Cheeca Lodge! Sophisticated sanctuary on Islamorada in the Florida Keys by Perrine Meistrell

Guest writer, friend and native New Yorker Perrine Meistrell gives us a window into a luxe spot in the Florida Keys....

I recently was fortunate to enjoy a little weekend getaway to Florida to visit a dear friend at her lovely home in Islamorada, a spot in the Keys new to me. Just an hour and a half south of Miami, Islamorada is a very accessible destination where you nonetheless feel quite blissfully far away, (even from the alternately fun and relaxing scenes in nearby South Beach and Key Biscayne that Mary recently described.) Islamorada was truly beautiful and tranquil, and I loved peacefully gazing out at the endless expanse of the Atlantic ocean from my friend's place.  There is fantastic sailing, scuba, snorkeling and fishing in the Keys if you are looking for a bit of outdoor action as well ..Having always heard tempting tid bits about the nearby chic Cheeca Lodge, we scooted over for a yummy lunch, with friendly service, in a picturesque setting overlooking the sea. I loved this sophisticated hotel and apparently they have a pretty cool spa too. Cheeca Lodge also offers a nice man made beach with soft white sand, a bit of a rarity in the Keys, in addition to some strikingly pretty pools. We didn't peek into the rooms but walking through the property I was impressed with the design.  Cheeca Lodge seems ideal for a romantic weekend away- would love to go back and try staying there sometime! I am definitely looking forward to revisiting the Keys as the winter chill sets in here in NYC.

xx Perrine

P.S. There are many important ways we can all help the victims of Hurricane Sandy in my beloved hometown of NYC, greater NY and in NJ. This link lists a few :  

http://theweek.com/article/index/235620/how-to-help-victims-of-hurricane-sandy