With Valentine’s Day approaching, we thought we’d take our extensive knowledge of the Central Florida area and use it to help you plan a romantic date night for you and your love. From sunset cruises to fine dining and stargazing, there is something for everyone. Mindfully created for you, here are 10 Romantic Date Central Florida Date Night Ideas.

S U N S E T  C R U I S E

There are many places in Central Florida to take a sunset cruise, but our top pick for a romantic sunset ride this year is with Rusty Anchor Mount Dora . Take a scenic boat tour of the beautiful lakes and canals in the area and watch the sun set over the horizon. This is the perfect setting for a romantic evening, with a glass of wine, soft music, and beautiful views. If you're looking for something closer to the heart of Orlando, be sure to check out Winter Park's Scenic Boat Tour. Winter Park boat tours started in 1938 and take you on a ride through the charming city's canals where you can see Winter Park's flora and fauna along with some of the most spectacular mansions in the state along the route.

F I N E  D I N I N G

    Enjoy a candlelit dinner at one of Central Florida's many fine dining restaurants, such as The Boheme, The Capital Grille, and Better Than Sex. The delicious food, attentive service, and elegant ambiance will make for a truly special evening no matter which option you choose.

R O M A N T I C  G A R D E N  S T R O L L

    These two gardens are absolutely perfect for taking a stroll through beautiful lush gardens hand in hand with your love. Harry P. Leu Gardens in Orlando is a 50-acre oasis filled with stunning flowers, lush greenery, and peaceful nooks. Take a leisurely stroll through the garden and enjoy the beauty of nature together. Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales is a serene and peaceful garden and bird sanctuary that seem to take you back in time as you explore the almost 100 year old grounds.

S T A R  G A Z I N G

    Take a close up look at the cosmos with Florida's largest publicly accessible refractor at the Orlando Science Center Crosby Observatory. Starting in April of 2023, you can head over to the Emil Buehler Perpetual Trust Planetarium at Seminole State College and take in a breathtaking display of the night sky. Learn about the stars, planets, and galaxies while snuggled up next to your loved one.

H O T  A I R  B A L L O O N  R I D E 

    Soar high above the treetops with a romantic hot air balloon ride over Central Florida. Admire the beautiful scenery and experience the thrill of floating through the sky. Orlando Balloon Rides, Bob’s Balloons, and Magic Sunrise Ballooning are some of the local favorites to fly with.

W I N E  T A S T I N G

Visit one of Central Florida's many wineries for a romantic evening of wine tasting and relaxation. Savor the flavors of locally produced wines and enjoy each other's company. We suggest wine tasting at Lakeridge Winery, Quantum Leap Winery, or Wine Bar George. All are great options!

S P A  D A Y

Treat yourselves to a relaxing spa day at one of the many luxurious spa resorts in the area. Indulge in massages, facials, and other pampering treatments before enjoying a romantic dinner together. We highly recommend both The Ritz Carlton Spa Orlando and Grande Lakes Orlando Resort for a zen and romantic experience. 

B E A C H  P I C N I C

    Pack a picnic basket and head to one of Central Florida's beautiful beaches for a romantic evening under the stars. Enjoy a delicious meal, watch the sunset, and relax on the sand. Maybe even rent a home on New Smyrna, Cocoa or Daytona Beach and make a romantic weekend out of it.

H O R S E - D R A W N  C A R R I A G E  R I D E 

    Take a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets of historic downtown areas such as Mount Dora or Winter Park. Admire the charming architecture, quaint shops, and beautiful scenery.

M O V I E  N I G H T

Enjoy a classic movie night at the Enzian Theater in Maitland, a non-profit independent cinema that specializes in arthouse, foreign, and classic films. This theater offers a full bar and a variety of food options. Another great option for a romantic movie night is Harry P Leu Gardens. Bring your own picnic blanket & basket, lay under the stars, snuggle up with your love, and enjoy a movie surrounded by beautiful gardens.

   Central Florida offers a variety of romantic experiences for couples looking for a special evening together. Whether you prefer a scenic boat tour, a relaxing spa day, or a movie night, there is something for everyone. So plan a special evening for two and enjoy all the romance that Central Florida has to offer! 

