Palm Beach Zoo Lights is ‘Wild’ Holiday Celebration

Zoo Lights presented by FPL SolarNow, illuminates Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society with more than one-million eco-friendly LED lights this holiday season.

WEST PALM BEACH – Zoo Lights presented by FPL SolarNow, illuminates Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society with more than one-million eco-friendly LED lights this holiday season. Starting November 27, the Zoo is open after regular hours on select nights from 6- 9 PM for a WILD holiday celebration featuring family fun, Santa, decadent treats, music and holiday charm.

“We can all use some holiday magic to shine through this season,” said Margo McKnight, president and CEO of Palm Beach Zoo. “The premiere of Zoo Lights last year was a huge holiday hit with our community. This year it is even more important to offer visitors a safe celebration where families can be outside in nature, enjoy great weather and embrace the spirit of the holidays.”

Zoo Lights visitors can expect to have a safe, socially distanced and enjoyable experience including photos with Santa, a DJ playing holiday tunes, sweet treats and more including:

• An evening stroll through the Zoo surrounded by one-million holiday lights and lighted displays.
• A unique theme for each area of the Zoo. New for 2020, the Asia section will dazzle in golden hues as lighted animals sparkle, adding more square footage to the vast event.
• The Florida Wetlands section features traditional holiday cheer and Santa’s workshop. Families can have their portraits made with Santa, and children can share their holiday wishes through December 23.
• The Fountain Plaza transforms into a North Pole dance floor where a DJ will spin family-friendly holiday hits each evening.
• While the jaguars sleep, the Mayan Plaza shines with blue lights and dripping icicles.
• The Tropics Cafe features festive holiday fare, and food stations around the Zoo will offer seasonal treats, beverages and cocktails, as well as a s’mores fire pit for some sticky hands-on fun.
• The gift shop will offer lighted merchandise sure to be your children’s favorite.

For the second consecutive year, Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) is sponsoring Zoo Lights with its FPL SolarNow program. “It’s fitting for Florida Power & Light Company to illuminate the holiday season in this special way, with energy-efficient LED lights that brightens the Zoo’s pathways and gives families a safe place to celebrate,” said Matt Valle, vice president, FPL Development at NextEra Energy, Inc. and Zoo board member. “Having the ability to bring your family to a world-class destination that represents conservation is a benefit that many parents, such as myself, find invaluable now more than ever.”

Tickets for Zoo Lights are $14.95 for adults and $12.95 for children. Palm Beach Zoo Annual Members receive special pricing. Pre-sale tickets are available at www.palmbeachzoo.org/zoolights

This year, Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society is the official non-profit community partner of Sandi and the City of West Palm Beach Holidays in Paradise annual downtown campaign. In addition to taking part in Zoo Lights, plan on visiting Sandi and her flamingo friend Hope as Sandi Brings Hope to West Palm Beach. Learn more at wpb.org/events 

For more than 50 years, Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society has provided visitors with up-close and personal animal encounters that connect people to wildlife. Palm Beach Zoo guests explore a WILD ecosystem thriving on 23 lush, tropical acres while discovering hundreds of exotic animals. Visitors enjoy interactive animal experiences, nature and water play, and a lakeside cafe. Palm Beach Zoo participates in AZA Species Survival Plan® programs, ensuring healthy animal populations for rare and endangered species. The impact of a visit to Palm Beach Zoo extends beyond the gates, inspiring people to take action and save wildlife in wild places. For more information, visit www.palmbeachzoo.org.

Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) is a steadfast partner of the Zoo and supports the nonprofit organization through the years including the installation of the SolarNow canopy in the Zoo’s parking lot. The solar canopy is a symbol of sustainability representing FPL’s larger universal solar energy centers in remote geographic locations, just as the animal ambassadors in the Zoo represent their species in the wild.

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White Elephant Palm Beach Boutique Hotel to Open Late 2019

Palm Beach, Florida © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

White Elephant Palm Beach, a luxury boutique hotel located on Sunset Avenue in the heart of Palm Beach, will open late 2019. The new hotel, being completely redeveloped by Boston-based New England Development, represents the total renovation of the former Bradley Park Hotel – which dates back to the 1920’s – and its transformation into one of the most luxurious properties in Palm Beach.

The project reflects the standard of outstanding hospitality already established by New England Development in their waterfront White Elephant Nantucket and highlights the synergy between two legendary resort destinations.  “Our main mission is to combine our vision of hospitality with the ethos and style of casually elegant Palm Beach,” comments Douglass Karp, President, New England Development. He notes: “We are pleased to combine our promise of service excellence with the exciting tradition of hospitality in this legendary resort destination. We feel right at home in Palm Beach.”

New England Development retained noted architectural firm Elkus Manfredi to create a design respectful of the unique history of Palm Beach while reflecting the mood, pulse, refinement, and ethos of the modern, sophisticated traveler.  The new hotel embraces the history of the existing four-story landmark building adjacent to Bradley Park. The design of White Elephant Palm Beach will be a contemporary interpretation of Mediterranean-revival architecture, totally at home and reflective of the life and history of its setting.

The 32-key hotel, with 13 rooms and 19 spacious suites, will be residential in scale with outdoor spaces and lush landscaping. The rooms and suites will have outdoor balconies with landscaping. Both penthouse suites will offer large living rooms with fully equipped kitchens and large outdoor terraces with coastal views.

