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Consider well Naples' reputation as Southwest Florida's cultural epicenter.
Monied Neapolitans support virtually every art form with a flourish. Educated
elegance is the way of life here. From felicitous boulevard medians to
high-style metropolitan symphonies, you know you've arrived. Celebrated
performers, award-winning Broadway shows, children's theatre, renown American
dance troupes and international ballet companies are among those who seek Naples
as a winter destination. CEOs, Hollywood stars, name artists and famous authors
accent this intriguing milieux, owning second and third homes here. Behind the
scenes, Naples hums with a sense of community pride. People feel blessed to be
here. They return the favor by donating thousands of hours in community
programs. The Philharmonic Center for the Arts is one of their creations of the
past decade. Classy revitalized downtown shopping districts draw thousands of
visitors to upscale restaurants, world-class galleries and boutiques. Charity
galas portend good news for multiple causes, including an all-purpose community
shelter. Neapolitans measure value in terms of quality of life. National
speakers share their insights in public forums. Libraries host local experts in
the arts and sciences. Special events crowd calendars in glossy regional
lifestyle magazines.  The Naples Daily News routinely wins state and national
recognition for its reporting. Every amenity imaginable reigns supreme. Did we
mention that dozens of private, public and community golf courses in and around
Naples make Southwest Florida the "Golf Capital of the World"? Ahhh, then
there's the homes. Stylish seaside cottages, mega-million dollar mansions and
everything in-between. Architecture treats the eye. Retirees and entrepreneurs
discovered Naples in the 1950s, but building took off in the 1960s. All of it is
fresh and well-cared for. To the west, working families enjoy the privileges and
affordable, homey style of Golden Gate Estates. How can Neapolitans be so
fortunate? We have the azure waters and sugary beaches of the Gulf of Mexico on
one side. And the emerald wilderness of the vast Everglades on the other. Half a
dozen amazing state parks and preserves border the 50-square-mile Everglades
National Park, the renown River of Grass that descends from Lake Okeechobee
south to our land of 10,000 Islands. We have it all. Won't you come join us?Photo by Pat Shapiro/Flying Colors of Naples
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