Starwood Preferred Guest - Fort Lauderdale: which hotel? pre 2007 discussion [Master Thread]

I will be at Fort Lauderdale for the first week of August. I would like to know which Sheraton is better in terms of service and upgrade. I have my wife with me and I am a Platinum.

Thanks,

Neither one is anything special. If you have the option, stay at the Westin Diplomat -- about 15 minutes south of FLL airport. Spectacular hotel, the Trader and Clipper don't even come close.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by BTlover:
I will be at Fort Lauderdale for the first week of August. I would like to know which Sheraton is better in terms of service and upgrade. I have my wife with me and I am a Platinum.

Thanks, </font>

Stayed at the Clipper (as Gold)a year ago, Trader this past month (as Plat). Prefer the Yankee Trader, received a suite upgrade, offered amentiy check-in and great steaks at Shula's! Not as nice as the Westin, but that was beyond our budget.

I stayed at the one more south of the two. can't remember the name.

It's not a very well appointed property, more towards the low end of the chain.
I had a terrible experience with the guy who puts out the beach chairs in front of my daughter but I don't hold it against the property because I never complained and so am unable to comment on how they would have handled it.

I will say this: I got an exceptional upgrade. Probably the reason I bit my toungue after being treated badly at the beach. I also found most the staff to be very nice for a lower moderate resort of its type.

They both suck. Sometimes the SPG points are just not worth it. If you can, stay at the Bal Harbour resort.

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/Forum74/HTML/002932.html

Like NYC1 said, go for Bel Harbour

I would like some suggestions as to which hotel would be the best. Some background to help.

I am a Platinum
Will be in for 4 days, all R&R
I will have a rental car
I enjoy drinking by the pool and taking in the local attractions, maybe a little golf

1. I have heard that the Yankee Clipper and Trader are near all the action but I would also like some elegence. The Westin beds are real appealing and have heard good thing abouth the Westin Diplomat and Bal Harbour.
2. The Westin Diplomat does not have Govt rates avail for that time frame or a 50% off rate and told they are filling up, so an upgrade is probably pretty slim.
3. The Bal Harbour does have the 50% off rate but is 16 miles away, or is it?
4. I will probably use points for 2 of the nights if I cant get a good rate.
5. The Yankees are only like 100.00 a night, so a good rate there.
6. Would really like a upgrade if possible but not necessarily a decision maker.

After reading this it almost sounds like a personal ad http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif I have read all the threads on Bal and Westin Diplomat but not that much on the Yankees. Anyway, thanks for any hints or advice.

AL

Diplomat all the way.

Have heard poor things about the Yankee Clipper. The Yankee Trader probably should be renamed the Mets Pushcart Peddler

amlowe,

There have been many threads discussing Ft. Lauderdale Starwoods.

You will be able to find much more information (much more quickly I might add) by using the FlyerTalk search function.

Just search the Starwood forum for Ft. Lauderdale.

-Chris

------
Edited to add:
My aunt/uncle got a 1 king bed "suite" at the Clipper 2 weeks ago as gold on 2 separate 1 night stays (pre & post-cruise).

[This message has been edited by chrislacey (edited 08-02-2003).]

It begins and ends at one place - The Diplomat. No question, no doubt.

Definitely the Diplomat. As a platinum, you should get at least a corner suite, possibly an oceanfront suite.

Definitely, the Diplomat. The Yankee Clipper lives up to its name -- and it is OLD. Bal Harbour is nice but a long haul from FLL although closer to South Beach if that interests you.

Avoid the Clipper. I thought a nice beach-front diversion would be called for a few months ago versus a closer-to-the-airport property (was a very short in-out trip)...this is one more run-down property. No upgrade for this PLAT though I admit it was a late 11PMish check-in so all best rooms may have been assigned by then.

Sheraton should pull the flag IMO or make them spend some serious money upgrading.

I have stayed also at the Bal Harbour and give it 2 thumbs-up. For R&R, I can't imagine much better in the Miami area.

Diplomat... I booked a AAA discounted rate for mid Oct, regular room etc. All I requested was 'an ocean view if possible'. As a Platinum, when my confirm came back it now shows upgraded to corner suite on the club floor with views of both ocean & intercoastal. To be honest, this is the first time I've been confirmed in a suite prior to arrival at any Starwood in recent memory!! (And I've been Platinum--on stays, not comps for the past 4 years!)

Unless you have lots of business/plans that will take you into Fort Lauderdale on your R&R, my vote is for the Bal Harbour. (Admittedly I've never stayed at the Diplomat).

As a Plat, the Bal Harbour treats you like ROYALTY!

I had an incredible experience at the Bal Harbour a year ago. Was upgraded to the top floor ocean front corner suite. Great room, awesome view and a fabulous bathroom. Treated very well!

Haven't stayed at the Diplomat, but, based on people's experiences there, can't wait to try it this fall.

Are we talking The Diplomat, a Luxury Collection property, or The Westin Diplomat? The latter looks like a high-end Westin. Both appear to be more or less in the same area.

Needless to say, I'm a little confused about which is which.

Also, which property claims "Diplomatic Amy," who posts here on occasion?

I'm curious, as this might be a good destination for a weekend getaway with my wife this fall or winter.

[This message has been edited by Pietro (edited 08-04-2003).]

Pietro, now you've got me wondering??? I'm confirmed at the 3555 South Ocean Drive Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa--- which one is that?? The newer one on the ocean or the golf resort inland??

Good question, mauld -- let me know if you find out. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif (And please post a review, too.)

The Diplomat Country Club & Spa is one mile north of The Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa. DiplomaticAmy is revenue manager for both properties.

Sincerely,

William R. Sanders
Customer Service Coordinator
Starwood Preferred Services

guest.forum@starwoodhotels.com

Thanks, William -- I'll be shooting an e-mail to Amy with some questions in advance of our trip.

Go for the Diplomat. I've stayed there twice this year and each time was fantastic. I can't wait to go there again.

The only one I stayed at was the airport location, which I stayed one night at recently. I didn't check out the hotel much, but as a platinum they gave me a 2 story corner suite. It had a 2 bay suite on one floor with a spiral stair leading up to a bedroom on the top floor, or you could get to that room via the hallway. I think it had 3 bathrooms and I wished I had a client meeting there. Very impressive for a cheapo room at the airport!

Also, their pool and hot tub were quite nice and open 24 hours which was great since I got in late at night and had to leave right away in the morning.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by amazing nj:
Go for the Diplomat. I've stayed there twice this year and each time was fantastic. I can't wait to go there again.</font>
As they are both Diplomat (...Resort & Spa and Westin....), I'd still like to know which one I'm at: the newer one on the beach (I hope, I hope), or the other one with the golf course ??? I imagine they must have some confusion on a regular basis with so similar names.

Greeting from Sunny South Florida!

