Author Archive
Vero Beach Museum of Art – Building Exterior and Entrance
Vero Beach Museum of Art: Created Entirely With Private Funds
I love Vero Beach Florida. There’s just something about the atmosphere in this little coastal town that is warm and inviting. Vero Beach, located right along the Atlantic Ocean, is a popular vacation destination just like much of the Sunshine State, but the vibe is different here. Tourists aren’t tripping over themselves, nor stepping on my freshly painted toenails! To me, Vero Beach has a more upscale feel. The casual elegance can be felt whether you’re driving through the older affluent neighborhoods, sneaking a peek inside the chic boutique hotels, sipping champagne in the classy dining rooms like the Ocean Grill, or window shopping the posh specialty stores.
But the very heart and soul of Vero Beach is in its arts and culture scene. Embedded within the borders of this beachside beauty you’ll find theater, opera, film, music, literature, and art. A lot of art! In fact, a thriving art community like this on Florida’s Treasure Coast was a bit of a surprise to me. I didn’t realize Vero Beach was so artsy. Everywhere you turn, this laid-back little town has a quietly sophisticated art gallery… or two or three or ten.
It’s no wonder then, that the Vero Beach Museum of Art (VBMA) is the nation’s largest art museum created entirely with private funds.
History (from the Vero Beach Museum of Art official website)
“Established in 1978.
The Vero Beach Museum of Art grew from the efforts and vision of two community arts groups: the Vero Beach Art Club and the Alliance for the Arts. The organizations raised funds from local private sources and the Museum, known as the Center for the Arts, opened its doors to the public debt free on January 31, 1986. In 1997, the Museum earned and was awarded accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums (AAM). Then in 1999, it launched a successful expansion campaign, which doubled the size of the facility to a total of 54,509 square feet. In 2002, its name was officially changed to the Vero Beach Museum of Art. More growth followed in 2007 with the creation of the Alice and Jim Beckwith Sculpture Park, and again in 2011-2012 with the Beckwith North Park Plaza Sculpture Park, a grand skylight covered Atrium, new entrance vestibule and the construction of a new Exhibitions and Collections wing, bringing the Museum’s total square footage to 75,228.”
Vero Beach Museum of Art – Located in Riverside Park, Vero Beach Florida
Vero Beach Museum of Art: Free Admission with American Horticultural Society Membership
I was excited to visit the Vero Beach Museum of Art (VBMA) for the first time. The Museum is located in a somewhat secluded section of town called Riverside Park, a sprawling park with a lush tropical setting. Across the street from the Museum of Art is the Riverside Theatre, named America’s largest small town professional theatre. This complex is the cultural epicenter of Indian River County. Between theatre shows, lecturer series, comedy acts, concerts, and special events, there’s always something going on here.
As hubby and I entered the Vero Beach Museum of Art, the cashier was friendly and welcoming. We received FREE admission because we are members of Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales, Florida. If you’re not familiar with the reciprocal benefits of the American Horticultural Society (AHS), you can view the program details here. Additionally, here’s a printable state by state list of the participating national botanical gardens, arboreta, and conservatories. With 320 museums, gardens, and attractions offering free or discounted admission, a Horticultural Society Membership pays for itself with just a few visits. In fact, a botanical garden membership made the cut for FloridaFunAndFork’s article “8 Unique Gift Ideas for Florida Residents.”
Regular admission price into Vero Beach Museum of Art for two adults is $20 ($10 each), so we saved 20 bucks on this visit! (Enough to buy two grande Caramel Macchiato’s from Starbucks — the perfect midday pick-me-up before heading to our next attraction!)
***TIP: The last Saturday of every month (unless otherwise indicated) is free Museum admission.
***NOTE: There is ample free public parking for the Vero Beach Museum of Art.
Outstanding Traveling Exhibits at Vero Beach Museum of Art
Museum of Art in Vero Beach — Small But Impressive
Certainly, walking into Vero Beach Museum of Art doesn’t have the same WOW factor as entering the Smithsonian or The Metropolitan Museum of Art, but then again, Vero Beach is far removed from the hustle and bustle of Washington D.C. or New York City! To me, Vero Beach Museum of Art is a direct reflection of Vero Beach itself… small but impressive!
The American and international art collections are displayed in a bright and airy contemporary setting. The Museum’s permanent collection includes over 880 works of art from the early twentieth century to the present, in a broad range of media — Glass, Paintings, Photography, Screen, Sculptures, Video, and Works on Paper. Each exhibit was small, but impressive and informative.
There were also three traveling exhibitions during our visit — Shadow and Light: The Etchings of Martin Lewis; Paul Outerbridge: New Color Photographs from Mexico and California, 1948 – 1955; and my favorite, Medieval To Metal: The Art & Evolution Of The GUITAR. (The latter was extremely interesting and educational.)
***NOTE: The Vero Beach Museum of Art has received TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence Award, meaning they consistently earn great reviews from travelers. Additionally, the Museum is rated #5 of 85 things to do in Vero Beach.
Paintings from the Permanent Collection at the Vero Beach Museum of Art
Helpful Docents at Vero Beach Museum of Art
As with any quality art museum, there was an abundance of personnel (security guards, staff, and docents) strategically stationed throughout the museum. Don’t let their presence intimidate you. Simply obey the rules of conduct, (standard for most art museums), and they won’t bother you. Don’t touch the artwork, don’t let your kids run wild, and don’t use flash photography. Pretty easy to comply with, eh?
The docents at the Vero Beach Museum of Art are awesome! The lady helping us was extremely knowledgeable and passionate when explaining the history and/or creative process behind any given work of art. She was unpretentious in her approach, not attempting to impress with her knowledge, only wanting to inspire. Her only desire was to humbly present enough detail to instill a greater appreciation for what we were looking at. It was not information overload, by any means. She only contributed if we showed interest in a specific work of art, otherwise, we were free to browse without interruption.
Favorites from the Museum’s Permanent Collection
Even though Vero Beach Museum of Art is small by most museum standards, hubby and I spent about 90 minutes there. The Museum has an incredible outdoor sculpture garden that was worth at least 30 minutes of our time. (I could have easily lingered longer, but this was a travel day for us, therefore hubby was anxious to get back on the road!)
I’m pleased to share with you some of my favorite art from the Museum’s permanent collection…
Sculpture by Federico Uribe: Chopsticks and Plastic Forks
This indoor sculpture by Federico Uribe is amazing at first glance. Then, when you realize what it is constructed from, it is even more spectacular! Take another look at my close-range shot on the right. Yes, those are actually wooden chopsticks and plastic forks! The creative mind of some artists is simply astonishing!
Deborah Butterfield Bronze Horse Sculptures
Here’s another work of art that is not what it appears to be at first glance. Actually, I was standing in close proximity staring at its beauty for quite a while before realizing what the material was. The horse sculpture looked as if it was made with twigs and tree branches, but it was pure bronze! The docent then approached me and explained the incredible detailed process that was used to create this sculpture.
The artist is famed sculptor Deborah Butterfield. Initially, Deborah uses found tree branches and wood pieces to create the horse sculpture. She then delivers the completed sculpture to a foundry who goes through the following process to make it into a bronze sculpture:
- The sculpture is photographed and each piece documented
- The sculpture is dismantled, one stick at a time, to be cast
- A ceramic shell coating is put over each stick
- Put into an oven until the wood is completely burned away
- The shell becomes the mold which is dipped into a plaster-based material and put into another kiln
- Molten metal (bronze) is poured into the mold
- Once solidified, the mold is broke open, and the cast cleaned
- The sculpture is reassembled using the original photographs
- Patina is applied by Deborah at the foundry to give the look of wood
- The sculpture is transported by truck to its new home (museum) and strategically placed using a crane
After hearing how the wooden pieces are all transformed into bronze, I was even more impressed with Deborah’s horse sculptures. There was a small one inside the Vero Beach Museum of Art and a life-sized one outside in the sculpture garden.
Amber Onyx Sculpture by Elizabeth Catlett
The above sculpture was formed with amber onyx by African-American artist and sculptor Elizabeth Catlett. In a career spanning more than 70 years, this granddaughter of slaves used much of her art to advocate for social change in the United States with themes relating to race and feminism.
Security Guard Sculpture at Vero Beach Museum of Art
Okay, honestly… this sculpture freaked me out! The lifelike security guard sculpture was so realistic that I actually ignored him when I first entered this exhibit room, thinking he was real. Previously, I mentioned the abundance of security personnel throughout the Vero Beach Museum of Art, so I thought this guy was one of them. It wasn’t until I seen hubby checking him out that I realized he was part of the exhibit. And even then, I very slowly walked up to him. Call me skeptical, but I’ve seen too many Disney human statutes that pose motionless for extended periods of time. I was expecting him to jump up and scare me at any moment! By the way… the name on his name tag was Art. How appropriate. He sure is a work of art!
Medieval to Metal: The Art & Evolution of the GUITAR
Medieval To Metal: The Art & Evolution Of The GUITAR
Medieval to Metal is a touring Exhibition of The National GUITAR Museum. It traces the history and design of the world’s most popular musical instrument — from ouds and lutes to classical acoustic and modern electric. The exhibit included a nice variety of 40 historic instruments, along with illustrations and photographs of well-known guitar players of the last 100 years.
“The guitar has been a signature element of world culture for more than 500 years.”
— Harvey Newquist, Executive Director of the National Guitar Museum
A few of my favorites from the guitar exhibit:
- The eye-catching angles, sharp points, and sweeping curves of the candy apple red Warlock Guitar. This one was made from acrylic and was popular with hard rock and metal guitarists as it produced loud, forceful, in-your-face music. It was used by artists like Paul Stanley of KISS, Kerry King of Slayer, Lita Ford, and members of Motley Crue.
- The Godwin Guitar Organ was fascinating with its 19 switches and 13 knobs, the most ever applied to a guitar body! This instrument could be played as a guitar, organ, or both simultaneously.
- The Italian-made EKO 700 was a visually arresting instrument with its dramatic curves, gold sparkle paint, large swaths of chrome, and more buttons than American guitars.
- The Rickenbacker 360/12 12-String was made famous by George Harrison of The Beatles when he played one in the film “A Hard Day’s Night.” The quasi-psychedelic sound of the 360/12 became synonymous with folk-rock in the 1960s.
- The Gretsch Chet Atkins 6122 Country Gentleman with its dark wood finish is the signature guitar of one of Nashville’s greatest pickers. The Chet Atkins Line was started in 1958 and remains a staple of the company’s offerings today.
- The image of The Gibson Flying V has become one of the primary symbols of the electric guitar, used as a generic representation for Rock ‘n Roll in everything from television commercials to clothes. In fact, the world’s largest guitar is a 43.5 foot long replica of the Gibson Flying V.
- The “Crossroads” Guitar was commissioned to represent one of the oldest myths surrounding the guitar. Legend has it that great pioneering blues guitarists who worked their way across the southern United States would cut a deal with the devil. If they sold their soul to the devil he would grant them fame and fortune as rock stars for the rest of their life. Upon death, payment to the devil becomes due… the guitarist would accompany him to Hell! The carvings on this instrument are images of guitars, guitarists, graveyards, and demons.
Guitar Exhibition at Vero Beach Museum of Art
History of the Guitar
Guitar Exhibit at Vero Beach Museum of Art
Vero Beach Museum of Art Sculpture Garden
I love sculpture gardens. The fact that Vero Beach Museum of Art has a generously sized one certainly influenced my decision to visit. And I was not disappointed! The monumental sculptures are perfectly placed throughout a beautiful landscape of flowering trees, perennials, towering palms, and garden paths with benches for relaxation or meditation. In Florida’s cooler spring months the Museum hosts Concerts in the Park that attract more than 200 visitors each concert. Guests can listen to smooth jazz and soulful renditions while in a unique visual arts environment.
Sculpture Garden at Vero Beach Museum of Art:
Bronze and Cor-ten Steel Sculpture by Dutch Sculptor Hanneke Beaumont
Vero Beach Museum of Art Sculpture Garden
Children’s Art Zone at the Museum
The Vero Beach Museum of Art is not just for adults. They love to see children come through their doors as well. The brand new Art Zone is proof of that. On January 24, 2018 the Museum celebrated the grand opening of the interactive children’s space, after nearly 18 months in the making.
The Art Zone is a great way for families to explore art together. It features hands-on activities from floor to ceiling, and encourages kids to use all five senses as they play and explore. The Art Zone includes ten different play areas including magnetic and chalkboard walls, a giant puzzle floor, a ceiling comprised of the major constellations, a puppet theatre, a gallery wall, and an interactive projector wall. As I peeked inside the Art Zone, I could tell the children also love the white modular furniture cubes, which can be turned and shifted to create tables, chairs, tunnels, and cozy little reading nooks. My favorite part was the 25-foot-long interactive Sketch Aquarium. It was so realistic that young children must think they are actually swimming amongst the various sea life.
