Dorothea Hunter Sönne

Jan 22, 2025 | gulfshorelife.com | Dorothea Hunter Sönne

Jan 21, 2025 | gulfshorelife.com | Dorothea Hunter Sönne

On a leafy, tree-lined street in southeastern Naples, a group of children takes some time to think about what their future safe space might look like: An inviting music studio, an indoor gym, meditation and game rooms, and a dining area fit for 70. For these kids, the temporary home is the first step to a brighter future. Youth Haven, the only shelter for unhoused children and teens in Southwest Florida, aims to put that future in motion.

Sep 30, 2024 | gulfshorelife.com | Dorothea Hunter Sönne

The writer Hans Christian Andersen famously said, “To travel is to live.” But those of us who reside on the Paradise Coast would beg to differ—or at least amend the thought. One of the biggest perks of calling a resort town home: We have instant access to luxury hotels and their built-in culinary attractions. These properties continually seek to elevate guest experiences, with the art of destination dining at the forefront.

Sep 5, 2024 | gulfshorelife.com | Dorothea Hunter Sönne

Over the 14 years I’ve lived in Naples, The Turtle Club has been among our first stops when we’ve had houseguests. Sometimes, we sat inside, enveloped by AC and still pampered with views of inky blue and fiery orange sunsets. Most of the time, we took our chances with a table outside—the independently owned Vanderbilt Beach Resort restaurant is one of the few in town with tables on the sand.

Jun 28, 2024 | gulfshorelife.com | Dorothea Hunter Sönne

Beyond the turquoise waters and wide stretches of sugary sand, the charm of Boca Grande is sealed by the porched and columned facades that convey the bygone days of Old Florida—and its charming Southern drawl.