First, and always, I’d like to thank everyone for his or her very kind words about our fabulous properties! We are very proud of both of out hotels ~ and I hope that all of you will have an opportunity to stay at both – they are very different in style and feel – and both fantastic in their own ways!

The Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa is located at 3555 South Ocean Drive in Hollywood, FL – located on the ocean, it is a 36 story, 998 room mega hotel and convention center with a lot of activity. It embodies modern luxury and offers a fabulous poolscape with "stacked" pools. Broward County's #1 rated steak house, Hollywood Prime, is also housed at the Westin, along with Satine, our second fine dining experience (Asian-fusion with continental accents) which transforms to a high energy, extremely popular South Beach style nightclub at night, particularly on Thursday's. For more information, please visit our web site at www.diplomatresort.com. (http://www.diplomatresort.com.) (Mauld, you are currently reserved at The Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa – the resort on the ocean side).

The Diplomat Country Club (part of Starwood's Luxury Collection) is a simply charming, a smaller 60 room hotel that makes you feel more like you are staying at a country estate. While our award winning Joe Lee designed golf is what most people think of with the Club, it's important to note that the 30,000 sq ft European style Spa that supports both hotels is located at the Club. The Club also houses our phenomenal tennis facility, if you by any chance play tennis. And of course, the Club has it's own private pools - one in the spa, and a second outside. As well, the Club has it's own lovely restaurant, Links Grill, and a charming bar named the Tack Room in honor of the bar at the original Diplomat. For more information on the Diplomat Country Club, please visit www.diplomatcountryclub.com. (http://www.diplomatcountryclub.com.)

As William mentions, I have the privilege of overseeing both the Resort & Country Club, and as always, I welcome all of you to contact me directly regarding any future reservations you may need.

Kind Regards,

Amy Savage Garces
Director of Revenue Management
The Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa
The Diplomat Country Club & Spa
Phone 954.602.8711
Fax 954.602.8272

Amy, thank you very much for clearing that up http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

To Amy - How close (physically) are the two facilities? Can a guest walk from one preperty to the other? Is a courtesy shuttle available if too far to walk (or in case of rain)? Thanks!

Hi Non-Non Rev ~

The hotels are about a mile apart, across the intracoastal from eachother. While it is walkable, it is on very busy roads, and I wouldn't recommend it. We have a shuttle that runs between the two hotels for your convenience.

Kind Regards,

Amy Savage Garces
Director of Revenue Management
The Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa
The Diplomat Country Club & Spa
Phone : 954.602.8711
Fax: 954.602.8272

I'm faced with the same choice for an upcoming Ft. Lauderdale stay: the Sheraton Yankee Clipper and the Sheraton Yankee Trader. I would like to know if anybody has recent (late 2003 to present) experiences with either property.

And before anyone points it out, I have done my due diligence and read all the older threads on this subject. I also have checked out TripAdvisor as well. And, no, as much as I'd like to stay at the Diplomat, I don't want my client to have to pay the price premium. So, for me, its a choice between the Clipper and Trader. The rate at both properties is a wash. So which one should I choose.

In case it makes a difference, I am a (newly minted) SPG Gold. Will I be in a better position in terms of scoring an upgrade at either property. And if I reserve the least expensive room (e.g. a double, smoking, city view), can I have a reasonable expectation, space available of course, of getting a non-smoking oceanview with a king size bed? Or should I cough up a few more dollars for a better room from which to start off?

cAAl,

Toured both in December. I would easily take the Trader over the Clipper. The Clipper is a series of smaller buildings and just older & more run down. The Trader is a step or two over the Clipper and has an over head walkway that let's you out right on a huge public beach. The Trader has a second floor outdoor pool with a decent deck around it, which is also the point that you access the beach overhead walkway.

ORDNorth: That's exactly the type of feedback I was looking for. I will go with the Trader. Thanks for your insight.

As for the upgrade, an interesting update. When I originally booked the room on Monday, I reserved the least expensive, a city view, smoking room. However, when I checked my reservation a few minutes ago, I noticed that although the rate has remained the same, my room has changed to a non-smoking, ocean view with a king size bed, exactly as I had hoped. Does Starwood process room upgrades prior to check-in or were the Starwood gods somehow smiling on me?

I stayed in the Clipper about a year/half ago, and I can honestly say it is one of the few Sheratons I would never return to. And, I can't point to any one bad experience except the sense that whoever owns this property must be milking every penny and spending precious little to update much less enhance much less modernize. It literally reminded me of a worn out Motel 6. The front desk personnel were pleasant, and all the staff was pleasant and upbeat, but the physical plant was a time warp to a 70s hotel...in terms of shabbiness and modern "look and feel". Don't know any better way to explain it.

Did not get a chance to check out the Trader.

Best of luck.

I just completed 5 nights (vacation) at the Trader about 4 weeks ago ... while I can't compare it to the Clipper as I've never stayed there, I'd be happy to share my experience if you would like. Overall the property was average for a full-service beach hotel. Managed to get an upgrade to an ocean-front corner room (is that even an upgrade?) as PLT, and scored an ocean-front room for some friends, non-status, that were staying with me. Pool, restaurant, decor all unremarkable but acceptable. They did have the new beds, albeit done in a somewhat hideous pattern ...

Can't think of much else to share. Feel free to send a note if you'd like to know more!

I stayed at the Clipper in January and I have to agree with ILUVCITIBANK. This hotel has seen better days, sometime in the 80's. Do not know about the Trader.

Both are old properties.....You have to walk and walk to your room and they have that old motel smell. Diplomat is nice put severe service problems as they have union problems..Check and see if the Atlantic is open, otherwise check out teh Ft Lauderale Westin (no Beach)

Try this one....it's relatively close (closer...) to Ft. Lauderdale, it's fairly new, the rooms are very new (new Sheraton beds, etc.), and it's relatively inexpensive.

Nice pool area, hotel is right on I-95, and just about two minutes from FLL.

Less than a 5 minute drive to beaches....Dania/Hollywood/Ft. Lauderdale are all just due east. :p

yes, i did a search first. there really isn't a good thread comparing and contrasting the bevy of Starwood properties in Fort Lauderdale...so, i thought i'd start one given that summer isn't going to last forever. ;)

i guess the westin is more of a business hotel, from what i have read.

any other thoughts? what's the best beach hotel, etc?

thanks.

Id say stay away from both the Yankee Trader and Clipper. Word is The Atlantic is the place to be. its across from the beach. passed it a few months ago just B4 they opened so I cant comment except to say if you want beach front and SPG, its the place hands down.
Been to Sher Suites Cypress Creek, not impressed in the lest. NO Sleeper Beds. Its an Old Embassy suites. I much preferred the Suites in Plantation only 10/15 mins away. it offered FREE breakfast, computer use both of which CC doesnt.
Stayed at the Airport(FLL) only cause early morn flight and gave the car back, they charge for parking but besides Suites Plantation the only SPG with shuttle service to the airport.
The Westin was OK, my a/c didnt work and the hot tub outside was cold. Other than that a Westin.
Then of cause further down the coast is The Diplomat and Sher Bar Harbour which both are resorts, with great posts about them. I havent stayed as I prefer non-resorts if Im on biz or for just being able to get in & out of the prop. Also HATE being hit for Resort fees if not using them, and parking is a killer in fees.
hope it helps

Not enough good things can be said about the Diplomat!

