Category:

Florida

A Taste of Southern Barbecue

Pig Floyd’s Urban Barbakoa is the cool kids’ answer to straightforward Southern barbecue in Central Florida. This compact restaurant along Mills Avenue in the Mills 50 district certainly packs a punch well above its size. The owner, Thomas Ward, has made great use of the limited space available to provide an amazing counter service BBQ restaurant with an industrial feel, white washed brick walls, stone floor and open theater kitchen, it is right on trend, with a patio area for cooler days and nights, it’s the perfect place to hang out and enjoy great food.

The food roster highlights the usual items: brisket, ribs, slaw, pork belly and the like. But it’s the Caribbean, Latin and Asian twists that set Pig Floyd’s apart from eateries such as Southern Moon, another Orlando food-truck spinoff, and 4 Rivers Smokehouse.

The term “One man’s meat is another man’s poison “could not be truer than when describing BBQ, as everyone has their own interpretation on what makes BBQ great, but make no mistake Pig Floyd’s is right up there with the best, as witnessed by the line out the door and the happy sighs of customers tucking into Thomas Ward’s food.

This Latin, Asian, and Southern American BBQ fusion joint in Orlando’s Mills 50 district has a nice list of bites, including Matambre smoked brisket sandwiches topped with egg, Indian Butter chicken tacos and the Latin plantain and fried yuca sides. But it’s all about the Oakwood Smoked St. Louis Barbecue Ribs here. Succulent. Juicy. Sweet, yet refined. Delicious. When you can get it, it’s really good. The problem is that it is can sell out fast, so call ahead and make sure they’ve got some ready for you.

Pig Floyd Urban Barbakoa is at 1326 N. Mills Ave., Orlando. It is open for lunch and dinner daily, including late night (midnight) on Fridays and Saturdays.

Photo Credit: www.tripadvisor.com

Attractions Cities of Florida Florida Restaurants Tampa

A Temple Chaser`s Spot in Florida

Less than ten miles north of the Tampa International Airport, on an unassuming side road that rolls through the flat terrain and lush vegetation typical of Florida’s bay area, an architecturally distinctive building bursts suddenly above the treetops. Built to serve the needs of a growing Indian community, the Hindu Temple of Florida is unique among its suburban environs.

Completed in 1996, the building is characterized by its prominent pyramid structure, which forms an entrance tower situated atop an exterior staircase that conducts worshippers to a rooftop courtyard and pooja room. After the building’s completion, a process of “Indianization” began to adorn the exterior in the florid architectural details seen today.

The temple is adorned with so many sculptures of Hindu Gods and Goddesses. Get this, all of it was hand carved by people they bought from India. This massive structure is located on Lynn road, close to Foster Elementary School. Lots of parking available by the compound. They offer prayers in the morning and evening. I always try to come hungry when visiting the temple, their canteen makes some amazing made-to-order South Indian food. South Indian foods are hard to find since most restaurants only offer North Indian dishes

The Hindu Temple of Florida is available for weddings, birthdays, and various public and private poojas, and is attended by priests who conduct services primarily in Sanskrit. Consistent with the non-canonical nature of Hinduism—the oldest religion in the world—the temple has no prescribed days or times for services, nor required donations or methods of worship.

Overall, amazing place to learn more on Hinduism and try some yummy South Indian cuisine. By the way, like most temples they do have a dress code here you are required to modest clothing and you will be asked to remove your shoes before stepping onto the steps of the temple.

Photo Credit: www.atlasobscura.com

Attractions Cities of Florida Florida Travel

3,2,1 … Blast Off Florida!!

