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Loews Don CeSar Hotel

Exterior

At a Glance

    Pros

  • romantic destination
  • great beach
  • tasty dining options

    Cons

  • small rooms, can be quite pricey
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Loews Don CeSar Hotel Review

Today the "Pink Palace," as it's called thanks to its paint job, is a storied resort and gulf-coast architectural landmark, with exterior and public areas oozing turn-of-the-20th-century elegance. Ditto for the rooms. The staff are known for friendly old-world service. The Don once was a favorite of F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald, Babe Ruth, and Clarence Darrow. The popular restaurant, Maritana Grille, specializes in Florida seafood and is lined with huge fish tanks. Ghost hunters may be interested in knowing that Tomas Rowe, who built this Roaring Twenties-era hotel, is said to have come back after death to meet his beloved; some guests and staff swear they see the couple occasionally having a rendezvous in the garden (more romantic than spooky); others say Rowe appears in corridors and rooms.

    Hotel Details

  • 277 rooms, 40 suites, 70 condos.
  • Rate includes no meals.
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Fodorite Reviews

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  • Room  
    Décor  
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    Value  

    Pinking it was Perfect

    We just returned from our visit during Thanksgiving week and are planning to return next year as well. We had read some negative comments about the small rooms, but they were so well appointed and decorated so beautifully, that we didn't find the room lacking in any way. The staff was always friendly, always helpful, always attentive, and seemed genuinely happy to be there. The pool and beach were equally beautiful and clean and fully staffed. The Maritana Grille was absolutely delicious and the waitstaff and chef were very amenable with my many food allergies.

    by robinccaldwell, 11/27/07
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    $$$$ But worth it !!

    I have visited the Don CeSar on a yearly bases for the past 7 yrs. The setting is beatiful, as is the resort. People complain of the High cost, but if money is an issue, they may want to go to a hotel within their means. The staff is polite, very willing to help out with any problem. I Say 5 stars, cant wait for there NEW SPA TO OPEN IN THE SPRING, 2008.

    by petite47, 9/10/07

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