Page 1. Florida Issue - Home Fabulous Florida Finds...for the Holidays or Any Day! Coral Gables, Florida For a romantic stay extraordinaire... BILTMORE CORAL GABLES - MIAMI The Biltmore is a National Historical Landmark, located in the residential enclave of Coral Gables, slightly west of Miami, Florida. It is a magnificent structure worthy of its status and impressive both inside and out. Filled with magnificent architectural features and arts and crafts, the hotel has a rich history, complete with folklore legends of the famous and infamous. Besides being a hotel, over the years The Biltmore was a hospital, a government center, a banquet and wedding facility, and then was closed for years. It is now owned by the City of Coral Gables and skillfully operated by The Leading Hotels of the World. The Biltmore was originally built by George Merrick in 1926. He envisioned his plush palace merely as a place for people to stay while they attended auctions for his land. At the time, none of the area was developed-but George thought it could be a resort surrounded by expensive homes on land that he owned. George was one smart fellow! But, you wonder, if it was built by George Merrick, why is it called the Biltmore? Merrick knew the "Biltmore" name had a reputation for elegance and luxury, so he asked his friend Biltmore if he could use the name. And what a place he built! It oozes quiet elegance and romance. Everywhere you look, everything you see is a beautiful work of art or intricate craft. It has three ornate ballrooms, each with its own architectural identity, and the largest hotel swimming pool in the continental United States. It was a grand sight as we sat at the pool bar, treated to the sounds of Reggae music by a local band. Guest amenities include a Donald Ross designed golf course, 10,000 square foot fitness center, 10 tennis courts, health spa, and of course, the seductively secret poolside cabana suites, with butler service. And, are they discreet! It also has a mystery suite, originally named for a famous Mafioso. Want to sightsee and don't feel like driving or walking? There's even a complimentary horse and carriage to take lovers around the area. Don't miss this! The Biltmore has several restaurants, including the Palm D'Or, the Cellar Door, the 1200 Courtyard Grill and the Cascade. Our remodeled suite was a cross between traditional and contemporary with the most comfortable bed, bedding and towels found anywhere. Light, bright, and extremely comfortable, it had double-sided TV screens between the bedroom and sitting room. The spacious bathroom was a welcome treat. The window from our front-facing room covered the brightly decorated hotel entry and offered charming views of old Coral Gables, with Christmas lights glittering under the twinkling sky. Our stay at the Biltmore was memorable for the beauty and elegance of its outstanding property, its truly romantic atmosphere, and the genuine friendliness of the staff. All of these give the Biltmore a special place in our hearts, and it's why so many guests want to return. We know we do...as soon as possible. BILTMORE CORAL GABLES - MIAMI A Special Christmas Romantic Attraction... CORAL GABLES CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH
The Coral Gables Congregational Church is non-denominational; and they happily welcome folks from any religion, ethnicity, age, or sexual orientation. CORAL GABLES CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH * * * Where to eat a casual breakfast? SERGIO'S FAMILY RESTAURANT
Appearing something like a Cuban version of Denny's from the outside, it was much different when we made it in the door. Although the line was long, the wait was short, since the turnover was quick. Inside, Sergio's was a frenzy of activity between take-out and eat-in, and large tables filled with families. The menu is in Spanish (English translation available) and offers all the Cuban food specialties you could desire. We quickly changed our minds about ordering breakfast since their menu had so many other interesting items. Marilyn likes plantains and Sergio's has 5 different versions, so she had to try them. She ordered chicken fajitas with rice, beans and mouras (fried plantains). Different from the Mexican version we are familiar with, the fajitas were tasty and plentiful...and she loved the plantains. Likewise, Dennis abandoned his white bread French toast idea for something a little different, Pan con Bistec. This is a Cuban steak sandwich composed of cooked thin-sliced meat on a long roll with lettuce, tomato, and grilled onions on the bottom and French fried potato sticks on the top. Whoa!! Sergio unknowingly delivered his Christmas present to Dennis. What a delicious surprise! So don't fret if you're stuck without a place to eat in the Coral Gables/Miami area on a holiday. Just drive until you find Sergio's. They have 2 locations, modest prices and long hours. And excellent Cuban food! SERGIO'S FAMILY RESTAURANT |
The famous Biltmore Bar frequently hosts celebrities and stars of the past and present. Each of these places is distinctive and exceptional-and makes it easy for you to enjoy romantic wining and dining, along with the spirit of the holidays, without ever having to leave the hotel. 
Right across from the Biltmore Hotel is the Coral Gables Congregational Church. As we returned to the hotel from South Beach on Christmas Eve, the entire area was dark, secluded and quiet, until we noticed a light at the church. A glow seemed to emanate from the ground. We soon realized that there were lit candles lining the pavement. We parked the car and followed the candles to the door of the Church. Entering, we saw it was packed with people at 11 p.m. We had arrived just in time for their Christmas Eve Services! 
There was a concert first-with a variety of singers, including a full choir, classical soloists, and an R & B duo. Next was a heartfelt service, with more music that went on until past midnight. Then everyone wished each other Merry Christmas and filed outside. We were touched by the love of the people all around us and will always remember this incredible Christmas night. If you're in the area, put it on your Christmas list! 
Where do you go for breakfast on Christmas Day? Well, if you are in Coral Gables, you don't have much choice-everything is closed. Driving along the deserted Coral Way in desperate need of calories, we finally arrived at a food oasis with a packed parking lot and a line out the door. We had found sustenance!
