WELCOME Villager
The Arrival Guide leads the way into The Villages® community and into Florida. The guide provides valuable information to arriving Villagers, on businesses, local events, attractions and Florida travel. The Arrival Guide also offers advertising opportunities for businesses intent on reaching new Villagers even ahead of their arrival. The Arrival Guide is available in high-tech digital copy, ArrivalGuide.com, Facebook and Instagram.
The way I envision it, the Arrival Guide blends together two distinct categories of businesses that Villagers rely on for a smooth transition so they can “Get Things Done” and “Go Have Fun”.
Scott A. Lepper, Publisher Village of St. Johns Homeowner Scott@ArrivalGuide.com
Scott A. Lepper
Customer Service 352-552-8218
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Get
Things Done!
n Find a home
n Secure a mortgage
n Make an Arrival Checklist pg.4
n Hire a mover
n Start checking things off
Go Have Fun!
n Walk the historic streets of St. Augustine pg. 17
n Find new favorite restaurant
n Ride Villages Trolley
n Experience the beaches of Destin pg. 25
n Experience Fort Lauderdale pg. 20
n Join first club: Villagers' Buying Club pg.16
n Find new chiropractor: Etheredge Chiropractic pg. 5
n Enclose your lanai: Custom Windows and Exterior Design pg. Cover, 6-7
n Buy a golf cart Bradley’s Golf Cars pg. 8-9
n Cable, dish or stream?
n Order blinds and shutters before move-in: Florida Blind Company pg. 10
n Complete custom home upgrades: Mastropiece pg. 11
n Top ranked Cancer Experts | The Most Advanced Treatments: Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute Cover, pg. 12
n Install outlets, lights, fans and TVs: Done Right Electric pg. 12
n Order lamppost sign
n Need an appellate attorney? Florida Appeals pg. 14-15
n Decide on grocery store
n Get your home security: H & W Alarm pg. 19
n Customize cabinets, closets and garages before move-in: Kitchen Wise I Closet Wise pg. 23
n Paint garage floor before move-in: Innovative Concrete Coatings pg. 24
n Find new dog groomer
n Find new vet
n Need a Florida estate attorney? 4
n Ride Lake Sumter electric boat tour
n Explore Orlando pg. 22
n Purchase an electric bike
n Take a selfie with a Florida gator
n Record first hole-in-one
n Weekend getaway to Florida beach
n Engage Florida sports
n Relax in your infrared sauna: Clearlight Saunas pg. 13
n Do a cruise
n Do a bus trip
n Swim with the manatees
Get Enclosed!
Elevate your lanai with a beautiful versatile glass enclosure. Our process is seamless beginning with a complimentary in-home estimate. Your customized glass products are installed by an experienced crew. We acquire permits and approvals. The Custom Windows and Exterior Design team is ready to assist you every step of the way. We have been creating amazing lanais for 37 years!
• Configurations to maximize airflow
• Single-pane or energy efficient double-pane low-e glass
• Sliding doors and horizontal sliding windows
• Picture and casement windows
• White or bronze aluminum frames
• White, bronze or almond vinyl frames
• Fixed or sliding screens
E40FX
The brand new EPIC E40FX is the best golf cart on the market today! Furnished with every imaginable feature, the forward-facing four-seater EPIC E40FX comes in six stylish colors and three height options. Premium 14” wheels and street-ready tires provide a solid foundation for every journey on every terrain, no matter what lift height is selected. With an abundance of storage, superior built-in marine-grade sound system and speakers, and stunning accent lighting, this EPIC golf cart illuminates the possibilities for fun and adventure.
KEY FEATURES
• 51V/105Ah ECO Lithium Battery
• 10” Multimedia Digital Display
• Marine-Grade Sound System & 4 Built-in Speakers
• 48V Onboard Charging System with Body Mounted Charge Indicator
• Storage Removable & Lockable Trunk in Rear, Latched and Lit Frunk, Storage Tray Beneath Rear Seats, Locking Glove Compartments
Get on the road and go the distance with the ICON G40 gas golf cart. With a speed range of 19-24 MPH, this rugged and durable 4-passenger vehicle boasts an estimated fuel range of approximately 150+ miles. Well-equipped with a fully integrated digital instrument cluster, LED lighting and signals, and industry-leading brakes for extra safety, this gas golf cart can conquer any terrain!
