Eating at Your Villa
If you decide to stay at a villa in Orlando you will be amazed at the advantages it has over staying in a hotel no matter how nice the latter is.
One of the advantages is being able to eat and/or cook whatever you want whenever you want a...
Viewed 729 times since 6 February 2011.
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Making the Most of Your Villa Part 1
It may the first time you have stayed in a villa or you may have been visiting Florida for many years staying in a villa but I thought I would share a few things we find help us to enjoy our stay even more.
Most owners are happy to provid...
Viewed 450 times since 18 May 2011.
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Making the Most of Your Villa - Part 2
In Making The Most of Your Villa part 1 I shared things we pre planned before our holiday.
The first morning in Orlando everyone seems to get up early. In the summer I like nothing more than to sit by the pool with a cup of tea and watch ...
Viewed 440 times since 18 May 2011.
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Making the Most of Your Villa Part 3
In Part 1 and 2 of Making the Most of Your villa I wrote about pre planning and the first day at the villa.
When you stay at a villa you may also want to buy things of the villa for the children to enjoy, these are relatively inexpensive....
Viewed 418 times since 18 May 2011.
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Green Meadows Petting Farm (1)
It is exactly as it sounds……in Orlando!! The Petting Farm is situated in South Poinciana Blvd, away from the main attraction area. This is a lovely, cheap half day out for little ones – if your kids (and/or yourselves!) are “Disneyed out” and you ...
Viewed 1506 times since 1 September 2008.
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Daytona Beach
Daytona Beach is located on Florida’s Central East Coast, just an hour’s drive from Orlando, and is accessible from Interstates 4 and 95. This is a reasonable distance for a day trip although some families like to stay overnight to enjoy everythin...
Viewed 76 times since 1 September 2008.
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Last Day at Gatorland
Gatorland is a great place to visit on the last day of your holiday as if you have an evening flight as it is a park you can go around in a few hours. You will find Gatorland on the South Orange Blossom Trail; we usually travel along the 417 ...
Viewed 737 times since 22 October 2009.
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Ghosts and Gravestones Tour
On one of the few cloudy evenings in St Augustine we decided to go on the Ghosts and Gravestones Tour thinking that the weather might add to the atmosphere! The tours take place nightly except of Christmas Eve or Christmas night and lasts abo...
Viewed 708 times since 12 January 2010.
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Things to Do at St Petersburg
If you ever get the opportunity do try to visit the town of St. Petersburg which is on the opposite coast to St Petersburg beach. Here you will find a variety of historic buildings, museums, and other sightseeing opportunities.
A good way...
Viewed 458 times since 3 February 2011.
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All You Can Eat Breakfasts
The key to a great start to the day is have a hearty breakfast that will take you through to early evening – of course you have to keep hunger at bay with some kind of ice cream sundae! All you can eat buffets are perfect to start the day. Remembe...
Viewed 4003 times since 1 September 2008.
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Rainforest Cafe
We visited the Rainforest Cage at Downtown Disney, but there is also one at the entrance of Animal Kingdom – you do not need to enter the park to dine here however. This a great place for the kids and now that they offer priority seating I ...
Viewed 1640 times since 1 September 2008.
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Shoney's Breakfast
The morning after we arrive in Orlando we usually wake early – the girls have been known to be up at 4. 00am! After the usual frenzied excitement and many leaps in the pool they are starving and invariably our late arrival the night before means w...
Viewed 2344 times since 1 September 2008.
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TGI Fridays, Orlando
This is one of our favourite restaurants in Orlando, made all the more enjoyable by the fact that the prices in dollars are usually the same as charged in pounds in the UK ie £14 = $14. We have visited several TGI’s in the Orlando area ...
Viewed 4562 times since 1 September 2008.
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Orlando Dinner Shows
Many families are exhausted at the end of the day in Orlando but for those who want an evening out these are some of the Dinner Shows you may wish to visit. ARABIAN NIGHTS 6225 W.Irlo Bronson Highway, Kissimmee – located half ...
Viewed 1801 times since 1 September 2008.
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Must-Do Snacks In Orlando
We have been visiting Florida for some 20 years now and have found many snacks that we love and we keep on trying more! If you like your food, Florida is a great place to vacation……..here are some of our favourites and “you must try” snacks! <...
Viewed 1500 times since 1 September 2008.
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Cracker Barrel Restaurant And Retail Store
For several years our only experience of Cracker Barrel was looking down on them as we passed exits on the I4 and wondered why their car parks were so full and there were always a lot of people sitting in rocking chairs outside. Our initial percep...
Viewed 2082 times since 1 September 2008.
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Dolphin Hotel Restaurant
Todd English's bluezoo The adults in our party recently visited one of the newest entries in the Walt Disney World restaurant arena at the WDW Dolphin Hotel, Todd English’s bluezoo. Owner Todd English is well known for his Boston fla...
Viewed 1476 times since 1 September 2008.
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JT's Prime Time Family Restaurant And Bar
This restaurant is situated at: 8553 West Irlo Bronson Hwy (192) Kissimmee FL34746 Tel: 407 239 6555 and is one of the favourites for our villa guests from all over the world. It is located 4 miles west of Disney World en...
Viewed 2562 times since 1 September 2008.
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Beef O Bradys
Beef O Brady’s are a chain of Sports Bars that have been springing up throughout Florida. We use the one on the 192 located at: The Shoppes of Vista del Largo 8687 West Irlo Bronson Hwy West 192 407 239 7710. To ...
Viewed 1179 times since 1 September 2008.
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Epcot Dining
You really are spoilt for choice whether you want enjoy a snack, down for lunch or have a relaxing meal when you visit Epcot. If you want just a quick bite you can go to Showcase Plaza’s Refreshment Port where you can get drinks, McDonald...
Viewed 1494 times since 1 September 2008.
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Chef Mickey''s
Having been to a few character meals, we decided to book Chef Mickey this year at Contemporary Resort – the restaurant where the Magic Kingdom monorail goes through. Our theory was that if was not weather for a park we could still go and enjoy the...
Viewed 1947 times since 1 September 2008.
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PIRATE'S DINNER ADVENTURE
This is located just off International Drive at: 6400 Carrier Drive Orlando, FL 32819 Phone: 407.248.0590 As with many of the dinner shows be sure to look in the free discount voucher books before you go as many of these gi...
Viewed 66 times since 1 September 2008.
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Boston Lobster Feast (1)
My Father is particularly fond of Lobster and all kinds of fish so my parents have been dining at Boston Lobster Feast sine they opened in the early 1990s. Apparently these restaurants started in the garage of Jeff Hazell, a native of Marblehe...
Viewed 2064 times since 1 September 2008.
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DINING AT DOWNTOWN DISNEY
I definitely recommend a visit to DownTown Disney simply to take in the atmosphere, stroll around the shops (and obviously buy if you want to!) and then finish the evening with something to eat. There are plenty of options but here are some we have v...
Viewed 1381 times since 1 September 2008.
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Hooters Restaurant
If you fancy a pitcher of beer or sangria and do not want to wait ages for your food, then Hooters is worth a visit. There are a few dotted around Orlando and you can’t mistake them as the logo is in Orange – there’s is a nice one at Lake Buena Vista...
Viewed 1867 times since 1 September 2008.
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Epcot - Child Friendly Restaurants
Most restaurants in Orlando are child friendly but if your children are anything like ours they can at times be picky eaters, so I thought I would let you have a few ideas that we have picked up along the way whilst visiting Epcot. The Sunshin...
Viewed 1387 times since 1 September 2008.
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TooJays Restaurant
TooJay's began as a modest New York-style delicatessen on the Island of Palm Beach in the spring of 1981. Started by Jay Brown and Mark Jay Katzenberg, they used the common portion of both of their names to derive the name TooJay's Gourmet Deli. One ...
Viewed 2801 times since 1 September 2008.
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Mickeys Backyard BBQ
We visited Mickey’s Backyard BBQ for the first time earlier this year. There were eight of us and we had a good time, however I suspect visitors without children might find the evening rather chaotic. It really caters for families, has a live country...
Viewed 2353 times since 1 September 2008.
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Spirit of Aloha Show
We went with friends to this Dinner Show and although we had a good time was glad we did not have the girls with us as they may have found it a bit too grown up. Its aim is for you to celebrate the spirit of aloha, as well as the sights, sound...
Viewed 1342 times since 1 September 2008.
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Flying Fish Cafe
If you enjoy dining out and are not in a rush on the way home from the Parks it is well worth a visit to the Flying Fish Café that is situated at Disney’s Boardwalk. This 170-seat restaurant has a diverse menu of fish, game, meats and vegetarian spec...
Viewed 1548 times since 1 September 2008.
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Trails End Restaurant
Although we have never eaten here friends of ours visited this restaurant and have recommended it. They went to it by boat from the Magic Kingdom and I believe you can also travel by boat to it from Wilderness Lodge or Contemporary Resort. As...
Viewed 1520 times since 1 September 2008.
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Child Friendly Restaurants at Epcot
Like most of the Parks at Disney you will find many child friendly dining options at Epcot. We visited the Sunshine Season Food Faire shortly after it had been refurbished in late 2005. This is a food-court style dining area, located in the L...
Viewed 1288 times since 1 September 2008.
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Fantasmic Dining Experience
If you are planning to see Fantasmic at the end of your day at the Parks you may want to take advantage of the Fantasmic! Dining Experience. You are allowed to book the package up to 180 days in advance. This package includes dinner at one of...
Viewed 1404 times since 1 September 2008.
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Princess Storybook Dining
Norway’s Restaurant Akershus in Epcot serves three character meals each day, breakfast, lunch and dinner. Breakfast is American style and lunch and dinner offers Norwegian food as well as American style for children. All meals are serve...
Viewed 1526 times since 1 September 2008.
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Victoria and Alberts Restaurant
We have never dined here as it is quite expensive and as we usually have the whole family with us really feel we cannot justify the cost with so much more to do at Disney. However if you are celebrating a special occasion it is the perfect pl...
Viewed 1309 times since 1 September 2008.
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The Yak and Yeti Restaurant - Animal Kingdom
A lovely time to arrive at Animal Kingdom is at opening time. The traffic is reasonable at that time of the morning and many of the characters are at the front of the Park only too ready to sign autographs and have their photos taken. When yo...
Viewed 1382 times since 1 September 2008.
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Bistro de Paris - Epcot
This Restaurant situated in Epcot is a lovely place to enjoy a special occasion or even just a leisurely well paced dinner without having to dress up. Friends who have also dined at Victoria and Alberts recommended it and they felt the food was as go...
Viewed 1551 times since 1 September 2008.
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Playhouse Disneys Hollywood and Vine Lunch
At the Hollywood and Vine you have a choice of two character meals either Breakfast or Lunch. Having been to several character breakfasts we opted for lunch and were not disappointed. As with all character meals be prepared to book well in ad...
Viewed 1496 times since 1 September 2008.
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Child Friendly Restaurants at Magic Kingdom
Walt Disney World restaurants have got to be amongst the most child friendly in the whole world. Children are always made very welcome although of course they are expected to be well behaved. In this article are just a few myself or friends h...
Viewed 1378 times since 1 September 2008.
