Orlando – Mark's Travel Journal

Best American Cities for Digital Nomads

There are plenty of American cities for digital nomads to explore and enjoy.

Digital nomadism is becoming a greater trend than ever. More and more people are working remotely. What’s more, they’re finding it enjoyable and far less stressful. Not only can they work from the comfort of their home, but they can also choose where their home will be. Becoming a digital nomad offers you unique geographical freedom and the opportunity to explore many different places in the world. As long as you have a good Internet connection, you can do your job from any country in the world. Among the countries that are gaining popularity is the US. This expansive country offers a variety of landscapes, lifestyles, and opportunities. From paradise-like beaches or charming, quiet towns to vibrant urban centers, there’s something to suit every taste and preference. So, before you pack your bags, check out the best American cities for digital nomads!

Orlando, Florida

It’s no wonder that Orlando, Florida is one of the best American cities for digital nomads. Fantastic weather and amazing beaches provide a perfect opportunity to balance work with pleasure. After all, who doesn’t dream of working while enjoying the sun and occasionally dipping into the ocean?

Apart from the appeal of constant vacation, Orlando boasts excellent high-tech and educational markets, ideal for the digital nomad lifestyle. Additionally, you can opt for tourism-related work opportunities. There are plenty of tourist and kid-friendly attractions in Orlando. If you’re moving with a family, don’t miss out on Walt Disney World, Chocolate Kingdom, and SeaWorld!

Austin, Texas

Whether you enjoy music, art, or diverse cuisine, Austin is the right place for you. Plentiful co-working spaces, lively job market, high salaries, and budget-friendly cost of living make Austin the number one spot for digital nomads from all over the world. Young and fresh entrepreneurial spirit and numerous tech startups are the main attraction to people starting their careers.

Plus, there is a lot to do in your free time. The Live Music Capital of the World has it all – from world-class museums and sculpture gardens to live music venues and exquisite restaurants. In addition to that, if you’re passionate about hiking and other outdoor activities, Austin is a perfect match for you. It boasts numerous parks, nature preserves, and hiking trails.

New York, New York

New York is an urban center with a rich job market. — This dynamic and lively city is one of the best American cities for digital nomads to explore.

The Big Apple is not only considered to be one of the major urban centers in the US but in the world. This vibrant city provides ample job opportunities to digital nomads. On top of the excellent options for co-working spaces, meetups, and cafes, there is a lot to do and explore in your free time.

The city that never sleeps boasts a rich cultural scene and dynamic nightlife. There are plenty of museums, galleries, and iconic attractions you can visit. Not to mention you can take part in numerous outdoor activities. Pursuing your hobbies and passions will enable you to meet like-minded people and build your social network.

Naturally, finding yourself in a new city, alone in unfamiliar surroundings, can be daunting in the beginning. However, finding a perfect home in NYC and adding a personal touch after moving in will help you feel better. Set up your home office, paint the walls to your liking, and cozy up the place quickly – soon, it will feel like a home away from home. You’ll be ready to meet new people and enjoy your new life to the fullest.

Santa Monica, California

Located close to Los Angeles, this enchanting city offers both a thriving market for digital nomads and a laid-back lifestyle. It provides ample job opportunities in entertainment, publishing, fitness, technology, and many other sectors.

Plus, soaking in the sun at the beach or exploring the city by bike are great ways to entertain your free hours. Water sports, outdoor activities, and delicious cuisine make Santa Monica an excellent place for enthusiastic digital nomads. Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach, over thirty art galleries, and Santa Monica Food Walk – there’s always something new to try out in this coastal city.

New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans has a unique flavor and culture. — New Orleans is a unique and flamboyant city perfect for adventurous digital nomads.

This mysterious and charming city has a lot more to offer than Mardi Gras. Whether you’re looking for work in healthcare, finance, transportation, oil and energy, or defense, New Orleans is a perfect destination. There are many global companies that create an alluring international atmosphere. All of that makes New Orleans one of the best American cities for digital nomads.

Not to mention that the Big Easy is famous for its colorful history and cultural diversity. You can enjoy live jazz venues and festivals or cruising down the Mississippi and exploring the Garden District. There is a lot to do and see in this beautiful city. Of course, we could not but talk about New Orleans’s rich cuisine. Don’t miss jambalaya, beignets, gumbo, or amazing cheese boards that all cheese lovers will relish!

Things to consider before you move to one of the best American cities for digital nomads

While all these places seem tempting, it’s important to consider all factors before making a decision. An adventurous spirit and itchy feet are great, but there are practical issues you need to think about.

