A days sightseeing in Tarpon Springs
If you fancy a little flavour of Greece during your Florida holiday then head off to Tarpon Springs. Greek people were brought to Tarpon Springs to dive for sponges in the heyday of that industry. Today, Tarpon Springs has more Greek/ American reside...
Viewed 889 times since 8 July 2010.
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A Holiday in Orlando
A holiday in Orlando is not just about the theme parks, but they are great! The whole atmosphere of excitement that you see in the faces of the children about to meet Mickey Mouse for the very first time is unbelievable. The whole thing is just so sp...
Viewed 354 times since 26 August 2011.
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A peaceful afternoon in Celebration
Celebration has to be one of my most favourite places to visit when I am staying at the villa. Every time we go to Florida, Celebration calls to me: I love to walk down Market Street, from the Post Office, towards the lake, browsing in the shop windo...
Viewed 1042 times since 15 February 2010.
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A Review Of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
As a very dedicated but somewhat disillusioned Potterphile, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter had a lot to live up to in my mind.
When I think of Harry Potter, I remember what I fell in love with when I first began the series. Hogwarts an...
Viewed 947 times since 4 April 2011.
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A stroll around Celebrations lakes and residences. Part 1
If you fancy some time away from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks, then why not spend a couple of hours strolling around the lakes and the residential area of Celebration. Leave your car in one of the free car parks or in one of the m...
Viewed 860 times since 18 June 2010.
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A stroll around Celebrations lakes and residences. Part 2
When you have almost completed three quarters of the lake’s circuit take the bridge to your left and head away from the lake, cutting through the conservation area. You will emerge at Lake Evalyn where you can stop to admire the pretty houses on its ...
Viewed 619 times since 18 June 2010.
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A stroll around Celebrations lakes and residences. Part 3
As you reach the end of the path, the lake will disappear and after crossing the bridge you will find yourself in the heart of residential Celebration. Turn right and pass in front of half a dozen white clapboard houses with their fully furni...
Viewed 746 times since 18 June 2010.
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A visit to Celebration
Something that we do on most of our visits to the Disney area is to spend a half day visiting the Disney Celebration community. If you are in the general area of the Disney Main Entrance on Route 192 then you are only a short distance away from this ...
Viewed 508 times since 1 September 2008.
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A Visit To Discovery Cove
Discovery Cove is owned by the same people that own Busch Gardens and Seaworld, so you know it is going to be really good. Having a limit how many the park can accept really makes it feel very exclusive and you really do feel like you are being well ...
Viewed 242 times since 9 November 2011.
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Affordable Dining
Longhorns Steakhouse We were introduced to Longhorns Steakhouse on our first visit to Florida several years ago and we now make sure that we pay at least one visit to this excellent restaurant each time we visit our villa. If you like ...
Viewed 984 times since 13 October 2010.
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After Ice
If you have been to visit ICE you might as well make the most of your visit and enjoy everything else that is on offer on the site. We would strongly recommend that you combine your visit with a meal at the Villa de Flora. Our excuse is that you then...
Viewed 1388 times since 1 September 2008.
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Afternoon Tea at the Grand Floridian (1)
On their return from Florida our friends had enthused about the Garden View Lounge at Disney’s Grand Floridian Hotel, and so, it was put on our wish list of things to do next time we were on holiday in the Orlando area. Well, that trip took p...
Viewed 1677 times since 1 September 2008.
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Airboats at Boggy Creek
Florida is well known for the Everglades, an area which fascinates a lot of visitors. However, if you are staying in the Disney area, a trip to the Everglades will eat a chunk of your holiday. The next best thing is to sample an air boat ride at Bogg...
Viewed 1472 times since 1 September 2008.
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All about Cinderella’s Castle
One of the most renowned images across the world is the picture of Cinderella’s castle. This is an image that is now completely synonymous with the World of Disney and is used extensively as part of their brand. The significance of this image descend...
Viewed 1831 times since 1 September 2008.
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All about Universal’s Islands of Adventure Florida
Universal’s Islands of Adventure opened in May 1999 as part of a large expansion to the existing Studios. This was part of a large plan to turn the whole facility into a resort complex with hotels, restaurants and shops. The theme of the park is port...
Viewed 1153 times since 1 January 2009.
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All about Universal Studios Florida
Universal Studios in Florida started life in June 1990 inspired by its fellow location in California, namely Universal Studios Hollywood. From the very beginning it was decided that the facility take on the role of both theme park and studio ‘all in ...
Viewed 1407 times since 1 January 2009.
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Alternatives to theme parks
As villa owners who travel to Florida every year, it is often a challenge to find something new to do. However, Orlando never disappoints and here are a few ideas you may like to try.
Hot air balloon ride.
There is nothing quite...
Viewed 144 times since 25 December 2011.
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An Introduction to the Florida Keys
The Florida Keys conjure up visions of an island paradise with swaying palm trees and dazzling sunsets, far removed from the strains and stresses of every day living. Here, you would be correct in assuming, is a jewel of a place set in just about the...
Viewed 572 times since 29 September 2010.
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Animal Kingdom - Asia
Asia has to be my favourite area within Disney’s Animal Kingdom, especially now they have opened Expedition Everest. You are transported to a mythical kingdom, Anandapur, which translates as ‘Place of all Delights’. The setting is based on various cu...
Viewed 1500 times since 1 September 2008.
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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 1075 times since 13 October 2009.
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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 1637 times since 1 September 2008.
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Animal Kingdom-Kilimanjaro Safari
I always enjoy visiting Disney’s Animal Kingdom and one of my favourite features of the park is the Africa section and the Kilimanjaro Safari in particular. This year we only visited the park for half a day but our first stop was the safari. ...
Viewed 1776 times since 1 September 2008.
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Animal Kingdom with Toddlers
Of the four Walt Disney World theme parks, Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom are best suited for small children. There are several attractions which would not be recommended for the little ones, but the majority of Animal Kingdom can be enjoyed by all...
Viewed 1185 times since 20 August 2009.
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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 217 times since 2 November 2011.
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Arabian Nights – a dinner show
Colourful, beautiful costumes, handsome horses, enjoyable family entertainment, a pleasurable evening – just a few words to describe our visit to Arabian Nights. As frequent visitors to Orlando I wanted to take my family for an evening out whi...
Viewed 1431 times since 1 September 2008.
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Arabian Nights VIPs
For someone who enjoys good food and wine and is not particularly keen on horses, this show is not one I have rushed to see. However this time we were travelling with two 14 year old girls who are mad on horses, so we were beaten into submission! Viewed 1487 times since 1 September 2008.
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Artist Point Restaurant
If you want to discover one of the best kept secrets in Disney’s culinary array then take a trip to The Wilderness Lodge. It is modelled on the historic Old Faithful Lodge in Yellowstone National Park and is worth a visit in its own right. However ne...
Viewed 1656 times since 1 September 2008.
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AstroVan - NASA’s Famous Silver Motorhome
After watching many Apollo and Shuttle launches on the TV and internet, and many visits to Kenny Space Centre I became interested in the AstroVan, the vehicle you see transporting the astronauts to the launch pad in. Silver in colour, I thoug...
Viewed 1953 times since 5 October 2008.
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Bahama Breeze at Rolling Oaks Common
Bahama Breeze is the most recently opened Rolling Oaks restaurant and although there are several other branches around the Orlando area we had not eaten at Bahama Breeze until our last trip. Here you will find steak, chicken and fish dishes as well a...
Viewed 673 times since 15 August 2011.
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Balloon Ride over Orlando
I must admit, I was quite apprehensive about flying in a hot air balloon, with no parachute and nothing between the balloon and land but a big drop! It took a lot of convincing from my family that I’d enjoy the ride and had nothing to worry about. Viewed 2128 times since 1 September 2008.
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HOT AIR BALLOON RIDES IN FLORIDA
Have you ever wanted to feel like a bird gently gliding through the skies? It’s an amazing feeling words cannot express. Today more and more people take part in a hot air balloon rides, looking down on nature’s beauty and Florida’s many lakes and par...
Viewed 1649 times since 1 September 2008.
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Bass Pro Shops – Outdoor World
If you are looking for somewhere a little bit different to visit during your Orlando holiday why not head to the Bass Pro Shop/Outdoor World at the junction of International Drive and Oakridge Road (I. Ride trolley stop 2). This store is the ...
Viewed 1010 times since 19 July 2009.
