Posted 12:26 am Sunday, July 01, 2012
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South Florida's Scenic Delights Perfect Getaway
By KELLY GOOCH
Staff Writer
Staff Writer
Towering palm trees, rows of stores and turquoise ocean water sets the backdrop for a perfect summer escape in south Florida.
Whether you prefer quaint towns such as Delray Beach and Boca Raton or larger cities such as Miami, the region offers something for every taste.
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I started my recent trip with a visit to Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach. The street, which features various stores and restaurants, is lit up at night and was filled with people who seemed to enjoy the ambiance.
If you are an animal lover, I recommend stopping at Waggs to Riches, where you can check out pet supplies or look at puppies. Afterward, you can satisfy your sweet tooth at Orange Leaf yogurt shop. It was fun for me to simply take in the atmosphere.
Atlantic Avenue eventually leads to the ocean and a beach that is fit for young families. Although I got sunburned in the process, I enjoyed the lukewarm water and the seashells I found. You can simply soak up the sun on land or ride the waves on a surfboard.
During your visit to south Florida, you might also want to drive about 10 miles south to Boca Raton. The unique architecture downtown kept me looking out the car window as I arrived. The variety of colors on buildings particularly stood out.
Once downtown, I got to see a movie at the new iPic Theater, and I can honestly say it was the best movie experience I've had. I sat in a recliner that was comfortable enough for a long nap. I even got my own blanket, wait service and popcorn since I was in the premium-plus seating.
But the luxurious experience will cost you. Premium level tickets are $12 Monday through Thursday and $14 on the weekend. Premium-plus seats are $18 during the week and $24 on the weekend. But it's worth at least one trip. If you want to stay more local, you can visit an iPic theater in Austin or Fairview.
After the movie, I recommend eating at Tanzy restaurant nearby. I liked the lively environment, and the food was extremely fresh. Also, be sure to try Moet Red Carpet Glamour, the exclusive champagne cocktail of the 84th Academy Awards.
For a big city experience, take the Tri-Rail train to Miami. The train heads south and stops in Fort Lauderdale on the way.
A weekday roundtrip ticket from Boca Raton to the metrorail transfer station in Miami cost me $9.70. However, I still had to pay for another ticket to get to downtown.
Although I didn't spend a lot of time in Miami, I got to browse several shops on Washington Avenue. If you're looking for a nice area for walking, I recommend it.
For my next trip to south Florida, I want to visit West Palm Beach.
