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Fort Lauderdale is renowned for its vast and unique network of canals as well as its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, so it's really a paradise for boating fans. When you sign on for a Fort Lauderdale boat tour, you'll be able to kick back and relax as you drink in the beauty of this coastal city's scenic waterways. There are amazing boat tours of the area available, one of which will suit your preferences and schedule to perfection. Fort Lauderdale Family Pirate Cruise If you're a parent and you're looking for a shorter boat tour that's family-friendly, you'll love what the Fort Lauderdale Family Pirate Cruise has to offer. This lighthearted family boat cruise lasts for one hour and 30 minutes and it has a variety of departure times, so you'll have no trouble fitting it into your vacation itinerary. When you choose this cruise, you and your family will board the Bluefoot pirate ship at Fort Lauderdale's Bahia Mar Beach Resort and Yachting Center. The Bluefoot is a safe vessel that's been inspected and certified by the U.S. Coast Guard. Your kids will love the ship's pirate flags as well as the fun activities that they access onboard, including face painting, a treasure hunt, and pirate lessons. Each child will get a pirate certificate and a treasure bag. Parents will appreciate the dazzling views of the city's gorgeous Intracoastal Waterway. Riverfront Cruises Venice of America Tour Did you know that Fort Lauderdale is often compared to Venice, Italy, thanks to its array of picturesque canals? When you take the Riverfront Cruises Venice of America Tour, you'll be able to board a well-appointed, shipshape, and spacious vessel at 301 SW 3rd Ave. in downtown Fort Lauderdale. The cruise will last for 90 minutes and you may enjoy splendid views of the city's famous waterways from the upper observation deck or the comfortable dining room. This popular cruise will be a perfect way to get the inside scoop on Fort Lauderdale's coastal way of life. You'll see a lot of gorgeous yachts and fancy homes along the way. Coastal Yacht Tours Private Yacht Cruise If you prefer an exclusive luxury vibe, you'll be pleased to know that Coastal Yacht Tours offers a Private Yacht Cruise experience that is decidedly upscale. When you opt for this experience, you'll cruise on a Marquis 690 yacht and spend two hours out on the water enjoying the sights and getting some sun. This cruise departs from Fort Lauderdale's Pier 66 Marina. Ideal for families or other groups, this private yachting adventure will make it so easy to see the most impressive waterfront eateries, large yachts, and mansions. A captain will ensure that you and your group are comfortable and happy. Bottled water, snacks, and soda will be provided. Now that you know about three fun Fort Lauderdale boat tours, all of which return to their starting points when they are finished, you'll be ready to enjoy a cruise that stimulates your senses and helps you to learn more about Fort Lauderdale's beautiful waterways. Image via Flickr by blueprnt12 used under CC By

Fort Lauderdale is renowned for its vast and unique network of canals as well as its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, so it's really a paradise for boating fans. When you sign on for a Fort Lauderdale boat tour, you'll be able to kick back and relax as you drink in the beauty of this coastal city's scenic waterways. There are amazing boat tours of the area available, one of which will suit your preferences and schedule to perfection. Fort Lauderdale Family Pirate Cruise If you're a parent and you're looking for a shorter boat tour that's family-friendly, you'll love what the Fort Lauderdale Family Pirate Cruise has to offer. This lighthearted family boat cruise lasts for one hour and 30 minutes and it has a variety of departure times, so you'll have no trouble fitting it into your vacation itinerary. When you choose this cruise, you and your family will board the Bluefoot pirate ship at Fort Lauderdale's Bahia Mar Beach Resort and Yachting Center. The Bluefoot is a safe vessel that's been inspected and certified by the U.S. Coast Guard. Your kids will love the ship's pirate flags as well as the fun activities that they access onboard, including face painting, a treasure hunt, and pirate lessons. Each child will get a pirate certificate and a treasure bag. Parents will appreciate the dazzling views of the city's gorgeous Intracoastal Waterway. Riverfront Cruises Venice of America Tour Did you know that Fort Lauderdale is often compared to Venice, Italy, thanks to its array of picturesque canals? When you take the Riverfront Cruises Venice of America Tour, you'll be able to board a well-appointed, shipshape, and spacious vessel at 301 SW 3rd Ave. in downtown Fort Lauderdale. The cruise will last for 90 minutes and you may enjoy splendid views of the city's famous waterways from the upper observation deck or the comfortable dining room. This popular cruise will be a perfect way to get the inside scoop on Fort Lauderdale's coastal way of life. You'll see a lot of gorgeous yachts and fancy homes along the way. Coastal Yacht Tours Private Yacht Cruise