Our Cover Story: Lunch in Key West... There and Back in A Few Hours
A R T S + C U LT U R E
TAKI NG GRE AT TRAVEL PH OTOS: PRO TI PS FRO M OU R PH OTO GRAPH ER, DAWN AIELLO TR AV E L
E XPERI ENCI NG EU RO PE BY TRAIN
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At Artisan Kitchen and Bath Gallery, we invite you to visit our stunning 4,500-square-foot showroom on North Orange Avenue and experience the true meaning of “luxury.” Highest quality brands, including Kohler, Kallista, House of Rohl, Waterstone, Hansgrohe.
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ENJOY YOUR LAKE!
Fender Marine Construction can bring your dreams of a beautiful and functional dock, deck, and boathouse to reality. This past Fender Marine project features composite decking, stainless steel cable rail, a covered activity deck, open activity deck, and full-size boathouse with lift. Dedicated to Quality Workmanship
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April 2023 PUBLISHER S
LIFESTYLE LETTER
Get Out Your Bucket List. It's Time To Explore! When I was about six years old, my parents and I, along with a friend of theirs, took a vacation to Mazatlán, Mexico. However, this was no ordinary vacation, mainly because we traveled by car. We left St. Louis, my hometown, and the four of us spent the next six days crammed into a 1967 VW Beetle with no air conditioning in the middle of the hot summer. Once we got there, we spent the next three weeks living in a tent at a beachside campground. Every day for breakfast, we went to a little café nearby and I ordered platanos fritos, which were plantains sliced lengthwise, dipped in batter, and fried like French toast. (And, yes, if you can make French toast, you can make this yourself and thank me later!) By far, that vacation is my favorite childhood memory. I mention this because this is our “Explore” issue, which is largely dedicated to traveling and exploring unique and interesting places, as well as fun ways to get there. For example, our cover story will open your eyes about traveling by private jet and how accessible, fun and convenient it is. If traveling through Europe and enjoying the beautiful scenery by train is on your bucket list, we have a great article about that, too. Finally, our photographer, Dawn Aiello, shares some pro tips about how to take great vacation photos. We hope you enjoy reading this issue and that you get some interesting ideas about what to explore on your next adventure. And if you do take some great photos or videos, please share them with us on our Instagram and Facebook pages. Weʼd love to see them!
Andy Cingolani | andy.cingolani@citylifestyle.com Renee Cingolani | renee.cingolani@citylifestyle.com EDITOR
Ruth Shively | ruth.shively@citylifestyle.com STAFF PHOTOGR APHER
Dawn Aiello | dawn@dawnaiellophotography.com
Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell AD DESIGNER Rachel Collins LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
RENEE & ANDY CINGOL ANI, PUBLISHERS @WINTERPA RKCIT Y LIFE S T Y LE
Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise
Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT Y LIFE S T Y LE.COM / WINTERPA RK |
Proverbs 3:5-6 Winter Park City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Winter Park area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Winter Park City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable,
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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R
but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
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APRIL 2023
inside the issue The Explore Issue
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F E ATU R E D
D E PA RTM E NTS
16 Our Cover Story: Air Travel the Way It Should Be
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Lifestyle Letter
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City Scene
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Business Monthly
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Local Experiences
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Our Town PR O FES S I O NA L S ERV IC E S
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Trend Setter LI FE + C U LT U R E
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Road Trip A RTS + C U LT U R E
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Back Stage ENT ERTA I NMENT
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Travel Journal T R AV EL
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Outdoor Adventure T R AV EL
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Events
Skip the commercial airlines and discover the benefits of flying with a private charter company.
20 Picture Great Vacations! Professional Tips from Our Photographer, Dawn Aiello Check out these simple tips for taking impressive travel photos.
24 The Joys of Train Travel Through Europe
From Old World elegance to towering snow-covered peaks, train travel takes you there.
O N T H E C OV E R
Photography: Dawn Aiello Photography Joe Lamiroult of KW Executive Air Charter.
