Plaza Hotel Fort Lauderdale: Your Luxurious Escape Awaits!

Plaza Hotel Fort Lauderdale: My Floundering-in-Luxury Adventures

Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I just crawled out of a stay at the Plaza Hotel Fort Lauderdale, and I'm still trying to process the sheer volume of… well, everything. They say "Your Luxurious Escape Awaits!" – and, folks, they ain't lyin'. But luxurious? It was more like a delightful, chaotic, slightly embarrassing adventure in luxury, a real rollercoaster of bliss and minor mishaps. Let's dive in, shall we?

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The Initial Impression: Bling, Beach, and… A Touch of Panic

First things first: getting there. They offer airport transfer, which is a lifesaver (especially after a flight where the guy next to me kept loudly consuming peanuts like he was starring in a squirrel-themed biopic). The hotel itself? Pure, unadulterated glitz. Picture a shimmering beacon of glass and… well, more glass. The exterior corridor felt a bit less glamorous, tbh, reminding me momentarily of my own slightly-less-glamorous apartment building back home. Inside, though? Boom. The front desk [24-hour] was a blur of polished smiles and efficient check-in. Contactless check-in/out was a welcome touch in these weird times, and I appreciated the sheer lack of fumbling with pens and germ-laden clipboards. Pro tip: the elevator is your friend. Seriously. Especially if you're like me and have a slight aversion to stairs after a particularly enthusiastic brunch.

Accessibility & The (Sometimes) Awkward Dance of Inclusion

Now, on to something really important: Accessibility. This is HUGE for me. The hotel boasted facilities for disabled guests, and that's a win. I'd give them a solid B+ here. The public areas are generally wheelchair accessible, including the restaurants. The elevator is essential, and I saw plenty of friendly staff willing to help with doors, etc. I'll add, though, that navigating some of the hallways with my ridiculously oversized suitcase (because, let's be honest, I'm terrible at packing light) was a slight test of endurance.

Rooms: My Sanctuary, My Prison (Sometimes)

My room? Pure bliss. Air conditioning that actually works (a luxury I’m not accustomed to!), a ridiculously comfortable extra long bed, and a window that opens, letting in the salty breeze. The blackout curtains? Absolute game-changer for a light sleeper like me (or, you know, anyone who enjoys sleep). Bonus points for the bathrobes, because who doesn't want to feel like a movie star while they sip their morning coffee? The in-room safe box and room sanitization opt-out available were thoughtful touches.

However… the bathroom phone? Seriously? Who uses a bathroom phone in 2024? It felt like a relic from a different era, like a rotary dial telephone left on a spaceship. Also, the slippers were a bit, shall we say, delicate. I lasted about an hour before I was tearing around barefoot, feeling like a carefree beach bum. And the complimentary tea? Excellent. Shame I couldn't find decent milk to go with it. Minor complaint, I know, but gotta be honest!

Food, Glorious Food (and a Few Stumbles)

Okay, the food. This is where the Plaza really tries to show off. They have a plethora of options. Let's start with the good. A hearty Western breakfast was my daily ritual, a buffet of deliciousness. I was delighted to explore the a la carte options. The coffee shop made a mean espresso. And the poolside bar was pure temptation – cocktails in the sun? Yes, please! The restaurants each had unique menus. The vegetarian restaurant was even a good choice, even for me, a meat-eater!

BUT… and there's always a "but," isn't there? Room service, while 24-hour, took… a while. Like, an hour and a half while I was STARVING. (Pro tip: order before you're hangry. Learn from my mistakes.). Plus, some of the Asian cuisine was a bit… bland. A little more spice wouldn't hurt, guys. The bottle of water… well, that's basic. I'd recommend bringing your own water bottle to fill up.

Relaxation and Recreation: Spa Day Dreams and Gym Failures

This is what I live for. The Spa. Oh, the Spa! I was utterly sold on the massage and the body scrub. Let me tell you, I walked in a stressed-out, slightly sunburned mess, and floated out feeling like a newborn unicorn. Heavenly. They also have a sauna, a steamroom, and a foot bath. Pure decadence.