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Pinocchio’s Village Haus - Magic Kingdom
If we are going to eat lunch at the Magic Kingdom we tend to have a light breakfast at the villa before going to the Park. If you want to get to the Park for the opening you are best to plan on arriving at the car park about half an hour before the P...
Viewed 1403 times since 1 September 2008.
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Breakfast Options in Orlando
We are lucky that we can stay at our villa in Orlando and when we do we often stay in for breakfast. We tend to have completely different breakfast from what we would have at home. Granddad goes to Publix which is less than a mile away and buys fresh...
Viewed 1729 times since 1 September 2008.
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Tutto Italia Restaurant – Italy - Epcot
Our girls love this restaurant in Italy at Epcot; we eat quite a lot of Italian food at home and find this a really authentic place to eat. We had made a reservation for lunch so we had a very light breakfast at the villa followed by a swim in the po...
Viewed 1408 times since 26 September 2008.
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Teppan Eda Restaurant
My family and are fans of the Japanese culture and we loved the décor here and found it great getting involved with the staff her. After initially being shy and giggling even the girls joined in with the bowing. As you do in Japanese restaura...
Viewed 1029 times since 3 January 2009.
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Boma Breakfast Buffet
If you want a change from breakfast in your villa or from one of the chains selling all u can eat breakfasts I really would recommend you try Boma’s breakfast buffet at Animal Kingdom Lodge. They serve all u can eat breakfast from 7. 30am unt...
Viewed 1582 times since 17 January 2009.
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Narcoosee's Restaurant
You can travel to the Grand Floridian by monorail, when you get there you will pass several restaurants at the entrance, Narcoosee' s is housed in a separate building, on the lagoon. It takes about five minutes to walk to it from the main buildin...
Viewed 1050 times since 18 January 2009.
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Bongo's Cuban Cafe
Bongos Cuban Café is a blend of authentic Cuban cuisine with the culture of old Havana, with a bit of South Beach glamour. The two story pineapple design fills the skyline of Downtown Disney. No detail was spared by the designer from the dazz...
Viewed 1062 times since 25 January 2009.
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Captain Jacks Restaurant
If we are in Orlando and the weather is mixed with a fair amount of rain we often head for Downtown Disney. There is so much to do there for all ages that it is easy to wile away your day. Last time we went we had only had a light breakfast a...
Viewed 1622 times since 5 February 2009.
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Chilis at Cagan Crossings
Cagan Crossings is a fairly new retail development situated on the 27 near its junction with the 192. If you need to access it from the 192 just head north onto the 27 and after half a mile on the right you will see Chili’s. On the right hand...
Viewed 1279 times since 6 February 2009.
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Dinner at Boma Restaurant AK
This is a family restaurant in Animal Kingdom Lodge that serves breakfast and dinner. It captures the vibrant life in the African marketplace and is a fun buffet restaurant where you will enjoy the African experience with its multicultural influences...
Viewed 1173 times since 9 April 2009.
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House Of Blues - Downtown Disney
Having spent a very enjoyable evening wandering around Downtown Disney we came upon the House of Blues and tried to get a dinner reservation. Unfortunately they were extremely busy and we could not be seated. We decided therefore to return one lunch ...
Viewed 1280 times since 11 April 2009.
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Eating Vegetarian in Orlando
If you want to book a dinner reservation at Disney you can book well in advance. We usually book 72 hours in advance but friends of ours who are vegetarian always book at least a week in advance. If you are dining at some of the fine dining restauran...
Viewed 1096 times since 13 July 2009.
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Nine Dragons Epcot - re-opened
This restaurant was extensively refurbished earlier this year being closed for many months. We had last dined here a few years ago and the food had been good so we thought we would try the revamped restaurant. The refurbishment looked great e...
Viewed 1076 times since 13 July 2009.
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Shulas Steakhouse WDW Dolphin
This really is a wonderful place to dine and enjoy the finer food and drink of this world but at a price. However the service and food at this restaurant is exceptional. Pre- booking your table is essential here. The dress code as you would e...
Viewed 693 times since 22 October 2009.
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Lunch at Bahama Breeze
My parents love Bahama Breeze and the one they go to is at Lake Buena Vista. As it is usually very busy at night there is often a long wait for tables so is not always a good choice when we have tired girls with us. This is why we decided to take the...
Viewed 774 times since 22 October 2009.
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Picnic in the Park - healthy options
Disney came up with another good idea when they introduced Picnic in the Park in April 2009. Not all visitors want to indulge in burgers, chips and even more chips so this is a great option. The basic idea of the programme is to select from two choic...
Viewed 773 times since 8 November 2009.
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Economical Eating at the Parks
At one time Disney used to have a policy asking that guests did not bring food and drink into the theme parks and from what I can remember I never saw this enforced. Nowadays this has changed and guests are allowed in food like snacks or food that do...
Viewed 634 times since 8 November 2009.
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Dining with Babies and Toddlers
Nearly all Disney/Orlando restaurants, whether they be in a park, a resort hotel or just located near your villa are exceptionally baby and child friendly, after all Disney is for children! The only place where you might not be welcomed with open arm...
Viewed 607 times since 29 December 2009.
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The Wave - Contemporary Resort
This restaurant which seats 220 is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner and aims as well as providing great food to being health conscious. You enter the restaurant on the first floor of the hotel through a brushed steel arch ' tunnel' ...
Viewed 758 times since 29 December 2009.
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Seasons 52 Restaurant
Friends are ours returned from their trip to Florida full of praise after they had visited Seasons52. I ha previously not heard of this restaurant but apparently it was the first of a chain of these restaurants to be opened in Florida and it became i...
Viewed 507 times since 31 December 2009.
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Restaurant Row
There is an area around Dr Philips and Sandlake Road that has become known as “Restaurant Row”. There is a great choice of dining although some of it is quite pricey but perfect for that special occasion. In this guide I will try to list some of the ...
Viewed 1044 times since 31 December 2009.
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Dining out with Children in Orlando
There are so many places for to eat out in Orlando you are really spoilt for choice. In the first few days of our holiday when the girls are usually over excited, up early and flagging after a long day at the parks we usually stop at one of the all-u...
Viewed 732 times since 31 December 2009.
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Paradiso 37 Restaurant - Downtown Disney
Next time you go to Downtown Disney you might like to visit the Paradiso 37 restaurant which opened in the summer of 2009 and is situated in the Pleasure Island district of Downtown Disney, between the Adventurer’s Club and Harley Davidson Orlando. <...
Viewed 908 times since 31 December 2009.
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Sweet Tomato Restaurants
This group of restaurants advertise themselves as “a serve-yourself, all-you-care-to-eat dining experience featuring the freshest vegetables, salads, made-from-scratch soups and muffins, hot pastas and more! ” We had seen them for several years in Or...
Viewed 753 times since 31 December 2009.
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Eating Out withour Breaking the Budget
Many families find the cheapest way to eat out in Orlando is by going to one of the many All You Can Eat restaurants. These can be great as on the way to the Parks you can stop off for breakfast and there is such a vast selection of food the whole fa...
Viewed 780 times since 31 December 2009.
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Longhorn Restaurant
Our villa is situated at the far end of the 192 about a mile before it meets the 27. The Longhorn Steakhouse had often been recommended to us by friends who raved about the steaks. Until recently the nearest one has been quite a drive away which ofte...
Viewed 757 times since 31 December 2009.
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Gospel House of Blues Brunch
We had wanted to go to the House of Blues in Downtown Disney, West side for some time. Here there is a Gospel Brunch every Sunday and it is billed as “A musical celebration of the ' good news, ' praise & thanksgiving, with a delicious all...
Viewed 681 times since 1 January 2010.
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The Big River Bar and Grille
The Big River Bar and Grille at the Boardwalk offers both lunch and dinner and it is a particularly good place to go if you are a beer fan as they have a good selection. The first time we visited we had lunch here after meeting up with some f...
Viewed 687 times since 1 January 2010.
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Outback Restaurant at Orlando Airport
Before we return home on our transatlantic flight to the UK from our villa in Orlando we usually have one last meal at the airport. Over the last few years we have eaten at the Outback Restaurant at Orlando International Airport. Outback is l...
Viewed 761 times since 4 January 2010.
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Kres Restaurant
We normally do not go to Downtown Orlando to dine but we were invited to dine there by some American friends when we were last over at our villa. Kres Chophouse is located in Church Street Orlando it serves lunch Monday to Friday 11:30am to 5...
Viewed 714 times since 6 January 2010.
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Dining at Non Disney Restaurants
Some people like to have most of their meals in Disney restaurants to keep the magic but they should consider other places such as the ones in Downtown Disney, the Crossroads Shopping Center or other locations. These usually have the same theming as ...
Viewed 706 times since 9 January 2010.
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Bubba Gump - Treasure Island
We had previously eaten at the Bubba Gump restaurant at Universal Studios but on a recent day trip to Treasure Island we decided to eat at the newly opened one at St Johns Pass at Madeira Beach. St Johns Pass is a turn-of-the-century fishing ...
Viewed 1233 times since 12 January 2010.
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Daiquiri Deck
We had originally visited Daiquiri Deck some time ago when we visited Siesta Key and were impressed with it. On one of our day trips to Madeira Beach we decided to eat here before returning to our villa in Orlando. I was fascinated by their e...
Viewed 892 times since 17 January 2010.
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Eating/Dining at the Loop
The first time my Mother and I tried to go to The Loop without my Father we must have spent two hours driving up and down the 417 trying to find it. So much so we expected the sheriff’s car to pull us over after reports of two women behaving strangel...
Viewed 724 times since 22 January 2010.
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Harry's Seafood Bar - St Augustine
One afternoon in St Augustine when we got off our Trolley Bus on its final session of the day it suddenly started to rain heavily. Opposite our trolley stop was Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grille and we decided to dive for cover in there. It was ...
Viewed 663 times since 22 January 2010.
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Indian Restaurant - The Clay Oven
Although we have been going to Florida for over twenty years we always seemed to be searching for a good Indian restaurant. The Passage to India used to have a restaurant on International Drive near the Belz Outlet Shopping area (this is now Prime Ou...
Viewed 896 times since 7 January 2011.
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Applebees at Orange Lake
Whilst we were delighted when Applebee’s at Berry Centre opened near our villa a couple of years ago we were thrilled when another branch opened on our doorstep at Orange Lakes Shopping Centre. There had been a lot of speculation about what was being...
Viewed 105 times since 2 November 2011.
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Hollywood Studios - A Kid's Guide
A great movie park but not just full of
facts – many many things for kids to enjoy – lots of characters appear at
this park and as it is not as busy as the other Disney parks, often easier
to get a photograph, autograph or ...
Viewed 1214 times since 1 September 2008.
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Meet And Greet The Disney Characters
The most important part of the holiday – WHERE TO
SEE THE CHARACTERS!!
This is always at the
forefront of most parent’s minds. All the videos give the impression that the characters are
walking ar...
Viewed 1345 times since 1 September 2008.
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Christmas at Disney
The residents of Orlando put up the most amazing lights around their houses, in their gardens, on their roofs etc! Visit CELEBRATION off the 192 where for approx 4 weeks there are nightly snow sessions which the children will love. MAGIC KI...