Love & Good Vibes, 

Zen Living Realty

Mindfully created for you by Zen Living Realty

Looking to take a zen-cation to escape life’s hustle and bustle? Whether your idea of zen is watching breathtaking sunsets by the ocean, hiking alongside a river, or doing absolutely nothing and relaxing in a cozy home, we’ve got you covered! We carefully curated a list of 10 of Florida’s Most ZEN Airbnb’s sure to get you the rest and relaxation you need. 

NEAREST TOWN: KEY WEST, FL

SLEEPS: 2

MINIMUM STAY: NO MINIMUM

RATES FROM: $613/night

Take in the majesty and serenity of the Key West waters from this unique and truly iconic Tiki Suite! Taking the best parts of boat life and combining them with the space and comforts of home, this rental was designed to be a unique glamping experience on the water. While enjoying your stay, don’t forget to make use of the hammock, stand-up paddle-boards and snorkel gear. In addition to the various bird species that are a regular sight, you can occasionally see dolphins, manatees, stingrays, conch, starfish, plus many other small fish that enjoy the shade beneath the Tiki. 

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NEAREST TOWN: ORLANDO, FL

SLEEPS: 2

MINIMUM STAY: 2 NIGHTS

RATES FROM: $135/night

Unique in every possible way, the Beehive Treehouse started as an art of love during Covid and quickly became a project that has fought the attention of superstar singers looking to disconnect from everything but still be close to everything. The Beehive Treehouse contains a Queen bedroom, drawer space, full bathroom, Nespresso coffee maker, 80-inch tv, private balcony overlooking the main wedding venue, outdoor claw tub and custom chandelier. This rental is perfect for couples looking for a relaxing and unique place to lay their heads after a long action packed-day in Orlando.

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NEAREST TOWN: MIAMI BEACH, FL

SLEEPS: 3

MINIMUM STAY: NO MINIMUM

RATES FROM: $160/night

The highlight of this modern and freshly renovated large beachfront studio apartment in Miami Beach is its 180 degree ocean views of the crystal clear water. Guests will have full access to the building including free valet parking for one car per unit, direct beach access, and free access to the onsite pool, gym, & tennis court. 

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NEAREST TOWN: NAPLES, FL

SLEEPS: 2

MINIMUM STAY: 2 NIGHTS

RATES FROM: $155/night

Located on a 5 acre organic farm, a private room on the peaceful & quiet Naples Preserve is the perfect fit for the outdoor lover in you. It’s a miniature sanctuary for those who like to connect with nature, watch for shooting stars, listen to the birds, and let the crickets sing them to sleep. The rental’s Superhosts like to consider this room a "glamping" experience.The room is located on a second story cabana giving optimal view of the surrounding area! 

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NEAREST TOWN: ST. AUGUSTINE, FL

SLEEPS: 2

MINIMUM STAY: 2 NIGHTS

RATES FROM: $129/night

Perfect for singles, couples, or pairs of friends looking to explore this historic Florida shore, this rental offers unique accommodations complete with a custom-designed interior, laid-back beach vibe, and complimentary parking pass for downtown adventures and Anastasia State Park! Feel your worries melt away as the tropical breeze rustles the private garden and you enjoy unique features such as hanging hammocks and a screened-in porch with a film projector! When you’re not relaxing in this coastal oasis, explore the nearby Anastasia State Park or lounge on the white-sand St. Augustine Beach. Downtown is minutes away, while the renowned amphitheater within a 10-minute walk!

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NEAREST TOWN: CUDJOE KEY, FL

SLEEPS: 4

MINIMUM STAY: 7 NIGHTS

RATES FROM: $365/night

Listed by an Airbnb Superhost, this rental at Cudjoe Key is the perfect spot for fishing, lobstering, and snorkeling. Community amenities include tennis, pickleball, bocce ball, heated pool, hot tub, designated swim area in the cove, pool table, ping pong, and darts. Not to mention a spectacular sunrise view! 

