My cell phone rings. A friend from the Midwest is calling to see how my visit to Ft. Lauderdale is going. I mention that it is 80°, I am sitting by the pool gazing at crystal blue water and admiring some of the guests in my hotel who are taking advantage of the 'clothing-optional' policy. The phone drops to the floor and in a loud voice I hear my friend utter an expletive I am unable to print here. Apparently it was slightly above 20 degrees and snow was predicted in his neck of the woods. Such is life in Ft. Lauderdale in December (and most of the year).
The weather is a factor in any vacation, but even with great weather you need something more. Naked, sun-bronzed bodies aren't enough—a man needs to eat after all—and we all like the social aspect of making new friends from different parts of the world. Here in Ft. Lauderdale, the gay community has exploded on the scene with a variety of restaurants, clubs and shops all with that marvelous 'family' feel.
Since there is so much to do and see here, I thought it might be helpful to outline a typical day and night in this very gay city along the Florida coast.
By Day
If you've arrived from any of the 'weather-challenged' states you'll need to spend at least one day thawing by the pool. A tan is mandatory and will also serve as your best souvenir. (Plus your friends back home will envy you even more.)
Next on your agenda should be a drive along the coast (especially if you've rented that hot little red convertible for the week). Not only does this contribute to your healthy glow, it also allows for a 360° view of the boys jogging, skating, walking and sunning along the beach. Your first stop is the Gay Beach located at Sebastian Street where locals and visitors alike congregate. After you've enjoyed a few hours of sun and fun, head back North along the coast to Wilton Manor, a gay district of sorts in Ft. Lauderdale. Stop by Georgi's Alibi for a cool one and a bite to eat, head to Gay Mart or the Pride Factory for some lite shopping and supplies, and then back to your hotel for some R&R before your night on the town.
If you're into water sports (the real ones) like snorkeling, diving, and parasailing, there are a number of companies here to indulge you. If you'd just like a relaxing cruise through the waterways (what some call 'the Venice of America,') the Water Bus will only set you back $5 and makes about 21 stops throughout the day. The Jungle Queen Riverboat (no kidding) hosts three-hour sightseeing cruises and includes a stop at the Jungle Queen Indian Village in a tropical island setting.
Spend at least one afternoon or evening walking along Las Olas Boulevard. With more than 100 specialty shops, galleries and restaurants, it's a great opportunity to try out that new Platinum card.
By Night
Dining choices are endless. Some of my favorites are Hi Life just off of Federal Highway. Gay owned, this restaurant attracts a mixed crowd and is known by locals as one of the better restaurants in Ft. Lauderdale. The menu is extensive and delicious. As an avid meat eater, I haven't tasted a better steak. Fish, pastas and specialty dishes abound. If you enjoy sushi and other Asian fare, Galanga, located in Wilton Manor has some of the finest, served in a trendy and relaxed setting. A favorite with the gay crowd, it can be quite cruisy.
Max's at the Beach located on A1A just across from the beach should definitely be on your list. The food is incredible, the servers are as varied and tasty as the menu, and the staff is very friendly. Ask for Mark or Mick as your server and be sure to enjoy a cocktail with Eric and Kevin the bartenders.
If you need a dose of good energy, visit with Tammy, the manager. She's a delight. Try the Bento Box for your appetizer, the warm goat cheese salad and the Chilean Sea Bass for your entrée. Also visit Bar Amici located on Las Olas just next door to Cathode Ray (one of the many gay clubs). Good food, great location.
Speaking of clubs, there are ample opportunities to shake your groove thang. Georgie's Alibi in Wilton Manor is jam packed with locals and visitors alike. Start your party here! The natives are very friendly and you just might find a personal tour guide to show you the City. Cathode Ray on Las Olas starts late but finishes strong. Great music and lots of room to dance. If the music doesn't get your heart pumping, the hot bartenders will.
The Copa has been a fixture on the gay scene for over 27 years and still maintains its position as one of the top clubs in the area. With dancing, a game room, entertainment, videos, and cutting-edge sound and lighting, what more could you ask for?
Celebrating their 11th anniversary, the Eagle Bar is home to South Florida's Leather Bears. Located on Powerline Road (how appropriate), if you're into the smell or feel of leather, this is the place. The Coliseum is 'home to the most beautiful men in the world,' and features some very cool events. Check out their hot website at Coliseumnightclub.com for more information.
Time for bed! And here is where it gets tricky—there are so many great places to stay, from the larger, full-service hotels, to the more intimate men's guesthouses (over 30 of them). Understanding that each resort has a unique setting, I suggest you visit them online to find the perfect one. Here are a few to consider:
Coral Reef Guesthouse—owners Jeff and Frank are constantly refining this already spectacular property. Located in the beautiful Coral Ridge area, the Coral Reef is all about comfort. With a pristine heated pool and 14-man Jacuzzi, it's no wonder guests from around the world have made Coral Reef their preferred choice. Unmistakable style, unrivaled service. In a word—Paradise. Clothing Optional. CoralReefGuesthouse.com .
Blue Dolphin—Located just 15 minutes from Fort Lauderdale International Airport and 1 minute (walking) from the beach, The Blue Dolphin is host to gay travelers from all over the world. The facility is completely enclosed for your privacy and a large heated pool is located in the center courtyard where clothing is optional. BlueDolphinHotel.com .
Embassy Suites— Embassy Suites Hotel is an upscale all-suite hotel which is easily accessible to all that Fort Lauderdale has to offer. This Mediterranean-style hotel features 358 suites overlooking a tropical 12-story atrium, restaurant and bar. It is located within walking distance of many restaurants, shops and the excitement of the Intracoastal waterway. EmbassySuitesFTL.com .
Windamar Beach Resort—The Windamar Beach Resort is owned and operated by the folks from the Townhouse of New York. This completely refurbished, upscale gay resort is located one block from the beach and just a short walk to the gay beach in Fort Lauderdale. Concierge service and 24-hour on-site management. Pet friendly. Clothing optional. WindamarBeachResort.com .
Worthington Guesthouse—Whether you're feeling fun and frisky or romantic and affectionate, The Worthington offers the perfect atmosphere for all. The sparkling heated pool and 12-man Jacuzzi are open 24 hours for your total enjoyment and the large private courtyard allows you to sit back and take in the overall beauty of their tropical palms, exotic flowers, and soothing fountains. TheWorthington.com .
Royal Palms—Since opening in 1995, the Royal Palms offers the highest standards of style and service. Discover a level of luxury, hospitality and attention to detail unmatched in gay accommodations. Tropical heated pool, 10-man spa, and tastefully designed rooms and suites. Clothing optional. RoyalPalms.com .
Orton Terrace— Ideally situated in the heart of Fort Lauderdale's gay lodging district just 325 yards from the beach. Your hosts offer a relaxing and friendly atmosphere for those travelers on vacation in Fort Lauderdale's Famous Central Beach, known best for Connie Francis's, song 'Where the Boys Are.' Take a short walk to the Sebastian Street Gay Beach, or lounge in their tropical clothing-optional courtyard. Visit them at OrtonTerrace.com .
With 23 miles of pristine beaches, more than 100 gay-owned establishments, and more than 30 hotels catering to the gay and lesbian market—is it any wonder that Ft. Lauderdale is one of the top gay resort destinations?
Plan your visit and discover what everyone is talking about!
For more information on all there is to do and sea in Ft. Lauderdale, visit MyGayWorld.com, GayFortLauderdaleResports.com and Sunny.org .