For many years now, the city of West Palm Beach on Florida's Atlantic coast has been known as the place to go for those with "old money." But this has now expanded to anyone who enjoys the finer things in life and isn't afraid to pay for it. While there is always an endless array of activities to keep the masses occupied regardless of wealth, for those who can afford it, West Palm Beach offers some experiences that cannot be matched anywhere else in the country.
The Breakers Hotel -- One South County Road Palm Beach, FL, 33480; 888-273-2537; www.thebreakers.com
So how can a hotel be considered high-end? With just one stay at The Breakers, anyone will see why in a hurry. This ultra-luxury hotel was built by Henry Flagler back at the turn of the 20th century and boasts beautiful Grecian architecture with the unmistakable flare of Florida landscaping.
The price to stay at this luxurious hotel of course depends on the time of the visit. The Breakers offers varying rates (all are starting costs per night):
- June 1 to Sept. 30, starting at $269 a night
- October, $319
- Nov. 1-20, $389
- Nov. 20-27, $439
- Dec. 1-17, $349
- Dec. 18-25, $590
- January to April 30, $539
The Breakers Hotel is the definition of luxury and offers amenities not seen anywhere else in Florida. Besides being just steps from pristine beaches, this five-star hotel offers sailboat rentals at $90, massages in their world-renowned spa starting at $120 for 50 minutes, golf on two prestigious courses at a cost of $190 for 18 holes, tennis starting at $25 per hour and so much more. Those who visit usually stay a while in order to get in all the pampering they can and usually leave knowing what true luxury is all about.
The Kravis Center for Performing Arts -- 701 Okeechobee Boulevard West Palm Beach, FL, 33401; 800-KRAVIS-1; www.kravis.org
"Breathtaking" is the only word that can adequately describe the view of The Kravis Center for Performing Arts. The very modern facility offers several venues that are sure to delight any visitor to the Palm Beach area. No matter what time of year it is, there are always wonderful performances to witnesses at Dreyfoos Hall, Rinker Playhouse or at Gosman Amphitheater, which are all part of the Kravis Center for Performing Arts.
While many local acts will perform at the center each year, it is the national acts that simply can't be missed. Some of the more notable acts in recent Kravis Center history include Whoopi Goldberg, Bill Cosby and performances by the Miami City Ballet.
Upcoming events include singing sensations Bryan Adams on Aug. 11 ($58 to $90) and K.D. Lang & Siss Boom Bang on Oct. 8 ($68 to $100). For true upscale culture, there is no finer place than The Kravis Center for the Performing Arts.
International Polo Club Palm Beach -- 3667 120th Avenue South Wellington, FL, 33414; 561-204-5687; www.internationalpoloclub.com
Located just outside of West Palm Beach in Wellington, the International Polo Club Palm Beach brings the traditional game of polo to those who enjoy the finer aspects of sports. The club not only celebrates the game of polo with various matches that can be viewed in the general admission area ($15 ticket with $5 parking), but they also celebrate the lifestyle associated with polo. Everything that a polo fan could imagine can be found at the club, including private boxes, special hospitality tents starting at $50 and so much more.
The grounds are perfect for polo players and fans, which makes perfect sense as they were designed by current and past players. After witnessing one match, it is easy to see why the game of polo represents the finer things in life as does West Palm Beach.




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