No doubt about it, Florida is a very popular destination for the winter holidays. If you are treating yourself to sun, sand and space this holiday season. The tour starts with a 90-minute bus tour of the entire complex that showed us the actual vehicle assembly building where the rockets are assembled, the launchpad for the shuttles all the while explaining what goes into getting to space. We stopped off first to watch the history of the NASA space program and its progress over the years

The introduction was all about how the ‘man on the moon’ mission came about along with the speech from Kennedy, followed by the actual control room from where the first successful shuttle to the moon was launched, to live the ‘race to the moon’. With a countdown timer running on the side, the relevant controls lighting up in front of us and the realistic sound and light effect of a rocket launch. The exhibit closes with one walking into a large area displaying Saturn V, at 363 feet long, the largest rocket ever built.

Kennedy Space Center (KSC) is located in Cape Canaveral. The approach road takes on a deserted appeal as you close in to KSC – security restrictions coupled with the fact that the 3-mile radius of the launch facility is strictly out-of-bounds explains this. Since 1968 to date KSC has been the launch site for all US manned space flights, while its neighbor Cape Canaveral Air Force Station conducts the unmanned civilian launches. Also, KSC is considered as part of the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge which was established by National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) in its quest for space exploration way back in 1963 and as such it is illegal to kill wildlife within the facility.

A trip to NASA is guaranteed to inspire awe and amazement, it will give you a renewed feeling of wide eyed wonder at really how amazingly expansive the universe is, and how, despite all our breath-taking achievements, we’ve only gone so far…. and the sky calls to us.

Photo Credit: https://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/

Cities of Florida Florida Travel

Why Florida is Unique

When Walt Disney drew plans for the Walt Disney World, he wanted it away from the beaches because the beaches in California are competing for the tourist to Disney land. With a Florida time share, you can have both the appeal of the beaches for the water sports lover and the enthusiasm of the young at heart.

You are only a short drive away from the famous beaches of Florida and the most favored vacation destination anywhere on Earth, the Walt Disney World.

One thing that is a common experience of time share owners is the opportunity bit gives for families to bond together during vacations. On vacations, memories are made and times lost with the family are regained. A Florida time share opens up a variety of vacation options. You are only a short drive away from the famous beaches of Florida and the most favored vacation destination anywhere on Earth, the Walt Disney World.

If you are a huge fan of white sandy beaches, beautiful people and crystal blue waters, visit Southeast and Northeast Florida. Many beaches here are rated on the top ten most beautiful beaches in the world. A Florida time share gets you near these locations where you can experience water activities like surfing, fishing, scuba diving, boating or just lazing it out in the sun. You can also visit the Florida Keys, which is a short trip from Miami. Visiting the keys is a unique experience whether by land or by plane.

If you are a huge fan of white sandy beaches, beautiful people and crystal blue waters, visit Southeast and Northeast Florida.

On the other hand, mention a vacation that includes trips to the Walt Disney World to the little ones and be prepared to see eyes light up, squeals of excitement and the constant check of the calendar as the countdown to the day when you will take your vacation begins. Even if you use your Florida time share year after year, the reactions will remain the same. The fun at preparation, the seemingly short days during the vacation and the memories that will endure long after the vacation is over. Find your self being caught up in the experiences of the last vacation and preparing for the next.

Florida time share resales are attractive to many vacationers in the world because of its attractions not to mention the mild climate, the majestic sunsets and the vibrant culture. The nearby Walt Disney World alone attracts 40 million visitors every year.

Many Florida time share holders seldom have their weeks unused. Those who do can always have an excellent exchange because a Florida time share is investing in a prime vacation destination.

Attractions Cities of Florida Florida

Spiegel Grove

The latest shipwreck dive site in the Florida Keys for scuba divers is the USS Spiegel Grove. This is a former US Navy Landing Ship Dock that was sunk in 2002 to create an artificial reef in Key Largo, much like the Duane and Bibb ships were in the same general area.

The Spiegel Grove is 510 feet in length and 84 feet wide making it the largest of the shipwrecks accessible to scuba divers in the Florida Keys. This wreck sits at a depth of 134 feet near Dixie Shoals and the depth at the highest point of the ship is about 60 to 65 feet depending on the tide level.

