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PGA National Resort & Spa- West Palm Beach, FL
I must admit, PGA National Resort & Spa wasn’t a good fit for me. Demographically, it was mostly parents with small children, the pool was really crowded, and it was oddly expensive for a somewhat generic property. By way of example, two absolutely mix based Pina Coladas cost almost $50, which would be obscene even if they were made with fresh fruit. Which they definitely were not. That said, the golf courses were immaculate, wildlife was abundant, and it was warm in the winter, which really goes a long way- any port in a storm. Given the other options in the area, I doubt I would return, but the courses…
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The Lodge at Torrey Pines- La Jolla, CA
While I do prefer my hotels to be historic, I make exceptions. The Lodge at Torrey Pines is an excellent example. While it may have only been built in 2002, it was inspired by classic California architecture. Perched atop a bluff, overlooking the Pacific, it is also spectacularly scenic. Further, it’s located adjacent to the famous golf course of the same name. So yes, exceptions can be made. Designed by architect William Hughes, the dark, moody lodge immediately transports you back in time. Built in the Arts and Crafts style, it is modeled after several iconic properties designed by Greene & Greene, early 20th century architects known for their California…
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LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort- Naples, FL
My recent post about the Granville Inn uncovered a connection between the grand Jacobethan Revival Manor and the development of Naples, Florida. This got me thinking about the quaint seaside city. Contrary to popular belief, there are some extremely nice areas of Florida. Areas that combine mild winter weather, beautiful beaches and charming old construction; Naples is one of them. It’s no wonder why it is one of the most expensive areas in the country. And while there are many fabulous hotels in town, the sugar sand beach is where you want to be. In the throes of winter, few places are more pleasant than the LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort. LaPlaya…
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Ponte Vedra Inn & Club- Ponte Vedra, FL
Ponte Vendra Inn & Club harkens back to an era of big bands, shuffleboard, and elite snowbirds seeking sun. Founded first as a golf and social club nestled in a beachfront community, it quickly evolved into a popular exclusive seaside resort. Drawing upscale clientele from near and far, it was a sportsman paradise, where people blissfully mixed and mingled. At the turn of the last century, Ponte Vedra was a pristine expanse of sand dunes and palmetto trees, populated by more alligators than people. That would all change in 1912 when a large mineral vein was discovered under the dunes: vast amounts of rutile and ilmenite, titanium ores necessary for…
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Primland- Meadows of Dan, VA
Primland is nothing short of amazing. Perched high on a mountain ridge, miles even from the gated entrance, it is a secluded mountain paradise. If you are looking for a respite from today’s hectic world, look no further.
