There’s No Place Like Home
There is something special about finding the perfect place to call home. Whether it is a bustling downtown high-rise, a quiet tree-lined street, a lakeside retreat, or a family-friendly suburb filled with parks and local favorites, Central Florida continues to offer an incredible variety of communities that fit every lifestyle and stage of life. That is why our annual Great Neighborhoods Issue remains one of our favorite editions each year.
Inside these pages, you will find a wide-ranging look at some of the most desirable neighborhoods, communities, and real estate opportunities across the region. This year, we have also expanded our coverage to include new home developments and apartment communities, giving readers even more flexibility and insight into the many ways people are choosing to live in Central Florida today. Even if you are perfectly happy where you are, there is still something exciting about exploring the possibilities and discovering just how many wonderful places exist right here in our own backyard. As Dorothy famously said, there truly is no place like home.
Of course, this issue goes beyond real estate and neighborhood living. Summer is in full swing, and we catch up with our stylish friends at Tommy Bahama for a look at the latest swimwear trends and warm-weather fashion designed for days spent poolside, beachside, or on vacation. Speaking of vacation, award-winning photographer Roberto Gonzalez takes us to the stunning island of Sint Maarten, a tropical getaway that is now just one direct flight away from Orlando. From crystal-clear waters to colorful island culture, it is the perfect inspiration for your next escape.
Closer to home, we also had the opportunity to step inside the Disney Institute at Disney’s Contemporary Resort in Lake Buena Vista. If you think you already know what to expect, think again. This immersive leadership and professional development experience delivers valuable lessons in customer service, creativity, and business excellence that can benefit companies of all sizes. It is an eye-opening experience that feels every bit as magical as you would imagine from Disney.
In Food & Drink, Brendan O’Connor sits down with several local foodie influencers to learn more about the evolving culinary scene in Orlando, from how trends are born to the ways social media continues to shape where and how we dine. We also reveal your Readers’ Choice top five picks for Italian cuisine in Orlando, guaranteed to inspire your next pasta night or date night reservation.
As always, thank you for spending time with us each month. We hope this issue inspires you to explore, discover, and appreciate everything that makes Central Florida such a wonderful place to live.