Viewed 14910 times since 1 September 2008.
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Toddlers in Disney's Magic Kingdom
People are apprehensive when taking 2-4 years old to Orlando but there is so
much to do and although they may not remember everything when they are older,
the looks on their faces and the photos are such memories that they must not be
missed...
Viewed 3735 times since 1 September 2008.
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Magic Kingdom - Hidden Mickeys
Our girls love looking for “hidden Mickey's” in the Disney Parks and over the years we have compiled a list from those we have found and those we have been told about by friends and guests at our villa. Although the girls have already found lots w...
Viewed 2983 times since 1 September 2008.
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Hollywood Studios - Hidden Mickeys
Having started this passion at Magic Kingdom then moved on to Epcot our girls have now spent many happy hours searching for hidden Mickeys at Hollywood Studios. This list is some that they have already found and others I have been told abou...
Viewed 1315 times since 1 September 2008.
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Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom
On our last visit my 7 year old niece was adamant she wanted to spend as much time as she could in Fantasyland. As the Easter holidays were fast approaching we set off, after an all-can-eat breakfast at Golden Coral of course, shortly after 9.00am...
Viewed 1217 times since 1 September 2008.
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Animal Kingdom Parade
We usually visit Animal Kingdom in the first couple of days of our holiday as this park is not too tiring and easy to stroll around. However do not miss the Animal Kingdom Parade which starts in Africa and finishes in Africa so you can see it...
Viewed 1498 times since 1 September 2008.
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Epcot Candlelight Procession
The Candlelight Procession at Epcot simply has to be seen. A Disney tradition that occurs every year (now in its 36th year!) starting just before Thanksgiving until the end of the December (2006 dates are 24th November to 30th December). The best wa...
Viewed 1650 times since 1 September 2008.
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Family Magic Tour at Magic Kingdom
We did this tour last year and can really recommend it to families with children between 5 and 12 that enjoy Magic Kingdom. The tour takes you on a one-of-a-kind interactive tour through Main St, Liberty Square, Tomorrowland and Fantasyland. D...
Viewed 1642 times since 1 September 2008.
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Liberty Square - Magic Kingdom
Liberty Square was a part of the Magic Kingdom we often rushed through on our way to Fantasyland when the girls were younger. It is situated between Fantasyland and Frontierland and we spent a very pleasant afternoon there last year. This is a...
Viewed 1435 times since 1 September 2008.
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Tour of Undiscovered Future World - Epcot
Friends of ours took this tour last year and were very impressed. They learnt about the history and creation of Epcot and the legacy Walt Disney left for the Walt Disney World Resort. The tour, I think, is quite expensive, at about $50 plus y...
Viewed 1363 times since 1 September 2008.
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Mickeys Magical Milestones
The Magic Kingdom started this tour in 2004 to focus on the main Mouse and the Magic Kingdom. Mickeys Magical Milestones is two-hour tour for tour-goers age 10 and up to visit attractions and special locations that retrace Mickey Mouse's fabled caree...
Viewed 1331 times since 1 September 2008.
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Keys to the Kingdom Tour
This tour takes place each day and lasts between four-and-a-half hour to five-hours celebrating Disney Magic. It takes place daily at 8:30, 9:00 & 9:30am and starts at City Hall just inside the Magic Kingdom Main Entrance. The cost ...
Viewed 1618 times since 1 September 2008.
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Hidden Treasures at Epcot
This tour explores the art, architecture, costumes, customs, cultures and history of Epcot's World Showcase Countries and takes a look behind the scenes. It takes place on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9 a.m.and lasts three hours exploring the pa...
Viewed 1534 times since 1 September 2008.
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Dolphins in Depth - Epcot
We took this behind-the-scenes experience for guests a couple of years ago. It is great for anyone interested in learning more about the dolphins and research at The Living Seas, as well as those wanting to know more about dolphin counterparts in the...
Viewed 1483 times since 1 September 2008.
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Yuletide Fantasy Backstage Tour
My parents took this tour last December and said it was a really magical experience and a lovely start to Christmas. Guests are invited to take a behind the scenes look at that magical transformation in Disney's Yuletide Fantasy, a three-hour tour in...
Viewed 1367 times since 1 September 2008.
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Epcot Seas Aqua Tour
This tour that my daughter and I did last year is available to persons aged 8 and above although a participating adult must accompany people under 18. The tour takes place each day and takes two and a half hours and includes 30 minutes in the ...
Viewed 2056 times since 1 September 2008.
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Backstage Safari Tour - Animal Kingdom
This is a great way to find out what happens behind-the-scenes at Animal Kingdom. You'll get an insider's look at the innovative ways at how they are dealing with conservation, animal nutrition, medicine and animal care. There are visits to: backstag...
Viewed 1543 times since 1 September 2008.
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Main Street Magic Kingdom
Just walking into the Magic Kingdom is a treat, isn't it? The busy sounds of laughing people hustling and bustling, the bright bouquets of silvery mylar Mickey-head balloons, the luscious perfume of fresh-baked cookies and sticky-sweet candy wafting ...
Viewed 1342 times since 1 September 2008.
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Finding Nemo - The Musical
This show opened mid November 2006 and we were lucky enough to go and see it during our visit in December. The day we visited Animal Kingdom opened at 9. 00am and there were performances at 10am, 11:30am, 12:45pm, 3pm. My daughter liked it so...
Viewed 1294 times since 1 September 2008.
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France - Epcot
If you have been visiting the United Kingdom, cross over the English Channel (known in Epcot as the International Gateway Bridge) into France. This Showcase shows France from 1870-1910, a period known as La Belle Epoque, the beautiful time. <...
Viewed 1402 times since 1 September 2008.
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Big Thunder Mountain
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in Magic Kingdom is situated at the far end of Frontierland, just past Splash Mountain. It opened in Magic Kingdom 1980 and there are now similar rides in Tokyo and Paris. This is a great themed roller-co...
Viewed 1115 times since 1 September 2008.
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Tower of Terror
At the end of Sunset Boulevard is the rundown Hollywood Tower Hotel; home to one of the premiere thrills rides at Hollywood Studios, The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. At 199 feet tall it is the highest attraction at Disney. The Tower of Ter...
Viewed 1706 times since 1 September 2008.
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Beauty and the Beast
Beauty and Beast first started in Hollywood Studios in 1991 a couple of years after the parks initial opening. This is a must see for our family and whenever we visit Hollywood Studios we do not leave until we have been to see it. The show lasts appr...
Viewed 78 times since 1 September 2008.
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Splash Mountain
You will find Splash Mountain in Frontierland's west side, between Pecos Bill's cafe and the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. We sometimes use Pecos Bills as a meeting place with the rest of our party or a convenient place just to grab a burger or a sa...
Viewed 1248 times since 1 September 2008.
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Swiss Family Treehouse - Magic Kingdom
This is often an overlooked attraction but be sure not to miss the shipwrecked Swiss Family Robinson’ s home in the trees. The 60-foot-tall treehouse has been in Magic Kingdom since it opened in 1971. The giant tree is situated in Adventureland...
Viewed 1287 times since 1 September 2008.
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The Seas with Nemo and Friends - Epcot
The Seas with Nemo and Friends is located in a corner Future World, to the right of The Land. As you approach it you will see a garden area with eight sculptures of Finding Nemo characters including Nemo, Marlin, Dory, and Gil. Be sure to go ...
Viewed 1173 times since 1 September 2008.
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PLACES TO EAT AT ANIMAL KINGDOM
On our first visit to Animal Kingdom our initial reaction was that there were not that many places to eat. However we have since revised our opinion and I have given details in this guide. Flame Tree Barbeque I feel this is the best co...
Viewed 3028 times since 1 September 2008.
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BUZZ LIGHTYEAR
When we get to Tomorrowland we usually head straight for Buzz Lightyear as this is a Fastpass attraction. This is a great interactive ride that is fun for the whole family, my Mother loves it and the girls laugh at how competitive their Nanny becomes...
Viewed 1286 times since 1 September 2008.
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RAINY DAYS AT EPCOT
Occasionally during your holiday in Orlando you may experience a rainy day. If you stay indoors and you are at a hotel it can be hard to keep the children amused in a confined space. If you are staying at a villa it is far easier to entertain the chi...
Viewed 1236 times since 1 September 2008.
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BEAUTY AND THE BEAST - HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS
This is a real favourite with our family in fact I do not think my Mother has ever been to this park without seeing Beauty and the Beast! It is a mini-version of Disney’ s 30th animated classic, Beauty and the Beast, and it features the...
Viewed 1426 times since 1 September 2008.
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Epcot Flower and Wine Festival for Children
Friends of ours have just returned from the 15th Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival and were delighted with the fun their children had when they took them there. They initially realized there could be fun for the children when the...
Viewed 1044 times since 1 September 2008.
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Height and Other Restrictions at Magic Kingdom
When our girls were little I can remember many times returning to Disney with them eagerly anticipating that they were now tall enough to go on a ride only for them to be bitterly disappointed. Therefore I thought it might be helpful to list some of ...
Viewed 1148 times since 1 September 2008.
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Storytime with Belle
If you have a little one, be sure to go to Belle’ s Storytime. The very first time we went we just happened upon it while looking for a place to sit and rest in the shade. We were so pleased that we found it and we have been back many times sin...
Viewed 1285 times since 1 September 2008.
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Fantasyland and Fastpasses
On our recent visit to Magic Kingdom we spent the whole time in Fantasyland. This really is a very magical place when you have younger children – or even if you are a big kid yourself! You will find it situated behind Cinderella Castle, in th...
Viewed 1164 times since 1 September 2008.
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Backlot Tour - Hollywood Studios
If you pass under the archway located to the right of the Chinese Theater, take a left turn into Mickey Avenue, walk to the end of the street you will find Disney’ s Hollywood Studios Backlot Tour. The Tour takes about 25 minutes as Shuttles ta...
Viewed 1519 times since 1 September 2008.
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World Showcase for Children
As our girls started to out grow and therefore not want to make so many visits to Magic Kingdom we started taking them to Epcot a Park they always thought was boring when they were little. I will always remember the first day the younger girl...
Viewed 1152 times since 1 September 2008.
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Mickey’s Philarmagic
This is one of the newer shows at Magic Kingdom and takes place in the PhiharMagic Concert Hall in Fantasyland, This is just opposite “It’s a Small World” and the Small World attraction gets very busy as people exit PhilharMagic. This really ...
Viewed 1350 times since 1 September 2008.
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Its a Small World - Magic Kingdom
This was one of the original attractions when Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom opened in1971. Walt Disney had designed the attraction for the Pepsi-Cola Company to benefit UNICEF at the 1964-65 New York World’ s Fair and when the Fair cl...
Viewed 2074 times since 1 September 2008.
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First Time Visitor to Magic Kingdom
If you have never been to the Magic Kingdom before you really are in for a treat it is so very magical for all ages but particularly young children. If you want to be there at opening time plan to get to the car park about half an hour before this to...
Viewed 1319 times since 1 September 2008.
