By Bonnie Siegler
Since opening its doors in 1958, a veritable who’s who of the rich and famous has walked through the halls of The Diplomat Beach Resort in Hollywood, Florida.
Frank Sinatra and his Rat Pack frequented the resort, as did the Kennedys, Reagans, Mohammed Ali, Tony Bennett, Mel Brooks and former U.S. Presidents Bill Clinton and George Bush, Jr. just to name a few. In fact, every elected U.S. president to date has enjoyed the amenities and luxury of The Diplomat. Guests have been entertained by the melodic sounds of Sinatra and Judy Garland, while laughter filled the ballroom with Bob Hope at the mic.
Perfectly situated between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, the iconic property just completed a US$100-million transformation, boasting 1,000 guestrooms and suites, 10 different culinary locations, two pools, an ultramodern spa and fitness centre and more than 200,000 square feet of meetings and event space.
So, what has always been the draw for the rich and famous (plus those just looking for an ultra-vacation, as was the case in my recent visit)?
Year-round sunshine
“With year-round sunshine from the Atlantic coast to Intracoastal, The Diplomat is meant to create happy, genuine and memorable vacation experiences”, says Lauren Zieren, General Manager of the resort.
“We’re at the very heart of Hollywood but there is an array of activities guests can enjoy in the area while staying here. The Everglades, sea turtle excursions, world class art museums, luxury and outlet shopping and so much more.”
The ideal location is 10 minutes from casino and nightlife at The Village at Gulfstream Park and 20 minutes away from dining on famed Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale. But, as I always say, there’s no such thing as too much shopping. After a day of adding to the coffers of a few boutiques, and golf for my husband, I decided to take advantage of the resort’s Spa and Wellness, especially noting the variety of signature eco-friendly treatments offered.
Their Holistic Hydration facial had my skin glowing while my husband opted for the healing Herbalistic Ritual Massage which incorporates Mary’s Nutritionals CBD Oil Massage and muscle freeze products that not only helped relieve his muscle tension and pain in his body after 18 holes, but also gave him an overall sense of well-being.
“Our fit and wellness philosophy here means fitness is a mind, body and spiritual journey”, states spa director Shane Upson.
Indoor and outdoor activities for all
While the resort offers many outdoor activities ranging from ocean kayaking to sandy beach volleyball, coming from Southern California, I am fully aware no amount of SPF could shield me enough from the day’s unrelenting sunshine. Instead, I rented one of the Trina-Turk designed poolside cabanas and read an old Dennis Lehane book.
Okay, the sunrise beach yoga sounded like a plan to begin my second day, but I guess I just wasn’t ready to begin my next day at dawn. A Pilates class later in the morning was more to my liking and timing. The outdoor Jacuzzi was a wonderful, relaxing treat at sunset. In fact, sunrise and sunset are themes displayed in the guestroom theme designs.
“Sunrise rooms are modern, vibrant and refreshing with earthy tones that provide a calm atmosphere while sunset rooms present a more subtle, modern and organic design giving guests a front seat view to stunning sunsets”, explains Zieren. As you might have already guessed, sunrise is not my choice time of day. We opted for the sunset themed room with a view overlooking South Florida’s west horizon. Absolutely beautifully coloured sunsets.
Culinary delights
During our three-day stay at The Diplomat, I had the chance to experience an array of culinary delights.
“We boast 10 new world class restaurant and bar concepts”, says Zieren. “Each exudes brand individuality, distinct spaces and experience.”
Indeed, we had to try Monkitail by famed Chef Michael Schulson, which was awarded USA Today’s Best Hotel Restaurant and Best New Restaurant in 2017. Candy & Cones was a must for my sweet tooth with their innovative house-made ice creams and candies. Point Royal is great for breakfast and brunch with a fantastic Raw Bar.
“The Diplomat’s grand mindset and offerings provides travelers and locals with the ease they seek, whether visiting for business or pleasure”, sums up Zieren on what the property hopes guests take with them after a stay. “It’s a modern day all-encompassing resort that brings a collection of experiences together.”
I couldn’t agree more.