The swimming pool [outdoor] was a total mood. The pool with a view? Absolutely stunning, a perfect place to have my first cocktail of the afternoon! The fitness center? That's where things got… interesting. Let’s just say I got lost trying to find it and I couldn’t quite master that one elliptical machine. My attempts at looking vaguely athletic were… less successful. I made a strategic retreat to the poolside bar.

COVID Considerations: Safety First (Mostly)

The hotel takes cleanliness and safety seriously! They were practicing a ton of hygiene and safety measures. Anti-viral cleaning products, daily disinfection in common areas, hand sanitizer EVERYWHERE. The staff were obviously very well-trained which gave me peace of mind. I appreciate the room sanitization. They also had individually-wrapped food options, safe dining setup, and staff trained in safety protocol.

Beyond the Basics: The Small Things That Matter

Okay, let's get into the nitty-gritty. Internet access? Good, solid wifi, free Wi-Fi in all rooms!, and Internet [LAN] options. The concierge was a lifesaver when I needed to locate the nearest pharmacy (thank you, overly enthusiastic sunbathing!). The gift/souvenir shop was a good place to grab that last-minute postcard.

The "Things To Do" Adventure:

They had plenty of options. I'm not the most adventurous person, but there were so many possibilities. They had things to do: from water sports to beach walks. It's a beach destination!

The Price of Paradise:

Look, this isn’t a budget hotel. You're paying for the luxury, the location, and the promise of some serious self-indulgence. Is it worth it? Depends on your priorities. If you want a pampered experience, where you’re practically forced to relax, and you don't mind splurging a bit, then yeah, absolutely.

Final Verdict: A Thumbs Up With a Side of… Well, Me Being Me

Would I go back? In a heartbeat. Despite the minor hiccups (the room service delivery time, my gym-related humiliation), the Plaza Hotel Fort Lauderdale delivered a top-tier experience. It’s a place where you can truly unwind, be utterly spoiled, and generally feel like you've stepped into a slightly surreal, incredibly luxurious, and occasionally hilarious dream. Just remember to bring your own milk, and maybe a good book to read while you wait for that room service. And definitely, definitely get a massage. You won't regret it.

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Plaza Hotel Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale (FL) United States

Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into my totally-unplanned, definitely-going-to-be-a-disaster, and hopefully-hilarious trip to the Plaza Hotel in Fort Lauderdale. It's gonna be less "polished travel itinerary" and more "chronicle of a nervous breakdown with a splash of sunscreen." Prepare for feels. And possibly regret.

The Grand (and Possibly Unhinged) Plaza Hotel Fort Lauderdale Adventure

Day 1: Arrival & The Great Pool Gamble

Morning (Approx. 9:00 AM): Wake up with a jolt, convinced I'm late. Probably am. Slam down lukewarm coffee – classic. Mentally berate myself for not packing the night before. Where is that swimsuit? (Cue frantic suitcase rummaging. I'm pretty sure I packed my passport, right? Right??)
Mid-Morning (11:00 AM): Finally, we arrive! The Plaza seems… nice. Like, really nice. Too nice? Am I going to be judged for my slightly-too-loud floral shirt? Oh god, this is going to be a fashionable horror story. The lobby is airy, that's a good start, and the front desk lady is surprisingly patient with my "where-do-I-even-start" energy.
Afternoon (1:00 PM): Room acquired! (Victory!) It's…clean. A bit bland, but clean! The view is the "city view," however, this is not the ocean view I paid for, I need to rectify this, But the first thing I need to do is the pool! Which is really the only reason I'm here. Seriously, what is it with pools that make everything temporarily better?
Afternoon (2:00 PM): The Pool! Ah, the glorious, chlorinated temptation. Sunblock applied with the haphazardness of a toddler. Now this where the plan falls apart. The pool is PACKED. Like, packed-with-people-doing-cannonballs-and-screaming-in-a-manner-that-suggests-they've-consumed-a-gallon-of-margaritas-already packed. I'm suddenly hit with a wave of social anxiety so strong, I consider hiding in the hotel room indefinitely. Fine. I will venture into the water.
Afternoon (3:00 PM): Pool conquered! Managed to snag a slightly-sun-drenched-but-mostly-shaded-patch. The water's surprisingly clean. I think I've found my people: a group of elderly ladies playing cards by the shallow end. Bless them.
Evening (6:00 PM): Dinner at… wherever. The hotel restaurant, probably. I'm tired. Ordering the most comforting, greasy, food item on the menu. No, I don't care if it's expensive. I deserve it.
Evening (8:00 PM): Stumbling back to the room, slightly tipsy and overly-optimistic. I might actually survive this trip… maybe.

