Thirteen days in South Florida have come to an end.
Luckily we missed the frigid temperatures and a little snow while ensconced in Lauderdale By the Sea, one of many spots along the east coast of Florida catering to part-time residents, retirees and working citizens.
Apart from the pleasant weather, A1A appealed most to me. Hugging the coast as Florida’s man-made spine, this road is alternately beautiful and ugly. A few years ago, we drove south on A1A from Jacksonville, FL to South Florida. This time we drove north 50 miles from Lauderdale By the Sea.
We saw endless condominium buildings, snatches of lovely ocean water and huge houses that make your head turn. At some points we saw the intercostal waterway and yachts that use this maritime highway.
A1A gives everyone a chance to experience the east coast of Florida as an often impressed observer. While the vistas may not compare with California’s coastline, the viewscapes still are eye-catching.
We learned it does rain frequently in South Florida. Movies are a good tonic for a lack of sunshine.
“Unbroken,” based on Laura Hillenbrand’s book about extreme survival for an Army Air Corps bombardier in a shark-infested ocean after a crash and in a Japanese prison camp controlled by a psychotic warden, provided a tortuous escape from life in a coastal resort.
I highly recommend this riveting, often unpleasant and violent movie. World War II history continues to fascinate me. In the case of “Unbroken,” I marvel at the ability of some to withstand ceaseless deprivation and torture to live another day.
So, home welcomes us. While Route 50 cannot compare with A1A in its beauty and connection to warmth, sunshine and a relaxed lifestyle, it does lead to Talbot County.
And that is special too.
Stacey Radcliffe says
Well done Howard. A1A does indeed present the driver with a beautiful and surprising trip! However, nothing really compares to the beauty of the road home. Talbot County is an incredible place to live–full of life and happiness, not to mention great neighbors!
Howard Freedlander says
You are right, Stacey. Route 50 is a welcome site, particularly on the eastern side of the Bay Bridge. You relax a bit and feel better about your trip home. And, yes, it’s great having good neighbors, just across the alley.