Now, I know my focus has been pretty centered on Singer Island and West Palm Beach more particularly than surrounding areas but this time, I’m dragging my focus (and yours) to a semi-local hotspot that’s worth your visit.

Ft. Lauderdale’s got some serious fun – and while I could give you an exhaustive list (loquacious as I am) I’ve got to save some for later! After all, I don’t want to set you up for disappointment trying to fit it all in ONE vacation – think of it as my gift to you. A continuous list of reasons to return.

With an array of establishments you can’t beat, there’s nothing you’ll miss when you’re walking Ft. Lauderdale’s Riverwalk Arts and Entertainment District. Two miles of tropical foliage tipping their leaves to brickwork walkways have welcomed visitors from all over the country, and the globe.

The roots of the river reach into history as far as Indian Tribal legends of “New Water” springing up from nowhere, where Major William Lauderdale built a fort and gave the city its current name.

More fond of fancy baubles than you are history? Or maybe food? There’s both on the Riverwalk. With prime pickings available from specialty shops such as Daoud’s Fine Jewelry and Cartier, you can find something fabulous and glittering before sitting down to a delectable meal at any of the restaurants lining the water, only a few of which are the Fifteenth Street Fisheries for the freshest fare with a beer and the popular Shooters Waterfront Café on the Intracoastal Waterway for boating buffs and beach bums.

Even if you’re looking to leave the kids, or bring them along, there’s something for the family, too, with the Ft. Lauderdale Museum of Art or even Sunday Jazz Brunches every first Sunday of the month to mix music, food, and art vendors.

Find a favorite of your own in Ft. Lauderdale, and don’t forget to snag a “suite” deal at the Hilton Singer Island Oceanfront Resort.

For more information and a full listing of upcoming events, please visit the Riverwalk A&E Web site.