Sunshine Matters

VISIT FLORIDA Insiders are visitors’ guides to Florida, taking them along for the ride as they explore all the Sunshine State has to offer.  As Floridians from all walks of life, the Insiders are experts on all things Florida, including beaches, shopping, entertainment and luxury, food and dining, smart travel, culture, family travel, outdoors and nature, golf and off the beaten path.  With their blogs, articles, photos, videos and radio and television appearances, VISIT FLORIDA’s Insiders answer visitors’ questions and share the latest happenings and the cultural richness that make Florida so compelling for residents and visitors alike.

I invite you to meet the Insiders for 2014-2015:

Lauren Tjaden / Beaches & Adventure

An author, ultimate adventure lover, beach bunny and sand snob, I’ve visited almost every beach in Florida and can’t wait to explore more.  Join me as I flip-flop across the Sunshine State, sharing the softest sand, sweetest shores and a boatload of adventure.

Jodi Mailander Farrell / Culture

You never really know a place until you know its people.  Even after 25 years as a journalist in Florida, I’m still in awe of the vast diversity of cultures here.  Florida’s richest resource is its varied inhabitants.  Crackers and conchs, Bahamians and Canadians, they’re all here, and I’m ready to show you their Florida.

Ginger Harris / Shopping

I’m a Miami fashion blogger, and have spent more than a decade as a fashion, beauty, entertainment and pop culture writer and editor for a variety of publications and organizations.  I’m also a devout yogi and a mom to a scene-stealing 6-year-old.

Carrie McLaren / Family 

I’m a native of northeast Florida and mom of two toddlers.  When I’m not planning play dates, I can be found cheering on my hometown Jacksonville Jaguars and exploring the state with my children.  Travel with us as we show you the Sunshine State’s best.

Kara Franker / Entertainment & Luxury

When I’m not in Miami managing my law practice, I’m traveling the state in search of that perfect escape.  As a former NFL cheerleader, I’ve got my finger on the pulse of the entertainment and luxury scenes.  I’ll help you discover your slice of Florida paradise.

Gary McKechnie / Off the Beaten Path 

I’m a native Floridian from Orlando, with a passion for exploration that takes me and my motorcycle on adventures in search of a different side of the Sunshine State.  Join me as we explore remote (and not-so-remote) destinations that always welcome visitors who take the road less traveled.

Kevin Mims / Outdoors & Nature

I’m a freelance writer and videographer, and spend most of my days exploring Florida’s natural wonders from a kayak, a bike or rambling down a hiking trail.  A Florida native living throughout the state via RV, I’m always sharing stories, photos and videos, so follow along and we’ll discover Florida’s natural treasures.

Rachelle Lucas / Food & Dining

I’m a foodie with a zest for life.  When I’m not traveling, I enjoy exploring local farmers’ markets and checking out new restaurants throughout the state.  Together, we’ll taste the best of Florida.

Dalia Colon / Smart Travel

I moved from Ohio to Tampa Bay in 2005 for a year – until I fell in love with my husband, guava pastries and 70-degree weather at Christmas.  I’ve been here since, working as a journalist and moonlighting as a bargain hunter.  My favorite four-letter word is “deal,” and I share the tips that’ll get you more Florida for less.

Carling Nolan / Golf

Starting at age 5, I told people I would grow up to become a professional golfer.  In 2009, I made that goal a reality and for the past five years, I’ve been competing on the LPGA, Symetra, and Ladies European Tours. Winning the Golf Channel’s Big Break gave me opportunities to play all over the world, but my favorite courses always bring me back to Florida.  I’m based in West Palm Beach, and enjoy the sunshine every day.

As always, you can reach all of the Insiders by email at Insiders@visitflorida.org.