Snugly between the cool Atlantic and Worth Avenue's to-die-for boutiques is The Colony, an unpretentious yet elegant enclave in the heart of Palm Beach. Once a seasonal retreat for dignitaries such as the Duke and Duchess of Windsor and a vacation destination for A-list clientele such as Marjorie Merriwether Post, the former King Hussein of Jordan and George Hamilton, its 67 guest rooms, 13 suites, three penthouse suites and seven private two-bedroom villas (coveted by repeat anniversary guests) have been completely renovated and redecorated in British Colonial style. Earth-colored fabrics in muted greens and beiges, dark wood tones, marble bathrooms, 310-thread-count, feather-filled duvets and tropical plants provide all the comforts of home--with a tropical flavor.

You won't need a car to enjoy a day in the ocean or strolling through the Avenue's intimate vias--but car and bicycle rentals are on hand to explore the island's grandeur. In the rear courtyard, a heated pool-- in the shape of the sunshine state--is complete with bright, tropical-colored towels freshly set at each poolside lounge chair. Staff in Ralph Lauren attire serve Continental cuisine with hints of Indonesia and the Caribbean at Polo, where plentiful cocktails are served from a dark, polished-wood bar accented in brass, and a wall of doors opened for al fresco dining. There's New Faces Cabaret in the Royal Room bringing in a touch of New York City, Junkanoo "any-excuse-for-a-party" live reggae parties to put some groove in your sunset, a Champagne limo tour of the Island mansions, margaritas at the Bimini Bar and dancing at Polo Friday and Saturday nights to the beat of Joe Donato.

The Colony's Pavilion provides 3,200 square feet for executive gatherings or poolside Caribbean-style barbeques for up to 200 guests. Everything from full-service catering to audio/visual equipment can be arranged by the Colony's attentive staff.