The Spiegel Grove had been lying on her starboard side after initial sinking and was reported to be a great dive. Hurricane Denis which greatly affected the south Florida area, actually made this wreck dive even better. The waves and surges from the hurricane were strong enough to push the entire ship to an upright position much like how the Duane is sitting. This resulted in better orientation of the ship for scuba divers especially since there are some swim throughs located throughout the wreck.

Most of the scuba dive operators in Key Largo have dive trips to the Spiegel Grove since this site is the latest rage in the local scuba diving. Since it is a deep dive, advance certification is required. Scuba divers can also dive the Spiegel Grove as part of their advance certification course. The dive plan for this wreck is very similar to that of the Duane. The dive site is often in an area with heavy currents so as soon as divers jump in the water, they have to go grab a line and pull themselves towards the front of the dive boat where the line is attached to the descent line. Divers then pull themselves down towards the wreck. Unlike the Duane which has descent lines on both ends of the ship, the Spiegel Grove has three lines since it is a much larger ship. The ascent and safety stop is on these same lines since the currents can be strong at any depth. It is highly recommended that any cameras and other devices are secured by lanyards since losing them in these currents is possible.

As one descends on the Spiegel Grove, one will see just how large this ship is. This will keep many divers excited. Lots of divers in the area have dived the Spiegel Grove before and are only happy to dive it again to explore the different compartments accessible in the wreck.

This ship is also unique as it has a large crane in the stern area since it was used as a landing ship dock. For enthusiasts interested in the beauty of shipwrecks themselves, this will be considered a great dive. The only downside to this dive is the amount of marine life on the wreck. Barracuda, large angelfish and other fish can be spotted on the Spiegel Grove but not nearly as many as on the Duane. This is why some divers may still prefer the Duane over the Spiegel Grove if marine life is their primary interest in scuba diving. But the Spiegel Grove is still a relatively new dive site compared to the Duane so in time, the amount of marine life will increase at this site making it even better in the future. Both the Spiegel Grove and the Duane are highly recommended dives for all scuba divers with a minimum of advance certification when diving in the Key Largo area.

Cities of Florida Florida Sarasota Travel

Travel The Sarasota

Sarasota, Florida, may not be either Disney World or Miami, but it is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, as well as serviceable art museums and a fascinating marine aquarium. It’s a great place to spend your next vacation. Siesta Key and Longboat Key, while pricey, have miles of award-winning beaches, along with plenty of beach activities: boating, dining, and playing. Every Saturday night, the drum circle occurs at Siesta Key. This is a gathering on the beach of musicians, poets, and drummers, and it’s famous in Sarasota – a great thing to go to for those looking for something to do “off the beaten path.”

Photo credit: sarasotacarmuseum.org

At the intersection of 41 and University Parkway sits the Classic Car Museum, a treasure trove of antique automobiles and other Americana, such as arcade games and posters. This is a great place to spend a rainy day as it’s mostly inside. Practically across the street from the Classic Car Museum is the Ringling Museum of Art, an ever-growing museum complex funded by circus magnate John Ringling’s estate. His house, C’adz’an, has recently been restored and is pen to the public.

The museum is much bigger than it looks, and the rotating exhibits change several times a year – this is a Sarasota “must-see.” Down the street from the Ringling Museum lies the Sarasota Jungle Gardens, a botanical zoo in which one can feed pelicans and flamingoes, sit among exotic plants, or pose for a photo with several parrots perched on your shoulder. Further south along US 41, you will find the Mote Marine Laboratory, a marine aquarium. It’s more “scientific” than the nearby marine aquarium in Tampa, but it also manages to be quite family-friendly, and Snooty, the resident manatee- has been delighting visitors for decades.

Across the parking lot is the Pelican Man Bird Sanctuary, which takes in lost, injured, or abandoned birds and rehabilitates them. Any aspiring birdwatchers will find a visit to this small charity really heartwarming.
For a small city, Sarasota offers a surprising amount of ethnic restaurants. For example, Tropical Thai on Main Street offers lovely and decently-priced meals. Mickey’s on Pineapple Ave is another great choice, offering “fusion” American – Italian cuisine, a friendly staff, lots of vegetarian options, and live music on weekends.

