3rd time lucky - part 2

**Doc** · 20-01-2006, 18:48

Back again to type another instalment in our trip.

News Years Day
Today we decided not to head to a park, in fact as you may come to realise we aren't really big into theme parks. We love Florida for the weather, shopping, and being able easily get there with a cheapish flight.
I'm Australian, so most of our holidays (pre TJ) have been to places like Thailand, Vietnam or home to OZ.
Anyway back to our trip. Today we headed up to Mt Dora for a picnic by the lake, after breakfast at Cracker Barrel. One look at the map and we were away. But, instead of taking the short route up the turnpike, I went the long way. And it took ages. So two hours later we arrived on the shores of the lake at Mt Dora.
Guess who forgot the drinks and snacks ! So a quick trip to the gas station to buy some cold drinks.
After the food TJ insisted on feeding the birds, but mum is then worryed that an alligator will suddenly spring from the lake and grab her. I thought holidays were supposed to be worry free[?]
First time in Mt Dora and its really nice. Easy to walk around, interesting shops (my in-laws would love the antique shops) and more importantly some ice cream shops ! So one mint choc chip cone and one chocolate cup later, we were sat in the sun watching the people go by. Bliss.
After a shorter trip home (via the turnpike) we had a nice swim and then headed to Red Lobster for tea. Now I am not normally that keen on seafood, but we went there last time, and it was good .... so give it another try. Again not too bad. I love the non alcoholic cocktails (responsible driver) and the garlic prawns are great.

2nd Jan
Heading for Cypress Gardens today. Have been there before, and it has some good rides for TJ, and also plenty of room to burn some energy in the gardens. Picniced on the grass watching the ski show, but TJ was starting to feel the heat/jet lag I think, so home we went.
I am undecided about Cypress Gardens, they have a water park now so its becoming quite big, but areas of the park are quite shabby, and although I know the Ski Show has been going for years, it does lack the zipp of the main theme park shows.

**Ray&Sarah** · 20-01-2006, 20:42

Another great report Doc, and a lovely picture. We plan to visit Mount Dora on our next trip, haven't managed to get there yet.[msnsmile2]

**kimwo** · 20-01-2006, 21:08

Great report , never been to Mount Dora will have to try and do it next time[msnsmile]

Kim

**Liam_Sandie** · 20-01-2006, 21:39

Great report and lovely pic, thanks for sharing!!! Mt Dora is beautiful, we were there in October...well worth a visit! The Keylime shop is just amazing.....[msnwink][msnwink][msnwink]

**E. Cosgrove** · 20-01-2006, 23:41

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Ray&Sarah
Another great report Doc, and a lovely picture. We plan to visit Mount Dora on our next trip, haven't managed to get there yet.[msnsmile2]
[/quote]
It is definitely on our list as well Sarah and with 3 trips planned for this year, surely we will get there one day?

**Madabouttigger** · 20-01-2006, 23:51

We loved Mt Dora, whilst up that way we also did Blue Springs National Park and saw the manatee swimming in the lake - really beautiful and worth a visit.