Fort Lauderdale is a veritable paradise set against warm Gulf Stream waters and a thriving metropolis and as well as a fabulous and favorite vacation spot to many.

The area is known for its cultural events, and the city's Port, Port Everglades, is the second busiest cruise port in the world.

If you'll be departing on a cruise boat from Fort Lauderdale, or if you're visiting for business or a family vacation for a few days for some well deserved rest and relaxation, consider staying at one of Fort Lauderdale's several first class hotels and resorts instead of just another run-of-the-mill hotel.

Among the resorts, are the Hyatt Regency at Pier 66, the Palm Aire Resort, and the Registry. At the Hyatt's exclusive Spa LXVI (pronounced "Spa 66"), you'll find a spanking new facility due to a complete renovation. Relax in the cool forest green waiting area in anticipation of your personalized treatment. Spa products include Phytomer, Babor, Sothys and Judith Jackson. The spa is over 6,000-square feet and has eight treatment rooms, two facial rooms, a hydro-massage room, and a wet room with vichy shower. A four-hour "Spa Day" package (this doesn't include lodging or meals) will set you back around $185. Then, when you're limp as a noodle, go lay on the beach or sleep by the pool.

If you're more interested in a resort hotel than a spa, consider the Lago Mar. This resort has 212 rooms and sits right on the beach. It is suitable for families or couples, and has 52 oversized guestrooms and 160 suites. Many rooms have private balconies that overlook the ocean, Lake Mayan or the hotel's lush, exotic gardens. There are lots of on-site activities besides the beach and the ocean.

The hotel's courtyard setting has two swimming pools, table tennis, a playground, shuffleboard and tennis. Beach volleyball is on site, and if the kids get too much sun the game room will keep them occupied for a while. A humorous outdoor chessboard will provide great fun - the pieces are larger than a four-year-old child! The resort is close to shopping, shipping lanes and the port. View of cruise ships and commercial vessels are great, and the Palm Garden Dining Room provides fantastic meals. Lago Mar even accommodates business travelers with a conference center capable of hosting meetings in four separate rooms.

There are other great resorts here, and we'll feature new ones each month so we can do them all justice. But for now, check out our Fort Lauderdale Hotels section for a list of amenities and locations on those accommodations with current discounts, and get ready to have a great time.