The layout of the hotel takes advantage of outdoor spaces featuring a u-shaped outdoor courtyard, which will be the social heart of the hotel and the setting for an inviting pool environment and an outdoor seating.  A new signature restaurant, private dining rooms and outdoor seating will be incorporated while maintaining the ambiance of a boutique resort.

The interior design will capture the spirit of a grand home with hard wood floors, elegant tiles, woven rugs, all interpreted with contemporary style. The interior colors will reflect the special quality of Palm Beach light in soft neutrals. The exterior walls of the Mizner-style architecture will feature a light creamy-white color with classic black-and-white striped awnings, charcoal-grey roof tiles and black trim creating a fresh, sophisticated look to the classic structure.

The hotel stands one street north of Royal Poinciana Way, Palm Beach’s original Main Street and less than two blocks from the Atlantic Ocean. It is located on the corner of Sunset Avenue, the southeast corner of Bradley Place, adjacent to the intra-coastal waterway. White Elephant Palm Beach is adjacent to Bradley Park, which has been restored and serves as a grand lawn to the hotel. In recent years, this historic area of Palm Beach has undergone a revitalization including the development of the Royal Poinciana Plaza shopping area and the completion of the Flagler Memorial Bridge.

New England Development (NED) is one of the nation’s premier real estate development and management companies, led by Chairman Stephen R. Karp, Vice Chairman Steven S. Fischman, and President Douglass E. Karp.  As part of NED’s national portfolio that includes retail, mixed-use, and hospitality assets, plus marinas and golf courses, the company operates luxury hotels on Nantucket, MA, including White Elephant and The Wauwinet. Both hotels are on the Condé Nast Traveler’s Gold List and are recipients of the Forbes Travel Guide Four Star Award.  In addition, NED was a major part of the team that developed the Westin Boston Waterfront Hotel adjacent to the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center.

New England Development also developed and manages the 440,000 SF Palm Beach Outlets in West Palm Beach and the adjacent 300,000 SF Marketplace at the Outlets, located directly off Interstate 95 on Palm Beach Lakes Boulevard in West Palm Beach, FL.

 

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Free Hotel Nights Promotion This Summer in The Palm Beaches

The AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five-Star Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa has an award-winning 42,000 square foot Eau Spa, three Har-Tru tennis courts, two oceanfront pools, a fitness center and exciting kids and teens programs © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – Discover The Palm Beaches (DTPB), the tourism marketing organization for Palm Beach County, has unveiled its highly-anticipated “Free Nights” hotel promotion for Summer 2018. For a limited time, 13 hotels are offering guests a free night, while prices start from about $115 to $700 per night – a savings of almost 50 percent compared to winter rates for some of the participating properties. This diverse collection of hotels and resorts provides travelers of nearly any budget an opportunity to enjoy the wealth of experiences available throughout The Palm Beaches.

“Visitors will find our legendary luxury experiences at an exceptional value during the summer,” said Jorge Pesquera, president and CEO of DTPB. “You’ll find the best vacation experiences in affordable packages – so we invite you to discover how this outstanding travel destination offers amazing value for getaways or memorable family events.”

Free-Night Promotions

The following hotels and resorts are offering free-night promotions, with a free extra night added to a stay at regular rates. Details pertaining to each offer are as follows:

• Best Western Palm Beach Lakes Inn — West Palm Beach, Florida

A part of West Palm Beach’s history for 50 years, this classic Florida hotel has hosted Elvis and Marilyn Monroe. Conveniently located across the street from the Palm Beach Outlets, this hotel features a tropical pool and courtyard, gazebo, waterfall, and meditation garden.

• • An Extra Night for Tropical Fun: Stay three nights at the hotel’s regular rate, and the fourth night is free. Available from May 1 – September 30, 2018. To book, call 561-683-8810, ext. 452.
• Boca Raton Resort & Club – Boca Raton, Florida

One of the country’s premier resort destinations and private club facilities, the Boca Raton Resort & Club features amenities including a half-mile stretch of private beach at the Boca Beach Club, Spa Palazzo, two 18-hole championship golf courses and the Dave Pelz Scoring Game School, the Resort’s tennis program, full-service 32-slip marina, seven swimming pools, three state-of-the-art fitness centers, and a variety of water sports.

• • Another Day in Paradise: Book best available rate for three nights, and the fourth night is complimentary for summer arrivals (including July 4^th and Labor Day Weekend). Available through October 31, 2018. This offer must be booked 60 days before arrival. To book, use the promo code “PBADPA” at www.BocaResort.com. The complimentary fourth night is reflected in the daily room rate for this promo code as 25% off the room rate, per night, for four consecutive nights.
• The Brazilian Court Hotel — Palm Beach, Florida

Just steps from Worth Avenue and the Atlantic Ocean, The Brazilian Court is a historic landmark infused throughout with Roaring ’20s glamour. Guests can savor the cuisine of internationally acclaimed chef Daniel Boulud at Café Boulud, enjoy pampering at the world-renowned Frederic Fekkai Salon & Spa, or relax by the secluded, palm-fringed pool.

• • One More Night in Tropical Boutique Style: Stay two nights, and the third night is free, or stay three nights, and the fourth night is free. Available May 1 – September 30, 2018. When booking, savings is included in rate. To book, call 561-655-7740. 