If you prefer an exclusive luxury vibe, you'll be pleased to know that Coastal Yacht Tours offers a Private Yacht Cruise experience that is decidedly upscale. When you opt for this experience, you'll cruise on a Marquis 690 yacht and spend two hours out on the water enjoying the sights and getting some sun. This cruise departs from Fort Lauderdale's Pier 66 Marina. Ideal for families or other groups, this private yachting adventure will make it so easy to see the most impressive waterfront eateries, large yachts, and mansions. A captain will ensure that you and your group are comfortable and happy. Bottled water, snacks, and soda will be provided. Now that you know about three fun Fort Lauderdale boat tours, all of which return to their starting points when they are finished, you'll be ready to enjoy a cruise that stimulates your senses and helps you to learn more about Fort Lauderdale's beautiful waterways. Image via Flickr by blueprnt12 used under CC By

Do you feel more relaxed on the water? Does the sun reflecting off the water make you smile? Explore the waterways around Fort Lauderdale while enjoying these fun activities. OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA Rent A Boat If you enjoy fishing, grab your gear and head for one of the many different fishing areas in the city. Due to its location, there are many deep water opportunities just off the coast of Fort Lauderdale. Bring your gear and a few strong friends to help you with your haul while you enjoy the open water. If you are looking for a boat without the fish, consider renting one to call home for the weekend. Before renting figure out who is sharing the space with you to determine the perfect vessel for your party. There are options for full-size boats as well as sailboats with a professional crew meaning you get to relax while they work. You can also rent a boat for a few hours to celebrate a special occasion such as an anniversary, birthday, or proposal. Learn to Surf Do the waves call to you? Grab your towel and your bathing suit or a rash guard and a pair of shorts and head for surf school. These lessons start on the sand as you learn how to pick out your equipment and balance on the board. You'll also learn about water safety and how to protect yourself in the waves. Once the class is ready, you'll progress from the sand into the water. Whether you are brand new to surfing or want to hone specific skills, the classes give you a chance to learn under watchful eyes. Bring your kids along for the lessons. This is one class they will not want to skip as you make family memories. Go Scuba Diving Have you ever wondered what life looked like under the sea? Take advantage of the clear water and go scuba diving. Whether you are a new diver or an experienced one, there are a variety of dive sites just off the coast. Some of the more popular dive locations include an area known as the "Hall of Fame." This site ranges from 15 to 30 feet deep and isn't far from the shoreline. Another intriguing site is the Lady Luck shipwreck located off of Pompano Beach. A 324-foot tanker sank on purpose and now houses an underwater casino scene for divers to explore. If you are new to diving, take advantage of the clear water and warm temperatures to learn how to dive safely. Scuba classes start in the pool so you can get comfortable seeing and breathing underwater. Once you are satisfied with the equipment and techniques, you can move to open water diving off the coast. Enjoy your time with friends and family while you disconnect from the world and reconnect with yourself. As always, don't forget to wear sunscreen. Nothing ruins a good day on the water like a bad sunburn! Image via Flickr by Daquella manera used under CC By

Do you feel more relaxed on the water? Does the sun reflecting off the water make you smile? Explore the waterways around Fort Lauderdale while enjoying these fun activities. OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA Rent A Boat If you enjoy fishing, grab your gear and head for one of the many different fishing areas in the city. Due to its location, there are many deep water opportunities just off the coast of Fort Lauderdale. Bring your gear and a few strong friends to help you with your haul while you enjoy the open water. If you are looking for a boat without the fish, consider renting one to call home for the weekend. Before renting figure out who is sharing the space with you to determine the perfect vessel for your party. There are options for full-size boats as well as sailboats with a professional crew meaning you get to relax while they work. You can also rent a boat for a few hours to celebrate a special occasion such as an anniversary, birthday, or proposal. Learn to Surf Do the waves call to you? Grab your towel and your bathing suit or a rash guard and a pair of shorts and head for surf school. These lessons start on the sand as you learn how to pick out your equipment and balance on the board. You'll also learn about water safety and how to protect yourself in the waves. Once the class is ready, you'll progress from the sand into the water. Whether you are brand new to surfing or want to hone specific skills, the classes