Local Wild Life at the Fair

While amusement parks and beaches provide great entertainment for your kids, entertainment is only one of the reasons to travel with children.  Travel is also a great way to introduce your kids to other parts of the world and how other people live.  My mother used to call it exposure.

As fun as Disney World may be, you don’t get a great sense of how different people live from an encounter with Mickey Mouse.

The next time you plan a family vacation, search for a local fair for a great opportunity to teach your children about local culture.

Read More »

golfing at Daytona Lagoon

Daytona Beach is the perfect place to enjoy the sun, the ocean, and the beautiful Florida weather.  While it’s hot as… um, somewhere really hot… inland, the coastal breezes and the Atlantic Ocean offer plenty of relief from scorching temperatures.

Unfortunately, there is also a really, really good chance that you’ll get rained out if you visit Daytona Beach from May to September.  And as fabulous as the beaches of Daytona are, they are considerably less fabulous during a thunderstorm.

Daytona Lagoon offers the perfect solution when you’re vacation gets rained out. Read More »

All over Florida, if you know where to look, you can find natural fresh water springs that feed the many rivers and lakes around the state.  What makes these springs truly remarkable are the clear pools of water and “runs” that form around them – pools of 72 degree water large enough for swimming and snorkeling in the hot, Florida sun.

Silver Glen Springs is one example of these natural spring pools and runs that you can find in the Ocala National Forest – and it’s a great place to spend a weekend in Central Florida.

Silver Glen Springs is an ideal place to take small children to enjoy the great outdoors.  The water is crystal clear, clean, and shallow.  It’s a great place for them to enjoy the water without waves or a strong river current to contend with.

Swimming at Silver Glen Springs

Many people bring their boats to Silver Glen Springs by way of Lake George and the narrow run that connects the spring and lake.  The shores – and the middle of the run – will be lined with boats of all shapes and sizes during the warm months.  You can swim off the back of the boat, fish, or just sit and enjoy the weather and scenery.

Boats at Silver Glen Springs

more boats

You shouldn’t expect to catch dinner at Silver Glen Springs.  However, my kids love to practice the catch and release with the small fish.  The water is so clear that you can actually watch as the fish take your bait – and swim away while leaving your hook behind.

Catch and Release Fishing at its best!

Of course, you don’t have to have a boat to enjoy Silver Glen Springs.  Among the hiking trails, you’ll find a roped off swimming area with dozens of picnic tables set up right along the water’s edge.  There’s also open space for a volleyball net and canoe rentals.

Recreational Area at Silver Glen Springs

There’s no cost to enjoy the springs if you get there by boat.  If you drive into Ocala National Forest and park your car before walking to the recreational area, you will need to pay about $4 per adult.

If you’re looking for a great place for a camping vacation in Central Florida – or just want to enjoy a bit of nature over the weekend – make a point to visit Ocala National Forest.

The Ocala National Forest is located about an hour and a half north of Orlando and only about 20 miles southeast of Gainesville.  But those driving estimates are to the outer borders of the forest so you should plan additional time to get to any of the springs and parks within the forest.  It’s a giant forest that reaches into four Florida counties and covers more than 600 square miles.

It’s a big place.

The Ocala National Forest is only the second largest forest in Florida, but is the oldest national forest east of the Mississippi.  In other words – this place is kind of a big deal historically.  Blah, blah, blah.

More importantly, there is a ton of stuff to do at Ocala National Forest.

Tubing on Lake George in Ocala National Forest

There are 11 lakes in Ocala National Forest.  The lakes are a great place for boat rides, tubing, water skiing and fishing.  In addition to the lakes, there are many natural springs located in the forest.  The springs are a great place for kids to swim in clear shallow waters with virtually no current.

Throughout the forest you’ll find designated recreation areas.  These spots are set up with picnic tables and portable bathrooms (ew).

Picnic area in Ocala National Forest

If you’re the adventurous type (read: not afraid of alligators), you can rent canoes from many of the rec areas along the springs.

