As I mentioned, I’ve had it with doctors, procedures, tests etc. and I felt the need to get away from all of it for a period of time. It’s not like I’m going to be a life long patient for several physicians. It’s a strange trip hop scotching from one BandB to another. I just decided to wander a while.
I got a late start, on purpose, because it was only a 3 1/2 hour drive to my first BandB/Inn, the Black Dolphin. I finally got everything packed into the Jeep and left the house around 11 am. It was kind of nice to not be in a hurry and worry about traffic on I-95. The drivers weren’t too crazy and not too angry at me going the speed limit.
One thing I noticed on the way to New Smyrna Beach was the number of Sabal palms along I-95 and how many of them were in bloom. I should have stopped and taken a photo because it was really an amazing sight.
I pulled into the circular drive of the Black Dolphin just before 3 pm and met Taylor who was valet parking a car. He said he’d meet me at the front desk to check in.
Taylor provided a short tour of the facility and the first come, first serve parking and then my room.
He asked if I needed any help with anything and I said yes, my suitcase. I pulled it out for him and started to take my coolers and satchel up and promptly face planted on the steps to my room (I’m on the second floor). Yes, I irritated my ankle a little with the face plant.
The room is very nice.
I even have a Juliette balcony on the north side but I don’t think I’ll spend much time out there. It didn’t seem too sturdy.
The lobby and the kitchen are together. Upon checking in, you are asked what time you want breakfast and then what you want. I had three options: eggs, bacon, toast; waffle with fruit, and granola and fruit. I chose the waffle. Their menu looked pretty gourmet.
The Black Dolphin is on the Indian River. There’s a nice view from the front balcony of the hotel (a lot more substantial than mine).
The host who greeted me is named Taylor which is my middle name. It seems there is another guest whose middle name is also Taylor.
Anyway, Taylor recommended some restaurants close by so I’ll probably walk down that way a little later and get some dinner. Lunch was apples, turnips, carrots, and Snickers minis.
Taylor suggests staying off the road to the beach until tomorrow. As I was driving in, they had signs telling everyone the beach parking was full. Monday should be better because everyone partying for the 4th will be gone.
Stay tuned!