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MAKE YOUR BUSINESS
STAND OUT with high quality photos tailored to your brand.
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Customers want to connect with the people behind your brand and a great first step in doing that is having quality headshots and group photos of your team displayed on your website and social media.
Photographer Call to schedule your consultation.
954.478.9791
dawnaiellophotography.com
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About Dr. J... A Winter Park native, Dr. J has been helping families improve their health and wellness for nearly a decade. While she treats patients from all walks of life, she has a passion for pregnancy, pediatrics, and athletes of all ages.
CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT. FOUNDATION WELLNESS (321) 800-8191 AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/W I N T E R PA R K
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APRIL 2023
city scene
Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1
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1: Cynthia Hanenau, Vernon Rainwater & Betsy Gardner Eckbert commemorate the Chamber’s 100th Anniversary 2: FunHundred! features immersive art experiences at Mead Botanical Garden 3: Chamber team celebrates 100 years of economic progress in Winter Park 4: Creative “100” signs tell a story of Winter Park’s roots & ingenuity 5: Winter Park History Museum celebrates newest exhibition, “Retailing Our Story” 6: Exhibit highlights “100 Years of Winter Park’s Bistros, Boutiques & Businesses” 7: Museum Executive Director Christy Grieger in front of “Pioneer Store” Photography by Ruth Shively
Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @WinterParkCityLifestyle
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C I T Y SC E N E
Let’s Start With a Conversation… One Person to Another. For over 26 years, I have based my real estate business on communication. That’s why when you call my number, it’s my cell phone that rings.
AND THAT’S WHEN WE START BUILDING A PERSONAL CONNECTION. At Primac Realty, you’re more than just a listing. You’re the reason we do what we do every day. Paula Wells, Realtor®
407-463-8792 | PRIMACPROPERTIES.COM
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WINTER PARK CITY LIFESTYLE™ Good news happening right in your neighborhood.
Inspiration for your best local life.
Exclusive giveaways.
STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM
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Local content by local creators.
SCAN TO CONNECT
AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/W I N T E R PA R K
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APRIL 2023
business monthly MAXIMIZE YOUR INVESTMENT INCOME
A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.
With Global Property Services, you’ll have true peace of mind, confident that your property and renters are being taken care of. It’s a sense of confidence that your investment property is being professionally managed to help maximize its potential. So If you’ve been managing a property on your own or working with another property management company, this may be a new and welcomed experience for you.
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM GPS
Full-service property management | Marketing strategies that get results Rental income maximized to its true potential | Industry-leading technology Attorney-prepared lease agreements | 24/7 maintenance
Now and Then: A Walking Tour of Hannibal Square Walk the streets of today while immersing yourself in the history of yesterday... when Hannibal Square was a segregated self-sustaining community. Heritage Center Chief Historian Fairolyn Livingston takes guests on a fascinating, fact-filled journey that showcases the resiliency of the residents who made this a successful vibrant thriving community. Along the tour, historic sites such as Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church, Welbourne Day Care and Nursery, and the Masonic Lodge constructed in 1927 are featured.
Scan to read more.
Call Today for a FREE Rental Analysis
(407) 715-2652 globalpropertyservicesllc.com 10
B USIN E SS M ON T H LY
Want to be featured?
Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/WinterPark
Health and Sustainability are On The Menu at Just Salad NYC-based fast-casual restaurant chain, Just Salad, has officially entered the Orlando market with two new restaurants that opened in February. The Winter Park restaurant is located at 415 South Orlando Avenue, with the other located in Winter Garden. Just Salad's mission is to serve delicious food based on health and sustainability. Guests will be able to choose from over 15 chef-designed salads, wraps, warm bowls, avocado toast, soups and smoothies.
Scan to read more.