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NEAREST TOWN: HERNANDO, FL

SLEEPS: 5

MINIMUM STAY: 3 NIGHTS

RATES FROM: $181/night

The Nature House is a secluded cabin retreat nestled alongside a canal with access to the Withlacoochee River launch from the backyard! The cabin boasts an entire wall of windows, a comforting electric fireplace, huge loft, large great room, and two spacious bedrooms. There is no limit to the number of activities that can be performed at The Nature House - Spring hopping, Bike Trail riding, ATV trails, Kayaking, Canoeing, Fishing, Horse Riding/Shows, Boating, or even swim with the Manatees.Two two-person canoes are available for use, but do require a waiver to be signed. And if you’re not feeling so adventurous… you can just go there, relax, do nothing, & let your worries disappear as you chill inside this cozy home. 

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NEAREST TOWN: ANNA MARIA, FL

SLEEPS: 10

MINIMUM STAY: 3 NIGHTS

RATES FROM: $246/night

This seaside home in Anna Maria comes with its perks! Aside from the beautiful ocean view, booking this rental grants you access to a private beach just steps away from the home. Extra perks include a professional linen service as well as bikes, beach chairs, towels and toys to use at your convenience during your stay!

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NEAREST TOWN: SUGARLOAF KEY, FL

SLEEPS: 12

MINIMUM STAY: 3 NIGHTS

RATES FROM: $1,590/night

Able to sleep twelve, Palms Resort is the perfect stay for a family (or friend) getaway. Enjoy the breathtaking vistas of Sugarloaf’s sandy beaches, palm trees and the Atlantic Ocean from this amazing Beach House. As you step inside, you walk into a newly renovated home with a chic island vibe. Guests can enjoy decks on all levels with sweeping views of the ocean. Feast yourself on this stunning visual beauty, and enjoy breathtaking sunrises and glorious sunsets from the home’s rooftop viewing platform.

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NEAREST TOWN: MARATHON, FL

SLEEPS: 8

MINIMUM STAY: 7 NIGHTS

RATES FROM: $2,500/night

Last but most CERTAINLY NOT LEAST…

An Airbnb on your very own private island. Yes, you read correctly! This breathtakingly beautiful home is located on its own private island right off the City of Marathon in the Florida Keys. The home features 3 bedrooms, two baths, a 12 ft veranda that surrounds the house, a 21 ft Carolina Skiff for transportation to and from the island, and a helipad should you prefer an airborne method of transportation. 

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We hope you enjoyed looking through this list that was mindfully created for those looking for a peaceful Florida vacation. Don't forget to bookmark this page so you can use the links to easily check the availability of these rentals for your next zen-cation.

Good Vibes Always, 

Zen Living Realty 

*Please keep in mind all listing information was posted in January of 2023, and is subject to change.*

As the new year quickly approaches, embrace three New Year’s Eve rituals to ring in 2023 in the ZEN mode. Reflect on the past, be in the present and welcome the future.

Reflecting on the past is key to preparing for the new year to come. Take some time to contemplate experiences conquered, lessons gathered and memories made. For some, journaling is a helpful tool for reflection. While contemplating the more strenuous challenges of the year, be mindful and kind to yourself. Concentrate on self awareness and growth. Pat yourself on the back for accomplishments and recognize that in the moment the best that could be achieved was.

Be present as you prepare to ring in the new year. Take in your surroundings and express gratitude for all the positive aspects of your life in its current state. Even if you are not where you would like to be, be mindful of the path traveled (hopefully one which you have just reflected on) and appreciate the efforts made to get you to your current destination. If attending a New Year’s Eve celebration pay attention to the details and be present in the wonder of it all. Celebrate the moments of ending one year and starting another.

Cleanse your space. Many embrace a cleansing ritual releasing old energy and welcoming in new. Traditional rituals include burning white sage or palo santo, asking negative energy that no longer serves to exit, and welcoming light, clean energy in. Cleansing can also be accomplished in the literal sense. Grab that bucket and mop and give your home a good scrub. A clean space is a happy space and symbolic of a new year and fresh start. A thorough decluttering also supports a Zen vibe. Analyze your items and if you no longer find them purposeful or joyful donate them out to worthy charities.