As attendance in family programs has tripled in the last several years, it was imperative the Museum construct a family friendly space for kids to connect with art., and they most certainly succeeded. As I stood in awe of this awesome haven for kids, looking up at the dazzling starry night ceiling, a toddler boy approached me with a musical instrument. He said, “You hold.” As I received his instrument he said, “You play.” Doing my best, I noticed he was smiling from ear to ear. Then this cute kid said, “You sing!” Having a young grandson of my own, I’m known to do almost anything to make a child happy. But sing, in public? Uh, no!
As I exited the Art Zone, I couldn’t help thinking that I will likely be seeing this little boy’s creativity on display in the Museum’s Eggert Children’s Gallery in a few years. An entire section of the Vero Beach Museum of Art features exhibitions of student artwork from schools and organizations serving K-12.
Children’s Art Zone at Vero Beach Museum of Art
VBMA Children’s Art Gallery
VBMA: Middle School Best In Show
In Conclusion…
Sometimes, little can be much, when done right. For a small museum the Vero Beach Museum of Art is pretty impressive. It’s in a lovely setting, they have a great selection of artwork, and the traveling exhibitions are top-notch. The Museum includes indoor and outdoor exhibits, including the outstanding sculpture garden. Plan to spend 60-90 minutes here, and grab a coffee or light lunch at The Museum Café by Wood ‘n Spoon located in the Museum atrium (11am – 2:30pm, closed Sunday’s). And don’t leave without visiting the Museum Gift Shop where the offerings are well chosen, whether for personal pleasure or to give as a special occasion or hostess gift.
For art and design lovers, I highly recommend VBMA, especially if you’re passing through Florida’s Treasure Coast. For hubby and I it was time well spent in this little town and a very positive experience.
***NOTE: If you’re an art enthusiast who lives in the Vero Beach vicinity, the VBMA offers adult and children’s art classes in a variety of mediums. The Summer Art Camp is a popular option. You’ll also want to consider a Vero Beach Museum of Art Membership, with flexible plans starting at just $45.
Vero Beach Museum of Art Hours:
Monday – Saturday 10:00am to 4:30pm • Sundays 1:00pm to 4:30pm • Closed Mondays from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Vero Beach Museum of Art Address and Phone:
3001 Riverside Park Drive
Vero Beach, FL 32963
Phone (772) 231-0707
Toothsome Chocolate Emporium: The Backstory
Universal Studios Resort in Orlando Florida has added yet another intriguing eatery to restaurant row on its famed CityWalk. The full name (although lengthy and difficult to remember) is Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and Savory Feast Kitchen, but most people simply refer to it as the Chocolate Emporium, the Chocolate Restaurant, or even the Chocolate Factory. Call it what you want, but hope that its creator, the fictional Professor Doctor Penelope Tibeaux-Tinker Toothsome, won’t be offended by your utterly informal attitude that entirely eliminates her name.
In case you’re interested, here’s the backstory of this chocolate-themed restaurant from Universal’s official website page:
“From the Alps to the empire of the Aztecs, from Mongolia to Madagascar, Professor Doctor Penelope Tibeaux-Tinker Toothsome learned new and fascinating methods of infusing chocolate into the most extraordinary recipes, making friends and receiving honors everywhere she went. Upon returning home to London, Penelope determined that she would share her love and knowledge of chocolate with the world. She set about building The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen, an enchanting 19th century themed, Steampunk inspired dining establishment with a façade of towering smokestacks and an interior adorned with intriguing gadgets and gizmos.”
Toothsome’s Whimsical Steampunk-inspired Decor
The above description from Universal Studios Orlando not only gives the story behind this unique chocolate-lovers restaurant but also a glimpse into what kind of atmosphere to expect. The whimsical bi-level space is very family friendly with a fun loud atmosphere. The visual concept of the building, both inside and out, is definitely worth a look. The impressive towering black and gold smokestacks can be seen a mile away (or so it seems) and draws curious minds to investigate this unique table-service restaurant. The interior is a Victorian-era, Steampunk-inspired chocolate factory. Just inside the front entrance you’ll see the Chocolate Emporium’s signature decorations — pipes, gears, and cocoa beans rotating inside a clear tube.
As you can imagine, the sweet aroma of chocolate permeates the building. On the righthand side is a gift shop and confectionary store. Chocolate goodies abound here. You’ll find chocolate-covered pretzels, chocolate candy bars, chocolate-coated milkshake straws, and a yummy display of filled chocolates. Some of the non-chocolate offerings were colorful cotton candy, gourmet jelly beans, and candy powder. If you’re in need of a souvenir there’s also Toothsome shirts, mugs, and various Steampunk-inspired merchandise.
In the bakery display case you’ll see all kinds of decadent desserts — everything from macaroons to neapolitans to eclairs to chocolate mousse, and much more. Opposite the gift shop is a quick-service counter where non-dining guests can order Toothsome’s signature [and enormous] handcrafted milkshakes and super-sized sundaes. After all, the gigantic desserts are the main attraction at the Chocolate Emporium. They are the number one reason people visit this restaurant. The desserts are all oversized twists on classic favorites like Key Lime Pie, Strawberry Cheesecake, and Red Velvet. You can check out a sampling of the Chocolate Emporium dessert menu and prices here. It’s also a lot of fun watching the artisanal milkshakes and scrumptious desserts being made in the exhibition kitchen.
TIP: When ordering milkshakes… ask for the cake, cupcake, or cookies that are placed on top to come “on the side.” They will put them in a separate container for you to save for later — kind of like getting two desserts out of one!
TIP: When finished with your milkshake, ask for the plastic mason jar to be washed out (or rinse it yourself in the restroom). Trust me, the cost of this little “souvenir” has been built into your milkshake, priced at $16-$18.
And of course, the overall experience at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium is enhanced by the presence of the two main characters, Professor Penelope and her sidekick robot, Jacques. They can be seen roaming the restaurant and visiting guests at their tables.
Kids Love Professor Penelope and Her Sidekick Robot Jacques
We went to Toothsome Chocolate Emporium for dinner to celebrate our grandson’s 4th birthday — he LOVES chocolate… and robots! In fact, his favorite part of the evening was meeting Jacques the robot on his way to the restroom. It was a great photo opportunity. He spent the remainder of the meal hoping Jacques would make his way back to our table, but we never seen him after the initial encounter. Professor Penelope, however, did stop by our table as we were awaiting our desserts. She took tons of time conversing with our birthday boy, and we appreciated the engaging visit.
No Reservations and Slow Service at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium
We had dinner at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium on a Friday evening. To our disappointment, this Universal Studios restaurant does not take reservations (although some restaurants at CityWalk do). During peak restaurant hours the average wait time is somewhere around 90 minutes, and waiting 2 hours for a table is not unusual. But a very long wait was not an option for us, since our party included an active 4-year-old little boy. When we called Universal we were advised to come early, by 5:00 PM, in order to avoid a long wait. This too, was disappointing, since Universal Orlando offers FREE self-parking in their garages after 6:00 PM, a savings of at least $22.
UPDATE: Since our visit to Toothsome Chocolate Emporium, it’s my understanding they now accept reservations! That’s a huge convenience factor we didn’t have. (Reservations: (407) 224-3663)
We arrived at the Chocolate Emporium shortly after 5:00, and our party of 6 was seated immediately, upstairs. In the elevator, we encountered a male server carrying a tray of desserts to guests dining on the second floor of the restaurant (see photo below). I was too busy drooling over the creative concoctions and getting permission to photograph them, that I never questioned the “food safety” element. I have never been to a restaurant where food items are delivered this way… on a public elevator with people [potentially] coughing and sneezing in that small enclosed space. (Just seems a bit unclean to have all those germs hovering around my food. I would be much happier with a dedicated food-service elevator for the wait staff.)
Upon being seated our server was friendly and initially service was attentive. But, as the level of busyness increased the service decreased. By the time we ordered dessert the restaurant seemed to be at capacity, and we waited a very long time to receive our dessert order. Considering that dessert is the star of the show at Toothsome Chocolate Factory, one would think they would find a way to decrease the wait time. Our saving grace was that we were not in a hurry and I continued to enjoy the company of my grandson, the birthday boy.
TIP: You can request to sit on the outdoor shaded patio, where it is less noisy and sometimes a shorter wait.
TIP: If no tables in the dining rooms, ask to go upstairs to the bar area. (If you don’t mind eating there!)
At Toothsome Chocolate Emporium Chocolate is King!
The restaurant has a fairly large menu with a wide range of [mostly] American fare, including some vegetarian and gluten-free choices. No matter what your taste, you can probably find something here. At Universal’s Toothsome Chocolate Emporium chocolate is king! In fact, chocolate is creatively incorporated with many of the food and drink items, even outside of dessert. For example, chocolate-y libations include Old Chocolate Fashion and Chocolate Cherry Mule. One person in our group ordered the Too Chocolate Stout, a dark beer with just the right amount of chocolate, according to her. Our server was nice enough to offer a sample before committing to this chocolatey brew. (I noticed that even some of the cocktails were served with a piece of cake or dessert on the rim instead of the typical garnish.) Here’s a sample drink menu from the Chocolate Emporium.
Chocolate-infused appetizers include Warm Chocolate Almond Bread, Pork Belly Sliders with Chocolate Dipped Bacon, or Coffee and Chocolate Stout Chicken Wings. For entrees that include the [bitter] sweet and savory taste of chocolate you can choose the Gnocchi with Mole Cream Sauce, or the Braised Short Rib with Cocoa Gremolata. And then there’s the handcrafted milkshakes, sundaes, and pastry desserts with no shortage of chocolate choices!
Chocolate Emporium Food Quality
Our party of six shared three different appetizers: Avocado Bruschetta, Baked Brie En Croute, and Crab and Artichoke Dip. The portions were great for sharing and we loved all of them. Hubby and I, however, were not crazy about the taste and quality of our entrees. The other three adults in our party seemed to like their choices. Hubby’s Braised Short Rib was dry and overcooked, and the Cocoa Gremolata did not do justice to the dish. I’m a salmon freak and order it often, but unfortunately my Grilled Teriyaki Salmon had a strong “fishy” taste, and the accompanying Asian Inspired Vegetables were very hard. I like my veggies al dente, but these were barely cooked. I brought them home, but they ended up in the garbage. The Classic Sole Amandine and Toothsome Signature Beef Filet Mignon Oscar were both very good according to my grandson’s parents.
And then it was time for the main event… DESSERT! Everyone ordered their own, with the exception of hubby and I who shared one. The presentation of each one was beautiful, creative, and humongous… picture perfect, actually. They certainly will satisfy anyone’s sweet tooth cravings. The taste, unfortunately, was just average. For me, dessert was a major let down considering all the hype associated with the sweet treats. After all, dessert is what people come to the Chocolate Emporium for. Personally, I would have preferred a smaller portion and higher quality. For example: the flan in our Salted Caramel Flan Sundae did not taste like flan at all! The texture and taste was more like caramel-flavored cheesecake. Once again, dessert was good, but not excellent.
TIP: I highly recommend sharing a dessert, both because of size and to avoid disappointment in the quality and taste.
In Conclusion…
My grandson really enjoyed his birthday dinner at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium, which was the whole purpose of dining here. It’s a fun, quirky atmosphere that kids seem to like. And if you have noisy children, well that’s okay too, as the noise level can be quite high. Portions are large and desserts are outrageously humongous, but many food items were lacking in quality. For me, the Chocolate Emporium would be more of a dessert spot, not a dinner destination. There are so many better choices, even at Universal CityWalk.
Here’s a list of pros and cons to recap our dining experience at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium.
PROS:
- Receive free parking at Universal’s garage if dining after 6:00 PM
- The building looks impressive and the Steampunk fantasy, Wonka-style decor is worth a peek
- Most desserts are actually too much for one person (especially after a meal), therefore, if shared they’re a better value
- During your wait, linger in the gift shop or watch the sweet treats being made
- Playful atmosphere — children love Professor Penelope and her sidekick robot Jacques
- A must-try for the chocoholic in your family!
- Walk off all those calories at Universal’s CityWalk Entertainment Complex
CONS:
- Chocolate Emporium is a long walk from Universal’s parking garage (it’s located just before the entrance to Islands of Adventure)
- Very long wait times — 1 1/2 to 2 hours during peak times (if no reservations)
- Slow customer service during busiest hours
- Milkshakes are thin, not creamy and thick — more of a milk taste than ice cream (Cowfish at CityWalk has great milkshakes!)
- Overall, food quality was just mediocre and somewhat disappointing, with the exception of the appetizers
- People have reported difficulty (impossible) to maneuver to elevator with a wheelchair (hearsay, but worth noting)
- Moderately high prices (just like most Central Florida theme park areas)
- Desserts (food) brought up to the 2nd floor via a public elevator (a big YUCK for me!)
I do wish I could have given a more positive review for this restaurant. But unfortunately, the most recent Tripadvisor reviews are quite similar to my experience.
Toothsome Chocolate Emporium Hours & Contact Info
Hours Of Operation
Sunday – Thursday: 10:30 am – midnight
Friday – Saturday: 10:30 am – 1:00 am
Reservations:
(407) 224-3663
QUESTION: Have you been to Toothsome Chocolate Emporium at Universal CityWalk? What was your dining experience? Please share in the comment box below, our readers would love to know!
