Adventures in Fort Ladida
Topher La Fleur
On the second night of my trip to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, I took off my sandals and curled my feet into the pristine white sand. A friend of mine told me they clean it weekly to keep the beaches safe and tidy. That’s how important beaches are to the livelihood of Florida. If beaches are your bag, there are plenty to choose from in Fort Ladida. Nude ones, gay ones, family ones, private ones … pick a beach, throw out the towel, and make some friends.
In fact, it’s not difficult to make friends in FTL. The locals are largely outnumbered by visitors. This makes them excellent hosts. It also means most people are from elsewhere, something which engenders easy conversation if you’re looking to make a few … friends. (*wink, wink*) If you plan on going out, the Manor Complex is one of a number of excellent nightclubs in Fort Lauderdale. This venue easily hosts 750 people or more per night in differently themed rooms. That said, it’s remarkably easy to enjoy a quiet escape in Fort Lauderdale, which is significantly more tame than her older, wilder sister Miami. Outside the entertainment hubs, I found the city streets quiet by 8pm.
Fort Lauderdale also enjoys its reputation as the “Venice of America.” This landlubber was practically ill on a yacht tour of the canals (which are gorgeous). While I discovered that boating isn’t for me, those with stronger constitutions will be impressed by the level of service and beautiful scenery. Dramatic lovers might consider a deck-top proposal at sunset or a candle-lit dinner for two attended by personal wait staff.
Athletic visitors from the Mile High City should also enjoy their visit to Fort Ladida. Transitioning from altitude to sea-level will make your runs easier and your lifts more impressive. Fort Lauderdale is a very active community, much like Denver, and you’ll have no trouble running, lifting, boating, or playing team sports in the city. I would not highly recommend biking in Fort Lauderdale as the drivers are insane and the roads are narrow.
In all, LGBT travelers should feel warmly welcomed by the South Florida scene — it’s one of the largest and most active LGBT-inclusive communities in the United States. Visitors to Fort Lauderdale will enjoy LGBT- owned hotels, spas, restaurants, beaches, and much more. For those who have never stayed at a destination which understands LGBT needs and wants, expect to be pleasantly surprised. Fort Lauderdale is more than equipped to welcome all styles and strokes, so bring your sunblock — we’re going to South Florida.
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