Visit the Other Orlando

The number one association with Orlando, Florida is Disney. Mickey Mouse. Theme parks.
Sweat. Crowds. Cranky kids.

Why torture yourself? There is so much more to see in Orlando! Try traveling here in the off season, Labor Day to Memorial Day. The weather is still beautiful, sunny, and warm, but it's not unbearable. And if you do venture into tourist territory, you won't be fighting the crowds.

Downtown Orlando is the cultural center for locals. Lake Eola Park, established in 1888, is one of the most beautiful of all the lake parks in central Florida. The center is garnished with a large fountain that makes a gorgeous nightscape with its multicolored lights. In the park, you can feed the many ducks and swans, or even ride a swan (boat) or gondola. There are green lawns for lounging and play equipment for the kiddies. Many festivals are held here year-round.

If you like more excitement, stick around downtown after dark. Orange Avenue, Wall Street, and Church Street come alive with club goers, music lovers, and foodies. It's impossible to try all the clubs and restaurants, but it's fun trying. For a unique experience, hop a bike carriage to take you from one end of the strip to the other. These professional bicyclists give free rides (tip appreciated) on their yellow chariots every night.

Back to the food. Because Orlando is a magnet for people from all over the world, the restaurants reflect this. In downtown Orlando, you can find Mexican, Sushi, Italian, Greek, and Indian within minutes of one another. Many of the restaurants near the clubs are open late. See if you can find the best late night pizza joint!

Very near downtown is Winter Park, a suburb of Orlando that houses Rollins College, a private institution. Park Avenue hosts a variety of higher end shops and cafes, and offers a pleasant walk down its tree-lined corridor. Around the corner is the Winter Park Farmer's Market, open on Saturdays. Local farmers and artisans sell their plump, vivid-colored fruits and vegetables, as well as fresh bread, cheeses and plants. Get there early to access the best selection.

Last is my personal secret. On Mills Avenue in Winter Park, is Ba Le, a Vietnamese/French bakery-deli. They sell an assortment of Vietnamese sandwiches and lunch specials, but I just go for the bread. At 4 baguettes for $1, it's the best experience I can share. The bread is baked fresh, and is flaky and warm. You'll thank me.

Go against the norm on your next trip to Orlando. Skip the high-dollar International Drive area and make memories you will savor until your next trip!