Embrace the new year with a smile by welcoming the future. Thoughtfully consider what you’d like to achieve in the upcoming months and do some pre-planning. Create a vision board for yourself, jot down ideas in your journal or write out some specific goals. Resolutions should be kept mindful, positive and adaptable. Don’t set yourself up for failure by creating a lengthy list or rigid expectations. Keep goals simple and amendable. Focus on healthy habits for the mind, body and soul.

By ritualistically reflecting on the past, being in the present and welcoming the future this New Year’s Eve you are giving yourself a head start to a successful and prosperous 2023. Happy New Year!

We're seeing a lot of movement in the Orlando area this winter. Let's look at the stats from November 2022, which showed a fall in home price as inventory rises. The median home price for November recorded at $360,000, a small decrease when compared with October.

We also saw more inventory, with 7,197 properties available in November! Homes averaged 43 days on the market in November, which is more than what we saw in October, despite more availability.

Orlando Market Report - December 2022

Orlando's MLS reports a decrease in new listings by 19% from October, so we'll be keeping a close watch for new homes for our buyers! Please see the report below for additional details and reach out to us to learn more about homes in your specific market at 407-800-2717!

It’s a must during the busy holiday season to skip the dishes and go to brunch with the family. While Central Florida simply overflows with restaurants serving up delicious brunches these five take the cake.

Step into Maxine’s On Shine for their Rejuicination Brunch held on weekends from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Each Friday through Sunday, patrons dine off a delectable menu. Opening acts include fried green tomatoes and crab cakes, biscuits and gravy, and chef’s seasonal salad. Omelet dishes feature brie shrimp and bacon, lobster, and lumberjack. Sip on Sangria or a mimosa before contemplating main dish choices including catch of the day, stout braised brisket and New York strip. Finish it off with some creme brulee or Key lime pie for dessert. Centrally located in downtown Orlando, Maxine’s On Shine is a convenient choice for a tasty experience. 

The Reel Fish Coastal Kitchen combines a bit of local history with big taste. With an award winning menu inspired from the 1930’s days of “fish camp” traditions, brunch runs each Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tried, true and tasty selections bring back customers regularly. Fan favorites include shrimp and corn chowder, blue crab and sweet potato hash, fried chicken and waffles and rustic french toast. Take advantage of both a generous raw bar and buy one get one cocktail specials. 

Bottomless brunch awaits at Mia’s Italian Kitchen. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. over indulge in decadent Italian cuisine. Choices are unlimited so come hungry and leave happy. Start off with a salad, minestrone or giant meatball. Palettes are pleased with both traditional and trendy options. Pan pizzas come personal sized. Try the sausage and peppers or prosciutto and pesto. Mix it up with a breakfast pizza or pepperoni and cheese waffle. Save some room for tiramisu or if you are too full get it to go. 

Brunch at DOMU dominates the taste buds. This little eatery features creative Japanese cuisine and can be found in the Audubon Park District of Orlando. A realized dream come true for chef and owner Sonny Nguyen, DOMU offers homemade ramen and an extensive tasty brunch menu. Brunch is held each Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Come check it out. You won’t be disappointed. 

The weekend brunch at Winter Park’s The Ravenous Pig is fit for a king. This gastropub keeps it real with regular menu changes calling customers back for more. Taste buds go wild from 11:30 to 3 p.m. A savory menu is sure to make everyone in the party happy. Popular choices include crab cake benedict, butternut squash tagliatelle and ravenous pub burger. Those with a sweet tooth can indulge in a chocolate tart or salted caramel apple fritter. It’s the weekend so be sure to indulge in a glass or two of the brunch punch! 

Finding great ZEN gifts for everyone on your list and sticking to your budget is tough. Shopping is hard when your heart and your budget don’t align. Luckily there’s plenty of presents for mindful gift givers that don’t break the bank.

Aromatherapy gifts are on everyone’s list. Options are seemingly limitless and include scented candles, bath gels, lotions, bath bombs and more. Scented oils pair brilliantly with diffusers. And, diffusers often come with soft color changing lights and pleasing designs. Be sure to double check which oils are toxic to animals when selecting diffuser oils for pet owners.

