Topics in Family Medicine, Neurology, and Neurological Critical Care

Ft. Lauderdale, Florida - Often called the 'Venice of America,' Fort Lauderdale offers a surprisingly sophisticated and relaxed alternative to its more frenetic neighbors. The city's identity is defined by the 165 miles of inland waterways that weave through it, and the best way to appreciate this is from the water itself. We highly recommend hopping on the Water Taxi for a leisurely tour; it’s not just transportation, but an experience, offering front-row views of stunning mansions, mega-yachts, and lush tropical landscaping. For a taste of the city's vibrant heart, head to Las Olas Boulevard. This is the city's elegant main artery, lined with independent boutiques, intriguing art galleries, and a fantastic selection of restaurants, from casual sidewalk cafes to upscale dining rooms perfect for a memorable meal. It’s an ideal place for a sophisticated stroll and some people-watching. Of course, the beach is a major draw. The beautifully redesigned Fort Lauderdale Beach offers wide stretches of clean sand, a palm-fringed promenade, and a more laid-back atmosphere than you might expect. If you have a bit more time and an adventurous spirit, the Florida Everglades are just a short drive away. An airboat tour through this unique 'River of Grass' is an unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into a wild ecosystem teeming with alligators, wading birds, and other wildlife. It’s an accessible yet authentic taste of natural Florida that provides a perfect contrast to the city's polished charm.

At Sea - Cruising

Philipsburg, St. Maarten - St. Maarten offers a unique geopolitical curiosity: a 37-square-mile island divided between the Netherlands and France. While the cruise pier in Philipsburg (Dutch side) is often crowded with multiple mega-ships, the island’s dual personality allows for a highly customizable day if you plan strategically. Philipsburg itself is the commercial engine. Front Street is lined with duty-free jewelry and electronics stores; while convenient for shoppers, it can feel somewhat manufactured. For a more relaxed immediate option, the boardwalk along Great Bay offers decent beach bars and a view of the ships, though the water clarity here lags behind the rest of the island. To experience the island's true charm, we recommend crossing the border to the French side. The atmosphere shifts perceptibly in Marigot, with its open-air markets and colonial architecture, though it has been slower to recover from past hurricanes than the Dutch side. For the sophisticated traveler, the village of Grand Case is the highlight. Known as the culinary capital of the Caribbean, it features exceptional French-Creole cuisine in open-air "lolos" (local barbecue stands) and high-end bistros alike. Regarding beaches, you have distinct choices. Maho Beach offers the famous, adrenaline-fueled spectacle of jumbo jets landing just overhead—it is noisy, crowded, and absolutely unique. For a classic European beach day, head to Orient Bay on the French side for white sand and upscale beach clubs. A critical note on logistics: Traffic on St. Maarten can be notoriously heavy, particularly in the late afternoon. If venturing to the French side, allow ample buffer time for the return trip to Philipsburg.

San Juan, Puerto Rico - San Juan offers one of the most sophisticated and accessible experiences in the Caribbean. Unlike ports requiring long transfers to see anything of value, Old San Juan greets you immediately upon disembarkation. This 500-year-old walled city is a UNESCO World Heritage site best explored independently on foot, allowing you to bypass crowded bus tours and move at your own pace. Your priority should be the two massive citadels guarding the coast. We recommend starting at Castillo San Cristóbal, the largest Spanish fortification in the New World, before walking the scenic coastal trail to the iconic Castillo San Felipe del Morro. The sheer scale of these defenses is humbling, and the expansive green lawn leading to El Morro—often dotted with kites—provides a dramatic contrast to the deep blue Atlantic. Between the forts lies a grid of blue cobblestone streets (adoquines) lined with vibrant colonial architecture. The joy here is aimless wandering, though the heat can be intense; stay hydrated and wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the hills. For a cultural pause, visit the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista, the resting place of Ponce de León. Culinary exploration is essential. Skip the generic tourist traps near the pier and head deeper into the city. Seek out mofongo (garlicky mashed plantains) at a local staple like El Jibarito or Café Puerto Rico. While the nearby beaches of Condado are beautiful, they require a taxi and contend with traffic. Unless you have visited before, we advise dedicating your day entirely to the history and atmosphere within the city walls, finishing perhaps with a Piña Colada at Barrachina, right in the heart of the old town.

Labadee, Haiti - Labadee is a private coastal peninsula offering a meticulously managed day of sun and adventure. The setting is undeniably beautiful, with lush, green hillsides meeting turquoise water. You can choose your pace: relax on the sands of Columbus Cove, or seek out the thrills of Adrenaline Beach. The main attractions are purpose-built, including the Dragon’s Breath Zipline, which offers spectacular views as you soar over the bay, and a unique alpine coaster that winds through the tropical vegetation. While there are artisan markets with local crafts, it's important to set expectations: this is a self-contained resort experience. It provides a secure and scenic beach day but does not offer access to or an authentic cultural immersion into the rest of Haiti.