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Tips for Meeting and Greeting the Characters at Disney Parks
If you want to see specific characters within a given time frame check the Park Times Guides because these include character greeting times and locations. These Guides are provided at each of the 4 main parks (Animal Kingdom, Epcot, Magic Kingdom and...
Viewed 1679 times since 1 September 2008.
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Mama Melroses - Hollywood Studios
We decided, long before our holiday, to book the Fantasmic package and dine at Mama Melrose’s . We booked some months in advance direct with Disney. I believe this can be booked up to 180 days in advance. On the advice of friends we booked an...
Viewed 1315 times since 1 September 2008.
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Performers Around World Showcase
My parents earlier this year enjoying a leisurely break at our villa without the family decided one day they would go to Epcot and enjoy just strolling around and possibly also having a meal. They had always known about the various performers around ...
Viewed 993 times since 1 September 2008.
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Japan - Epcot
You will find the Japanese Pavilion between United States and Morocco in World Showcase. In designing the pavilion, Disney tried to create samples of traditional Japanese structures. You can see the bright red torii gate, which welcomes visit...
Viewed 1306 times since 1 September 2008.
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Its Tough to be A Bug
It’s Tough To Be a Bug is located inside the base of the Tree of Life, and is the story of Flik, Princess Atta and Hopper. This is a Fastpass attraction however you might not need to get a FastPass. A Cast Member told us that the way th...
Viewed 1447 times since 1 September 2008.
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Toy Story Mania
This ride opened as part of Disney’s “Year of a Million Dreams” in Orlando late May 2008 and also in California in mid June. We were lucky enough to ride on it when we went to our villa in Orlando at the beginning of June. We decided to go st...
Viewed 1324 times since 1 September 2008.
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MAHARAJAH JUNGLE TREK
We usually get our FastPass for Kali River Rapids and then go over to the Maharajah Jungle Trek whilst we wait for our ride time. The good thing about the Maharajah Jungle Trek is that you go at your own pace, and spend as little or as much t...
Viewed 1361 times since 1 September 2008.
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MICKEY’S NOT SO SCARY HALLOWEEN PARTY 2008
Universal Studios was the first Park to celebrate Halloween with their Halloween Horror Nights. This was marketed toward teenagers and young adults and the idea was to really scare their guests with monsters, vampires and other terrifying surprises. ...
Viewed 1116 times since 3 October 2008.
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Candlelight Processional at Epcot
This event takes place every year in the America Gardens Theatre in World Showcase at Epcot. This is an outdoor event and it is best to be prepared for the weather. It starts in late November and goes through December and although the weather can sti...
Viewed 1005 times since 3 January 2009.
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Tough to be a Bug
It’s Tough To Be a Bug is located inside the base of the Tree of Life, and is the story of Flik, Princess Atta and Hopper. This is a Fastpass attraction however you might not need to get a FastPass. A Cast Member told us that the way th...
Viewed 933 times since 3 January 2009.
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Things you might miss at Magic Kingdom
There is so much do and see in Magic Kingdom there are many thing that you may overlook. I am going to try to list a few things here for you to look out for. You have to be patient but if you want to prove to your little ones that Fairies rea...
Viewed 1044 times since 17 January 2009.
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Tusker House Lunch
Before we went to Animal Kingdom we had decided to have lunch at Tusker House as it had been recommended by some guests that had stayed at our villa. As we would normally recommend we made reservations before our visit. When we went the price...
Viewed 976 times since 17 January 2009.
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Not to be Overlooked at Animal Kingdom
The Theme Parks are so exciting with so much to see and do it is often easy to overlook some of the attractions they have to offer. One of the best, yet most overlooked probably because not all guests are aware of it , experiences at Disney&#...
Viewed 899 times since 17 January 2009.
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Attractions not to be overlooked at Future World
Although you may have been on “Living with the Land' in the Land pavilion several times you may not know there is a one-hour walking tour called ' Behind the Seeds' which will take you into the Greenhouse area you only get to pass by on t...
Viewed 1062 times since 18 January 2009.
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ToonTown Fair
Little ones love ToonTown but it can get very crowded with families by mid-day, so try to go to this area early or late in the day. When our girls were little we used to make sure they had a good afternoon nap before we took them as this part of the ...
Viewed 1030 times since 18 January 2009.
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Tips when visitng Animal Kingdom
We have visited Animal Kingdom several times over the years and are always discovering tips worth considering when you go there. We love the gorilla exhibit but it is very popular and gets very crowded at the observation window. Last time we ...
Viewed 1124 times since 18 January 2009.
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What you might need to know at Hollywood Studios
We have been going to the Disney Parks for many years now and have compiled some information that you may find useful. In Guest Relations on Hollywood Boulevard you will find the following: Lost children/lost-guest messages Upgr...
Viewed 948 times since 18 January 2009.
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Children at Animal Kingdom
There is so much for children to do at Animal Kingdom and I thought I would share some tips we have discovered since the park opened in 2001. We used to play Animal ABCs. As we went around the park to see the animals, rides and attractions, t...
Viewed 934 times since 25 January 2009.
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Attractions you might overlook at Epcot
Children sometimes think Epcot is going to be a bit boring after all the fantasy of the other Disney Parks. A great way of encouraging them to know more about the countries and enjoy Epcot is by getting them a World Showcase Passport. The passports a...
Viewed 939 times since 5 February 2009.
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Tour of Hollywood Studios
You enter Hollywood Studios through the turnstiles onto the main street, Hollywood Boulevard. Here you will find Streetsmosphere characters like 1930s detectives, starlets and gossip columnists who interact with the crowds around them. The very colou...
Viewed 981 times since 5 February 2009.
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Strollers at Disney
Although little ones love to run around at Disney many parents know that sooner or later they are likely to need a stroller for those under three years of age. There are several options for this the most obvious one being to rent one at the D...
Viewed 1049 times since 5 February 2009.
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Exploring Main Street
Every time I enter Main Street that tingling sense of magic comes back. The sounds of laughing people mingling together, the vast arrays of Mickey-head balloons combined with the smell of fresh-baked cookies and sweet candy greet you as you pass thro...
Viewed 1017 times since 14 February 2009.
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Mickeys Very Merry Christmas Party 2008
Although this event is advertised as 7pm until midnight you can actually gain entrance to the Magic Kingdom at 4pm and like many other guests we took advantage of this. Your Christmas Party ticket will get you into the park, no need to use a day on y...
Viewed 1127 times since 13 July 2009.
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Expedition Everest - Animal Kingdom
This is Animal Kingdoms newest ride and as such is very popular. It is a Fastpass attraction so I would suggest you go and get your Fastpass as soon as you enter the Park. There is a height restriction of 44 inches but some children over this...
Viewed 1117 times since 13 July 2009.
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Hidden Mickeys throughout the Parks
You could find hundreds of them, in the parks, in the attractions, in the resorts, there are even some on the roads leading into the parks Many of the millions of guests that visit the Walt Disney World Resort to see Mickey Mouse do not reali...
Viewed 635 times since 29 December 2009.
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Blizzard Beach (1)
The years that we stay for three weeks or more at our villa we usually buy Annual tickets for Blizzard Beach. We find that if you intend visiting the Park more than three times this is the most economical ticket to buy. Having this ticket als...
Viewed 324 times since 31 December 2009.
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Disneys Summer Nightastic 2010
Disney is always way ahead with its planning and this year 2010 is no exception. Starting in early June and continuing until mid August Disney “Summer Nightastic”plans several new evening features to make visiting the Parks even more exciting. Viewed 847 times since 10 June 2010.
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Discounts and Vouchers in Florida
These can be found in abundance and you can get some very good savings and
don’t have to just shop in the sales!
RESTAURANTS
You will find money off vouchers for most restaurants in the various free
publications you can...
Viewed 35710 times since 1 September 2008.
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Highway 192 West – from Celebration to the 27
RESTAURANTS Those of you familiar with the 192 will know that “Marker” signs appear at regular intervals along the way. If you get familiar with these you will find this guide easy to use. When we first visited this area of Ki...
Viewed 1877 times since 1 September 2008.
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4th July Fireworks In Orlando
We had an enquiry from the guests due to stay at our villa during the 4th July celebrations asking where we thought would be the best place to watch the fireworks. Never having been to Orlando at this time of year we emailed guests that h...
Viewed 2288 times since 1 September 2008.
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Celebration Town (1)
You may well pass Celebration on the 192 on your way to Disney but when you get time either take a detour to drive around the town or even go for a browse around and maybe take in a film or a meal. When you drive down the boulevard you will in...
Viewed 403 times since 1 September 2008.
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Pressed Pennies/Quarters at DownTown Disney
There are many souvenirs you can choose from at Walt Disney World, these range from the free ones, like guide maps, to very expensive limited edition figurines and sketches. The souvenirs that our girls started collecting when they were only ...
Viewed 1583 times since 1 September 2008.
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Things to Do at Thanksgiving
Disney is a great place to celebrate Thanksgiving and here are a few ideas. If you like to people watch as well as eating go to one of the hotels. You can spend many an hour before or after your meal relaxing and watching the world go by in a...
Viewed 1166 times since 3 January 2009.
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Celebrating Adult Birthdays in Orlando
When you visit the Disney Parks be sure to go to Guests Relations as you enter the park and tell them it is your birthday. You will be given a ' Today' s My Birthday' badge to wear. Throughout the day Cast Members (and other visit...
Viewed 1785 times since 17 January 2009.
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Fun at Night in Orlando
There is so much to do in Orlando at night time. One of our favourite nighttime activities is going to Magic Kingdom at night and enjoying the fireworks as well as some of the rides. You will find that even the rides take on a different feel than bei...
Viewed 966 times since 17 January 2009.
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Rolling Oaks Common
We were very pleased when this retail/restaurant development opened a couple of years ago as it is only a couple of miles from our villa.
It is situated on the 192 about two miles from the 27 and is near the entry/exit for the 429 Toll Ro...
Viewed 899 times since 7 January 2011.
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Night Time in Orlando
There is something so magical about Orlando and it can be even more magical (if that is possible) at night. Although our girls are in, or nearly in their teens now, we still go to Magic Kingdom at night. With the Castle all lit up everything ...
Viewed 1632 times since 1 September 2008.
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New Years Eve at the Theme Parks
Christmas is a magical time to be in Orlando whether you visit the Theme Parks on Christmas Day itself, stay by the pool at your villa and cook that extra special meal or dine out at one of the many fantastic restaurants. Remember for the latter alth...
Viewed 618 times since 22 December 2009.
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The Holyland Experience
If you want a break from the Theme Parks and some informative entertainment visit the Holyland Experience, which is open Monday – Saturday 10.00am – 5.00pm and is situated at: 4655 Vineland Road, Orlando – this is on the corner of Vineland Roa...
Viewed 1608 times since 1 September 2008.
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TITANIC EXHIBITION
After two holidays of nagging we decided to visit the Titanic exhibition as one of the girls had studied this at school and been recommended a visit to it should the opportunity occur. We decided to leave the younger members of the family at home wit...
Viewed 2599 times since 1 September 2008.
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Skull Kingdom
Skull Kingdom with its various show options provides entertainment for all ages and is located at: 5933 American Way (Opposite Wet’nWild) Orlando 407 353 1564 Although Skull Kingdom offers shows for every age the night show is ...