Canoe with the alligators in Ocala National Forest

And yes, you should expect to run into an alligator or two.  If you venture into the woods along one of the many hiking trails, you should also be prepared to spot deer, fox, coyote and the occasional Black Bear.  Ocala National Forest has the highest concentration of the Florida Black Bear.

This is probably where the alligators are hiding.

If the wild animals don’t scare you off, you can spend the night in Ocala National Forest at one of the many campsites.  You do need to stick to designated areas and expect to pay a small fee for overnight camping.

Ravenous animals with sharp teeth aside, Ocala National Forest is large enough that you can always find a spot for your family to spend the day enjoying Mother Nature.  It’s a great place to go with kids and there’s plenty for everyone in the family to do.

FYI: this is not a Florida Black Bear

Even the adults will enjoy themselves.

As an official Floridian, I get emails all the time from people with questions about their upcoming Orlando vacations.  Apparently, a Florida driver’s license makes me an expert on tourism.  Well, that and my awesome habit of usually being right and knowing everything.

Most recently, a friend emailed to ask me which theme park is better – Walt Disney World or Universal Studios Orlando?

My expert opinion is that it depends.

Universal Studios vs. Disney World

Questions to ask when deciding which theme park is right for your vacation.

How old are your kids?

Both of the mega theme parks in Orlando cater to children.  Obviously.  But the age of your children will make a big difference in what they’ll get out of each.

Walt Disney World is perfect for toddlers and preschool age children. My 4 year old daughter thinks that Disney World is heaven and Mickey Mouse just might be the Messiah.  Which is a testament to Disney’s marketing and not at all a reflection of my poor parenting.

meeting Mickey

There is a limitless supply of things for her to look at it.  From parades to musical shows, we could easily spend days and days just sitting and watching stuff at Disney World and she would never be bored.  My 9 year old son?  His eyes were in danger of rolling out of his head after the first 5 minutes of the Mickey Club House sing-a-long show.

Disney World also has tons of rides and attractions that are suited to a younger child.  A Small World doesn’t scare the crap out of my daughter, and she is more than happy to stand in line for yet another ride on a carousel.

on the carousel

However, a trip to Universal Studios requires at least one adult willing to spend a lot of time sitting with a toddler and a stroller while everyone else goes on the big kid rides.  While Universal’s Islands of Adventure offers Dr. Seuss land, the overwhelming majority of rides and attractions are better suited for older children.

How much of your vacation is dedicated to theme parks?

Disney is best experienced in big, huge chunks. Our very first trip to Disney World was for an evening event.  We spent 4 hours at the Magic Kingdom and came home stressed out and exhausted from trying to squeeze as much in as we could in a short amount of time.  Our second trip to Disney World was for a long weekend and we stayed at a Disney World hotel.  We visited 3 of the 4 parks and everyone had a chance to do (or see) at least one thing on their Disney Must Do List.

If you’re going to do Disney, then do Disney.  Give yourself plenty of time to soak it all in and understand why it’s called the happiest place on Earth.  You’ll also save a ton of money by buying a multi-day ticket.

Universal Studios is perfect if you want to do something besides amusement parks during your Orlando vacation. You can spend one or two days and get the most out of both Universal parks.

Universal Studios roller coasters

If you’re trying to get as much into your vacation itinerary as possible on the lowest budget, spend the big bucks on Universal and then go for some of the cheaper things to do in Orlando (like a trip to the beach).  Central Florida offers so much more than roller coasters and cartoon characters.

How much money do you want to spend?

While the ticket prices for single day admission are comparable, I always find we spend more money when we go to Disney World than when we visit Universal Studios.

Of course Universal Studios has theme restaurants with overpriced hamburgers, souvenir shops, face painting and a dozen chances to have your family vacation immortalized in a caricature drawing.  But Disney is the master of the upsell.

