Fort Lauderdale is often referred to as the Venice of USA, surrounded by a network of more than 250 kilometres canals – many lined by palm trees – which gives the city it character. But in other ways, it is a typical American small town with big city aspirations. Expansive parks, elegant neighbourhoods, and endless kilometres of fine sandy beaches complete the image and transform it into a much loved and elegant vacation destination along the so-called American Riviera.
SUNSHINE, BEACHES, AND PALM TREES
The subtropical climate adds to this ambiance. Shopaholics and bargain hunters will not be disappointed in Fort Lauderdale. In addition to the many shopping malls, flea markets are well worth a visit, which are famous for their reasonably priced, high quality goods. The “Las Olas Boulevard”, which stretches throughout the city, is lined with shops, restaurants and cafés. The steady activity along the waterways is proof that there is more than enough to keep a person from getting bored. Numerous Broadway shows, discotheques, jazz cafés, museums, operas and concerts offer plenty to do to keep busy during the warm days and nights. In the nearby Everglades National Park, time seems to have stood still. Day excursions to corral reefs, or deep-sea fishing tours are just as popular as visiting the Flamingo Garden, with the mightiest tree in Florida, or going on a hiking trip and/or a canoe tour in the Hugh Taylor Birch State Park Recreation Area. Or consider taking a little weekend side trip to the Bahamas, or a short jaunt to Miami Beach, only 45 kilometres away from Fort Lauderdale. One thing is for sure and that is that in this place, time seems to slip through your fingers just like the sand of the nearby beaches does.
