Written by: Debbie Martinez • August 14, 2015• Travel News

‘You’ Time at the Inn on 5th in Naples

Moms and dads, the school year is over and camp plans are in place so there is no better time than the present to take some “you” time. After a busy year devoted to kids, school and family why not take a weekend to relax and rejuvenate? If South Beach is not your scene then head over to Naples and check yourself into the Inn on 5th. That’s what I did.

Walking into their recently redesigned lobby I had the feeling of tranquility. The wrought iron sweeping staircase, the shabby chic chandeliers, polished marble floors and the flowing white drapes lining the second floor reminded me of being in a European villa.

I was escorted to my room, a deluxe king overlooking 5th Ave. Stepping out onto my full size balcony, complete with wicker furniture, I could take in all of 5th Ave with all of its charm.

I dropped my suitcase, changed into my bathing suit and headed to the front desk where they took me by golf cart to the beach. They also offer car service if that is your preferred mode of transportation. Now, here is where you as a couple have some options. Instead of the beach, dad could go play golf at one of the two courses the inn offers and the mom could head out shopping at all those fabulous boutiques on 5th. When each has had their own alone time, meet back at the spa for a couples massage before dinner.

Get that Zen feel at the spa with all the finest in natural products and unique treatments. Totally unwind and let your mind wander as you enter the bamboo beaded curtained room for your couples massage. The Feng Shui elements are sure to leave you completely relaxed, at which point make your way over to the pool. With the soothing feel and sound of the waterfall in the pool, it will be easy to make it your own sanctuary and take a much-deserved nap. I did.

The curtain of nighttime was being drawn and white lights in the trees on 5th avenue magically appeared. I pulled up one of my wicker chairs on the balcony and took it all in. Note to self; bring a bottle of champagne next time.

My dinner reservation at Avenue5 was at 9:00, so I had a few minutes to sit at the island bar and get a feel for what the bartender recommended on the menu. With drink in hand, I was seated at the best table in the house (in my humble opinion). It was a table right by the sliding glass doors, which were completely opened to the sidewalk with a red velvet rope separating me from the passersby. I felt like I was in my own little world. The restaurant has an old Hollywood feel and serves spectacular classic American cuisine. I couldn’t decide between the crab cake and the calamari, so I got both. Fabulous. My main course was Block Island swordfish with orzo and little neck clams. Equally as fabulous. Last but not least was the sampling of the cobbler. Decadent.

I fell into a deep sleep snuggled up in a fluffy comforter with the lights twinkling through the trees off of my balcony.

After a sumptuous brunch, I lounged by the pool with my book for the better part of the day. Sunday night I took up residence at the bar at Seasons 52 to hear local musician Gary Pickus play the piano and take requests. He was very engaging and entertaining and I was bummed when his time at the mic came to an end. I asked him to join me at the bar so I could find out what it is that he likes about the Naples crowd. “I like the fact that Naples audiences have a special appreciation for performers that play music that gives them ‘time machine moments’ to rekindle memories of days gone by.”

“Time machine moments”– I like that phrase and I would venture to say staying at the Inn on 5th will be one of those for me.

FYI, between July and October the inn is offering special rates and if you mention The Florida Villager when booking a 2 night stay, you will receive a $50 resort credit.

Debbie Martinez is a Miami Dade resident and Travel Editor for The Florida Villager. She can be reached at debbiemartinez1@mac.com.

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Last modified: August 14, 2015