In 1926, Addison Mizner said, “Exaggeration is unessential. The future of Boca Raton is far too opulent to require coloring.”
Little did he know how prophetic his statement would be 90 years later. This society architect envisioned that prominent leaders, artists and socialites would gather in this world-renowned resort. Dreams became reality at the Boca Raton Resort & Club.
Approaching the entrance to the resort’s grand property, which is lined by royal palms, a feeling of grandeur washes over visitors. Maintaining historic charm with contemporary amenities is not an easy task, but this Waldorf Astoria Resort does so with grace. It originally consisted of the “Cloister,” but now there is so much more—a yacht club and marina, the tower, bungalows and the Boca Beach Club with a total of 1,047 guestrooms. Situated on 356 acres, the resort includes an 18-hole championship golf course, 30 tennis courts, seven pools and multiple restaurants, plus a private beach.
Celebrating its 90th anniversary and the expenditure of $30 million, the historic Cloister building has undergone a massive renovation—more than $100,000 was spent per room. The renovation combines elegance, colonial charm and unique features. One of the true jewels of this resort is the award-winning Spa Palazzo, a 50,000-square-foot facility inspired by Spain’s legendary Alhambra Palace. It’s designed with palatial gardens, grand arches, carved stone, smooth marble, handcrafted tile, elaborate mosaics and pecky cypress woodwork.
In our world, overcome by tech madness and social media, personal service touches have suffered, but this is truly overcome by my favorite amenity. From arrival to departure, guests are welcomed by True Waldorf Service. Each guest is assigned a personal concierge who serves as the primary contact before, during and after the visit. It guarantees that every guest has his or her Mizner “dream come true.”
Where to Imbibe
Step up to the Monkey Bar, named in honor of Addison Mizner’s favorite pet. To celebrate the 90th anniversary, a limited-time cocktail menu will feature cocktails that emerged during the Prohibition era. Think bubbly, and order a Pink Palace. Named after the resort, this drink takes the cake with a dangerous mix of Belvedere vodka, Aperol, St. Germain and Veuve Clicquot. It also hearkens back to Prohibition times, when only the wealthiest enjoyed true Champagne. When a bottle of sparkling wine made it to a bar, it would often be mixed with spirits to “stretch” the experience.
Where to Relax
Enjoy the 90th anniversary spa special, which celebrates the history of ritual baths popular in the early 1920s, featuring a 50-minute traditional ritual bath and 25-minute massage ($90). The bath is a healing water therapy ritual in which guests unwind with a journey through various water treatments, including an aroma bath, Swiss shower, plunge pool and Jacuzzi.
Resort Special
The Legends of Boca Experience offers Boca’s best—a three-night stay featuring a private tennis lesson with Grand Slam championship tennis star, Jimmy Connors, private chauffeured airport transportation in a Maserati Quattroporte, massages and an exclusive Morimoto dinner prepared by chef Takao Soejima; BocaResort.com; 888.543.1277.
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