Ft. Lauderdale or Hollywood (Fort Lauderdale, Venice: rental car, rental, hotel)

[TK68]

I am coming for a two and a half day quick getaway from Baltimore next week. I have been to Ft. Lauderdale but it was years ago and also a quick trip.

I am 40, but bringing my 70 year old mother, so I am trying to find a location that both will enjoy, but economically as well. The rates for places to stay all seem to be in $80-100 range for a 3 star hotel/motel.

Given the time restraint, I am thinking no rental car, that we can walk or use the water taxi in Ft. Lauderdale or the trolley in Hollywood.

Both areas seem appealing for different reasons - canal system in Ft. Lauderdale would be awesome photography and they have some 2for1 deals on river cruises, etc. I also hear Las Olas Blvd is great, although I have no money to shop this trip.

Hollywood seems neat with the broadwalk - is this area less expensive or are they comparable.

Both look to have nice beaches, although since Mom can't swim, we probably won't spend as much time there as I would if traveling with a friend.

Is there transportation other than cabs that can run from Hollywood to Ft. Lauderdale to see both???

Any feedback and suggestions on areas and things to do would be great!

Thank you!!!

[fauve]

Hollywood is definitely less expensive. It has some quirky characters - those people who came here for vacation and stayed, have been there 30 years and have been in the sun way too long and those that go to the bars everyday. Kind of a Venice Beach of the east. Fort Lauderdale is definitely more upscale and adult. It will be more a matter of what suits your personalities. I personally like Hollywood because I find the barfly, low-life element entertaining Also you will hear Hollywood is more dangerous. I guess it kind of goes with the territory. I do believe Hollywood will be on a steady track up once the economy improves and before long the losers will be priced out. That will be a sad day!

[TK68]

Thank you Fauve!!

[Nolefan34]

TK>

You can visit both easily by taking a cab. A cab ride from Las Olas to East Hollywood or Hollywood Beach would run about 40 bucks each direction I think.