• The Breakers — Palm Beach, Florida

Ready to revel in the sunshine? Once you stay, you’ll understand. And once you start saving, you’ll want to stay longer. Founded on the sands of Palm Beach in 1896, The Breakers is known for its gracious staff and seaside glamour. Amenities geared to families include a 6,100-square-foot Family Entertainment Center and interactive playground, Camp Breakers for kids ages 3 – 12, poolside bungalows for daytime rental, and a roster of daily activities designed for guests of all ages. While here, guests also receive complimentary daily benefits-including free daily breakfast, kids’ menu meals for ages 12 and under, unlimited golf, and more (applicable to guests booked at prevailing regular rates. Not available to groups).

• • Sixth Night Free: Sixth night free when you stay six consecutive nights in a Premium Guest Room category or higher. Available May 1 – October 31, 2018 (some restrictions may apply). This offer is combinable with the Complimentary Daily Benefits, including free daily breakfast and much more. To book, visit www.TheBreakers.com.
• Casa Grandview — West Palm Beach, Florida

If you seek one of those “out of the way” hideaways off the beaten path, for ultimate privacy and relaxation, discover the best in South Florida hospitality at Casa Grandview. As a AAA 4-Diamond historic property, this boutique hotel offers a luxurious, but casual, tropical Florida atmosphere.

• • Free Night in a Vacation Rental: Sixth night free when you stay six consecutive nights in an Art Deco Apartment, Nola or Savannah Apartment. Available June 1 – October 31, 2018. This offer is based on availability, and certain restrictions may apply. To book, reserve online at https://casagrandview.com with the promo code “SUMMER”.
  • Fun-Filled Family Vacation with a Free Night: Receive one night free when you book a new stay of seven or more nights. Available June 1 – October 31, 2018. To book, reserve online at https://casagrandview.com with the promo code “FV2”.
• The Chesterfield Palm Beach — Palm Beach, Florida

Recognized as a historical landmark by the Palm Beach Preservation Foundation, this glorious boutique hotel combines modern Florida sophistication with old-world English elegance. Its indulgent amenities include a tranquil outdoor swimming pool, a wood-paneled library, and the legendary Leopard Lounge & Restaurant, which features exciting international cuisine, creative cocktails, and live music.

• • 3 Nights for the Price of 2: Stay a little longer in one of the hotel’s unique rooms or suites, offering as much unrestrained luxury as you need. Every third night you stay is free. Offer applies to all room types. Maximum of 3 free nights/9 nights total. Available through December 31, 2018. To book, call 561-659-5800 or 800-243-7871.

• Delray Sands Resort — Highland Beach, Florida

Nestled between Boca Raton and Delray Beach, Delray Sands combines the intimacy of a boutique hotel with resort-style amenities in an oceanfront setting. Families will appreciate the separate children’s pool and proximity to Palm Beach’s top attractions, including shopping and entertainment at Mizner Park and Delray’s Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens.

• • Have an Extra Night Beachfront: Stay two nights, and the third night is free. Available from May 1-September 30, 2018, excluding weekends. To book, call 866-943-0950.

• Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa — Manalapan, Florida

Situated on a secluded private beach on seven acres of the Atlantic coast with breathtaking ocean views and lush tropical gardens, the AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five-Star Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa was recognized as Florida’s top resort in 2015 and 2016 for the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards. After being greeted with a glass of champagne upon check-in, guests are escorted to spacious accommodations designed by Jonathan Adler featuring private balconies with hanging chairs to enjoy ocean views. The resort’s many amenities include the Forbes Five-Star, award-winning 42,000 square foot Eau Spa, three Har-Tru tennis courts, two oceanfront pools, a fitness center and exciting kids and teens programs.

• • More Beach Time with a Free Night: Stay three nights in an Ocean View Room category or higher, and the fourth night is complimentary. Available from May 1-31, 2018. To book, call 800-328-0170.

• Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham West Palm Beach — West Palm Beach, Florida

Rooms at this family-friendly hotel, which is convenient to I-95 and steps from the Palm Beach Outlets, include separate living rooms, full kitchenettes, full size refrigerator, dishwasher, two burner cook-top range and two 42″ LCD TV’s. Guests can enjoy a heated outdoor pool and a free bike-share program.

• • Fourth Night Free: Stay three nights at regular rates, and the fourth night is free. Available May 1 – September 30, 2018, based on availability. To book, call 561-472-7000, ext. 723, and ask for booking code “LKCC”.

• Jupiter Beach Resort & Spa — Jupiter, Florida

In addition to its tropical beachfront location, Jupiter Beach Resort & Spa is the home of two award-winning restaurants, an oceanfront pool, hot tub and state-of-the-art fitness center. Family-friendly activities range from basketball and tennis to movie nights to Sea Turtle Walks with local experts.

• • More Time to Explore Jupiter: Stay two nights, and the third night is free. Available through December 20, 2018. To book, call 877-389-0571.

• PGA National Resort & Spa — Palm Beach Gardens, Florida

This AAA four-diamond resort not only has a 28-year legacy of hosting prestigious golf events including the PGA TOUR’s Honda Classic and the Ryder Cup, but also offers guests a world-class spa, state-of-the-art sports and racquet club along with an outstanding array of gourmet dining experiences.

• • More Time for Spa and Golf: Stay two nights, and the third night is free. Available through September 30, 2018. To book, visit http://www.pgaresort.com and use the promo code, “DIS3FR”.

