Link to my page under videos check out my travel series that starts with one Florida trip 5 epic stops. I have posted the introduction one, stop one and stop 2 stop 3 drops soon
When people think of Florida, they usually think of beaches, palm trees, and sunshine.
But tucked away in Sarasota is a place that feels like it belongs somewhere in Europe — a massive estate filled with art, circus history, stunning gardens, and one of the most beautiful mansions you’ll ever see.
John Ringling and his wife Mable Ringling built this estate in the 1920s as their winter home. But it wasn’t just a house — it was meant to be a cultural destination filled with art, architecture, and beauty.
Today, the property covers 66 acres along Sarasota Bay and includes multiple museums, gardens, and historic buildings.
And the moment you step onto the grounds, you realize this place is far bigger and more impressive than you expected.
The Art Museum – A Surprise Even for Non-Art Lovers
The centerpiece of the estate is the Ringling Museum of Art, a stunning European-style museum that houses an impressive collection of Renaissance and Baroque artwork.
The building itself feels like a palace.
Long marble hallways, towering ceilings, and an open courtyard filled with statues make it feel more like something you’d find in Italy than on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Even if you’re not a huge art person, the atmosphere alone is worth the visit.
Walking through the galleries, you quickly realize John Ringling didn’t just collect a few paintings — he built one of the most significant art collections in the country.
Ca’ d’Zan – The Venetian Mansion on the Water
If there’s one building on the property that will completely blow you away, it’s Ca’ d’Zan.
This massive Venetian Gothic mansion sits right on the edge of Sarasota Bay and was the Ringlings’ personal home.
The name literally means “House of John” in the Venetian dialect.
Walking up to it feels like stepping into a European palace.
Inside you’ll find:
Grand staircases Elaborate ceilings Antique furniture Huge windows overlooking the bay
But honestly, the back terrace view might be the best part.
Standing there looking out over the water, it’s easy to see why John and Mable Ringling chose this exact spot to build their dream home.
The Circus Museum – Where the Fun Begins
Of course, you can’t visit The Ringling without diving into its circus history.
Inside you’ll find vintage circus wagons, costumes, posters, and fascinating exhibits about the golden age of the American circus.
But the highlight is the Howard Bros. Circus Model, an incredibly detailed miniature circus that recreates what a traveling circus looked like in the early 1900s.
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We’re talking thousands of tiny figures, wagons, tents, animals, and performers — all laid out exactly how the circus would arrive and set up in a town.
It’s the kind of exhibit where you can stand there for 20 minutes and still keep discovering new details.
The Gardens – Florida Meets Italy
Another thing that completely surprised me about this place was the gardens.
The Bayfront Gardens at The Ringling stretch across the property and are filled with statues, banyan trees, fountains, and quiet walking paths.
Some areas feel tropical, while others look like something straight out of Italy.
There are even spots where you can sit along the water and just watch boats move across Sarasota Bay.
It’s peaceful, scenic, and honestly one of the most relaxing places to wander around.
Why This Might Be Florida’s Most Underrated Attraction
What makes the Ringling so surprising is that most people visiting Florida don’t even know it exists.
Tourists head to the beaches, theme parks, or big cities — but they completely miss this incredible estate sitting right in Sarasota.
Yet in one place you can experience:
World-class art Historic architecture Circus history Massive gardens Waterfront views
That’s a lot of variety for one destination.
And because the grounds are so big, it never feels overly crowded.
“Most people think Walt Disney World Resort has a ton of strict rules… but the truth is, Disney actually allows a lot of things in the parks that most guests don’t realize.”
“You don’t have to buy the Disney autograph books.”
“Bring your own notebook, hat, or even a photo mat for characters to sign.”
7. Strollers and Wagons (With Limits)
“Strollers are allowed — they just have to fit Disney’s size limits.”
“Pro tip: having a stroller isn’t just for kids… it’s great for carrying stuff.”
8. Ponchos and Rain Gear
“Florida rain happens fast, so bringing your own ponchos or rain jackets is totally fine.”
“And way cheaper than buying one in the park.”
9. Personal Fans and Cooling Towels
“You can bring cooling towels, misting fans, and small portable fans.”
“In the summer, these are lifesavers.”
