Where the boys are now
Sunday, 10 Aug, 2011
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Fort Lauderdale in Florida used to be known for its college spring breakers. It was so well established that movie-makers made it the site of “Where the Boys Are,” starring Annette Funicello.
But these days the South Florida city has been adding the kind of convention related facilities that add to its attractiveness for adults. What’s new there:
- A 17-story, 349-room Margaritaville resort was approved earlier this year to include 35,000 square feet of convention space and an entertainment venue not yet announced.
- The 600,000 square foot Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center is undergoing a US$3 million revamping that will enable it to be LEED-certified by the end of the year.
- The recently opened B Ocean Fort Lauderdale has 236 rooms and includes 8,000 square feet of meeting space with two full-service restaurants and an infinity pool.
- Greater Fort Lauderdale is celebrating its 100th birthday with various events including rental of the 1920s estate the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens. It can accommodate up to 350 meeting-goers.
- JetBlue added nonstop service to the area from Los Angeles.
- Virgin American now offers daily nonstop flights from Fort Lauderdale to West Coast destinations.
By David Wilkening
David
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