• Tideline Ocean Resort & Spa — Palm Beach, Florida

Discover breathtaking oceanfront views with a contemporary twist at Tideline Ocean Resort & Spa. Poised between the Atlantic Ocean and palatial Palm Beach mansions, our contemporary exterior harbors guest rooms and suites that are equally exotic. Outside, choose between the serenity of the ocean steps away, or the private pool & cabanas.

• • Free Night Oceanfront in Palm Beach: Book best available rate for three nights, and the fourth night is free. Available through September 30, 2018, excluding arrivals on Wednesdays, subject to availability. To book, visit www.tidelineresort.com or call 561-540-6440.
• Wyndham Grand Jupiter At Harbourside Place — Jupiter, Florida

Edging Jupiter’s Intracoastal Waterway, the Wyndham Grand Jupiter at Harbourside Place is surrounded by distinctive dining, shopping, and entertainment. After a refreshing night’s sleep in plush, signature bedding, guests can enjoy a swim in the sparkling rooftop pool, then lounge poolside with a hand-crafted cocktail, while soaking up the views and gentle breezes.

• • Another Night to Do More in Jupiter: Stay three nights, and the fourth night is free. Available May 1 – September 30, 2018. To book, visit http://www.wyndhamgrandjupiter.com and use promo code “H4NF25”.

Discover The Palm Beaches, formerly the Palm Beach County Convention and Visitors Bureau, is the official tourism marketing corporation that promotes the collection of 39 cities and towns commonly referred to as “The Palm Beaches,” which spans more than 2,300 square miles and 47 miles of pristine, golden beaches from Boca Raton to Jupiter and Tequesta. Tourism is among Palm Beach County’s major industries, generating $4.7 billion in direct visitor spending and supporting 70,000 jobs with an economic impact of about $7 billion. Once recognized as a tropical escape for elite travelers in the late 1800s, America’s First Resort Destination® is making its resurgence as The Best Way To Experience Florida®, welcoming a record 7,890,000 people in 2017. The Palm Beaches are home to nearly 17,000 hotel rooms, ranging from historic resorts to boutique inns. The destination features more than 100 family-friendly attractions, world-class luxury and antique shopping experiences, 125 miles of peaceful waterways for on- or in-the-water activities, more than 150 artificial reefs that line the Atlantic Ocean’s Gulf Stream current, 160 golf courses, award-winning restaurants and a thriving entertainment scene boasting more than 200 art and culture organizations.

Situated along I-95, The Palm Beaches are also home to Palm Beach International Airport (PBI), with more than 200 daily direct flights to 27 domestic and international destinations in the United States and Canada. The Palm Beaches are also conveniently located next to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood and Miami International airports, each one only an hour away. In addition, with the new Brightline train, transportation into The Palm Beaches from Fort Lauderdale is even faster and more convenient – with connections to Miami and Orlando coming soon.

For more information about The Palm Beaches, visit www.ThePalmBeaches.com and connect on social media via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @PalmBeachesFL, YouTube at Discover The Palm Beaches and the hashtag #ThePalmBeaches. Tune-in to The Palm Beaches TV for 24/7 streaming content of the destination’s hotels, attractions, restaurants and experiences.

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Miami Beach Welcomes Beach Lovers with Special Travel Offers this Winter Season

Miami Beach is rolling out the welcome mat this winter with special discounts and deals © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Miami Beach is helping sun seekers find their seasonal beach escape with exclusive travel deals and offers this fall and winter. Discounts of up to 25 percent off are being offered at several area hotels including Dream South Beach, Loews Miami Beach, Mondrian South Beach, Gale South Beach and W South Beach.

“This beach-wide initiative to offer specialty discounts and deals this upcoming season is a testament to how our local Miami Beach hotel community is rolling out the welcome mat and working to help tourists de-stress with that coveted warm weather vacation to escape the cold,” said Peggy Benua, Chair of the Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority (MBVCA) and General Manager of Dream South Beach. “We are preparing for a very strong season and look forward to welcoming vacationers and making it easier for them to escape to our beautiful city, Miami Beach, that is truly like no other place in the world.”

Beach lovers can select from a variety of Miami Beach hotel discounts (subject to availability and blackout dates) that will be sure to warm them up this season, including:

• Dream South Beach:Travelers can book the Beach Lovers promotion and receive a 25 percent discount on room rates with a complimentary resort fee that includes luxury lounge chairs, beach towels and in-room Wi-Fi.
• Loews Miami Beach: Experience an enhanced oceanfront escape and book three nights to receive a $75 resort credit per stay and daily buffet breakfast for two.
• AC Hotel Miami Beach: Get away to warm weather and enjoy up to 20 percent off on advance bookings for stays now through December 22.
• Courtyard Miami Beach/South Beach:Go art deco this winter season at a historical landmark, just minutes from the beautiful beaches and premier shopping on South Beach, with up to 20 percent off advance bookings for stays now through December 22.
• Mondrian South Beach: Soak up the sun in the heart of Miami Beach and experience the iconic Ocean Drive, Espanola Way and Lincoln Road with up to 15% off the best available rate.
• Gale South Beach: Luxury service, hospitality perks and complimentary food and beverage offerings await travelers with up to 15 percent off the best available rate.