10. Your Own Coffee
“And here’s one people really don’t realize — you can bring your own coffee or drinks into the park.”
“So if you need that morning caffeine before rope drop… you’re covered.”
Outro
“So next time you visit Walt Disney World Resort, remember — packing smart can save you money, keep you comfortable, and make your Disney day a whole lot better.”
If you’ve been following Take The Trip by Brian, you know I’m always out exploring interesting places, hidden gems, and local favorites worth sharing. But if you didn’t know, I also do food reviews from a different perspective.
As a former chef, I love breaking down food, flavors, and overall experiences on my food review YouTube channel Brian’s Big Bite. It’s where I visit local spots and give my honest take on the food, the atmosphere, and whether it’s really worth the stop.
And that brings me to Pick Em Up Joe’s.
First Impressions
Pick Em Up Joe’s isn’t a big flashy place — it’s a local coffee shop and bakery, and honestly that’s part of what makes it special. The moment you walk in, you get that warm bakery aroma in the air that instantly tells you something good is coming out of the kitchen.
It has that cozy, welcoming vibe that you expect from a neighborhood coffee shop — a place where people stop in to grab coffee, chat for a bit, and of course pick up something sweet.
The Star of the Show – The Cinnamon Rolls
Now let’s talk about the reason people keep coming back: the cinnamon rolls.
Pick Em Up Joe’s has built a reputation for having some of the best cinnamon rolls in the Midwest, and after trying one, it’s easy to see why.
These aren’t your average cinnamon rolls. They’re big, soft, perfectly baked, and loaded with cinnamon flavor, topped with that rich, creamy icing that melts right into the warm dough.
From a former chef’s perspective, what makes them stand out is the balance. The dough is soft and fluffy, the cinnamon filling is generous without being overwhelming, and the icing brings everything together with just the right sweetness.
Every bite is exactly what you want a cinnamon roll to be.
Coffee and Bakery Vibes
Of course, a great cinnamon roll deserves a great cup of coffee. Pick Em Up Joe’s has that classic coffee shop atmosphere, making it the perfect place to sit down, relax, and enjoy a slow morning.
Whether you’re grabbing something quick or hanging out for a bit, it’s one of those places that just feels comfortable.
And honestly, spots like this are what I love featuring both on Take The Trip by Brian and on Brian’s Big Bite — local businesses doing something really well.
Final Thoughts
If you’re anywhere near Pick Em Up Joe’s and you love cinnamon rolls, this is absolutely a place you need to try.
Great coffee, incredible baked goods, and a welcoming small-town vibe make this a stop that’s definitely worth it.
And if you want to see my full reaction and food breakdown, make sure to check out the video over on Brian’s Big Bite, where I give my honest review from a former chef’s perspective.
Brian’s Tip
If you’re heading to Pick Em Up Joe’s, get there early. When a place is known for having some of the best cinnamon rolls around, they tend to sell out fast.
If you’ve ever signed up for a credit card and wondered, “What’s the deal with all these points, miles, and cash back offers?” — you’re not alone. Credit card points can seem confusing at first, but once you understand how they work, they can unlock free flights, hotel stays, and even everyday savings. The good news? You don’t have to be a finance expert to start using your points like a pro.
Here’s my easy guide to getting started.
1. Know Your Reward Type
Not all points are created equal. Most credit cards fall into one of these categories:
Cash Back Cards – Straightforward. You earn a percentage back on your purchases, which can be redeemed as statement credit or cash. Travel Points & Airline Miles – These are usually tied to airlines or travel programs and can score you flights, upgrades, or hotel nights. Flexible Points Programs – Think Chase Ultimate Rewards or Amex Membership Rewards. These are versatile and can transfer to airlines, hotels, or be used for gift cards.
Tip: Beginners usually find cash back easiest, but if travel is your goal, flexible points give the most bang for your buck.
2. Focus on One or Two Cards
It’s tempting to open every shiny new card with a welcome bonus, but juggling too many can get overwhelming. Pick one or two cards that match your spending style. For example:
If you dine out a lot → get a card with high dining rewards. If you travel often → look at cards with travel perks like free checked bags or airport lounge access.
