• Erica Cromwell
  • Erica Cromwell

Florida Exodus

A 37-day adventure by Erica Read more
  • Trip start
    April 1, 2026

    Everglades National Park: Shark Valley

    May 1 in the United States ⋅ ☀️ 68 °F

    We took our bikes on the 15 mile loop around Shark Valley in Everglades National Park. Ironically no sharks are anywhere near this area but there are plenty of alligators, soft shell turtles, some crocodiles and so many deer flies. We leisurely enjoyed the first 7 miles until the lookout tower then picked up speed to try and out pace the flies. They were vicious but overall it was a very nice day. Then we had lunch at an amazing Jamaican-Haitian restaurant recommended by our guide from Biscayne National Park. Everything was delicious and we agreed that we wished we lived closer to try more things from the menu. A little bit of relaxing was followed by trying an unassuming distillery that was a great find. Truly artisanal craft spirits, a talented bartender, and a uniquely but beautifully decorated cozy space was the perfect last evening in the Homestead area.Read more

  • Magic Kingdom

    May 3 in the United States ⋅ ☁️ 64 °F

    We had an amazing day, but going to the Magic Kingdom during a cheerleading competition on Disney property is something we’ll try to avoid in the future. It also was the reopening day of Thunder Mountain Railroad which is my favorite. We luckily enjoyed it around lunchtime which was a good thing. We spent a few hours with the dogs mid day then came back to the park after 5pm. When we arrived Thunder Mountain was evacuated and closed due to an employee having to deploy a fire extinguisher on the tracks. The night parade was nice and the fireworks were phenomenal.Read more

  • Epcot

    May 4 in the United States ⋅ ☀️ 73 °F

    We worked our way eating and drinking around the world and strolling through the topiaries of the Flower & Garden show. We rode new rides, we enjoyed new food, and loved old favorites.

    Trip end
    May 7, 2026