KEY FEATURES
• Motor 401cc EFIA03, OHV with EFI
• Horsepower 13.5HP @3600rpm per SAE J1995
• Battery 12V
• Brakes 4-Wheel Disc Brakes & Dual Electronic Parking Brake
• Full Light Package LED Headlights, Taillights, Turn Signals
• Safety Side Hip Restraint & Retractable Seat Belts, Mirrors, Horn, Grab Bars, Windshield
• Dash Forward/Reverse Switch, USB and 12V Plugs, Cubby Storage, Multiple Cup Holders, Key Switch, Instrumentation Cluster
• Color White, Forest Green, Indigo Blue & Black
Top Ranked Cancer Experts. The Most Advanced Treatments.
A cancer diagnosis is life-changing. It’s important to have access to top cancer experts and the most advanced treatments available, close to home.
For 40 years, Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute (FCS) has built a national reputation for providing world-class cancer care in community settings.
From genetic screening to immunotherapies and access to the latest clinical trials, our experienced boardcertified oncologists provide the newest and most advanced treatments available for all forms of cancer and blood disorders.
Providing care at four convenient locations in Sumter County:
2955 Brownwood Blvd., Suite 107
The Villages, FL 32163-2040
1503 Buenos Aires Blvd., Suite 140
The Villages, FL 32159-6823
1400 N. US Highway 441, Suite 540
Lady Lake, FL 32159-8987
1400 N. US Highway 441, Suite 924
Lady Lake, FL 32159-8975
Learn more or schedule a consultation today: FLCancer.com
YOUR GO-TO ELECTRICIAN IN CENTRAL FLORIDA
Attorney Shannon McLin, Founder of Florida Appeals Announces Name Change to her Maiden Name, McLin
Attorney Shannon McLin founder of Florida Appeals, recently announced a change back to her maiden name — McLin. With an established career and reputation spanning almost 30 years, this change reflects not only her plans for the future but also pays tribute to her family’s history. Pronounced “MACK’Lin,” the name has inspired the use of the phrase “The Mack is back” among Shannon and her friends and colleagues.
Shannon founded The Carlyle Appellate Law Firm in 1997 which her thenhusband Chris joined in 2004. The firm grew to seven lawyers with three offices across Florida. Following their dissolution of marriage in 2017, Shannon and Chris continued as law partners and Shannon maintained her married name. In 2019, Shannon left the firm and founded Florida Appeals, a boutique firm offering appellate representation and trial support to trial lawyers and their clients throughout Florida. Because the firm was new, Shannon continued to
maintain the name Carlyle, believing it was important for colleagues and clients to know she was the same attorney with a new appellate firm.
“The MACK is back. ”
With Florida Appeals now well established and with the full support of her three children, Shannon decided to go back to using the McLin name professionally. This change is rooted in enormous pride for her family’s history. Shannon is a fifthgeneration Florida McLin, with her father, Walter S. “Buddy” McLin III of McLin Burnsed, being a well-regarded Florida attorney for nearly 50 years. Shannon owes a large part of her success to her father who was known for his honesty and integrity, believing your word is your stock in trade. For Shannon, the McLin name represents the ethics, character, and values inspired by her father. Aside from her father’s legal profession, the McLin name has a long history in Florida stemming from her great, great, great grandfather Benjamin Earnest McLin,
who began as a citrus farmer in Lake County and when the Great Freeze of 1898 destroyed his livelihood, he ran for and was elected Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture, a position he held until his death in 1912.
Shannon McLin and the Florida Appeals team are excited for a new chapter in their firm’s story — a story that now more clearly connects the firm to Shannon McLin’s deep roots in Florida’s history.
LOCATIONS: THE VILLAGES
ORLANDO TAMPA FORT LAUDERDALE
CALL (866) 352-7732
VISIT FLORIDAAPPEALS.COM
NIGHTS OF LIGHTS: A MAGICAL FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
St. Augustine’s most beloved traditions is its annual Nights of Lights Festival, an enchanting event that transforms the historic city into a glowing winter wonderland. Running from mid-November to early January, this award-winning light display is a must-see for visitors and locals alike.
