Mid-Winter Fantasy

After spending the last 32 hours trapped at work due to another winter storm I can not think of anything else other than a nice quiet place to enjoy the sun, surf and sand. Bear with me as I regroup...awwwww.

Rediscovering Ft. Lauderdale

For many travelers Ft. Lauderdale has begun to pique their interest once again. There have been renovations at several area hotels and the social life continues to be quite active.

There are a number of clubs to keep your nightlife jumping, but Ft. Lauderdale has other activities as well. There is a gym, Club Ft. Lauderdale at 110 NW 5th Avenue, to rejuvenate yourself or to exhaust some penned up energy. The skate rink, Gold Coast Rollerink at 2604 S. Federal Highway, is gay on Tuesdays.

There are several beaches you may wish to enjoy. The Sebastian Street beach is a scenic location. The NE 18th Street beach is quite cruisy. If you enjoy clothing optional you should visit Haulover Beach.

The location of this gay town makes it convenient should you chose to take a side trip to Key West.

Accomodations include The Worthington Hotel. It is gay owned, located in "The Island," close to all gay nightlife, 5 minute walk to Sebastian Street beach. The Coral Reef Hotel is gay owned, has a pool, tropical environment, is clothing optional and includes complimentary breakfast.

Weekend Warm Up

Are you ready for a break from the winter storms and arctic winds? Here are some things to warm you up.

St. Maarten Wyndham Vacation with Air from $599.

7 night caribbean cruise from $375.

Bahamas 3 night cruise in February for $149.

Tuesday Temptation

Here is a break from all the desperation, drama and devestation in Haiti.

A Prayer...

The people of Haiti have always been resilient. Let's hope they can pull through this disaster and once again become people of hope and determination. I have always respected them for that.
Please see our links section to donate to a Haiti Relief Fund.

HAITI DEVASTATED!

Many reports are in from Haiti, the country that shares the island of Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic.

The DR's tourism officials are reporting that there was no real threat to nor any damage done in the DR, particularly to Punta Cana, the nations destination for monied travelers. Also, the DR is sending assistance to Haiti in the means of food, potable water, etc. There is a way to send donations as well. Look HERE for the latest updates.

Dominicans on Yahoo! are reporting school closings for today and that the Metro system was shuttered for precaution.

I find it curious that there has been no official statement from the DR's president that I'm aware of.
UPDATE January 15: Dominican President Leonel Fernadez has met with Haitian President Rene Preval along with Haitian Prime Minister Jean-Max Bellerive. Assistance provided to Haiti by the DR will include restoring electricity and water supplies. Fernandez also declared today and Saturday "Days Of National Mourning." Also, Fernandez met with US President Barack Obama to discuss partnering in various areas to provide assistance to Haiti. Way to go Leonel!

7.0

There has been a major earthquake in Haiti, just outside of the capital city of Port-Au-Prince. The quakes magnitude is initially being reported as 7.0! Authorities say there is "substantial damage and casualties."

It is the largest quake recorded in the area, which was also felt in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic and as far away as Cuba. A tsunami warning has been issued for the area so you may wish to check your travel arrangements if you had plans for the immediate future.

Read the full report HERE.

Amateur Fantasy

Vacation Planning 101

Be sure to visit the Travel Info Page for helpful tips when planning your vacation to the Dominican Republic. Click on the ads for great deals!

A New Beginning!