About.com

Farewell

Tue, 29 Jan 2013 19:56:29 +0000

To quote one of Florida's favorite singers, Jimmy Buffet, "There's wind in our hair, And there's water in our shoes, Honey, it's been a lovely cruise....!"

After 13 wonderful years as the Orlando Cities & Towns Guide for About.com, I have decided to pursue my own writing and Internet goals. As of February 1, 2013, I will no longer be writing for About.com.

I want to say a big "Thank You!" to all my many friends at About.com, and my terrific readers/contributors for your great support over the years!

Fondly, Theresa Johnston

Now Serving Brunch at Raglan Road

Tue, 29 Jan 2013 15:57:26 +0000

In fine Irish tradition, the folks at Raglan Road have found a way to continue the Saturday evening celebration right on into Sunday! A festive sharing of food and music with family and friends, The Rollicking Raglan Sunday Brunch is served from 11:00am until 4:00pm with live music and dancing starting at noon.

The menu offers some traditional brunch favorites along with Irish taste treats created by Master Chef Kevin Dundon, including the Full Irish with sausage, black and white pudding, bacon, roasted tomato, mushrooms and fried eggs with roasties. Another must try item here is the Irish Red Eye, a spicy Bloody Mary served with a float of Guinness.

For a special gathering with family and friends, try the 'Host the Roast' family style dining experience. Choose between Roast Rib of Beef, Roast Pork loin, Roast Leg of New Zealand Lamb or Roast lemon thyme Chicken. Each choice is served with traditional accompaniments and carved table side by you or one of your guests (assisted by one of the restaurant's chefs of course.)

More: The Rollicking Raglan Sunday Brunch

Senses, a Disney Spa

Tue, 22 Jan 2013 16:23:43 +0000

Rejuvenate in 2013! Unwind with a day of indulgence, wellness and relaxation at Senses, a Disney Spa at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort.

Come in and experience one of the 'journeys' offered; Relax, Renew or Imagine. Lounges, whirlpools and treatment rooms all provide rejuvenation through the healing nature of Florida citrus and botanicals. A new menu of services has been created for the retreat which include Eminence, handmade organic skin care products from Hungary.

Jewels of Titanic

Sun, 20 Jan 2013 10:08:05 +0000

For more than 100 years, the mystique of R.M.S. Titanic's sailing and subsequent sinking has captured the world's imagination. Hailed as the most luxurious ocean liner the world had ever seen, Titanic's manifest for the doomed maiden voyage had some of the wealthiest and most well-known individuals of the day.

It was 75 years after the Titanic sank that the first recovery operation was embarked upon. One of the most remarkable artifacts found was an unmarked leather Gladstone bag containing jewels from some of the passengers. These treasures are now on display at Titanic The Experience on International Drive until March 12, 2013 as Jewels of Titanic.

Weekend Farmer's Markets

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 18:43:38 +0000

Buy Local! Fresh fruits and vegetables, colorful seasonal flowers and orchids in bloom. Always a favorite, locally made jam and jelly. With allergy season upon us - check out the benefits of buying local honey.

You will find here a list of the farmers markets in the Orlando area. Find a wide selection of fresh produce and numerous other products at Central Florida Farmer's Markets - some open on Saturday, others on Sunday.

Central Florida Fishing Guide

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 08:34:21 +0000

If you are thinking of going fishing this weekend, first find out what you need as far as a Florida Fishing License before you head out the door. More: Guide to Freshwater Fishing

The Orlando area is loaded with public docks and boat ramps where you can launch your boat for fishing in one of Central Florida's lakes and rivers. Check the locations in Orange, Seminole, Osceola and Lake Counties. More: Orlando Area Public Boat Ramps

For a little more assistance, Capt. Rob Blake, a full time fishing guide on Florida's Mosquito Lagoon and Indian River provides a brief history of Mosquito Lagoon and explains why it has become a such popular fishing destination. More: Mosquito Lagoon Fishing

^{Photo © Capt. Rob Blake}

13 In 13, A Year of Living Creatively

Sun, 13 Jan 2013 19:14:34 +0000

Many of you may know Joseph Hayes from his entertaining and informative articles in Orlando Magazine. In 2013, this College Park resident, playwright, music producer, freelance writer, radio guy, spoken word performer... AND shameless self-promoter (his words) has orchestrated a year of cultural and creative projects. Some events (Credo Conduit Workshop) are free of charge, others (Heather Friedman Jazz Performance at Hannibal's on the Square) require a reservation and admission charge. All in all, the 13 events will be a much appreciated addition to Orlando's Cultural scene. You can preview the lineup at 13in13: My Year of Living Creatively and support this venture through the Kickstarter funding program.

Blue Springs State Park

Sat, 12 Jan 2013 00:11:28 +0000

Cooler temperatures encourage the West Indian Manatee to the constant 72 degree waters of Blue Springs. These comparatively warm, spring-fed waters attract North America's largest sea cow gathering every winter. If you have never seen a manatee up close, now is a great time to view these Gentle Giants of nature.

Visit the Manatee Festival January 26 & 27, 2013.

Preview Photos of Orlando's Favorite Animal Attractions.

More free events in January.

Your Florida Homestead Exemption

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 18:31:45 +0000

If you purchased a home and made it your primary residence by December 31, 2012 then you are eligible for a homestead exemption on your property taxes.

If you are a new homeowner it is best to file for your Florida Homestead Exemption right away. You must have your application no later than March 1st of the year in which you wish to start receiving the exemption.

More: Where and When to file for your Florida Homestead Exemption in the Orlando area.

New Year's Eve Cocktail Recipes

Wed, 26 Dec 2012 00:08:18 +0000

Make your New Year's Eve special this year with a few special holiday drinks. Recipes from local restaurants that will add festive touch to your holiday party:

Sparkling Star Cocktail from Fleming's
Apple Cider Martini from BRAVO!
Rum Punch from Treasure Tavern