By Ben Olive for Florida Luxurious Properties
As the sun rose over the Atlantic this morning, I was reminded of why I love Fort Lauderdale so much.The early light was magical, glinting off a perfectly flat ocean, the tiny rays of light shining like diamonds. Then, as the sun grew stronger and warmer it bathed the beach, the world around me awakened. A soft breeze was blowing in off the ocean, and the palm fronds swayed gently, the shimmering light bouncing off them. After a cup of very good coffee, I was ready to greet the day, here in our paradise. And I got to thinking about…
Ten Things I Love About Fort Lauderdale
10 –Location!
My town is very accessible, with a great international airport, an executive airport for private aircraft, rail service, and of course, excellent access by sea. With Miami to the south and Palm Beach to the north, we are at the center of South Florida life.
9 – This is a dynamic, multi-cultural environment.
Our population has a wide variety of interests. We have an outstanding Museum of Art, a world-class performing arts center, a beautiful pubic library, and a music and arts calendar that is full year-round.
8 – The Food!
Every continent on the planet is represented. International cuisine from Asia, Europe, Central and South America, Africa and the islands, plus trendy steakhouses and great pubs offer some of the most varied dining anywhere. Check out the menus at Chima Steakhouse, The Boatyard, or Louie Bossi’s. Good food.
7 – The wide variety of architectural styles!
There are rambling Victorian homes, picturesque ranch-style residences, and two-story custom estates in every mode. Sleek, modern architecture lives side by-side with Mission, Mediterranean, Key West and British West Indies-style inspired architecture. There really is something for every taste. If you’re building new or renovating, you’ll want to meet with Bomar Builders. Ready to decorate? See Rosana Fleming, a great interior designer.
6 – Our parks and landscape is fabulous!
With exotic flowers, more than 1500 varieties of palm, live oak, ficus, banyans draped with Spanish moss, Royal Poinciana and Jacaranda trees, Fort Lauderdale is a lush eden. The Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway is an oasis of tropical hammocks, and hosts the Bonnet House Museum. The Riverwalk Linear Park is well lighted, with winding walkways and picnic spots on the waterfront.
5 – Fishing, swimming, diving, surfing—all here!
Like to boat? There are miles of waterways to navigate. Tennis, anyone? Check. Golf courses, bike paths--the list goes on.
4 – Our diverse society – everyone is represented--young, old, singles, couples and families.
The population is ethnically, socially, and culturally diverse—all are welcome in the mosaic that is Fort Lauderdale.
3 – We have options!
What kind of home do you want? A luxury beachfront like 2924 North Atlantic Boulevard, or maybe a waterfront residence? Perhaps a riverfront or golf course residence like The Enclave at Coral Ridge Country Club. How about a stunning condominium offering spectacular vistas and fabulous amenities like 80 Hendricks Isle? There is also a rapidly expanding choice of downtown residences, walking distance to day and nightlife activities.
2 – The weather!
How about 246 days of sunshine, an average high of 83.3 and an average low of 67.8 degrees—sweet! Non-stop opportunity to get out and have fun!
1 – Water, water, everywhere!
We have the world-class Fort Lauderdale beach, the Intracoastal Waterway, lakes, rivers, and miles of the best deep-water canals on the eastern seaboard.