National Expansion for Winter Park's Own Foxtail Coffee Foxtail Coffee Co., a coffee chain that opened its first location in Winter Park in 2016, is taking its popular products and service nationwide. Having already grown to more than 40 locations in Florida and Georgia, they expect to have 60 stores soon, including its first in Nevada, said president Alex Tchekmeian, who founded the business with lifelong friend, Iain Yeakle.
Scan to read more.
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AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/W I N T E R PA R K
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APRIL 2023
local experiences The best places and things to do in our area.
You only live once; so make the most of it! Choose your next adventure and broaden your horizons, increase your heart rate, and try something new that will fill your bucket. Youʼll be glad you did!
Our Picks to Choose Your Next Adventure
Bob’s Balloons
BOBʼS BALLOONS: Soar through the sky with Bobʼs Balloons! This 20-year veteran boasts more than 100 regular takeoff and landing sites throughout Central Florida, floating high above the Orlando, Kissimmee and Walt Disney World areas. 8297 Champions Gate Blvd, Championsgate, Florida 33896 SKYDIVE DELAND: Are you ready to fly? World-renowned Skydive DeLand is just a short drive away and loves first-time jumpers. Skydive from nearly 14,000 feet with a professional tandem instructor and see where it leads! 1600 Flight Line Blvd, DeLand, Florida 32724 MAXFLIGHT HELICOPTER SER VICES: MaxFlight Helicopter Services offers exhilarating daytime and nighttime tours for the whole family. Take in aerial views from all four corners of Central Florida. If you get hooked, check out their pilot training school! 4010 4th St, Kissimmee, Florida 34741 WESTGATE R IVER R ANCH: Broaden your horizons with a glamping experience thatʼs second to none. Escape to Westgate River Ranch, where Florida nature meets resort-style amenities and provides all of the thrill of camping without exactly roughing it. 3200 River Ranch Blvd, River Ranch, Florida 33867 WINTER PAR K SCENIC BOAT TOUR : You’ve lived in Central Florida for how many years and never experienced the Scenic Boat Tour? Then it’s time to broaden your horizons and explore Winter Parkʼs lakes and beautiful homes from a new point of view. 312 E Morse Blvd, Winter Park, Florida 32789
Scan for more photos and the full list.
Want to recommend a local experience? Scan the QR code and message us on Instagram.
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LOCA L E X P E R IE N C E S
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Property Management Made Easy A Winning Formula
GPS Realty & Property Management loves working with reluctant landlords and investors “on purpose”.
Unlike most, Tere Alvarez’s entry into property management was about as convoluted as it gets. “I bought a condo here in Orlando and since I was a real estate agent in South Florida, I figured I’d manage the rental property myself. I can’t tell you what a huge mistake that was.” One day her tenant called and said there was a leak. She didn’t have a network set up, and by the time she found a vendor (who wasn’t returning her calls) and managed to get here, it was too late. “I didn’t know where to begin. By the time I arrived I had mold growing four feet up the walls and had to vacate the tenant. I lost so much money simply because I didn’t have the right vendors or process in place.” Tere shares this cautionary tale to help others avoid her mistake. “It happens often, when a landlord wants to self-manage and figures they’re going to save 8 to 10 percent a month by doing it themselves. Then when something goes wrong, it goes really wrong.” When she moved to Orlando shortly after, Tere decided to dedicate herself to doing property management for absentee owners. Coincidentally, it was the middle of the Great Recession and homes were selling for $40,000. “I had people from all over the world calling me to ask if I’d check out their properties and manage them. These two things, happening at the same time, cemented my career in property management.”
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O UR TOWN | PR OFESSIONAL S E RVI CE S
Meet Tere Alvarez Property management is a lot more than rent collection, Tere explains. “My owners look for someone who’s hyper local with boots on the ground, a very personal relationship and longevity in the business.” Then there’s the other side of the equation. “When an owner is ready to sell, I automatically shift them back to the referring realtor. Realtors are our number one referring source. We do pay referrals and residuals. It’s a very symbiotic relationship.”
