When you think Orlando, you probably think of the theme parks. Nicknamed "The Theme Park Capital of the World", Orlando attracts more visitors than any other place in Florida. My image of Orlando includes crowds, traffic, noise and madness to go along with the fun, magic and lots of stuff to do in the area.
My recent visit to Grande Lakes Orlando showed me a different side I had never experienced in Central Florida. "Miles from the madness; minutes from the magic." But that's not all. Rest and relaxation, natural beauty, gourmet dining, and luxury accommodations are just some of the things I was treated to when our group of 15 top Macaroni Kid publishers visited the property mid-July. 
Set amidst 500 acres of lushly landscaped grounds, Grande Lakes Orlando is a unique destination with a level of service and facilities appealing to the sophisticated traveler. With a luxury 582-room Ritz-Carlton and deluxe 1,000-room JW Marriott, an 18-hole Greg Norman designed championship golf course featuring the Golf Digest school instruction, a wealth of dining options to accommodate any appetite or dietary restriction, as well as a 40,000-square-foot spa and extensive meeting facilities, Grande Lakes truly redefines the Orlando experience. Guests at both hotels have access to all the facilities at the resort. 
There is plenty for families right on the property. Float in the lazy river or swim in one of the pools for a relaxing escape that will leave you feeling as though you're on a tropical island. Sign the kids up for an activity through the Ritz Kids program while you enjoy a treatment at the award winning spa, read a book while laying in one of the hammocks or savor a kid-free romantic dinner. Spend time together playing a game of sand volleyball, a fishing excursion, casting instruction, or for the adventure or nature lover in you, a canoe or kayak eco-tour or guided bird-watching, right on property! For a truly unique experience, how about tent camping in your hotel room?
We were treated like royalty by the fantastic staff and I am grateful to them for the hospitality and the wonderful experience. The things I particularly enjoyed during our visit was the cooking school at the Ritz, my relaxing massage, a little quiet time all to myself without the family, and a lot of bonding time with my MK friends. But the highlight for me was the guided kayak tour of Shingle Creek, the Headwaters to the Florida Everglades. I can't wait to come back for a future family vacation.
Grande Lakes is located 15 minutes from the Orlando International Airport and minutes from all the major theme parks. To learn more, visit their website at www.grandelakes.com.
The writer was a recent guest of Grade Lakes Orlando for three nights during which accommodations, meals and activities were complimentary.