Sarasota is a small city, but the possibilities are vast, and this article has only just begun to scratch the surface. Hopefully it will get you started and pointed in the right direction for your visit!

Cities of Florida Florida Tampa Travel

Few Reason Why Relocating to Tampa Bay Is A Good Idea

Its no wonder that Florida’s Tampa Bay area has become such a popular choice for relocating adults and families to call home. The west coast of Florida has mile after mile of white, sandy beaches and magnificently, beautiful natural resources. These areas include the city of Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, as well as Palm Harbor, Tarpon Springs and Oldsmar.

Picture if you will, the opportunity for renewing your spirit any time you need a recharge. Dip your toes into the gentle, warm gulf waters of Tampa Bay. Let your troubles roll out to sea with the tides. As the waves return to once again touch the shores, let them bring you peace and a renewed sense of self. Now that you feel newly invigorated, perhaps you will want to head over to one of the areas more populated beaches, such as Clearwater Beach or St. Petersburg Beach, for some adventure. Take the whole family for a day of fun-filled activities such as collecting sea shells, building sand castles, swimming, fishing, parasailing, or take a cruise for the chance for spotting a whale or a group of dolphins.

You will find exciting activities away from the beaches as well. You can spend the day shopping to find that unique gift for yourself or a loved one. Take in an art gallery or take the family on a historic tour of the area or even to one of the many museums you will find throughout Florida’s Tampa Bay area. When you get hungry, you will find plenty of fine dining and family restaurants to satisfy even the most finicky of eaters.

The Tampa Bay area is also home to some of the best theatre productions, live music, and sporting events to be found anywhere. Attend a play or watch in awe, the beauty of ballet, for a cultural experience your family will not soon forget. The sports fan will be delighted as a spectator at one of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers action-filled football games. Those who like to gamble a bit might enjoy a little time spent betting, at one of the areas Greyhound Racing tracks.

You will find that life along Florida’s West Coast offers on one hand, an oasis from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and even the influx of tourists that visit Florida each year: but also provides you with many recreational and educational activities to enhance the time that you spend with your family. And of course, you are just a short distance drive from family attractions such as Disney World, Busch Gardens, Universal Studios, Cypress Gardens, and Universal Studios. But unlike visitors who only get to experience some of what Florida’s West Coast has to offer, as a resident, you can discover and explore all that is here, at your own pace.

You can rely on your Tampa real estate representative to provide you with all of the information and assistance that you will need as you become an official “Floridian.” A real estate agent can help you select the neighborhood that best matches your living style and needs. Whether you’re looking for a suitable neighborhood to raise a family in, or a community for adults 55 and over, or looking to settle in where other single, middle-aged people are already living: your real estate agent can help you locate these areas.

Together you and your agent can explore the many housing options available to you. From single-family dwellings to single adult condominium complexes and retirement villas, so that you can choose the one that is best for you. These friendly and knowledgeable real estate representatives can also assist you in obtaining the financing you need to make your dream of relocating to Florida’s West Coast, a reality!

Attractions Cities of Florida Florida Orlando Tampa Travel

What are the Must-see attractions in Orlando?

Orlando, Florida is filled with attractions for vacationers of every age group; it is known for its beaches, golf courses, night life, museums, restaurants, and theme parks. Three all-time tourist favorites include Disney World, Busch Gardens, and Universal Studios, Florida.

