HOTELS
Breakfast Secret to an Amazing
PELICAN GRAND BEACH RESORT | BY TIM COTRONEO
T
he Pelican Grand Beach Resort believes there is no better way to begin your vacation than with a delicious breakfast featuring an amazing ocean view. Think about it. From your table on Pelican Grand’s sweeping verandah, the resort’s Atlantic Ocean seascape welcomes guests with a playlist of ocean sounds. The rhythmic soundtrack soothes your soul as you sip a first cup of coffee. Your spirits lift as you take in the view and contemplate Pelican Grand’s many amenities and possible activities. As you bask in the morning sun, a Pelican Grand server approaches your table and inquires which breakfast entree sounds good today? You choose eggs benedict and a glass of freshly squeezed Florida orange juice. While gazing out at this picture-perfect setting, you reflect that this is a wonderful way to start your day. FEELS LIKE HOME
Your server mentions that Pelican Grand Beach Resort opened in 2004. Even though this 11-story hotel is less than two decades old, you feel a time-honored sense of South Florida history throughout the property. The hotel recently underwent a $7 million renovation. A key aspect to freshening the hotel’s 188 rooms was acknowledging the Florida charm of days gone by. Guests will note the beach vibe artwork in their suite, along with a pastel Smeg refrigerator. You’ll also see a grand
piano in the lobby, and white rocking chairs sitting on the verandah. All these gentle touches help make Pelican Grand feel like home.
southward, Pierri beamed and said, “The beach view you’re seeing stretches all the way to Miami.”
One hotel amenity that reinforces this friendly connection is the Emporium ice cream parlor. This 1950s-style flashback offers one dozen ice cream selections ranging from Salted Caramel to Strawberry Cheesecake, and Peanut Butter Fudge. You’ll also find coffee treats, gourmet bakery items, and their huggable stuffed pelican souvenir.
AN AFTERNOON DELIGHT
VIEW FROM ON TOP OF THE WORLD As a photography buff, you stop by the concierge station and ask which Pelican Grand vantage point offers the best view. She smiles and says, “Take the elevator to the 11th floor.” As luck would have it, Pelican Grand’s General Manager TJ Pierri walks up to push the elevator button just as you arrive. Pierri asks where you’re headed. When you say the 11th floor, Pierri offers to be your tour guide. Once the elevator doors open, Pierri shows his guest the Pelican Grand fitness center, as well as their Pure Spa. The Swedish-themed Pure Spa features a private Couples Massage room with wall-to-wall windows. The glass exterior provides an awesome view of the ocean and a sky so close it feels like you’re airborne. Next, Pierri leads his guest to the main event, the 11th floor rooftop that serves as a spectacular venue for celebrations such as weddings, receptions, and concerts. As his guest looks
92 | UPSCALE LIVING MAGAZINE | SUMMER 2022
As a first time Fort Lauderdale visitor, you’d be remiss if you didn’t check out what the city has to offer. You ask the Pelican Grand concierge to recommend the best off-property activity for spending the afternoon. She replied that a Water Taxi ride was her personal favorite. With a boarding station located at a restaurant just a mile from the hotel, hopping on board the Water Taxi is a great way to see why Fort Lauderdale is considered The Venice of America. You discover the Water Taxi cruises the Intracoastal Waterway for 15 miles. Along the way you view mega mansions, amazing yachts, and an occasional dolphin or manatee. There are 11 potential stops that include shopping in Las Olas, an array of restaurants, and exploring the Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. You return to Pelican Grand just in time for Happy Hour. The poolside bartender at the O2K Lounge recommends trying a Coco-Berry Mojito. This refreshing cocktail includes tropical flavors, coconut rum, blueberries, and a splash of Red Bull. DINNER BY THE SEA You’ve worked up an appetite after a lively afternoon on the Water Taxi, and you’re looking forward to dinner at the al fresco Ocean2000