Can’t get enough chocolate?
Here’s another sweet treat worth checking out for the chocoholic in your family!
Review & Photos: Chocolate Museum & Cafe in Orlando Florida
Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival 25th Anniversary
Epcot Flower & Garden Festival Celebrates 25 Years of Brilliant Blooms
Wow… one of my favorite Walt Disney World events is celebrating 25 years of incredible horticultural genius. The 2018 annual Epcot Flower and Garden Festival runs daily from February 28 through May 28. That’s three whole months of amazing botanical color and creativity, Disney style.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a gardening expert, novice, or wannabe-green-thumb, you’ll appreciate the brightly colored blossoming beauties. For me, there’s no better way to welcome spring than treating myself to the brilliant displays and outdoor experiences found at the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. For the past 25 years I’ve attended nearly every one of the Festivals, and honestly, they never grow old with me.
With so many fun-filled things to do at the Flower and Garden Festival, Epcot at this time of year is the perfect Disney destination for every member of the family. Whether you’re snapping a selfie with a Disney Character Topiary (remember, no selfie sticks allowed in the Disney theme parks!), sampling savory small plates from one of 15 Outdoor Kitchens, having a blast from the past at a concert during the Garden Rocks Concert Series (Fridays – Mondays), or trying to get the kids to leave the interactive Play Gardens, you’ll have a blockbuster time exploring all that this popular springtime Festival has to offer.
Disney Flower & Garden Festival 25th Anniversary
What’s New at the 2018 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival
When something lasts a quarter-of-a-century, you know they’re doing it up right! The Epcot Flower & Garden Festival is 25 years old because it’s pretty spectacular. Disney doesn’t waste its time with duds! As a long-time attendee, I do wish Disney would make a few improvements, but that’s just my opinion. I realize not everyone is a return guest, year after year. In fact, every year I meet tourists and locals who are attending the Flower & Garden Festival for the first time. But whether this is your first dance with Disney or your 25th go-around, highlighting what’s new may help you schedule your day at Epcot a little better. Here are the additions to the 2018 Flower and Garden Festival…
-
- The How-to Garden: an area which gives ideas on fun ways to create a backyard garden at home. You’ll learn how to create your own butterfly house and other garden crafts by re-purposing old materials you already have around the house. Recycling never looked so good! You’ll leave this garden inspired and ready to create your own botanical masterpiece.
NOTE:
Walt Disney World is a supporter of the Million Pollinator Garden Challenge. It’s a new campaign to register a million public and private gardens and landscapes that support pollinators. Pollinators are declining and they need our help to survive. If you’re interested in creating pollinator-friendly gardens that will help revive the health of bees, birds, butterflies, and other pollinators, you can check out the Disney-supported challenge here, as well as register your own garden to be counted.
-
- Imagination Play Garden: a lively playground where curious minds can play and roam. It’s for children of all ages, with a separate area for kids ages 5-12. With unique things to climb, tubes to crawl through, and musical instruments to play, it’s a great place for kids to rid themselves of excess energy — and for mom and dad to rest! (This area closes at dusk.)
- The Honey Bee-stro: this new area is hosted by the National Honey Board. It’s part outdoor kitchen and part educational crash-course on honey. For example, you’ll learn the difference between clover, orange blossom, and buckwheat honey, and how the honey is harvested. You can follow the honey bee on a journey to discover what it takes to create one of nature’s sweetest creations — from their hives to your table.
FYI:
Did you know almost 1/3 of everything we eat is created with the help of pollinators like bees?
-
- Spike’s Pollen Nation Exploration: a scavenger hunt where kids (big-kids too!) follow Spike the Bee on his pollination trail around World Showcase, where he’ll be busy collecting nectar and pollinating gardens at Epcot, then receive a prize. There is an extra cost of $5.99+tax for this. You must purchase your map and stickers at Port of Entry.
The Honey Bee-stro at Epcot Flower & Garden Festival
Fun is Always Blooming at Epcot Flower and Garden Festival!
In addition to the new features at the 2018 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival, there’s plenty of returning favorites. In fact, there’s so many things to see and do, you’ll likely need multiple visits to experience it all. Here are a few of the especially popular ones…
-
- The Goodness Garden Butterfly House: this up-close garden features a beautiful enclosed area with a nursery where cocoons are turning into butterflies, right before your eyes! You’ll discover the benefits of butterflies as you’re surrounded by 1000 native butterflies that represent up to 10 butterfly species. Hold out your hand, have your camera ready… one is almost certain to land! Plan to spend at least 10-15 minutes in here watching the butterflies and taking photos. (The butterfly house closes at dusk.)
-
- Garden Rocks Concert Series: soak up the sounds of chart-topping musical acts at Epcot’s outdoor waterfront venue. Popular artists play at the America Gardens Theatre, Fridays – Mondays, at 5:30PM, 6:45PM, and 8:00PM. If you love the classics from the 50s – 90s like I do, you’ll find yourself tapping your feet to some of the hottest throwback beats of yesteryear — artists like Starship, Little River Band, Rick Springfield, Village People, The Guess Who, Herman’s Hermits, and The Spinners, to name a few. Check out the 2018 Concert Performance Schedule here. The concerts are included with your Epcot admission, but if your wallet allows, add a Garden Rocks Concert Series Dining Package and get guaranteed preferred seating for the concerts. Call 407-WDW-DINE for details and availability.
-
- Outdoor Kitchens: there are 15 different outdoor kitchens at the Flower and Garden Festival this year. As previously mentioned, one is new — The Honey Bee-stro. The appetizer-sized small-plates are a great way to sample a wide variety of delicious main dishes, delectable desserts, and specialty sips. The food kiosks are strategically placed throughout World Showcase and offer these farm-to-table favorites for about $4 – $8 each. They’re not cheap, but I love eating this way — small portions spread out over a timespan of several hours while meandering around World Showcase Lagoon. Hubby and I had 10 food items combined and one bottled water to share (no alcoholic drinks) for $59.31. There are vegetarian, gluten-free, and kid-approved choices available. (I’ve included the food photos below.)
-
- Topiaries: discover living topiaries inspired by beloved classic Disney characters, princesses, and other popular characters. There are 23 different vignettes at the 2018 Flower & Garden Festival, each featuring a different group of one-of-a-kind living sculptures shaped like your child’s favorite Disney characters. Here’s a full list of this year’s topiaries. The topiaries are a favorite of mine, although Disney has been using the same ones year after year. Sometimes they get moved to a different location, but they’re the same Disney characters. There were no new ones in 2018, not even to commemorate the 25th anniversary (other than the welcome display at the main entrance which gets a makeover every year). With all Disney’s resources and talented crew of horticulturists, is it asking too much for a new topiary to be introduced each year? I didn’t even photograph the topiaries this year, they’re the same as my photos from decades ago. (One of the few complaints I have regarding the Flower and Garden Festival.) Click here for a photo tour of the Disney topiaries from a previous FloridaFunAndFork article.
-
- Tours: there are several tours to choose from, including Gardens of the World, English Tea Garden, Royal Tea Garden and Behind the Seeds, all for an additional fee. There is also a free Self-guided Tea Tour. Tour pricing and reservations can be found here.
-
- Egg-stravaganza: the popular scavenger Easter Egg Hunt returns on March 16, for a limited time. Once you find all the Disney-themed character eggs, return your completed map to Disney Traders for a special surprise. There is a $5.99 fee for this. Purchase your map and stickers at Port of Entry.
Outstanding Colorful Blooms at Epcot Flower & Garden Festival
Epcot – A Collage of Color During Flower and Garden Festival
Vibrant Color Everywhere at Epcot Flower & Garden Festival
Most activities at the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival are included with admission to Epcot (except as noted above), leaving you a few extra bucks for Festival merchandise. There are at least six special shops set up to sell official Flower & Garden merchandise. Certainly, you’ll want to commemorate your visit to the 25th Annual Flower and Garden Festival with a souvenir or collector’s item.
As always, Disney Annual Passholders will find items created just for them, and don’t forget to use your Passholder discount! If you’re a local and have not yet purchased your annual pass, this article from FloridaFunAndFork is a must read. It’s a comprehensive review of a special type of pass for Florida residents, called the Disney Weekday Select Annual Pass. It’s the type of pass I use, and one of the absolute best values you will find at Walt Disney World!
Additional information on Epcot Flower and Garden Festival such as hours, ticket prices, and maps, can be accessed here. And don’t forget to pick up a 2018 Garden Passport at any of the outdoor kitchens around World Showcase. Or, get a head start and download your free copy here. It contains valuable information about the Festival, including a full menu listing every food and beverage item available.
In Conclusion…
Who says Florida doesn’t have a real “spring” season? For me, (and millions of other Disney fans) it officially starts on the first day of Epcot’s Flower and Garden Festival, not the first day of spring on the calendar. I look forward to the vibrant colors and sweet smells of the 30+ million blossoming blooms the Disney horticulturists put on display each year. I was expecting the Festival to be outstanding and really special in 2018, as the Flower and Garden Festival celebrates its 25th anniversary. In that regard, Disney didn’t deliver! I anticipated Disney would go above-and-beyond, given the milestone 25th anniversary.
I was disappointed to find no new topiaries (most were even in the same location as last year), and I could barely find any signage indicating the landmark 25th anniversary. If you’re not looking hard, you may even miss the small anniversary sign in the main entrance topiary display. Also, there was no Festival Center this year, as many Disney guests look forward to the flower and garden seminars and activity demonstrations. In the past, Disney would bring in garden experts from HGTV and other celebrity gardeners.
Obviously, if you’re a first-time Epcot Flower and Garden Festival attendee, you won’t miss what you’ve never had. It’s definitely worth a visit for you. But for Disney Passholders and frequent visitors, the lack of anything new could be disappointing. If you don’t set your expectations too high, you will enjoy the themed gardens, Disney character topiaries, rock concerts, engaging tours, and savory seasonal outdoor kitchens just like you have any other year. After all, Epcot’s Flower and Garden Festival is one of Walt Disney World’s longest and oldest celebrations for a good reason!
NOTE: Epcot Flower and Garden Festival dates are February 28-May 28, 2018. But whether you chose to visit in the beginning, middle, or end of the Festival, you don’t have to worry about seeing a bunch of wilted flowers. Midway through the Festival, Disney gardeners remove the early spring blossoms and plant a whole new crop of flowers that flourish in Florida’s late-spring’s warmer temperatures.
EPCOT FLOWER AND GARDEN FESTIVAL STATISTICS…
30 million blooms
200+ floating flower planters
40 flower towers
500+ container gardens in pots, barrels, and urns
nearly 100 Disney character topiaries
1,000 beautiful butterflies and 10 species
It takes more than one year and 400 Walt Disney World horticulturists to prepare for the 90-day Flower and Garden Festival!
QUESTION: Have you visited the 25th Annual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival? Please share your thoughts in the comment box below — our readers would love to know! Or, perhaps you have a question about the event. I’ll try my best to answer it!
UPDATE TO THIS ARTICLE:
As of October 2018, Solivita is no longer owned by AV Homes (Avatar), it has been sold to Taylor Morrison.
Award-winning Solivita in Poinciana — My Home for 23 Years
Solivita has been my home for the past 23 years. I was one of the very first residents of the award-winning retirement community in Central Florida. Solivita sold its first home in May of 2000, and I purchased in October of that same year. I was resident number 84.
Because I’ve been in the over-55 community of Solivita from the beginning, I’ve had a bird’s eye view of the substantial growth. Over the years, many things have changed. Some I have embraced, some not so much. I have watched new neighbors come, and some really nice next-door neighbors go.
So, what do I really think of this gated 55-plus retirement community in Poinciana, Florida? Read on, and I’ll share the good, the bad, and the ugly details of my life as a Solivita homeowner.
Solivita Home Designs: A Nice Variety of Floor Plans
When I relocated from Pennsylvania to Florida 21 years ago, I visited many places, looking for the perfect community to call home. Hubby did a job transfer, and with his new office being in Winter Park, we searched for homes in the greater Orlando area. We didn’t set out to live in a 55+ active adult community, but after touring Solivita, we both agreed it was the nicest community we had seen.
The homes were beautiful, with most having a spacious open floor plan, with lots of windows and sliding glass doors to enjoy the Florida sunshine. In my new Florida home, I wanted to bring the outdoors in. I couldn’t wait to watch the palm trees swaying in the sub-tropical Florida breeze; I was tired of snow and ice covered barren branches. The word Solivita itself means ‘sun’ and ‘life.’ Life in the Sun… that’s exactly what I wanted!
The vast majority of the homes in Solivita (both then and now) are single-family, between 1,000 and 3,000 square feet, ranging in price from the high $100s — low $500s. Here’s a link to the current Solivita new-home designs, floor plans, and pricing. Or, you can check out a listing of ALL the homes available for sale in Solivita here.