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Beaches at Fort de Soto
We recently spent a fantastic day at the amazing beaches of Fort de Soto. Situated on Florida’s stunning west coast this island is close to Tampa and Clearwater and only takes about 90 minutes to drive to from the Disney area. Fort de Sota is...
Viewed 725 times since 29 November 2010.
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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 1734 times since 1 September 2008.
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Best rollercoasters in Orlando
Having been to Orlando a few times now and sampled some of the best rides Florida has to offer I thought it only right I now shared my views on the best and worst rides in Orlando, Florida. If you are after a white knuckle experience then you have co...
Viewed 2871 times since 1 September 2008.
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Beyond Disney
Many of our guests come back year after year and it’s not just because they’re addicted to Mickey Mouse and his buddies, although of course many are! There are so many other wonderful places to visit within an hour or so of the theme parks so if you’...
Viewed 725 times since 6 February 2010.
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Bird watching in the Theme Parks
One of the many unexpected joys of visiting the theme parks for me is the bird life which abounds there. If you are not a person who loves the rides then the parks still hold many thrills and fun experiences and not the least for me are the m...
Viewed 1517 times since 1 September 2008.
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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 1170 times since 7 February 2009.
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Lovely Blue Spring State Park - A Great Day Out
If you want to see some of Florida’s natural beauty, take a ride out to the Blue Spring State Park. One of many State Parks to be found in Central Florida, this is a tranquil area of Florida - a renown manatee refuge in the cooler months around Decem...
Viewed 1409 times since 1 September 2008.
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Blue Spring State Park - Part 1: The Boardwalk Area
Kevin and I experienced a wonderful day at this peaceful and beautiful State Park, during a trip to our Florida home, January 2006. Blue Spring is the largest spring on the St. Johns River and the best time to visit is from the end of November throug...
Viewed 1360 times since 1 September 2008.
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Blue Spring State Park – Part 2: The St. Johns Boat Trip
Having spent an enchanting couple of hours walking the Boardwalk and watching the aquatic wildlife, we were absolutely captivated by the whole area, thoroughly relaxed and pleasantly anticipating our leisurely 2 hour boat trip down the St Johns river...
Viewed 1432 times since 1 September 2008.
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BOCA GRANDE LIGHTHOUSE MUSEUM AND VISITORS CENTER
We recently spent a few days away on the Gulf Coast and while there one of the places we visited was the Boca Grande Lighthouse Museum and Visitors Center. It is situated on Gasparilla Island State Island Park which marks the deep water channel into ...
Viewed 1495 times since 1 September 2008.
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Boggy Creek Airboat Rides - Great Fun
What an exhilarating experience these airboat rides prove to be. Nestled at the end of the Kissimmee chain of lakes at Southport Park is what I believe to be one of the best rides in Florida.
You can take a tour in a US Coast Guard in...
Viewed 1301 times since 1 September 2008.
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Bok Sanctuary
Now, Historic Bok Sanctuary was hardly on our radar for a visit. It had always conjured up thoughts of somewhere serene, with spiritual or religious connotations that didn’t really fit, or appeal as part of a fun holiday around the Orlando metropolit...
Viewed 750 times since 16 October 2010.
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Bok Tower Gardens
For a quiet day out away from the hustle and bustle of the Parks you can do no better than visit Bok Tower Gardens – situated at the highest point in Florida, just under 92 metres. It is situated at Lake Wales, on highway 27. From the 192 you travel ...
Viewed 1453 times since 1 September 2008.
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Breakfast at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
Whether you are staying in a villa or a hotel when you are visiting Walt Disney World one thing for certain is that you will be eating out quite a lot.
In the UK we are used to eating out for dinner and lunch but eating out for breakfast ...
Viewed 650 times since 8 February 2011.
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Breakfast at The Market St Cafe
Breakfast at The Market St Cafe in Celebration is an absolute must for us on any trip to Orlando, in fact, if we don’t go at least two or three times each trip we feel badly done by! ! Apart from loving the whole ambience of Celebration itsel...
Viewed 1461 times since 1 September 2008.
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Bubba Gump Restaurant
We were recommended to eat at the The Bubba Gump Shrimp Co Restaurant and Market by friends who had recently returned from Orlando. We were not dissapointed! As usual our busy schedule when we visited Orlando in December left us with “too muc...
Viewed 2194 times since 1 September 2008.
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Bubba Gumps
There are many Bubba Gump’s Restaurants within Florida, however the one I am talking about is the one I have visited (Universal City Walk). The restaurant is designed around the 1994 film Forest Gump with all the memorabilia coming from the film or m...
Viewed 972 times since 22 December 2009.
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Build a Bear Workshop
If you are travelling with younger (or indeed not so young) members of your family/group, boys or girls, a visit to the Build-a-Bear-Workshop in the Florida Mall is an absolute must! Although already franchised in the UK I must admit I had never h...
Viewed 3117 times since 1 September 2008.
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Busch Gardens
Wild Life, Rides, Show’s and much more. A fantastic action packed day out at one of Florida’s premiere theme parks. Situated at Tampa, approximately 1 hours drive from Orlando, Busch Gardens should be treated as a long day out. We lef...
Viewed 1940 times since 1 September 2008.
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Busch Gardens - A great day out
We set off for Busch gardens at the crack of dawn (or what seemed like the crack of dawn)to get to the park and avoid the traffic. We did not want to be late and have to queue up to get in the park. It was August after all. It took around 1 hour to g...
Viewed 1098 times since 1 September 2008.
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Busch Gardens In Tampa
If you enjoy thrill rides, Busch Gardens Theme Park, is a great choice. From our house west of Orlando it takes just over an hour to drive down the I4 to the nearest outskirts of Tampa to enjoy a family fun day out!
As the name sugges...
Viewed 753 times since 7 February 2010.
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Busch Gardens – Water Rides
Busch Gardens – Water Rides As a family, we consider Busch Gardens a really fantastic day out. It takes a little travelling to get there, but it is definitely worth the extra driving time. Each time we have visited, the queues have been insign...
Viewed 1661 times since 1 September 2008.
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Busch Gardens Tampa
Our latest trip to Busch Gardens started with a tasty, if slightly unhealthy, breakfast at Denny’s on the 27 and then we headed off into the sun for a day in Tampa. It took us just under an hour to get to Busch Gardens. It was a Friday and we were...
Viewed 1558 times since 1 September 2008.
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Bush Gardens
When many people visit Orlando a lot do not realise there is so many great places to visit up to an hour away. From Orlando you can get to either coast (East or West) in around an hour. Located just outside Tampa (around 1 hour) from Kissimmee is Bus...
Viewed 6027 times since 25 February 2009.
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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 1430 times since 1 September 2008.
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BUZZ LIGHTYEAR AT MAGIC KINGDOM
Up until last year we had not been on the Buzz Lightyear ride at Disney Magic Kingdom, so we were looking forward to it. The ride is located in the Tommorowland part of the park and is a great ride for the whole family. While you queue for the ride y...
Viewed 1514 times since 1 September 2008.
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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 212 times since 12 October 2011.
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Cassadaga Spiritual Retreat
If you want something different on your Florida holiday away from the theme parks and the hustle and bustle of Orlando why not visit Cassadaga Psychic Village which is located at Exit 114 on I4 - but don’t be disappointed if the residents of t...
Viewed 769 times since 1 December 2010.
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Celebration – a breath of fresh air!
When you feel like a change of pace away from the busy theme parks and the crowds, Celebration is a lovely place to visit. Head for Market Street which is an area of shops and restaurants in the centre of Celebration, all set around a beautiful lake....
Viewed 1325 times since 1 September 2008.
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Celebration - the place to celebrate your trip to Florida!
A visit to the Orlando area of Florida would not be complete without a visit to the town of Celebration, it is one of our favourite places and we are sure you will love it just as much as we do. Situated off Highway 192, close to the I4 junction, you...
Viewed 1582 times since 1 September 2008.
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Celebration - A Brief Guide
One of our favourite places to visit, apart from the numerous theme parks in and around Orlando, is called Celebration. Celebration is a little town just south of the US 192 adjacent to Interstate 4. One of the best ways of finding it, if you have ne...
Viewed 812 times since 5 January 2010.
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Celebration Restaurants – Update
There have been some changes at Celebration over the last year or so but it remains a great place to go for a lunch or for an evening meal. It is such a pleasant environment and people there, including the drivers tend to be polite and considerate. <...
Viewed 726 times since 28 December 2009.
