Escaping Winter in Lakewood Ranch

by Adam Miller

Escaping Winter in Lakewood Ranch: John & Linda’s Journey to Find the Perfect Florida Retreat

Picture this: It’s January, and you're out there in the freezing cold, shoveling snow for the third time this season. Now, imagine stepping out your front door, feeling the warm Florida breeze at 75 degrees, with only one worry on your mind—how many rounds of golf you can squeeze into your day. That’s the dream John and Linda Carmichael were after, and today, we’re sharing their journey to find the ultimate winter escape in Lakewood Ranch, Florida. If you’ve ever dreamed of trading harsh winters for endless sunshine, this might be the story you didn’t know you needed.

Meet John and Linda: Searching for a Second Home to Escape Chicago Winters

Like many snowbirds, John and Linda wanted a sanctuary where they could escape Chicago’s brutal winters from December to April. They imagined a place of their own—no renters, no stress—just a beautiful home where they could relax and embrace the Florida lifestyle. Their search led them to two exceptional Lakewood Ranch communities: a villa at Azario Esplanade, offering golf-course access right outside their door, and a newly built, modern home in Emerald Landing, located just a stone’s throw from the bustling Waterside Place. Which lifestyle would suit them best?

First Stop: Azario Esplanade – A Golfer’s Dream

Our first visit brought John and Linda to Azario Esplanade, a luxury villa nestled right on the golf course. From the moment they stepped inside, John’s face lit up. As an avid golfer, having the greens so close was a dream come true for him. Linda, on the other hand, loved the spacious, open layout—the ideal space for hosting family during the holidays. The villa’s kitchen flows seamlessly into the living area, creating a perfect setup for entertaining when the family comes to visit.

azario esplanade lakewood ranch | the 941 lifestyle group

But Azario Esplanade offers much more than stunning homes. This community boasts resort-style amenities, including a sprawling swimming pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, multiple pickleball and tennis courts, a salon and spa, and even a full-service restaurant and bar. It’s a place where relaxation and recreation go hand-in-hand, offering John and Linda everything they could want from a winter retreat. But Linda started to wonder: with so much happening in Lakewood Ranch, were they missing out on the vibrant lifestyle that other neighborhoods, like Emerald Landing, could offer?

A Change of Scene: Exploring Emerald Landing at Waterside Place

The next stop on our tour was Emerald Landing, a neighborhood just a quick walk, golf cart ride, or short drive to the ever-bustling Waterside Place. As soon as they entered the new construction home, Linda was drawn to the high ceilings, sleek finishes, and modern, airy design—perfect for the family gatherings she envisioned. For John and Linda, though, it wasn’t just about the house itself; it was about the lifestyle that came with living near Waterside Place, a lively hub of activity in Lakewood Ranch.

Waterside Place is the heart of it all, offering weekly Ranch Nights on Wednesdays, a bustling farmers’ market every Sunday, and a vibrant mix of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. For John and Linda, Emerald Landing’s proximity to Waterside Place added a new layer of excitement, with endless opportunities for socializing, shopping, and dining right at their doorstep. And the amenities? Emerald Landing pulls out all the stops with its resort-style pool, cabanas, pickleball courts, fire pits, and a convenient dog park. Plus, the added bonus of a water taxi to Waterside Place made this community even more appealing.

The Big Decision: Peaceful Golf Retreat or Vibrant Waterside Living?

As they weighed their options, John and Linda faced a tough decision. John was leaning towards the peaceful, golf-centered lifestyle at Azario Esplanade, imagining mornings spent on the course, surrounded by quiet and scenic views. Linda, however, couldn’t help but picture herself walking through the farmers’ market, savoring the lively atmosphere at Waterside Place, and being right in the middle of the action.

Each community offered something unique: the serene escape of Azario Esplanade with direct golf course access, or the active, social vibe of Emerald Landing, where every day brings something new to explore. It’s a choice many snowbirds face when looking for their ideal winter getaway—balancing peaceful relaxation with an engaging, dynamic community.

The Verdict: A Lifestyle that Fits Just Right

In the end, John and Linda chose the tranquil villa at Azario Esplanade. For them, the direct access to golf and the serene atmosphere provided the perfect retreat from the Chicago winters. With all the amenities they needed right at their fingertips, it was the ideal blend of luxury and leisure they had dreamed about.

azario esplanade lakewood ranch | the 941 lifestyle group

So, if you’re sitting at home right now, thinking about finding your winter haven, ask yourself: Do you crave a quiet, golf-centered community or a vibrant neighborhood buzzing with events and social opportunities? In Lakewood Ranch, there’s truly a place for everyone. Whether it’s a peaceful villa or a lively community near Waterside Place, Lakewood Ranch offers a lifestyle tailored to suit every desire.

Ready to find your perfect winter escape? Reach out to The 941 Lifestyle Group, and let’s start matching you to the community that fits your ideal lifestyle.

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