You can tell we love our children because they have ears

You can’t walk three feet in Disney World without someone trying to convince your kids to ask you for money.  Vendors walk the streets hawking $10 balloons, neon necklaces, gourmet cookies and of course you have to buy the ears. And don’t forget all of the extra experiences you can buy!  You can have lunch with a character or giver your little girl a princess makeover – but don’t expect that to be included in your price of admission.

The biggest difference between the two parks is that Disney is an experience, while Universal Studios is an attraction.  You need to decide if you’re planning a Disney Vacation or a vacation to Florida.

(All photos by Britt Reints.  Obviously.  Or this would just be creepy.)

Today, February 27th, marks the official start of Bike Week 2009 in Daytona Beach, Florida!

If you’re a local within 100 miles of Daytona, that means watch out for extra bikes on the roads and give yourself extra time to get pretty much anywhere up and down the Volusia county coast.

Daytona Bike Week Street Model

If you’re a motorcycle fan, Bike Week is the perfect opportunity to get together with approximately 500,000 of your closest friends (or fellow bike enthusiasts at the very least).

Your first stop should be Riverfront Park, across from the Daytona Harley-Davidson.  That’s the official headquarters and you’ll find more event info, tours, shows, exhibits and live entertainment.

From there, you’ll find an endless supply of things to do from motorcycle drag racing to coleslaw wrestling!

Bike row at Daytona Beach Bike Week

Organized events during Bike Week at Daytona Beach:

Smiley’s Annual Pig Roast – March 1st at Smiley’s tap 1161 N US1, Ormond Beach. Music, beer and outside vendors.

Free Sober Pig Roast - March 1st from 12pm – 5pm.  Bring kids, canned soda and a side dish, but not alcohol or pets!  2512 Orange St., Bunnell

Daytona 200 by Honda – March 6th at the Daytona International Speedway.  The bikes will be on the track at 2pm and the racing begins at 8pm.  Daytona 200 tickets start at $45.00.

31st Annual Daytona Bike Week Swap Meet – March 6th going on all day.  Antique Bike Day & Show. Models ‘84 and older get in free. Daytona Flea Market, Tomoka Farms Rd., Daytona Beach

Country Mystery Road Tours – March 6th beginning with registration at 9am (rides start at 10am).  Choose from 150, 200 or 250 mile guided tours along Florida back roads.  Cost is $15 per bike and starts at 3602 International Speedway Blvd., Daytona Beach

Daytona Supercross by Honda – March 7th at the Daytona International Speedway.  Timed trials begin at 12:30pm and official opening ceremonies start at 6:45pm.  Supercross tickets start at $10.

Bike Week Pigfest – March 7th beginning at 1:00pm.  Sponsored by American Legion Post 270, get food, music and prizes for the oldest Bike Week shirt!  Located at 119 Howes St., Port Orange.

Fit to ROAR Seminar - March 7th at 10am, ROAR motorcycles talks about motorcycles and accessories exclusively for women.  12pm-4pm you’ll find free food and live music. 897 Bellevue Ave;, Daytona Beach

Custom Chopper Show – March 7th, show begins at 10am.  This is he 37th annual Rat’s Hole Custom Chopper Show and will feature bikes from around the world.  Daytona Lagoon, 601 Earl St., Daytona Beach

Classic Motorcycle Auction – March 7th at 11:00am.  This is billed as America’s oldest antique motorcycle auction. Stetson University, Edmunds Athletic Center, DeLand

Blessing of Bikes – March 8th at 9:30am.  Have your bikes blessed in the North Church parking lot of St. Paul’s Basillica. 300 Blk. North Ridgewood Ave., Daytona Beach

Get a full list of Bike Week events, including sponsors, locations and times at Daytona’s Official Bike Week site.

Daytona Bike Week

While you’re enjoying the Florida sun and mild February temperatures, remember there’s lots to do in Central Florida before, during and after Bike Week!