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Celebration Town
Celebration is a lovely place to visit when you want a change of pace from the theme parks and more noisy and hectic activities. Head for Market Street which is set around a beautiful lake – a delightful area of shops and restaurants in the centre of...
Viewed 2451 times since 1 January 2009.
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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 1475 times since 1 September 2008.
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Characters in Flight
Next time you visit Disney in Orlando, Florida, look up in the sky – you may well see the latest attraction based at Downtown Disney Waterside – a giant helium balloon which will take you soaring above the park to a height of 400 ft, in absolute sile...
Viewed 969 times since 26 April 2009.
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Charlotte Harbour on the Cape Haze Peninsular.
Charlotte County is home to two freshwater rivers, the Myakka River and Peace River both of which flow into Charlotte Harbour and Lemon Bay and on into the ocean. Charlotte Harbour’s bay is located at the bottom of the Cape Haze peninsular an...
Viewed 1371 times since 1 September 2008.
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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 1433 times since 6 February 2009.
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choosing the right villa (part 2)
Now that we have chosen type/ Size of villa, location, type of community the villa is on we need to look at a little more detail of each one. By now you would have got a short list together of all of the above and started to narrow the search...
Viewed 1689 times since 1 September 2008.
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Christmas at Busch Gardens
Busch Gardens is one of our favourite theme parks and we try to visit it at least once on each of our trips to Florida. This trip was our first visit for Christmas to Busch so we were excited to see how the park differed from our normal trips. Viewed 887 times since 22 December 2009.
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Christmas at Christmas
Christmas at Christmas
Some of the family were at the villa in Florida; Christmas was looming and we wanted to contact friends and family back home . We decided that we would visit the small township of Christmas in order to secure its uni...
Viewed 760 times since 18 March 2011.
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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 1096 times since 3 January 2009.
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Christmas at the Ford Edison Winter Estate, Fort Myers.
Built on a breathtaking setting on McGregor Boulevard, Fort Myers are the winter homes of Thomas Edison and his great friend Henry Ford. Edison, one of America’s most prolific inventors, collapsed from exhaustion and was advised by his Doctor to find...
Viewed 1632 times since 15 December 2008.
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Christmas in Celebration
Large numbers of tourists travel to Florida for the Christmas vacation, or simply “The Holidays” as it is affectionately known by our US neighbours, and whilst they are unlikely to be expecting the traditional Christmas, one or two may exhibit a few ...
Viewed 768 times since 8 January 2011.
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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 15143 times since 1 September 2008.
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Cinderella Castle
Every little girls dream must be to visit Cinderella’s castle. It is the place where dreams are made, and is such a fabulous building. Not only for the little girls though, as all ages seem to find the castle magical, romantic and full of chil...
Viewed 1792 times since 1 September 2008.
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Cinderella - Some Interesting Facts
Cinderella just has to be the ultimate Disney princess, and the one most loved by everyone. Generations have been held spellbound by the charming story of poor Cinderella, whose dreams of romance eventually come true, despite the cruelty of her wicke...
Viewed 8185 times since 1 September 2008.
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Cinderella's Golden Carousel
Cinderella’s Golden Carousel is the centrepiece of Fantasyland in Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. It was actually built in 1917 by Italian woodcarvers for Detroit Palace Garden Park. In 1928 it was taken to Philadelphia to be renovated and...
Viewed 736 times since 1 August 2009.
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Citywalk At Universal
Citywalk is located between Universal two theme Parks, Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. It is a 30 acre entertainment complex! A lot of the shops and restaurants are open all day, however it really comes into it’s own during the evening. <...
Viewed 1336 times since 1 September 2008.
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Clearwater Beach
No visit to the Orlando area is complete without a visit to one of the gorgeous beaches in this lovely part of the world. Our particular favourites are on the Gulf Coast and if you want a quick fix the nearest is at Clearwater Beach. It’s roughly abo...
Viewed 1460 times since 1 September 2008.
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The Columbia Restaurant, Celebration
One of our favourite restaurants is the Columbia which is located on Front Street in the town of Celebration. The restaurant overlooks Celebration’s main lake so it's a great setting for a fantastic meal. The Columbia is one of a chain of seve...
Viewed 1500 times since 1 September 2008.
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Crabby Bills
CRABBY BILLS RESTAURANT
Crabby bills restaurant is located in St Cloud and is well worth the run down to it from Kissimmee.
It is on the shores of Lake Toho at 1104 Lakeshore Drive
To get to here you go down the Hyw192 into St...
Viewed 1058 times since 1 March 2011.
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Cracker Barrel-Old Country Store
Cracker Barrel is quite unique as it is both a store and a restaurant, hence the name so you can shop, eat or do both. This is a country wide chain with various locations through out the Orlando area. They are easy to spot with the traditional cou...
Viewed 2208 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 2591 times since 1 September 2008.
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Cracker Barrels Specialities
We usually manage to eat at Cracker Barrel at some time during our stay at our beautiful villa, and at different times each year they introduce special menus.
Breakfast is probably one of our favourite meals at Cracker Barrel as we find i...
Viewed 637 times since 28 January 2011.
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Picking up a cruise in Fort Lauderale
Although we love Orlando and visiting our villa, sometimes we like to combine it with a Caribbean cruise. If you, too, have decided to combine a trip to Orlando, with a cruise that departs from Fort Lauderdale, then you will need to make your way to ...
Viewed 1926 times since 1 September 2008.
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Cruising – Jamaica Part 2 – Martha Brae River Rafting
After journeying through torrential rain in our dilapidated coach we arrive after an hour and a half at our destination – the Martha Brae River Rafting Centre. The River Rafting centre at Rafters’ Rest is set amongst lush tropical vegetation,...
Viewed 809 times since 11 October 2010.
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CRUISING - THE TENDERING PORTS
When cruising around the Caribbean it is almost inevitable that you will find yourself visiting an island where the ship is unable to dock alongside. Many of the Caribbean islands are very small, and do not have the facilities for the larger cruise s...
Viewed 1300 times since 1 September 2008.
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DAY TRIPS FROM ORANDO
Orlando and the buzz it creates for tourists and locals alike with its heady mix of theme parks, shopping, eating and drinking is a Mecca for millions of tourists every year, but sometimes you have just got to escape from this buzz and relax a little...
Viewed 1752 times since 1 September 2008.
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Daytona Beach (1)
Daytona Beach may not be renowned as the prettiest beach in Florida, or indeed the United States, but it has to be one of the most fun beaches with so much to do and watch! And it’s legendary throughout the world for being able to drive right onto th...
Viewed 1898 times since 1 September 2008.
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Dearborn Street – Englewood, South Gulf Coast
Old Englewood Town maintains its charm and “Real Florida” appeal on Dearborn Street. From Venice side turn right into Dearborn from North Indianna Avenue Hw776. Half way down the street is a collection of small shops and bars. There you will ...
Viewed 955 times since 4 May 2009.
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The Delights of Mount Dora
Our intention was to drive for no more than an hour from our base just south of Clermont and find a lakeside retreat where we could enjoy a relaxing afternoon. After looking through our road maps we plumped for Mount Dora, which is situated i...
Viewed 1870 times since 1 September 2008.
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Disney Boardwalk
The Boardwalk, close to Epcot, and signposted from within Disney World is a wonderful relaxing place to visit, particularly in the evening. It is themed on an Atlantic seaside resort from a bygone era. You can almost see the ladies in their long dres...
Viewed 1756 times since 1 September 2008.
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Disney Celebration Cruise...Wishes
I wanted to do something special for my husband’s 50th birthday and after looking on the Disney World website at all the behind the scene tours, came across the Speciality Cruises under the More Magic, Other Recreation section and thought this sounde...
Viewed 1065 times since 30 July 2009.
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Disney Christmas Celebrations
Why not visit Disney’s Epcot anytime after Thanksgiving and get to watch the Candlelight Processional. This is a massed choir, a 50 piece orchestra and an A list celebrity narrator. Some of the narrators this year(2010) include names such as Whoopi G...
Viewed 866 times since 21 November 2010.
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Disney Quest
Disney Quest is located in Downtown Disney, and is usually included as one of the extra options, alongside the Water Parks, and Disney’s Wide World of Sports complex. It might be something you could consider visiting if the weather is inclement. Howe...
Viewed 550 times since 14 July 2010.
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Disney Water Parks – Blizzard Beach
We are frequent visitors to Florida but this was our first visit in February and we were not sure what the weather would be like. The first two days there were very cold, but the temperatures soon picked up and we started to look forward to our plann...
