After living in Miami for 27 years, I realized I didn't know much about the sunshine state besides my surroundings in South Florida. I had visited Orlando several times while vacationing at Disney, and had always been compelled to stay. In January 2010, I decided that I would make the move. Walt Disney World is now practically in my backyard and I love the mouse as much now as I did when I was 2. However, being on a college student budget, I decided to explore all that Central Florida has to offer, without the theme park expenses. Orlando is in the dead center of some of the most amazing sights and places that Florida has to offer, so with camera and tote bag in hand I set out to explore the different Shades of Sunshine.

This blog is designed to help you navigate through the various cities in Central Florida. You will find that at the bottom of each review I have included a “Don't Miss List” which gives you a quick overview of the experiences I found the most captivating. Please feel free to share any stories, pictures or recommend any good places, after all I'm still pretty new to the area. I'd also love to hear your feedback.