Port Everglades, FL, USA cruises
Fort Lauderdale was named for the series of forts built on this stretch of swampy shore in the 1700s for protection against Seminole Indians. In the late 1800s, the boggy land was repurposed by digging out a series of canals to leave long strips of land in between. This created a greater habitable area as well as 300 miles of waterways. And so the ‘Venice of America’ was born. Today these man-made inlets have millionaire yachts moored along their banks and lavish mansions at their edge.
By contrast, the Everglades remain an untamed source of wonder and curiosity. This network of waterways is home to over 350 species of bird, 300 varieties of fish and elusive creatures like the Florida panther, the American crocodile, and the West Indian manatee. An airboat skimming across the surface of the ‘sea of grass’ is both an iconic image of the area and a thrilling experience for you here. You may even have an opportunity to visit an authentic Seminole village which showcases their traditional houses and their craftsmanship.
The Flamingo Gardens and Wildlife Sanctuary is a stretch of greenery within the metropolitan area of eastern Florida. Set in 60 acres of tropical landscapes, it takes in injured animals that cannot be released back into the wild, everything from otters to alligators and bobcats to bears.
The Fort Lauderdale Beach Promenade is a fabulous place for a stroll. It’s separated from the broad, golden sands by its low ‘wave’ wall which snakes between palm trees and doubles as a handy place to sit and watch the rollerbladers, joggers, beach volleyball players and jetskiers in action. Virtually at right angles to the promenade is Las Olas Boulevard. It’s a vibrant hub of activity, lined with palm trees, stylish boutiques, galleries and eateries.
The Museum of Discovery & Science is well worth calling in for, with fascinating exhibits on local history and wildlife, including the prehistoric variety. The NSU Art Museum will be of interest too, as much for its curved modernist architecture as for the contemporary collections housed within. The Bonnet House Museum and Gardens transports you back in time as you discover the dreamily ornate mansion house from days gone by set in pristine grounds.
Fort Lauderdale is part of the Miami metropolitan area, and Miami itself might be the main focus of your time here. After a Cuban coffee, the Maximo Gomez Park and Calle Ocho Walk of Fame may be highlights from a wander around Little Havana. Naturally, no visit to Miami would be complete without a dash of Art Deco flamboyance. Around South Beach, you’ll find an abundance of candy coloured buildings, such as The Marlin Hotel, The Webster and The Carlyle.