Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and here are some fun things to think about for your romantic weekend, especially for my fellow Floridians.
Wake Up Call: Early

It may be early, but what’s more romantic than watching the sunrise as you are floating 1,500 feet in the air? I couldn’t wait to take a hot air balloon ride with my fiancé. The setting was absolutely picture perfect, however after being in the air for about 2 minutes, I realized something new about him-he’s afraid of heights. Oops… Despite his fear, it was a beautifully peaceful experience with breathtaking views, and we now look back and laugh about how afraid he was (well, I do). Thankfully the champagne toast after landing helped calm his nerves a bit.
Outdoor Adventure

If fear of heights is holding you back from a hot air balloon ride, or the weather is just not cooperating, then start the morning by exploring the natural beauty of the area as you paddle through the headwaters of the Everglades. The Paddling Center in Kissimmee or Wekiva Springs  in Seminole County offer canoe and kayak rentals. It took my fiancé and me a little bit to get a good rhythm down, but soon we were experts and found ourselves among the most beautiful scenery. Being out on water is the perfect way to escape it all; it’s quiet, serene and absolutely breathtaking.

Picnic in the Park
The Kissimmee Lakefront Park is also ideal for a picnic on the water. Stop by a local farmer’s market, pack a lunch and soak up the Florida sun. My fiancé and I spent a wonderful afternoon making new friends and relaxing with a good book under the sunshine.  We also enjoy a stroll down Park Avenue in Winter Park.  Pick up some macarons and enjoy peaceful picnic in Central Park.

Home Sweet Home
Sometimes there is nothing better than taking a staycation.  The wide variety of Vacation Home Rentals and resorts in the area allow me to feel like I’m living in the lap of luxury when I’m literally just minutes from home.  To be honest, it helps me forget about the pile of laundry waiting to be ironed.  Imagine lounging by your own private pool, taking a dip in the hot tub or just catching up on the newest movies in your own in-home movie theater. Take it one step further and hire a personal chef to come to your home and prepare the perfect dinner. And, the best part, they do all the clean-up. That’s my idea of the perfect Valentine’s Day gift.

Moonlight Ride
And to finish off a perfectly romantic day, how about an airboat ride beneath the night’s sky. There is something magical about being on the water at night, as the light from the full moon reflects off the lake. See wildlife in their natural habitats like never before.