Day 2: Beach Day, Botox Bros, and the Deep-Fried Regret

Morning (9:00 AM): Wake up. Head pounding. Ugh. Coffee is essential. Must. Get. Coffee. And a large, restorative breakfast. A buffet of questionable pastries awaits? Hell yes.
Morning (10:00 AM): Beach time! The beach is a short stroll from the hotel. The sun is beating down, the beach is stunning, the water is clear. I feel like I'm in a travel commercial, and I love it.
Afternoon (12:00 PM): I'm a beach veteran now. I know to apply sunscreen every hour, drink water, and avoid the "Botox Bros". Yes, they are real, and yes, they are everywhere. The sheer amount of self-tanner and perfectly sculpted pecs on display is enough to make anyone question their life choices.
Afternoon (2:00 PM): Lunch on the beach. This is a true experience. A hotdog is ordered. I love hotdogs, but the food is definitely not the greatest part of the experience… it's the ambiance. The air, the sand, the views… a simple lunch can become a moment.
Afternoon (4:00 PM): Pool, round two. And… it's still packed. I realize I have a problem. I need to learn to embrace chaos. Maybe the screaming is the point?
Evening (7:00 PM): Dinner is at that seafood place everyone raves about. I'm hoping it will redeem my day and make me feel posh.
Evening (9:00 PM): I walk back to the hotel, full of food but not of joy. The prices are high and the food is not exceptional. Where is the joy? Where is the magic?

Day 3: Adios (and the Questionable Souvenir)

Morning (9:00 AM): The end is nigh. I'm oddly sad. Packing is a nightmare. Where are those socks?
Morning (10:00 AM): One last, desperate attempt at the pool. The crowds have thinned. A glorious moment of peace washes over me. I embrace it.
Afternoon (12:00 PM): Brunch somewhere cute. Trying to soak up the last of the Floridian sunshine. Reflecting on the fact that I'll probably need another vacation to recover from this one.
Afternoon (2:00 PM): The souvenir shop! Because, obviously. I almost buy a ceramic seagull wearing sunglasses. (I have no idea why. It called to me. Don't judge.) I end up with something slightly less embarrassing. And then…
Afternoon (3:00 PM): Airport time. Goodbye, Plaza Hotel! I made it! I survived! I may have even (dare I say it?) enjoyed myself, despite all the chaos.
Evening (6:00 PM): On the plane! I have to confess: this was not my finest moment! But the memories? Priceless. (Except for the hotel bill. That was definitely pricey.)

This, my friends, is not a travel guide. This is a fever dream. May your own travels be less chaotic, yet just as memorable. Maybe I'll go back. Maybe I won't. But at least I have a story to tell. And some questionable souvenirs to prove it.

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Is the Plaza Hotel Fort Lauderdale actually luxurious? Like, really?

Okay, so "luxurious" is a word, right? Like, everyone uses it. But does it *mean* anything these days? At the Plaza, yes, I'd say it mostly does. Remember that episode of Friends where Chandler and Monica were in that ultra-fancy hotel? Well, it's *almost* that, but with a slightly more… Fort Lauderdale vibe. Think less marble floors and more sparkling pools, but the level of service? Pretty darn good. They’re *trying*. Don't expect perfection – I once saw a tiny rogue ant on the breakfast buffet. Tiny! But the omelets? Divine. That balances things out, wouldn't you say? And the views? Oh, honey, *the views*. Makes you forget all about that ant. Mostly. (I'm still judging you, ant.)

What kind of rooms can I expect? Are they terribly cramped?

