Logistics info required for Fort Lauderdale

[laineymb]

We are staying at the Westin Diplomat and arriving a few days prior. Can you tell me how far it is from where the port is (what is the correct name for the Port?) We are trying to figure out where and when to rent a car and where to return it to?

[Bequia]

The Westin Diplomat is a beautiful hotel situated on A1A in Hallandale Beach. Your approximately 20-30 minutes from Port Everglades, a wonderful location. It may not even take you that long on the weekends. IMHO I would rent the car from FLL airport and return it to FLL airport and take a taxi or car rental shuttle to the port.;)

note: Port Everglades is 5 minutes away from Ft Lauderdale Airport

[laineymb]

I am not familiar with this area-is there any shopping, restaurants, beaches in close proximity??

[Bequia]

South of your hotel on A1A Aventura mall.www.shopaventuramall.com This mall has more than 200 shops and is anchored by several major department stores. It also includes restaurants, complimentary and valet parking. The mall underwent a major expansion in 1998 and now is one of the largest regional malls in the country.Michael Jacksons shops in this mall quite frequently, drives the security guards and Police nuts.

If you drive north to the end of A1A you come to John Lloyd State Park. http://www.floridastateparks.org/lloydbeach/default.asp Whats great about this park is that it abutts Port Everglades. You can walk out on a jetty and practically touch the cruise ships when they depart from the port. Great place to take pictures.

Hollywood Beach sports some interesting restaurants on its Broadwalk. Thats just north of the Westin as well. Some fine restaurants on the intercoastal as well. For some great pizza, try Capones Flickerlight. Its on the Intercoastal north of you. Be sure to sit outside its beautiful place for sunsets.

Your in a great hotel in a great location with plenty to do. Good choice! :)