Having some valuable guidelines for living and working abroad will enable you to make the right choice. Which nomad-friendly destination you choose will depend on many factors. For example, think about what kind of job you’re looking for, your income, as well as your preferences. Here are some essentials to consider when choosing one of the best cities in the US:

Internet connection – when you work remotely, Internet speed becomes the key factor
housing options – rental prices and furnishing are important aspects of a nomadic lifestyle
cost of living – depending on how much you earn, choose a destination that will give you more for less
things to do and see in your free time – after all, the point of choosing this lifestyle is exploring and enjoying new things in life.

Final thoughts

Starting a digital nomad career is exciting and challenging at the same time. There are so many wonderful places in the world that it seems challenging to choose where to go. For that reason, it’s essential to consider your career options and job opportunities as well as all other factors.

The US is home to many global companies and has a dynamic job market. Not to mention all the breathtaking views, welcoming cities, and diverse and rich culture. So, check out these American cities for digital nomads and find the one that suits your lifestyle.

Florida Road Trips for Families with Kids – What Not to Miss?

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Car packed for Florida road trips for families with kids

The Sunshine State is home to various theme parks, gorgeous beaches, and citrus orchards which makes it a paradise for a family vacation. And while Florida road trips for families with kids will create unforgettable memories no matter where you go, everyone will enjoy it even more if you plan the trip properly. Still, it’s never easy to organize a vacation for a big family, especially for members with a significant age difference. Hence, drafting a plan for a fun road trip is usually challenging. However, you are in luck because it is not the case when it comes to Alligator State. From a variety of fantastic destinations, we will recommend the ones you should not miss!

Making the best route

When it comes to family vacations, you need to include everyone in the process of planning because it’s all about creating happy memories with your kids. Exploring the options in advance will help you map the route and estimate the travel expenses. Still, adding everyone’s desired destination on the list while compromising is the only guaranteed way for a successful vacation.

Once you experience the glorious weather and learn that there is no income tax in Sunshine State, you will realize why Florida is one of the most popular moving destinations for young families. According to moving professionals Miami Movers for Less, most of their clients have come here searching for a better quality of life.

Castle from the Walt Disney World in Orlando — Walt Disney World is one of the most popular family trip destinations in the US

The fun in Orlando

There is a world-famous tourist attraction in Orlando no one should miss – the Walt Disney World. Now, you might think that’s just for kids but remember, we were all kids once. Perhaps seeing heroes that shaped our childhoods will remind you of some lovely memories while your children enjoy countless fun activities.

Still, that’s not all Orlando has to offer. The city is filled with entertainment complexes, from Kennedy Space Centre to SeaWorld to ICON park. And if your children are more into magic than princes and princesses, taking them to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Universal Studio Park might be just the right thing.

Kids in the aquarium at SeaWorld — Visiting SeaWorld with your kids is an unforgettable experience

Florida Keys exotic vacation

Between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, in the southernmost parts of the US, stretches the magnificent Florida Keys. It is a tropical paradise that provides an exotic experience for tourists. And even though there are a lot of amazing beaches in the Aligator State, what can compete with Florida Keys beaches where you can swim with the dolphins? The area is sustaining on tourism, fishing, and eco-tourism. Still, even though it’s close to Miami, it’s one of the few remaining places without the light-polluted sky.

Sunset in the Florida Keys — If your family is into snorkeling and scuba diving, Florida Keys should be on your checklist

Frost Science in Miami Park district

Frost Science Museum is a must-see location on Florida road trips for families with kids. It’s impossible not to develop a love for exploring and science after visiting this complex that features a planetarium, aquarium, science laboratories, and rotating exhibitions. And the best part of this museum is, everything is interactive. There are no “don’t touch” signs, which can be a blessing for inquisitive kids.

Museum anatomy exhibition — Family road trips for families with kids can be fun and educational at the same time if they include museum visits

Orange picking in southern Florida

There is nothing like eating the fruit you’ve picked by yourself. Add some family fun into the mix, and you’ll make great memories. If southern Florida is on your trip itinerary, you can’t miss seeing the ocean of orange orchards spreading through the scenery. But when you decide to visit, plan your trip in the first part of the year. Even though orange picking is available all year round, the season is particularly blooming between December and May.