Other things to do and see in Central Florida include:

See the manatees in Blue Springs State Park – hundreds of manatees are looking for warmth at the springs in Blue Springs State Park.

Central Florida Zoo – about a 20 minute drive from Daytona Beach down 1-4, the Central Florida Zoo offers one of the few crowd free attractions in the area.

Local Central Florida Landmarks - the eastern coastline of Florida was home to some of the earliest settlements in America.  That means there is an ample supply of historic and interesting landmarks to see in the area.

No matter how long you stay or how far outside of Daytona Beach you venture, remember to ride safe and sober.  The Florida Highway Patrol will be out in full force, just in case!

Orlando has Mickey Mouse.  And Universal Studios.  And water parks up the wazoo.  Hell, we have an entire part of town commonly referred to as “the attractions”.

You came for the amusement parks, we get it.

But what locals (and celebrities) (and celebrities who are also locals) also get is that Orlando offers unbeatable shopping. Whether you’re a bargain hunter (that’s me!), a label whore (Oh! Hi! Also me!) or just a casual window shopper (not at all me) – you’ll find the perfect shopping experience in Orlando.

Here’s what you need to know, from a self proclaimed local Orlando shopping expert (me again!):

Mall at Millenia is THE place for gawking and designer labels

I’m not talking about Hollister and Banana Republic (although you will find these havens of yuppy wanna be somebodys at Millenia as well).  I’m talking about the stores that make your thinks she’s a big deal because she’s a lawyer friend look like a welfare mom.

Louis Vitton.  Gucci.  Chanel.  Jimmy Choo (angels sing in here, people, I swear).

And not outlet Gucci or Chanel.  Real, actual, requires armed guards at the entrance Gucci and Chanel.

Think Rodeo Drive with a roof.  And fewer celerities.

IKEA is a true shopping maven’s worst nightmare

I hate IKEA.  Hate.  IKEA takes everything that is fantastic about shopping and sucks the soul from it.  I am loathe to even tell you that one exists in the Orlando area for fear that you will not be able to ignore the siren call of inexpensive, cheaply made, contemporary crap.

But it’s located right next door to the Mall at Millenia.  If you’re into that kind of thing.

Prime Outlets kicks Premium Outlets outdated butt

A Practical Find From Premium Outlet

There are two outlet malls located between Mall at Millenia and the attractions.  Both of them are located right along I-4.  Both of them have names that begin with a P.  Which means it is completely understandable how someone could take an entire day off work to enjoy one awesome outlet mall and find herself smack dab in the middle of another not nearly as awesome outlet mall.  And not realize it until she’d been at said another mall for roughly two hours.

I’m just saying.

Prime Outlets is the newer of the two P-Outlets in Orlando.  And while both offer an extensive selection of designer outlet stores (including BCBG and Coach that will make you swoon), only one (Prime) offers you the opportunity to pick through oversized bins of underwear at the Victoria Secret Outlet Store.

You just can’t beat a Victoria’s Secret bra for $9.99.

You have to endure The Florida Mall in order to enjoy Sephora and Aveda

The Florida Mall was designed by a moron.  It boasts 270 stores on one level, creating a sprawling disaster of indiscriminate hallways, courts and wings to navigate through.

But?  It boasts 270 stores.  In one place.  And most importantly, it is the only place in Orlando to find a Sephora and an official Aveda store.  If you’re traveling into Orlando from one of the thousands of cities that do not offer a Sephora, you simply have to take the time to visit The Florida Mall in order to experience the cosmetic mecca.

Just bring your walking shoes, water, and a map.

(You can’t actually get a map of the mall.  I made that part up.  Although, if you could that would be a genius idea.)

Flea Markets are actually awesome.

This might surprise you, but I’m a bit of a shopping snob.  So I was not at all impressed with the endless roadside billboards telling me about all of the “BIGGEST FLEA MARKETS IN THE WORLD!” or the “FLEA MARKETS WITH AIR CONDITIONING!”