Viewed 1530 times since 1 September 2008.
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Water Parks and Mini Golf Tips
Do not let the rain keep you from the water parks! During one holiday the day in a very busy schedule we were to go to Typhoon Lagoon we awoke to cloudy skies and rain. We checked with the park and they said that the park was to be open. When we arri...
Viewed 1219 times since 1 September 2008.
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Christmas at Gaylord Palms
Friends of ours went to the Gaylord Palms at Christmas and were really impressed. Apparently the festivities are on there for about six weeks ending early in the New Year. When you enter you see this fantastic 54-foot Christmas tree and here ...
Viewed 1173 times since 17 January 2009.
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Horse Drawn Rides around Disney
At Fort Wilderness Resort you can take an old-fashioned, horse-drawn wagon ride which is a forty five minute scenic tour around Disney' s Fort Wilderness Resort. These rides depart at 7:00pm and 9:30pm nightly from the front of Pioneer Hall. ...
Viewed 608 times since 31 December 2009.
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Unusual Things To Do in Florida
We all love our visits to Florida with its great Theme and Water Parks the endless shopping and maybe even trips to either coast to soak up even more of the glorious sunshine. However in addition to all this there are other experiences you ma...
Viewed 1180 times since 4 January 2010.
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Suncoat Beach Trolley
During one of our stays at Treasure Island when it was a dull day and although warm was not sun bathing weather we decided to take the Suncoast Beach Trolley. This trolley bus provides service to all of the Gulf Beaches from Pass-A-Grill in S...
Viewed 628 times since 17 January 2010.
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My Favourite Things to do in Florida
There are many many things I like to do in Florida but thought I would try and share the best of these with you.
Breathing in the Florida air as you leave the airport terminal and cross the road to get your car – you really know you have ...
Viewed 383 times since 7 January 2011.
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Madeira Beach
If you would like a day at the beach within a reasonable driving distance from Orlando why not go to Madeira Beach. This beach is on Florida’s Gulf Coast which is our families’ favourite coast. The journey there will take just under two hours...
Viewed 768 times since 16 January 2010.
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Deep Sea Fishing
If you ever find yourself at or near Madeira Beach on the Gulf Coast and you and/or your family would like to do some deep sea fishing go to Hubbard’s Marina at Madeira Beach. Deep Sea Fishing Trips take place as follows: Spring and Su...
Viewed 774 times since 22 January 2010.
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Cruises at St Johns Pass
If you decide to have a break from the magical world of Walt Disney in Orlando try heading towards the St Petersburg or Clearwater areas on the Gulf Coast. These are less than a two hour drive from Orlando but seem a world away with their laid back a...
Viewed 966 times since 1 October 2010.
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Fort Myers (2)
We love the gulf Coast and have spent many days at the beaches there sometimes just traveling there for a day trip or even staying one or two nights at a motel as these are relatively cheap. Check the room contents out first because if you are a fami...
Viewed 438 times since 7 January 2011.
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Fun for all the Family at Daytona
If you visit the Daytona Beach area and do not want to sunbathe, do water or motor sports there is still plenty to do for all the family.
Everyone will enjoy a visit to Angelo and Phelps Chocolate Factory in Beach Street. In this factory ...
Viewed 473 times since 7 January 2011.
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Motorsports at Daytona Beach (2)
The Daytona Beach area is a must visit for all motorsport enthusiasts. There are plenty of race parks and speedways including the world famous Daytona International Speedway
which covers 480-acres and is open 10 a. m. - 4 p. m. daily. This is th...
Viewed 444 times since 12 January 2011.
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Tampa- Facts
As we travel to the Gulf Coast I never fail to marvel at Tampa’s large buildings that you can see from the Motorway and look as though they are made of cardboard
Tampa is situated on Florida' s west coast along the Gulf of Mexico. If you ...
Viewed 388 times since 11 February 2011.
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Our Stay at Treasure Island Part 4
If you walk to your right on the beach from the Thunderbird you get to St John’s Pass however there is also a nice walk if you turn left. As there is a public car park close by the beach gets busy with families ( although still loads of space) and th...
Viewed 3 times since 25 January 2012.
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Gatorland (1)
This was recently reviewed on ITV holiday show as the best value attraction!
It is inexpensive to enter and if you mention you are villa owner, they are very
good with discounts. This will, in reality, only take up h...
Viewed 263 times since 1 September 2008.
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My Favourite Gentler Rides
There are so many rides in Orlando’s Theme Parks and I thought I would just share some of my favourite gentler rides with you. These are particularly suitable for younger children and if my Mother is anything to go by also suitable for Grandparents! ...
Viewed 898 times since 3 January 2009.
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Aquatica - Our First Visit
Very excited we took our first trip to Aquatica in June. We love the Disney waterparks and as the ticket offer at the time was for fourteen days unlimited access to Seaworld and Aquatica, we visited around 3pm as the waterpark was open until 10 and l...
Viewed 866 times since 17 January 2009.
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Blue Horizons at Seaworld
Apparently after the success of Busch Gardens KaTonga the owners of Seaworld tried to duplicate that success with their latest show Blue Horizons and I think they have definitely succeeded. When you enter Seaworld if you go straight to the in...
Viewed 1054 times since 7 February 2009.
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Facts about Busch Garden
You will find that Busch Garden is an extraordinary African themed park. In one fantastic park it brings together a combination of rides, animals, and shows. The floorless dive coaster, SheiKra takes you 200 feet up, then you come 90 degrees straight...
Viewed 1201 times since 22 October 2009.
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A Day at Busch Gardens
If you like roller coasters, animals and getting wet this is the park for you. If you are traveling from Orlando be sure to get to the park early as there is so much to do. You can visit Jungala which is an exotic jungle and here you will fin...
Viewed 598 times since 8 November 2009.
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Stanleyville - Busch Gardens
Stanleyville at Busch Gardens is a great area to enjoy part of your day; in fact we tend to spend quite some time there. You will enjoy Stanley Falls which is an exciting log flume ride and was the first in a long line of adventure thrill rid...
Viewed 582 times since 22 December 2009.
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Morroco - Busch Gardens
The year we bought seven day Busch Garden tickets we went to Busch Gardens five times within the seven day period. This particular day we had a very early start from our villa as we intended to spend a few hours at Busch before heading off to...
Viewed 622 times since 29 December 2009.
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Timbukto - Busch Gardens
If you want your child to have their first roller coaster experience Cheetah Chase in the Timbuktu section of Busch Gardens is perfect. You will find this next to Pirates 4D. I am not very keen on coasters but go on this one and the whole family can ...
Viewed 577 times since 31 December 2009.
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Anna Maria Island, Florida
Whether you want to go for a day trip or to relax for a few days and and re-charge your batteries after the Theme Parks Anna Maria Island which is 20 miles southwest of Tampa is an ideal place to do this. Anna Maria is a narrow scrape of la...
Viewed 1367 times since 1 September 2008.
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Horse World Riding Stables
If you have children or even adults that enjoy horse riding do try and spend some time at Horse World Riding Stables. These can be found just south of the Disney World Resort area situated at 3705 Poinciana Blvd, Kissimmee that is 12 miles south of t...
Viewed 1586 times since 1 September 2008.
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Annual Events at Celebration
If you have never been to Celebration it really is a Must Do on any Disney holiday even if it is just to stroll around the shops or sit and relax in a rocking chair around the lake. It is situated on the 192 about 4 miles before you reach the 27. Viewed 578 times since 31 December 2009.
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San Sebastion Winery - St Augustine
We first saw San Sebastian Winery on a trolley bus tour on our first trip to StAugustine. From the outside it does not look very inspiring but friends of ours who had visited it the previous year urged us to try a visit to it. Unlike much of ...
Viewed 601 times since 9 January 2010.
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The Lightner Museum
No visit to St Augustine is complete without going to the Lightner Museum which is located in the historic downtown. It is 20 minutes from I-95, one hour from Jacksonville and Daytona Beach, and two hours from Disney World, Epcot Center and Cape Cana...
Viewed 672 times since 9 January 2010.
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Key West Narrated Trolley Bus Tour
For our visit to Key West a few years ago my Father did a lot of the planning. We stayed at Fort Lauderdale for a night before going on our journey down the Keys. Because it appeared to be a long drive we decided to stay overnight half way down the K...
Viewed 733 times since 9 January 2010.
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The Old Jail and St Augustine History Museum
If you get time to visit St Augustine, and I strongly recommend that you do, it is possible to go for a day with a very early start and a late return to Orlando. However to see everything and explore this beautiful city it is good if you can stay at ...
Viewed 811 times since 9 January 2010.
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Mallory Square - Key West
Several years ago we decided to go down the Florida Keys and stay at Key West for a couple of nights. There is a fabulous laid back atmosphere here and fun to be had in Mallory Square day or night, spring, summer, autumn or winter you will find there...
Viewed 823 times since 12 January 2010.
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St Augustine Lighthouse and Museum
We went to the Lighthouse and Museum on the recommendation of some other guests at our hotel when we visited St Augustine. They told us to allow at least an hour to tour the site and climb the tower, as the latter was one hundred and sixty feet high ...
Viewed 516 times since 11 October 2010.
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The Miami Bus Tour
Whenever wherever we are on holiday our favourite way of initially exploring any city is to do the bus tour to see what the city has to offer. We then either hop on hop off the bus tour to visit some of the places on the initial tour or plan the rema...
Viewed 517 times since 29 December 2010.
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Visit St Armands Circle Sarasota
We have on several occasions when we visited the Gulf Coast had a couple of nights stay in a small motel at Siesta Key in Sarasota. This really is a relaxing part of Sarasota away from the bustle of the town itself.
Whist we are there we ...
Viewed 497 times since 7 January 2011.
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Things to do at Clearwater (3)
If you visit Clearwater on the Gulf Coast you will be amazed at the amount of things to do. Clearwater is about an hour and a half drive from Orlando along the I4. When we initially go to new places we always call in first at the Visitor Information ...
Viewed 478 times since 7 January 2011.
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Key Largo
Key Largo is the island at the top of the Florida Keys and visitors often stop off here on their way to or from Key West. When we first visited there about twenty years ago there had been a lot of devastation in the surrounding area due to hurricanes...
Viewed 475 times since 15 January 2011.
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Enjoying Key West
You can travel to Key West by Road, Sea or Air and when you get there you will find it a city of fascinating contrasts. In fact after a few days there you may find yourself wanting to stay far away from the hassles of everyday life forever!
<...
Viewed 458 times since 3 February 2011.
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Vero Beach
The first year we went to Florida we stayed for one week at Palm Beach. Whilst there we went to the Vero Beach area for the day as it was not too far away. My parents were quite tired this day so they decided just to stay on the beach whilst we explo...
Viewed 450 times since 6 February 2011.
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Sanibel/Captiva Beaches
If you want a really relaxing time on the beach and a few days away form Orlando head to Sanibel and Captive Islands. Here you can enjoy 5 miles of unspoiled beaches, 22 miles of bike paths, good fishing, many types of birds and of course its famous ...
Viewed 439 times since 8 February 2011.