Disney World:

The home of Mickey Mouse, Goofy, and Donald Duck is a perennial favorite with not just kids for whom it offers a mind boggling range of things to see and do. The overwhelming extent of experiences that Disney World offers ensures that adults too have a great time. Accommodation at Walt Disney World, which has over twenty hotels, offers a choice to suit every wallet. The Disney Animal Kingdom Lodge and the Disney Contemporary Resort are two of the most popular resorts with a unique theme and excellent service. Vacationers can take advantage of the various promotional packages offered by Disney World from time to time. In one visit, it is not possible to take in all the rides and get one’s fill of everything that Disney World has to offer; however there are some classic rides such as Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Peter Pan, Primeval Whirl, etc. The Magic Kingdom, which is spread over 100 acres, can be accessed via the Monorail or the Steamer. It has several attractions of which the chance to pose with Disney characters and getting their autographs is high on the wish-list of many children. It is best to enjoy Disney World in the company of a local acquaintance who can point out the major attractions and also the early-entry days during which hotel-guests are allowed to enter early.

Busch Gardens:

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is an approximately one-hour drive from Orlando. Many vacationers find its location, which is away from the hustle and bustle of Orlando, to be an added attraction. The Busch Garden Shuttle Express is a free service with a 5-Park Orlando Flexi Ticket; it’s an alternative for those do not wish to travel to the park by road. Busch Gardens offer several exciting attractions that replicate the wonders of Africa. The wildlife includes more than 2,000 animals and thrilling roller-coaster rides are a hit with the kids and adults alike. The Sky Ride cable car affords an excellent view of the park. Attractions at the park also include the Serengeti Railway that has several stations around the park; the Haunted Lighthouse, which is a 4D show for kids over seven; KaTonga, which is a 35-minute musical celebrating African fables; the tomb of King Tut; Serengeti Safari tours; the slides and rides at the Land of the Dragon, and many others. Food at the Busch Gardens ranges from pizzas and turkey legs at Quick Bite and fine dining at the Crown Colony Restaurant. Preferred parking is available alongside the main entrance.

Universal Studios Florida:

Universal Studios in Orlando is the largest studio outside Hollywood. This major tourist attraction of Hollywood has some very popular rides and experiences that are based on hit movies. Terminator 2 is a high-tech 3D adventure; Back to the Future is a simulated ride that has one falling down volcanic tunnels; Twister and Earthquake are other thrill-a-minute shows in which an individual experiences a five-storey volcano and the power of an earthquake. Other attractions at Universal include Kong, Nickelodeon, ET, the Animal Show, etc. The main rides and attractions are at the edges of the oval-shaped Universal plot, which is quite huge. Priority parking and valet parking are available, these make exiting the Universal premises at the end of a fun-filled but tiring day a little easier.

Florida Travel

State Parks to Visit in Florida

Florida State Parks are some of the greatest in the nation because of the diverse beauty found throughout the state. The 159 state parks in Florida offer a variety of activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, horseback riding, boating, and cultural and historic exhibitions. At some of Florida’s state parks visitors can even enjoy snorkeling and diving in the crystal waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area

Central Florida State Parks are tourist favorites because of their variety of landscapes and outdoor activities. Beach lovers can enjoy sunny Flagler Beach at the Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area. This Florida State Park offers ocean side camping in a fully equipped campground, as well as many recreational opportunities, including the popular beach and a refreshing nature trail. Bring along your Coleman inflatable sit-on-top kayak and enjoy boating through the Intracoastal Waterway on one side of this Central Florida State Park.

Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park photo credit: http://www.floridaparks.com/

Another great Central Florida State Park for boating, as well as exploration of Florida’s rich history, is the Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park. Guests are not allowed to camp overnight at this national historic landmark, but the park makes a terrific day trip. Visitors can walk through the trails surrounding the plantation ruins and see various interpretive demonstrations about the site’s history. Picnicking, fishing, and boating along Bulow Creek are also popular activities.

Faver-Dykes State Park

Also in central Florida, Faver-Dykes State Park is a favorite for bird watching and canoe camping. This Florida State Park, just south of St. Augustine, borders peaceful Pellicer Creek, a state canoe trail. Guests to the park can enjoy picnicking, camping, and fishing. There are several nature trails throughout the park for a closer look at the abundant wild life, including otter, deer, hawks, and herons. Canoe rentals are also available.

