The Grand Resort and Spa - Fort Lauderdale
Beach’s Largest Men’s
Resort
I recently attended a conference in Fort Lauderdale and decided to go down
two days early to check out the scene. A flight from New York, especially Long
Island, is quick and easy. I flew out of Islip and in about three hours left
cold and rainy Long Island and was in warm and sunny Fort Lauderdale. I stayed
at The Grand Resort and Spa, located about 15 minutes from the airport. The Grand
is a gay owned and operated, men’s only resort. With 33 rooms, it is not
a “bath house” resort. This resort is upscale, with a staff that
shows its pride. It has been ten years since it has changed owners, and each
room has been remodeled. Herb Pianin, the general manager, gave me a tour and
explained how he was responsible for most of the decorating. Herb explained that
his pride stems from the fact that he wanted to be able to give back to the gay
community a “proper resort.” This was evident as I explored the property.
The entire resort is immaculate, including the pool and a hot tub that holds
eight. On the second level, above the office, is a sun deck. The two main buildings
are separated by a beautiful garden, perfect for “getting away” from
it all. Continental breakfast is served in a small room off to the side of the
pool. Outside, by the pool, are tables - what a great way to enjoy your morning
coffee, under blue skies, in your bathing suit. The Grand has a workout facility,
so you can keep up with your fitness routine while away from home.
The rooms are very clean and nicely decorated. There are different categories
of rooms, each with a mini fridge, coffee maker and air conditioning. Even the
smallest is quite sufficient for a relaxing vacation. The suite contains a living
and dining area, along with a galley kitchen, large bedroom and bathroom. The
rooms are very bright, with lots of natural light. As I entered my room the radio
was playing, adding to the inviting feeling.
The Spa at the Grand, a full service spa and salon, looks smaller from the
outside than it is. The deep tissue massage that I received from J.D. was definitely
one of the best I have ever received. J.D. has a gift with his hands. Manicures,
pedicures, facials, body scrubs and wraps are all on the spa menu. The hair studio
offers haircuts, hair coloring, bodyscaping and waxing. There are five “Spa
Day Packages” to choose from, including a two hour Couple’s Escape
package.
The Grand definitely lives up to its name. It truly is a grand place to stay,
even as a destination in itself. There are many packages available. The staff
and fellow guests make you feel comfortable from the moment that you step through
the door. It is a great place for couples and singles who enjoy the finer things
in life. The Grand has a 65% repeat rate, and, according to Herb, receives an “exceeds
expectations” rating from 99% of its customers.
If you are interested in booking a trip to The Grand, please give me a call
to receive the best room rate or package. Herb has assured special upgrades for
my clients.
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