I just returned from a business trip to south Florida and had a wonderful stay at the Westin Beach Resort and Spa in Fort Lauderdale. The Westin exceeded my expectations in several different ways. First of all, the location and amenities couldn’t be better. The Westin sits directly across the street from the ocean and offers diving, sailing, fishing or just quiet relaxation. They have a rejuvenating spa and fitness center, serene oceanfront pool and enticing dining.

The friendly staff greeted me upon check in and directed me to my room in the south tower. In order to get to the south tower you must walk across their sky bridge and access a different elevator, but this is all very easy to do because they have helpful signs at every turn. My room was spacious and comfortable, and it certainly didn’t hurt that I had two sliding glass doors facing the ocean. As a Starwood Preferred Guest, I opted in for the Make a Green Choice program. The program allows you to earn a $5 food-and-beverage credit or 500 points in your SPG account for every night of your stay if you decline housekeeping services, excluding the day of departure. I was impressed with the program. Housekeeping checked in with me to find out what I needed more of, regardless of my green choice.

I thoroughly enjoyed my dinner at Shula’s on the beach. Everyone was warm and friendly, and the food was delicious. I had lobster bisque, pistachio-encrusted grouper and crab mac ‘n’ cheese. I highly recommend the grouper, and I couldn’t help but try their chocolate molten lava cake, which was amazing. I wish I could have stayed longer to enjoy the beautiful pool, spa and beach, but I will definitely be back in the future to relax at this exceptional resort.

— Christie Rhodes, advertising manager eastern region