travel: ft. lauderdale (florida)

Ft. Lauderdale, a city just north of Miami, is home to only about 15,000, but don’t let that fool you: this popular tourist destination is at the heart of South Florida’s metropolitan area. It’s also where you’ll find (literally) every rich person’s summer house…

Back when I was still tall and my bro!ther was still cute, my family headed off towards Florida to visit the Sunshine State. Bordering the Atlantic Ocean, the city has extensive canal networks, so taking a trip (which, they offer all sorts: two-hour, half-day, full-day, I believe several cruises also pass by…) through the Riverwalks (or out on the ocean) is definitely a must. The river journey we booked took us to a small island that housed a small zoo and alligators, which trainers would perform with.

If the water’s not for you, there are always shops open right alongside the canals and beaches.As I mentioned before, Ft. Lauderdale is at the center of S. Florida’s metropolitan area, so you’ll see the sharp contrast of huge and lovely summer houses against a background of tall, steel buildings.

Key Biscayne is not too far off from here, and for any avid park fans, this is the place to go — whether you’re on the north or south section, the city is dotted with beautiful parks. And of course, here you’ll find a less-crowded beach than Ft. Lauderdale, but it’s just as blue and pretty. We rented a cycle to bike around the beach, and wrapped up the day by watching the sunset on the ocean.

Key Biscayne, a small island east of Miami

Rent-a-cycle

The small restaurants that dot the island are a must!

You can’t go to Florida without making a (or several) stop(s) at the beach.

Streets of Ft. Lauderdale

New River/Riverwalk

Take a trip through the Riverwalk!

Bridges are flexible to allow for ships.

At the alligator farm

These houses are hella expensive…

…but also really pretty!