Girl picking oranges from a tree — Tasting freshly picked fruit gives us particular pleasure, especially if you did it yourself

The fun in Florida’s West Coast

When experiencing Florida’s west coast locations, Tampa is the place to see. Known for its rich historical sites, museums, amusement parks, and zoos, Tampa also has some of the best beaches in the US. Naturally, the Busch Gardens is something no one will skip visiting while here. Because where else can we have first-class African-themed family entertainment without having to travel to another continent? Safari trips, water rides, and rollercoasters are some of the activities your family can enjoy. But, adding some education to the fun time can benefit your kids a lot. Tampa has excellent museums worth the visit, like the Glazer Children’s Museum, Museum of Science and Industry, Henry B. Plant Museum, and Tampa Bay History Center.

Rollercoaster in Tampa amusement park — Tampa is the most exotic and exciting place on Florida’s west coast

Tour along Crystal River and Kings Bay

For nature-loving families, there is no greater experience than visiting Crystal River amenities. Picnicking in the Fort Island Gulf Beach, swimming with manatees, hiking through the Wildlife refuge, exploring Archaeological State Park, and kayaking on Kings Bay… The possibilities are endless. This place is a natureal gem, and if the road takes you near Miami, you mustn’t miss it.

Family kayaking in Crystal River — Crystal River is famous for its water sport activities

Traveling is half the fun!

In today’s modern age of technology, making routes, maps and finding things we’re looking for is easy. Still, being surrounded by all that pressure of modernization can be a burden sometimes. Many would argue that old-fashioned vacations are the best because that’s how you learn to get around. Engaging kids in finding the routes on paper maps could make the trip a more fun experience. But also, such interactive activities will be teaching your kids resourcefulness through gaining new skills.

Florida road trips for families with kids should, first of all, be fun. Therefore, while traveling, don’t hold onto schedule and itineraries too much! It’s essential to enjoy the coincidental magical instances on your way. Whether they are cute little diners along the way or the best sunset scenery, stop and learn to seize the moment. Such little detours could make the vacation memorable by creating valuable family moments. As R.W. Emerson wisely said, “It’s not the destination, it’s the journey.”

5 Things to do in Orlando

January 14, 2020August 17, 2021markstraveljournal13 Comments

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In a place with unlimited activities and attractions, there is obviously more than 5 things to do in Orlando. This Florida city often crops up on people’s bucket lists. Orlando is filled with theme parks, fun and adventure. It’s the perfect destination for anyone looking for a fun, stress free trip with lots of laughs. Whether you are looking for an action-packed week away with the kids, or the chance to explore on your own, Orlando has plenty to offer.

With so much going on it’s essential that you choose the right base. Somewhere like Marriott’s Grande Vista is the perfect place to relax at the end of long days, getting a good night’s sleep and preparing for your next great adventure. But, wherever you stay it’s a good idea to do a bit of research first. With so much to do it’s easy to miss things that you would love. So, here’s a look at 5 of the things that you should put on your to-do list for your trip to Orlando.

Disney’s Magic Kingdom

The Magic Kingdom was Walt Disney’s first theme park and remains one of the most popular theme parks in the world to this day. No matter how old you are, a little bit of Disney magic can be a great way to relive your childhood. You can’t help but smile as you look up at Cinderella’s castle or watch the evening fireworks. This theme park includes rides, roller-coaster, simulators and various Disney themed areas. A must for any Disney fan.

Universal Studios

If your movie love is a little wider than just Disney, Universal Studios is the place to be. Home to rides and attractions based around all of our movie favourites this is a fantastically fun day out. If you prefer a bigger adrenaline rush or are traveling with older children, you might want to buy a “park to park” pass so that you can also head over to the Islands of Adventure park.

SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld is always a big hit with kids and adults alike. Home to various different species of sea life and fish, SeaWorld lets you get up close and personal with your favourite creatures, while learning more about their environments and lifecycles. There are also talks, displays, shows and aquatic themed rides.

The Kennedy Space Centre

If theme parks aren’t your thing, and you’ve got no desire to spend your days on roller-coasters and rides, Orlando still has plenty to offer. Just a 45-minute drive away from Downtown Orlando on the Eastern coast of Florida is the Kennedy Space Centre. At the Kennedy Centre you can see actual rockets that have left the earth’s orbit, you can learn more about space and space crafts and you can walk on the same ground as many of NASA’s greatest astronauts.

Aquatica Park

Yes, Orlando has lots of theme parks and plenty of museums and historic sites, but it’s also known for its water parks. Aquatica park is perhaps the biggest and best of them all. Home to head to head slides, flumes, rapids and the famous Dolphin Plunge it’s a fantastic family day out.

Summary

You can’t go wrong with Orlando. It’s certainly a great kids destination and worth a road trip to Florida. But there’s so much more. 5 things to do in Orlando is just the start of a great and memorable trip.