There’s nothing more Zen than the sound of wind flowing through the leaves of the trees, unless you add the sound of music. Wind chimes soothe the soul and bring peace to the mind. With so many designs it’s easy to pick one to match the personality of whomever you are gifting it to. Materials wind chimes are constructed from include a variety of medals to drift wood and even beads, crystals or glass. Even the person who seems to have everything can find a place on the patio to hang this piece of musical art.

Warm the soul and the body with a cozy blanket. Throw blankets are practical and practically perfect for one and all. With so many varieties they are even fun to shop for. Fabric choices are fabulous. Chunky knit, fuzzy fleece and comfy cotton choices come in a rainbow of colors. Those on your list will feel extra special when receiving this warm gift in their favorite color. Even the guys will appreciate a super soft throw to keep cozy with while watching the big game.

Himalayan salt lamps are illuminating gifts that bring a spark of joy. Throughout time health benefits such as increasing energy levels, reducing airborne toxins and allergens, better sleep and decreasing stress have been attributed to these beautiful glowing lamps. And, at the very least it is a lovely night light.

Wrap up a Zen garden and alleviate a bit of stress. When tended to, these little setups encourage the habit of centering oneself. Desk size Zen gardens are great gifts for professionals. Taking up little space, gardens taken to work serve as a reminder for break taking. Designed in different shapes and sizes most will come natural sand, small rocks and pebbles. There may be a buddha or lotus flower to encourage serenity and bring a smile.

Zen gift brings a smile and lightness of the heart to both the giver and the receiver. When giving Zen minded presents it truly is the thought that counts.

The sun is shining and Santa Claus is coming to town. Check out these great places for the perfect holiday photo in Orlando.

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day but even more important when it’s with Santa. As part of the Festival of Trees Gifts of the Season 2022, The Orlando Museum of Art invites families to enjoy Breakfast with Santa Claushimself on November 12th and 19th. Indulge in reindeer games, crafts, and general merrymaking. Facepainters and balloon artists add to the excitement. Guests receive early entry into the exhibit.

Orlando families declare  The Santa Workshop Experience at ICON Park never disappoints. From over the top Christmas decorations to the big man himself there will be pictures aplenty. A dedicated team of photographers are on hand to get the best shots of kids interacting with Santa. Families can add to the magic with surprise gifts for their little one. Continue the fun with a ride on the Pearl Express Train. Good times are had from November 5th thru December 24th. Reservations required. 

Get to know Santa at Wall Crawl Santa. Guests are welcomed into a holiday themed studio with colorful backdrops. A good time is guaranteed with storytelling, pictures and lots of laughter. Participants may snap their own shots or turn over photography duties to onsite professionals. Perfect for kids unsure about Santa and for parents who love lots of options, A variety of props, various scenery, and optional outfit changes make Wall Crawl Santa both kid and parent friendly. Santa makes a stop in Celebration and brings a bit of cold weather with him. Nightly snow falls are expected during the Now Snowing Celebration< from November 24th until Christmas Eve. Santa and Mrs. Claus are ready to collect wish lists and take photos with those on the nice list. Pets are welcome on Wednesday Pet Nights. Soak up the season with live music, Christmas carols and much more! There’s more snow during The Fezziwig Festival at Village Park in Hunter's Creek. Santa Claus lights up the tree at the start of the Festival on December 3rd. Live music, food trucks, craft vendors and more set the scene for a marvelous time. The Festival continues on December 10th and 17th.

Santa is popping up all around Orlando during the 2022 holiday season. Bring the kids to say hello, make memories and drop us a photo if you go at 407-800-2717 or office@zenlivingrealty.com!

We're seeing a lot of movement in the Orlando area as fall begins. Let's look at the stats from October 2022, which showed a fall in home price as inventory rises. The median home price for August recorded at $365,000, a small decrease when compared with September.

We also saw more inventory, with 7,128 properties available in October! Homes averaged 38 days on the market in October, which is more than what we saw in September, despite more availability.

