Sunday, November 6, 2011

THE BREAKERS HOTEL - WEST PALM BEACH, FLORIDA


THE BREAKERS HOTEL
PALM BEACH, FLORIDA 

I have always wanted to visit the Breakers Hotel since seeing it on the Travel Channel.  While I did not stay here, I did spend some time having lunch and enjoying the grounds.  Actually sat in a rocking chair near the courtyard and fell asleep in the warm Florida sun.  Cannot remember when I relaxed like that.  Just shut it all down, closed my eyes and took a nap.  This is a big money place with lots of affluent people enjoying themselves.  Saw some great cars in the valet.  Cars you don't see in Hawaii too often.  Lots of Bentley's, Lamborghini's, Maserati and other cars that I have never seen before.  Wish I could stay here with my girls for a week.


THE BREAKERS HOTEL


MAIN LOBBY OF HOTEL
VIEW OF BEACH FRONTING THE HOTEL

Now in its second century, The Breakers continues the tradition of excellence begun by its founder Henry Morrison Flagler.
A Standard Oil Company magnate, Henry Flagler acquired and built railroads to serve Florida's east coast, opening the once isolated region to development and tourism. In 1894 he built his first hotel in the southeast coast, The Royal Poinciana Hotel at Lake Worth, attracting the elite to what would become the world's premier resort destination, Palm Beach.
Henry Flagler and The Breakers Palm Beach

In 1896, Flagler built a second hotel, The Palm Beach Inn on the beachfront of the Royal Poinciana. Soon guests requested rooms "over by the breakers."  When Flagler redoubled the hotel's size, he renamed it The Breakers. During an expansion project - the fourth in less than a decade - The Breakers burned down on June 9, 1903. Less than a year later on February 1, 1904, it reopened to universal acclaim. Rooms started at four dollars a night, including three meals a day.
The guest register read like a "who's who" of early twentieth century America - Rockefellers, Vanderbilts, Astors, Andrew Carnegie and J.P. Morgan vacationed alongside United States presidents and European nobility. 
The Breakers Palm Beach and Henry Flagler

On March 18, 1925, twelve years after Flagler's death, tragedy struck The Breakers. Fire destroyed the all-wood building. Flagler's heirs were determined to build the world's finest resort as a testament to his vision - and to reopen in time for the 1926-27 winter season.
The New York City-based Turner Construction Company began work in January 1926, modeling the new building after the Villa Medici in Rome.
The Breakers Architecture, Details >
Seventy-five artisans were brought from Italy to complete the magnificent paintings on the ceilings of the 200-foot long main lobby and first-floor public rooms. Far grander than its predecessor, The Breakers remains an unrivaled masterpiece.  


Only one legendary oceanfront resort in North America offers you everything under the sun. Enjoy the extraordinary devotion of a warm and caring staff at this legendary resort celebrated for its matchless reputation. Once you stay, you’ll understand.
The Breakers - Your Florida Vacation
While respecting our rich heritage, The Breakers has spent $250 million over the past decade to continually provide you with the most extraordinary beachfront experience. Set amidst 140 acres of picturesque oceanfront property in the heart of Palm Beach, The Breakers has become a paradise for couples, families and special gatherings. Our highly trained yet intuitive team of 1,800 associates help you bring to life joyous and memorable moments.
We invite you to immerse yourself in a one-of-a-kind experience and take pleasure in an unparalleled array of on-site activities and oceanfront amenities:

  • Lush, tropical beachfront oasis, featuring a private beach and watersports
  • Five sparkling oceanfront pools and four whirlpool spas
  • Mediterranean-style Beach Club reminiscent of the French Riviera
  • 25 daytime beach bungalows with personal beach concierge
  • Serene oceanfront spa offering moonlit massages amid Atlantic breezes
  • 9 distinctive restaurants and 5 bars provide myriad of choices for dining and entertainment
  • 36 holes of championship golf including The Breakers Rees Jones® Course
  • World-class golf instruction, featuring the acclaimed John Webster Golf Academy
  • 10 lighted Har Tru tennis courts and instruction by USPTA/USPTR-certified professionals
  • 10 on-site boutiques including Guerlain and Ralph Lauren
  • Interactive Family Entertainment Center and Kid’s Camp

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