Principales destinos: Ft. Lauderdale, FL

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Greater Fort Lauderdale shopping excursions range from designer outlet malls to balmy open-air markets. Shopoholics can scavenge designer finds at Sawgrass Mills and browse the tony shops of Las Olas Boulevard.

Featuring the only David Yurman outlet in the nation, The Colonnade Outlets at Sawgrass Mills is home to many recognizable designer names. Neiman Marcus Last Call shares space with Miss Sixty, Burberry and Coach. The open-air promenade is located adjacent to the ever-popular Sawgrass Mills. For more information, call 954-846-2300. 1800 Sawgrass Mills Circle, Sunrise.

Just two blocks north of Las Olas Boulevard, The Gallery at BeachPlace blends casual dining with outdoor shopping and nightlife. The area stretches along the beach for a lovely atmosphere. For more information, call 954-764-3460. 17 S. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., Fort Lauderdale.

Anchored by Lord & Taylor and Macy’s, The Fashion Mall at Plantation offers indoor shopping and a varied food court. The mall is located right across from the Broward Mall for one-stop shopping. For more information, call 954-370-1884. 321 N. University Drive, Plantation.

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The Riverwalk Arts and Entertainment district in downtown Fort Lauderdale is home to various museums and exhibitions aimed at family fun and excitement.

The Museum of Discovery and Science offers hundreds of interactive exhibits geared toward Florida wildlife. A blockbuster IMAX theater adds extra excitement. For more information, call 954-467-6637. 401 S.W. Second Street, Fort Lauderdale.

The Museum of Art-Fort Lauderdale provides complimentary admission the first Sunday of each month. The museum offers an ever-changing menu of exhibitions along with art classes, yoga lessons and jazz concerts. For more information on current exhibits, call 954-525-5500. 1 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale.

Learn about Fort Lauderdale’s rich and colorful past at the Old Fort Lauderdale Village and Museum. The complex includes the New River Inn, the Philemon Bryan House and a replica of an 1899 schoolhouse. For more information, call 954-463-4431. 219 S.W. Second Ave., Fort Lauderdale.

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Sunny weather and easy accessibility make Fort Lauderdale a destination for sports enthusiasts. Water sports take the lead in fun activities for the whole family.

Home of the Florida Panthers hockey team and large concert and trade show venue, the BankAtlantic Center is located in the Sunrise area of Fort Lauderdale. For tickets and more information, call 954-835-7000.

Popular Fort Lauderdale golf courses include the Inverrary Country Club in Lauderhill and the Jacaranda Golf Club in Plantation. The city offers courses designed by famed luminaries such as Robert Trent Jones and Joe Lee.

Greater Fort Lauderdale was named to the Top 10 World's Best Wreck Diving, Marine Life and Value Dive Destinations by the readers of a popular diving magazine. Find an excellent selection of colorful marine life while diving at Barracuda Reef, Hog Heaven and the Wreck of the Jim Atria.

The Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Complex is home to the Fort Lauderdale Aquatics, the Jack Nelson Swim School, the Fort Lauderdale Dive Team and the International Swimming Hall of Fame. For more information, call 954-828-4580. 501 Seabreeze Blvd., Fort Lauderdale.

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Known as Fort Lauderdale Resort Fashion Week, FTL MODA showcases international couture at various hotels and stores September 18-21, 2008. Opening ceremonies take place at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, and proceeds benefit local charities. For more information, call 954-765-5900; located at 1950 Eisenhower Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Over 60 feature films are highlighted at the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival this October 12-November 9, 2008. Filmmakers, celebrities and guests mingle during the screenings, seminars and special events. Held at various venues throughout the city.

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Led by culinary mastermind Mark Militello, Mark’s Las Olas offers signature dishes made with conch, mouthwatering gourmet pizzas and delicious desserts. Unexpected ingredients make this restaurant worth the trip. For reservations, call 954-463-1000. 1032 Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale.

A favorite of locals, Deli Den serves delicious kosher specialties including cheese blintzes, matzo balls and inexpensive bagel sandwiches. For more information, call 954-961-4070. 2889 Stirling Road, Hollywood.

The upscale Fish offers a traditional seafood menu with eclectic touches. For reservations, call 954-527-5433. 1850 SE 17th Street, Causeway, Fort Lauderdale.

Experience oceanfront dining at 3030 Ocean Restaurant, where a delectable raw bar attracts locals and tourists alike. Live jazz adds to the already lovely ambience. For reservations, call 954-765-3030. 3030 Holiday Drive, Fort Lauderdale.