Entering 2020, the luxury resort picture is sunnier than ever in the Sunshine State, especially in the upscale traveler magnets of Palm Beach County and the Florida Keys. Here’s a sampling of what we’re excited about.
In June, Amrit Ocean Resort & Residences on Singer Island is set to welcome guests who are seeking a luxury, unplug-and-recharge wellness getaway. Developed in partnership with ESPA and the Himalayan Institute, Amrit (which means “elixir of life” in Sanskrit) merges Eastern traditions and inner science with Western luxury, enhanced through modern technologies and personalized programming. A 100,000-square-foot spa and wellness facility includes 28 treatment rooms, a meditation garden and outdoor yoga studios. Several gourmet dining options serve naturally fresh and clean cuisine.
The 155 wellness-focused guestrooms and suites have ocean-view terraces, circadian rhythm lighting and freestanding bathtubs wherein guests can enjoy a personalized aromatherapy bath, compliments of a Bath Concierge. To learn more, get in touch with Terry Buchholz (terry@amritocean.com), co-general manager, hotel division.
Within the next few months, the quaint, boutique White Elephant Palm Beach will open 32 rooms, including two Penthouse suites with rooftop terraces and coastal views. The historic harborside property, with its contemporary interpretation of Mediterranean-revival architecture design, originally opened in the 1920s as the Bradley Park Hotel. Amenities include a full-service restaurant and a variety of kid-friendly activities, as well as concierge and wedding services.
The property’s layout takes advantage of outdoor spaces, including a U-shaped outdoor courtyard, which will be the social heart of the hotel and the setting for an inviting pool environment with outdoor seating. Signature restaurant Lola 41 will serve globally inspired cuisine and cocktails. Advisors can direct their enquiries to Gil Cortes (GCortes@WhiteElephantPalmBeach.com), rooms division manager.
Little Palm Island Resort & Spa will have 15 redesigned thatched-roof bungalows.
A best-kept secret for U.S. presidents and celebrities, Little Palm Island Resort & Spa will begin welcoming guests on March 1. A 20-minute boat ride off the coast of Little Torch Key, on a lush private island, the resort — part of the Noble House Hotels & Resorts collection — has been re-imagined following a two-and-a-half-year closure as a result of Hurricane Irma. Each of the 15 redesigned thatched-roof bungalows provides ocean views and plush, all-new interiors.
Private cabanas have been added to the oceanfront pool area and the well-loved Palapa Bar will be returning. Crushed seashell paths wind through the resort’s five-plus acres, enabling guests to spot countless bird species, endangered Key deer, green iguanas and playful dolphins. Many exclusive activities are available, from seaplane tours to reef snorkeling, and the resort will maintain its tradition of keeping TVs and phones out of the guestrooms and public areas.
For details, reach out to Michelle Sehulster (msehulster@noblehousehotels.com), Noble House’s director of travel industry sales.
An Island Premier Suite at Little Palm Island Resort & Spa.
For Florida-bound luxury clients seeking a carefree, adults-only, all-inclusive experience, Bungalows Key Largo reopened last month. The first-ever all-inclusive in the Keys, this upscale, boutique, waterfront resort comprises 135 private bungalows dotted across 12 acres. Each bungalow has its own bougainvillea-laden veranda with an oversized soaking tub in which to luxuriate, as well as an outdoor garden shower.
Active, lifestyle-focused travelers can take advantage of two Huffy bicycles provided with each bungalow, a Fitness Tiki Hut with Peloton equipment, daily morning yoga and an array of aquatic activities, such as snorkeling and paddle boarding. Electric Duffy boats, a 56-foot sailing catamaran, Lady B, and a 40-foot Intrepid powerboat are available for private charters and fishing expeditions. Dining option include Bogie & Bacall’s (fine cuisine and wine pairings), the beachside Sea Señor (Mexican fare) and Fish Tales (seafood).
Discerning travelers can opt to arrive via seaplane: Bungalows Key Largo is now in partnership with Tropic Ocean Air, offering flights from Shelter Aviation located adjacent to Fort Lauderdale International.
For general queries and sales, reach out to Chad Bustos (chad@resortjh.com). Cynthia Costa (cynthia@bungalowskeylargo.com) is the point person for travel professional support.
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