ST. AUGUSTINE
Florida’s northeastern coast, St. Augustine is a treasure trove of rich history, scenic beauty, and a vibrant cultural scene. Known as the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the United States. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a beach lover, or a foodie, St. Augustine has something special for everyone.
A Walk Through History: St. Augustine was founded in 1565 by Spanish explorer Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, and its cobblestone streets are brimming with stories from centuries past. Start your journey at the Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S. Built in the 17th century, this fortress stands as a symbol of resilience and offers stunning views of Matanzas Bay.
From there, stroll down St. George Street, a pedestrian-only avenue lined with historic buildings, boutique shops, and local eateries. Don’t miss the Colonial Quarter,
where reenactments and interactive exhibits bring the city’s Spanish colonial past to life.
A Must-Visit: is the Lightner Museum, housed in the former Alcazar Hotel. Its eclectic collection includes everything from Victorian-era artifacts to stained glass and vintage curiosities. The museum’s picturesque courtyard, complete with a koi pond, is perfect for a serene moment.
No visit to St. Augustine is complete without exploring its stunning coastline. The pristine beaches, such as Anastasia State Park and St. Augustine Beach, are ideal for sunbathing, kayaking, or simply enjoying the sound of crashing waves. For a unique experience, climb the 219 steps of the Lighthouse & Maritime Museum for panoramic views of the city and coastline.
A Foodie’s Paradise: St. Augustine’s culinary scene is as
diverse as its history. Savor fresh seafood at local favorites like O’Steen’s Restaurant, known for its fried shrimp, or enjoy modern coastal cuisine at The Floridian. Don’t forget to stop by Whetstone Chocolates for a sweet treat.
A Unique Experiences: Wander its historic streets, immerse yourself in its stories, and soak in its coastal charm, you’ll discover why it’s a gem of the Sunshine State.
ST. JOHNS COUNTY
DISTANCE: 109 MILES FROM THE VILLAGES® TRAVEL TIME: 2 HOUR 11 MINUTES BY CAR
LAUDERDALE
The Venice of America, Fort Lauderdale, Fl. Nestled along Florida’s southeastern coast, offering a blend of sun-soaked beaches, vibrant culture, and serene waterways. Known as the “Venice of America,” this tropical paradise boasts over 300 miles of navigable canals, making it a haven for boating enthusiasts and those seeking waterfront relaxation.
Fort Lauderdale Beach, with its pristine white sands and turquoise waters, serves as the city’s crown jewel. Visitors can sunbathe, swim, or stroll along the palm-lined promenade dotted with cafes, boutiques, and lively bars. Just a short drive away, Las Olas Boulevard provides an eclectic mix of art galleries, upscale shops, and dining experiences ranging from gourmet cuisine to casual seafood joints.
For nature lovers, the Hugh Taylor Birch State Park offers a tranquil escape. This urban oasis features
lush trails for hiking and biking, as well as opportunities to kayak through mangrove-lined waterways. Meanwhile, the nearby Everglades National Park invites adventurers to explore its unique ecosystem via airboat tours, where alligators and exotic birds make frequent appearances.
Fort Lauderdale also embraces its maritime heritage with over 300 miles of inland waterways, which can be explored via water taxis, gondolas, or private boat tours and the iconic Fort Lauderdale Boat Show, the largest of its kind in the world. History buffs can explore the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, a historic estate showcasing early 20th-century Floridian charm.
The city’s vibrant nightlife and cultural scene are equally captivating. Rooftop lounges, live music venues, and theater performances keep the energy alive after sunset. Additionally, Fort Lauderdale’s diverse culinary
offerings reflect its multicultural influences, serving everything from Caribbean-inspired dishes to classic American fare.
Whether you’re cruising along its canals, lounging by the beach, or diving into its cultural treasures, Fort Lauderdale offers a destination that balances relaxation with adventure, making it a perfect getaway for travelers of all kinds.
