Florida Pet-Friendly Vacation
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (April 4, 2008) – Florida’s four-legged friends deserve to lie in the lap of luxury, as opposed to their owners, when they are on vacation. It’s a “ruff” life and VISIT FLORIDA®, the state’s official source for travel planning, wants to pamper pooches and fancy-up felines alongside their well-deserving owners. The Sunshine State’s luxury resorts offer some of the best pet spa treatments, amenities and many tail-wagging activities, paws down! Treat your “very important pets” to a Florida vacation that will have them all ears.
CLEARWATER – Let your tail down and relax with the Belleview Biltmore Resort & Spa’s pet-friendly spa menu. Guests can partake in the “Pampered Pooch Services Package” that includes a Fountain of Youth facial, a Chardonnay manicure and pedicure for you, and a shampoo, style and “manicure” for your furry friend. For the works, try the “Poochie Couture” with a shampoo, style, teeth brushing and La Pooch Perfume. Pets can now put their best foot forward after their “Paw Painting” or a touch of nail art. The pet’s makeover is topped off with a couture bow or bandana to complete the new look. (727) 373-3000. www.belleviewbiltmore.com.
ST. PETE BEACH – Pets can play at the Don Cesar Beach Resort, affectionately dubbed the “Pink Palace,” for its unmistakable pink exterior. The new “Paws in Paradise” package hosts guests and their pets with one night’s accommodations for two and dinner for two at the Sea Porch café. You can also dine with your canine with room service delivery for you and your pet. Really want to indulge with your pooch? A masseuse will visit your room for a 50-minute owner and dog rub-down. (727) 360-1881. www.doncesar.com.
ST. PETE BEACH – Squeeze in a little “R & R” for Rover at the TradeWind’s Island Grand Resort. Their new “Pet Play Zone” is a leash-free park situated on the beachfront dunes overlooking the waterway. The doggie-designed play area is fully equipped with fire hydrants, drinking fountains and umbrellas for napping in the shade. After working up an appetite, order in from the pet-only room service menu, including specialty meats, gourmet pet food and special treat packs. The Doggie Accessory Center is stocked with bowls, leashes, toys and towels for furry guests to use during their vacation at the TradeWind’s Island Grand Resort. (727) 367-6461. www.justletgo.com.
Pet Friendly Florida Vacation
SARASOTA – Enjoy marvelous views of the gulf with man’s best friend at the Ritz-Carlton Sarasota. Owners can rejuvenate in the spa and then treat their faithful friend to some relaxation. In-room pet massages are available for pet guests. But owners should take note, because this is also a lesson for you on the benefits of massage for your pet, and a chance to learn techniques to repay your pets for their loyalty. (941) 309-2000. www.ritzcarlton.com.
BONITA SPRINGS – Dig in at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa with its “Paws and Palms” program. Pet-friendly rooms are outfitted with a miniature matching bed, food and water bowls. Forget the kibbles, you’re on vacation. Room service can deliver appetizers, a main course and a frozen doggie delight to cool down your canine. Forgot your toys at home? The Hyatt Regency Coconut Point has a whole stash of souvenirs to take home with you. (239) 444-1234. www.coconutpoint.hyatt.com.
MIAMI – At the Mandarin Oriental, pets get royal treatment, just like their owners. Princely pups are welcomed with a plush bed, a food bowl and tasty treats. Thirsty for more? The Mandarin Oriental staff replenishes water bowls with Evian water in a nightly turn-down water service. There is also a walking service if owners are too busy enjoying the first-class spa or ritzy amenities on site. (305) 913-8288. www.mandarinoriental.com.
To learn more about VISIT FLORIDA, visit www.VISITFLORIDA.org.
