If you’re looking to take a trip that doesn’t require a lot of travel time, Florida is a great vacation spot. Maybe not during the summer months because it’s so hot, but during the fall, winter or spring it’s a great option for a quick getaway.
If you live on the East Coast and need some rejuvenation, a weekend trip to Naples is an ideal resort destination. I recommend staying at The Ritz Carlton in Naples and enjoying their Gulf Coast beachfront property with all its’ amenities.
For fitness enthusiasts, their gym has 3-4 complimentary classes ranging from yoga, power hour, Pilates and cycling. They also provide body composition tests and personal training. If you like to golf, this resort has an incredible golf course. Eat at the Bella Vista Lounge at the golf resort, which is just a shuttle ride away.
The hotel also has a world-renowned spa – our facials were flawless. Also, check out their reflexology treatments and a 110-minute Intuitive Retreat. Fab! The great thing about this resort is that you can truly get away from it all and run on the sand, relax with a drink and enjoy an amazing meal. Spotlight: Dine at The Dusk restaurant and enjoy the sunset while eating sushi. Or, have a beachfront lunch at Gumbo Limbo!
For those who like to shop, Naples has some great stores to explore. Head over to Fifth Avenue South to experience an array of beautiful boutiques and stop at Café Lurcat to get a bite to eat. It’s very French and very fashionable. Also, why not catch a fabulous live show at The Naples Players theatre?
If an alligator sighting is what you’re after while visiting Naples, then take a day and drive to Everglade city. Fun fact: this small town of 400 people in Collier County has been the governmental center and had a county seat for years. Visit The Big Cypress National Preserve to view the local alligators and obtain some privy information about alligator living.
Then, if that wasn’t exciting enough and you’re still feeling adventurous, drive the loop road of The Everglades National Park. It’s a 40-mile dirt road ride with alligators sprawled on each side of the bank. Some of the big black alligators were hard to detect because they literally looked like black logs. Be cautious when stepping out of your cars!
If you’re more of the bird watcher type, you’ll be happy to know that vultures and other birds are prominent everywhere.
Travel tip: If you’re traveling from the West Coast Fly Virgin America non-stop to Ft. La Di Da (Ft. Lauderdale! Ha!) and drive an hour to Naples. It’s a super easy straight away along alligator alley.
If you’d like me to help you pack or plan a trip to Naples, Just Ask!
Happy Mother's Day!