ARTICLE BY RUTH SHIVELY
No Upcharges
Tenant Guarantee
Easy-Out Contract
“We’re very transparent. When we have an expense, we upload the original invoice to the owner. A lot of companies upcharge, adding on a 10 or 15 percent service charge above and beyond a vendor’s invoice.” Tere also notes that GPS uses flat-fee pricing across the board. “Clients know how much our services are going to cost without having to guess. Many companies have tiered levels, like silver, bronze and gold. We don’t. It’s one size fits all.”
“This is another practice that really separates us from the competition,” Tere points out. “If we place a tenant in your property and they have to break the lease for whatever reason — like a death in the family or job relocation — we’ll place a new tenant at no extra cost. We don’t double-charge. And we guarantee our renters that they’re going to live there at least a year before we’d even think about charging them a placement fee.”
If for some reason an owner needs to cancel their contract because they or a family member plan to live in the home again, or they’re retiring and want to come back to Florida, clients don’t have to pay to cancel the contract. “This is a real standout for us,” says Tere. “These are real life scenarios. All they have to do is give me notice. They’re not paying extra money, buying out their contract or jumping through hoops.”
AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/W I N T E R PA R K
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T R E N D SE T T E R | L IFE + C ULTURE
ARTICLE BY RUTH SHIVELY PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAWN AIELLO PHOTOGRAPHY
air travel should be THE WAY IT
I’m on a plane from Orlando to Key West and we land in another 30 minutes. But here’s what’s truly remarkable... I just left the house about an hour ago! No exaggeration. This is what flying with a private charter company is all about. And after the experience we had with the KW Executive Air Charter crew, I wouldn’t recommend flying with anyone else. Andy Yasurek and owner Joe Lamiroult have been working together since 2008. “My official title is flight coordinator/pilot but as far as the business goes, I run the day-to-day operation,” Andy explained. Joe is the chief pilot. And along with their office manager/accountant Natalia Morris, chief pilot Greg Rupp and operations director Mac Magraw, they have up to seven pilots on the crew. The fleet consists of four Cessna 441 Conquest II turboprops and their newest toy, a Citation CJ4 Gen2 — the fastest single-pilot in production. CONTINUED >
SKIP THE COMMERCIAL AIRLINES AND DISCOVER THE BENEFITS OF FLYING WITH A PRIVATE CHARTER COMPANY. AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/W I N T E R PA R K
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“Whatever their status in life, regardless of how much money they have, we treat everyone the same. We know them, we know their families.” “All of us have worn captain’s uniforms in the past, but none of us like it. And that’s not why people come to us. It’s because we treat everyone like family and have fun,” Andy shared. “Whatever their status in life, regardless of how much money they have, we treat everyone the same. We know them, we know their families.” He remembers one year at Augusta on Easter day. “I had nothing better to do so I ran to the store and got little baskets to put on the seats. When the kids boarded the plane, they were like ‘Look, the Easter Bunny came to the airplane last night!’” It’s moments like this that speak volumes about the company. While the idea of chartering a jet for your next vacation or business trip may seem out of reach, consider this. When we arrived at Orlando Executive Airport, we parked our cars and were boarding the aircraft a few minutes later. While waiting for one other plane to finish its takeoff, we settled into our seats. Minutes later we were in the air enjoying the stunning view. And the flight back from Key West was no different. There were no long waits anywhere, like standing in line for ticketing and TSA screening. And the entire process was seamless. Then there’s the cost. “We get a lot of small groups like bachelor parties. Let’s say you and your friends want to fly to an island in the Bahamas using a commercial airline. We’re talking between $800 and $1,200, and it’s going to take you all day to get there,” Andy estimates. “It’s actually cheaper for you to pool your money and fly with us. Plus, you don’t have to worry about missing the plane because you control the schedule. And you can bring all your stuff, like a beer cooler. We’ve had
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T R E N D SE T T E R | L IFE + C ULTURE
