How to feel like you have been gone for a week after only 36 hours away from home?  This might sound impossible but we think we have the answer.  Here's what we did for two days and one night over Memorial Day weekend with another couple.

We departed Palm Beach Gardens around 9:30 and headed North on I-95 to our first stop, McKee Botanical Gardens in Vero.  The gardens are known for its 18-acre subtropical jungle hammock, filled with plants appropriate for horticultural growing in this area.  This dense and diverse collection also features several restored architectural treasures such as the Spanish Kitchen and Hall of Giants. We loved it all and spent a few peaceful hours just absorbing the beauty around us especially the incredible water gardens and stunning water lilies. 

By this time the troops were ravenous so we asked the kindly garden shop assistant to recommend a casual but excellent spot in town.  The Lemon Tree exceeded our expectations and we were lucky enough to lunch on a Friday when lobster salad is the special of the day.  We all ordered the lobster salad plate which came complete with assorted veggies, hard boiled egg and corn bread.  The loveliest touch was the homemade sorbet (lemon or raspberry) offered gratis for desert.   It was certainly well located too, just across the street from our hotel.

We booked a night at the Costa d'Este in the heart of Vero.  This luxury beachfront resort owned by Gloria and Emilio Estefan offers guests state-of-the-art amenities and exceptional service in an unforgettable location.  Enjoy the sunshine by the outdoor pool, walk along the hotel's pristine beaches, or rent a water toy or snorkel gear.  We were able to book at a special Florida resident rate that included our breakfast the following morning.  And our oceanfront room was fabulous, extremely well outfitted and modern!   

Off to the beach and some mighty fine cocktails served cheerfully directly to our lounge chairs and umbrella.  We relaxed so much that we decided to dine at the Wave restaurant right in the hotel.  With trendy decor, innovative cuisine,  The Wave Kitchen & Bar states its commitment to local partners on its menus: "Our aim is to use local ingredients with respect to seasonal harvests as the produce achieves its full culmination of flavors. We believe in products that are natural and pesticide-free from local farms."  The drinks and wine list were special too.