3. Maximize the Sign-Up Bonus
The fastest way to rack up points is through a sign-up bonus. Many cards will give you 50,000–100,000 points if you spend a certain amount in the first few months. That’s often worth hundreds of dollars in travel or cash back.
Pro tip: Time your application around a big purchase (like car repairs or holiday shopping) so you hit the spending requirement without overspending.
4. Redeem Smart, Not Lazy
Here’s where beginners leave money on the table. Not all redemptions are equal. For example:
Bad redemption: Using points for gift cards or random merchandise (usually low value). Better redemption: Cash back or statement credit. Best redemption: Transferring to travel partners for flights and hotels.
A flight that costs $600 might only cost you 40,000 points if you transfer to the right airline. That’s a way better deal than trading those points for a $200 gift card.
Don’t forget to use them! They can save you money even before points come into play.
6. Pay Your Balance in Full
This is the golden rule. Credit cards only work in your favor if you never carry a balance. Interest charges will wipe out the value of your points faster than you can earn them.
Final Thoughts – Take the Trip
Earning points is fun, but redeeming them is where the magic happens. Whether it’s shaving $100 off your grocery bill or flying to a dream destination for nearly free, points can make everyday spending more rewarding.
Start simple: pick the right card, chase that sign-up bonus, and redeem wisely. Before long, you’ll be traveling or saving money like a pro.
After all, life’s too short not to take the trip—especially when points can help pay for it.
Booking an all-inclusive vacation is supposed to be easy. One price, no stress, unlimited food and drinks, and your biggest decision is pool or beach. But right after you lock in that trip, the question pops up:
“Would you like to upgrade to VIP?”
Suddenly, your relaxing getaway turns into a decision that feels bigger than it should. More perks, more comfort… and more money. So the real question becomes: is the VIP upgrade actually worth it?
I’ve traveled both ways — standard all-inclusive and upgraded VIP — and here’s the honest breakdown to help you decide what makes the most sense for your trip.
What the Regular All-Inclusive Pass Covers
Let’s start with the basics — because a standard all-inclusive already offers a lot:
All meals included (buffets and select restaurants) Unlimited beer, wine, and standard cocktails Resort activities and daily entertainment Access to pools, beach areas, fitness center Shows, live music, and themed nights
For many travelers, this is more than enough. You eat well, drink freely, and enjoy the resort without constantly opening your wallet. If you’re active, social, and love being on the move, the regular all-inclusive can be a perfect fit.
What the VIP Upgrade Usually Adds
VIP upgrades vary by resort, but most include a combination of:
Priority or private check-in Premium or top-shelf liquor Guaranteed reservations at specialty restaurants Room upgrades (better views, more space, nicer locations) Access to exclusive lounges or private pool areas Concierge or butler service Extra perks like spa credits or late checkout
On paper, it sounds fantastic — and sometimes, it really is.
So… Is the VIP Upgrade Worth It?
The honest answer: it depends on how you plan to travel.
Here’s how I break it down.
VIP Is Worth It If…
You plan to spend most of your time at the resort Relaxation is the main goal — not sightseeing You value quieter spaces and less waiting You enjoy premium drinks and higher-end dining You’re celebrating something special (honeymoon, anniversary, milestone trip)
If your idea of a perfect vacation is lounging, being pampered, and letting the resort do all the work, VIP can absolutely elevate the experience.
You Can Skip VIP If…
You’ll be off the property most days exploring Excursions and local adventures are the priority You’re fine with standard drinks and dining You don’t care about exclusive areas or priority access You’d rather spend the extra money on experiences outside the resort
If you’re rarely in your room and constantly on the go, many VIP perks may go unused — and that’s where the value drops off.
Thinking About the Cost
VIP upgrades often run 15–50% more than the standard all-inclusive. The key question isn’t whether VIP is “better,” but whether you’ll actually use enough of the perks to justify that increase.
More drinks, upgraded rooms, private spaces — they’re only worth it if they match how you travel.
Final Takeaway
The regular all-inclusive delivers exactly what most travelers want: easy, relaxing, and fun. VIP isn’t necessary — it’s optional luxury. When it matches your travel style, it can feel incredible. When it doesn’t, it’s just extra cost.
There’s no wrong choice — just the right choice for your trip.