The comments about the SPG properties in or near FLL are VERY accurate and right on target. I have been rather disappointed with most of these properties.

I, too, am anxious to check out the ATLANTIC. A little pricey but....! Has anyone stayed there yet?

In case it's useful to anyone..

Ft Lauderdale Starwoods (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=173706) (as linked in the stickied faq post at the top of the forum)
Diplomat in Hollywood: Attention all Platinums (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=175890)
Atlantic Hotel Ft Lauderdale (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=322013)
Starwood hotels in Miami (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=335699)
The Atlantic - Any stay reports yet? (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=334522)
Best in South Florida? (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=323900)
Sheraton Yankee Clipper and Trader, which one is better? (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=171209)
Sheraton Suites Cypress Creek Fort Lauderdale - Beware! (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=175195)
Any Recent Reviews on the Ft. Lauderdale Sheraton Airport? (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=173980)
Upgrade Experience at Westin Ft. Lauderdale (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=173009)
Starwood in Florida; the Good, the Bad and the Shabby (WARNING Very Long) (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=172460)
Sheraton Yankee Trader - Ft. Lauderdale (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=171946)
One night in FLL. Ideas? (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=171702)
Sheraton Bal Harbor (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=170902)
Westin Fort Lauderdale vs. Sheraton Bal Harbour (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=169959)
Sheraton in Miami or Fort Lauderdale (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=169400)

yes, i did a search first. there really isn't a good thread comparing and contrasting the bevy of Starwood properties in Fort Lauderdale...so, i thought i'd start one given that summer isn't going to last forever. ;)

i guess the westin is more of a business hotel, from what i have read.

any other thoughts? what's the best beach hotel, etc?

thanks.

My last stay in Ft Lauderdale was two years ago. I stayed at the Westin - lovely hotel - but the first night they were overbooked, so I was walked to the Sheraton Suites down the road. They claimed it wa a comparable property. It wasn't even close. Dingy, dated rooms. Overall run down appearance. Unless there have been major renovations in the last two years, avoice the Sheraton Suites Fort Lauderdale at all costs!

Heck, even if the hotel was renovated, they surely didn't reroute the freight train line that passes in fron of the hotel. What genious decides to build a hotel next to reailroad tracks?

The Westin Diplomat isn't so great as you'd think. We had a convention, and one of my clients pointed out a few features of the Diplomat that I may not have noticed:

No suite upgrades for platinums. This may have just been the convention but I can tell you that neither me, that client, nor any other SPG Plats were in suites that week that I am aware of, and I asked around the lounge. Everyone was upset.

The beach is REALLY tiny and not as nice as you'd think. When we were there it was closed.

Only single showerheads. I think everyone noticed this. Not really a big deal, but if you're advertising it, you probably should deliver it.

The Heavenly Bed wasn't heavenly at all. My client actually took pictures of the bed they supplied! It was a Sealy Posturpedic with standard Westin sheets and stuff. One of the pictures he took was him holding up the Westin merchandise catalog next to the bed - the cutaway view of the bed next to the actual bed, to prove they had not supplied the right bed. This client is a little crazy about beds I guess. But that's the point of staying at a Westin, right?

The place is mucho expensive. They tack on a $16 a day resort fee, whether you like it or not. A bottle of water from your honor bar is $5.50 for the small, and $7 for the large. A hot dog (no fries) is $10 and then you have to tip them etc - so a hot dog came out to $12! Granted, it was a pretty good dog, but still... Also drinks here are really expensive.

The building is pretty nice, but the hotel staff is HORRIBLE. They were ignorant, rude, and demonstrated behavior unbecoming to Starwood employees. The breakfast was decent (no hot food), and the view from the lounge is REALLY nice. The rooms were a little smaller than I was used to. The internet was slow.

Perhaps the hospitality in the whole area is poor, I haven't spent enough time in FL to know, but I would say that the Diplomat was a letdown from an SPG point of view.

The building is pretty nice, but the hotel staff is HORRIBLE. They were ignorant, rude, and demonstrated behavior unbecoming to Starwood employees.

can you elaborate? and, hopefully you reported the offenders to starwood. if you don't, things will never change. ;)

thanks.

Re: Diplomat

Beach is now closed for the summer, as erosion has washed it away.

Did you know there was suite availability? This hotel has been the best for me in upgrading without being asked. To some of the most amazing rooms ever.

Staff has been absolutely fabulous to me.

It is pricey. But last stay was $178, a great price (true, plue resort fee and really high parking fee).

Still one of my favorite Starwoods in the country by far.

I wasn't bothered too much by it but you can be assured that my client wrote mary mother of letters. I am not going to go into it too much though.

I do know that I sat in one of the restaurants for 20 minutes with no waiter. I then gave up and walked out, then went back in and asked for a new table before I got a waiter. Another morning we waited 15 minutes over breakfast for a little cup of ketchup.

The whole upgrade thing to me was a massive turnoff - I spoke with several SPG's and they all said the hotel didn't even bother trying to upgrade them.

They also had a thing about closing bars early - the restaurant at the pool deck overlooking the ocean closed at 5:00. So much for dinner and a sunset. Also I was hot tubbing late night and they closed the bar on us. To get a drink you had to get dried off, get dressed, hike all the way up the stairs, go back into the hotel, enter an indoor bar, wait for a really busy bartender, order your drinks, pay inordinately high prices, then walk all the way around the pool and downstairs and back into the hot tub. It takes 20 mins to get a drink from start to finish. That's convenience I guess.

I wasn't bothered too much by it but you can be assured that my client wrote mary mother of letters. I am not going to go into it too much though.

I do know that I sat in one of the restaurants for 20 minutes with no waiter. I then gave up and walked out, then went back in and asked for a new table before I got a waiter. Another morning we waited 15 minutes over breakfast for a little cup of ketchup.

The whole upgrade thing to me was a massive turnoff - I spoke with several SPG's and they all said the hotel didn't even bother trying to upgrade them.

They also had a thing about closing bars early - the restaurant at the pool deck overlooking the ocean closed at 5:00. So much for dinner and a sunset. Also I was hot tubbing late night and they closed the bar on us. To get a drink you had to get dried off, get dressed, hike all the way up the stairs, go back into the hotel, enter an indoor bar, wait for a really busy bartender, order your drinks, pay inordinately high prices, then walk all the way around the pool and downstairs and back into the hot tub. It takes 20 mins to get a drink from start to finish. That's convenience I guess.

this is very helpful. thanks.

they also seem like PERFECT comments to the hotel GM. i wouldn't assume management simply doesn't care. most starwood GMs that i have had contact with are open to constructive criticism (some more open than others).

