It was a great time to escape snowy Chicago in early March and enjoy the sunny west coast of Florida. I enjoyed staying at Renaissance Hotel in Tampa, a terrific hotel adjacent to International Plaza and Bay Street dining. I was delighted to see the indoor mall was thriving and the upscale restaurants were in full festive mode with outdoor dining, music and lights. I took full advantage of the diverse cuisine and libations each evening after swimming in the lovely hotel pool during the day.

Renaissance Hotel

The purpose of the trip (other than to soak up the atmosphere, of course) was to work with the Philadelphia Phillies at BayCare Park, the spring training facility in Clearwater. The players were actively engaged, and we had fun practicing interviews in both English and Spanish. The park suffered some minor damage during Hurricane Ian last fall but is now fully operational. On my final day I visited Clearwater Beach and wistfully walked in the sand before departing for Chicago.

Phillies executive Paola Mora.

Player Development Director Preston Mattingly. (I interviewed father Don back in the day—fun to connect)

Fun fact: On the tram at Tampa International Airport, Mayor Jane Castor via audio reminded us that TPA is always a fan favorite in the Global Traveler survey!

Getting ready for Game Day

— Sue Castorino, member of GT’s Globility Board