Discovering more of Orlando

I've been in Orlando FLorida twice in my life... this would be my third visit to the Sunshine State of America... I wouldn't exactly say that I'm feeling lost...but this time; it's just different.
I am finally looking at this Country not as a tourist and it is quite an overwhelming feeling not to recognize a place you think you know.
Disney World is 2 blocks away from where I am; but I do not feel any "Disney" at all. The vibe of Disney and Themeparks isn't evident; even when looking at it towering high amongst the hills from our cute little rented convertible.
Despite the lack of Disney-EVERYTHING~..this place is awesome; the people are friendly, very outspoken and a lot different from what I'm used too. I don't think I've met any Asian person here which isn't a tourist! Haha.. the tourists kinda keep to themselves in their little "Holiday-feel" bubble. It's not hard to spot them with their camera and colourful clothing all along the main streets of Orlando. It's really cute!
I wish I were one of them; but this time; I'm here for something more important; I'm for an education!
It takes time to adapt..
and Florida gave me a nice cold 8 degree welcome. *laughs* It's very rare for Orlando weather, notorious for being hot and humid! It's getting warmer everyday though.
I've been asked many times by friends and family; So how is it?! I reply; "It's like on TV!"
*giggle* it really is; like the sitcoms we watch on American TV, the houses; the accents, the items, the shops, the street names..
I still chuckle waking up to the "Wall Street Journal" at my door. Like..WOW!...
Ben and Jerry's.. Denny's.. Macy.. Kmart.. TGIFridays...WOw!..*laughs*
We have many American brands now branching out in Malaysia; and less in Australia.. but it hardly compares to the REAL thing!
I've been having so much good food it isn't funny! The portions are mindblowing! but so delicious! I've been very lucky to have 2 very experienced foodie chaperons with me at my first weekend here in the US.



There are so many types of cuisine I've yet to discover! Cuban, Creole, Spanish, African, Hawaiian! It's so exciting! It really is different to the common; Japanese, Korean, Thai and Indian food we get very often in the East and Australia. Flavours are strong and spices are aplenty~ here in the US. I even had a taste of authentic Jerk Chicken! It was totally awesome! I can imagine how incredible my 6 months of experiences of new cultures will be for me here!
It's in the middle of early morning right now;...and i see the sun beginning to take a peek out from the fluffy white clouds. I'm still currently in Jet Lag mode..*sigh*
I'll be alright in a couple of weeks I guess.. I don't think i'll have issues trying to fit in or trying to settle down into school and things. I still think about how much support and encouraging advice from blog readers about my coming here. THANK you so much... you guys are the COOLest people ever! I really do appreciate it. I know now I am not alone..and it really gives me the confidence to strive for what I have passion for. I love knowing how you're out there cheering me on. You have no idea how much that means to me! I feel like giving everyone a hug *laughs*
It's going to take me a couple of days to fully settle in and feel at home..but I know I'll definitely be able to jump straight into classes which begin on Monday! I've met the school staff and taken a short tour; I'm so incredibly excited! I also shook the hand of Ewald Notter; the founder of the school and master of sugar artistry.... I am such a fan of his work. I was so star struck it was embarrassing! *giggle* My face lights up at the utter of his name! I can't believe he will be teaching my classes! Everyone from the Notter School was enthusiastic and warm... I know I'll just love it here!
It definitely is kicking off for me like a Dream come true~