BROWARD COUNTY
DISTANCE: 259 MILES FROM THE VILLAGES®
TRAVEL TIME: 4 HOUR BY CAR
ORLANDO
Villagers feeling the urge to burst through the bubble and explore Florida should indulge in the abundance of attractions and opportunities to enjoy in nearby Orange County.
Explore Orlando’s Fun Spots: Southeast of The Villages® lies the magical city of Orlando, home to world-renowned theme parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld Orlando. Whether you're seeking exhilarating rides, enchanting characters or aquatic adventures, Orlando offers endless entertainment for all ages.
Discover Natural Beauty: Orange County boasts several picturesque parks and outdoor spaces. The Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve is a serene oasis with hiking trails, wildlife and stunning views. Lake Eola Park, located in downtown Orlando, offers a scenic lake with a walking trail along its perimeter, swan-shaped paddleboats and regular events like farmers markets and concerts.
Shop and Dine: Shopaholics and food enthusiasts must visit The Florida Mall for modish stores and
a food court with a multitude of choices. Or try The Mall at Millenia for upscale shopping featuring renowned fashion brands and luxurious boutiques. For a more eclectic experience, explore Winter Garden, where charming streets are lined with independent shops, trendy restaurants and cozy cafes.
Cultural Immersion: The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts hosts world-class Broadway shows, concerts and ballet performances.
The Orlando Museum of Art and the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art showcase an impressive collection of visual arts.
Sports: Catch NBA action at the Amway Center, home of the up-andcoming Orlando Magic, led by 2023 Rookie of the Year Paolo Banchero. Hockey enthusiasts should check out the Orlando Solar Bears. Get a kick out of Major League Soccer at Exploria Stadium, where Orlando City SC plays. Football fans have two choices of teams to follow – the Orlando Guardians of the XFL or the Orlando Predators in the Arena League. Golf lovers will find a multitude of challenging courses throughout the county, perfect for honing their skills.
With all that just a hop, skip and jump away, head on out Villagers and enjoy a diverse range of activities and experiences beyond the bubble. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, culture or entertainment, Orange County offers something for everyone. So, take a day trip or weekend getaway and explore the many treasures of Orange County.
ORANGE COUNTY
DISTANCE: 57.8 MILES FROM THE VILLAGES®
TRAVEL TIME: 1 HOUR BY CAR
FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING
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DDESTIN
estin, Florida: A Quick Guide to the Emerald Coast.
Located along Florida’s stunning Emerald Coast, Destin is famed for its sugar-white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and family-friendly charm. Known as the “World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” it’s a top destination for relaxation and adventure.
Why Visit Destin:
Destin’s beaches are its crown jewel, featuring cool, quartz sand and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The city also boasts a vibrant fishing scene, with plentiful charter opportunities for anglers of all levels. Add in fresh Gulf seafood, water sports, and a lively harbor boardwalk, and it’s clear why Destin is so beloved.
a dolphin cruise offers a chance to see these playful creatures in their natural habitat. The Destin Harbor Boardwalk is a must-visit for dining, shopping, and sunset views. Adventure seekers can enjoy parasailing, jet skiing, or a trip to Crab Island, a shallow sandbar popular for swimming and floating. Families should check out Big Kahuna’s Water & Adventure Park for slides and wave pools.
It would be a shame to only experience Destin from the ground or the water. An aerial view can let you appreciate just how spectacular it is. Helicopter tours are available. Once up in the air the views are amazing.
Dining and Accommodations:
When to Visit: Visit between April and October for warm weather and ideal swimming conditions. Spring and fall offer fewer crowds, while summer buzzes with activity.
Destin delivers stunning beaches, great food, and endless fun. Whether you’re fishing, relaxing, or exploring, it’s the perfect coastal getaway.
Top Activities: Start with the beaches, like Henderson Beach State Park or Crystal Sands, for sun and surf. For wildlife enthusiasts,
Destin’s seafood scene is top-notch. Try Boshamps Seafood & Oyster House for fresh oysters or The Back Porch for Gulf views and crab legs. Stay in resorts like Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort for family-friendly fun or opt for a beachfront condo for a more private escape.
OKALOOSA COUNTY
DISTANCE:
366 MILES FROM THE VILLAGES®
TRAVEL TIME: 5 HOUR 15 MINUTES BY CAR