Update – Brian’s Tip
After experiencing both, here’s the honest takeaway: the VIP upgrade is only worth it if you plan to truly live at the resort. If your trip is packed with excursions, exploring, and time off-property, the regular all-inclusive delivers everything you need. But if relaxation, premium perks, and staying put are the goal — that’s when VIP makes sense.
Some places make you stop talking, slow down, and just watch. Three Sisters Springs in Crystal River, Florida is one of those places.
Visiting in the winter means you’re arriving at exactly the right time. As ocean temperatures drop, manatees migrate inland, leaving the colder Gulf waters and gathering in the warm freshwater springs that dot this part of Florida. Their final destination? A small, magical place known as Three Sisters Springs.
Why It’s Called Three Sisters
Three Sisters Springs gets its name because the spring system is divided into three distinct sections. Each is beautiful in its own way, but the largest of the three is where the magic really happens.
That spring holds a constant temperature of 72 degrees year-round, and during the coldest months of winter — yes, Florida does get “cold” — hundreds of manatees gather together here. They literally cuddle up, using both the warm spring water and each other to stay warm. It’s part survival, part social hour, and completely incredible to witness.
Watching them glide through the crystal-clear water is a pure treat. For animals that can weigh over a thousand pounds, manatees are shockingly graceful and peaceful. No rush. No chaos. Just slow, calm movement — like underwater ballet with whiskers.
A Tough Time for Gentle Giants
While the experience is awe-inspiring, there’s also a sobering side. To eat, manatees must travel far from the springs. The last two hurricanes severely damaged sea grass beds, which are their primary food source. That means longer journeys and fewer feeding areas, making these warm-water refuges even more critical to their survival.
Seeing them gathered together really drives home how important places like Three Sisters Springs are — not just as tourist attractions, but as lifelines.
About Crystal River & The Park
Three Sisters Springs is located in Crystal River, a laid-back Gulf Coast town often called The Manatee Capital of the World. The springs are part of the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge, and access is well organized to protect both visitors and the animals.
Admission: Prices vary slightly by season, but generally expect around $12–$15 per adult to enter the Three Sisters Springs area via the refuge. Parking & Access: You can access the springs by shuttle, boardwalk walk-in, kayak, or guided tour depending on the time of year and manatee activity.
When to Go
Manatee season: November through March Peak months: January and February Departure: As Gulf waters warm in spring, manatees head back toward the ocean
Winter is hands-down the best time to visit if you want to see large numbers gathered together.
Kayaking & Snorkeling With Manatees
Yes — you can get closer (responsibly).
Kayaking: Paddling into the springs is one of the most peaceful ways to experience them. You often find manatees swimming right beneath your kayak. Snorkeling: Crystal River is one of the only places in the U.S. where snorkeling with manatees is allowed, under strict guidelines. You cannot touch or chase them, but floating quietly while they move around you is unforgettable.
The key word here is respect. These are protected animals, and the rules exist to keep them safe and stress-free.
A Moment You Don’t Forget
Standing on the boardwalk, watching dozens — sometimes hundreds — of manatees stacked together like floating marshmallows, you realize how rare this experience is. There’s no soundtrack, no narration, no rush. Just bubbles, sunlight, and gentle giants sharing warmth.
It’s humbling. It’s peaceful. And it’s one of those travel moments that sticks with you long after you leave.
Brian’s Tip
Go early in the morning during peak winter months. The water is clearest, the manatees are most active, and the crowds are thinner. Bring patience, move slowly, and just let the moment happen — the manatees will do the rest.
trust me — this one is definitely a trip worth taking.
If you’re anything like me, packing for a trip isn’t the hardest part—deciding what to do with your baby is. And yes, I mean your pet.
(This is Our Baby Drake)
The one who greets you at the door, steals your seat on the couch, and somehow knows when you’re about to leave town.
Over the years, I’ve learned there’s no single “right” answer when it comes to pet care while traveling. The best choice depends on your pet, your trip, and your peace of mind. Here are the main options—and how to know which one is right for you.
Option 1: A Trusted Friend or Family Member
For many pet parents, this is the gold standard.
Having someone your pet already knows step in can be a huge comfort—especially for animals who don’t handle change well. Your pet stays in a familiar environment, keeps their routine, and avoids the stress of new sights, smells, and sounds.