Stayed at the Atlantic two weekends ago and it's amazing. I didn't think it'd be that great 'cause of the street you have to cross to get to the beach and the reviews on trip advisor had me worried but the pool and the spa are so nice, there's no point to going across. We had a corner suite w/ a ocean view. There's 2 bose CD players in the living and bed rooms and the kitchen set's really nice but we didn't end up making use of it. Had breakfast at Trina the next morning which although was good, I think the Diplomat's was slightly better. Other than that, they're two completely different hotels both amazing in their own ways but you should make it to the Atlantic, esp while it's the off-season and the rates are decent

I stayed at the plantation about 2 weeks ago. was about 30 minutes from ft lauderdale by car.. It was a great place. was upgraded to club floor on my 2nd stay. Same as the "normal" room except for a fax machine and my free water! Would not hesitate to stay at this property again.

I too would stay away from the Yankee Clipper. I went down there as a Gold & got a pretty crappy room in the older of the 2 buildings. Their claim to fame is that a bar scene from Analyze This was filmed there. The hotel isn't that nice. Luckily, I was paying a pretty cheap weekend rate though.

Not enough good things can be said about the Diplomat!

The comments about the SPG properties in or near FLL are VERY accurate and right on target. I have been rather disappointed with most of these properties.

I, too, am anxious to check out the ATLANTIC. A little pricey but....! Has anyone stayed there yet?

I paid an intro rate of $179

I have stayed at the Atlantic Hotel - It is nothing short of Awesome.
I am a platinum member, and boy do they know how to treat platinums.

I will detail the stay....

- Pulled up to the valet, Belhop takes luggage, and invites you to sit down in the check in lounge.
- Tom, our personal assistant handles the entire check-in process, and brings us the room key.
- we follow tom to the room, and on the way, he shows us around the hotel, restaurant, pool and spa, etc.
- they we got to the room. The Biggest hotel room, i have ever seen, a small apartment i might add. - $1200 rack rate for the room, 1200 square feet, kitchen, full living room, bedroom, 1 1/2 baths, one with whirlpool, glass shower. Plus ocean view from the entire suite, over 50 feet of sliding glass windows, overlooking the ocean. Breathtaking.
-The Atlantic is definaltey a 5-star property. Rivals any of the St Regis that I have visited, but with some W-charm.
- Trina, the signature restaurant was excellent, yet very affordable. Average entire was $15-$25.
- The pool and the spa on the 5th floor was great. When you walk out to the pool area, one of the bar tenderes brings u a towel and offers you a drink. You sit in the pool or on a lounge chair overlooking the atlantic ocean.
- Only drawback, is there is no property, just hotel, and you have to walk across the street to get to the beach, plus the views on the left and right are of some older motels, definnately in need of demolision

Thanks for this thread. We were booked to stay at the Diplomat in 2 weeks, but when I read this I contacted my platinum concierge, who confirmed the problems with the Diplomat's beach. She suggested we move to the Atlantic so we are doing that and can report back after our stay. I am looking forward to it!

Stayed there this week.

Positives:
upgraded to a suite
platimun amenity offered immediately at check-in

Negatives:
poor location
15th floor had a strong mildewy type smell
a/c in the room barely worked
shower drain did not drain well (a pet peeve of mine - having my feet in a couple of inches of water by the end of the shower)

why do u say poor location. the website claims near nitelife and shopping, im guessing not so>

Have traveled to FLL a few times on business, staying at a different property each time. Stays at the Yankee Clipper and Westin Ft. Lauderdale were quick overnight stays about two years ago so there's not much to report, but my stay at the Westin Diplomat was 3 nights about nine months ago.

Yankee Clipper - Perfect hotel for college students on spring break - surrounding area had lots of cheap-looking bars and liquor stores. Beach was close enough for a walk before breakfast. Gym was small and equipment was old. Room was small and dingy, full of bugs. Was only gold when I stayed, so don't know whether upgrade would have been available for plat. Would definitely not go back.

Westin FLL - Typical Westin room with Heavenly Bed, shower, etc. Decent gym, lots of cardio equipment though I forget what the hours were. Mix-up at check-in where they gave me a key to a room, but when I went upstairs and opened the door I found someone else's stuff in there! Was moved to another room, but no compensation besides apology was given (none expected, but I know people on this forum are always curious). Again, I was only gold so I don't know if plats get upgraded.

Westin Diplomat - Highly recommended. If upgrades were a problem, it must have been due to the conference, because I went with a group from work where 4 of us were plat and were all upgraded to fairly large suites (separate sitting room including dining area, large bedroom, very large bathroom with separate tub and shower - still only one showerhead though). Beds were Heavenly Beds. Platinum upgrade included access to lounge area with free breakfast (fruit, bagels and lox, pastries) that we ate every morning on a beautiful terrace overlooking the ocean. No one had a problem with us bringing in non-plat co-workers as guests, although it's possible they just assumed we were all plats because we came in together. Room service food was sub-par, even for room service. Gym open until 10 PM, lots of cardio equipment and weights, plus cardiotheater system. Not quite what you'd expect from a "spa", but suited my needs.

Hope this helps!

Westin FLL - Typical Westin room with Heavenly Bed, shower, etc. Decent gym, lots of cardio equipment though I forget what the hours were. Mix-up at check-in where they gave me a key to a room, but when I went upstairs and opened the door I found someone else's stuff in there! Was moved to another room, but no compensation besides apology was given (none expected, but I know people on this forum are always curious).

I've stayed there over 20 nights and had this and lots of other "mix-ups" occur regularly. I think the Sheraton at FLL airport down I-95 is a much better hotel just a short drive away with great staff who take care of PLTs.

Stayed at the Westin Diplomat with the wife and kids, on one of our family vacations (after so many biz trips alone) during Thanksgiving 2004.

Was recognized as a Plat, and pre-upgraded to a corner Club Level suite - very nice and roomy, with a great view of the Atlantic Ocean on one end and the waterway on the other. Fantastic bathroom with separate shower and marble throughout. Also lots and lots of closet space, and we used one entire closet to store our golf gear.

Beach is non-existent, but the pools were great, and I was more interested in the sea breeze than getting sand in my feet, so it was OK with us ;-)

Loved the Club Lounge, which offered cigars and pastries after 8:30PM, a nice touch. Plus superb free breakfast with great orange juice (we're in FLA after all), great smoked salmon, and fresh fruits.

Played golf at the Diplomat Country Club and enjoyed it a lot.

All in all, highly recommended. Will definitely be back.

Can anyone suggest any nearby lower priced alternatives to parking at the hotel?

Thanks

If you're really cheap - it's a 24 hour - just over the intracoastal bridge - 10 minute walk.

