Getting to the "Point": Fort Lauderdale's Most Elite Guest House & Resort

Fort Lauderdale, is located in the east-central portion of Broward County -- the county that had the country hanging by a "chad" during the 2000 presidential election when only 300 votes separated George W. Bush and Vice President Al Gore - on the Gold Coast 42 miles south of Palm Beach and 23 miles north of Miami. Encompassing more than 33 square miles, the city has long been recognized as a top resort destination, often called the "Venice of America."

Gracefully aging from a one-time bastion of Spring Break craziness to what's become a far more upscale playground for the revelry among a wider audience of enlightened gay travelers.

Blessed with over 3,000 hours of sunshine a year, Fort Lauderdale offers an outstanding quality of life, highlighted by a semi-tropical climate, rich natural beauty and array of cultural, entertainment and educational amenities. As the transformation into a thriving pleasure port, catering to individual yacht-owners and major cruise liners alike, it remains one of gay America's favorite domestic destinations.

VENUE:

Pineapple Point Guest House & Resort is a gay man's hotel, located in the Victoria Park neighborhood of Fort Lauderdale. A straight six-mile shot from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood Airport, Pineapple Point is ideally situated near downtown Fort Lauderdale at 315 NE 16th Terrance. The resort is located minutes from pristine beaches by foot or on bike, and is only a few short blocks away from the vibrant pulse of the city, Los Olas Boulevard.

This exceptional find is very highly ranked on major travel web sites. Once you are there it is clear that Pineapple Point is no ordinary resort. This superior Guest House & Resort offers the essence of a tranquil retreat. The meticulously maintained collection of rare tropical foliage, combined with a charming atmosphere --blending elements of the Caribbean, Mexico and the Mediterranean -- make for the warm welcome and enjoyable stay that awaits every guest.

A sparkling swimming pool, separate lap-pool and two rejuvenating whirlpools complement the exquisite setting (plus a villa with a private pool is available for those who want privacy).

WHAT TO EXPECT:

I have never had a bad room at Pineapple Point. Although the city has a wealth of superior lodging available, Pineapple Point is by far my favorite destination in the southeast. The property offers the modern comforts of an upscale boutique hotel, but the personal touches and the friendly welcome of a fine inn. The rooms are modern, bright and well-equipped. From a more intimate bungalow experience to a two-bedroom suite, Pineapple Point has a room configuration to fit any guest's needs.

The first thing I always check out when I get to my room is the internet connection. The resort offers a high-tech experience befitting a business hotel in a modern city. In addition to the resort's seamless Wi-Fi connection, there's a dedicated guest computer available 24-hours a day for those smart enough to leave their laptops at home. All rooms include a data port, access to voicemail, refrigerators, iron/ironing boards, AM/FM/CD radio system, TV/DVD and blow dryers -- this last trip I had one of the amazing suites which included a full kitchen -with everything from a toaster to a microwave -- and washer and dryer.

The complimentary continental breakfast in the main building is always a great place to meet fellow guests. The selection of breakfast offerings include hot/cold cereals, breads, pastries, hard-boiled eggs, yogurt, and fresh fruit - freshly sliced, not simply lifeless in a bowl - and a large selection of coffees and teas. They offer by far the most generous spread I've ever experiences at a resort.

Spending time in the "Great Room" or "Sun Porch" also allows for the perfect opportunity to meet fellow out-of-towners. The quiet, relaxing extensions to the resort includes a wide selection of magazines, newspapers, books, videos and games. In addition to the New York Times, you can pick-up copies of current local entertainment guides and papers.

The daily, pool-side happy hour offers another opportunity to interact with and meet other guests. Enjoying wine, cheese & crackers, and a selection of munchies ala fresco adds to the unique experience for couples and singles alike. For those more interested in keeping up their gym routine while on vacation, a nice gym nestled in one of the cabanas is available. I prefer a jog through the beautiful Victoria Park neighborhood which is a wonderful way to work off the great food at the local Ft. Lauderdale eateries.

AT YOUR SERVICE:

Guest wellbeing is clearly the focus at Pineapple Point. The large-hearted owners Phil Quattrone and Judd Chapman - assisted by General Manager Lincoln Pirkle -- have truly set the bar on first class service. While the amenities are truly topnotch, it is the friendly staff that makes the Pineapple Point experience so memorable. The high-quality of attention and level of warm hospitality provided by every member of the team, is unmatched by any other gay resort in the country.

The team keeps a profile on each guest, including likes and dislikes -- the type of coffee you'd like delivered with your newspaper to the room each morning, to the type of pillow you'd like waiting for you when you get into your king size bed. I especially appreciate this, as my partner can only sleep on feather pillows.

Special deals, such as the "Welcome to Paradise," "Romance/Anniversary," "Birthday/Special occasion," and "Good Morning Sunshine!" add to a menu of packages offered exclusively by the resort.

From keeping plenty of towels stacked around the pools and hot tubs, to buckets of bottled water, lemon aid and hand-delivered pool-side popsicles, every detail has been thoughtfully considered.

If you are looking for a gay men's hotel that offers charming, elegant and refined service, search no further than Pineapple Point.