Best for:
Pets with anxiety or medical needs Short to medium-length trips Owners who have a reliable, pet-loving friend or family member
Things to consider:
Leave clear instructions (feeding, meds, vet info) Do a trial run if possible Don’t assume—ask and make sure they’re truly comfortable
Sometimes the best care comes from someone who already loves your pet almost as much as you do.
Option 2: In-Home Pet Sitting
This is one of my favorite options for longer trips.
A professional pet sitter comes to your home, keeping your pet in their normal surroundings while still providing expert care. Some sitters even stay overnight, which adds extra peace of mind.
Best for:
Pets who thrive at home Owners traveling longer than a few days Multi-pet households
Things to consider:
Choose insured, bonded sitters with reviews Meet them beforehand Ask about emergency procedures
Yes, it can cost more—but the comfort and consistency for your pet can be worth every penny.
Option 3: Boarding Kennels or Pet Hotels
Modern pet boarding has come a long way. Many facilities now offer playtime, webcams, spa treatments, and private suites.
For social pets who love interaction, this can actually feel like a vacation of their own.
Best for:
Highly social dogs Short trips Pets already familiar with daycare settings
Things to consider:
Tour the facility in advance Ask about staff-to-pet ratios Check vaccination requirements and cleanliness
Not all boarding facilities are equal—do your homework before booking.
Option 4: Bringing Your Pet Along
Sometimes, the best care is… you.
Pet-friendly hotels, road trips, and destinations are becoming more common, and for certain trips, bringing your pet makes perfect sense.
Best for:
Short road trips Calm, adaptable pets Destinations that truly welcome pets
Things to consider:
Travel stress Pet policies and fees Emergency vet access at your destination
If your pet enjoys travel and fits the trip, this can be a beautiful way to make memories together.
The Real “Best Choice”
The best option isn’t about convenience—it’s about comfort, safety, and trust.
Ask yourself:
Will my pet feel secure? Will their needs be met consistently? Will I be able to relax knowing they’re okay?
When you can answer “yes” to all three, you’ve made the right decision.
Brian’s Tip
Before any trip, leave a note with your pet’s name, vet info, feeding schedule, and one quirky habit only you would know. If something unexpected happens, that little detail can make a big difference.
From road trips to cruises and everything in between, traveling is always better when you know your baby back home is happy, safe, and loved. Taking the time to choose the right care means you can fully enjoy the journey—worry free.
Until the next adventure, this is Take The Trip by Brian—because every great trip starts with peace of mind.
Disney World has a way of making people believe they need to spend everything to have a magical vacation. I get it—I’ve seen it from both sides.
Before I was writing about travel, I was a Cast Member at Walt Disney World, working as a chef for the Mouse. I’ve watched families do Disney on every budget imaginable, and trust me when I say this: the most memorable trips aren’t always the most expensive ones.
Here’s how to plan a Disney vacation that feels magical—without wrecking your finances.
Timing Is Everything (And It Affects Your Wallet)
When I worked behind the scenes, one thing was always clear: crowd levels and pricing go hand in hand.
The best budget-friendly times to visit are:
Late January through early February Late August through September Early November (before Thanksgiving)
During these windows, hotel prices dip, crowds thin out, and you’re less likely to spend extra just to escape long lines.
You Don’t Have to Stay Deluxe to Feel the Magic
Yes, deluxe resorts are beautiful—but they aren’t required.
Disney Value Resorts still offer:
Early park entry Free Disney transportation Full Disney theming
Off-site hotels can save even more, often with free breakfast and larger rooms. Just compare total costs once you factor in parking and transportation.
From my Cast Member days, I can tell you: plenty of Disney pros stay value or off-site—and still have an incredible time.
Tickets: More Isn’t Always Better
Disney tickets get cheaper per day the longer you stay—but that doesn’t mean you need a 10-day ticket.
A 4–5 day park ticket usually hits the sweet spot. Skip the Park Hopper unless you know you’ll actually bounce between parks. Most families don’t—and that extra cost adds up quickly.
Food Tips From a Former Disney Chef
This is where my chef hat comes in.
Disney food is part of the experience, but you don’t need to eat every meal at a table-service restaurant.
