What I won't miss about living in Orlando

As I approach the 2.5 week mark before we close on the house and depart the sunshine state I know that there are some things(mostly people) that I'll miss when I leave. But honestly I can't help but think of what I won't miss from life in Orlando.

1. Florida's lack of seasons

Yes, I am aware that every non-Floridian loves our lack of snow. I'm not going to lie, it can be quite nice at times. I survived a brutal Massachusetts winter in my 2007 move to Worcester, so I'm not naive that snow can and will get old. What Orlando does lack is a fall season. I love the crispness of the air in the fall and driving around to see the pretty foliage.

2.  Orlando's theme park culture

Growing up here you learn pretty quickly that this is a city that caters mainly to the millions of tourists who vacation here. When people hear Orlando they automatically think of Disney. So much of the entertainment options here are centered around Disney and Universal Studios. Don't get me wrong I like the theme parks just fine, but my idea of fun is not getting an annual pass to hit up the parks every weekend. I'm looking forward to having more diverse options in my entertainment.

3. Chain restaurants everywhere

When I travel to other parts of the country I'm always stuck by how many chains we have here in Orlando versus other cities. T and I do a good job of finding the local gems of cuisine here.

4. Lack of reliable public transportation

One of my favorite things to do when I lived in Worcester was to take the 45 minute commuter train into Boston to explore the city. In my year of living there I learned how to successfully navigate their subway system to take me all around the city. Orlando is spread out and god help you if you don't own a car here.

5. Mosquitoes and other assorted Florida insects

Mosquitoes love me. Seriously if I go out without insect repellent it won't be pretty. Summer nights are the worst. Don't even get me started on those nasty palmetto bugs that invade town in the summer.