give you a chance to learn under watchful eyes. Bring your kids along for the lessons. This is one class they will not want to skip as you make family memories. Go Scuba Diving Have you ever wondered what life looked like under the sea? Take advantage of the clear water and go scuba diving. Whether you are a new diver or an experienced one, there are a variety of dive sites just off the coast. Some of the more popular dive locations include an area known as the "Hall of Fame." This site ranges from 15 to 30 feet deep and isn't far from the shoreline. Another intriguing site is the Lady Luck shipwreck located off of Pompano Beach. A 324-foot tanker sank on purpose and now houses an underwater casino scene for divers to explore. If you are new to diving, take advantage of the clear water and warm temperatures to learn how to dive safely. Scuba classes start in the pool so you can get comfortable seeing and breathing underwater. Once you are satisfied with the equipment and techniques, you can move to open water diving off the coast. Enjoy your time with friends and family while you disconnect from the world and reconnect with yourself. As always, don't forget to wear sunscreen. Nothing ruins a good day on the water like a bad sunburn! Image via Flickr by Daquella manera used under CC By

The summer season in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is coming to a close, which means shoppers can score some great deals at the end of the season. If you're looking to pick up some of the hottest swimwear at bargain prices, check out these Fort Lauderdale swim shops. Perhaps you'll save enough to be able to get two or three swimwear styles for variety in your beach fashions. Splish Splash Bikini Splish Splash Bikini at 929 Sunrise Lane has been in business since 1984 and specializes in women's bikinis. The swim shop offers tops and bottoms in some of the best swimwear brands, such as Guria Beachwear, Swim Systems, Eldon, and Trina Turk. Shoppers report excellent service from friendly staff members who will recommend selections without pushing for sales. Splish Splash Bikini opens at 10 a.m. daily and closes at 7 p.m. Monday to Friday and 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Montce Swim Montce Swim, whose flagship store is in St. Lauderdale, sells a large variety of quality upscale swimwear styles, featuring both bikini tops and bottoms and one-piece suits in many patterns. The store stocks brands such as Tommi Floral and Palmilla Blanco and sells bikinis to celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez and Kendall Jenner. Beach apparel and accessories are available as well. Shoppers say it's hard to choose a swimsuit because of the number of options. Montce is at 731 NE Second Ave. Hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. Swimland Head to Swimland at 812 E. Las Olas Blvd. for designer suits by Lauren by Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors, Anne Cole, and more. The shop offers trendy bikinis as well as attractive one-piece suits in a wide variety of colors and patterns, including some patterns that are used for more than one style. Swimland is open Monday to Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Jypsea Local Jypsea Local features handcrafted bikinis made at the store, featuring fabrics that are unique to the company. Styles can also be customized by the owner, a Floridian woman. The store also features unique jewelry collections that are designed and made by local artists. Jypsea Local is located at 2711 E. Commercial Blvd. The store is open Tuesday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Heart of the City Heart of the City at 3120 E. Sunrise Blvd. sells boutique swimwear and is known for its striking handmade bikinis with available matching coverups. The shop also sells designer sunglasses, unique women's designer clothing from around the world, and men's clothing featuring jeans, shirts, blazers, and more. Hours are from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday. Look online for the best deals at each of these trendy Fort Lauderdale swim shops. Even if the regular prices are outside your budget, a great sale could put a fantastic bikini or one-piece within your reach. Image via Flickr by pasa47 used under CC By

The summer season in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is coming to a close, which means shoppers can score some great deals at the end of the season. If you're looking to pick up some of the hottest swimwear at bargain prices, check out these Fort Lauderdale swim shops. Perhaps you'll save enough to be able to get two or three swimwear styles for variety in your beach fashions. Splish Splash Bikini Splish Splash Bikini at 929 Sunrise Lane has been in business since 1984 and specializes in women's bikinis. The swim shop offers tops and bottoms in some of the best swimwear brands, such as Guria Beachwear, Swim Systems, Eldon, and Trina Turk. Shoppers report excellent service from friendly staff members who will recommend selections without pushing for sales. Splish Splash Bikini opens at 10 a.m. daily and closes at 7 p.m. Monday to Friday and 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Montce