clients bring everything from tile for replacing their bathroom floor to an actual toilet!” Sometimes things don’t pan out and trips fall through. That’s when the crew gets creative. “I had a group of people who were on their way to do a ski trip. Unfortunately, there was a bad ice storm and the slopes were closed. The whole trip went south instantly. My client, his daughter and her friends were stuck in Washington at the airport,” Andy recalls. “So, he calls me up and the next thing you know I’ve got the whole thing set up — the Atlantis Bahamas resort in Nassau. ‘Why Atlantis,’ he wanted to know. I’ll tell you why. You’ve got a group of girls who aren’t going to want anything to do with you. Atlantis has everything possible for them to do — a water park, swimming with sharks and laying by the pool for starters. They can do all this and never leave the area. Maybe you want to go to the casino,” he explained. “Better yet, you could set it up to where it’s all-inclusive, and you don’t have to keep handing them a credit card. So that’s what we did.” It’s not hard to tell that Andy and the rest of the crew love what they do. “Before your team got here, I told Natalia, ‘I can’t wait to see the expressions on their faces because here’s what’s going to happen. You guys are going to get on the plane and be like, ‘This is cool.’ But it’s not going to hit you until you’re on the ground, you smell that salt air and you’re in Key West. Then you grab a bite to eat. And when you get back you’re going to say, ‘My goodness, I just flew to Key West for lunch!’ You did something epic and you’re home in time for dinner. That is why people fly private.”
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Picture Great Vacations! Check out these simple tips for taking impressive travel photos on your next trip
ARTICLE BY RUTH SHIVELY PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAWN AIELLO PHOTOGRAPHY
As a photographer who works with families celebrating significant life milestones, Dawn Aiello enjoys challenging her skills while on vacation. “It’s a fun element of travel for me. Every time I vacation, I take a different approach.”
KEEPING IT FRESH
As a professional photographer, one of the fun elements of traveling for me is taking incredible images. And every time I travel, I try to explore different media to keep it exciting. I make a challenge out of it.
EYES ON THE HORIZON
It’s common for people to take pictures of nature or architecture. Although the sunset and horizon are blurred out in this image, it’s important to keep the horizon perfectly straight since that’s how our eyes naturally view it.
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R OA D T R IP | A RTS + CU LTURE
PATIENCE IS A VIRTUE
Sometimes capturing epic travel photos means being patient! My sister and I drove to this lake three times hunting an amazing Colorado sunrise or sunset. It didn’t work out until our last free morning, but boy was it worth it!
TELLING A BETTER STORY When you’ve chosen a subject, like the pagoda in this image, look around to see if there are any elements in the foreground (the space between you and the subject) that you can use to frame your subject. Here I chose to step further away from the pagoda and use the cherry blossoms to frame the subject in my photo. This not only makes the image more interesting, but also adds more context to the story in the image. I was lucky to be in Japan during the two weeks each year that those trees are in bloom. This extra detail identified the time of year I visited and the beauty of the grounds surrounding this pagoda.
GEAR UP ACCORDINGLY
Consider your destination and whether your equipment’s appropriate for the climate and activities you’ll be doing. This image is from a trip to the Dominican Republic. I knew we’d go catamaranning and thought it would be fun to have a waterproof camera to use while we were in the ocean. If you’re traveling to a sandy or cold destination, make sure your gear’s weather-sealed and rated for specific temperatures. It’s surprising how fast a battery can drain in colder weather!
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L e a v e Yo u r Troubles Behind ARTICLE BY RUTH SHIVELY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDY CINGOLANI
THE ONLY DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WINTER PARK PLAYHOUSE AND BROADWAY IS THE SIZE OF THE STAGE.
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B ACK STAGE | EN TERTA INME NT
At The Winter Park Playhouse it’s all musicals, all the time. “We’re Central Florida’s only professional musical theatre, which means all we do is musicals — mostly lesser or unknown smaller-scale works,” explains co-founder Heather Alexander, adding that all the artists, actors, musicians and technicians are professionals, not volunteers, which makes the quality exceptional. “We like to call ourselves the ‘Forget Your Troubles Theatre,’” she quips. “No deep, dark, depressing stuff. It’s a happy place — a family-oriented, welcoming space that’s entertaining, uplifting and inspiring.”