Viewed 1464 times since 1 September 2008.
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Disney Water Parks – Tips + A Few Fun Facts!
General Don't forget your sunscreen! Measure your child's height before you arrive at the Park so you know which attractions they will be able to ride. Many Disney Cast Members can speak more than one lang...
Viewed 2409 times since 1 September 2008.
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Disney's Animal Kingdom
I have to admit that I think I have under estimated this park. Animal Kingdom is Disney’s newest theme park which opened its doors in April 1998. I had only visited it twice, just after its opening and three years later - maybe because I have ...
Viewed 1469 times since 1 September 2008.
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Disney’s best restaurants
When you start with a title like that you just know that someone else will have another view. Mine is based 30 years of visits to Disney and many meals in most of their restaurants. I have tried to pick out 6 different styles where hopefully none wil...
Viewed 1917 times since 1 September 2008.
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Disney’s Boardwalk Dining
There are a variety of ways to reach the Boardwalk, but for the majority of visitors the most convenient approach is to park at the Boardwalk Inn car park. If challenged at the entrance just tell the guard that you are going for a meal, snack or even...
Viewed 2067 times since 1 September 2008.
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Dine out at Disney's Polynesian Resort
Looking for a change from the everyday eateries in the Orlando area? Need somewhere to eat where the children will be entertained? Why not try Ohana at the Disney Polynesian Resort? Parking is free - the driver will just need to show pi...
Viewed 1705 times since 1 September 2008.
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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 935 times since 10 June 2010.
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Disney’s Tower of Terror
The Tower of Terror is a thrilling experience like no other located in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. It is set in a hotel from the television programme ‘The Twilight Zone’. To begin with you queue up in themed lines with eerie smoke being spray...
Viewed 2061 times since 1 September 2008.
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Disney’s Winter Summerland Miniature Golf – Summer Course
The tale behind this wonderful miniature golf is that on a moonlit Christmas Eve Santa Claus found the ideal spot for a vacation for both himself and Mrs Claus. It turned out to be Blizzard Beach. In no time at all Santa and Mrs Claus had moved their...
Viewed 1158 times since 15 February 2009.
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DISNEYWORLD FAIRYTALE WEDDING
I would imagine any young girl visiting Disney World, would think that one day they would love to find their prince and get married in Disneyworld after all that’s where the stuff small children dreams are made? Disneyworld over the years hav...
Viewed 880 times since 29 April 2010.
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Do you have to be a child to enjoy Orlando Part 1
Do you have to be a child to enjoy Orlando? Absolutely not. You do not even have to be a child to enjoy Disney World and all it’s parks. First, let me dispel some of the myths about Disney World. It is not Alton Towers only Bigger – not by a long way...
Viewed 696 times since 31 October 2010.
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Do you have to be a child to enjoy Orlando part 2
Do you have to be a child to enjoy Orlando? ? Absolutely not. You do not even have to be a child to enjoy Disney World and all its parks. But for now let me tell you about some of the other parks that are just as much fun for adults as they are for c...
Viewed 686 times since 31 October 2010.
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Do you have to be a child to enjoy Orlando part 3
Do you have to be a child to enjoy Orlando? Absolutely not. There other theme parks to enjoy as well as some other exciting activities for grown ups looking for something different. There is the Kennedy Space Centre. This is a wonderfully edu...
Viewed 656 times since 31 October 2010.
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Don Pablo's
This Tex-Mex restaurant is situated directly on International drive. It serves good Mexican food in a large cantina style environment. If you go early in the evening you should have no problem getting a table straight away but be warned it is...
Viewed 999 times since 19 June 2009.
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Don Pedro – A Florida State Park
Don Pedro Island is one of an extensive chain of barrier islands which skirt the coastline of the Cape Haze Peninsular. Located between Knight Island and Little Gasparilla Island, Don Pedro is accessible only by private boat or ferry. Cars ar...
Viewed 1289 times since 1 September 2008.
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Downtown Disney Fun
Downtown Disney is the Disney version of a town centre with shops, restaurant and leisure activities. It is quite simply the best place to shop eat and be entertained Disney Style. Downtown in fun and friendly and well worth a visit. Downtown...
Viewed 1153 times since 1 January 2009.
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Downtown Disney – Market Place
Downtown Disney is a great place to visit when on your holiday in Orlando. It’s a place you can visit to pass a few hours if you arrive before your house is available for check in, during your holiday if you want to get more ‘Disney’ without ...
Viewed 1575 times since 1 September 2008.
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Downtown Disney Dining - West Side
There are some really great restaurants at West side, whether you’re looking for a light lunch, or blow-out belt busting dinner, you won’t be disappointed. All the restaurants are non-smoking. Bongos Cuban Café Open from 11am ...
Viewed 1350 times since 1 September 2008.
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DRAGON CHALLENGE - UNIVERSAL ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE
There are many good rollercoaster’s in Orlando, some being up there with the World’s best. Dragon Challenge at Universal Studios Islands of Adventure is well renowned as being one of the best in Florida and in the US. The ride is situated in the back...
Viewed 1035 times since 23 December 2009.
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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 189 times since 2 November 2011.
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Eating on a Budget – Hollywood Studios
I suppose planning your meal stops when visiting a theme park is hardly high on the agenda but, for families with children or those on a budget, it is worth considering what options are available. Disney’s Hollywood Studios is well represente...
Viewed 877 times since 15 December 2009.
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EDEN GARDENS
Eden Gardens State Prk is locted in Santa Rosa Beach in Point Washington in Floridas pan handle. It is just off u. s. 98 on C. R 395. This is one of those lovely State Parks where there is a house as well as lovely grounds to visitand it make...
Viewed 1388 times since 1 September 2008.
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Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park
On our last trip in April, we were determined to finally take a long promised trip to see the Manatees in their natural environment, so we did some research and decided to visit a recommended area, Crystal Springs and The Homosassa Springs area in We...
Viewed 107 times since 23 March 2012.
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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 797 times since 8 November 2009.
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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 633 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 591 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 435 times since 19 March 2011.
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Tips on enjoying Blizzard Beach to the full
Always remember to take your sunscreen with you – even when it is cloudy you can get burned! Apply sunscreen often, especially as you will be in and out of the water. Parking is free at both water parks! Buy an insul...
Viewed 1493 times since 1 September 2008.
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Epcot (1)
Epcot is one of the four Disney world parks. The most stunning imaginative place to visit while you are in Florida. It is divided into two parts so give yourself time to explore this mind-blowing place. Most visitors that have already been ke...
Viewed 1842 times since 1 September 2008.
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EPCOT
If you have never been to Walt Disney World before one of the best parks is EPCOT. Situated around a large lake area, there park is orientated around science and technology theme, with many of the rides and attractions taking on this type of theme.Viewed 175 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 1130 times since 1 September 2008.
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The Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival 2009
We enjoyed the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival quite by chance one year, when we visited Orlando. This annual festival usually takes place between March and May, and this year the 16th festival starts on March 18th and finishes on May ...
Viewed 1038 times since 22 March 2009.
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Epcot The World Show Case Part 1
The World Show Case Part 1 One of the must visit places on any trip to Disney has to be Epcot and in particular the World Show Case, this in my view is still one of the greatest attractions in the whole of Disney. Epcot is split into t...
Viewed 922 times since 27 December 2009.
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Epcot The World Show Case Part 2
The next country along from Norway is China, to fully enjoy China I recommend you check the show times as there are a band of Chinese Dragon Legend acrobats that put on display at the entrance to China a number of times in the day they are not to be ...
Viewed 670 times since 27 December 2009.
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Epcot The World Show Case Part 3
Following on from America you visit Japan. Here you can visit the Bijutsa Gallery set amongst a Rock Garden with pools filled with Koi Carp fish it is a very peaceful and serene place, if you pick the right time you can see the astounding Taiko drumm...
Viewed 673 times since 27 December 2009.
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Epcot-World Showcase (1)
I have always had a bit of a love/hate relationship with Epcot over the last few years. Sometimes I love it-especially in springtime if it’s now too crowded and they have the flower festival on and other times when it’s really hot and busy I feel lik...
Viewed 1575 times since 1 September 2008.
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Epcot World Showcase - Canada
Canada has it all - beautiful landscaped gardens, cascading waterfalls, the awesome Rockies, a premier restaurant and intricately carved totem poles.
Visitors coming in through the main entrance of the Canadian pavillion are met with the ...
Viewed 662 times since 22 January 2011.