Swim Montce Swim, whose flagship store is in St. Lauderdale, sells a large variety of quality upscale swimwear styles, featuring both bikini tops and bottoms and one-piece suits in many patterns. The store stocks brands such as Tommi Floral and Palmilla Blanco and sells bikinis to celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez and Kendall Jenner. Beach apparel and accessories are available as well. Shoppers say it's hard to choose a swimsuit because of the number of options. Montce is at 731 NE Second Ave. Hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. Swimland Head to Swimland at 812 E. Las Olas Blvd. for designer suits by Lauren by Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors, Anne Cole, and more. The shop offers trendy bikinis as well as attractive one-piece suits in a wide variety of colors and patterns, including some patterns that are used for more than one style. Swimland is open Monday to Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Jypsea Local Jypsea Local features handcrafted bikinis made at the store, featuring fabrics that are unique to the company. Styles can also be customized by the owner, a Floridian woman. The store also features unique jewelry collections that are designed and made by local artists. Jypsea Local is located at 2711 E. Commercial Blvd. The store is open Tuesday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Heart of the City Heart of the City at 3120 E. Sunrise Blvd. sells boutique swimwear and is known for its striking handmade bikinis with available matching coverups. The shop also sells designer sunglasses, unique women's designer clothing from around the world, and men's clothing featuring jeans, shirts, blazers, and more. Hours are from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday. Look online for the best deals at each of these trendy Fort Lauderdale swim shops. Even if the regular prices are outside your budget, a great sale could put a fantastic bikini or one-piece within your reach. Image via Flickr by pasa47 used under CC By

We all lead busy lives, but it's important to make time for fun, family, and friends. We've selected a few fall events happening here in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for you to consider putting on your calendar. We hope you find something you'll enjoy. Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale Fall Festival Say goodbye to summer and usher in fall Sept. 21 at the Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale Fall Festival. The event will be held at Esplanade Park, located at 400 SW Second St. in downtown Fort Lauderdale. The free family-friendly festival, which runs from noon to 4 p.m., will feature carnival-style games and activities in a fall theme, live entertainment, and fall-themed foods from food vendors and food trucks. The 2.46-acre Esplanade Park meanders along the Riverwalk, offering scenic views and numerous events throughout the year. Old School Latin Block Party The Old School Latin Block Party will bring you the best in Latin music on Oct. 19, with entertainment by Nuevolution Dance Studios, a well-known Latin dance and fitness school. The free outdoor event will take place at the Fountain Plaza at The Shops at Pembroke Gardens in nearby Pembroke Pines. The party starts at 9 p.m. and goes until 2 a.m. Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show More than 110,000 boat enthusiasts from around the world are expected to attend the 60th annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show Oct. 30 through Nov. 3. More than 1,500 of the latest boats and yachts in all sizes will be on display, and 1,200 exhibitors will be on hand. The event represents 52 countries and features 6 miles of floating docks and 3 million square feet of exhibition space in seven locations.  Hours are noon to 7 p.m. Oct. 30, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Oct. 21 and Nov. 1 and 2, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Nov. 3. The main location is the Bahia Mar Yachting Center at 801 Seabreeze Blvd. Other locations are Hall of Fame Marina, Las Olas Marina, Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center/Sailfish Pavilion, SuperYacht Village at Pier South, The Sails Marina, and Fort Lauderdale Hilton Marina. Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival The 34th annual Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival will give you ample opportunities to experience the joys of independent films. Put on by the Broward County Film Society since 1986, the award-winning festival is the longest-running film festival in the world. This year's event runs from Nov. 1-17. Accompanying activities include an opening-night party at the Museum of Discovery & Science IMAX, a dinner cruise Nov. 11 from Savor Cinema on the New River, and a FLIFF Woodstock Street Party Nov. 16 on the street in front of Savor Cinema. These are just a few of the many events in and around Fort Lauderdale. You'll never run out of things to do here in this boating and beaches paradise. Be sure to spend some time at The Strip and its restaurants, bars, boutiques, and upscale hotels, and check out the International Swimming Hall of Fame and Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. Image via Flickr by daspader used under CC By