Renowned for its culinary offerings, extravagant nightlife, rich culture, luxe shopping and plush hotels, Miami Beach is home to world-class museums, the New World Symphony, Miami City Ballet, Miami Beach Convention Center, international festivals and art exhibitions, boat and auto shows, over 187 boutique and resort hotels and 12 public parks. Boasting seven miles of white sand beaches, Miami Beach is easily accessible from the Port of Miami and Miami International Airport. The City of Miami Beach has been named one of the top cities worldwide for ‘walkability’ and is equally easy to navigate by bike or boat. Known for its year-round sunny skies, the vibrant destination has been ranked by TripAdvisor as a Top Winter Sun Vacation Rental Getaway Destinations, Top Romantic Destinations, Top 25 Beaches in the World and Top 25 Destinations in the U.S.

For more information and updates on additional Miami Beach hotel offers and discounts this winter season, download the Miami Beach Information App at www.miamibeachapi.com/app/.

 

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Hotels Available to Those Seeking Shelter in The Palm Beaches After Hurricane Irma

Sunrise over the Palm Beaches © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla.  – Discover The Palm Beaches, the official tourism marketing corporation for Palm Beach County, has been closely monitoring the reports on ground conditions following Hurricane Irma’s impact. Due to the eye of the storm’s redirection to the west, The Palm Beaches, as a destination, was fortunate to experience very minimal damage as compared with the rest of the state.

“While The Palm Beaches are on the path to regaining normalcy for its residents and visitors, our hearts go out to those in our great state and other affected areas who have experienced damage in the path of Hurricane Irma,” said Jorge Pesquera, president and CEO for Discover The Palm Beaches. “We consider ourselves incredibly fortunate to have Palm Beaches International Airport (PBIA) reopen yesterday, and we are on the path to ‘business as usual’ with many companies expected to re-open on Wednesday.”

Several hoteliers across The Palm Beaches are offering special rates for those in need of shelter and accommodations.

Hotel and Lodging Updates:

The following hotels in The Palm Beaches are currently open. Call directly for hotel availability and rates.

Boca Raton Plaza Hotel & Suites

http://www.BocaRatonPlaza.com

Boca Raton Resort & Club, A Waldorf Astoria Resort

http://www.bocaresort.com/

Boca Raton Wyndham Hotel

http://www.wyndhamboca.com/

Casa Grandview Historic Luxury Inn Cottages & Suites

http://www.casagrandview.com/

Courtyard by Marriott Boynton Beach

http://www.marriott.com/pbibb

Courtyard by Marriot Palm Beach Jupiter

http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/pbija-courtyard-palm-beach-jupiter/

** DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Palm Beach Garden

http://doubletree3.hilton.com/en/hotels/florida/doubletree-by-hilton-hotel-and-executive-meeting-center-palm-beach-gardens-PBIMPDT/index.html

** DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel West Palm Beach Airport

http://doubletree3.hilton.com/en/hotels/florida/doubletree-by-hilton-hotel-west-palm-beach-airport-PBIAADT/index.html

** Embassy Suites Boca Raton

http://embassysuites3.hilton.com/en/hotels/florida/embassy-suites-by-hilton-boca-raton-BCTNWES/index.html

Embassy Suites Palm Beach Gardens – PGA Boulevard

http://embassysuites3.hilton.com/en/hotels/florida/embassy-suites-by-hilton-palm-beach-gardens-pga-boulevard-PBIPGES/index.html

Embassy Suites West Palm Beach

http://www.eswestpalmbeach.com/

Hampton Inn Boca Raton

http://hamptoninn3.hilton.com/en/hotels/florida/hampton-inn-boca-raton-BCTFLHX/index.html

Hampton Inn Jupiter/Juno Beach

http://hamptoninn3.hilton.com/en/hotels/florida/hampton-inn-jupiter-juno-beach-PBIJBHX/index.html

Hilton Garden Inn Palm Beach Gardens

http://hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com/en/hotels/florida/hilton-garden-inn-palm-beach-gardens-PBIGDGI/index.html

Holiday Inn Express Boca Raton

https://www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/en/boca-raton/bctls/hoteldetail

Holiday Inn Palm Beach Airport

http://www.hipalmbeachairport.com/

Homewood Suites by Hilton Palm Beach Gardens

http://homewoodsuites3.hilton.com/en/hotels/florida/homewood-suites-by-hilton-palm-beach-gardens-PBIHWHW/index.html

Homewood Suites by Hilton West Palm Beach

http://homewoodsuites3.hilton.com/en/hotels/florida/homewood-suites-by-hilton-west-palm-beach-PBICTHW/index.html 

Hyatt Place Boca Raton

https://www.bocaraton.place.hyatt.com/

Hyatt Place Delray Beach

https://delraybeach.place.hyatt.com/en/hotel/home.html

Hyatt Place West Palm Beach Downtown

http://www.westpalmbeach.place.hyatt.com/en/hotel/home.html 

Jupiter Beach Resort & Spa

https://www.jupiterbeachresort.com/

** Palm Beach Gardens Marriott

http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/pbipg-palm-beach-gardens-marriott/

** PGA National Resort & Spa

http://www.pgaresort.com/

Ramada Boca Raton

https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/ramada/boca-raton-florida/ramada-boca-raton/overview

Red Roof Inn Plus + West Palm Beach

https://www.redroof.com/

** Residence Inn by Marriott West Palm Beach

http://www.residenceinn.marriott.com/

Residence Inn Downtown West Palm Beach

http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/pbird-residence-inn-west-palm-beach-downtown-cityplace-area/