It’s called a flea market.  Ew.

And then one Sunday a friend of mine dragged me into one under the guise of searching for a really great knock off purse.  My eyes were opened and my life forever changed.  Florida flea markets (and farmer’s markets if you can find them) offer some of the most fantastic deals on absolutely everything.  From unique jewelry and imported African art to luggage sets and kitchen utensils, you’ll find a booth offering you half off of anything your heart desires – and things your heart didn’t even know it wanted.

Trust me on this.  If you see a sign for a flea market, pull over. Immediately.  (And don’t be ashamed to bring in your own hand sanitizer.)

Now, you’ll notice on this little map that most of the places mentioned here are in the same general area.

Map of Orlando Shopping

That’s not to say that these are the only places you can shop in Central Florida.  But if you’re looking for a central location for your visit, this is obviously a good area to start.

Because of the proximity of the amusement parks, you’ll find literally hundreds of hotels, restaurants and clubs to choose from in the area.  While you’re in the neighborhood, I highly recommend the Brazilian Steakhouse (or Churrascaria), Texas de Brazil.

Click here to access the map directly on Google Maps.

Success

All photos provide by Britt Reints and her iPhone.

Blue Springs State Park

Every winter, Blue Springs State Park offers Central Florida visitors a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with some amazing natural phenomenons.

First is the spring itself, around which the park is designed.  The Blue Spring is the largest natural spring on the St. John’s river.

If you’ve never seen a natural spring before, you’re in for a treat!  Which is cliche, I know, but true.  The entrance to the spring is actually a large underwater cave that feeds out into what can best be described as a large creek.  Eventually the creek widens and flows into the very large St. John’s River.

The water is 73 degrees year around.  Even on the coldest January days, visitors to the park can feel free to swim in the warm waters.  Of course, you’ll want to bring a towel and something warm to get into as soon as you get out of the water and step into the much colder air.

If you do venture into the spring waters and head toward the mouth of the underwater cave, you may see professional divers who explore the spring’s opening almost daily.

Swimming with divers at Blue Springs State Park

You may also see an alligator or two.

Yes, it’s true.  Blue Springs State Park has signs posted up and down the water way warning visitors to watch for alligators.  In fact, the last time my family and I went we were pleased to see three very large alligators in the water – about five minutes after we had gotten out of it.

It's a marsh in Florida - of course there are alligators!

Blue Springs State Park, which is located in Deland, Florida (about 25 minutes outside of Orlando), also features several walking trails for hiking, bird watching, and romantic hand holding.

Walking in Blue Springs State Park

But the most popular attraction at Blue Springs is the return of the manatees each winter.

The spring serves as a natural warm water haven for the manatees when the temperature of the St. John’s River plunges in October or November each year.  On some cool mornings, visitors can see more than 100 manatees swimming along the spring run in Blue Springs State Park.  As the weather (and water) warms up in the spring, you’ll find fewer and fewer manatee.  However, even as late as March you may run across a few refugees from Sea World’s rescue and rehabilitation program.

Annie and Rocket - Sea World Refugees

These two manatees, Annie and Rocket, had been released last March back into the wild by Sea World.  They were equipped with tracking devices to help trainers and scientists monitor if they are joining the other manatees and returning to the river to feed.

Manatee from Sea World's rescue program - injured by boat props

swimming at Blue Springs State Park

What makes Blue Springs State Park unique from other Central Florida attractions is the ease with which visitors can interact with nature.  Although park rangers forbid swimmers from approaching and/or touching the manatee, it’s not uncommon for the manatees to approach the swimmers and bump humans with their large noses.  They’re harmless, and swimming with them truly is a unique, calming experience.  Even the spring itself is easily accessible via wooden walk ways, piers and docks.

Blue Springs State Park is open 365 days a year from 8am until sundown.  Admission is $5.00 per vehicle, or $1.00 for bicycles and pedestrians.

All photos by Britt Reints