Growing up in southern Alabama and the Florida panhandle, I am no stranger to hurricanes. These weather events have been sprinkled across my story over the years, always just a “fact of life” as a southern girl. With that said, there have been a few that have stood out over the years – such as…
The Don CeSar: Highlights from Our Stay at the Pink Palace of Florida
To celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary and the end of a long pregnancy, Justin and I booked a two night stay at The Don CeSar, one of Florida’s most iconic hotels located on St. Pete Beach, just west of Tampa. The Don CeSar provided us with the perfect dose of laidback luxury for our adult-only…
Best Eats of 2019
Although the year didn’t afford me much time for blogging (as I was quite occupied trip planning for clients!), 2019 sure didn’t stop me from enjoying some great eats! As it has become a Global Heartbeat Travel tradition, I am laying out all of my Best Eats of the Year, so that if you find…
Best Eats of 2018
2018 was a great year for great food. Take a look at my list of top eats around the globe and get my tips on how you can have a memorable meal, too!
Big Changes for the Swiss Family Domeck
Guys, I have some big news to share with you… For months, I have been trying to write this post. Literally, for months I have been mulling over how to update you on our family’s story and explain my emotions behind it all. My post was going to be called “A Lifetime of Hellos and…
To Orlando, With Love
Dear Orlando, From the moment I first saw the breaking news last Sunday, I can’t stop thinking about you and the emotional upheaval caused by the horrifying attack at the Pulse Nightclub, just two miles from my little green house. Nor the senseless murder of a talented young musician at a theater down the street from that…
Eating Through 2015
As I look back on my 2015, I’m struck by the diverse range of experiences I had in the world of food. And because I love lists and record-keeping, I’m sharing my most memorable food experiences of 2015. I’d love for you to share some of your top eats, too! EATING IN ASIA DRINKING FROM COCONUTS IN…
My Favorite Orlando Restaurants
I am counting down the days until I return to Orlando to reunite with friends and family over the Christmas holidays. Ever since we moved to Zurich this summer, I’ve been missing my peeps like whoa! But I must admit that people aren’t the only reason I am looking forward to visiting sunny Florida: I cannot wait to eat at some…
Orlando by Neighborhood
Did you know that there is more to Orlando, Florida than a famous cartoon mouse, a famous orca whale, and a famous British wizard? No? Then, please, allow me to introduce you to the real Orlando in this “More Than Mouse Ears” series. First, we focused on the creative and collaborative culture emerging from DOWNTOWN ORLANDO. Today, let us survey Orlando by neighborhood to understand…
More Than Mouse Ears: Orlando, Florida
Orlando, Florida. Best known for Mickey, Minnie and Cinderella’s castle, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the controversial splash of Shamu, and copious amounts of sunshine, heat, and humidity. Right? Yes, the gang’s all here… and we really do love them! BUT unless you live in Central Florida, you may not realize that Orlando has so…
Orlando’s Oasis: Leu Gardens
In the heart of Orlando, Florida, lies a marvelous oasis brimming with lush vegetation, winding paths, cheery birdsong, secluded gazebos, rose gardens, and one of the largest collections of camellias in the United States. With such an incredible amount of floral biodiversity, the Harry P. Leu Gardens is a paradise unto itself. In fact, this historical landmark is a local…