We chose the Carnegie modal, at 2,066 square feet. Our model is no longer being built, but it’s been doing fantastic on the resale market. The builder, AV Homes (formerly known as Avatar Homes), has since built a very limited number of multi-family townhome-style units. There are also a few duplex homes in the original Rainbow Lakes section of Solivita. As outlined in the Master Plan, the build-out will have approximately 6,000+ homes within 4,300 acres. Yeah, it’s quite a large development. In fact, when complete, Solivita will be three times as big as my tiny Pennsylvania hometown.
Where is Solivita Located?
Solivita is in the unincorporated town of Poinciana, Florida, in Polk County. (Part of Poinciana is in Osceola County.) Poinciana is one of the largest master-planned communities in the nation. Poinciana had 20,000 people when I moved here, but the population has escalated to over 80,000. Obviously, that kind of population growth has brought traffic headaches with it — one of the downsides to living in Poinciana. But really, most all of Central Florida requires a double dose of patience when traveling the highways and byways.
Solivita lies southwest of Kissimmee, Florida — a favorite destination of tourists visiting Walt Disney World and other Central Florida theme parks and attractions. We are less than 40 minutes from Disney, the vacation capital of the world. And, in fact, many Solivita residents work at Disney (mostly part-time, more for the awesome Disney perks than the skimpy paychecks). I’m a huge fan of the Disney Parks, and one of the first things I did as a Solivita resident was purchase my Disney Annual Pass. (Did you know Disney has special deals for Florida residents? You can read the review of my low-cost Disney Pass here.)
When it comes to our mailing address, don’t get confused. We can use either Poinciana or Kissimmee as our city, along with the street address. Both are correct. The zip code in Solivita is 34759, (although some sections of Poinciana is 34758). Because Solivita is centrally located in Florida, within an hour or two you can have the sand between your toes at the Atlantic Ocean beaches or, my favorite, the internationally acclaimed beaches of the Gulf of Mexico (Marco Island, Naples, and Sanibel Island are my favorite getaway destinations).
Solivita in Poinciana: A Multi-Cultural Community
The demographics of Solivita reflect the multi-cultural nature of Poinciana. Nationalities from all over the world are represented here. It doesn’t matter what your race or ethnicity is, there is likely a group or club that meets on a regular basis to celebrate your culture and heritage. I love the multi-cultural aspect of Solivita. I don’t want to live where everyone looks just like me. There’s a little saying I have that goes like this… “If you and I were exactly alike, God wouldn’t need one of us!”
Here’s a very small sampling of some Solivita Clubs that embrace cultural differences:
- African Heritage Cultural Club
- British Isles Heritage Club
- Canadian Club of Solivita
- Caribbean American Association
- Filipinos at Solivita
- Hispanic Heritage & Cultural Club
- Korean Friends of Solivita
- The India Club of Solivita
Solivita Amenities and Services
The active adult community of Solivita has nearly 150,000 square feet of amenities.
At the very heart of Solivita is The Village Town Center with its numerous shops. Inside the 16,000 square foot Waterfront Galleries is a two-story art and ceramics studio, fully stocked library, multiple computer stations, and game room. Right across the brick-lined street is the 32,000 square foot Riviera Spa and Fitness Center which includes an indoor heated pool, an outdoor heated resort-style pool, two whirlpool spas, a sauna, an indoor track, and dance studio. Also, specially trained fitness coaches are on-site daily (free of charge) at the state-of-the-art fitness center, complete with TRX equipment. *NOTE: This amenity complex received the 2017 NAHB Best of 55+ Housing Silver Award for Best Outdoor Lifestyle Amenity.
The Starlite Ballroom at the Village Town Center is a 17,000 square foot facility where Solivita residents can gather for entertainment events, dances and concerts, theater performances, weekly movies, and various parties and banquets.
One of the newer additions to Solivita’s Village Town Center is a hometown pharmacy, K & M Drugs, with a small convenience store. This place gets rave reviews by the residents of Solivita who no longer have to wait in long pharmacy lines at places like Walmart, CVS, and Walgreens. Not having to go outside the Solivita gates when you’re not feeling well is a definite plus. And the pharmacists themselves are among the most helpful you will ever meet.
Another resort-style complex within Solivita is The Palms. It has 19,000 square feet of space housing a fitness center, aerobics studio, business center, a member’s club room, a 4,000 square foot heated outdoor lap and splash pool, two heated spas, fireplace piazza, and social gathering deck.
In Solivita’s Freedom Park there are five lighted Har-Tru tennis courts, 11 lighted pickleball courts, four bocce ball courts, a championship-caliber softball diamond, five horseshoe pits, and an outdoor pavilion for private events. Right aside of the pavilion is a children’s playground for visiting grandchildren, which I use often. And one of the most popular recent additions to the Solivita amenities is the dog park. Did I mention how pet-friendly Solivita is? On top of that, throughout the Solivita neighborhoods are three Resident Clubs and eight neighborhood pools, one just a short block from my home.
Solivita has three dining options — The Stonegate Grille (overlooks the finishing holes of the Stonegate Golf Club), Mosaics Restaurant (open seasonally, otherwise mostly used for banquets and club events), and The Bistro (quick-service foods like salads and pizza). The restaurant hours and menus can be accessed here.
For those of us that like to ride bikes, there is a scenic 5-mile path. (Check out my review of the Huffy Deluxe Women’s Cruiser Bike that I ride in Solivita.)
Additionally, Solivita residents have access to two semi-private 18-hole championship golf courses via the on-site Stonegate Golf Club & Pro Shop — The Oaks Course and The Cypress Course. Membership for Solivita residents is optional. Stonegate Golf Club membership requests, course information, and tee times can be found via the Stonegate Golf Club website.
It’s hard to find another over-55 community in Central Florida that offers a more complete list of luxury amenities and services than Solivita. This upscale housing development for seniors has everything for the ultimate active adult lifestyle!
NOTEWORTHY: Poinciana Medical Center, a four-story, 177,000 square foot hospital with 76 private beds and a six-bed private ICU is right across the street from Solivita’s main gate on Cypress Parkway. The medical facility’s close proximity brings tremendous peace of mind to Solivita’s active adults.
SOLIVITA
Named one of the nation’s Top 50 master-planned 55-plus communities by Where to Retire magazine three consecutive times, and to ideal-LIVING magazine’s Best of the Best list in 2017 & 2018!
Solivita Social Clubs
Whether you’re a social butterfly with an outgoing personality that thrives on socializing 24/7 or simply looking for an occasional get-together, Solivita clubs offer something for everyone. We have over 200 social clubs created by Solivita residents themselves. And, guess what? If you can’t find a club that suits your fancy, create your own! Yep, it’s that easy (with approval, of course). But I’m guessing there’s at least one that piques your interest!
Florida Wildlife Abounds Within Solivita
Large chunks of Solivita’s 4,300 acres has been kept in its natural state, and designated as preservation areas. With the continual and ongoing construction you would think most of the native Floridian wildlife would have died off or moved on. Not so! Shortly after moving to Solivita 21 years ago, I witnessed a Florida Panther sitting upright like a statue, very close to my front door. It was the first Florida Panther I had seen in its natural habitat. At first, I didn’t even realize what is was, as these “big cats” are so rare. My only regret is that I didn’t have my camera in hand to photograph it. By the time I yelled for hubby to come, he was gone. I have never seen another Panther in Solivita.
But, within the miles of green spaces, shade trees, and shimmering ponds, I have seen tons of other really cool critters. It’s not unusual to see armadillos, raccoons, possums, wild turkey, deer, wild boar, otters, owls, osprey, hawks, and sandhill cranes. Oh gosh, and you should see the gorgeous [and oftentimes] unique birds. If you’re really into bird watching, the Solivita Bird Club is a must-join for you!
It goes without saying that alligator sightings happen on a daily basis. Just the other day, I saw a baby gator crossing the road and doing the mosey up a neighbor’s driveway. Some Solivita residents have been shocked to discover gators in their garages (never keep your door open with your garage unattended) and occasionally on their front porch or backyard lanai. I used to be scared of alligators, but I’ve come to realize if I give them their space and don’t provoke or feed them, we can live together peacefully.
Most times, the wildlife that call Solivita home do not cause problems for us humans. But, if we encounter an unfriendly or rebellious member of the animal kingdom (I’m thinking poisonous snake right now), a helpful neighbor is usually just a phone call (or loud scream) away.
There’s such a wide array of wildlife in Solivita that I rarely go outside without my camera. You, too, will appreciate all there is to explore in the great Solivita outdoors!
The Negatives of Life in Solivita
Many Solivita residents call this award-winning 55+ retirement community “paradise!” And, granted, there are some aspects of this gorgeous locale that make you feel as if you’re living in a 5-star resort. Personally, I liked it much better when it was smaller. But since I was well aware of the expansion plans by AV Homes I can’t complain. I have a nagging sense of disgruntlement, though, about a few things. Here’s the “ugly” part about life in Solivita…
Not Enough Golf Cart Paths
As mentioned, Solivita is a golf cart friendly community. I don’t play golf, nor do I own a golf cart. However, those that do are becoming increasingly aggravated by the fact there are not golf cart paths throughout the entire Solivita community. They say being forced to drive their golf carts on the Solivita roads create an unsafe environment for both motorists and golf cart drivers. To date, there hasn’t been any “major” accidents involving golf carts, but plenty of near misses resulting in obscene gestures and filthy foul language being tossed around.
Solivita Nextdoor
Solivita residents have the option of participating in our own neighborhood private social network called “Nextdoor.” (If you’re not familiar with it, Nextdoor is now being used in over 100,000 US neighborhoods. You can read about Nextdoor here, and even search to see if your neighborhood participates.)
It was meant as a way for Solivita residents to stay informed about what’s going on in our little corner of the world. Whether we’re looking for a local restaurant suggestion, a doctor recommendation, a dog-sitter while on vacation, listing new or used items for sale, or sharing safety concerns, Nextdoor was created as a way for neighbors to talk online in a positive way that would be informative and enhance our Solivita experience.
Unfortunately, as Solivita has grown, so have the bad attitudes, arrogance, and blatant attacks of disrespect for one’s neighbors. Oftentimes, the senior adults who are posting on Nextdoor are acting more like grade-school kids who refuse to get along. It’s not unusual for the moderators to have to step in and shut down “threads” in order to keep things decent and in order. Good thing participation in Nextdoor is voluntary, because I’ve actually stopped using it. I have no time for activity that doesn’t uplift, encourage, and edify me. Recently, as a result of a heated disagreement on Nextdoor, someone put garbage at another resident’s front door. Really? Shame on adults that act like 2-year-olds!
Lawsuit — Solivita Residents Sue the Developer AV Homes
Florida law requires developers to hand over control of the homeowners’ associations to the homeowners themselves, three months after 90% of the homes have been sold. Two years ago, after selling 75% of Solivita’s 5,589 lots, AV Homes announced their plans to sell the Solivita assets. The assets include amenities such as the clubhouse, pools, tennis courts, fitness center, etc. The price tag for these amenities? $73.3 million!
After the announcement, a group of Solivita homeowners had the amenities appraised at $19.25 million. If that number is accurate, that means an excess profit of $54 million to AV Homes. That same group of homeowners proceeded to obtain their own attorney, to ultimately abort the sale of the amenities at that high price. It’s a very complicated matter, now involving a proposed sale of the club property to CDDs (Community Development Districts), hence, a second legal challenge. Should the sale of amenities commence through bonds with CDDs, Solivita homeowners would be forced to offer club memberships to non-Solivita residents, another bone of contention between residents.
As mentioned, the legalities are difficult for the average Solivita homeowner to understand, thereby creating division amongst the residents themselves. So, for now, we wait… and wonder if our once privately gated community will be much more open to the general public in the future.
Another uncertainty with the pending lawsuit is how it will affect the Solivita HOA fees. Many residents feel there is potential for HOA fees to rise. In January 2018, my HOA fees rose just under $30/month, the highest increase since I’ve been here and since the inception of Solivita. Because Solivita is a retirement community, many residents are on a fixed income. Any dramatic HOA price increase could potentially cause financial strain on some of my neighbors.
UPDATE: Class Action – Plaintiff’s Response to Taylor Morrison’s Request for Summary Judgement. (Filed 7/29/21)
UPDATE: GREAT NEWS! The Florida Supreme Court denied Taylor Morrison’s motion. WE WON!
A PDF of the higher court’s ruling on November 2, 2023 can be read here.
A New Lawsuit Begins
SPECTRUM SUNSHINE STATE, LLC vs. SOLIVITA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC.
What a roller coaster! Just as one lawsuit has been ruled in our favor and nearing finalization by the Florida Supreme Court, another has been filed. The new litigation, however, was filed on 6/7/23 in Federal Court (vs. State Court) against us (Solivita HOA). (Click the link above for a PDF of the Complaint.)
In Conclusion
There’s an old adage that says: If you find the perfect neighborhood, don’t move in, because then it won’t be perfect anymore! Solivita, with all its imperfections and imperfect people, is still an awesome place to live. If you’re seriously considering a full-time or part-time (snowbird) home in a 55-plus community in Central Florida, I recommend you put Solivita on your list of retirement communities to tour.