Partner and artistic director Roy Alan wholeheartedly agrees. “We started the Playhouse to help keep musical theatre alive and make it more accessible to audiences. It goes back to the ’30s when people would spend five cents to see Fred and Ginger Rogers and forget about the Depression. We describe it as a place to escape.” Roy adds that the quality of performances is as good as anything you can see at the Dr. Phillips Center — or on Broadway, for that matter. “Many of our performers are outstanding artists who’ve moved here from New York where they worked on Broadway.
“It isn’t just the show that provides a sense of community and belonging. That happens the moment patrons walk through the door. They feel great commitment to this place as more than just a theatre.”
We have incredible musical directors and musicians, because that’s the way it’s meant to be. We started the Playhouse to keep musical theatre alive. It’s an original American art form, just like jazz.” The Playhouse also holds the annual Florida Festival of New Musicals, an international event that fosters the development of new musicals and the artistic growth of writers and composers. “We invite them from around the world to submit their work,” Roy explains. “A panel pores over the material and we choose six shows to present at our festival in June.” Now in its 21st year, the Playhouse is a family-oriented, welcoming space. “You can literally walk through our doors, leave your troubles outside and have a wonderful time being entertained,” Heather explains. “And it isn’t only the show that provides a sense of community. That happens the moment you step inside.”
ON THE ROSTER MAINSTAGE: Year-round series of six musicals, new or rarely produced in the region MONTHLY SPOTLIGHT CABARET: Premiers showcasing singers in a “New York” style cabaret ONE-NIGHT-ONLY: Quarterly events featuring professional singers & musicians
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The Joys of Train Travel Through Europe From Old World elegance to towering snow-covered peaks, train travel takes you there. ARTICLE BY RUTH SHIVELY
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T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TR AVE L
There are probably as many travel styles as there are people in the world. But when it comes right down to it, traveling through Europe by train is a category all its own. And it’s all about the experience. Travel agent Kim Huber shares her tips for choosing a rail vacation that will have you reminiscing for years to come — whether it’s treating yourself to the height of luxury, crafting an independent tour, or simply hopping from city to city. One of Europe’s top luxury travel experiences is the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. For those looking to experience the opulence of the “Golden Age of Train Travel,” it’s the real deal. “They basically took the vintage rail cars from the 1880s and 1890s and brought them back, keeping a lot of the Old World elegance,” Kim notes. “The wood-paneled interiors, beautiful lush tapestries, antique fixtures and sumptuous upholstery transport you to another world.” The current-day luxury rail line that travels between London and Paris, Verona, Venice and Rome features luxurious accommodations, world-class cuisine and the romantic mystery of days past. Another, even more popular excursion is the original east-west route from Paris to Istanbul, with stops in Vienna, Budapest and Bucharest. All of the itineraries include guided private tours, as well as exclusive activities such as a private concert at a castle. “These are once-in-a-lifetime experiences that you can customize in any number of ways,” she explains. “Add extra nights in any destination, experience a trip in reverse or take a round trip. You can combine set itineraries or create your own.”
