De-Stress in Delray

As published in The Florida Villager

“That’s it, I’m out of here.” Ever have one of those days where the walls are closing in on you or the kids have driven you crazy for the past month? Well, that day had arrived for me and I threw some clothes into a bag, jumped in my jeep and headed out of town. As I pulled into Delray Sands I knew I had picked the perfect place for a quick mental and physical reset.

A few minutes drive from the heart of Delray, the hotel was a welcome respite from the sounds of cars and people; quiet and secluded yet so close to town. So, it was on this hot day, I ensconced myself on the patio of the Latitudes restaurant, rumrunner in hand, and felt the ocean breeze caress my neck.

I wanted to go into town but decided that could wait till happy hour and I grabbed a book and made my way to the beach where my chaise and umbrella waited just for me. Nestled on my chaise, I looked out at the azure blue water dotted with the tanned bodies of beach goers and let the sound of the waves lull me into sleep.

It’s 5:00 somewhere, well; actually it was 5:00 when I headed into town to check out the happy hours. I have to admit I made the rounds to Boston’s, Blue Anchor, Atlantic Grill and Caffe Luna Rosa. From there it was all down hill as I stopped off at Sloan’s with it’s multi colored chandeliers, funky walls and novelties for a double scoop of ice cream. Note to self: walk the beach tomorrow.

Back at the hotel, I changed into my bathing suit and slipped into the Jacuzzi and let the water from the rock waterfall cascade over me. The stars came out and there I sat, with only the sound of the water breaking the night’s silence, feeling the most relaxed I had felt in a long time.

I allowed myself to sleep in and had my coffee on the balcony that overlooked the beach. Today I was going to explore the galleries and boutiques that lined Atlantic Avenue. Thought of stopping again at Sloane’s but my voice of reason got the better of me and I kept walking. By now I was getting hungry and I knew exactly what I wanted for lunch. I had seen it on the Latitudes menu the day before, lobster salad with green beans, goat cheese, avocado and caramelized onions. Another afternoon on the beach, a quick nap by the pool and I was ready to dance the night away at Johnnie Browns. The awesome thing about this place is that a single person can go there and always find a dance partner. The live band was great and by 12:00 my feet needed a massage. Back under the stars at the hotel, I took my shoes off and let my feet soak in the Jacuzzi and then limped over to the outdoor fire pit, sunk into the cushioned sofa and had a glass of wine.

As the sun rose, so did I and took a nice long walk on the beach so I could gear up for their Sunday Brunch, voted one of the best in Palm Beach County. Not surprisingly, my only disappointment was that I couldn’t eat more! Note to self: bring a one-piece bathing suit next time.

Not being able to put off the inevitable any longer, I had to accept reality and head home but as I pulled into my driveway I felt rejuvenated and ready for the weeks ahead. Bring it on!

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