Lost in Florida: September 2012

Back in March, I didn't know if I was going to continue with this blog. Mostly because I was thinking of moving out Florida. But now, I'm moving out of Florida in September. I haven't quite said "goodbye" to Florida, yet.

I've had some great traveling adventures this summer, so I think I'll go "retro" and start back logging my travel. It's not all Florida. There's some Mexico, California and Arizona in there. Also, I took some great day trips in Florida. I don't think I'm done yet.

But back to Winter Garden......

My friend Sarah lives in Clermont, Florida which "blends" into Winter Park and Groveland (Urban Sprawl.. gotta love it.) Downtown Winter Garden isn't new to me. In 2009, while I was training for the Camino de Santiago, I trained on the West Orange Trail. The West Orange Trail is 26 miles of wide bike path that might have a hint of hills in an otherwise flat Florida.

The trail also goes through Plant Street of Downtown Winter Garden. On any given weekend, you'll find all manner of Spandex, yoga pants and sweaty exercisers enjoying a coffee at the coffee shops along Plant Street.

There's a lovely "Old Florida" feel through downtown. A little bit of Retro/Art Deco and small town charm. There's even an old time theater that shows movie classics.

On Saturdays, there's a lovely farmer's market that seems to be very popular with the locals.

I also have a thing for French Cafes and there's a cafe that serves up crepes and quiches and a huge variety of pastries. Sweet Traditions is also on Park Avenue in Winter Park.