Rooms are a mixed bag, honestly. Some are *gorgeous*: spacious, with balconies practically begging you to sip a cocktail at sunset. Others...well, they’re adequate. Perfectly clean, well-appointed, sure. But maybe a little… cozy? I once booked a 'City View' and got a view of a brick wall. Brick! I swear, I considered writing a strongly worded limerick to management. (I didn't. But the urge was *strong*). But the beds? Comfortable. Heavenly, even. And the bathrooms? Generally, pretty good. Just be prepared for a little variation. It’s part of the charm, I suppose (says the optimist, clinging to hope).

Tell me about the pool! Is it as Instagram-worthy as it looks?

The pool… alright, *the pool* is probably the main reason you're considering this place, isn't it? It's gorgeous. Seriously stunning. Yes, it *is* Instagram-worthy. Expect to fight for a decent spot, especially during peak season. I saw a woman once, bless her heart, spend a good hour strategically arranging her inflatable flamingo for the perfect shot. (Dedication, people! I approve!) But the water is crystal clear, the cocktails are flowing, and the sun… well, the Florida sun does its thing. It’s a good pool. Just, you know, bring your A-game to the sunbathing competition.

Is there a decent restaurant on-site? I'm not driving anywhere after a long day of laying in the sun.

Okay, so the restaurant situation… It's… *there.* It's convenient. You can stumble in, slightly sunburned, and get fed. The food is palatable, but I wouldn’t say it’s Michelin-star material. (Unless Michelin stars are now handed out for proximity to the pool. In which case, they're *winning*.) I had a truly *meh* pasta dish there once. Seriously, I could've made it better at home. But later that night, someone brought live music to the bar and I got a *really* good negroni, and all was forgiven. So, yeah. It’s a gamble. But, hey, the cocktails are legit. Prioritize your drinks.

What's the vibe like? Is it party central, or more of a chill, relaxing getaway?

It's a blend! Which, honestly, is the best way to describe it. You've got families, you've got couples, you've got groups having a blast, you have people getting rowdy by the pool, there are people nursing hangovers on the lounge chairs. There's a good mix of all of it. You could certainly find quieter corners if that's your thing – the beach is just a short walk, and that's generally a bit more serene. But if you’re looking for quiet, *maybe* consider earplugs. Just sayin'.

How's the beach access? Is it easy to get to?

Beach access is fantastic! A short, pleasant walk. I *love* that. You can grab a beach chair and umbrella from the hotel, which is super convenient. The sand is soft, the waves are… well, they're Florida waves. Not exactly surfing material, but perfect for a leisurely dip. I once walked on the beach at sunrise, and felt utterly and completely... peaceful. It was the best part of my trip. Okay, maybe the negroni was also a great part, but the beach. Seriously, the beach is everything. Go to the beach. Just go. You won’t regret it. The sun! The sand! The sound of the waves! *Sigh*. Back to wanting to live at the beach. (Can I get a room with a beach view, please?)

Are there any hidden fees I should be aware of?

Oh, you know it. The dreaded hidden fees. Yes, unfortunately, there are some. Resort fees, parking fees, the inevitable little extras that sneak onto your bill. It's the hotel industry's little game, right? Just be prepared. Factor them into your budget, otherwise, you might get a nasty surprise when you're checking out. Always ask about them *before* you check-in. It won’t make the fees disappear, but at least you won't be blindsided. (Speaking from experience, sadly.)

The most important question: Would you go back?

Would I go back? Hmmm… *yes*. Absolutely, yes. Despite the tiny ant, the slightly cramped room view, the… okay food, and the hidden fees, the good outweighs the bad. The pool. The beach. The negronis. The friendly staff (most of the time!). The feeling of being on vacation, even if it's just for a weekend. The Plaza Hotel isn't perfect, no. But it's a good time. I'd probably be back, even if just to stalk see the woman with the flamingo, because I have to know... did she get the shot?! Probably. That's the kind of place it is. Flawed, fun, and likely to leave you wanting to go back for more… and maybe another negroni. Because, honestly, who *doesn't* want a negroni? (Just me?) Okay. Fine.

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