Article

Anisa Benitez: Reconnect With Yourself In Kissimmee

Creative wellness advocate and content creator Anisa Benitez, known for her No Starving Artist podcast and mindful storytelling, explores Kissimmee’s relaxing side in The Kissimmee Experience — from goat yoga and spa days to sustainable wine tastings and quiet moments of reflection.

Anisa Benitez and Jen Bonner chat by the pool at Gaylord Palms Resort.

Anisa and Jen enjoy drinks from the SandBar at Gaylord Palms Resort.

Sometimes, the best adventures start when you slow down. In Kissimmee, relaxation comes naturally, whether you’re unwinding at a resort spa, finding serenity among friendly farm animals, or sipping locally made fruit wine under the Florida sun. In this episode of The Kissimmee Experience, creative wellness advocate and content creator Anisa Benitez joins host Jen Bonner for a three-day journey through mindfulness, connection, and self-care in the Big, Bold Heart of Florida.

Stretch, Smile, and Slow Down at Bell Family Farm & Apiary

At Bell Family Farm & Apiary, wellness takes a playful twist with goat yoga, a guest favorite that blends laughter and balance with a bit of furry friendship. As Anisa and Jen flowed through their yoga poses, goats of all sizes trotted around the group, sometimes sitting beside guests, other times showing off their climbing skills.

Beyond yoga, visitors can explore the working farm, meet other animals, and support a local family-owned business that’s built on care and community. It’s a joyful reminder that mindfulness doesn’t have to be serious — sometimes, it’s best enjoyed with a bleating companion or two.

My favorite part of the trip was the people. There’s a high quality of life in Kissimmee that attracts people who want to enjoy this unpredictable time... Those who choose boldly to embrace the present moment and enjoy it regardless, I find they often have wonderful energy and are a pleasure to be around.  

— Anisa Benitez 

Relaxation in Style at Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center

After a morning of laughter and fresh air, Anisa and Jen headed to Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center, a tropical oasis designed for ultimate relaxation. At the resort’s South Beach Pool, they enjoyed refreshing drinks and light bites from the SandBar while lounging in a private cabana.

The afternoon continued with a rejuvenating visit to the Relâche Spa, where guests can choose from hydrafacials, massages, and body treatments inspired by nature. Nestled beside the resort’s lush Everglades atrium, the spa offers a true sense of escape and is an ideal spot to recharge before your next Kissimmee adventure.

I was surprised by the variety of experiences offered in Kissimmee, which cater to a wide range of people. It’s great for big families who aren’t always on the same page around vacation plans. It felt like anyone would be able to enjoy themselves.  

— Anisa Benitez 

Sip and Savor at Formosa Winery Tasting House

To cap off their wellness-filled getaway, Anisa and Jen visited Formosa Winery Tasting House, a beautiful, sustainable fruit winery celebrating Florida’s agricultural roots. Here, guests can sample blueberry and tropical fruit wines made from locally grown produce while overlooking the gardens and vineyards that make each sip possible.

The winery also hosts tastings, seasonal events, and a farm-to-table café, making it a refreshing stop for anyone looking to combine wellness, flavor, and community connection.

The trip was hugely relaxing, especially in contrast to my usual New York City winter. The warm weather, friendly people, peaceful nature, and relaxing experiences at the spa, winery, and yoga farm were all a welcomed change of pace. I left feeling nourished. 

— Anisa Benitez 

 

Reconnect in Kissimmee

From playful yoga sessions and luxury spa treatments to sustainable wine tastings, Kissimmee is the perfect destination to recharge your body and mind. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, there’s always a way to reconnect — with nature, with others, and with yourself.

Inspired by Anisa Benitez’s journey in The Kissimmee Experience? Start planning your own peaceful escape and share your favorite moments with #MyKissimmee.