SpringHill Suites by Marriott West Palm Beach

http://www.marriott.com/pbiwi

Waterstone Resort & Marina, Curio Collection by Hilton

www.waterstoneboca.com

Wyndham Grand Jupiter At Harbourside Place

http://www.wyndhamgrandjupiter.com/

Note, those hotels with two asterisks are open but were sold out at the time of release distribution. To continually monitor hotel availability in The Palm Beaches in real-time, refer to the accommodations list here: http://www.thepalmbeaches.com/severe-weather/accommodations

 

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Website Lists Hotel Room Availability During Hurricane Irma in The Palm Beaches

The grand, historic Breakers Hotel on Palm Beach island must now brace for Hurricane Irma. Discover The Palm Beaches has deployed a storm update page as a resource regarding hotel room availability © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (September 8, 2017) – Discover The Palm Beaches, the official tourism marketing corporation for Palm Beach County, has deployed a storm update page as a resource regarding hotel room availability during the potential impact of Hurricane Irma. The page can be found at: www.thepalmbeaches.com/severe-weather/accommodations.

The page is also accessible on www.ThePalmBeaches.com and will feature a list of hotel and lodging options throughout Palm Beach County with available occupancy. In addition, the page is linked to a list of key agencies that provide important resources for hurricane preparedness in Palm Beach County and throughout Florida.

“Our top priority is the safety of our visitors, conference attendees, residents, and tourism partners. This webpage will help ensure that these groups can remain informed in real time regarding the availability of resources to assist them during the potentially severe weather,” said Jorge Pesquera, president and CEO for Discover The Palm Beaches. “We encourage everyone in the area to monitor our website as we continue to keep our eye on the storm and its potential impact on our area.”

Current weather forecasts have issued hurricane advisories that include Palm Beach County. Visitors are encouraged to exercise caution and check with airlines, hotels, meeting venues, car rental companies, tour operators, etc. to determine what actions they plan to take and what methods are in place to assist potentially displaced travelers.

Travelers, conference delegates and residents should also look to the following sources for information:

• National Weather Service: www.weather.gov/
• National Hurricane Center: www.nhc.noaa.gov
• VISIT FLORIDA travel advisories on www.VISITFLORIDA.com
• VISIT FLORIDA Partners and businesses in the Florida tourism industry hotline, (877) 435-2872
• Florida Division of Emergency Management: floridadisaster.org
• General tourism information: VISIT FLORIDA consumer hotline, 888-735-2872
• Florida Power & Light (FPL) Storm Center: www.fpl.com/storm
• Palm Beach County public affairs: http://discover.pbcgov.org/

 

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3rd Annual ‘Celebration of Harry Potter’ Fan Event Comes to Universal Orlando Resort Jan 29-31; Vacation Packages Go On Sale Aug 19

Universal Orlando Resort and Warner Bros. will host its third annual “A Celebration of Harry Potter,” a special gathering of Harry Potter fans from around the globe, Jan. 29-31, 2016 © 2015 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Universal Orlando Resort and Warner Bros. will host its third annual “A Celebration of Harry Potter,” a special gathering of Harry Potter fans from around the globe, Jan. 29-31, 2016. The three-day weekend event will feature an array of experiences.

All general admission park guests will have the opportunity to:

• Attend Q&A sessions with Harry Potter film talent (complete talent lineup will be announced at a later date)
• Experience and participate in the interactive exhibits at the “A Celebration of Harry Potter Expo, featuring Harry Potter brand partners such as Warner Bros. Studio Tour London, Pottermore, Scholastic, MinaLima, and Harry Potter: The Exhibition
• Enjoy special panels and demonstrations regarding various aspects of the Harry Potter stories

Additionally, guests will be able to visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hogsmeade at Universal’s Islands of Adventure and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida, and ride the Hogwarts Express between the two lands with a park-to-park ticket.

Special vacation packages, including annual passholder packages, will go on sale at noon EST on August 19. On-site hotel packages start at $235 per adult per night and include exclusive benefits such as special guest access to “A Celebration of Harry Potter ” Expo, admission to a private evening reception in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and special guest access to panels and demonstrations. Packages also include three-night hotel accommodations, three-day park-to-park tickets to both Universal Studios Florida & Universal’s Islands of Adventure, a special welcome parcel and more. For complete package details, visit www.universalorlando.com/celebration.

Universal Orlando’s two theme parks, Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure, are home to some of the world’s most exciting and innovative attractions. Its on-site resort hotels, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, the Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort, and Universals Cabana Bay Beach Resort are destinations unto themselves. Its entertainment complex, Universal CityWalk, offers dining and entertainment for every member of the family. And just minutes away is Wet n Wild, a family water park.

Universal Orlando Resort has unveiled 18 new guest experiences in the past five years including new attractions, dining opportunities and a dramatically themed hotel.  And more is on the way.  Coming in 2016 is Universal Orlando’s fifth on-site hotel, Loews Sapphire Falls Resort; and Skull Island: Reign of Kong, a groundbreaking attraction in Islands of Adventure.  And in 2017, Universal Orlando Resort will open Universal’s Volcano Bay, an entirely new water theme park experience.