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Epcot – World Showcase – Mexico
For priority seating in the San Angel Inn call 407 939 3463 There are 11 countries in the World Showcase, Mexico is the 1st if you are going clockwise around the lagoon. As you enter Mexico you cannot fail to be impressed by the Gian...
Viewed 1324 times since 1 September 2008.
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Epcot – World Showcase – United Kingdom
For priority seating at the Rose and Crown call 407 939 3463 There are 11 countries in the World Showcase, the United Kingdom is the 10th if you are going clockwise around the lagoon. Walking into the UK at Epcot is great, there are ...
Viewed 1541 times since 1 September 2008.
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ESPN Club
Walt Disney World Resort and ESPN have teamed up at the Boardwalk to present the ESPN Club. This is the place to go if you’re a sports fan as it provides a 13,000 square foot club which includes a multimedia entertainment centre, a television and ...
Viewed 1917 times since 1 September 2008.
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Evie’s Florida Holiday
Evie’s Florida Holiday Since I was about 3 years old all I wanted to do was go to Florida. I’d constantly watch Disney videos and learn every single word by heart (Beauty and the Beast was my favourite). When I was 5 my mum bought me a compute...
Viewed 688 times since 9 December 2009.
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Experience a Shuttle Launch!
My secret ambition would have been to be an astronaut … one of my favourite films is Apollo 13. Having grown up as a young child watching Neil Armstrong land on the moon I guess my opportunity has long gone! ! ! But the Shuttle Launch Experience give...
Viewed 1082 times since 1 September 2008.
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Explore Sea World
Sea World is one of the non-Disney attractions but with the advent of three major thrill rides it has become one of the “must sees” of Orlando. Although there are three high speed thrill rides there now, by far the most popular attractions ar...
Viewed 730 times since 12 December 2010.
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Extras to be enjoyed in Orlando
What else can be enjoyed in Orlando apart from theme parks? The answer to that question is simply, so much.
Culture and Heritage. Apart from many museums and art galleries, there are often festivals such as the Florida Film Festival, the Fl...
Viewed 551 times since 30 January 2011.
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Travelling "en-famille"
What shall we do to celebrate the Millennium?" That’s how it started.
"Lets go to Disneyland"!
"All of us together?"
"Why not?"
Now for a small group of lik...
Viewed 1250 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 2248 times since 1 September 2008.
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Fantasy of Flight
We have often passed by the sign on I4 for Flight of Fantasy its about half way between Tampa and Orlando in Polk City and really never gone in but last time in Florida we decided to give it a go and what a success. We did think that it would...
Viewed 1394 times since 1 September 2008.
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Fantasy of Flight - Polk County
Just a short way off Junction 44 on the I4, Fantasy of Flight is within easy reach of anyone staying in a villa in the Kissimmee area. We find this place and its owner Kermit Weeks, who was performing a fly past the last time we visited, absolutely f...
Viewed 534 times since 19 March 2011.
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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 1326 times since 1 September 2008.
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Farmers' Market at Celebration
We have only just discovered the Farmers’ Market held at Celebration each Sunday morning. It is now going to be a regular visit for us the first Sunday we visit. It operates October though May from 9 am to 3 pm. The main road down to the lake...
Viewed 1414 times since 1 September 2008.
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My Favourite Disney Park Part 2
OK so in my last article I started to change my mind after stating the Epcot was my favourite Disney Park to visit and now it’s Magic Kingdom! One of the main reasons that Magic Kingdom is my favourite Disney park has to be to do with the fac...
Viewed 906 times since 7 June 2009.
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My Favourite Florida Restaurant
On my first trip to Florida we decided to take a trip down to Downtown Disney one early evening and thought we would perhaps try to find somewhere to eat. After a short while we decided that we would try the impressive looking Fulton’s Crab house ...
Viewed 1520 times since 1 September 2008.
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Festival of the Lion KIng - Disneys Animal Kingdom Theme Park
For our family this is a must do on every visit to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park.
Festival of the Lion King is performed in an air conditioned theater at camp Minnie-Mickey at regular intervals during the day. The show itself lasts approxi...
Viewed 1020 times since 9 February 2011.
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Flights
When is the best time to book flights to Florida? To be honest there is no hard and fast rule on this subject and many people find they are either lucky or not. There are some golden rules when booking flights and hopefully I can explain some reasons...
Viewed 1592 times since 1 September 2008.
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Florida weather
Have you ever wondered why so many people choose Florida for their vacation? Maybe it has something to do with the great weather and on average 265 days of sunshine per year! It is not called the SUNSHINE STATE for nothing. Being located in southern ...
Viewed 2442 times since 9 March 2009.
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Florida Wildlife
One of the intriguing things about visiting Florida is spotting the wildlife it its natural habitat! There are some wonderful examples – animals, birds and even reptiles that for most Brits are a thrill to see! Most people will only ever see some of ...
Viewed 1226 times since 16 September 2008.
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Flying to Tampa with British Airways
It never ceases to thrill me to know that we are crossing that huge pond, the Atlantic, on our way to our villa in Florida. For years we were avid watchers of ‘Miami Vice’ and the first time we drove round this amazing city we were just holding our b...
Viewed 650 times since 2 October 2010.
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Epcot Concert Schedule at the International Food and Wine Festival
Held annually from the end of September through October and into November this popular event has now expanded to 45 days, we have visited for the last 4 years and each time it has been bigger and better! We’re off again this year! Normal park ...
Viewed 1640 times since 1 September 2008.
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The Friendly Fisherman Restaurant, Madeira Beach
If you have had a wonderful day on one of the Gulf beaches, why not bring the evening to a close by visiting the Friendly Fisherman Restaurant, at John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk, located just off Highway 699, south of Clearwater, and just north of...
Viewed 1702 times since 1 September 2008.
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Fun Spot Action Park
After finding the Fun Spot by accident on our last visit and having had a great time on the go-carts there, we decided to revisit on our recent trip in February this year. Fun Spot is based off International Drive (near Wet and Wild) and has ...
Viewed 1715 times since 1 September 2008.
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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 316 times since 13 July 2011.
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GASPARILLA ISLAND
Gasparilla Island State Park is in Lee County on Floridas south west (Gulf) coast. It is near Boca Grande and is one of the chain of Gulf Coast barrier islands. According to Folklore, it was so named after a pirate called Jose Gaspar, who was...
Viewed 1900 times since 1 September 2008.
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Gatorland in Florida
Gatorland, on South Orange Blossom Trail, is ideal for a half day outing, although you can take longer and stay all day. It makes a great break from the busy, big theme parks. The huge, gaping gator jaws with big white teeth make an unmistakable entr...
Viewed 750 times since 16 February 2010.
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Dining At Gaylord Palms
If you are looking for somewhere that little bit extra special then Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Centre is an experience not to be missed. The showcase piece is the striking glass dome atrium that houses everything under its roof. From th...
Viewed 1583 times since 1 September 2008.
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Getting Wet at Universal and Seaworld.
You cannot visit the many theme parks in Orlando without experiencing the water rides at least once – after all, on a boiling hot summer’s day there is nothing more refreshing than getting a soaking, or so my children would have me believe. Personall...
Viewed 1677 times since 9 September 2008.
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Glenbrook – a popular place to stay
Glenbrook is a very popular attractive community just north of H192, on H27 – an ideal location for that magical vacation you’ve dream of in Orlando. Easy to find just one mile north on the 192, Walgreens marks the right turning into Glenbroo...
Viewed 1591 times since 1 September 2008.
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Golf in Orlando
Golf courses in the Orlando area provide for the beginner to the Pro. To a beginner it does seam rather intimidating but if you want to have a go Florida is the place to try it. All equipment is availably to hire you can hire golf carts, club...
Viewed 1603 times since 16 December 2008.
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Golf on the Cape Haze Peninsular, Rotonda West.
For the avid golfer, Rotonda West offers five challenging golf courses, with another, the Pine Valley course, under construction, due for completion in 2008. There are many other pristine courses within a 30 minute drive of Rotonda West which also...
Viewed 1324 times since 1 September 2008.
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The Grand Floridian Hotel
The Grand Floridian is a wonderful display of the splendor of the old grand style Victorian hotels that were built after the railroad made Florida accessible. This style of hotel was built when Florida became the place to go in the winter of the mid ...
Viewed 2124 times since 1 September 2008.
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Day Out at Green Meadows Petting Farm
Right – so you’ve been in Florida for a while now and, to be honest, you’ve seen enough of the “mouse” to last a lifetime! ! You’ve probably been on every ride under the sun (and vowed that each one would be your last) and have watched every parade a...