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Getting Ready to Go
You have booked your flights, found the villa of your dreams and now the rest
of the planning begins
You must have travel insurance. There are plenty of medical centres in
Orlando and if you unfortunately need to visit these plac...
Viewed 1304 times since 1 September 2008.
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Tips for Your Trip
Don’t forget to pack your address book – for all those postcards. My aunt always takes printed labels with her – now that’s organised! There are lots of places with internet access now so remember to make a note of any people you may want to...
Viewed 1600 times since 1 September 2008.
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Staying in Touch With Each Other at the Parks
When the whole family visits Disney, we all want to do different things so we often split up at a park or indeed go to different parks (park the car at one of the parks and then the others use the Disney transport which works really well). At the sta...
Viewed 1152 times since 1 September 2008.
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Things to carry with you at the Parks
As with many public venues these days you will have to pass through Security Checks as you enter the Parks. To make the security checks go faster, unzip and open all compartments of your bag while you are waiting in line to be checked. Grandad always...
Viewed 1365 times since 1 September 2008.
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WAYS TO STAY COOL IN FLORIDA
There are many ways to stay cool when you are on your Florida holiday and I list below some of them. WetnWild is the oldest of all Orlando water parks, this International Drive attraction has 30 acres of slides and flumes, surf and sun. Here ...
Viewed 1538 times since 1 September 2008.
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Tips When Visiting Water Parks
Most people travel to the water parks by car. Currently car parking is free at the Disney Water Parks but you have to pay to park at Aquatica, I think it is $10. If you do use Disney transport to go to Blizzard Beach and plan playing golf at ...
Viewed 1206 times since 11 April 2009.
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Tips for Taking Children
There is usually a fair amount of pre-planning to be done when you take small children to the parks. You will find it a lot easier going through security at the parks if you pack everything is in its own see-through bag. Visiting with little ...
Viewed 1328 times since 13 July 2009.
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New Rides in 2009
When we visited Seaworld last year we were in awe of the new ride being built called Manta. Not only did it dominate the skyline in the Park but also looked as though it was going to be immediately over the heads and very close to visitors as they wa...
Viewed 646 times since 8 November 2009.
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Fun for all Ages in Orlando
Ever Since Walt Disney World opened in 1971 Theme Parks have been the main attraction in Orlando, Florida. Even if you came to Orlando in the early days you will be amazed at the many changes now. When we made our first trip there were only t...
Viewed 623 times since 31 December 2009.
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First Time to Disney
You have probably finally given in to your children’s repeated request or feeling envious when you listen to your friend’s reports or when watching the numerous adverts on the TV and you have decided to go to Disney. First you have to decide ...
Viewed 775 times since 31 December 2009.
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Walmart
This is not Walmart as we know it in the UK – it is a huge mega-superstore that sells almost everything at great prices! And it is open 24hrs, so if you are jet-lagged and getting up at 4am, off you go shopping!! Ok, it’s not the best quali...
Viewed 5873 times since 1 September 2008.
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Bargains in Florida
You will find prices in the US incredible particularly with the current weak
dollar rate (July 04). This is the beauty of staying in a villa – you don’t
need to take too many clothes as there are washers and driers in all so don’t
take...
Viewed 1861 times since 1 September 2008.
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Ellenton Prime Shopping Outlets
If you are travelling to the Gulf Coast beaches or just fancy a break from Disney and a day out for some retail therapy Ellenton Prime Outlets is well worth a visit. The Outlets are situated just off I-75 at Exit 224 (old exit 43) between T...
Viewed 4287 times since 1 September 2008.
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Lake Buena Vista Outlet Mall
This Mall is not as often visited as Belz or Orlando Premium Outlets but we always find a half day to pop down there as there are lots of good bargains available. First stop is Swimart to get your discount booklet – you should see coupons f...
Viewed 3150 times since 1 September 2008.
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Build A Bear - Florida Mall
If, like me you have children who you need to bribed to stay shopping in the malls, then visit the Florida Mall and promise a visit to the Build a Bear Workshop. Make sure you keep this shop more or less to last as once they have visited here, you...
Viewed 4752 times since 1 September 2008.
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Pointe Orlando
If you feel like a leisurely afternoon where some members of your party can shop whilst others go the cinema and you all meet up afterwards for a meal Pointe Orlando is well worth a visit. This is located at 9101 International Drive, just a...
Viewed 1468 times since 1 September 2008.
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Festival Bay
Festival Bay is situated at the end of International Drive opposite Prime Outlets (formerly known as Belz Factory Outlets.) We often visit here as we can combine it with a visit to Prime Outlets for those of us trying to “shop until we drop” w...
Viewed 1434 times since 1 September 2008.
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Shopping at Downtown Disney
Definitely make sure you visit DownTown Disney, as the shops are fantastic and different. We always go and can spend hours just window-shopping, there is something for everyone. Art of Disney has a fantastic array of limited edition animation...
Viewed 1373 times since 1 September 2008.
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Retail Therapy in Orlando
You will find Orlando is great for shopping. We usually take one suitcase each with us with an extra case flat-packed inside. Do not worry if you do not have a spare case because they are very cheap to buy in Orlando. However do not forget the excess...
Viewed 530 times since 22 October 2009.
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Fresh Market Retail Store
The lady who owns the Management Company that looks after our villa first introduced us to Fresh Market several years ago. She invited us around for dinner and gave us the most amazing melba toast style biscuits topped with a delicious crab spread. F...
Viewed 769 times since 31 December 2009.
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Visit The Loop
We were delighted a few years ago when we heard that a new retail area was to be developed in the Kissimmee area on the John Young Parkway. Although we often went to the Florida Mall it could be quite a trek there in the busy holidays when there was ...
Viewed 487 times since 1 October 2010.
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Shopping at Walmart
Ever since our first visit to Florida over twenty years ago the whole family have been great fans of Wal-Mart. We usually manage to make our first visit to a store within the first few days of our holiday.
In the early years there was onl...
Viewed 711 times since 11 January 2011.
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Publix Supermarkets
One of the great advantages of staying at a villa is that you enjoy shopping for household goods and food at the local supermarkets. At home we tend to do a Supermarket dash at the weekends but whilst in Florida we have time to have a leisurely brows...
Viewed 627 times since 3 February 2011.
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Cagan Crossings Update 2011
It is now a few years since Cagan Crossings was developed and it has seen some changes and now looks much more established. It is located on the 27 near its junction with the 192 in Clermont.
If you approach it from the 192(you head north...
Viewed 123 times since 12 October 2011.
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St Augustine Trolley Bus
On our first trip to St Augustine we decided initially to go on the Trolley bus to see all the attractions in the area and decide where we wanted to visit over the next couple of days. There are two trolley bus tours in St Augustine and we we...
Viewed 1139 times since 7 January 2010.
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City Walk
Our evening usually City Walk, which is situated between Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, is a great place for an adult’s night out. We usually take the I4 and follow the Universal Studio signs. starts with a gentle stroll through t...
Viewed 2026 times since 1 September 2008.
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Universal Studios - New York (3)
If ever you have visited New York or perhaps even just dreamed of doing so you are sure to enjoy a few hours in New York at Universal. Here you will see replicas of The Palace Theatre, NY Library and other famous Big Apple landmarks. If you a...
Viewed 1321 times since 1 September 2008.
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Halloween Horror Night - Universal
If you are in Florida in late September or October and you do not mind being scared go to the Halloween Horror Nights at Universal. This is a separate ticket event and is not included in your park admission ticket or pass. No costumes, make-u...
Viewed 1366 times since 1 September 2008.
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PRODUCTION CENTRAL -UNIVERSAL STUDIOS
Universal Orlando Resort started with the Universal Studios Florida Theme Park in June 1990, known by many back in those days as " the little park that couldn’ t. " It did not have a good opening or good press and spent many years reg...
Viewed 1286 times since 1 September 2008.
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THE LOST CONTINENT -ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE
When you enter the Lost Continent you will realise it is not a very " theme park" like area as you travel through the three mystical sections. The first section, when entering from Seuss Landing, is the Lost City, followed by Sindba...
Viewed 1309 times since 1 September 2008.
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Twister - Universal Studios
This attraction is located on 57th Street, next to the BoneYard. There are no height restrictions for this show and although the show lasts approx 20 minutes the tornado scene takes only 3 minutes from beginning to end. If you are in ...
Viewed 1424 times since 1 September 2008.
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Toon Lagoon - IOA
We usually combine a visit to Islands of Adventure with a visit to Universal Studios and we find we often split up with older children and adults going on the scarier rides whilst the younger ones do the kiddy things with their Grandparents. ...
Viewed 1833 times since 1 September 2008.
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San Francisco - Universal
In the real world San Francisco and Amity are two separate areas located on opposite sides of USA. However in Universal Studios they are combined together in one large themed section, located between New York and World Expo. They are both on the Univ...
Viewed 1083 times since 1 September 2008.
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Flying Unicorn - IOA
As the Flying Unicorn, which is in the Lost Continent, is a little out of the way, be sure you look to your right just before crossing the bridge to enter Jurassic Park. It is located just pass Dueling Dragons. If you have a Universal Express...
Viewed 1274 times since 1 September 2008.
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The Incredible Hulk
This unmistakable green snaking shape can be seen for miles around Islands of Adventure. It is only when you enter Marvel Super Hero Island, to your left after you pass through Port of Entry the gateway to Islands of Adventure, that you realize its s...
Viewed 1251 times since 1 September 2008.
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Stormforce Islands of Adventure
Many of the rides at Marvel Super Hero Island are a little scary for younger children however you will find that Storm Force Accelatron is the most kid-friendly attraction on this island. Storm Force Accelatron is located between The Incredib...
Viewed 1141 times since 1 September 2008.
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Mummys Revenge
We had not been on this ride before but now my niece had reached 10 she was beginning to become a little more daring with her choice of rides. The park was due to close in half an hour and the wait was only 10mins (the wait time for this ride didn’t ...
Viewed 883 times since 3 January 2009.
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Jurassic Park IOA
It was not until I visited Islands of Adventure with my brother and niece that I really appreciated this park. This was in early December and the parks were quite due to most people rushing around getting ready for Christmas. On my previous visits th...
Viewed 1580 times since 9 April 2009.
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Islands of Adventure Information
For those that have not been to Islands of Adventure before I hope you will find this information useful. I feel you need a full day here because there is so much to see and do that you will be occupied non stop from park open to park close. ...
Viewed 876 times since 22 October 2009.
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Enjoy a Morning at Hollywood Studios
If you get up early enough it is possible to enjoy a morning at Hollywood Studios concluding with lunch at the Hollywood Brown Derby. However we always make reservations for lunch prior to our visit to the Studios as this is a popular restaurant. Viewed 687 times since 8 November 2009.
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Visit Universal for Half a Day
If you have visited Universal Studios before you will know that visitors to both Universal Orlando theme Parks park in the same parking garage, then walk through CityWalk on their way into the Parks. You need to leave at least half an hour (an hour i...
Viewed 752 times since 22 December 2009.
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Places for Snacks at Hollywood Studios
There always seems so much choice so I thought I would write about some of the places we have had a drink, snack or meal at Hollywood Studios. At the ABC Commissary you will find and Art Deco themed counter service restaurant with the Posters...
