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The Bal Harbour Experience

I'm back from my warm and sunny south Florida vacation, and I'm already planning my next trip back, because Bal Harbour is my happy place. Last year, I stayed at and reviewed the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour—and it was every bit as fabulous as you'd expect from a Ritz-Carlton stay. If you haven't been to Bal Harbour yet, here are four reasons why it should be on your travel bucket list.

Four Reasons To Fall In Love With Bal Harbour:

Bal Harbour ShopsBal Harbour Shops, named the world's most productive shopping centre, is paradise found for a shopaholic. Shopping in Bal Harbour is an experience like no other, and no matter what you're looking for, you'll find it. All the best designer stores can be found here: Balenciaga, Chanel, Dolce and Gabbana, Fendi, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Jimmy Choo, Michael Kors, Tiffany & Co., Valentino, Rag and Bone, Tory Burch, and many more. There's also Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus, on either end of the mall, to complete your shopping experience.


The service in all the stores I've shopped in is great, and when you're ready to rest your tired shopping feet, there are plenty of excellent restaurants to dine in, like...

Carpaccio: Carpaccio is the yummiest Italian restaurant. The food is incredible, and since we usually travel with our children, I'm always impressed with the friendly service and how quick the food is served. Going without kids? Then take your time, because there is no better place to people watch. One of the best things about dining in Carpaccio is the view of the parking lot—yes, the parking lot—because this parking lot is famous for spotting the most beautiful exotic cars, and the only time you'll see a row of Lambourghini's, a La Ferrari, and more.




Gee Beauty: Gee Beauty is a pretty little skincare studio in Bal Harbour Shops dedicated to offering clients the best of everything beauty. You can shop your favourite skin-care and make-up products (I love their Gee lipsticks, I just had to buy Micro Princess—a creamy lipstick in a neutral light pink that's perfect to wear every day!) and I enjoyed an eyebrow wax and a make-up application by co-founder Natalie Gee, who was so pleasant to work with. I love their philosophy of "results-driven treatments and effective products" to achieve optimal results. Gee Beauty is also in Toronto, too!



The St. Regis Bal Harbour: Right across the street from Bal Harbour Shops you'll find the luxurious St. Regis Bal Harbour. The St. Regis Bal Harbour was recently named the best hotel in Florida, and as soon as you enter, it's easy to see why. From the beautiful pool area and ocean views, to the stunning, spacious rooms, this five-star, AAA, five-diamond hotel is pure elegance. I love the services at the Remède Spa, too. 







Of course, the dining options are incredible, from J&G Grill to the brand new BH Burger Bar, which we experienced during our stay in Florida. The burgers? Amazing. (Choose from the BH Signature Grind Beef burger, or the Jackman Florida Wagyu Beef Burger—both equally amazing.) The sides that are delicious, and you can choose classic fries, truffle parmesan tater tots and zucchini fries. The wings are a great appetizer—you'll be hard pressed to find better wings anywhere else. The kids loved their classic floats and milkshakes, too. While the J&G Grill is a little fancy for the young ones (although my boys loved it last year!) the BH Burger Bar is the perfect family restaurant for those vacationing in south Florida.



Bal Harbour is truly paradise, found, for someone who loves to travel, loves Florida, and loves the finer things in life. From incredible dining options, to luxurious hotels and the best shopping, you'll never want to leave. And it's the perfect travel destination whether you're travelling with children, as a couple, or with a group of friends. It's got something for everyone.

Thank you for the wonderful experience, Bal Harbour... I can't wait to see you again soon.

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