And speaking of tour, Solivita offers a great try-before-you-buy deal. You can live like a resident for 3 days and 2 nights. You’ll stay in a fully furnished guest home, have the same access and privileges to the recreational facilities that the residents have, and you’ll even have a golf cart to explore the community. Additionally, you’ll receive a complimentary lunch and dinner, and a round of golf is optional. The best part… you can meet and mingle with current Solivita residents. Ask them anything you want, then compare notes with the information received from the sales staff. It’s a good way to keep everyone honest!
All of this is available for you and a guest for a nominal amount. (Add a round of golf for just $50 more). Here’s the link for more information regarding Solivita Discovery Days.
*** Any Jimmy Buffett Parrotheads out there? If so, you will definitely want to read my review of Latitude Margaritaville, a brand new island-y collection of 55+ communities in Florida and South Carolina!
QUESTIONS? Do you have a question regarding Solivita or Poinciana that I haven’t covered here? Interested in the HOA fees perhaps? Shoot me a private email through the Contact page, or simply reply in the comment box below!
Winter Garden: A Slice of Old-Florida
Winter Garden, about 20 minutes away from Central Florida’s famed theme parks in Orlando, is a superior slice of old-Florida. The brick lined streets and beautiful architecture exude small town charm, reminiscent of the way Florida used to be — before “The Mouse” moved in! In 1996 Historic Downtown Winter Garden was added to the National Registry of Historic Places. It encompasses nearly 100 acres, with 26 historic buildings.
This quaint little urban area is a former citrus town. And, although the groves have mostly been replaced with residential communities and popular retail developments, the history of this once bustling citrus hub is masterfully portrayed and well documented in the various Winter Garden museums.
Also, the award-winning West Orange Trail runs right through the middle of downtown Winter Garden. The paved 22-mile trail (converted railroad track) is a favorite of runners, rollerbladers, cyclists, and horseback riders.
Historic Winter Garden — Many Free Things To Do
One thing that surprised me was the amount of free things to do in downtown Winter Garden. Hubby and I spent a half day learning about the big-time history of this little-town, and mostly everything we did was free! That’s unheard of in Central Florida, the vacation capital of the world, where tourists tend to leave monumental amounts of money to experience the “magic” of the Sunshine State.
Read on to discover the best free things to do while in Winter Garden!
Many Free Things To Do in Winter Garden
Central Florida Railroad Museum of Winter Garden
All aboard! No need to put-on your conductor’s hat to take this railroad tour. The railroad museum is housed in the old Tavares and Gulf Rail Company building. As you enter, through the old screen door, don’t forget to sign the guestbook to put your personal mark on history.
Inside the museum we were greeted by a volunteer, a railroad history buff that was eager to share his wealth of railroad knowledge. He offered to give us a personal guided tour of the museum, about an hour long, but because of time constraints we declined. The museum chronicles the history of the two main railroads that ran through Winter Garden, the Tavares and Gulf Rail Company and The Atlantic Coast Line. The building was jam-packed with railroad artifacts, some of which I had no clue what they were. But the helpful volunteer was always available to answer any questions.
I learned that the railroad was a vital component of the Winter Garden economy. In fact, it was its lifeblood. It imported passengers from all over the Sunshine State and exported produce and freight. The train even brought famous celebrities like Humphrey Bogart and Clark Gable to Winter Garden. Their lodging of choice was the distinguished and acclaimed Edgewater Hotel. They would go bass fishing on the local lakes and enjoy the rustic laid-back charm of Winter Garden to escape the Hollywood hype.
Some of the authentic railroad articles housed in the museum are rails and spikes used for building the tracks, scale models of trains from various parts of the United States, vintage dining car china, telegraph equipment, and an old 2-piece telephone.
The Central Florida Railroad Museum in downtown Winter Garden is located at 101 South Boyd Street and open every day from 1 – 5 PM, with free admission.
Tavares and Gulf Railroad Depot
The Winter Garden Heritage Museum
Just as the name implies, this museum is dedicated to preserving the unique heritage of Winter Garden. Here, through the well preserved displays, you can take a walk down memory lane and peer into the past of this intriguing small town. The museum was built inside the 1918 Atlantic Coast Line Depot. And just like the other museums in Winter Garden, it’s staffed by local volunteers who donate their time.
In The Winter Garden Heritage Museum you’ll see vintage Winter Garden photography, documents from early settlers, a collection of Timucua Indian artifacts, early barber tools that were used at the Reeves Bros. Barber Shop (including the original red & white barber pole), vintage medical equipment, antique typewriter, an old telegraph, and a sizable collection of citrus crate labels. Additionally, many fishing-related items from Lake Apopka (5th largest lake in Florida) are on display like the turtle shell and alligator head.
In another room you’ll see photos of three old theaters in Winter Garden’s past, including the first Central Florida theater to show sound motion pictures (recently renovated and now called the Garden Theatre). One especially sentimental part of the museum is the section dedicated to local Winter Garden war heroes, with items donated by military veterans like the World War I helmet on display. All total, the Winter Garden Heritage Museum houses an extensive collection of over 5,000 artifacts documenting the area’s past.
The Winter Garden Heritage Museum is located at 1 North Main Street. It is open 7 days a week from 1 – 5 PM, and admission is free. You can’t miss the building, as it has a bright yellow caboose in front of it, which can also be accessed at no charge.
Winter Garden Heritage Museum Vintage Artifacts
History of Citrus Crate Labels
Bright Yellow Caboose in Front of the Heritage Museum
The Historic Edgewater Hotel
Okay, the Edgewater Hotel may not offer free rooms or dining, but you must at least walk into the lobby of this gorgeous hotel that was established in the roaring 20s (1927). It is free to look around. When you see the original wood countertops, antique sinks and fixtures, and fully operational 1926 Otis elevator at this Bed & Breakfast Style Inn, you’ll understand why this Winter Garden gem attracted Hollywood elite like Humphrey Bogart and Clark Gable.
The Edgewater Hotel has since been restored to emulate as much of the 1927 ambiance as possible, while adding modern conveniences like climate control, wireless internet, and gel-top bedding with memory foam. A full made-to-order breakfast is included with all rooms and served by the innkeeper.
And speaking of food, the Edgewater Hotel has three fantastic restaurants — Thai Blossom (serving lunch and dinner), The Tasting Room (serving lunch and dinner), and their signature fine dining restaurant called The Chef’s Table (open for dinner only). The Chef’s Table is one of my favorite restaurants, and worth the drive from almost anywhere in Central Florida. It’s quaint, intimate, and 5-star gourmet dining. It’s consistently rated one of America’s Top Restaurants, and the recipient of more awards than I can count. In fact, The Chef’s Table is where America’s Chef’s come to eat while in Florida! In my book, there’s no better Central Florida restaurant for a romantic rendezvous if you’re looking to impress that special someone with an added “wow factor.” (FYI — the Mushroom and Chive Crepe Torte appetizer with roasted shallot cream and truffle salt is to die for!)
The Edgewater Hotel in Historic Downtown Winter Garden
The Winter Garden History Center
The Winter Garden History Center is where hubby and I began our tour of historic Winter Garden. It is home to the research library and archives of the Winter Garden Heritage Foundation. The files at the History Center are loaded with historical information, newspaper articles, photos, and maps.
If you’re a native of Winter Garden or have family ties to the region, you’ll find some interesting information here. Some of the collections consist of historical photographs, newspapers, local school yearbooks & memorabilia, and Native American artifacts. You can also learn about the movies and videos that were filmed in and around the Winter Garden area. (For more in-depth information, you can schedule an appointment to research the archives by calling 407-656-3244.)
The Winter Garden History Center is located at 101 South Boyd Street, East Annex Building (just behind the Railroad Museum). It is open Monday through Friday, 1 – 5 PM and is free to the public.
Winter Garden Visitor Center & Gift Shop
Plant Street Market
The Plant Street Market is kind of like a permanent farmer’s market. The brick building is full of unique vendors with an artistic flair. Some of the things you can find here are locally roasted coffee, cold pressed juice, farm-to-table food, hand-crafted chocolates, yumalicious (that’s my toddler grandson’s word for anything really, really good to eat) pastries, handmade apparel, creative jewelry, one-of-a-kind home decor items, handmade candles, essential oils, bath products, antiques, and an oxygen bar. Basically, the Plant Street Market has a little bit of everything!
The Plant Street Market is the perfect place to escape the hot Florida sun. Spend a balmy afternoon sampling different foods and drinks, and you can shop for a unique gift while you’re there. Sure, you’re likely to drop a few coins here if you choose, but once again, it costs nothing to look. And, if your timing is right, you may hit a specially hosted event including a festival or concert.
Also, at the far end of the Plant Street Market is the Crooked Can Brewing Company. Crooked Can is an authentic micro-brewery where you’ll be able to sample unique brews or take a tour to learn about the brewing process. But even if you don’t drink beer (like me) Crooked Can is connected to the artisan market with excellent pizza, sushi, burgers, wings, and vegan selections.
The Plant Street Market is located at 426 West Plant Street in Winter Garden, and open 7 days a week. You can check out the complete list of 20 vendors and take a virtual tour at the Plant Street Market website.
Plant Street Market
Winter Garden Florida — A Step Back In Time
Hubby and I truly enjoyed our visit to Winter Garden. Easing into the relaxing atmosphere was… quite easy! It’s a down-to-earth kind of place where the locals take pride in their small-town city, and stand ready and willing to share a story or two about its rich history. Much has changed since Winter Garden was built on the back of the citrus industry during the end of the 19th century, but a few things have remained the same, like the welcoming spirit of this Central Florida gem.
Winter Garden is the perfect spot to unwind from all the busyness and crowds that are synonymous with the greater Orlando area. As you stroll the red bricked streets it’s easy to forget you’re a short drive away from Disney and other world-famous Central Florida theme parks. But when you must return to the “Mouse” and his house, you’ll do so revived and energized by this brief reprieve.
Don’t forget to check out the Winter Garden Post for upcoming events and additional things to do, some of which are free as well!
QUESTION: What’s your favorite thing to do in historic Winter Garden? Can you recommend another Florida town with a relaxed old-Florida atmosphere? Reply in the comment box below, our reader’s would love to know!
Fish Tacos: An Amazing Epicurean Delight
I love fish tacos, and I am perpetually looking for restaurants that have these tasty morsels from the sea. My Florida travels have taken me to some of the best fish and seafood tacos that the Sunshine State has to offer. Whether I order gourmet tuna tacos for an appetizer in a fine-dining restaurant or more traditional-style fish tacos as an entree in a dingy diner, rarely am I disappointed.
Unquestionably, fish tacos have been growing in popularity in recent years. Perhaps you have been hearing all about them, but never actually tried fish tacos for yourself. You may even be wondering what all the hype is about. Well, today I’d like to show you some of the most incredibly awesome fish and seafood tacos that I have found in Florida, and challenge you to step outside the box of traditional Mexican meat tacos and into the wonderful world of fish tacos.
Life is short. Get out of your boring-food comfort zone and treat your palate to these amazing epicurean delights.
Ahi Tuna Tacos from Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar in Orlando
Ahi Tuna Tacos at Tommy Bahama’s Restaurant & Bar
I know, I know… Tommy Bahama is best known for boat shoes and nautical-themed weekend wear, not tacos! Hubby has been sporting their casually elegant off-the-boat island attire since its inception in 1993. I have a few sundresses from their comfy women’s resort wear collection as well.
But did you know Tommy Bahama has restaurants too? Yes, 18 of their 160+ company-owned retail stores have a restaurant & bar that will immediately transport your senses to an “islandy” state of mind. We are fortunate here in Florida to have a bunch of them. I’ve eaten at their locations in Orlando, Sarasota, West Palm Beach (now closed), and Naples (my favorite one!). Just like the Tommy Bahama apparel, the restaurants have an elegant but relaxed tropical flair. And, the island-themed restaurants from this iconic fashion brand make some of the best fish and tuna tacos I have ever eaten. Here, you can choose between ahi tuna tacos as an appetizer or blackened fish tacos as an entree.
I almost always have the ahi tuna tacos appetizer. They are truly outstanding, with melt-in-your-mouth sushi-grade tuna. The tuna tacos are served in a wonton shell with island slaw and wasabi-avocado creme. So yummy! Even if you’re not a seafood aficionado, you absolutely must try these. With an explosion of flavors and texture in your mouth, the tacos are nothing short of mind-blowing!
If you’re interested in making these tacos at home, here’s the Tommy Bahama Ahi Tuna Tacos Recipe straight from their website. I have never tried the cajun blackened fish tacos, but those who have, consistently give them 5-star reviews. Here’s the link for the Tommy Bahama Blackened Fish Tacos Recipe. In these tacos the cajun blackened fish is served in white corn tortillas and topped with tomato relish, chipotle aioli, island slaw, and lime sour cream. Hungry yet?
Tuna Tartar Tacos at Mango’s Dockside Bistro in Marco Island
Yellow Fin Tuna Tacos at Mango’s Dockside Bistro
Speaking of succulent tuna tacos, another favorite Florida restaurant is Mango’s Dockside Bistro. Mango’s is located waterfront at the Esplanade Shoppes & Marina on Smokehouse Bay, on marvelous Marco Island. This lazy little island on Florida’s Southwest Coast, along the Gulf of Mexico has some of the freshest seafood you’ll find in Florida.