Viewed 1828 times since 1 September 2008.
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Gulf Coast Airports
If you are visiting the Gulf Coast beaches you have a good choice of airports to fly into. Anywhere from Fort Myers up to Clearwater is easily accessed by the airports of Tampa, Sarasota and Fort Myers. You may find the following information of inter...
Viewed 1746 times since 1 September 2008.
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Gwazi Busch Gardens, Tampa Bay
Busch Gardens at Tampa Bay with its many different styles of roller coaster has one quite unusual offering – Gwazi. As you enter Busch Garden, bear left through some of its prettiest gardens with beautiful flowers and plants, towards Stanleyv...
Viewed 867 times since 14 February 2010.
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Hard Rock Cafe
I have visited Florida on many occasions and never eaten in a better place, this is without doubt one of the best places to visit in Florida. If you have not been to The Hard Rock Cafe before they serve good old traditional American food (Burg...
Viewed 1617 times since 1 September 2008.
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Dine at the Hard Rock Cafe
After many years of visiting Orlando and Universal Studios we finally managed to book a table at the Hard Rock Cafe. The Cafe in Orlando is the largest Hard Rock Cafe in the world, is very impressive and is next door to Hard Rock Live with its mock R...
Viewed 2004 times since 1 September 2008.
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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 767 times since 22 January 2010.
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High Grove – A Great Place to Stay
High Grove is a new (completed late 2005) top class resort development of 3, 4 and 5 bedroom homes situated in one of the most convenient locations in the Disney area. I must point out that I am biased as this is where I decided to buy my home when H...
Viewed 6420 times since 1 September 2008.
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High Grove Resort – an update
I can’t believe it’s almost a year since I wrote my first Florida guide article about High Grove but it is so I thought I’d better up date it as a few things have changed, all for the better I might add. High Grove is a first class resort dev...
Viewed 2547 times since 1 September 2008.
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Historic Bok Sanctuary
Historic Bok Sanctuary is described in their leaflet as “A Remarkable Experience that Will Elevate Your Mind and Spirit” and I think that this sums it up perfectly. Situated in Lake Wales, easily reached from the theme parks and attractions of Orland...
Viewed 749 times since 1 September 2008.
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Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
On our last visit to Orlando in Sep of 2009 we were looking keeping our eyes peeled for the start of the new ride to hit Orlando’s Universal Studios, Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit. This new ride can be seen from the entrance to Orlando (right behind the ...
Viewed 773 times since 24 September 2009.
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Hoop De Doo
Want a great family night out that’s a little bit different? Then try Disney’s Hoop de Doo. It’s loud, it’s colourful, it’s noisy, it’s crazy with slap stick humour, but most importantly it’s fun! We had not tried it until this summer...
Viewed 2183 times since 1 September 2008.
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My Ride at Horse World!
Every year we come to Florida , and stay in our house ‘Seventh Heaven’ in Emerald Island, Kissimmee. This year we planned to do some different activities, one being Western Horse back riding. My Nan, my Brother (aged 6), my Sister (aged 9),...
Viewed 1575 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 1721 times since 1 September 2008.
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Hot Air Ballooning in Florida
As a birthday treat, my husband had booked a trip in a hot air balloon for me and my youngest son (one child goes free). As Stuart (hubby) and Jamie (eldest son) were afraid of heights, it was left to us two to try this. We booked in for the ...
Viewed 1748 times since 1 September 2008.
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hot air balloons
I recently decided to take a hot air balloon ride. This was something I was very nervous about initially because I am very scared of heights. I was told that I would be fine and there was nothing to worry about. Well we were up at the crack o...
Viewed 1250 times since 1 September 2008.
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House of Blues – Part I
I have quiet an eclectic musical taste, from King Crimson to Simon & Garfunkel and The Rolling Stones to Coldplay with a bit of Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby thrown in for good measure. So in many respects it is a bit surprising that it has taken...
Viewed 776 times since 3 January 2010.
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ICE at Gaylord Palms Hotel
Having, for the last few years intended to visit this annual festive season exhibition at Gaylord Palms but never quite managing to fit it in to the hectic Xmas schedule we always seem to have, but during a month’s holiday at our villa last December ...
Viewed 1355 times since 1 September 2008.
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ICE! 2005
This article is the second in a series and should be read in conjunction with the others which give details of the location and how this amazing attraction is constructed. This year, ICE! will feature several new or updated scenes these will i...
Viewed 1443 times since 1 September 2008.
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ICE 2010
Each year Gaylord Palms Hotel and Convention Centre hosts “ICE” as part of their Christmas programme and it is really worth seeing. This is the second time that we have been and most of the display was completely new to us so it was well worth it. Viewed 765 times since 17 January 2010.
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ICE at the Gaylord Palms
Having never visited Florida at Christmas time before the one thing I was determined that we should see this year was ICE at The Gaylord Palms. I had heard good and bad reports of it but was going to make my own mind up. I therefore booked our ticket...
Viewed 1165 times since 2 January 2009.
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ICE - Gaylord Palms (Seasonal Exhibition)
2008 is the sixth year of the ICE exhibition at the Gaylord Palms hotel in Orlando and its biggest to date. This is also our first visit to the exhibition. The exhibition is a walk-through celebration of ice carvings, and this year included nearly tw...
Viewed 1302 times since 31 December 2008.
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ICE! - How they do it
This article is the third in a series and should be read in conjunction with the others which give details of the location and the scenes you will see inside. First let’s look at the raw figures to see what it takes to create this display. It ...
Viewed 1343 times since 1 September 2008.
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Ice in Florida
If you want to see ice in Florida then look no further than Ice spectacular at Gaylord Palms resort. The ice its self has been hand carved by Chinese artisans from Harbin, using over 2 million pounds of Ice and took over a month to completeViewed 1454 times since 12 December 2008.
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IllumiNations Cruise at Epcot
Have you ever stood in “France” watching the amazing pyrotechnics and lasers
over the lagoon at Epcot and seen the privileged few enjoying a glass of
champagne while watching the fireworks from their private launch and wondered
how they mana...
Viewed 1866 times since 1 September 2008.
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Interesting Facts About the Haunted Mansion
The Haunted Mansion at Magic Kingdom, Disneyworld, Orlando, is one of the most popular attractions. Although it opened in October, 1971 it recently underwent a big refurbishment and re-opened in September 2007, with improved animatronics and upgraded...
Viewed 1483 times since 1 September 2008.
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Islands of Adventure for little kids
Whilst Disney is brilliant for little kids Islands of Adventure tends to cater more to the older kids and teens, however if you are taking younger ones to Islands of Adventure don’t despair - there is still plenty to keep them amused. You just need t...
Viewed 968 times since 27 July 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 972 times since 22 October 2009.
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Islands of Adventure
As the name suggests, Islands of Adventure is a little more white knuckle than say the Disney Parks and probably aimed at the teenage bracket and above, although there is plenty of entertainment for the younger child. You would gain entrance ...
Viewed 952 times since 9 June 2009.
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Islands of Adventure - Universal Orlando
Islands of Adventure at Universal, Orlando is in my view the best park in Florida. It was built in 1999 right next door to Universal Studios to cater for the slightly older guests who like a little more thrill rides as well as keeping the younger one...
Viewed 277 times since 11 November 2011.
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Jaws Ride at Universal Studio
The Jaws ride must have been running for 20 years now at the Universal Studios Park in Orlando and rumours are that it will close its doors in 2012 for good to make way for a new attraction so visit this attraction soon if you get the chance. ...
Viewed 252 times since 23 December 2011.
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Jungle Cruise
The Jungle Cruise is one of Disney’s original rides and is never the same twice due to the ongoing narration from the boat’s captain. Some skippers are more enthusiasts than others and give it “all they’ve got” and you are made to feel that you are i...
Viewed 1128 times since 27 February 2009.
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Jungle Cruise - Magic Kingdom
The Jungle Cruise in Adventure Land, Magic Kingdom is a ride taken from the original in Disney Land in 1955. You will board a 1930’s style safari boat and be taken on a very unusual cruise on untamed rivers, through several continents in a matter of ...
Viewed 629 times since 22 December 2010.
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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 1737 times since 9 April 2009.
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Jurassic Park River Adventure – Islands of Adventure
I usually give the water rides at miss at theme parks, one because I’m a whimp and don’t want to get soaked and secondly because I don’t want to spend the rest of my day walking around dripping wet.
