If you’re looking for something fun and exciting to do outside of Orlando, check out Crystal River. Less than 2 hours away, Crystal River is a Wildlife Sanctuary where you are almost guaranteed to see Manatees. The natural springs in the river keep the water at a constant 72 degrees, which in the winter months brings in hundreds of Manatees. In the summer months, there are only a few “regulars” who remain in Crystal River and Crystal Bay. Most manatees will migrate to warmer waters. We went last weekend, and while we spotted only a handful of manatees, we had a great time cruising around the bay and still had the opportunity to get up close with them in the water. We have already made our plans to go back in the winter! Local tour companies offer guided snorkel excursions, as well as kayak rentals. We used RiverVentures who I highly recommend. Be sure that the company you choose provides all equipment needed, including a wetsuit!

This October, Walt Disney World will combine my two favorite past times: running and eating. October 2nd marks the inauguration of Disney’s Wine and Dine Half Marathon. This is the first and only half marathon held by Disney that takes place after hours. Starting at 10pm, runners will make their way from the Wide World of Sports, through Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, and finish at Epcot. Not up to 13.1 miles? This is also the first and only race that is offered as a relay event. The first runner will cover 4.8 miles, while the second finishes up the 8.3 remaining. The best part: the after hours party. From the moment you cross the finish line until 3am you will have exclusive access to Epcot’s Food and Wine Festival. Visit the Official Disney Sports website for more information!

Just a few I-4 exits away from Florida Spirit is the charming town of Celebration. On May 14th, Celebration town center will be transformed into a host of hope and inspiration. The American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life will take over Celebration’s Lakeside Park with hundreds of supporters, camping and walking for 18+ hours in the fight against cancer. This year the theme is Broadway, meaning the participants will decorate their campsite in the style of their favorite Broadway shows.
This is a great and inspiring event to participate in, or just visit. Vendors including food stands, facepainters, and homemade crafts will be set up along the park, all the proceeds benefiting the American Cancer Society. For more information please visit the Relay for Life homepage!

I am sure many of you have felt like you ran all around a Disney Theme Park on vacation.  This time you have a chance to really run through a theme and for a good cause.

On February 28 run a 5K race for The V Foundation for Cancer Research at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.  A 5K race is a great way to get some exercise and something good for your body and cancer research.  Enjoy a morning run through Disney’s Hollywood Studios and meet others who enjoy a healthy lifestyle and helping others.  The race starts at 7:00am and participants receive Inaugural ESPN Weekend 5K presented by Dick’s Sporting Goods T-shirt and a Goody Bag.  You will even get a Finisher’s Medal to show off to everyone back home what extra you did on your Disney Vacation.

For more information contact Disney at 407-938-3398 or Disney world sports website.

Brought to you by Florida Spirit Vacation Homes

There are so many hotels, resorts and timeshares out there and you might be thinking… “Why should I rent a vacation home?” – Well, in addition to all the privacy and freedom you will have, you can also benefit from vacationing on your own terms. A vacation home gives you and your family the chance to take a healthy vacation, with a kitchen of your own and a private swimming pool on your back yard.

With a fully equipped kitchen, instead of eating out you can save money and prepare a good healthy meal for you and your family. At local supermarkets and grocery stores you can find a selection of organic and natural products, including fresh Sushi at the Publix supermarket in
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Florida Spirit Vacation Homes offers private heated swimming pools in every home. Take advantage of the many activities you can enjoy in the pool that will provide you with a fun workout. Some of the homes come with fitness equipment and some communities even have gyms that are available to the guests.

If you are looking to get a full workout with a licensed trainer, you can visit Anytime Fitness, a local gym – Open 24 hours/7 days a week – that welcomes vacationers.
Have fun and stay healthy!