Budget-friendly food tips:
Bring snacks into the parks (yes, it’s allowed) Share meals—portions are often generous Pick one must-do dining experience and skip the rest Quick-service locations offer some of the best food on property
You can eat well at Disney without booking every character meal on the map.
Be Selective With Add-Ons
Lightning Lane, special events, tours—it’s easy to say yes to everything.
Instead, decide ahead of time:
Which experiences truly matter to you Which ones you can skip without regret
Spending intentionally is the key to keeping Disney affordable.
Rest Days Save Money (And Sanity)
One of the biggest mistakes I saw families make was trying to do too much.
Build in rest days to:
Avoid burnout Cut down on impulse spending Actually enjoy your resort
Sometimes the most magical moments happen outside the parks.
Set a Budget Before You Book
Before you click “confirm,” decide:
Your total trip budget Where you’ll splurge Where you’ll save
Having a plan keeps Disney from turning into a financial hangover when you get home.
Brian’s Tip 🏰🍴
As a former Cast Member and Disney chef, I’ll tell you this: Disney magic isn’t about how much you spend—it’s about how well you plan. A smart itinerary beats an expensive one every time.
You don’t need to mortgage the house to do Disney right. With insider knowledge, realistic expectations, and a little strategy, you can create a trip that’s magical, memorable, and financially sane.
Until the next adventure, this is Take The Trip by Brian—because the best trips are the ones you enjoy long after you get home.
How to Save Money by Not Paying to Select a Seat on an Airplane
At some point while booking a flight, it happens.
You’re cruising through the checkout process, feeling good about the price, and then—bam—there it is:
“Select your seats for an additional fee.”
Suddenly you’re faced with a very real question: Do we really have to sit together? And more importantly… is it worth paying extra just to be side by side for a few hours?
The answer might surprise you.
What Happens If You Don’t Pay for Seat Selection?
On most airlines, if you skip seat selection, the system assigns seats automatically at check-in or at the gate.
That means:
You’ll still get a seat You might be separated You’ll save anywhere from $20 to $75 per person each way
For couples, friends, or even families with older kids, that can mean real savings—money better spent on your destination instead of seat numbers.
When It’s Usually Safe to Skip Seat Selection
In many cases, not paying works out just fine.
You’ll often still be seated together if:
The flight isn’t full You check in early You’re traveling midweek or off-peak You’re flexible with middle seats
Airlines tend to seat parties together when possible—especially on less crowded flights.
When You Should Pay to Sit Together
Skipping seat selection isn’t for every situation.
You should strongly consider paying if:
You’re traveling with young children Someone in your group has a medical or mobility need You need aisle or window seats for comfort The flight is nearly sold out
Peace of mind sometimes is worth the extra cost.
The “Divide and Conquer” Strategy
Here’s a trick seasoned travelers use:
Let one person select a seat and leave the other unassigned.
At check-in or the gate, ask politely if there are seats together. Flight attendants often help when they can, and sometimes you’ll end up together without paying for both seats.
No guarantees—but it works more often than you’d think.
Middle Seat Magic (Yes, It’s a Thing)
Believe it or not, leaving the middle seat unselected can work in your favor.
Sometimes:
The middle seat stays empty The gate agent moves you together Another passenger volunteers to switch
It’s not glamorous—but it can be effective.
What About Budget Airlines?
Ultra-low-cost carriers are stricter.
On airlines like Spirit or Frontier:
Seat selection is a major revenue stream You’re more likely to be separated Gate changes are less flexible
In these cases, decide early whether sitting together matters—because last-minute changes can cost more.
Ask Yourself This Before Paying
Before clicking “add seats,” ask:
Is this a short flight? Will we sleep, watch movies, or scroll anyway? Would we rather spend this money on food, excursions, or souvenirs?
A few hours apart on a plane can mean extra memories on the ground.
Brian’s Tip
If sitting together isn’t critical, skip seat selection and check in the moment it opens. Early check-in increases your chances of being seated together—and keeps more cash in your travel budget.
You don’t have to sit together to travel together. Sometimes the smartest move is saying no to the upsell and yes to saving money for the trip itself.
Until the next adventure, this is Take The Trip by Brian—because great trips aren’t measured by seat numbers.
Take the Trip by Brian 