If you're really cheap - it's a 24 hour - just over the intracoastal bridge - 10 minute walk.

I frequently walk north from the Diplomat to the Hollywood boardwalk. A five minute walk north of the Diplomat there is a parking lot with meters. Local cabs hang out there (perhaps because there is a public toilet near the beach). I do not know whether overnight or extended parking is permitted in this lot. But it may be worth checking out.

The WalMart is an interesting suggestion. But I think it's longer than a ten minute walk away. Perhaps closer to twenty.

Word on the street has it that Starwood is attempting to acquire these properties and either renovate or re-build.

If the purchase isn't successful, I understand that Starwood is probably going to pull the Sheraton brand name.

With the Atlantic open and successful, St. Regis and W coming, I can see wanting to eliminate the association with these two eyesores.

The website lists different addresses
- 3555 South Ocean Drive Hollywood, Florida 33019
and
- 501 Diplomat Parkway Hallandale, Florida 33009

How far away is the Diplomat Country Club from the Westin Diplomat?

I read all those wonderful reviews about the Westin Diplomat. Does the Diplomat Country Club treat their Platinum guests similiarily well? What kind of room do you typically get there? I consider to stay in the Diplomat Country Club.

I would strongly urge you to stay at the Westin Diplomat which is a big, modern tower on the waterfront in Hollywood (midway between Miami and ft Lauderdale). It has no beach, but a nice pool and very, very nice treatment of Platinums. Other posters have suggested it ranks around the top in terms of Plat treatment. I received the best upgrade I've ever gotten from Starwood there, to an enormous high floor suite and it was over a pretty busy Pres Day weekend. Plus the club lounge is one of the better ones I've been to at a Starwood property, good breakfasts and a nice place to grab a drink in the evening. They will take care of you.

The Diplomat Country Club is a separate property, although it is only a short shuttle ride away. I was not impressed by the place, it doesnt seem "better" than the Westin and the fact that it is in the Luxury Collection made me expect it would be better. It was just average. We found a very cheap SPG 50 rate there, that was the only good thing, it was about $190 after the discount and the best available rate was around $290. The golf course here is pretty expensive for what you get. We played a public course up the road that was as good and much cheaper.

Again, my recommendation is to stay at the Westin Diplomat, not the Country Club.

If you don't care about an ocean view and want a really, really quiet stay, the Country Club can be recommended. But you have to entertain yourself. TV options are poor. The bar in the evening is empty. There is no fancy restaurant for a gourmet dinner. Etc. Etc.

Looking for recent experiences/opinions on the following properties:
Sheraton Suites Plantation
Sheraton Ft. Lauderdale Airport

We'll be spending two nights at The Atlantic :cool: and then the plan is to move to a Cat. 2 hotel for the night before our flight at FLL. It's bad enough we'll have to leave The Atlantic... don't want to rub salt in the wound by choosing the wrong property. I had an award reservation at the Sheraton Suites Cypress Creek Ft. Lauderdale, but after reading FT posts I cancelled it.

Our priorities are as follows: the number of points required for a stay, comfort of beds, sound proofing and toddler friendly. Please bear in mind we're only gold.

thanks,
kzybulew

been to both.

Needless to say The SS @ Plantation are all Suites, in that you have a bedroom that is separate from the living room , but is probably smaller than a Standard Suite in any reg Hotel. Very nice Hotel I have nothing Negative to say on the place. except its a drive from FFL.

If you have an early flight why not stay at the Sher @ FFL/ They do charge for parking but in as much as they have a Free Shuttle to FFl why not eat 1st then check-in and return the car so that you avoid the parking fee.

I dont think you will lose anything if you stayed in either.

ive spent numerous nights at SS @ Cypress Creek the lobby Atrium is awesome wish the beds were. Id go back if the rate was right but its my last choice but before the Y Trader/Clipper. The pool/hot tub were great as was the workout room, but the SS @ Plantation leaves it in the dust. I was able to get it for $69 and it was worth it, Doubt Id pay anything over $89. Theres also the Westin which is is at the same Exit, I had more problems with the Westin then the SS.

Looking for recent experiences/opinions on the following properties:
Sheraton Suites Plantation
Sheraton Ft. Lauderdale Airport

We'll be spending two nights at The Atlantic :cool: and then the plan is to move to a Cat. 2 hotel for the night before our flight at FLL. It's bad enough we'll have to leave The Atlantic... don't want to rub salt in the wound by choosing the wrong property. I had an award reservation at the Sheraton Suites Cypress Creek Ft. Lauderdale, but after reading FT posts I cancelled it.

Our priorities are as follows: the number of points required for a stay, comfort of beds, sound proofing and toddler friendly. Please bear in mind we're only gold.

thanks,
kzybulew

Recently stayed at the Sheraton FLL Airport as an award stay, was also a Gold at the time and was upgraded to club level and given 2 vouchers for supper. The Hotel is less then 2 min from all the car rental returns and less the 4 mins from all the terminals. I stayed there because I had an early flight out of FLL. The room was VERY comfy with the Sweet Sleeper Bed's, room was VERY clena and neat. Overall it was a nice warm stay.

Looking for recent experiences/opinions on the following properties:
Sheraton Suites Plantation
Sheraton Ft. Lauderdale Airport

We'll be spending two nights at The Atlantic :cool: and then the plan is to move to a Cat. 2 hotel for the night before our flight at FLL. It's bad enough we'll have to leave The Atlantic... don't want to rub salt in the wound by choosing the wrong property. I had an award reservation at the Sheraton Suites Cypress Creek Ft. Lauderdale, but after reading FT posts I cancelled it.

Our priorities are as follows: the number of points required for a stay, comfort of beds, sound proofing and toddler friendly. Please bear in mind we're only gold.

thanks,
kzybulew


Stayed at both the Fll airport Sheraton and Plantation Suites in the past 6 months.

Airport Sheraton- got a great upgrade to a 2 storey suite. Big Comfy. Shuttle from airport was a plus. Hotel is a little isolated with regards to walking to a restaurant or anything else. Only had breakfeast there and it was fine. Beds where sweet sleepers. quiet enough hotel, gets busier during cruise season.

Plantation suites-They call em suites, but they are small. got upgraded to a Jaquizzi suite, never used it. They have fridge and Microwave in the room and sweet sleeper beds. Unfortunitly we had a bad experience with the alarm going off at 2:00am and having to evacuate the hotel. The location for restaurants and shopping is decent, but its about a $16 cab ride from the airport.

I like the atmosphere better at the airport Sheraton, but if you have time to kill and no car the Plantation is the better choise. Both were quiet enough for kids although the pool at the airport is a better space than the one on the roof at plantation.

I just had a horrible experience at Sheraton Cypress Creek in FLL.
http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=468204

I just had a horrible experience at Sheraton Cypress Creek in FLL.
http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=468204

Yes. Your post is one of the ones that made me change our reservation.