We all lead busy lives, but it's important to make time for fun, family, and friends. We've selected a few fall events happening here in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for you to consider putting on your calendar. We hope you find something you'll enjoy. Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale Fall Festival Say goodbye to summer and usher in fall Sept. 21 at the Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale Fall Festival. The event will be held at Esplanade Park, located at 400 SW Second St. in downtown Fort Lauderdale. The free family-friendly festival, which runs from noon to 4 p.m., will feature carnival-style games and activities in a fall theme, live entertainment, and fall-themed foods from food vendors and food trucks. The 2.46-acre Esplanade Park meanders along the Riverwalk, offering scenic views and numerous events throughout the year. Old School Latin Block Party The Old School Latin Block Party will bring you the best in Latin music on Oct. 19, with entertainment by Nuevolution Dance Studios, a well-known Latin dance and fitness school. The free outdoor event will take place at the Fountain Plaza at The Shops at Pembroke Gardens in nearby Pembroke Pines. The party starts at 9 p.m. and goes until 2 a.m. Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show More than 110,000 boat enthusiasts from around the world are expected to attend the 60th annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show Oct. 30 through Nov. 3. More than 1,500 of the latest boats and yachts in all sizes will be on display, and 1,200 exhibitors will be on hand. The event represents 52 countries and features 6 miles of floating docks and 3 million square feet of exhibition space in seven locations.  Hours are noon to 7 p.m. Oct. 30, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Oct. 21 and Nov. 1 and 2, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Nov. 3. The main location is the Bahia Mar Yachting Center at 801 Seabreeze Blvd. Other locations are Hall of Fame Marina, Las Olas Marina, Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center/Sailfish Pavilion, SuperYacht Village at Pier South, The Sails Marina, and Fort Lauderdale Hilton Marina. Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival The 34th annual Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival will give you ample opportunities to experience the joys of independent films. Put on by the Broward County Film Society since 1986, the award-winning festival is the longest-running film festival in the world. This year's event runs from Nov. 1-17. Accompanying activities include an opening-night party at the Museum of Discovery & Science IMAX, a dinner cruise Nov. 11 from Savor Cinema on the New River, and a FLIFF Woodstock Street Party Nov. 16 on the street in front of Savor Cinema. These are just a few of the many events in and around Fort Lauderdale. You'll never run out of things to do here in this boating and beaches paradise. Be sure to spend some time at The Strip and its restaurants, bars, boutiques, and upscale hotels, and check out the International Swimming Hall of Fame and Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. Image via Flickr by daspader used under CC By

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is such a great place to be. With a lively beach community that features so many food, music and arts festivals, the only question is which ones to attend. And there is so much to see and do you might find yourself wishing for more free time. Here are some must-see festivals that take place in Fort Lauderdale every year that are sure to make the time well spent. Tortuga Beach Music Festival If live music is your jam you'll want to check out the Tortuga Beach Music Festival. It happens every April at the beautiful Fort Lauderdale Beach Park. This gorgeous white sand paradise is host to some of the best country, rock, and roots bands in the country. What's more, the festival is partnered with Rock the Ocean Foundation which helps to raise awareness about issues impacting the world's oceans. With over $1 million given to conservation efforts through ticket sales and donations, this festival is truly unique. Last year's festival featured performances from superstars Kenny Chesney, Jason Aldean, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Flo Rida, Sheryl Crow, and many more. The lineup for the next festival hasn't been released yet, but you can check out the Tortuga Music Festival website for dates and details as they become available. Las Olas Wine and Food Festival The Las Olas Wine and Food Festival has been delighting epicureans of South Florida for over twenty years. Held every spring, the festival hosts thousands of food and wine enthusiasts while raising money for a good cause, the American Lung Association. While there, you absolutely must partake in the tasting pavilion which features over 50 restaurants from the greater Fort Lauderdale area showing off their finest food creations. The event also features tastings of over 200 wines, spirits, and brews, so