Planning Florida Staycation This Fall? Here Are Some Ideas.
By Georgina Cruz
Fall is the ideal time for a Florida staycation. Hotel rates typically go down after the highs of summer and before the highs of winter; temperatures are more pleasant too, and attractions and restaurants are less crowded. If you are planning a fall staycation this year, here are some novelties to consider in the lodging industry, either conveniently in, or near, the Treasure Coast.
· Disney’s Vero Beach Resort & Spa – This nostalgic, Old Florida-themed seaside resort recently received the coveted AAA four-diamond designation, an honor that is bestowed upon properties that are refined, stylish with upscale physical attributes, extensive amenities and a high degree of hospitality, service and attention to detail, according to AAA. A Disney Vacation Club property, it recently completed a multi-million dollar renovation of its accommodations and facilities. A new dining location, Wind & Waves, recently debuted and features a grill, marketplace and poolside bar area.
The grill offers a menu highlighted by locally-sourced produce and fresh Florida seafood. The marketplace features sandwiches, salads, prepared meals, pizzas and a variety of grab-and-go items. Resort amenities include a sandy beach, swimming pool with water slide, children’s water play area, spa, mini-golf, and a complimentary campfire sing-along program with s’mores. Accommodations feature studios and inn rooms and one- and two-bedroom villas with full kitchens, washers and dryers. Info: https://verobeach.disney.go.com/.
conrad Hotel Exterior
Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach is a new 290 all-suite oceanfront resort on Fort Lauderdale North Beach. The Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach is slated to open in September. This luxury resort will offer four restaurants and bars, a full-service spa featuring a couples massage room, separate men’s and women’s steam room, fitness center with state of the art equipment, and a 20,000 sq. ft. ocean-facing pool deck. Info: Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach.
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Copper Creek Villas & Cabins
Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge – This resort opened in July at Walt Disney World in Orlando. A Disney Vacation Club property. It offers 184 rustically elegant accommodation options, including studios, one- and two-bedroom Villas, three-bedroom villas and waterfront cabins. Inspired by the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, the resort features natural elements, such as wood and stone in its design, as well as subtle nods to the American transcontinental railroad. The studios offer room for up to four guests. The larger one- and two-bedroom villas and three-bedroom grand villas feature the comforts of home with full kitchens, expanded storage space for belongings, and private patios or balconies with scenic views.
The 26 all-new luxurious waterfront Cascade Cabins are the centerpiece of the resort and feature two-bedrooms and two-baths. They sleep up to eight. Large dining and living room spaces, along with a screened-in wraparound porch, allow for plenty of space for families. Amenities throughout the cabins include a full kitchen, flat panel televisions, a washer and dryer, a hidden pull-down bed featuring artwork of Chip and Dale, a built-in hot tub on the porch, an indoor/outdoor fireplace and a number of special Disney touches. A short, free water taxi ride away is Magic Kingdom Park. The resort offers bus access to the rest of the Walt Disney World Resort. Resort amenities include a new leisure pool and while staying at Copper Creek Villas & Cabins, guests have shared access to all of the amenities and activities available just steps away at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge including dining and recreation. Info: DisneyCopperCreek.com.
· Bahia Mar
Fort Lauderdale Beach, a Doubletree by Hilton – This iconic hotel on Fort Lauderdale Beach has announced a $7 million new redesign scheduled for completion in October. The refresh will include the guestrooms, common areas and meeting spaces of the hotel. Info: https://www.bahiamar.com/.
Buena Vista Palace
· Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace – A 1,011-room property located in the Disney Springs area of Walt Disney World has completed an extensive multi-million dollar renovation. It is within walking distance of this area’s shops, restaurants and entertainment.The refurbishment included a new guestroom design; modern lobby with new lobby bar and outside terrace; a grab-and-go market, a new signature restaurant, and a revamped spa, salon and boutique, as well as new pools and cabanas and a new poolside restaurant serving lunch and dinner. Info: https://www.