Viewed 825 times since 31 December 2009.
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Toddlers at Hollywood Studios
Hollywood Studios is popular with little ones as they get to meet friends from the popular ' Playhouse Disney' Channel. At ' Playhouse Disney Live on Stage' toddlers get to dance and sing along with Bear In The Big Blue House and his friends, plus Ro...
Viewed 719 times since 4 January 2010.
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Visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
We were all very excited when what seems like ages ago Universal announced it was going to include the attraction of Harry Potter at its Island of Adventure Theme Park. In fact it is only three years since Universal announced this addition of a “Them...
Viewed 638 times since 16 October 2010.
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Early Morning at Universal
As with the other parks we find it is always best to arrive as close to opening time as possible, this gives you the advantage on getting on the popular rides while the Parks are still relatively quiet.
You have a choice of how to plan th...
Viewed 110 times since 2 November 2011.
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Beach Safety
After a few days at the parks, why not take a trip out to Cocoa Beach or the
St Pete’s area which are only about an hours drive away. When we can we spend
about 3 days at the beach and then go back to the villa, recharges our batteries
and ...
Viewed 1456 times since 1 September 2008.
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Sun Safety
You have been dreaming about the holiday for months, you have been at the
parks for days so a few days at the beach is a great idea for a chance to relax
but remember the sun in Florida is far more powerful than here in the UK so
follow some...
Viewed 1439 times since 1 September 2008.
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Tip for Florida with Kids
Having travelled with kids, here are just a few tips we found made our holiday that little more relaxing. Before you go, buy some Disney Dollars from the Disney Stores and keep giving them as their pocket money – this way they have some mon...
Viewed 1770 times since 1 September 2008.
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Starting Your Disney Holiday with Baby/Toddler
The whole family has probably been very excited for weeks and cannot wait to start their holiday proper so I am writing this just to highlight procedures when you arrive in Florida. These can be a little stressful because you will have had a long jou...
Viewed 629 times since 8 November 2009.
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International Drive
When we first visited International Drive in the late 80s we thought it was just a road full of hotels/motels, how wrong we were. It is impossible to list the many many things there are to do when you visit IDrive (as it is known locally) but...
Viewed 930 times since 1 October 2010.
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Money Saving Tips for Planning your Vacation
When we first visited Orlando we had a package holiday that included a charter flight and stay at a hotel. I must admit for first time visitors this is a great way initially of getting to know Florida and Disney. However after this until we bought ou...
Viewed 657 times since 11 January 2011.
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Last Day of the Holidays (3)
Many visitors from the United Kingdom to Orlando have an early/late evening flight home. As we often travel with Virgin Atlantic we usually go to Downtown Disney and at the Virgin check in we check in our baggage and receive our boarding cards. The c...
Viewed 417 times since 3 February 2011.
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What to Pack in your Hand Luggage
We are off to our villa shortly and my mind has had to focus on what and where to pack for the holidays.
First priority has to be what to put in hand luggage. Some airlines are getting quite tough on the weight limit of hand luggage we ar...
Viewed 633 times since 18 May 2011.
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Packing for your Holiday
I must admit that when you stay at a villa it is so much easier to pack for your holiday. All villas will be equipped with a washing machine, tumble drier ironing board and iron so there is no need to take loads of clothes. However my daughter does n...
Viewed 250 times since 2 November 2011.
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Winter Summerland Miniature Golf – Blizzard Beach
Our family love mini-golf and have visited most of the “courses” in Orlando but our favourite is Winter Summerland. It is located next door to Blizzard Beach, so you can park for free! It is not too expensive at about $10 for adults and a little l...
Viewed 1287 times since 1 September 2008.
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Animal Kingdom Dinoland: Chester and Hester's
There are gift shops everywhere you look at Walt Disney World and most families buy something each time they visit a park – Disney mania just takes over and you get carried away – just keep asking yourself “how can I get this huge cuddly toy home”...
Viewed 1619 times since 1 September 2008.
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Disney's Boardwalk
If you fancy a day off from the Theme Parks, an evening stroll, or would like to dine somewhere different go to Disney's Boardwalk. This is located off Buena Vista Drive near Epcot and the Swan and Dolphin Hotels: Disney's Boardwalk 210...
Viewed 2073 times since 1 September 2008.
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Disney Photo Pass
This is a relatively new feature of Disney's but we found the service wonderful. It is a process of being able to view photos taken by professional Disney staff on-line when you get home. Disney always has lots of Cast Members milling aro...
Viewed 2241 times since 1 September 2008.
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A Guide to Character Meals
If you have children while you are at Walt Disney World you must try fit in a character meal. We had not experienced these until a few years ago and now we ensure we book one of them on each visit. It is a fantastic way to meet the characters, the...
Viewed 1467 times since 1 September 2008.
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Typhoon Lagoon's Surf School
Surf Schools are now available at Typhoon Lagoon for guests aged 8 or over. They do stipulate that you must be a strong swimmer and you do have to sign a waiver but don’t let that put you off. The cost is $135 per person (and this does not inc...
Viewed 1353 times since 1 September 2008.
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Rainy Days at Disney
Many people have found out that one of the best ways to deal with rain at Disney is to try to ignore it. Just put on your poncho and go, that is of course you have a poncho with you! Large stores like Wal-Mart always have these in stock at very reaso...
Viewed 1259 times since 1 September 2008.
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Disney Pirate and Princess Party
Tickets are now on sale for this new Disney Party, which will take place on 13 nights from January 22nd to March 8, 2007. Friends of ours have just booked as their daughter has her 6th birthday on one of the dates. This sounds great fun being ...
Viewed 1302 times since 1 September 2008.
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Lunch with a Disney Imagineer
Last December my Father treated my Mother to a surprise lunch with a Disney Imagineer. Apparently you can make reservations for this lunch 60 days in advance and it takes place on Mondays Wednesdays and Fridays at 11.30am. Adults pay approx $65 and c...
Viewed 1377 times since 1 September 2008.
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Addicted to Disney Pin Trading
During our third trip to Walt Disney World the girls each bought two souvenir pins, one from Magic Kingdom and one from Epcot, as reminders of our holiday. They were inexpensive and easy to pack to bring home. I also, unbeknown to them, bought them o...
Viewed 1990 times since 1 September 2008.
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Rainy Days at Downtown Disney
Although it is unusual there can be rainy days at Disney but they need not spoil your enjoyment. If rain is forecast we tend to plan ahead and initially enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the villa rather than the usual dash to get to the Parks as early ...
Viewed 1944 times since 1 September 2008.
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Mickey's ToonTown Fair
This has got to be the most magical place for children n Magic Kingdom. When the girls were little this was always the first place they wanted to visit, and sometimes the last as well! We usually get there on the Walt Disney World Railroad wh...
Viewed 1304 times since 1 September 2008.
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WaltDisneyWorld Railroad
Apparently Walt Disney developed a love of trains at an early age. When he was a young adult, he built a half-mile scale model railway in his backyard that he called the "Carolwood Pacific Railroad. " When he began designing Disneyland, a railroad wa...
Viewed 1254 times since 1 September 2008.
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Fantasia Mini Golf
You may well have seen these courses as you travel home from the parks. Although we always put them on our “must do” list for our next visit it was several visits after our initial sighting that we actually visited them. Walt Disney World op...
Viewed 1747 times since 1 September 2008.
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Best Time to Go to Disney
Many visitors to Florida can only go in the school holidays and when this happens it is best to plan well ahead. Flights from Europe are often cheaper when booked long in advance and some villas offer discounted rentals for early bookings. If...
Viewed 7225 times since 1 September 2008.
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Daytime Entertainment on the Boardwalk
For several years we used to pass the Boardwalk always saying next visit we would make time to go there. We really did not realise just how much there was to do whether you visited at day or night. There are lots of activities whether you go ...
Viewed 1578 times since 1 September 2008.
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Albatross Treasure Cruise
We first noticed this cruise advertised one evening when we went for a walk around the Boardwalk. It is for children four to ten years old. I was very apprehensive about letting the girls go on it but I need not have been as they were in very safe ha...
Viewed 1451 times since 1 September 2008.
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Best Places to Watch the Fireworks at MK
Over the years we have found many great places to watch the Fireworks from in Magic Kingdom and I would like to share them with you. Main Street One of our favourite places is up in the train station overlooking Main Street. The...
Viewed 1569 times since 1 September 2008.
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Disney's Photopass
When we first started going to Disney in the 1990s Disney photographers were easy to spot and eager to take your photo as you entered the theme park. Sometimes they were so eager it was irritating. At that time once they took your photograph, you wer...
Viewed 2139 times since 1 September 2008.
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Tips When You Go To Character Meals
When we first started going to Disney there were just a few Character Meals to choose from. Now you have lots of choices and can see the characters at Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner. However to avoid disappointing the children it is always better...
Viewed 1348 times since 1 September 2008.
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FISHING EXCURSIONS AT WALT DISNEY WORLD
We are not really a fishing family but were fascinated when a family friend told us what was on offer at Walt Disney World. Although the Fishing Excursions appear quite expensive my friend assures me that if there is a family interest in fish...
Viewed 1826 times since 1 September 2008.
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Backstage Magic
This is a great backstage tour for Disney fans. It lasts for seven hours and I believe every tour is slightly different. On ours we traveled to Epcot, Hollywood Studios costume shop, general costume shop, floral department, baskets department, MK par...
Viewed 1491 times since 1 September 2008.
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Tips for enjoying your Disney Holiday
Try to have a tentative plan of where you want to go and what to see each day. Schedule pool/rest time during the day. Be sure to include a late-start morning after a late night out. You may even want to stay at your villa on alternate days. The chil...
Viewed 1174 times since 1 September 2008.
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Epcot Food and Wine
My parents went to the Food and Wine Festival for the first time last year and thoroughly enjoyed it. They were amazed at the number of free tastings and seminars throughout the Festival and said they could not possibly attend all of the offerings th...
Viewed 1117 times since 26 September 2008.
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Luggage for Disney
The many months of waiting are over and finally at long last the time to depart is nearly here and it is time to pack for our holiday to Disney. The weigh limit on our luggage on the way over is usually not a problem as each family member usu...
Viewed 1097 times since 26 September 2008.
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Christmas Events at Disney
Disney is always so magical but never more so than at Christmas. Each of the main theme parks have their own way of decorating and celebrating. Most of their events start mid November and go on for about six weeks. EPCOT Be sure...
Viewed 986 times since 3 January 2009.
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Disney Speciality Cruises
You can go on a specialty cruise at various locations around Disney. These may be booked up to 90 days in advance. There is a 24-hour cancellation policy and a credit card is required to book them. The boats can usually accommodate up to 12 guests (1...
Viewed 1182 times since 18 January 2009.
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Celebrate with Disney in 2009
My Mother is really excited as everyone who visits a Walt Disney World Resort or Disneyland Resort theme park on their birthday in 2009 can get a free ticket to a Park of their choice. She and my Father are going in 2009 and will be there for her bir...
Viewed 963 times since 18 January 2009.
