Hola from downtown NYC! I flew back yesterday, though planning on heading back tomorrow afternoon – just in time for Christmas Eve!! (fingers crossed that JFK won’t be too chaotic – airport travel the day before Christmas is always a bit unsettling for me).
These photos were taken from our mini family excursion to the Ritz Carlton on Vanderbilt Beach, in Naples Florida. We had originally spent a “couples getaway” there last year (full feature here) – aka what was effectively our first time away from bubs (and yours truly managed to handle that for less than 24 hours before she finally broken down brought baby to the hotel).
Fast-forward nearly a year later, and here we are!!
Really, I think that this place is one of the best kept secrets in town (I’m almost a bit hesitant to blog about it). The outdoor restaurant at the Ritz Naples is open to the public (note, they don’t take reservations so be sure to call in advance or get there early!). Not only is the food delicious, but the ambience is also incredibly relaxing and all-in-all killer gorgeousness (how could it not be when you’re facing the white sand beach and turquoise ocean?). Munchkin loved the outdoor al-fresco dining atmosphere at Gumbo Limbo, and he was even more keen to go out and explore post brunch (the kiddo shovel courtesy of the hotel was just an added bonus).
Oh, and do try the grouper sandwich if you ever go, it’s freshly caught the same-day, and it is absolutely delicious!!! (Ask for the hot sauce too, you won’t regret it).
Lastly – be sure to pause and appreciate the gigantic multi-story gingerbread house in the lobby, that alone was worth the valet parking!
Happy holidays you guys… and hope that you and your loved ones will have a fantastic Christmas Eve come tomorrow!!! I still need to finish wrapping a few things… #busymommyelf