Hubby and I discovered Mango’s Dockside while strolling this gorgeous coastal Italian-style village that houses upscale retailers, small specialty stores, and fine dining restaurants. If ever you’re in the Southwest Florida neighborhood, you must stop by the Esplanade. The old-world architectural detail along with lush floral landscaping and fountains exudes a relaxing coastal Italian atmosphere. While enjoying the promenade along the waterfront, we visited Mango’s Dockside for a late-afternoon reprieve.
Although Mango’s has outdoor patio dining overlooking the marina, we chose to cool down inside. We loved the tropical atmosphere, waterfall, and home decor & gift shoppe at this popular Marco Island family friendly restaurant. We happened to be there during their happy hour (Monday through Saturday from 3 – 7). I must tell you, happy hours in Florida are not just for libations. In addition to liquid refreshments, many restaurants in the Sunshine State offer incredible deals on appetizers or small plate menus. And that’s what gets me happy during happy hour — getting to try so many unique “foodie” items at awesome prices!
Hubby had the ceviche from the sushi menu, made with citrus lime marinated yellowtail, conch, tuna, salmon, octopus, cucumber, avocado, tomatoes, cilantro, onion, and jalapeno. The presentation was unique and the flavors sensational. I had the yellow fin tuna tartar tacos. The tacos were served in three crispy wontons with avocado, mango, kimchee, sesame oil, and avocado-citrus-ginger aioli. Yep, you guessed it… to die for! In fact, we liked the happy hour food at Mango’s Dockside so much we went back the next night for dinner!
Shrimp Tacos from Bahama Breeze in Lake Buena Vista Florida
Shrimp Tacos at Bahama Breeze
I love Bahama Breeze, a Darden-owned Caribbean-themed restaurant that specializes in fresh seafood. The food is consistently reliable and service is always good. This is one of my favorite happy hour restaurants for food. Happy hour is Monday through Friday from 4 – 6, and the appetizers are half-price. It’s not unusual for hubby and I to each have 2 or 3 appetizers, which actually becomes our dinner! I don’t know about you, but oftentimes I think my appetizer is better than my entree in many restaurants.
Bahama Breeze has many locations in Florida, so whether you’re a local or visitor you must check out their happy hour food offerings. It goes without saying that the tacos were amongst my favorite — the shrimp tacos, that is. You can check out the full Bahama Breeze Happy Hour Menu right here.
Crunchy Fish Tacos from Grillsmith in Lakeland Florida
Fish Tacos at Grillsmith
Grillsmith is a local chain-restaurant in the Tampa Florida area with 5 locations. Whenever I go to Lakeland shopping, we have lunch at Grillsmith at the Lakeside Village Town Center. The food is always excellent and the service top-notch. And, the crunchy fish tacos are the bomb!
The tacos are served in a flour tortilla with panko breaded hand-battered cod, mango ginger salsa, red bell peppers, cilantro, Sriracha aïoli, and pad Thai slaw. Can someone say d-e-l-i-c-i-o-u-s? The mild flakey white fish contrasted with the aïoli that has just the right amount of “heat” then infused with the fruity flavor of tropical mango and the zip of ginger root… my goodness, your mouth may not even know what to do with all that awesomeness! Add a side of kicked-up fries or healthy smashed cauliflower like we do, and you’re good to go. But you won’t stay gone for long…
Fish Tacos at Jerry’s Foods Sanibel
This is one of the most unlikely places to find fish tacos — at a grocery store? But then again, Jerry’s Foods in Sanibel Island Florida is not your typical grocery store. I mean how many grocery stores do you access through a tropical rainforest? Okay, so it’s not exactly a rainforest… but it is tropical, complete with tropical talking birds!
Jerry’s Foods is always our first stop, right after arriving at our Sanibel Island villa. When the unpacking is complete, we head on over to Jerry’s. This is where I buy my mouthwatering delectable pastries, cinnamon ice cream locally made in Fort Myers, and homemade soups from the salad bar.
Jerry’s also has a cafe, and it’s always loaded with locals. Why? Because the locals know where to get the best food on the island, at the best price! When we travel, we like to eat where the locals eat. We usually do lunch here, or take advantage of the nightly dinner specials. We have never had a bad meal at Jerry’s Foods. I love the fresh Florida grouper fingers, and hubby loves the fish tacos. The tacos are made with mahi mahi, either grilled blackened or fried, and served in a flour tortilla with shredded cabbage, cilantro, and pico de gallo. So delish!
Nothing Beats a Florida Fish Taco!
There’s a lot of debate about the birthplace of fish tacos (although most people believe they originated in Baja). But regardless of where or how the fish taco crossed the border, I’m so glad it did. The cool thing about fish tacos is that they can be modified to suit everyone’s tastes. Restaurants are becoming more and more creative with their fish tacos recipes, and households from California to Florida are experimenting at home with these culinary gems.
One of the [many] things I love about living in Florida is all the fresh seafood available year round, and nothing beats a Florida fish taco!
QUESTION: I’ve shared a few of my favorite tacos and would love to know about your’s. Where’s the BEST place in Florida for fish (or seafood) tacos? Please share in the comment box below, our reader’s would love to know.
Four Decades Has Taught Me Much About Disney
So, you’ve just booked the vacation of a lifetime. You’re going to the ‘Happiest Place on Earth!’ The kiddos can hardly believe it and Dad is already making plans to work overtime for the next six months to pay for it. Walt Disney World, Florida — this is the stuff dreams are made of. There’s only one problem; you’ve never been there and have a ton of questions you wish you could ask Mickey himself.
Well, I’m not the famous Mouse, but perhaps the next best thing. You see, I’ve been going to Walt Disney World every year since 1976. But, it was an awfully long drive from Pennsylvania, so in November of 2000 I took the plunge and moved right next door to the Disney Theme Parks. (Okay… the Mouse was not the motivation for the move, but he doesn’t have to know that!) Can you guess the very first thing we did when we arrived in the Sunshine State? Well, you’re almost correct. The DMV was our first stop. Becoming a Disney Annual Passholder was actually the second thing we did — but only because we needed a valid Florida license or State-issued ID Card in order to get it! Hubby and I have been Disney Annual Passholders ever since, for the past 18 years. And after a hundred or so visits, we’ve stopped counting.
One of my favorite things to do at the Disney Parks is to talk to first time visitors. I love giving them tips to make their Disney experience more enjoyable. Certainly, I don’t know it all, but I have gained a ton of knowledge over these past 42 years of frequenting Disney. It’s my utmost pleasure, in this article, to share my Top 10 Tips For First-Time Visitors to Walt Disney World.
# 1 — Advance Planning Is Necessary!
At the Walt Disney World Complex you cannot possibly see it all in one visit. Seriously. Walt Disney World is HUGE! It covers 25,000 acres, contains 4 theme parks, 2 water parks, and 24 Disney-themed hotels. Doing your homework is vital to a well-planned visit. Decide beforehand what are the most important things you would like to see. Let everyone in the family have a say (yes, even toddlers can be very opinionated when it comes to their favorite Disney characters). Make a priority list and stick to it — everything else will be icing on the cake!
To help you plan, I recommend reading a variety of Disney-themed blogs, searching Pinterest and FaceBook for planning tips, as well as reading ‘The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World 2018.’ The book is an Amazon #1 Best Seller and an invaluable resource for first-time Disney World guests. The team of experienced researchers rank everything from hotels, restaurants, and attractions to rental car companies. This trusted resource is available for less than $10 on Kindle. And if you’re traveling with children, there’s a special edition for that: ‘The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World with Kids 2018.’
# 2 — You Don’t Need The Highest Priced Admission Ticket
As a seasoned Walt Disney World veteran, I strongly recommend that you consider the basic multi-day Disney Theme Park Pass rather than the Park-Hopper option. Park-Hopping simply means you have the ability to go from one Disney Park to another during the same day. First of all, the basic Disney Pass will save you money. Secondly, it will save you valuable time. Depending on the season and time of day, it could take a lot of time to get from one Disney Park to another. Once you use the free Disney Transportation System a few times you will agree. Whether you choose to transfer by monorail, boat, or bus, the lines can be very long. The wait time, during peak-season, could be 30-60 minutes. Then prior to entering the new Disney Park, you will have to wait in line all over again to go through the security check.
I’ve learned that everything at Disney takes longer than expected. Therefore, planning to do only one Disney Park each day will maximize your valuable vacation time.
TIP: If you happen to be a Florida resident, Disney offers special-priced annual passes for locals. Here’s the type of Disney Annual Pass that I’ve had for many years: The Disney Weekday Select Annual Pass. It’s saves me a ton of money, and is one of the best deals I’ve found for unlimited admission to all 4 Disney Theme Parks. Check out my full-length review here.
Disney Annual Pass MagicBand
# 3 — Make Advanced Dining Reservations
This is a biggy! Whether you upgraded to the Disney Dining Plan as part of your vacation package or not, reservations are vital. (Many first-time visitors erroneously think that because they upgraded to the Dining Plan they can just show up to any restaurant they want. Not so! You are still required to have reservations.) Disney will accept your dining reservations up to 180 days prior to your arrival.
I can assure you the most popular restaurants book up many months in advance. For instance, the one shown in the photo below is called ‘Be Our Guest Restaurant‘ located in Fantasyland inside Beast’s Castle. Even booking 6 months early may not allow you to get into this one! On occasion, hubby and I have been turned away from certain restaurants (for both lunch and dinner) because we failed to plan ahead and make dining reservations. When you have walked the Disney Theme Parks for many hours and worked up an appetite (and you certainly will!) it’s very disappointing to be turned away. You may have to try several restaurants before finding an available table, which typically doesn’t occur until after 9:00 PM.
TIP: Disney dining reservations can be made online here on their official website, or by calling (407) WDW-DINE or (407) 939-3463.
Be Our Guest Restaurant Inside Beast’s Enchanted Castle
# 4 — Use Disney’s Free FastPass+ System
The FastPass+ is another time-saving option. This is also something you can do from home prior to your trip — up to 60 days in advance. FastPass+ is available via the ‘My Disney Experience App‘ or online at My Disney Experience. Your selections are stored on your MagicBand and redeemed by swiping the MagicBand against an RFID reader located at the FastPass entrance to your selected attraction. (A few years ago, Disney replaced the old-fashioned ‘plastic’ admission tickets with the MagicBand, which is conveniently worn on your wrist. Now, we simply swipe it to enter the Disney Theme Parks and also swipe it to enter our FastPass+ attractions.
Additionally, if you’re staying at one of the Disney hotels or resorts, there is an option to attach a credit card to your account which will be stored in the MagicBand and therefore eliminate the need to carry credit cards while anywhere on Walt Disney World property! How super convenient that is! (One year I lost a card inside Disney’s Magic Kingdom Park.) The system allows you to schedule 3 FastPass+ attractions per day. (On January 12, 2018 Disney initiated a new pilot program to allow certain Disney guests to purchase additional FastPass+ selections for $50/day.)
If you’re not familiar with FastPass+, here’s how it works. You choose your top 3 must-see attractions or shows and schedule a time-slot in advance. You will have a 1-hour window in which to show up for the attraction; for example, between 1:00 and 2:00. After swiping your MagicBand, you proceed to a special FastPass entrance, bypassing those who are waiting in the regular entrance line. Usually, you will not have to wait more than 5 minutes to enter the attraction. Sometimes, you are able to walk right into the attraction with no wait time at all! This is where a little pre-planning and a daily itinerary can save lots of time. And at Disney, more time equals more attractions, like the opportunity to see The Little Mermaid pictured below!
The Little Mermaid Attraction at Disney Magic Kingdom
# 5 — Disney PhotoPass Photographers Will Take Pictures For Free!
PhotoPass Photographers are strategically stationed throughout the Walt Disney World Theme Parks, in front of icons and other photogenic scenery. It’s true, the Disney Photographers take the pictures for free — but downloading and printing them is not! For example, the Memory Maker Photo Package will cost $199, or $169 in advance.
BUT, here’s what I’ve learned… Those same PhotoPass Photographers will take your picture with your own camera (or cell phone camera) at no charge. All you have to do is ask! (Of course, you won’t have the ability to add all those magical special effects to your pictures.) I paid $33.90 ($16.95 each) for two photo downloads — the ones shown below, with my grandson. That’s pretty pricey, don’t you think? So unless you’re really interested in adding special effects, just ask the Disney PhotoPass Photographers to take your family’s picture with your own devise and save a boatload of money.
# 6 — Keep It Simple With The Shoes!
Okay… confession time. I’ve learned this little tip the hard (and painful) way! I love shoes — I don’t think a woman can ever have too many. I love shoes with bling, I love shoes with crazy colors, I love designer one-of-a-kind shoes… get the point? I love shoes! But when it comes to Disney, leave the fancy footwear at home. Comfort, not cute, is the unspoken rule.