Universal Orlando Resort is part of NBCUniversal, a Comcast company.  Follow on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

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All New ‘Holidays in Space’ Light Show Delights Guests at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is treating guests to an out-of-this-world holiday experience with an all new Holiday Rocket Garden Light Show, part of the attraction’s annual “Holidays in Space” celebration.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla.– Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is treating guests to an out-of-this-world holiday experience with an all new Holiday Rocket Garden Light Show, part of the attraction’s annual “Holidays in Space” celebration.

The new Holiday Rocket Garden Light Show takes place daily through Jan. 4 in the ever-popular Rocket Garden, a Visitor Complex hallmark. The outdoor garden features a majestic collection of real and replica capsules and rockets, soaring 80, 90, and 100 feet into the sky, demonstrating how manned space flight progressed through the Mercury, Gemini and Apollo eras.

The Visitor Complex also is adorned for the holiday season with a stunning array of decorations including a 41-foot Christmas tree, a giant NASA “meatball” ornament, garlands, lights, ribbons, bows and more.

“Coming here for the holidays was absolutely amazing, we really, really enjoyed it. There was a lot to do, it was beyond my expectations and we’ll definitely come back,” said James Devon of Jersey, United Kingdom. “ Well, we haven’t really got anything like this back in England, so it’s something new. Obviously there are a lot of other attractions in Florida and this one of them, it was something I’ve always wanted to see.”

“Walking down the sidewalk and seeing the rockets lit up, that was amazing,” said Rebecca Lagare of Petersham, Massachusetts. “I’m glad that they did something like that.”

“Many astronauts have told us that they have felt no greater sense of peace and hope for humankind than when looking down on the blue marble of Earth from space,” said Therrin Protze, chief operating officer of the Visitor Complex. “Through this truly unique celebration, we hope to share that incredible feeling with all our guests this holiday season.”

A second element will be added to Holidays in Space Dec. 22 through Dec. 30 when a 3D projection mapping presentation will be shown on the side of the 223-foot-long Saturn 1B rocket. Also called spatial augmented reality, this technology is used to project images onto irregularly shaped objects, such as bridges, buildings, and now, a rocket. This remarkable presentation, a first at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, features custom animation blended with historic footage of actual launches and awe-inspiring views of Earth from the ISS. The show takes guests on a walk through NASA history, from the first moon launches, through the 30-year Space Shuttle Program and the assembly of the ISS, and onto the surface of Mars, thanks to actual images captured by NASA’s robotic exploration rovers.

From Dec. 26-Dec. 31, a Holiday Laser Light Spectacular will be added to the festivities, featuring an incredible music and laser light show that will be visible in Orlando and throughout Central Florida. The green rays from the laser show may even be bright enough for crew aboard the International Space Station to see.

All holiday activities are included with Visitor Complex admission; no advance reservations are required. Light shows begin at dusk each day. The Visitor Complex is open 365 days a year, including Christmas Day, Dec. 25.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex’s holiday hours of operation are:

Nov. 28-Dec. 25: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Dec. 26-Jan. 4: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex brings to life the epic story of the U.S. space program, offering a full day or more of fun and educational activities, including the Kennedy Space Center Tour featuring the Apollo/Saturn V Center with an actual Saturn V moon rocket, Shuttle Launch Experience^®, 3D IMAX^® space films, Astronaut Encounter, Exploration Space^®: Explorers Wanted and many other interactive exhibits. The new $100 million home for Space Shuttle Atlantis^SM opened June 29, 2013. Admission also includes the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame^®, featuring historic spacecraft and the world’s largest collection of personal astronaut memorabilia, which opens daily at noon and closing times vary by season. Only 45 minutes from Orlando, Fla., Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex opens daily at 9 a.m. with closing times varying by season. Admission is $50 + tax for adults and $40 + tax for children ages 3-11. The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers annual passes starting at $75 + tax for adults and $60 + tax for children ages 3-11. For more information, call 877-313-2610 or visit http://www.KennedySpaceCenter.com.

Twitter: @ExploreSpaceKsc

facebook.com/KennedySpaceCenterVisitorComplex

 

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Eco-Friendly Holiday at the Palm Beach Zoo

Patton, a military macaw, enjoys a gift wrapped with recycled newspaper at the Palm Beach Zoo, which is hosting an”Eco-Friendly Holiday” series.

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — The Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society is announcing its first-ever “Eco-Friendly Holiday” décor theme, in which it will model methods of naturalistic, “green”-themed decorations. Guests are encouraged to visit the Zoo from December 13, 2014, through January 1, 2015, to view ways in which they can explore ideas to “green” their holiday traditions, and to receive conservation messaging tips in signs spread throughout the Zoo.

Zoo staff members worked with student volunteers from G-Star School of the Arts, who helped to design the eco-friendly decorations. The students also created the décor through activities such as draining coconut ornaments, painting wooden houses and trees for a play area in the Zoo that will be decorated with inspiration from “Whoville,” and constructing giant holiday presents that will be spread throughout the Zoo. The students will install the decorations they created on December 11.

“Our students have enjoyed this project,” said George Colavecchio, production coordinator for G-Star. “They have been able to discover ways for going green in their own lives and sharing that knowledge with others in a fun and creative way.”

The entire month of December, guests are invited to watch as zookeepers will feature special holiday enrichment activities for various animals, beginning with a jaguar and capuchin monkeys receiving gifts on December 6, 2014. The public is encouraged to follow the Zoo on their Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts to stay informed about animal holiday enrichment schedules.