Campsite at Lake Kissimmee State Park.

To experience a life long forgotten in Central Florida, visit Lake Kissimmee State Park, only a shot drive from America’s most popular vacation destination, Orlando, Florida. Lake Kissimmee State Park is home to 3 beautiful lakes that are perfect for fishing, boating, or simply enjoying the area wildlife that includes bald eagles, cranes, and even wild bobcat. Living history demonstrations are also available at the restored cow ranch like the ones in the area more than a century ago. Full facility camping is available at this popular Central Florida State Park, as well as primitive and group camping facilities, and there are over 13 miles of hiking and riding trails through the scenic park.

Ravine Gardens State Park
Photo Credit: boa247.com/

The amazing beauty of unique Ravine Gardens State Park in Palatka, Florida draws visitors from all over for all sorts of occasions. The large, air conditioned Civic Center is a popular location for meetings and weddings, while the 1800 sq. ft. wired picnic pavilion is perfect for receptions, family reunions, and other large gatherings. Smaller picnic tables are also available, as well as many miles of hiking trails through the breathtaking azalea gardens planted throughout the once barren ravine.

Florida State Parks are so popular with tourists from across the nation that the state division of parks and recreation has developed an informative guide to the 159 wondrous parks. Called Passport to Florida State Parks, the book is available through the state parks division.

Attractions Cities of Florida Florida

A Day in Walt Disney World

If one is given the chance to visit and spend a vacation in the United States, one of the most must to and go to state is Florida. This place has been blessed with beaches, amusement parks, national parks, and an array of unique tourist attractions which makes it one of the most visited state in America. Of course amongst all these to go to places on top of the list must and should be Walt Disney World.

Visitors who visit Walt Disney World for the first time often make a lot of mistakes, simply because there`s just a lot of things to do and of course so little time and not to mention things you won`t simply know until you go there. That is why here`s a simple guide based on the experience of seasoned Disney World goers and my personal experience.

First Stop: Animal Kingdom

It`s best to start things off here since most animals are more active in the morning and the wait time for the rides are shorter during this time of the day. You can kick things off by trying out with Expedition Everest roller coaster ride and make your way to the Dinosaur ride and if you still have some spare time try Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail. After which, it would be good to walk around the park a bit before proceeding to the next stop which is the Hollywood Studios.

Second Stop: Hollywood Studios

Our next suggested stop on the list is the Hollywood Studios Area, the go to rides I would suggest are the Tower of Terror!, Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith and of course The Great Movie Ride. The last ride a mention takes you to a memory lane drive of how things were back then during the classics and it`s transition to our current films.

Third Stop: Epcot

Next on the list is the Epcot Area, the front of the park has all the rides and the back of the park has all the restaurants from around the world, with a couple of rides like Frozen (Warning: If you decide to go for this ride, prepare yourself for a long queue. Especially since people book this ride as early as 60 days in advance. ) Aside from Frozen other popular rides are Test Track and Soarin. You probably have time to choose 1 of these rides and it`s best to go for not so long-lined rides like The Seas with Nemo & Friends and other more to maximize your trip.

Fourth Stop: Magic Kingdom

Of course our Final stop for our quick Walt Disney Trip since it stays open the latest and you can watch the famous fireworks and parades by Cinderella’s castle. You can probably fit in 5-7 rides depending on wait times and your energy level. Rides that are featured here are Pirates of the Caribbean. Big Thunder Mountain, Splash Mountain, Space Mountain, Under the Sea – Journey of The Little Mermaid and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train (Note: The rides mentioned have a long queue so it`s best to plan which rides you want to really try and go for the less long waiting time rides).

Walt Disney World is a Huge place it`s approximately 25,000 acres, has 24 hotels, 4 theme parks, 2 water parks. With that in mind it is strongly suggested to plan your trip especially if you only have limited time. If you find our suggested walkthrough for your 1 day Walt Disney World trip a good one or you might have some suggestions on what rides you must try, please feel free to send as a message.

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