The Orlando Real - Life in Orlando

On the Road to Improvement: I-4 Updates + Developments

By Roger Jimenez

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is making significant strides in improving the I-4 corridor, thanks to the ambitious project that began in 2020 - I-4 Beyond the Ultimate Project. While construction is well underway in Orange and Osceola counties, some noteworthy achievements have already been unveiled in Seminole County.

Innovative Interchanges and Enhanced Connection

One noteworthy milestone is the introduction of an innovative Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI) at the intersection of Interstate 4 (I-4) and County Road (C.R.) 532 near Champions Gate. This DDI promises smoother traffic flow and improved safety for commuters. Furthermore, cyclists and pedestrians will appreciate the new bike lanes and sidewalks…

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EDGE Escape Now Open in Kissimmee

By Holley Long

Are you looking to put your puzzle-solving skills to the ultimate test? EDGE Escape, open now in Kissimmee, lets you do just that with its array of themed escape rooms. Read on to learn more about this new spot for family fun and adventure, as well as our own experience while trying to escape one of the rooms! 

What is EDGE? 

EDGE Escape takes guests on a thrilling journey through rooms full of clues and puzzles. Each room has a unique and exciting theme, with a mission that will have your heart pounding by the end. Unlike other escape rooms I’ve been through, you won’t just move on to the next section without solving the one you’re in. You have to figure out the answers, or doors simply will not open. 

If that makes you…

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Relax with an Ice Cold Beer at the Orlando Beer Spa

By Yasmene Warren

Two words you never pictured being next to each other in the same sentence just touched down in Orlando, and you’re going to want to check it out. We’re talking about Orlando’s Beer Spa, and it’s taking relaxation to new heights!

All About Beer Spa

Beer Spa is Florida’s first beer-focused spa, and it’s located on International Drive just minutes away from SeaWorld.

Some people choose to crack open a cold beer when they want to unwind, and others opt for a relaxing day at the spa. Thanks to Beer Spa, you can do both!

Beer Spa describes itself as an unconventional spa experience where beer is the center of attention. Guests can soak in barrel-like tubs and take on the signature Beer Treatment for all their relaxation…

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U.S. Olympic Team Trials Heading to Orlando in 2024

By Roger Jimenez

In case you haven’t heard yet - Orlando is proud to be one of the host cities for the Olympic Trials and is currently gearing up to host an extraordinary event that will draw the nation's top-tier long-distance runners to compete at the 2024 U.S. Olympic Team Trials Marathon, right here in our city.

What is happening?

Set to take place on February 3, 2024, this remarkable gathering is a partnership between Orange County, Track Shack Events, the Greater Orlando Sports Commission, USA Track & Field, and the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee.

Elite male and female runners will take to the streets for a marathon course in downtown Orlando, striving for victory and the chance to represent Team USA in the upcoming…

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Events in Orlando for Hispanic Heritage Month

By Roger Jimenez

Get ready as Orlando is gearing up to honor the diversity of Hispanic and Latino cultures that have left an indelible mark on the city.

Hispanic Heritage Month runs from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 and Central Florida is preparing to host a series of lively and heartwarming events that showcase the enduring legacy of Hispanic communities. Join us as we delve into the exciting lineup of activities set to take place in and around Orlando!

Hispanic Cultural Celebration @ Central Florida Zoo

Sept. 22, (5 PM to ~8PM)

$6  OR  $40 Family 4-Pack

As part of their Sunset Celebrations event, the Central Florida Zoo is opening up after-hours to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month! Join your favorite animals and furry friends as the zoo…

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Enjoy Mexican Delights at Quesa Loco in North Orlando

By Yasmene Warren

The flavors at this Mexican restaurant will drive you — as the name suggests — loco! Quesa Loco is bringing authentic Mexican tastes to Orlando, and we’re going to show you just what you’ve been missing! Let’s check it out.

All About Quesa Loco

Quesa Loco is a Mexican restaurant on West Fairbanks Avenue in Orlando. It has been serving up Mexican delights at affordable prices since its first opening in January 2022.

What initially began as a food truck started by love birds Daniel King and Silvia King has since blossomed into two locations, with the other being on East Semoran Boulevard in Apopka.

With street food being what this business knows best, you’ll find the finest Mexican flavors that Orlando has to offer just…

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The Orlando Guide to September's Top Festivals

By Roger Jimenez

September brings with it a treasure trove of festivals and celebrations. Whether you’re a music enthusiast or a foodie, an art aficionado or an outdoor adventurer, there's something for everyone in this month's festival lineup, many of them free of charge!

Blue Bamboo Jazz Festival

Sept. 14-17 

Blue Bamboo Center For The Arts | Free Admission (reservations recommended)

The Blue Bamboo Center for the Arts, located in Winter Park, is throwing their 2nd annual jazz festival! This 4 day celebration showcases a diverse group of local jazz artists, as well as a Jazz Photography exhibit highlighting the work of historic photographer Roger Kailins.

WizardFest

Sept. 16 at 7 PM

The Abbey | $15 Admission

…

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Sapporo Izakaya & Ramen in Metrowest

By Holley Long

Orlando recently gained a new restaurant offering ramen and other traditional Japanese dishes. Sapporo Izakaya & Ramen is located on the west side of Orlando in Metrowest, and it’s definitely worth a visit if you find yourself on this side of town.

The Restaurant

Sapporo Izakaya & Ramen opened this spring in MetroWest, near Orlando’s Chinatown shopping center. Previously, the shopping center was the location of Sapporo Ramen, a well-loved eatery offering authentic Japanese noodles and other traditional dishes, before the restaurant closed in 2019. 

The restaurant is named after the city in Japan where it was founded - Sapporo. This is the largest city north of Tokyo, and the largest city on Hokkaido, which is the…

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Visit Orlando's Magical Dining 2023 Highlights

By Roger Jimenez

It’s finally time to take part in the annual Magical Dining event that takes place all over Orlando. Last year, we wrote a beginner’s guide to Magical Dining, so if you're new to the area, this event will be a pleasant surprise for you! Organized by Visit Orlando, Magical Dining offers an exciting way to enjoy the best local food while also making a positive impact on the community by supporting a great cause.

What is it?

Marking its 18th year, Magical Dining is one of the best bargain events to occur in Orlando's culinary scene. Going on every day until October 1, 2023, participating restaurants transform their offerings into limited-time 3-course or 5-course menus, exclusively for this event. 

For the modest price of $40 or…

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Orlando Brunch Spot Brings 'Egg-Celente' Bites to I-Drive

By Yasmene Warren

Orlando’s tourist hot spot International Drive is serving up brunch excellence, and we’ve got the scoop on why they put the “egg” in Egg-Celente. Let’s check it out!

What is Egg-Celente?

Egg-Celente is a breakfast and brunch spot on I-Drive in Orlando that seeks to take your taste buds on an invigorating culinary journey first thing in the morning.

This restaurant takes Spanish-American flavors and turns them into one-of-a-kind dishes that make our mouths water!

Egg-Celente makes it their mission to ignite your senses and inspire your palate, so if you’re feeling creative and want to take on feast-worthy flavors yourself, stop by from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday, or 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sundays! 

What We…

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