there's something to satisfy everyone's palate. When you're done tasting you can check out some of the great entertainment like last year's Silent Disco Party or Rythm & Viines' ever-popular music shows. Las Olas Art Fair For over 30 years the Las Olas Art Fair has been showing off some of the finest works by local artists and artisans. Located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, Las Olas Boulevard is already well known for its sidewalk cafes, art galleries, and boutiques. This year the fair takes place on Saturday and Sunday, October 19 and 20, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Best of all, admission is free. Come down and browse the handcrafted work from local artisans. Admire the artwork from hundreds of local artists. You can talk with the artists and artisans about their techniques and inspiration and purchase items at reasonable prices. Ranked one of the top 100 art festivals in the country, the Las Olas Art Fair is a great way to spend the day. Fort Lauderdale has so much to see and do. Whether your taste is music, food and wine, or arts and crafts, there is an event that is sure to excite you. Image via Flickr by Steve's stills used under CC By

Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is such a great place to be. With a lively beach community that features so many food, music and arts festivals, the only question is which ones to attend. And there is so much to see and do you might find yourself wishing for more free time. Here are some must-see festivals that take place in Fort Lauderdale every year that are sure to make the time well spent. Tortuga Beach Music Festival If live music is your jam you'll want to check out the Tortuga Beach Music Festival. It happens every April at the beautiful Fort Lauderdale Beach Park. This gorgeous white sand paradise is host to some of the best country, rock, and roots bands in the country. What's more, the festival is partnered with Rock the Ocean Foundation which helps to raise awareness about issues impacting the world's oceans. With over $1 million given to conservation efforts through ticket sales and donations, this festival is truly unique. Last year's festival featured performances from superstars Kenny Chesney, Jason Aldean, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Flo Rida, Sheryl Crow, and many more. The lineup for the next festival hasn't been released yet, but you can check out the Tortuga Music Festival website for dates and details as they become available. Las Olas Wine and Food Festival The Las Olas Wine and Food Festival has been delighting epicureans of South Florida for over twenty years. Held every spring, the festival hosts thousands of food and wine enthusiasts while raising money for a good cause, the American Lung Association. While there, you absolutely must partake in the tasting pavilion which features over 50 restaurants from the greater Fort Lauderdale area showing off their finest food creations. The event also features tastings of over 200 wines, spirits, and brews, so there's something to satisfy everyone's palate. When you're done tasting you can check out some of the great entertainment like last year's Silent Disco Party or Rythm & Viines' ever-popular music shows. Las Olas Art Fair For over 30 years the Las Olas Art Fair has been showing off some of the finest works by local artists and artisans. Located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, Las Olas Boulevard is already well known for its sidewalk cafes, art galleries, and boutiques. This year the fair takes place on Saturday and Sunday, October 19 and 20, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Best of all, admission is free. Come down and browse the handcrafted work from local artisans. Admire the artwork from hundreds of local artists. You can talk with the artists and artisans about their techniques and inspiration and purchase items at reasonable prices. Ranked one of the top 100 art festivals in the country, the Las Olas Art Fair is a great way to spend the day. Fort Lauderdale has so much to see and do. Whether your taste is music, food and wine, or arts and crafts, there is an event that is sure to excite you. Image via Flickr by Steve's stills used under CC By

Image by vonpics from Pixabay Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is one of the top vacation spots in the country. No matter what your budget or interests, you're sure to find something to make your holiday a memorable one. From the glitz and glamour of five-star hotels to affordable, yet cozy bed-and-breakfasts or something in between, Fort Lauderdale has accommodation for every type of traveler. Island Sands Inn Wilton Manors A TripAdvisor Five-Star award winner, Island Sands Inn Wilton Manors is a tropical and luxurious sanctuary just 2.5 miles from famed Fort Lauderdale Beach. It's walking distance from 15 bars and 18 restaurants, making it a comfortable stroll to grab a premium cocktail or get some of the area's finest seafood. Choose from condo, suite, or guest room depending on your budget. The best news is that each type of accommodation comes with free parking, complimentary Wi-FI, an exterior entrance, and a private