mile from hip clubs and restaurants on Clematis Street.
Begin the festivities with Clematis by Night (clematisbynight.net), a free concert series running every Thursday from 6 to 9:30 p.m. in Centennial Square. From there, take your pick of lounges running the gamut from young and lusty to chill and refined.
Walk it off on Saturday morning at the Green Market along Narcissus Avenue (www.wpb.org/greenmarket), then get a good dose of culture at The Norton Museum of Art (1451 S. Olive Ave., 561-832-5196, norton.org) for a paltry $8 to $12 admission.
Other spots of interest include world-class beaches (of course); the Palm Beach Zoo at Dreher Park; the South Florida Science Museum; and the antique district along South Dixie Highway.
Visit www.cityofwpb.com for more information, and get ready for a memorable trip! |