Has anyone had a recent stay at either of these properties?

I just stayed at the Trader this past weekend. A year ago I stayed at the Clipper. Did you have a specific question? Personally, I think the Trader is more conveniently located to shopping/restaurants. It is probably a nicer hotel as well, but one has to take the walkway or walk across the street to get to the beach. The Clipper is right on the beach.

I cannot comment on the Clipper or Trader, but I stayed at the Atlantic this past Memorial Day weekend with my wife and 2 year old and we all had a terrific time. A beautiful property in a prime location and received a fantastic Platinum upgrade to a 1 bedroom suite. Drove past the Clipper and Trader on several occasions and both properties seem to be a bit "tired" from the outside.

I stayed at the Trader a few weekends ago. If you have a choice between just the two then the Trader is better. They are both tired properties but Trader is acceptable. Hope this helps. If you do have a choice try the Marriott Harbor Beach Resort, it is one of my favorite Marriotts in North America.

Any more opinions on these two properties? I'm mainly interested in quiet (a question that's been addressed) and the gym. No need for a beach.

Any more opinions on these two properties? I'm mainly interested in quiet (a question that's been addressed) and the gym. No need for a beach.

I agree with the previous comments. I believe you have reciprocal priviledges between properties. The country club is across the canal (not sure if it has a club lounge). The resort there is styled more like an Italian villa....2 stories high, red clay tiles...the rooms have dark hardwood flooring. There are nice views of the golf course and it is very quiet. The spa there is great too.

The Diplomat on the beach is nice...more W like modern. Personally, I like listening to the sound of the ocean at nite...and/or sitting on the balcony and looking out over the aquamarine water.

I believe both properties treat Platinum guests alike...with upgrades, etc.

Why don't you just split your reservation up between both properties...or I'm sure they would switch you from one resort to the other if you desired after arriving. Either way, you can't go wrong with either property!

I would strongly urge you to stay at the Westin Diplomat which is a big, modern tower on the waterfront in Hollywood (midway between Miami and ft Lauderdale). It has no beach,It didn't used to have much of a beach, but it does now. Laid out on the beach there just last month in fact...

Diplomat is a very big, very busy hotel. But they execute things well (no long waits for valet for instance) and they treat platinums well... I don't know of any other North American property with more suites or of a Westin with a better lounge.

If you don't care about an ocean view or having the truly impressive pools right outside your window, definitely stay at the Diplomat Coutry club. You get better, more personalized service and having the spa, gym and smaller, but sufficient pool at your doorstep is a big plus.
The main high rise hotel is really lovely and boasts amazing views and easy access to an amazing club lounge, but can be a little impersonal.

The website lists different addresses
- 3555 South Ocean Drive Hollywood, Florida 33019
and
- 501 Diplomat Parkway Hallandale, Florida 33009

How far away is the Diplomat Country Club from the Westin Diplomat?

I read all those wonderful reviews about the Westin Diplomat. Does the Diplomat Country Club treat their Platinum guests similiarily well? What kind of room do you typically get there? I consider to stay in the Diplomat Country Club.
Greetings

To answer some of your questions about the two properties
Distance less then 5 minutes. The traffic lights would be your biggest obstacles.
The Westin Diplomat and Spa is to my own personal liking. Very good guest rooms and excellent suites. All with superb city or ocean views. Thankfully this has become one of Starwoods most compliant properties worldwide in securing upgrades. Not only on day of arrival but frequently well in advance of arrival.
As Gleff mentioned earlier in his post one of the best Executive Club lounges in North America with stellar views all around. The hotel is big modern, spacious and popular. Sometimes crowded.


The Diplomat Country Club is more for those seeking a quiet more relaxed private Country Club setting. It is especially appropriate for golfers. The health club and the spa are better equipped at the Diplomat Country Club. But guests have use of both facilities.
It is fee free for Platinum’s .Not sure if that extends for Gold guests too.
In fact if nothing has changed there is a shuttle that whisks you between both properties throughout the day so one doesn’t have to walk or take their car.

Being I rarely lie out on the beach how big the actual beach is doesn’t effect my personal decision.
Had heard they were going to add more sand. It was very tight in the past.
Evidently that must have been addressed. You can’t go wrong with either.
It’s all personal taste. Have a great time whatever you finally decide :cool:

Cheers

We changed our mind from cold NY to the caribbean for NYE. We are spending Dec.31-Jan. 2 in Ft. Lauderdale befor boarding our cruise ship.

Which hotel do you reccomend? I thought my 8y old would enjoy the beach
at the Sheraton Yankee trader but the reviews don't seem very good. The
Westin bills itself as a "perfect for business hotel" is there a nice pool there
or anything around to do for two days?

Thanks for the advise

We changed our mind from cold NY to the caribbean for NYE. We are spending Dec.31-Jan. 2 in Ft. Lauderdale befor boarding our cruise ship.

Which hotel do you reccomend? I thought my 8y old would enjoy the beach
at the Sheraton Yankee trader but the reviews don't seem very good. The
Westin bills itself as a "perfect for business hotel" is there a nice pool there
or anything around to do for two days?

Thanks for the advise

I stayed at the Yankee Trader back in July. The hotel rooms are a bit dated but I found the location to be great. Minutes from beach place (restaurants/stores), about a 10-15 minute walk to a high end mall, and across the street from the beach (there's an overpass so you don't need to cross the busy road).

Hope this helps!
Joe

Does it have the good bed? It doesn't list the sweet sleeper on its
website?

The Westin has a pool, spa and a small gym (nice, mostly cardio).

As far as location goes, there is not a whole lot in the immediate neighborhood (save for a few restaurants), but it is very convenient to I-95 and reasonably close to the northern beaches.

Regards,
- RightD

I stayed at the Yankee Trader last fall and the rooms are just ok, but I couldn't complain for the price. I was upgraded to an ocean view which was pretty cool. The location is also pretty good - it's across the street from the beach and walking distance to restaurants and shopping.

Will be staying there over the w-end for the first time. Look forward to it! How's the parking options there?

Folks should know that these two Yankee Sheratons really date back to AT LEAST the 1960s. The infrastructure restaints will ALWAYS mean that these rooms are only okay. Bathrooms = tiny and oldish.

it will cost more but The Sheraton Bal Harbour is great in all ways Except that this is its last season. Food, shooping etc all within a 10 min walk if that.

theres always The Diplomat in Hollywood a short drive from FLL, or up the road from the Yankess is The Atlantic but thats $$$$

Will be staying there over the w-end for the first time. Look forward to it! How's the parking options there?

Parking at the Westin Diplomat was $13/night self-park and (I think) $18/night valet. Self park is across the street on the causeway side. Parking structure is 5 floors with average speed elevator service. It was a quick and easy walk across the bridge and was a minute or three less than waiting on the valet. No street parking. Nearest meters are approximately 0.2 miles.