However, my daughter convinced me that ...
Viewed 1331 times since 6 January 2011.
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Kennedy Space Centre
Kennedy space centre is a truly awesome place to visit. The visitor complex is the best place to start. Here we have an IMAX theatre were they show 2 different films on stunning screens which are more than 5 storeys high. The first film we saw was Ma...
Viewed 1219 times since 29 December 2008.
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Kennedy Space Centre, Florida
No trip to Florida should end without a visit to the Kennedy Space Center. When you are so close it would be criminal not to visit the most historic place in America – from where all the space missions leave. It is situated about one hours drive from...
Viewed 958 times since 1 May 2010.
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Key West, Florida
If you like lively holidays, or vacations, Key West, Florida is just such an energetic place to visit. It has a fantastic atmosphere unlike any of the other Keys in the chain of islands that outstretch from the mainland, south of Miami, reaching out ...
Viewed 1246 times since 7 February 2010.
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Key West - The Trolley Tour
Whenever we visit a town or city for the first time as tourist we usually take the bus tour to get to know the local area. Our visit to Key West was no exception - we took the Key West Hop on Hop off Trolley Tour. This tour is as its name suggests, a...
Viewed 958 times since 7 November 2009.
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Key West (3)
If your in Florida for an extended period or you have done all the parks and
are looking for something else to do why not consider a trip to Key West.
You can do the drive in one day and if you do I would suggest you think about
stoppi...
Viewed 2080 times since 1 September 2008.
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Kissimmee Old Town – Thrill Rides
It’s difficult to recall the number of times we must have driven down the 192 from the airport and passed the huge metal frame of, what we now know to be, the Skycoaster at Kissimmee Old Town…. . and every time we promise ourselves that we will inves...
Viewed 1952 times since 1 September 2008.
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Lake Fishing in Orlando
When we think of Orlando, the images that immediately spring to mind are that of Mickey Mouse, The Disney Parks, Universal and SeaWorld, but did you know that Orlando is known as The Bass Capital of the World? What better way to experience the real F...
Viewed 1266 times since 2 November 2009.
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Beautiful Lake Louisa State Park
Lake Louisa State Park is situated off H27 approximately 15-20 minutes north of the I4 junction. Set in the northeast corner of the Green Swamp, a vast wetland in Central Florida, Lake Louisa is the largest in a chain of thirteen lakes connected by t...
Viewed 1525 times since 1 September 2008.
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Lake Louisa State Park (3)
Lake Louisa State Park is an award winning park covering four thousand five hundred acres .It is noted for it’s six beautiful lakes. The park is situated a short drive from Orlando off of the US27 in Clermont. It is open from 8am until sun...
Viewed 1412 times since 1 September 2008.
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Lake Louisa State Park - A Great Day Out
Despite passing it every time we went up Highway 27 we had never visited Lake Louisa State Park so this time we made the decision to go so one Sunday morning off we set. Drive 5 miles north on Highway 27 from Highway 192 and you will find thi...
Viewed 2843 times since 1 September 2008.
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Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards, Clermont, Florida
Most people think of Disney when they visit Orlando, but there are a million and one other things to do if you have time. If you enjoy wine then why not visit the Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards, approximately 25 miles west of Downtown Orlando, in Cle...
Viewed 1323 times since 30 December 2008.
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Le Cellier Steakhouse – Epcot
After listening to lots of rave reviews we were so disappointed on our last visit to miss out on Le Cellier Steakhouse as the restaurant was fully booked throughout the duration of our stay. This time I booked well in advance (strongly recomm...
Viewed 1430 times since 1 September 2008.
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The Legend of the Sand Dollar
There are many legends surrounding the Sand Dollar, but my favourite has to be that they are the coins of mermaids, who accidentally drop them, and which are then washed ashore on stormy nights. These small, round and fragile white discs are v...
Viewed 18279 times since 1 September 2008.
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The Lighthouses of Florida
I have to confess that, until I started some preliminary research for a trip to Key West and read about it’s lighthouse, I had not really considered the need or existence for such structures along the (in my mind) sandy shores of Florida. Cli...
Viewed 1458 times since 1 September 2008.
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Lights Camera Action Extreme Stunt show
This is one of the newest attractions in Disney Hollywood and in my view it is one of the very best, without doubt it is one of the most exciting shows with lots of noise and action, it is definitely not one to be missed! Lights Camera Action...
Viewed 1006 times since 19 October 2009.
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Lights, motors, action extreme stunt show - Hollywood Studios
Lights, motors, action extreme stunt show is located in the newly named Disney Hollywood studios (formerly Disney MGM Studios), the show takes the form of a stunt show set in Europe where you are shown how they do the stunts real time. When t...
Viewed 1726 times since 1 September 2008.
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Lights, Motors, Action! at Hollywood Studios
Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show We always enjoy spending Christmas in our beautiful villa in Orlando, but this year we had something new to look forward to when we visited the Disney parks. The new ‘extreme’ stunt show, ‘Lig...
Viewed 1567 times since 1 September 2008.
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Logan's Roadhouse
For some reason we had never got around to visiting a Logan’s on any of our previous trips to Orlando so this time we decided to give it a try on the recommendation of some friends. We chose the one on the corner of highway 192 and Internati...
Viewed 765 times since 1 September 2008.
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Longhorn Steakhouse
On our last visit to Florida at Easter 2009, we were delighted to see that a new Longhorn Steakhouse had just opened, situated off highway 192, quite close to our vacation home on highway 27. We have previously eaten at a Longhorn Steakhouse and had ...
Viewed 1520 times since 13 June 2009.
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Longhorns Steaakhouse
We were introduced to Longhorns Steakhouse on our first visit to Florida several years ago and we now make sure that we pay at least one visit to this excellent restaurant each time we visit our villa. If you like steak (and you have to if yo...
Viewed 636 times since 8 January 2010.
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Little ones at Magic Kingdom - Adventureland
Magic Kingdom is big…. very big! And as little legs can get tired with all the walking it’s a good idea to do a couple of ‘lands’ within Magic Kingdom and then head back to the villa for a swim or a nap – with your hopper tickets you can always come ...
Viewed 1269 times since 1 September 2008.
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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 1164 times since 22 October 2009.
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Little ones at Magic Kingdom - Main Street
The wonderful thing about all the Disney Parks is that there is ‘something for everyone’ and Magic Kingdom is especially wonderful for younger children. From the moment you park the car (don’t forget to take a note of which car park you’re in! ) and ...
Viewed 1393 times since 1 September 2008.
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The Magic of Seaworld
See World is another one of the 7 must visit parks in Orlando. Over the years there has been a lot of heavy development in this theme park and they have added many attractions to try and temp the guests away from Disney. Located just off the I...
Viewed 1340 times since 1 September 2008.
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A magical place to be on christmas eve
Last year we were in Florida for Christmas and the new year and what made it special was that we had all the family with us even the grandchildren aged 3 and 5 years So what could we do to make it special? We went down to celebration <...
Viewed 1847 times since 1 September 2008.
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Making the most of Disney Fast Pass
In 1999 Disney lead the way for theme parks by introducing the fast pass system. Many parks have since followed suit but none have been as bold as Disney were from the onset – allowing all guests to use fast pass, rather than those who were prepared ...
Viewed 1442 times since 1 September 2008.
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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 970 times since 12 January 2010.
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Manny's Chop House (1)
Ever wondered what a great American Diner should be like, look no further than Manny’s Chop House. Situated on the southbound side of the US27, just on the outskirts of Haines City, this extremely busy and vibrant restaurant has it all. From m...
Viewed 1868 times since 1 September 2008.
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Manta at Seaworld, Orlando
I was lucky enough to be one of the first people on this ride. The day we visited Seaworld Manta, their newest ride, was only open for park employees and their families. It was due to open to the general public about a week later. As we went round th...
Viewed 850 times since 16 February 2010.
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Mardi Gras comes to Orlando!
Having not been to Universal Studios and IOA for a few years, we were pleased and surprised to find that on a visit in April, your ticket into Universal (if used on a Saturday) has the added bonus, of the Mardi Gras celebrations. Not being too sur...
Viewed 1165 times since 1 September 2008.
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Mardi Gras Universal Studios
If you are going on holiday to Orlando between February and April, a ‘not to be missed’ night out is the Mardi Gras nights at Universal Studios. In 2009 the theme was ‘Let the Music Move You’, and featured concerts from various bands includin...