Once, many years ago, I opted for the ‘cute.’ Once! By the time I was leaving the Disney Park (it happened to be Epcot), I had taken my shoes off and was walking barefoot back to the car! I had acquired blisters upon blisters, that lasted for weeks. I have never done that again. Now, I wear the most comfortable shoes that I own. Put your pride aside and pack those ‘oldies but goodies!’
TIP: If you just can’t resist the urge to buy some new shoes for your Disney vacation, there is good news. Many shoe manufacturers that have a great reputation for quality and comfort have now incorporated Disney-themed shoes into their brand. Famous names like CROCS, Keds, VANS, and Esquire all have a stylish Disney line.
# 7 — Schedule A Character Meal
This tip may not apply to everyone, but it could help those with children. When it comes to Disney Character meet-and-greet sessions the lines can be very, very long — sometimes longer than the most popular attractions. It’s not unusual to wait 30 minutes or more just for one photo opportunity or an autograph from your favorite Disney Character. For example, Disney has added a ‘Frozen‘ meet-and-greet at Epcot in the country of Norway. The wait times are longer than anything else in that Disney Park!
Recently, during a visit to Epcot with my best friend Ms. Lucy, she insisted on meeting ‘Mary Poppins.’ I reluctantly agreed, and we ended up waiting about 40 minutes. Remember, most of the Disney Character meet-and-greets are outdoors… with no shade! A better alternative, in my opinion, is to schedule a Disney Character Meal and have the Characters come to you while you eat. This is an easy way to meet many Disney Characters all at the same time. You can choose between breakfast, lunch, or dinner options at various restaurants in the four Disney Theme Parks and Disney Resort Hotels.
Note: Disney Character dining options are not cheap, but they are a major time-saver! Here’s a review I did for Chef Mickey’s Character Dining in the Contemporary Resort. I took my grandson there for his 3rd birthday, and for him it was the highlight of his special day!
Chef Mickey’s Character Dining for Brunch!
# 8 — Hydrate To Avoid The Hospital!
Today, as I write this article, it’s 95 degrees with the heat index at 105 degrees. I’m sure I do not have to tell you it gets hot in Florida. Dangerously hot! I can count on one hand the number of times I’ve been to Walt Disney World in the summer months. Since I’m local and can attend the Disney Parks anytime I wish, I choose to go during the cooler months or coolest times of day. I realize, however, many vacationers do not have that option.
I cannot stress to you enough the importance of hydration. Yes, it’s true, Disney has its own Hospital, but how many of us build that into our itinerary? At Disney, most of your time is spent either waiting in line in the hot sun or walking from ‘A to B’ with the sun reflecting off the super-hot pavement. Every day at Disney people are carried off on stretchers because of heat-related illnesses. Be wise, and wet your whistle regularly!
Here are some little known (and unadvertised) facts about water at Disney. Did you know you are able to bring your own water into the Disney Parks? (Actually, Disney allows you to bring your own food too, but that’s even more of a secret!) I recommend bringing at least one bottle for each member of your family. After that, you don’t have to pay for water if you’re okay with drinking tap water. Most counter service restaurants will give you a cup of water for free. Bottled water at Disney costs around $3.
TIP: The Disney Cast Members may give you a bit of attitude about this, but Florida Law states that if a company serves food, they must give free water if someone asks!
I also like the idea of a collapsible water bottle. It requires almost no space when packing and is reusable. In addition, I highly recommend bringing some Gatorade G2 Powder Packs (or something equivalent) that are easily added to your water and provide necessary electrolytes for hydration. Another great item for hydration health is the Brita 24-ounce Water Filter Bottle (especially if you’re drinking tap water).
# 9 — Pack A Travel Size First Aid Kit
This one is a money-saving tip. Purchase a travel size first aid kit (from your favorite Discount Store). It doesn’t have to be much larger than a deck of cards. Then fill it with these invaluable items in advance of your Disney trip: pre-cut moleskin or band-aids (remember those painful blisters I had?), pain relievers, packets of wet wipes for your skin, packets of Shout wipes for your clothes, safety pins (trust me, you will need this one for something), dramamine (or other motion sickness medication), immodium/pepto/gas-x strips, allergy meds, antacids, and hair bands. Be proactive — these items will be costly to purchase on Disney property if you need them. By bringing this small, fully stocked first aid kit means you do not have to carry all those full-sized items around with you.
Two additional items that will not fit into the first aid kit are an absolute must. Ponchos and Sunscreen! Ponchos because when it rains in Florida… it pours! I mean torrential, tropical-like downpours. Oftentimes, these brief afternoon storms come with little warning. I cannot tell you how often I was at Disney in the rain — unprepared. The ponchos you bring from home will be better quality and far less costly than those available in the Disney Parks with Mickey’s name on it. Also, sunscreen is essential. Remember, you’ll be spending a huge amount of time in the hot Florida sun. Even on a cloudy day the sun’s ultraviolet rays get through. It breaks my heart every time I see a sunburned baby or child at Disney. We have a saying here in Florida that goes like this: ‘You can always tell the locals from the tourists; the tourists are the ones with the sunburns!’
# 10 — Remember, You ARE On Vacation!
Years ago I can remember some of our Walt Disney World vacations that didn’t feel like a vacation at all. By the time we got back home to Pennsylvania, I felt like I needed a vacation. The whole time we were at Disney, we would go, go, go. We would try to squeeze in as much as possible, which didn’t leave much time for rest. There are a plethora of beautiful benches (like the one at Epcot in this photo) just waiting to be found!
Walt Disney World can be physically exhausting! Make sure you plan for some down-time to recharge your batteries. Spend the afternoon at the hotel pool or water park. Explore some of the slower off-the-beaten-path places that Disney properties have to offer. You may be pleasantly surprised with these dazzling diversions. Slow down… you ARE on vacation, after all!
DO YOU HAVE A RECOMMENDATION FOR FIRST-TIME DISNEY GUESTS? PLEASE SHARE YOUR DISNEY TRAVEL TIPS IN THE COMMENT BOX BELOW. OUR READERS WOULD LOVE TO KNOW!
I Love My New Set of Wheels!
To me, my Huffy Deluxe Cruiser is as cool as a classic car. No, really! My brand new Huffy Cruiser bicycle has details reminiscent of vintage vehicles of yesteryear. My women’s Cruiser bike came complete with white-wall tires (well, in this case they’re not exactly white), classic fenders, adjustable rear rack, handlebar wire basket, a beverage holder, and an over-sized padded spring saddle seat with embroidery. And, did I mention the color? MINT GREEN! Oh yeah. (Well, the manufacturer calls it mint green. Although I wouldn’t call it that, I do love whatever color it is!) It’s not that I like to stand out in a crowd… but with this Huffy bicycle, I just do! Boring and bland is not my cup of tea. If everything else in my life reflects my unique personality, why shouldn’t my bike?
My Quest for a Single Speed Bike Was Not Easy!
For many years I’ve had a desire to start riding bike again, but got bummed out every time I went looking for one. I’m a “seasoned citizen” now (that’s my term for ‘senior’), and I haven’t ridden a bicycle in decades, so I didn’t want one of those popular speed bikes. Do you know how difficult it is to find a single speed adult bike? One that doesn’t look juvenile? I had almost given up hope, until one day hubby and I came across this Huffy Deluxe Women’s Cruiser. Of course, it was on a day when we were not searching for a bicycle. Isn’t that usually how it goes?
A Custom-Designed Cruiser?
I’ve only had my Huffy Cruiser for a few months and it has already exceeded my expectations. It’s stylish, functional, and fast. Compared to other bikes in my past — well, it’s beyond compare! Virtually every time I ride, I get multiple compliments on it. People absolutely love the retro-look… and the cool color! Some even think it was custom-designed, and are surprised to find out otherwise. And then I tell them how affordable it was!
I ride my Huffy Cruiser about 3 days a week, 7-8 miles at a time, and have not had any major issues with it, apart from routine maintenance. After 168 miles, the back tire required a little air, and at times the seat coils squeak when riding over bounces.
I live in Florida where afternoon thunderstorms pop up almost daily, sometimes with little warning, so I really appreciate the distinctive flared fenders that help keep me clean and dry. (TIP: Just like anything with chrome, it requires a little polish from time to time. In a hot, humid environment like Florida, chrome can easily rust without routine maintenance.)
My Huffy Deluxe Cruiser is sporty and extremely well built; I feel very safe riding it. You know it has to be strongly constructed for the manufacturer to offer a lifetime warranty on the bike’s frame. (NOTE: The bike is very heavy so I am not sure how it would respond with hills. Again, with the flatness of Florida, that’s not an issue for me.)
I cannot speak to the element of assembly, as I purchased mine already assembled and ready to ride! (TIP: You may want to take your Huffy Cruiser to a bike shop for assembly. And while you’re there, get a little of the right touch-up paint for those inevitable dings. If you purchase your Huffy Cruiser through an off-price online retailer like Amazon, it will still be less expensive than paying retail for this bike.) Here’s the Amazon link to the Women’s Huffy Deluxe Cruiser to compare prices.
What type of bicycle do you prefer?
Huffy Deluxe Cruiser — For the Young and Young at Heart!
Fifty-nine isn’t as old as it used to be! I may live in an active-adult community, but this grandma isn’t over-the-hill yet! In fact, I feel much younger whenever I’m on my Huffy Cruiser. Seriously! It’s a mindset, I guess. Riding a Cruiser is about feeling awesome. It’s that simple. I’ve added a few photos of my Huffy hangin’ out in Solivita (which means ‘Life in the Sun!’) where I live.
As you can see, I love to ride to our Farmer’s Market on Monday’s and Friday’s. Also, my best friend from Pennsylvania, Ms. Lucy, is hoping to move to Solivita after retirement — so I’ve been using my Women’s Huffy Cruiser to go house hunting recently. In addition to that, I ride on the miles and miles and miles of perfectly manicured bike paths strategically placed throughout my 55+ gated community.
Even though the Huffy Cruiser is awesome exercise for the older sector, this bike has become quite popular with younger college students. Imagine your daughter or grand-daughter cruising the campus on this beauty! It’s a head-turner, for sure. And the wire basket and adjustable rear rack are perfect for a backpack, iPad, or stack of books. With the double density grips and pedals (I can even wear sandals without any foot slippage) it will be a comfortable ride and cheap mode of transportation.
In conclusion, I can honestly say that my Huffy Deluxe Cruiser was one of the best purchases I’ve made in a long, long time. It’s comfortable, stylish, and very well built. And, for the price point, it’s a great value. I highly recommend this vintage-looking bicycle!
I’ll keep you posted as I explore more and more uses for my new set of wheels!
Gone House Hunting with My Huffy!
Shopping with My Huffy!
Resting with My Huffy!
IS THE HUFFY CRUISER (MENS OR LADIES) A GOOD FIT FOR YOU? PLEASE SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS IN THE COMMENT BOX BELOW!
Leoma Lovegrove Outdoor Art Gallery in Matlacha Florida
Matlacha — Man, You Gotta Love This Artsy Place!
If it’s a bustling, barefoot-on-the-beach kind of Florida vacation you’re looking for, you’ve made a wrong turn! Matlacha (pronounced: MAT-la-shay) is a teeny tiny little town off the southwest coast of Florida, on Pine Island. This awesome artist enclave is on a spit of land only 0.2 sq. miles; (I know, I know, my walk-in shower is almost that size!). The population is a minuscule 735, during high season!
The name Matlacha comes from a Caloosa (Indian) word meaning “water to the chin,” and there are scrapbooks of local history all over the island. In its former life Matlacha was a commercial fishery, but that ended in 1992 with a voter-led ban on net fishing. Hence, the small shacks the fishermen once called home have been refurbished and are now occupied by a highly regarded artists community.
Matlacha…
A Pee-wee Sized Place!
Every single day, as many people move into Florida as the entire population of Matlacha.
A Bright-Colored Bicycle On The Beach
A Matlacha Mindset: Island Time Begins Here!
I grew up in a tiny town in Central Pennsylvania — Amish country, where there were more farms than families. Truth be told, I always thought my hometown was tiny… until I discovered Matlacha!
Matlacha is one of those rare “Old Florida” style spots — a quiet, secluded, off-the-beaten-path place that you visit on purpose. There’s a sign at the Bridgewater Inn that says, “Island Time Begins Here.” So true! I noticed there were no traffic lights, no schools, nor any churches on this tiny isle. And, the town-folk never seemed to be in a hurry. In Matlacha, time changes more slowly than the Florida I have come to know.
Hubby and I discovered this tiny treasure in November, while staying in Cape Coral about 20 minutes away. The longer I live in Florida, (18 years now), the less desire I have for those popular touristy towns. Oh sure, I still renew my Annual Disney Pass every year. But at times I crave the simple, delightful pleasures of God’s handiwork more than man-made Disney magic.
In Matlacha, I’ve replaced monorails with mangroves, concrete and blacktop with island boutiques and bungalows, and skyscrapers with seawater and sailboats — secluded soul-searching at its best! As a writer, if One can’t find inspiration and motivation here, they may as well give up the proverbial pen! For example: I photographed the “Bicycle on the Beach” (photo above) on the road from Matlacha to Pine Island. It perfectly captured the atmosphere of this tiny sub-tropical island oasis! To me, the essence of Matlacha can be conveyed with just this single still image. If a picture is worth a thousand words, here’s the first few that came to mind… slow, simplistic and sensational! In fact, Matlacha Florida is one of those rare things that hasn’t been over-exposed in the Sunshine State.