Orlando Market Report - November 2022

Orlando's MLS reports a decrease in new listings by 8.3% from September, so we'll be keeping a close watch for new homes for our buyers! Please see the report below for additional details and reach out to us to learn more about homes in your specific market!

There are many reasons to work with a mindful real estate agent but the time, relationship, and atmosphere they invest in their real estate clients may make all the difference in creating a positive real estate experience.

Mindful real estate agents stay in the here and now. They strive to find the right place at the right time. And, if the process takes a little longer, then that is just fine with them. Those mastering the art of mindfulness realize the real estate journey proceeds at its own pace. There is no rushing perfection in the search for the best fitting home for their client’s needs.

Taking time also creates better listeners. Mindful real estate agents want to take in the whole picture, striving for clarity. They focus on their ability to really understand what is desired in a home search or home sale. By honing their listening skills agents are easier able to facilitate a seamless process.

It’s not all about the money to be made for mindful real estate agents either. They view the client and agent relationship as a partnership and proceed accordingly. Streamline realtors often get sidetracked by sales and statistics, trying to match up zip codes and square footage and close that deal as soon as possible. Often they can overlook the nuances and charm of their clients by seeking a quick sale. Of course, mindful agents also want to be successful with their closings yet view their clients more as partners and not just customers.

By emphasizing partnerships, mindful real estate agents place the focus on each individual case. They desire to create a pleasant and comforting experience during the process. It may take a bit more effort to find the right space to call home and mindful real estate agents realize that.

The real estate market can be topsy turvy. It’s important to have a professional on your side to help navigate. One of the best perks of hiring a mindful agent is the calm atmosphere they manifest. Well versed in keeping a peaceful mindset, their confident yet calm energy can ease a potentially stressful time. Let’s face it, less stress is the best stress. Buying a home is a very big deal and can become overwhelming. Having a real estate professional who is skillful with meditative and relaxing techniques is definitely a plus. A zen attitude is definitely contagious and most certainly uplifting which can easily be the difference between a positive or negative real estate experience. Please reach out to us at 407-800-2717 if we can help in any way.

Thanksgiving is just around the corner. Many of the amazing restaurants located around Orlando are offering holiday dinners, and that’s definitely something to be thankful about. So skip the dishes and dine in style. There are plentiful choices from elegant dinners to brilliant buffets and even pick up options.

The Venetian Chop House will be hosting a delicious Thanksgiving feast. Their five course menu is mouth watering and features either roasted turkey breast or bacon wrapped filet mignon for entrees. Sides include butter roasted sweet potato and maple glazed baby carrots. Check out their complete menu here.

Pull up a chair and indulge in dinner at the Ritz Carlton where one and all are invited to dinner. A tasty farm to table option featuring seafood or turkey is available at Primo with side dish ingredients fresh from the Primo garden. At Knife and Spoon a more traditional three course offering is found. And, those preferring to dine at home will not be disappointed with the Ritz Carlon offering a take out selection as well.

Indulge in a decadence at the Waldorf Astoria where it's all about choice this Thanksgiving. Palate pleasing options include both buffets and dinners in the elegant establishment’s restaurants. Those selecting to dine at La Luce can opt for a plate of Chef’s “fall favorites” or ala carte items. Oscars is going all out with their Thanksgiving buffet with selections ranging from turkey to salmon to pasta. Reservations are required.

Orlando families who want to host but not be stuck in the kitchen can stop into Seasons 52 for a warm and serve option. Simply pick up your Thanksgiving feast on Wednesday, refrigerate overnight and warm when ready. A full meal includes a field greens salad and traditional turkey dinner with all the trimmings. The dessert menu threatens pumpkin overload with mini pumpkin pies, pumpkin cakes and pumpkin mousse. Reserve your dinner box here.

There’s plenty to be grateful for this Thanksgiving holiday. Add pampering yourself to the list and start your holiday season off right by dining out or picking up an order to go. You deserve it. You also deserve to work with the best and most zen real estate team! Please reach out to us at 407-800-2717 if we can help in any way.