Instead of a hotel, we opted for an Airbnb vacation to Fort Lauderdale when the Covid veil finally lifted for us. Our choice, Walrick of So Florida, was our very first Airbnb stay together. We didn't know what to expect.

We arrived early evening and found this gorgeous structure standing amidst the beautiful landscape surrounding it. The driveway was elegantly tiled and garden-style, with room enough for all guests. I enjoyed its traction, especially when parking my motorcycle.

The architecture is well thought out, and the interior reminds you of a desert spa but in a tropical jungle. The outside veranda is a perfect catch-up spot to plan the next day's activities, relax from a long day out by taking a dip in the pool at dusk, enjoy an afternoon refreshing drink while lying in the sun, or catching up on emails with morning coffee and making colleagues jealous on zoom.

Our host Walter is apparently a super host. Not sure what qualifies one as such, but if there isn't anything, then please accept my standard. Walter was very thoughtful as a host. He rules the kitchen with an iron magic wand (with tassels) when it's time for breakfast.

I will admit here that not only did I end up sticking to the same breakfast every day, but the tater tots are also, in my snobbish foodie opinion, the best I have ever tasted. They have officially eclipsed the tater tots at the Westin Atlanta, long since my world favorite. I can't wait until I can ask him again for my usual: smoked salmon benedict, tater tots, and clamato juice. The blueberry pancakes were also delicious.

The neighborhood is very nice, and people really take great care of their homes. Riding out every day through the neighborhood was equally fun to do, seeing the houses in their various light stages at different times of the day. There are many spots to hang out in the immediate area, like cozy restaurants and lively bars. Everything is pretty close, from croissants to margaritas, to the beach, to café cubanitos, to fresh mussels, to beach sandals, to a Covid vaccine.

Walter is definitely a super host. He entertained us with interesting stories about the neighborhood and his interesting experiences. Rick was also very gracious! We tried not to infringe on our hosts too much, but we weren't in Florida for anything specific, so talking with Walter was definitely a fun part of our day. Sorry, Walter, I know we almost talked you to death. But you, sir, are a mensch.

He even introduced me to a book about iguana cooking. I couldn't believe it! Initially, I was a bit horrified, but surprisingly, I quickly read through it in a couple of days. I was riveted. I learned more things about Florida and discovered an entire sub-culture of chicken-from-the-trees eaters. Walter, thank you for that. It meant nothing, but it meant everything. So there.

Our room was BR2. I, in fact, was glad we got that one because the overall color scheme appealed to me more. We got great sunshine in the mornings before we left out for the day. This room has a view of the driveway and the street, so we could do some people watching while brushing our teeth. Actually, it's the best time for it.

So all in all, I loved the driveway, the front door is awesome, the house is well themed out (I do prefer this type of atmosphere myself), the pool is cool and cute, breakfast was the best, and the back patio and garden are a veritable oasis! This was more than a stay; it was an experience thanks to our host.

Thanks for everything, Walter. Your friends and allies, Moe and Shelly. PS. The next time we slide up into town, I'm straight-up asking for the friends of ours discount.

Thanks, Walter!
Shelly &Moe