Kim’s personal favorites are a handful of Switzerland train excursions. “These are more of what I’d call ‘middle ground’ as far as cost. The country’s trains serve as transportation, of course. But they’re also a great option for guided independent tours.” The five-day, four-night Bernina Express journey begins and ends in Zurich, traveling south through eastern Switzerland to Chur and Tirano, Italy, then west to the gorgeous lakeside town of Lugano and back to Zurich. “Along the way, you’ll be awed by the mountainous backdrop, pristine lakes and panoramic views,” she notes. The Glacier Express, on the other hand, is a totally different experience. “On the five-day, four-night route from Zurich to Geneva through western Switzerland, the train will cross over 291 bridges, go through 91 tunnels, wind through the Swiss Alps and traverse the countryside. You’ll also stay in St Moritz and Zermatt — home of the Matterhorn — along the way,” Kim explains, noting that these excursions include hotel accommodations, meals and some guided activities. “One of the more fascinating trips is the Express through Switzerland’s Centovalli, which means ‘a hundred valleys.’ It takes you through the Swiss Alps as well as northern Italy. It’s visually stunning, and there are tons of twists and turns and tunnels. This one’s on my personal bucket list,” she shares. “Besides being appealing for its views and infrastructure, it’s even more interesting from an engineering standpoint. The route includes 83 bridges and 34 tunnels!”
“There are also shorter and less expensive options for booking the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. If someone just wants to test out the experience, these options can be a little more pocket friendly.” CONTINUED >
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“Apps are a must for train and bus travel. Rail Europe’s is an easy way to check timetables and maps, find out what platform or location to go to, when it’s arriving, if it’s late.” For travelers who are planning a trip to Europe and just want to go from city to city, Kim highly recommends using a travel agent. “Typically, when we’re helping clients plan travel for Europe, we decide where they want to go and where they want to stay. And we look at the train as their transportation,” she explains. “Nobody has to deal with rental cars or driving, or worry about taxis. And they have an amazing system there.” She also notes that trains are an easy, economical way of getting around. “I went to Germany in
the summer and it was €9 for as many train rides as I wanted to take.” Of course, when you’re traveling by train you have to plan accordingly. “I always guide people not to overpack. A carry-on bag and a backpack are ideal. There’s just not enough space for a suitcase,” she cautions. “I’ve experienced traveling with someone who insisted on bringing a large suitcase and took up one of the train seats with it. We got a lot of dirty looks. Plus, there’s always the possibility that a conductor will ask you to pay for the extra seat.”
L E A R N M O R E : Travel is Kim Huber’s passion and her expertise. Her per-
sonal experiences, travel knowledge and preferred access to special offers have helped hundreds of clients create stress-free vacation plans at no extra cost to them. Thinking about travel again? “Let’s talk,” Kim offers with enthusiasm. “What story do you want to tell? We’re here to make those travel dreams a reality.”
H T T P S : // W W W. A DV E N T U R E S A N D C R U I S E S .C O M I N S TAG R A M : #A DV E N T U R E S A N D C R U I S E S
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T R AV E L J OU R N A L | TR AVE L
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Sleep Inside, Outside 4 Incredible places to (literally) sleep under the stars
Photography by Amangiri, USA
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O UT D OOR A DV E N T U R E | TRAVE L
It’s always magical to spend a night sleeping under the stars. In decades past, adventure seekers have packed the SUV or camper with tents and gear for ‘roughin’ it’ in the great outdoors. But the swanky and exploding category of luxury outdoor hotel is something to investigate for an unforgettable, next-level experience. For those who prefer glamping rather than pitching their own tent fireside, here are a few options that incorporate sweeping views and a unique
opportunity for travelers to be more authentically embedded in the landscape of the place they’re visiting. These resorts have bucket list-worthy rooms that capture the best of both the luxury resort experience and the outdoors. Whether you crave the dry heat of the remote Utah desert or the luminous beauty of the Northern Lights, we’ve curated a short list of some places you *must* check out.
Photography by Amangiri, USA
Amangiri, Utah In southern Utah, Amangiri is a five star resort perfect for an adventurous weekend in the desert. However, it is the simple rooms built to emphasize the beauty of Canyon Point that truly make it an incredible place to stay. Each suite has an outdoor lounge and fireplace with private pools or rooftop terraces available too. Don’t miss a dip in the ‘gram-worthy pool, which wraps around the landscape’s curved dunes and arid plateaus. CONTINUED >
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Photography by Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort
Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, Finland These arctic igloos make Urho Kekkonen National Park look like a dreamy winter wonderland. Snuggle up inside the glass-roofed globe and watch the dancing northern lights overhead. Get immersed in the world of northern lights, midnight sun and other miracles of this world-renowned arctic resort. Just bundle up before stepping outside – temperatures can drop to -22 degrees!