Children can create their very own snowflake ornament and snowman necklace made from natural materials in eco-friendly craft workshops on Saturday and Sunday, December 13 – 14 and 20 – 21. As a special treat, Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer will also be making appearances throughout the course of the workshops. Funds raised benefit the daily operations of the Zoo.

WHAT: Eco-Friendly Holiday at the Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society

WHEN: December 13, 2014 through January 1, 2015

WHERE: Spread out around Zoo grounds, with signs directing guests where to look

 

WHAT: Eco-Friendly Holiday enrichment for a jaguar and capuchin monkeys

WHEN: December 6, 2014 at 11:30 a.m. during Jaguar Talk, 1:30 p.m. during Primate Feeding

WHERE: Jaguar habitat, capuchin monkey habitat in the Harriett & George D. Cornell Tropics of the Americas section of the Zoo

 

WHAT: Eco-Friendly Children’s Holiday Craft Workshops

WHEN: December 13, 14, 20, & 21, 2014 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily

WHERE: Peggy S. Brown Special Events Pavilion

COST: $3.00 per member child and $5.00 per non-member child, tickets can be purchased at the Zoo’s admissions booth upon arrival or upon arrival to the Peggy S. Brown Special Events Pavilion

“We are proud to showcase decorating in a more eco-friendly way during this time of year,” said Andrew Aiken, president and CEO for the Zoo. “Celebrating with a sustainable holiday is meaningful to us as part of our mission.

“We hope to show that you don’t have to sacrifice your traditions or your enjoyment to be kind to the environment,” Aiken continued. “An eco-friendly holiday helps wildlife!”

The Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society is located at 1301 Summit Boulevard in West Palm Beach, Florida. The Zoo is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day, except Thanksgiving and Christmas. For more information, visit www.palmbeachzoo.org.

 

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Kennedy Space Center Celebrates ‘Holidays in Space’ with All-New 3D Light Shows, Laser Spectacular

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex celebrates “Holidays in Space.”

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla— KENNEDY SPACE CENTER – Looking for something new and unique to do this holiday season? The holidays at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex are going high-tech with a first-of-its-kind 3D show “projection mapped” onto a rocket, and a laser and light show so spectacular, astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) should be able to see the beam.

Beginning Friday, Nov. 28, the day after Thanksgiving, the Visitor Complex will be adorned for the holiday season with a stunning array of decorations including a 41-foot Christmas tree, a giant NASA “meatball” ornament, garlands, lights, ribbons, bows and more.

As the season progresses, so does the fun. From Dec. 2 through Jan. 4, the Visitor Complex presents the new Holiday Rocket Garden Light Show featuring a choreographed light and music show.

The excitement accelerates Dec. 22 through Dec. 31 when a second element is added to the show: a 3D projection mapping presentations shown on the side of the 223-foot-long Saturn 1B rocket. Also called spatial augmented reality, this technology is used to project images onto irregularly shaped objects, such as bridges, buildings, and now, a rocket. This remarkable presentation, a first at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, features custom animation blended with historic footage of actual launches and awe-inspiring views of Earth from the ISS. The show takes guests on a walk through NASA history, from our first launches to the moon, through the 30-year Space Shuttle Program and the assembly of the ISS, and onto the surface of Mars, thanks to actual images captured by NASA’s Curiosity and Opportunity robotic exploration rovers.

From Dec. 26-Dec. 31, a Holiday Laser Light Spectacular will be added to the festivities, featuring an incredible music and laser light show that will be visible in Orlando and throughout Central Florida. The green rays from the laser show are bright enough for astronauts aboard the International Space Station to see them.

“Many astronauts have told us that they have felt no greater sense of peace and hope for humankind than when looking down on the blue marble of Earth from space,” said Therrin Protze, chief operating officer of Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. “Through these truly unique and 3D light and laser shows, we hope to share that incredible feeling with all our guests this holiday season.”

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex’s Rocket Garden features a majestic collection of real and replica capsules and rockets, soaring 80-, 90-, and 100 feet into the sky, demonstrating how manned space flight progressed through the Mercury, Gemini and Apollo eras.

All holiday activities are included with Visitor Complex admission; no advance reservations are required. Light shows begin at dusk each day. The Visitor Complex is open 365 days a year, including Christmas Day, Dec. 25.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex’s holiday hours of operation are:

Nov. 28-Dec. 25: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Dec. 26-Dec. 30: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex brings to life the epic story of the U.S. space program, offering a full day or more of fun and educational activities, including the Kennedy Space Center Tour featuring the Apollo/Saturn V Center with an actual Saturn V moon rocket, Shuttle Launch Experience^®, 3D IMAX^® space films, Astronaut Encounter, Exploration Space^®: Explorers Wanted and many other interactive exhibits. The new $100 million home for Space Shuttle Atlantis^SM opened June 29, 2013. Admission also includes the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame^®, featuring historic spacecraft and the world’s largest collection of personal astronaut memorabilia, which opens daily at noon and closing times vary by season. Only 45 minutes from Orlando, Fla., Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex opens daily at 9 a.m. with closing times varying by season. Admission is $50 + tax for adults and $40 + tax for children ages 3-11. The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers annual passes starting at $75 + tax for adults and $60 + tax for children ages 3-11.

For more information, call 877-313-2610 or visit www.KennedySpaceCenter.com.

Twitter: @ExploreSpaceKsc

facebook.com/KennedySpaceCenterVisitorComplex

 

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