Virgin Voyages Pays It Forward

The holiday season became much merrier for employees of Baptist Health South Florida thanks to a promise on which Virgin Voyages is making good.

Earlier in the year, Virgin Group founder Richard Branson committed to offer 2,021 complimentary cabins on the new Scarlet Lady to philanthropists and deserving individuals in need. On Giving Tuesday, in appreciation to those on the front lines throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Virgin rewarded 250 health care workers at Baptist with a four- or five-night cruise aboard the Scarlet Lady.

The three cruise options, sailing between Dec. 15-29 to either Puerto Plata or Nassau (with a stop at Virgin Voyages’ beach club in Bimini), include two complimentary cabins and up to three additional travelers.

“The past two years have tested our community, and we wanted to find a small way to express our deepest gratitude to all of the health care professionals who went above and beyond to keep us safe,” said Tom McAlpin, president and CEO of Virgin Voyages. “We hope a voyage on our beautiful Scarlet Lady allows the Baptist team to enjoy some much-needed R&R this season.”

“Throughout this pandemic, our caregivers have embodied the true meaning of sacrifice and heroism, always putting themselves before others,” said Bo Boulenger, president and chief operating officer of Baptist Health South Florida. “We are thrilled with this opportunity to show them our community’s heartfelt appreciation for their selflessness and dedication with this fantastic trip, thanks to our friends at Virgin Voyages.”

You May Also Like

Leave a Reply

Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber to Spotlight Healthcare Leadership at 2026 Excellence in Healthcare Awards

As one of South Florida’s most influential business organizations, the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce continues to play a leading role in bringing together the region’s healthcare and business communities. This commitment will be on full display at the 2026 Excellence in Healthcare Awards, presented by Baptist Health South Florida, on September 24 at

Read More
Save the date flyer for Excellence in Healthcare Awards hosted by Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce. Event details, date, time, location, and contact info displayed, with a caduceus symbol in the center. Lifestyle
Caviar, Cocktails and a Secret Speakeasy 

Downtown Hollywood has a new spot for fried chicken, caviar, and a little late-night intrigue.  Common Room, from BOL Hospitality Group, is now open, serving American comfort food with some decidedly luxe upgrades.  Executive chef Tanya Evans, whose résumé includes Barton G and Major Food Group, has created a menu that ranges from fried chicken

Read More
A cheeseburger with a knife in the bun, French fries in a metal cup, a small dish of ketchup, and a glass of expertly mixed cocktail on a wooden table—perfect for savoring in a cozy speakeasy atmosphere. Lifestyle
A Restaurateur Finds Healing Through Food, Movement, and Community 

For Estelle Bellegy, wellness has increasingly become about nourishing the body in different ways — first through food, then through movement and, more recently, through the experience of confronting her own health.  Bellegy and business partner Benjamin Amsallem built Café Bastille around the idea that food, hospitality and community could be part of an everyday ritual. The pair, who previously

Read More
A person wearing loose blue pants, a white shirt, and a headscarf stands barefoot on a wooden floor in a softly lit room with shelves and decorative items on the wall, evoking a sense of movement and quiet connection within the community. Lifestyle
Dunn’s Run Marks 30 Years of Racing for a Cause in Deerfield Beach

A South Florida running tradition will celebrate a major milestone when the 30th Annual Dunn’s Run returns to Deerfield Beach on Sunday, Jan. 10, 2027. The annual event, benefiting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County, will bring runners, walkers, families and teams together along A1A for a morning of fitness and fundraising near

Read More
A collage of runners celebrating at Dunn’s Run, racing for a cause as they pose with medals, friends, and mascots on a sunny day near palm trees and the Deerfield Beach shoreline. Lifestyle
Other Posts
Tower Club Fort Lauderdale Presents “Midnight in the Sanctuary” Benefiting PAWS

Tower Club Fort Lauderdale presents Midnight in the Sanctuary: A PAWSh Society Affair on Friday, September 25, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. Set 28 stories above downtown Fort Lauderdale, the immersive evening will bring together South Florida’s business, civic, and philanthropic communities in support of PAWS—Pets Are Worth Saving, an Auxiliary of the Humane Society of

Read More
A jungle scene at night with an ancient stone temple, surrounded by lush plants, a dog and a cat. Text reads: “Midnight in the Sanctuary” alongside the PAWS and Tower Club Fort Lauderdale logos. Lifestyle
Ave Maria Offers An Affordable Housing Alternative for South Florida Families

As rising housing costs continue to squeeze South Florida buyers, some are looking across the state for a more affordable path to homeownership. Ave Maria, a master-planned community in Collier County, says more than 40% of its homebuyers come from Florida’s east coast, attracted by homes starting in the low $200,000s and a small-town lifestyle.

Read More
A smiling family of four, two adults and two young girls in matching pink outfits and heart sunglasses, stands outdoors on a sunny day near Ave Maria. Lifestyle
History Fort Lauderdale Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month

Viva Fort Lauderdale Showcases South Florida Artists History Fort Lauderdale will celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with the fifth anniversary of “Viva Fort Lauderdale: Celebrating Hispanic Art & Culture,” a free exhibition showcasing the work of South Florida artists. The exhibit runs Sept. 17 through Oct. 25 at the New River Inn, 231 SW Second Ave.,

Read More
A woman in a colorful dress poses, smiling, next to a vibrant mural of Frida Kahlo with parrots on her shoulders in Fort Lauderdale. Both wear bold patterns and jewelry, celebrating the artistry and spirit of Hispanic Heritage Month. The background features bright, intricate designs that pay homage to history and cultural richness. Lifestyle
Vote For Your Favorite American Humane Society Hero Dog

Five Florida dogs are among 25 semifinalists competing for national recognition in the American Humane Society’s 16th annual Hero Dog Awards. The nationwide competition recognizes dogs whose service, courage and companionship have made an extraordinary impact. This year’s semifinalists compete in five categories: law enforcement and first-responder dogs, service and guide/hearing dogs, therapy dogs, military

Read More
A golden Labrador lies on the floor with a plush snowman toy, a gift box, and a card featuring a dog illustration beside it—evoking the spirit of an American Humane Society Hero Dog. A potted plant is in the background. Lifestyle