Photography by Valtteri Hirvonen
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O UT D OOR A DV E N T U R E | TRAVE L
Hacienda Na Xamena, Ibiza The Spanish island Ibiza boasts lush pine forests, hidden calas (cove beaches) and Hacienda Na Xamena, a resort suspended on a cliff 600 feet above the Mediterranean. Guests flock to its spa for the eight saltwater thalassotherapy (seawater as a form of therapy) lagoons, which are linked together with waterfalls. Swim to the edge of the pool and drink in the sweeping sea vistas. Photography Hacienda Na Xamena, Ibiza ©
Photography by Pacuare Lodge
Pacuare Lodge, Costa Rica This jungle hideaway is so out there, you have to whitewater raft down a river or ride a gondola to get there. A network of hanging bridges connect the villas, which have thatched roofs, plantation teak wood floors, rattan furniture and private plunge pools. In the evening, zip 400 feet down a cable for a meal at the Nest, a platform at the top of a ceiba tree, then take a night-time stroll along romantic pathways lit by candles and lanterns.
Photography by Pacuare Lodge
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APRIL 2023
events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area. NOW-J ULY 5T H
EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival
2 00 EPCOT CEN TER DR , LAKE B UE NA V I STA , F L 328 30 | 9 :0 0 A M This popular and fragrant festival springs to life once again, decked out with hanging baskets, topiaries, flower towers and more. Spend the day enjoying fresh cuisine, colorful gardens and vibrant entertainment, including the popular Garden Rocks Concert Series at the American Gardens Theatre. And of course, fresh flavors will be on the menu at Outdoor Kitchens throughout the park! A P RIL 6T H
Taste of Baldwin Park Food & Wine - Spring Edition
NEW BROAD ST, BALDW IN PAR K , O R L A NDO, F L 328 1 4 | 6 :0 0 P M Mark your calendar for the 2023 Spring Edition of the Taste of Baldwin Park! This annual foodie night out features unlimited tastings with all-inclusive wines, craft beer, food stations and a live band. It's the perfect night out with friends or a great time for date night. VIP ticket holders get early entry with no lines and a full liquor bar. A PR I L 1 8T H- 2 3 RD
CHICAGO
DR PHILLIPS CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, 445 S MAGNOLIA AVE, ORLANDO, FL | TIMES VARY After 25 years, CHICAGO is still the one musical with everything that makes Broadway shimmy-shake: a universal tale of fame, fortune and all that jazz, with one show-stopping song after another and the most astonishing dancing youʼve ever seen. As they celebrate their 25th anniversary, come see why the name on everyoneʼs lips is still ... CHICAGO. A P RIL 2 2 N D
14th Annual Hannibal Square Heritage Center Folk/Urban Art Festival
642 W N EW EN G LAN D AVE, W I NT E R PA R K, F L 327 8 9 | DAT E S & T I ME S VA RY Celebrate Black History Month throughout Central Florida this April, beginning with a visit to Winter Parkʼs Hannibal Square Heritage Center. Presented by the Center and Crealdé School of Art, the festival celebrates Central Floridaʼs richly diverse culture through artwork, educational entertainment and music, featuring the works of more than 25 talented folk and urban artists. Admission is free. CONTINUED >
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EVENTS CONTINUED
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15th Annual Winter Park Paint Out
ALBIN POLASEK MUSEUM & SCULPTURE GARDENS | TIMES VARY Twenty-three professionally acclaimed plein air artists will paint at the Polasek Museum and other locations throughout Winter Park and Orlando. Art lovers are invited to watch the artists at work and attend free painting demonstrations. Stop by to see and purchase works produced during the event — a portion of the proceeds go the support the museum. Itʼs a must-see!
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