OT~I need help planning a FL trip

Hi, I am from the California board. I have been trying to get surgery for two years and I am nearly there. I told myself "no more beaches until I lose weight!" but my daughter really wants to take a trip with me and this may be the last time she asks. (She is 15) So, my daughter, her friend (14) and I am heading for Florida for the first time the end of this month for eight days. We arrive in Fort Lauderdale. All I know is that I want to see the everglades and the girls want to explore the nicest beaches. That is the extent of my knowledge. Can anyone advise me on where to stay on the beach in Ft. L and other locations and things to see? Our hotel budget is CHEAP. I can go up to $120.00 a night for something really nice on the beach for a couple of nights. What are your favorite places south of Ft. Lauderdale. Advise please.

Gail, I live a little South of Fort Lauderdale in Miami. I'm not real sure about the hotels available on the beach...I would probably try searching some of the vacation services (Travelocity...etc). There is a quaint little area called Los Olas which is along the river. It has some unique dining places and some are within reason price wise. If you want a fun day of shopping you need to find your way to Sawgrass Mills. I'd plan for the entire day and still you won't see it all. You will be about 3 hrs. south of the Orlando area which has Disney, Universal, Seaworld, etc. An airboat ride in the Everglades is already on your list of things to do....that's good. I enjoyed that. In Miami, of course, there is So. Beach (may be a little riske'...you would have to judge)....Miami attractions that are close are Parrot Jungle and the Miami Sea Aquarium. Hope this gives you an idea of what you might be able to research further. luvitsunnyv

Thanks for the advice. We are searching web sites and maps for clues on where to stay. We will probably spend most time in Ft. L. at the end of the trip to be certain to catch our flight. Should we attempt the Keys?

Hi, I visited there in April 2002 while my sister had gastric bypass there by dr Marema. Please be careful the ocean is really rough there, ITs great for sunning. PLenty of cheap hotel there inland but on beach a bit pricey. I stayed at a cheap resort old, for 79.00 nite but it was on beach. i found it at McDonalds discount booklet. When are you going, May is perfect weather here. I like Gulf side of Florida better not so rough. Treasure island beach , Clearwater are teenagers favorites. Sarasota and Bradenton is cheap too. We go to Englewood beach each June and Sept, pretty dead and private. Good luck on your surgery. My surgery was 17 yrs this august. Gail

Thanks for the advice, Gail. I don't like big surf since none of us are strong swimmers. I will check out the gulf. Congratulations on 17 years of success. I love to hear that! Gail

Hi I live 20 minutes southwest of Ft Lauderdale, there is a cruise you can take on the water, its called Jungle Queen. Its fun they tell you points of interest. Its over in Bahimi Bar Marina (spelling) ...I just looked up the phone# 954-581-9208... I agree with the first post from Luvitsunny. Sawgrass Mill Mall is the fun place to hit, there are some theme restarants and tons of shopping. Its not far from the beach. ENJOY the weather wil be good. Priscilla

Thank you Priscilla. I know I have to spend time shopping with these girls. (not my fav activity) The Jungle Queen sounds fun. ~Gail

I love window shopping there it was great. I stayed at the Holiday in on the beach and the Concige(spelling) had great cheap places for food and entertainment. Enjoy!!!!

Have a fun trip with your family. When is your surgery? I am so grateful for my DR. and I was lucky enough to be able to have this surgery in 1989. Only 3 DR offered it then in USA> It is not a easy way out for sure. But best choice i made. It has helped me fight the obesity. My 2 sisters and niece have had it recently. You must committ and sign a contract with yourself to do everything I mean everything your dr says. Or you wont be successful. [email protected]