I left my car with the Luxury Collection Diplomat Golf Club valet for 2 hours while my girlfriend and I used the spa. I told him I was staying at the Westin Diplomat and gave him my room number... wasn't charged an additional fee. I later saw they have a large parking lot behind the tennis courts with plenty of space but it wasn't easily visible the first time I went. Don't know if it's pay-for-use or complimentary overnight.

-- CaptainG

Thanks everyone, I think I'll keep my reservation at the Yankee Trader.
The websites showing $205 per night but just noticed cash and points are
avaliable for one night at least, the second night is Jan. 1 and the website
won't let me book 2006 cash and points so I guess I try and call them direct.

As long as the rooms are ok the location is more important as we won't have
a car.

Thanks for the information.

Actually just left the Atlantic 3 days ago. Was deathly quiet there (we were only people in the pool area on most occasions). Had the only room on the pool deck, which had its ups and downs.

Was OK with the hotel. Location is a bit "iffy", sat close to plenty of new construction (are Starwood trying to take over that strip of land, with the 2 Sheratons, the Atlantic, and a W AND St Regis both being built?!), but not much else. Ended up walking to the aforementioned Beach Place most of the time. Did visit both the Sheratons, and not impressed with either. Very 60's, as stated.

We changed our mind from cold NY to the caribbean for NYE. We are spending Dec.31-Jan. 2 in Ft. Lauderdale befor boarding our cruise ship.

Which hotel do you reccomend? I thought my 8y old would enjoy the beach
at the Sheraton Yankee trader but the reviews don't seem very good. The
Westin bills itself as a "perfect for business hotel" is there a nice pool there
or anything around to do for two days?

Thanks for the advise

I've stayed at both a few times this year, but I think your best bet is the Trader. Now I happen to like the Westin Fort Lauderdale; they consistantly upgraded me when I checked in, the rooms are nice and comfortable, but it's not a great family place. They do have a nice pool, but that's about it. The rest of the neighborhood kind of sucks.

The Trader on the other hand is kind of dated and cheesy and the rooms are a little smallish, but they do have the sweet sleeper. The bonus there is they have a sky walk across A1A that puts you right on the beach. There's not a ton to do, but far more than near the Westin.

Thanks again, made reservations at the trader, the cash&points offer was
no longer there so just booked with points. I also made NYE reservations
at Shulas on the beach. Our plane gets in at Ft Lauderdale at 6:45 and I
made the reservations for 9:00 pm hope that gives me enough time.

Wintermom

Thanks again, made reservations at the trader, the cash&points offer was
no longer there so just booked with points. I also made NYE reservations
at Shulas on the beach. Our plane gets in at Ft Lauderdale at 6:45 and I
made the reservations for 9:00 pm hope that gives me enough time.

Wintermom


You made the right choice. Hopefully you aren't planning on spending much time in the room anyway!

Thanks again, made reservations at the trader, the cash&points offer was
no longer there so just booked with points. I also made NYE reservations
at Shulas on the beach. Our plane gets in at Ft Lauderdale at 6:45 and I
made the reservations for 9:00 pm hope that gives me enough time.

Wintermom

the trader isn't a far drive from the airport, you should be able to make your reservation.

The walk to beach place is virtually the same distance from both hotels. I would recommend the Trader over the Clipper and the Atlantic over both of them. ;)

Influential: You can buy a room at the new W hotel for a cool million if interested :).

It didn't used to have much of a beach, but it does now. Laid out on the beach there just last month in fact...

Diplomat is a very big, very busy hotel. But they execute things well (no long waits for valet for instance) and they treat platinums well... I don't know of any other North American property with more suites or of a Westin with a better lounge.

I'm headed to the Diplomat Resort this weekend with my wife and 17 year old daughter and wanted to confirm that there is indeed a beach at this property. My daughter is looking forward to her first visit to a Florida beach and I don't want to disappoint her! ;)

thanks for any update that can be provided. We are hoping to get an upgrade to one of those corner suites I've heard so much about.

Yes there is a beach. You can see some hotel photos I took (including one that includes beach) here:
http://blogs.flyertalk.com//blogs/viewwing/archives/2005/09/the_westin_dipl.html

Awesome job Gleff very professional ^
How do we know for sure though that you didn't superimpose that beach so the hotel will upgrade you first on your next visit ;)

Yes there is a beach. You can see some hotel photos I took (including one that includes beach) here:
http://blogs.flyertalk.com//blogs/viewwing/archives/2005/09/the_westin_dipl.html

Thanks Gleff! Those pics look great. It's interesting to compare your picture of the beach with the Diplomat's similar angle photo on its own website. The surf comes right up to the pool deck! The website doesn't even mention the word "beach" as an amenity. Are the beach chairs I see in your picture private for the Diplomat's guests? I also see that there are pool cabanas available. Did you check those out?

Thanks again for the photos. I'll give an updated report when we return. BTW, my free nights were 10,000 points. No cash & points offer during this season.

Nice pictues Gleff. The beach was totally gone in the fall of 2004 and spring of 2005 (I stayed a few times, most recently May 05). They rebuilt it and it's incredible how deep the beach is. Even when it first opened, the beach was only half that wide.

Given the hurricanes that went through in October, I'd call up and make sure the beach is still there -- that's what took them away the first time.

Given the hurricanes that went through in October, I'd call up and make sure the beach is still there -- that's what took them away the first time.


The beach was there a few weeks ago and looked very good. The Diplomat's ability to (re?)create this beach is, to me, nothing short of amazing. The work did not come cheaply!

We just returned from the weekend at the Diplomat. I can affirm that this hotel provides one of the best SPG & Platinum experiences of any hotel at which I've stayed. For starters, I emailed Amy Travis, Director of Revenue Mgt. to see what my chances of upgrade to a suite would be during our stay. I thought this would be easy since it seemed that the hotel had plenty of rooms left. Amy emailed me back quickly, but noted that my upgrade was not assured since they had a large group coming in that needed alot of suites. Amy also copied Tatiana Franco, Reservations Mgr. on her email. After another day of correspondence Tatiana called me to say that we had been confirmed into a corner suite! (this was important since our 17 yr. old daughter was traveling with us).

When we arrived, evening was easy. Check-in was swift and we were shown to our 32nd floor suite. By then the full moon was rising over the Atlantic. These corner suites are one of the best rooms I have had as a Platinum. Very good size, contemporary yet comfortable. If I had one small issue it would be that the bathroom should have 2 sinks instead of one. We enjoyed a nice meal at the Cafe that night.

The next morning we got to the Exec. Club "continental breakfast" just before closing (10 a.m.). No eggs on the menu, but there was plenty of lox and bagels, fruit, cereal, etc. The setting (as others have said) is fabulous. 33rd. floor location with outside decks on which you have a choice of an ocean or Intercoastal view while you enjoy breakfast.

