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, they’re experts on all things Florida, from beaches and shopping to entertainment and dining.   With their blogs, articles, photos, and radio and television appearances, VISIT FLORIDA’s Insiders answer visitors’ questions while sharing 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 2013-2014:

Jodi Mailander Farrell / Viva Florida

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.

Tamara Smith / Shopping

I’m a Miami native, and a Tallahassee resident for the past 10 years.  I’ve been a teacher, event coordinator, personal shopper and television show host.  With a master’s degree in global merchandising and product development, I’ll help you explore Florida’s malls, outlets, boutiques – and the sunshine.

Carrie McLaren / Family 

As a native of northeast Florida and mom of two toddlers, I document my life at CarrieWithChildren.com.  When I’m not planning play dates, I can be found cheering on my hometown NFL 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.

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.

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.

Rachelle Lucas / Food & Dining

A foodie with a zest for life, I’ve taken my fascination with fine foods from The Travel Channel to my ongoing recipe collection at TheTravelBite.com.  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.

John Schwarb / Golf 

My first stint as a Floridian took me from Leesburg to St. Petersburg to Inverness, working at newspapers – and discovering golf courses at every turn.  Back in the Sunshine State again, TPC Sawgrass is my home course, one of so many great places we’re blessed to have as Florida golfers.  Let’s explore the others together.

Terry Gibson / Boating & Fishing

I was raised in South Florida’s woods and on its waters, both of which I report on frequently for a variety of magazines, including the publication I co-founded, Fly & Light Tackle Angler.  I’ve spent my life fishing, surfing, diving and hunting throughout the world, but I’m a firm believer that there’s no place like home.

Terry Tomalin / Boating & Fishing

For 20 years, I’ve been the outdoors editor for the state’s largest daily newspaper, and I’ve fished and boated my way from Pensacola to Key West.  As an avid inshore and offshore angler, scuba diver, power boater and sailor, I’ve traveled the world and still believe Florida is the best place on earth.

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