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Afternoon Tea at the Garden Lounge
My Mother and I have now made two visits to have Afternoon Tea in the Garden View Lounge in the Grand Floridian Hotel. The first time we went Granddad had taken the girls for the day to Typhoon Lagoon. On the spur of the moment we decided to ...
Viewed 1016 times since 18 January 2009.
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Design - A - Disney Tee Shirt
If it is a rainy day, a day when we want a rest from the parks or just an evening when we fancy a leisurely stroll we often head for Downtown Disney. Previously we have visited the “Create Your Own Ear Hat” shop. In here you get to select fro...
Viewed 1485 times since 5 February 2009.
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Tips when visiting Downtown Disney
The car parks at Downtown Disney are vast so do make sure you can remember where you parked your car! After several hours shopping and maybe even having a meal it is easy to forget – a good tip is to put your location in your mobile phone. S...
Viewed 1170 times since 13 July 2009.
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Disney Souvenirs
There are so many things you can collect to remind you of the magic when you are on holiday at Disney and I will try and list some of them here. Firstly most holiday makers send postcards home. Rather than buy individual ones you can buy a pa...
Viewed 1321 times since 13 July 2009.
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Epcot Food and Wine 2009
EPCOT FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL 2009 My parents absolutely love this event and if ever they are over at the villa when it takes place they always visit it at least once. This seven week Festival has fabulous food from countries on 6 cont...
Viewed 500 times since 5 October 2009.
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Christmas in Early December
If you want to experience the magic of Christmas in Orlando at your leisure and without the crowds early December is a great time to go. At this time of year the weather is usually lovely and the air fares are at their cheapest. Once about 18th Decem...
Viewed 556 times since 13 October 2009.
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Fireworks Dessert Party
Disney introduced this new attraction in the summer of 2009 originally for it to run through the summer school holidays but it must have been successful because they have now extended it until the end of the December 2009. Guests at our villa during ...
Viewed 761 times since 22 October 2009.
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Typoon Lagoon 2009
Typhoon Lagoon has undergone a refurbishment and reopened in time for Easter. If you have not been to Typhoon Lagoon you will find it based around Mount Mayday, which at its base boasts a 2. 75 million gallon wave pool. On top of its peak, is...
Viewed 625 times since 22 October 2009.
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Interesting Disney Facts
Here are some interesting Disney facts that we have found out over the years that we have been visiting Orlando. MAGIC KINGDOM When you walk through the Magic Kingdom you are actually walking on the 2nd floor, the first floor is...
Viewed 744 times since 22 October 2009.
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Getting the Most Out Of Your Fastpass
Fastpasses are great if you use them well but you really do need to put some thought into when and where you will use them before you get to the Parks. Disney first introduced FastPass in 1999 and it was welcomed as a brilliant innovation to ...
Viewed 702 times since 22 October 2009.
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An Evening at Downtown Disney
Having had recommendations from guests who had stayed at our villa we decided to spend a few hours at Downtown Disney to go on the new Characters of Flight balloon ride and then have a meal. It has been variously advertised as a bird’s eye vi...
Viewed 754 times since 8 November 2009.
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La Nouba - New Act
We recently heard that La Nouba added a new act in February 2010. This is the world-renowned juggler Anthony Gatto and he will be a permanent addition to the ninety minute show. Apparently in the nine-minute act, Gatto juggles balls, hoops and clubs ...
Viewed 577 times since 19 October 2010.
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Hall of Presidents Re-opens
If this is your first visit to the Hall of Presidents since it re-opened mid 2009 the first thing you will notice is that it now has the title –“The Hall of Presidents – A Celebration of Liberty’s Leaders. ” As you enter beneath the porch the...
Viewed 567 times since 5 October 2009.
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Mickeys Not So Scary Halloween Party 2009
Friends of ours are staying at our villa in mid October and plan on taking their three young children to this party. To save them some time going through various websites I have compiled the information in this guide for them. The party takes...
Viewed 601 times since 13 October 2009.
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Lunch at Liberty Tree Tavern
This restaurant no longer serves Character Meals and with this in my mind my parents and I decided to have lunch here. This restaurant is situated in Liberty Square and the colonial furnishings and artifacts provide a comfortable setting whil...
Viewed 592 times since 22 October 2009.
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Magic Kingdom in Half a Day
Magic Kingdom was the first theme park at Walt Disney World, opening in 1971. Although it is open 365 days a year obviously it gets very busy during school holidays Christmas and Easter. I believe Magic Kingdom can sometimes close the gates early on ...
Viewed 926 times since 22 October 2009.
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Short Breaks at Magic Kingdom
There is so much to see and do in Magic Kingdom that is nice to take short breaks and have a drink or snack and relax for a few minutes. The Main Street Baker is well known for its fresh baked goods and you can also get sandwiches and fresh f...
Viewed 750 times since 31 December 2009.
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Adventureland In Magic Kingdom
Adventureland is a lovely part of the Magic Kingdom Park that we never seemed to visit when the girls were young. However although now twelve years old one of our girls likes to visit every nook and cranny of Magic Kingdom and when we were last at ou...
Viewed 568 times since 31 December 2009.
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Mickeys Not So Scary Halloween Party 2010
If you are in Orlando between now and November 1st and have young children or even young at heart adults with you this party is one I highly recommend. My parents even go to it when they go to the villa on their own! The dates for this year’s...
Viewed 921 times since 14 September 2010.
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Mickeys Very Merry Christmas Party 2010
If you have never been to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom it is a MUST DO. My parents who have been to many in the past are at the villa early December on their own but they still plan to go! The dates for this year’s par...
Viewed 419 times since 18 November 2010.
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Tips for visiting Epcot
If you visit Epcot prior to opening you will find an assortment of the Disney Characters outside and they put on a little show to officially open the park. Once the park is open the characters are available to sign autographs and in Epcot this is usu...
Viewed 1159 times since 22 October 2009.
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Starting the day at Epcot with children
We have many different ways to start our day with the girls at Epcot so I thought I would just share a few of them with you. If we have not had time to sit down together and plan our day before we get to the Park we head straight to Fountainv...
Viewed 565 times since 22 December 2009.
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A Morning At Epcot
As with all the Theme Parks if you traveling without children try to visit on a school day as the Parks are noticeably less crowded. If you need to visit during a school holidays, try to visit Epcot earlier in the week, as most visitors go to Magic K...
Viewed 691 times since 31 December 2009.
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Sum of All Thrills - Epcot
Sum of All Thrills was opened in Epcot’s Innoventions East in 2009. It is situated near Electric Umbrella. Disney are expecting this to attract large crowds and long queues are expected for this quite innovative ride. This attraction lets vis...
Viewed 673 times since 31 December 2009.
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Coral Reef Restaurant - Epcot
The Coral Reef restaurant is a lovely place to have lunch or dinner when you visit Epcot. To get to the Coral Reef you exit The Living Seas and walk to the far right of the pavilion. The pavilion features a unique dining experience and you can dine i...
Viewed 771 times since 31 December 2009.
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Changes at Epcot 2010
The year 2010 will see some new store and restaurant openings at Epcot. Their restaurant expansion plans will mean that the amount of dining seats in Epcot will increase by about twenty per cant which will be good news for guests who have failed to g...
Viewed 974 times since 24 August 2010.
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Animal Kingdom In a Morning
Disney' s Animal Kingdom is the newest of the four Walt Disney World theme parks and like the others it is open every day of the year although opening and closing times vary. I find Animal Kingdom usually closes earlier than the other Disney Parks bu...
Viewed 929 times since 13 October 2009.
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Grand Gathering Safari
Some American friends of ours who often stay at a Walt Disney Resort Hotel during their short trips to Orlando invited us to their Grand Gathering Safari and Dinner at the Animal Kingdom. There were 10 adults and two children in our party. I ...
Viewed 653 times since 8 November 2009.
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Pangani Forest Exploration Trail
It is easy to overlook the Pangani Forest Exploration Trail which is located near the exit of Kilimanjaro Safari. ' Pangani' is Swahili for ' place of enchantment' and when you visit here you will see that it is aptly named. Here visitors get...
Viewed 629 times since 1 January 2010.
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Enjoying Animal Kingdom Part 1
We love this park and always have a wonderful day out although the first time we went we did not really find it enjoyable so were wary about going back.
However it was Easter Sunday we wanted to go to a Park but we had been warned that on...
Viewed 513 times since 19 March 2011.
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Enjoying Animal Kingdom Part 2
We had already had a lovely few hours on our visit to Animal Kingdom on Easter Sunday having been to Expedition Everest had our photos taken with the characters at Camp Minnie Mickey seen Lion King and then been on the Kilimanjaro Safari.
Viewed 481 times since 19 March 2011.
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Enjoying Animal Kingdom Part 3
We were having a lovely day at Animal Kingdom having been to the shows and rides as well as having our photo taken with Mickey and after all that stopping for lunch.
We then decided it was time for a rest, a drink and to watch the Parade....
Viewed 362 times since 19 March 2011.
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First Evening in Florida
After months of planning and anticipation we finally arrive at Orlando International Airport on the way to our villa.
Everyone is very impatient to get through immigration but unfortunately this is a process that never seems very quick. O...
Viewed 352 times since 4 February 2011.
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Seaworld in 4 Hours
We find that this is usually one of the less crowded Parks and if you are pushed for time and organize your day it is possible to visit Seaworld and enjoy all the attractions you want to in 4 hours. The rest of the day is then yours to do oth...
Viewed 674 times since 22 October 2009.
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Enjoying Seaworld
Seaworld Orlando is located at the intersection of Interstate 4 and FL 528 (the Bee Line Expressway) and is just 10 minutes south of downtown Orlando and 15 minutes from Orlando International Airport. It is open all year-round from 9 a. m. to 7:00 p....
Viewed 511 times since 7 January 2011.
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Seaworld at Christmas
We often visit our villa in Orlando in early December. To visit at this time of year has many advantages for example air fares are usually much cheaper so sometimes it is possible to get an upgraded seat for nearly the same price that you pay for an ...
Viewed 435 times since 15 January 2011.
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Garden of Discovery - Seaworld
On our visit to our villa last March we encountered unseasonably hot weather for that time of year. Whilst we were very happy to enjoy it by our final day my parents were feeling the strain of the hot weather. We always check our luggage in at Virgin...
Viewed 251 times since 13 July 2011.
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Discovery Cove - Swim With Dolphins
As Discovery Cove is very popular and there is limited capacity you need to plan and book your day well in advance. I know you can make your booking at least six months in advance but think you may be able to book even earlier than this. This is espe...
Viewed 923 times since 22 December 2009.
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Orange Lake Golf Courses
Our family has never been great golfers but many guests who have stayed at our villa have spoken enthusiastically about the courses at Orange Lake. As you travel along the 192 towards the 27 you will see Orange Lake Golf courses on your right...
Viewed 595 times since 6 January 2010.
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Typhoon Lagoon Refurbished part 6
It was the afternoon of our visit to the newly refurbished Typhoon Lagoon and having had already had lunch and a ride on Gang Plank Falls my parents had gone for a drink whilst the rest of us decided to go on some more of the rides.
Altho...
Viewed 114 times since 9 October 2011.
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