In short, this property rates a 4.5 of 5 in my book, as a large resort/convention property. Both my wife and daughter commented on how friendly and helpful every member of the staff was. It is clear that management knows how to motivate staff and keep quality people in key positions. When you experience how well a hotel this size can be run, it's tougher to understand why more of them can't attain this level of performance.

How do they treat us Gold scums? :) Is it worth spending extra to confirm club level rooms?

Thanks!

The beach was there a few weeks ago and looked very good. The Diplomat's ability to (re?)create this beach is, to me, nothing short of amazing. The work did not come cheaply!

Check:
http://www.video-monitoring.com/ocean_palms/coastal.htm

and
http://www.broward.org/beachrenourishment/welcome.htm

I can report that dining experiences at the Country Club are not country club standard. Service is indifferent, food not fresh. On the other hand, The Diplomat Hotel and it's numerous restaurants is top drawer.

Have been inside the Westin Diplomat a number of times and it looks like your standard, new Westin. The beach it sits on is part of a very long stretch of public beach that you can take a nice, long walk on, and there are some cute, old beachy restaurants on parts of it (not that I would recommend mosst of them).

I can report that dining experiences at the Country Club are not country club standard. Service is indifferent, food not fresh. On the other hand, The Diplomat Hotel and it's numerous restaurants is top drawer.

i had a different experience. i thought the food was fantastic at the country club. however, i didn't like that they gave me a hard time about a late checkout and only offered 30 minutes.

We find the food at the Country Club to be quite satisfactory. It's perhaps not gourmet food, and the menu is not huge. But it's very good. And it is reasonably priced. Perhaps this is because it really is a country club with local members. We have on several occasions gone from the Westin to the Country Club in order to get a good meal at a reasonable price. The Country Club is a low-key place. There's nothing pretentious about it.

i had a different experience. i thought the food was fantastic at the country club. however, i didn't like that they gave me a hard time about a late checkout and only offered 30 minutes.
While extending late checkout would be nice, Starwood's terms and conditions do exempt resort properties from this elite benefit unfortunately. :(

Only results here on FT are too dated to be of much help. I never thought I'd even consider staying at either of the less than glamorous Sheraton Yankee Hotels (Clipper and Trader) in FLL; however, we have a family cruise vacation planned for Oct 2006 and will be flying in the night before we sail.

That means we'd simply want an okay place to sleep that's convenient to the FLL Cruise Pier and also have a chance to enjoy a little bit of time on the Olas Altas the night of arrival and a little time walking the beach the next morning before heading for the ship.

As much as I'm not happy about it, it appears that these two Sheratons are by far the most convenient for my needs outlined above. I am aware that these are both very old hotels and are tired.

Nevertheless, not really wanting to travel much further than necessary for what will end up being about 12 to 14 hours on site, can anyone supply recent stay reports for either of these properties? Any PLAT experiences? (Breakfast? Club lounge? Standard upgrade info?)

Thanks in advance ....

Only results here on FT are too dated to be of much help. I never thought I'd even consider staying at either of the less than glamorous Sheraton Yankee Hotels (Clipper and Trader) in FLL; however, we have a family cruise vacation planned for Oct 2006 and will be flying in the night before we sail.

That means we'd simply want an okay place to sleep that's convenient to the FLL Cruise Pier and also have a chance to enjoy a little bit of time on the Olas Altas the night of arrival and a little time walking the beach the next morning before heading for the ship.

As much as I'm not happy about it, it appears that these two Sheratons are by far the most convenient for my needs outlined above. I am aware that these are both very old hotels and are tired.

Nevertheless, not really wanting to travel much further than necessary for what will end up being about 12 to 14 hours on site, can anyone supply recent stay reports for either of these properties? Any PLAT experiences? (Breakfast? Club lounge? Standard upgrade info?)

Thanks in advance ....


Stayed there twice last year, most recent in September for 8 nights, I have had hit or misses at this property, suite upgrades are great, but once you have stayed in one, a regular room is the total pits, they have been pretty good to me about upgrades, No free Bfast, No Club lounge, they are right on the beach though, and the Atlantic which I am dying to try is only a 10 minute walk down the street, might be worth the extra points to give it a try.

Any more questions, I would be glad to answer, been staying at this property on and off for about 6 years.

FV

Any recent stays, particularly at the Westin Fort Lauderdale?

Looking to book 5th night free using points in the Ft. Lauderdale area in February. Cypress Creek suite gets nasty reviews but Plantation suites a bit better. Is the Plantation the best value in the area or is the Westin that much better considering neither are near the beach?

Or do I splurge for the Diplomat, given the Bal Harbour will be closed by then.

It's a family vacation with two boys, 4 and 7, so a pool and beach would be really nice, of course, but I don't want to burn up all my points.

Any and all advice is much appreciated!!

Looking to book 5th night free using points in the Ft. Lauderdale area in February. Cypress Creek suite gets nasty reviews but Plantation suites a bit better. Is the Plantation the best value in the area or is the Westin that much better considering neither are near the beach?

Or do I splurge for the Diplomat, given the Bal Harbour will be closed by then.

It's a family vacation with two boys, 4 and 7, so a pool and beach would be really nice, of course, but I don't want to burn up all my points.

Any and all advice is much appreciated!!

I stayed at the Sheraton Yankee Trader for a long weekend in March - it was a decent property for 7,000 points a night. The hotel has two pools and is right across the A1A to the beach (they have a skywalk that goes over the road, which is nice).

The front desk staff were rude, but considering the rack rate was $300 I thought it was a good value for the points. Towards the end of Feb, beginning of March the hotel is full of spring break college kids, but there is a lot in the local area within walking distance (restaurants, bars, shopping etc).

There's also the Sheraton Yankee Clipper a mile or two south on A1A, also on the beach. Haven't stayed there, but looked to be of similar quality.

I'm down in Coral Springs all the time for work and have tried a bunch of hotels in the area. Yes, Plantation Suites is nicer than Cypress in my opinion although I haven't been to either in some time.

I've settled upon staying at the Westin Ft Lauderdale after flirting with some Marriotts. It's relatively convenient being right on 95 (as is Cypress - Plantation is off University just north of Broward if you know the area). The Westin is strictly a business hotel. The pool is alright, but it's not great. The rooms are fine and everything is clean. The Westin also still has some cosmetic scars from Wilma.

With that all being said, there's not much in the area of the Westin or the Cypress Suites (Plantation is next to a mall). Beach is a car trip no matter where you are out of the 3, but the Plantation is probably the furthest.

I'd go with either the Diplomat, Diplomat CC - love it, although not great for kids - or the Yankee Trader as another poster suggested. These hotels are more geared towards leisure and will help ensure your stay is that much better for your family.

Thanks for the replies, unfortunately most everything is booked when I'm going (around Super Bowl unfortunately). But the Trader is available for part of the time. After reading some review on Trip Advisor, and the comments here, I'm looking forward to the Trader, the kids'll love the beach.

Thanks!