bathroom. One of the few bed-and-breakfast options in the city, Island Sands also offers a heated saltwater pool for a lazy day away from it all. They'll also set up trips for you to the various attractions around Fort Lauderdale. Do nothing in your room, go for a dip, or head out on a fishing trip. The word is your oyster at Island Sands Inn. The Ritz-Carlton If you're a glutton for luxury, you'd be hard-pressed to find any hotel as opulent as the Ritz-Carlton. Situated on the Intracoastal Waterway, this beachfront property has arguably the best views of any hotel in the city. All hotel rooms have a balcony for a million-dollar gaze at the water, while an infinity pool and luxury spa treatments give the Ritz-Carlton a touch of class that leaves nothing to be desired. Select from a guest room, a suite, or a residential suite complete with a kitchen and living area to create an experience unlike any other. Rooms come with free Wi-Fi, designer toiletries, Egyptian cotton bedding, flat-screen televisions with cable programming, and decor that screams high-roller. Without a doubt, the Ritz is the place to go to be seen. Hotel Deauville Many Americans shy away from hostels when they travel, but these affordable hotels are an amazing way to save money and meet people from all over the world. Located 3 miles from Las Olas Boulevard, Hotel Deauville is a bit off the beaten path, but with an Uber ride of just a few bucks, you can still save money over places in the city center. An open-air courtyard with a swimming pool is the centerpiece for this hostel, affording ample opportunity to fraternize with other guests or plan your next trip to one of the city's attractions or hot destinations. Free Wi-Fi, a barbecue area, and lounging chairs ensure you're never in your room for too long. If you choose to hang out inside, choose from dorm-style accommodation, single rooms, or private rooms with an en suite bathroom. Whether you love room service at midnight, a quiet place away from the crowds, or something right on Las Olas Boulevard, you can get it all on a weekend trip or a month-long getaway in Fort Lauderdale.

Image by vonpics from Pixabay Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is one of the top vacation spots in the country. No matter what your budget or interests, you're sure to find something to make your holiday a memorable one. From the glitz and glamour of five-star hotels to affordable, yet cozy bed-and-breakfasts or something in between, Fort Lauderdale has accommodation for every type of traveler. Island Sands Inn Wilton Manors A TripAdvisor Five-Star award winner, Island Sands Inn Wilton Manors is a tropical and luxurious sanctuary just 2.5 miles from famed Fort Lauderdale Beach. It's walking distance from 15 bars and 18 restaurants, making it a comfortable stroll to grab a premium cocktail or get some of the area's finest seafood. Choose from condo, suite, or guest room depending on your budget. The best news is that each type of accommodation comes with free parking, complimentary Wi-FI, an exterior entrance, and a private bathroom. One of the few bed-and-breakfast options in the city, Island Sands also offers a heated saltwater pool for a lazy day away from it all. They'll also set up trips for you to the various attractions around Fort Lauderdale. Do nothing in your room, go for a dip, or head out on a fishing trip. The word is your oyster at Island Sands Inn. The Ritz-Carlton If you're a glutton for luxury, you'd be hard-pressed to find any hotel as opulent as the Ritz-Carlton. Situated on the Intracoastal Waterway, this beachfront property has arguably the best views of any hotel in the city. All hotel rooms have a balcony for a million-dollar gaze at the water, while an infinity pool and luxury spa treatments give the Ritz-Carlton a touch of class that leaves nothing to be desired. Select from a guest room, a suite, or a residential suite complete with a kitchen and living area to create an experience unlike any other. Rooms come with free Wi-Fi, designer toiletries, Egyptian cotton bedding, flat-screen televisions with cable programming, and decor that screams high-roller. Without a doubt, the Ritz is the place to go to be seen. Hotel Deauville Many Americans shy away from hostels when they travel, but these affordable hotels are an amazing way to save money and meet people from all over the world. Located 3 miles from Las Olas Boulevard, Hotel Deauville is a bit off the beaten path, but with an Uber ride of just a few bucks, you can still save money over places in the city center. An open-air courtyard with a swimming pool is the centerpiece for this hostel, affording ample opportunity to fraternize with other guests or plan your next trip to one of the city's attractions or hot destinations. Free Wi-Fi, a barbecue area, and lounging chairs ensure you're never in your room for too long. If you choose to hang out inside, choose from dorm-style accommodation, single rooms, or private rooms with an en suite bathroom. Whether you love room service at midnight, a quiet place away from the crowds, or something right on Las Olas Boulevard, you can get it all on a weekend trip or a month-long getaway in Fort Lauderdale.