James Gordon James Gordon

Big Surprises in Tampa: The Gulf Coast's Most Unexpected Gem?

In this episode, Denise shares her experience visiting Tampa for the first time and discovering the city's rich culture, architecture, cuisine and more. From the historic Ybor City neighborhood to catching a glimpse of Tom Brady's former home, Denise was pleasantly surprised by this underrated Florida gem. Listen in as the Skiptown All Stars discuss Tampa's growth, influx of young residents, booming real estate market, and why they agree it's an ideal city to put down roots. Whether you're considering a move or just want to learn more about this hip cultural hub, this one has all the insider info on Tampa you've been searching for!

#emptynest #fulltank

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James Gordon James Gordon

Orlando: Life Outside the Magic Kingdom

A local Orlando expert joins the Skiptowners to discuss what life is really like in Orlando beyond the theme parks. Topics include the Orlando job market, salary levels, the local food scene with hidden gem restaurants, favorite local activities, the red hot real estate market, common rental scams to watch out for, what areas of town are popular with locals, why she is considering leaving Orlando, and insider tips for getting the most out of a visit to Orlando. Check out Orlando’s hidden gems, rental scams, food scene, lifestyle and culture, jobs and economy. If you ever thought Orlando or Central Florida might be for you, you simply can’t pass up this Skiptown All-Stars episode!

#emptynest #fulltank

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James Gordon James Gordon

Micanopy: The Coolest Square Mile in America?

Outside of Gainesville, FL sits a town we've passed a hundred times in our travels... and yet never knew existed. Turns out Northern Florida has a well-kept secret to most people passing through, and it comes in the form of just ONE square mile known as the town of Micanopy.

What's the deal with Micanopy? Well, for starters it is it's own time capsule. Roll into town past the tin-roofed houses and you'll quickly find yourself transported into the early 20th century. The cafes may have modern equipment, but the aesthetics of this unique town are free of the chain restaurants and schlocky corporate stores you can find in every suburb in America.

Join us as we recap our visit with the descendants of J.R. Mountain--an original entrepreneur who made Micanopy a must-stop for every Greyhound bus in the 1920s. We sat with two of his grandchildren, Sandra and Billy, for what ended up being a fascinating look into what it took to start a town in Old Florida--and the battles they've fought over the years to keep its beautiful soul.

Could we live there? Pop in those dorky earbuds and find out.

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James Gordon James Gordon

The Alabama Bushwack Attack: Orange Beach & Gulf Shores

Cousin Judy told us back in Episode 36 that Orange Beach, Alabama was a gem. We (okay, James) kind of dismissed it because we had so MANY other places on our list already. Then, Southern Living magazine dropped their Top 50 Southern Small Towns list and right there, at #15 and 6 hours away from where we were camped out sat Orange Beach & Gulf Shores.

We were expecting an extension of Perdido and some of the other less-than-prime Florida Panhandle beaches. We were happy to be wrong as hell. Grab yourself an Alabama Bushwacker and let us tell you everything you need to know about the beaches, the incredibly classy people and all the things to do in Southern Alabama!

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