The Westin Fort Lauderdale

Thanks to its 2016 renovation, The Westin Fort Lauderdale has a contemporary, upscale look. The lobby greets guests with smooth cream tile floors, stylish light fixtures, modern furniture in mostly subdued hues, and a living wall. It feels swanky for the price, and several guests take advantage of the space, lounging in both the lobby and adjacent lounge bar. A lot of movement makes the atmosphere lively and business-like, and we saw several people decked out in workout gear throughout our stay (perhaps drawn to the hotel's new fitness-forward philosophy). Still, there wasn't much of a vibe going on inside the hotel, with most guests keeping to themselves. This is a suitable pick primarily for business travelers, and vacationing families or couples should consider the similarly priced Westin Beach Resort & Spa, which is across the street from the ocean. 

This property is conveniently located off both I-95 and Cypress Creek Road. There are a handful of chain restaurants and shops within a five- to 10-minute drive, though nothing much within walking distance. Also on the downside, Fort Lauderdale Beach is 15-minute drive away. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is a 15-minute drive south and Miami International Airport is a 35-minute drive south. Downtown Fort Lauderdale and the Fort Lauderdale Convention Center can both be reached within 20 minutes, while Miami Beach is a 40-minute drive. 

Extensive renovations in 2016 gave the 298 rooms and suites a sleek and contemporary look. Comfortable pillow-top beds, functional work spaces, and large pieces of artwork are highlights. The focus is on functionality for work, comfort, and sleep quality. Free "sleep well" lavender oil is a nice touch, though some guests have reported that the single-glazed windows can let in noise. Also on the downside, there is some wear and tear in rooms, and our room smelled a bit musty. Expect gold padded headboards, contemporary light fixtures, reliably fast Wi-Fi, and coffeemakers with Starbucks and TAZO products. Neutral-tone bathrooms have shower/tub combos with rainfall and handheld showerheads, toiletries, hairdryers, and single-sink vanities. All rooms have mini-fridges, large flat-screen TVs, desks, and central AC and heating. Upgrades to Executive Suites come with larger TVs, separate living rooms with sofa beds, and wet bars, while the Governor's and Presidential Suites have kitchenettes and blackout shades. These suites also have furnished balconies with city views.

The Westin Fort Lauderdale comes on strong with its health-friendly features. The 24-hour gym here is small but well-equipped for a decent workout. Guests can expect LifeFitness machines, free weights, and TRX straps, plus a small sauna inside the locker room area. Weekly runs are organized and led by the concierge and three- and five-mile route maps for self-runs are available, with bottled water and chilled towels on return. New Balance workout clothes and shoes are available to rent. Alfiere's Mediterranean Bistro serves healthy and traditional options on the breakfast buffet and a la carte menu. Lunch and dinner are standard Mediterranean fare like pasta and salmon, and the room service menu is similar. On nights the restaurant is closed, the same dinner menu is served at the hotel's Lobby Lounge Bar. This hotel also has a notable 24-hour room service menu featuring tempting healthy items within an overall wide variety of choices for all meals. During the day, guests can grab casual bites, easy cocktails, and beer from the pool menu. The pool area was quiet during our visit, though several loungers were set up on the large surrounding deck. A waterfall and tons of plants make this a relaxing spot to spend the day. Both the outdoor pool and hot tub have chairlifts. This hotel also has over 22,000 square feet of event space -- including the area's only amphitheater -- and can accommodate a maximum of 630 people. Separate catering and banquet menus are available through the hotel. Hotel guests can also use the business computer and printer in the lobby. Pets are welcome here with no fee, but you will need to provide proof of up-to-date vaccinations. Other freebies include fast, reliable Wi-Fi and tons of free parking.