The Many Colors of Matlacha!
A Funky, Colorful Artist Community
Matlacha is a tiny town with HUGE talent! If fun and quirky is embedded in your DNA, and you have a flare for the unusual, this tiny quadrant of land is for you. Most times, if you blink while passing through something this small you will miss it. Not so with Matlacha. This place is so bold and bright you could see it with your eyes tightly closed at night! Southern Living Magazine says: “This colorful coastal village looks as if someone flew over South Florida and dropped a crayon box!”
The town of Matlacha may be tiny, but the creativity on display is humongous. A multitude of authors, musicians, and artists call Matlacha home. It didn’t take long to figure out this is Florida’s quintessential quaint spot for recharging your artistic batteries. It didn’t surprise me then to hear that famous people like Jimmy Buffet are part-time residents. (Yes, this place makes Key West look like a major metropolis.) Remember the Elvis Presley movie, “Follow That Dream?” Well, numerous scenes were shot in Florida, including one around the Matlacha bridge.
Leoma Lovegrove Art Gallery in Matlacha
Wild Child Art Gallery on Matlacha Island
Frills – My Favorite Women’s Boutique!
Take Home A Mermaid, If You Dare!
Lush Tropical Foliage on Matlacha Island
Lovegrove Gallery & Gardens — My Favorite Art Gallery on the Planet
The tiny town of Matlacha has six unique art galleries, but my hands-down favorite was Lovegrove Gallery & Gardens. Hubby and I travel a lot, but I seriously have never seen anything like this. The owner and artist is Leoma Lovegrove, and the building is a combination artist studio, island gift shop, and botanical garden in the rear. This location in Matlacha serves as her international headquarters. The exterior polka dotted walls (to me they looked like whimsy bubbles from champagne) and flamingo pink roof are just a small glimpse of what is inside. Totally eccentric and so much to see, this tiny gem is jam-packed with Leoma’s art and crafts that are as colorful as her personality.
Leoma’s favorite rock band is the Beatles, and she devotes the entire front room of her gallery to this theme. It felt like I was translated back to the 60s when bell-bottoms and peace-love tee-shirts were totally cool. Two additional viewing areas are the “Florida Room” and her patriotic “Leoma Loves America Room.” We purchased a unique wall plaque as a Christmas gift for our best friends up north, and of course Leoma was happy to sign it.
I have since learned that Ms. Lovegrove did a portrait of former President Jimmy Carter (which hangs in his presidential library), and former President George W. Bush includes her work in his private collection. She has also done paintings for celebrities like Sharon Stone and Jesse Metcalf, as well as the City of Fort Myers. Additional prominent places displaying her work are the Southwest Florida International Airport, and the Edison Ford Winter Estates Museum. Once, she even painted in Claude Monet’s gardens during a visit to France!
“Your life should be a work of art!”
— Leoma Lovegrove
Eclectic and Psychedelic Creations by Matlacha Diva, Leoma Lovegrove
Leoma Lovegrove Gallery Rated #1 in TripAdvisor
If you’d like to visit Leoma’s technicolor-world of tropical artistic flair, her Gallery & Gardens is rated #1 of 20 Things To Do in Matlacha on TripAdvisor. She has also received TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence award. You can access the reviews here. A fun “island-y” activity is to paint your very own coconut postcard to keep or mail back home. Or, release your own inner artist by painting your own masterpiece in the outdoor garden with the help of Vino’s Picasso (Seasonal Nov-April). Stop by Sunday afternoon’s and you’ll hear live music in the gardens (free). If you’re really serious about making happy memories in Matlacha, Leoma’s waterfront guest cottage is available to rent through Airbnb.
In addition to her artwork, Leoma also designs a women’s and men’s clothing line for Bealls Department Store, colorful accessories, as well as gorgeous tropical-themed housewares.
Matlacha — Authentic Island Style Life
Matlacha is one of Florida’s most popular historic landmarks and destinations. The next time you’re traveling Southwest Florida’s Gulf Coast, do yourself a favor and spend a few hours (or a day or two) in this small town treasure. You won’t see the typical condos, retirement communities, or golf resorts that have come to represent Florida. You’ll get a taste of rural Florida, the way it used to be, long before “the Mouse” came to town. In fact, Matlacha is the perfect antidote for Disney overdose! You can’t book a 5-star hotel here… not even close. But if you crave old pine floors and “pocket doors” that slide into the walls, now you’re talking authentic island style life.
Until 1927, the only way to Matlacha was by water. Lucky for us there are three bridges now, but not a lot else has changed. Experience Old Florida at its finest, and that chill island vibe will cause you to wonder why you ever saw the need for e-mail!
Authentic Island Style Life in Matlacha!
Have you been to Matlacha Island? Or perhaps you’ve found your own little ‘Old Florida’ gem. Please share in the comment box below. Our reader’s would love to know!
The Bubble Room on Captiva Island – A Kitsch Eatery
Captiva Island: A Compact Mass of Crazy Color
The first time I drove by the Bubble Room on Captiva Island, I knew I would have to try it. The bold colors and outrageously eccentric exterior of this restaurant can’t be missed from the highway, and immediately piques your interest. In fact, the quirky conglomerate of outdoor decorations scream for your attention. I mean, how often do you see year-round Christmas decorations mixed with vintage vehicles, rainbow-colored bridges and awnings, antique soda signs from yesteryear, gnomes guarding the gate, and Bo-Bo’s gorilla cage all mixed together in perfect harmony? (And our brains were trained to believe those tiny old men with a beard and pointed hat only existed in children’s stories!)
The Bubble Room Gorilla Cage
Hubby and I were vacationing at one of our favorite destinations, sensational Sanibel Island, and had decided to take the scenic drive up to Captiva Island, a teeny-tiny sliver of land nestled between Florida’s southwest coast and the Gulf of Mexico. It didn’t take long to realize this whole island has a slightly off-kilter feel. [Maybe magical is a better word.] Although very close neighbors, Captiva has a very different atmosphere than Sanibel…actually, different from most other Florida towns — somewhat amusingly unconventional really. The Bubble Room was not the only bizarre-looking structure on Captiva. Much of Captiva was like one of those crazy colorful cupcakes you see at toddler birthday parties. The island is definitely one of those highly “instagrammable” spots in America! Captiva Island can thank the Bubble Room for all that crazy color, as it was one of the first structures to introduce the bright and cheerful colors now widely used on the island.
The Cupcake Colors of Captiva Island
2-Day West Coast Florida Tour: Everglades Park, Gulf of Mexico, Sanibel Island and Outlet Shopping
from: Viator
The Bubble Room on Captiva Island — A Totally Unique Restaurant Experience
The Bubble Room is located at 15001 Captiva Drive, Captiva Island, Florida, and is an island institution since 1979. When restaurants stick around for four decades, you know they’re doing something right! The Bubble Room has received the prestigious Trip Advisor “Certificate of Excellence” designation, and has been featured on The Food Network’s “Craziest Restaurants in America.” The Bubble Room restaurant also appears in some of those “Best Of” lists, like “The Best of Weird Florida” and “Trippy Stuff.” When your name is associated with adjectives like crazy and weird and trippy, you know the restaurant is going to be a delicious holiday from the ordinary! At the Bubble Room, lunch is served from 11:30-3:00, and dinner from 4:30-9:00, seven days a week.
Florida’s Most Outrageous & Award-winning Restaurant
Lunch at the Bubble Room
Hubby and I made it just in time to have a late lunch at the Bubble Room. Since we were combining lunch and dinner, we wanted something substantial. We were pleased to see the menu included a nice variety of luncheon entrees, in addition to soup, salad, and sandwich choices. The appetizers sounded awesome as well, but we wanted to save room for their specialty, the homemade cakes.
Some of the original menu items from 1979 are still offered, like the Socra Cheese, Bubble Bread, Carolina Moons, Tarzan, Eddie Fisherman, and some of the delicious oversized desserts.
I had the “Smoke Gets In Your Eyes” entree — a fillet of fresh salmon, grilled and brushed with a blend of honey, soy, and pineapple. It was served with Caribbean rice and black beans. Hubby had the “Jumpin’ Jive” entree — a grilled fresh fillet of grouper, topped with a spicy tropical fruit salsa and served with Caribbean rice and black beans. The quality of both seafood entrees were outstanding, and tasted as if the fish had just come off the boat.
At the end of our meal, our “bubble scout” (servers wear scout uniforms) presented the much anticipated dessert tray. Oh my goodness! Even if you must get a to-go container, these decadent sweet treats are not to be missed. With ten different dessert selections, it was hard choosing just two. I decided on the famous and hugely popular Orange Crunch Cake, and hubby had the Tropical Breeze Cake. Be forewarned: the cakes are humongous! Plenty big enough for sharing, but I recommend each person getting their own and taking the leftovers home. Since we were there for lunch, unfortunately we didn’t get to sample the Bubble Room’s popular Bubble Bread and Cinnamon Buns that are brought right out to the table during dinner hours. I hear they are to-die-for — reason enough for a return visit!
TIP: I know you’re going to want the Orange Crunch Cake recipe, so I searched online for a copycat recipe. Here’s a great one from Genius Kitchen website that gets rave reviews. This link will take you right to the Bubble Room Orange Crunch Cake recipe. I loved this cake, but apparently I’m not alone, as it has developed quite a cult following. Don’t you love it when you can get your favorite restaurant recipes at home?
The Bubble Room’s Fantastic Lunch Entrees – Specializing in Fresh Seafood
Bubble Room Lunch Menu – Nice Variety
 |
Dolphin Cruise from The Florida Aquarium in Tampa Bay – $37.49
The Florida Aquarium in Tampa Bay is offering cruises aboard a 72-foot, 130-passenger catamaran, officially named Bay Spirit II. The Aquarium has partnered with the Tampa Port Authority in order to bring this important project to life. Also included is admission to the Florida Aquarium. |
The Bubble Room’s Quirky Decor
The decor inside the Bubble Room is unlike anything I’ve experienced. I don’t normally dine where Christmas, nostalgia, antiques, and Hollywood are all rolled into one — a unique vibe, to say the least. There are tons of cool memorabilia throughout, in multiple rooms on three floors, including on the ceilings. In fact, there isn’t a square foot in the Bubble Room that doesn’t have some kind of vintage decor. There are Hollywood movie posters, bubble lights, planes, moving trains, antique toys from the 30s & 40s, clowns, and the iconic Christmas displays. They even have an original Christmas scene from Macy’s Department Store. Being in the Bubble Room is kind of like taking a trip down memory lane. Even the tables in the restaurant are shadow box style with nostalgic items to view while eating. The background music consists of old tunes composed in the 20s, 30s, & 40s. In its early years, the Bubble Room was popular with many visiting stars of cinema, hence the introduction of Hollywood posters with some of our idols from the big screen.
The Bubble Room’s Quirky Decor!
Bubble Room’s Iconic Kitschy Decor
The Bubble Room Bar
The Bubble Room Gift Emporium
Another cool thing about the Bubble Room is the on-site Gift Emporium. It’s worth a peek either before or after your meal. You can pick up a Bubble Room T-shirt, coffee mug, can koozie, etched beer glass, Bubble Room playing cards, Christmas ornaments, and of coarse those infamous bubble lights from yesteryear! In addition to the Bubble Room-themed gifts, they have some inexpensive jewelry. I picked up two nice bracelets, both under $10. If you visited the restaurant and missed the opportunity to get a special momento, you can order from the Bubble Room Emporium’s online store here.
The Bubble Room Gift Emporium
Bubble Room Gift Ideas
The Bubble Room — An Iconic Captiva Island Landmark
I highly recommend a visit to the Bubble Room if you’re passing through the beaches of Fort Myers, Sanibel, or Captiva. You gotta go at least once. No, there isn’t a water view at the Bubble Room, but there is plenty to look at while you dine. If you find yourself in need of some Christmas cheer, head out to this colorful restaurant that celebrates the holiday season 365 days a year. Yeah, it’s a little over-the-top with the kitschy decor, but the weirdness is matched with indulgent eats like creative fresh seafood and steak entrees, mouth-watering appetizers, garlic and cheese smothered Bubble Bread, and massive slices of cake.
Your southwest Gulf Coast Florida vacation isn’t complete without visiting this treasure trove of nostalgia with a serving of fantastic food and fun on the side!
TIP: Interested in other fun things to do while visiting the beaches of Fort Myers, Sanibel Island, or Captiva? Check out this popular article on FloridaFunAndFork: “Sanibel Island Things To Do And Recommended Day Trips!”
***Have a suggestion for another fun and fantastic eatery on the islands of Florida’s Southwest Gulf Coast? Our readers would love to hear about it! Please leave a reply in the “comment” box below!
Fort Myers Coastal Sealife Dolphin and Shelling Cruise
from: Viator