Whether you find yourself in Orlando on a long layover or you'd like to take off a day or two from the theme parks, as a Florida native and theme park veteran I'd be happy to show you around.
Metropolitan Orlando is a sprawling region where, away from the theme parks, you'll find adrenaline-pumping adventures, charming small towns, soothing springs and mysterious rivers, exotic wildlife, miles of beachfront, and America's portal into space. Perhaps that's why it's the most popular travel destination in America's most touristed state -- the first city in American history to welcome more than 60 million visitors. Naturally, the majority of those visitors were drawn here by seven of the world's Top Ten theme parks, but as you'll see from my tour descriptions, there's far more to Orlando and Central Florida than twirling teacups and cartoon characters.
Whether you'd prefer to spend a day at Disney, explore the Space Coast, or take a motorcycle tour on some remote two-lane roads, my background as a travel writer specializing in Florida destinations will help make your visit one you'll never forget.
• Former Cast Member, Walt Disney World: Ferryboat pilot, Jungle Cruise skipper, steam train conductor, desk clerk (Disney Inn), improv comedian (Italian pavilion, Epcot).
• Writer, Walt Disney World: Contributing writer in the development of promotions, shows, special events, publications, attractions.
• VISIT FLORIDA: On-camera talent and writer for the state's tourism division. Blogs, articles, and videos focus on rural and remote destinations, history, and adventure throughout the state.
• Travel Writer & Author: Florida specialist with features appearing in newspapers, magazines, and books published by Fodor's, AAA, AA, Rand McNally, AOL, Budget Travel and many others.
• Motojournalist: Author of the nation's best-selling two-wheel travel guide, 'Great American Motorcycle Tours', and National Geographic's 'USA 101' and 'Ten Best of Everything: National Parks'.
• WorldStrides tour guide in Washington, DC (licensed) and Orlando.
Motorcycle tours will require guests to possess a valid motorcycle endorsement on their license.