Planning a budget friendly visit to Orlando Florida

This morning my Facebook feed was hit with a list entitled "The top ten things to do in Orlando" which began with a nod to "the mouse" and then quickly stated that:

"Aside from the rides, slides and twisty things, the city of Orlando also offers plenty of other worthwhile ways to spend your time in Florida and from the Museum of Art to the Citrus Bowl, check out the Orlando top 10 list below that’s packed-full of fountains, culture and ‘gators galore."

I was excited to see this list, and then disappointed that 5 of the 10 were major theme parks, Disney and Sea World... however Universal didn't make the cut? 

I was a little confused about the criteria... but hey, it is just one person's list... which got me to thinking... who am I to complain if I do not make a list of my own?

This original list was forwarded by The Best Damn Race who is bringing their event to Orlando in March. As a runner, I understand why the list attracted their attention because the #1 stop on the original list was Lake Eola, where the race will begin and end, so for this reason.... I will start with Lake Eola as well!

1. Lake Eola:

Nestled in the heart of downtown Orlando, this lake is home to a fountain, running path, outdoor bandshell and large play area for children. It is .9 miles around the lake... so runners can quickly rack up some miles while taking in the sites and sounds of downtown.       

 

2. Thornton Park

For those coming to Orlando and wanting to stay downtown, the surrounding Thorton Park area is filled with quaint Bistros and shops. 

 


TIP: The downtown Lymmo Bus system is operated by Linx and can get you around the area at no cost. 

    

3. Uptown Altamonte

About a fifteen minute drive north of downtown is Uptown Altamonte, the feature of which is Cranes Roost Park who's nightly (and free) cooreographed water show is a must see. Christmas Lights and fourth of July fireworks bring families and friends together at this popular local meeting place, which is also attached to the Altamonte Mall and a large AMC IMAX theater, there is something for everyone here!

4. The Enzian Theater

Between downtown and the drive to Altamonte you would pass by this theater, tucked quietly right of the main street in Maitland. Surrounded by weeping oaks, a bubbling fountain, and a beautiful courtyard, Enzian is a unique movie-going experience.

From their web site you will find that they are, "Central Florida's only full-time, non-for-profit alternative cinema, Enzian exists to entertain, inspire, educate, and connect the community through film. For more than 25 years Enzian has championed the belief that "Film Is Art." Along with first-run independent features, Enzian offers a variety of special events, such the nationally-recognized Florida Film Festival."

                             

4. Wekiwa Springs

About 45 minutes away is Wekiwa Springs,  where visitors the can "relax in a natural setting, enjoy a picnic, or take a swim in the cool spring. Canoeists and kayakers can paddle along the Wekiva River and Rock Springs Run. Thirteen miles of trails provide opportunities for hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding."

I have done a great deal of train running here and it is not unusual to see deer and other wildlife along the paths. Families can picnic and enjoy the cool and consistent water of the springs.

 

5. Wet and Wild

If you want to stay away from the high dollar theme parks but still want a day of excitement and family fun while breaking away from the heat, Wet and Wild is a great option!




6. Old Town

Another lesser known Option is Old Town, where you can "eat shop and ride" attractions that are a blast from the past!




Sure there is more...

Point Orlando and the entire I-Drive area....

Where hundreds of hotels, restaurants and entertainment venues are within walking distance of eachother.... 

OR

The Town of Celebration...

the quaint city that Disney built.... 

OR EVEN

The University of Central Florida...







Where you might be able to catch a game at Brighthouse stadium!

The point is, there are so many things to do in Orlando outside of the big theme parks... everyone has a list... what is on yours?

Healing the Body: Thai Massage

There was a time when getting a massage was a part of pampering, an afternoon of luxury and an escape from reality. 

Not for a runner.

Massage is an essential part of a training plan. Not only will it help runners reach a higher level of performance, but will also assist in avoiding injury. 

There are many types of massage, both deep-tissue and sports massage are popular among athletes. Lately however, I have been exploring an alternative therapy: 
Thai Massage. 

Developed in Thailand, this practice combines massage and assisted stretching. It is preformed on large mat on the floor, with both the client and therapist dressed comfortably. 

If you read about the history and practice of Thai massage, it is often referred to assisted yoga. The moving and manipulation of the body is all preformed by the therapist. You may experience that the hardest task the client needs to complete during the hour is trying to relax and let the therapist work.

I received my first Thai Massage, and every one since, at The Studio Spa and Garden of Healing. This is where I go for all of my massage and facial treatments. 


There were moments during my first session that I questioned what exactly I had gotten myself into. Lying down on my back with the therapists feet working my hamstrings while his hands massaged the arch of my foot was mentally awkward - however, when I felt my hip flexors relax and my IT Band ease.... my mind got on-board with the movements. 

We spend a lot of money on race registrations, travel, and accommodations. Much of this is pre-paid, non-refundable, and paid month in advance. One injury can ruin these plans, and derail a training program completely. Making an investment in the health and maintenance of your body can keep you on track.

Many people who understand this concept and agree with the need for massage, end up jumping from therapist to therapist to get good deals. In this day of Groupon and Living Social Vouchers, it is tempting. I admit, it was Groupon that originally brought me to the Studio Spa, but it was the staff that made me a loyal client.

If you are looking for a new restaurant or experience - jumping around is fine, and even fun. When it comes to your body, your skin and muscles and bones and health - it is essential that you develop a relationship with your therapist. After multiple visits, they know what your body feels like, what is normal, and how to give you the best possible treatment. 

Recognizing the temptation to move around, and rooted in a core belief that Spa Services should be accessible to the average person, The Studio Spa has many methods of offering affordable services to their clientele. Their Facebook Followers and Email recipients are offered Daily Specials. These specials do not need to be used the day they are offered, but can be banked for future use. Spa memberships for even greater discounts are also available.

It is true. You can stretch yourself. You can get a foam roller try and smooth out those aches and loosen up your joints. It hurts, it is hard to do effectively, and ultimately  many of us do not do it the way we should. That is why I love my moments of Zen in the hands of my therapist, I know that this is a part of my running journey I cannot afford to compromise.

If you get massage, I encourage you to try Thai Massage. If you are in the Orlando area, The Studio Spa and Garden of Healing (1245 Michigan Ave, Winter Park - 407-332-4772) is the place to go.... you will not be disappointed.