Viewed 962 times since 14 February 2010.
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Market Place Downtown Disney - Part 1
When you wake up on your first morning in Orlando, a good way to immerse yourself gently into the spirit of Disney is with a visit to Market Place in Downtown Disney. Here you will get the feel of what you are about to experience when you do your fir...
Viewed 170 times since 4 November 2011.
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Market Place Downtown Disney - Part 2
When you have exhausted the shopping, it may be time for lunch. There are many novelty restaurants in Market Place. One I mentioned in Part 1 of this article is the Earl of Sandwich. As the name suggests they sell sandwiches (and salads) but these ar...
Viewed 145 times since 4 November 2011.
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Market Place Downtown Disney - Part 3
Having told you about the wonderful, shopping and dining in Market Place Downtown Disney, I will now tell you about the attractions there.
There is the cutest little miniature train for the tiny people up to the age of about 8 called, Rio...
Viewed 179 times since 4 November 2011.
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Meerkats at Animal Kingdom
I simply love meerkats – can’t get enough of them. I am an avid watcher of ‘Meerkat Manor’ on Animal Planet, and stop everything when the ‘Compare the Meerkat/Market’ advert comes on. So I bet you can guess where I head straight for when I visit Disn...
Viewed 963 times since 26 April 2009.
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Miami Beach
When most people refer to Miami, they are in all probability actually talking about Miami Beach. Downtown Miami is on the west bank of Biscayne Bay while Miami Beach sits on a long spit of land bordered to the west by the bay and to the east by the A...
Viewed 1074 times since 7 July 2009.
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Miami Duck Tours
When I first saw the name ‘Miami Duck Tours’ my first thought was that it was some kind of trip for birdwatchers or maybe even an experience similar to that of visiting the Peabody Hotel on International Drive, Orlando, to see their world famous duck...
Viewed 787 times since 19 September 2010.
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Mickey's Not so Scary Halloween Party
Halloween wouldn’t be Halloween without a visit to Mickey’s not so scary Halloween party! It is great for the children (old or young! ) and I can thoroughly recommend it. It is exactly what it says and is “ not so scary “ as some of the other parks a...
Viewed 1557 times since 1 September 2008.
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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 695 times since 13 October 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 1401 times since 14 September 2010.
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Mickey's not very scary Halloween party
This was our first time in Disney 's Magic Kingdom for two years. we haven't been for quite some time as we have been waiting for our little grandson to be a little bit more aware and now at the grand age of almost three we felt the time was ready-an...
Viewed 1372 times since 1 September 2008.
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The Mall at Millenia
The newest and most stunning mall of all, the Mall at Millenia is one of our
favourites – even if we can only ‘window shop’! It is spacious and sparkling,
with huge areas of glass, marble and palm trees. Whilst it is not an outlet, so
prices...
Viewed 1980 times since 1 September 2008.
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Montu – Busch Gardens, Tampa Bay
Busch Gardens, Tampa has some wonderful rollercoaster rides – Sheikra being the most well known. However as you park your car and take the tram ride to the entrance, looming 150 high above into the sky is Montu’s towering cream coloured track. Turnin...
Viewed 1219 times since 14 February 2010.
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More about Universal Studios
Men in Black Alien Attack is one of my favourite if not my favourite ride in Universal Studios, not only do the adults like this ride but the kids will also. You undergo training which includes riding through an alien strewn town, but best of all you...
Viewed 1219 times since 1 September 2008.
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Mount Dora
If you ever want to go and see another part of Florida historic Mount Dora is certainly worth a look. It is 20 minutes North of Orlando an easy drive away from the hassle and bustle of buy Orlando and the most wonderful little place you could ...
Viewed 725 times since 1 September 2008.
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A day out at Mount Dora
If you''re thinking about a time-warp day, free of theme parks then think about
an escape to the New England of Florida, the antique capital as well as the
rose capital of Central Florida, Mount Dora.
Located 25 miles northwest of...
Viewed 2819 times since 1 September 2008.
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‘Must do’s’ at Universal’s Islands of Adventure
As villa owners our guests often ask us what are the ‘must do’ attractions at each of the parks. Obviously this does depend on the age and make up of your party however these are our ‘must do’ rides and attractions at Universal’s Islands of Adventure...
Viewed 2089 times since 1 September 2008.
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"Must Do's" at Typhoon Lagoon
First for those that have never visited Typhoon Lagoon let me give you a little background knowledge… According to Disney sources a few years ago there was a furious storm out at sea that was so violent that surfboards were blown into trees, s...
Viewed 2554 times since 1 September 2008.
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My first loop the loop ride - AeroSmith's Rock n Roller Coaster - Disney Hollywood Studios - April 2006
After many years I finally got to go on my first ever looped roller coaster. Being small can be good when I do gymnastics but it’s a thousand times bad when you’re waiting to be the right height to go on a ride. This week I finally made it! I went to...
Viewed 1477 times since 1 September 2008.
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Narcoossee’s - For that special occasion
During our Easter holiday in Orlando this year we celebrated the 30th wedding anniversary of my sister and her husband. Some time previously we had decided to take them out for a surprise meal, which meant finding the right restaurant and mak...
Viewed 1410 times since 1 September 2008.
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NASA Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB)
As you cross over the causeway on your journey to visit the Kennedy Space Centre, you see a huge, monstrous concrete building standing high above anything else you can see. Not the prettiest of structures but a very important one – the Vehicle Assemb...
Viewed 2245 times since 5 October 2008.
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New Innovations on Cruise Ships
In the twelve years or so that we have been cruising in the Caribbean there have been enormous changes and innovations in cruise ships. When we sailed on ‘Enchantment of the Seas’ in her inaugural season she was regarded as one of the large ships, bu...
Viewed 720 times since 5 January 2010.
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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 736 times since 8 November 2009.
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New Roller Coaster at Universal Studios
A visit to Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure in Orlando is always an exciting prospect as these parks have some of the wildest roller coasters to be found in Florida. My children love to experience ' The Hulk' and ' Duelling Dragons' , but so...
Viewed 2530 times since 31 December 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 727 times since 22 December 2009.
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XMAS DECORATIONS: A NIGHT OUT WITH A DIFFERENCE
Here is something you may not have thought about adding to your must do list when you visit Florida over the festive season. It is not just the theme parks and shopping malls which get into the festive spirit and decorates everything in sight so if y...
Viewed 1572 times since 1 September 2008.
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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 1772 times since 1 September 2008.
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Orange Tree Community, Florida
We are proud owners of a five bed roomed single story vacation home with its own private pool and spa, built on the Orange Tree community and here in this informative article you will find some useful information should you be lucky enough to be rent...
Viewed 1127 times since 27 December 2009.
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Orlando’s Lesser Known Attractions - Part II
While the big names, Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and Sea World, are the main crowd pullers to the Orlando Metropolitan area, there are also a great many smaller attractions that are well worth a visit if you are holiday...
Viewed 714 times since 1 August 2009.
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The Osborne Family Spectacle of Lights at Hollywood Studios
If you are visiting Orlando anytime between Thanksgiving and the New Year then you should definitely visit Disney’s Hollywood Studios to see one of the most amazing displays of Christmas Lights in the world. The display itself is breathtaking ...
Viewed 1354 times since 1 September 2008.
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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 213 times since 25 January 2012.
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Outdoor World - Part 1
On our first shopping trip to Festival Bay was a bit of an eye opener as we turned into the car park we saw a huge sign for Outdoor World, outside which stood what we in the UK would call speed boats and cruisers. We made our way into Festiva...
Viewed 1540 times since 1 September 2008.
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Overview Of Islands of Adventure
Twinned with Universal Studios, the Island of Adventures is my favourite Orlando theme park. The recent addition of the Harry Potter Wizarding World has cemented its' popularity in my child-like mind. In the world before Harry, the Islands ha...
Viewed 533 times since 23 December 2010.
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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 733 times since 1 January 2010.
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Passe-a-Grille Beach, St Petes
One of our favourite places to visit in Florida is Passe-a-Grille beach at St Petersburg. We take a drive over and spend the day there where they have being laid back down to an art. It is worth waiting for the spectacular sunset, so make sure you ha...
Viewed 684 times since 31 December 2010.
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Pay a visit to Disney West Side.
Located next door to Disney Marketplace, West Side offers a great mix of shopping, places to eat and entertainment. At one end of this area of Downtown Disney is the fabulous Cirque du Soleil big top. It is the permanent home to La Nouba, a b...
Viewed 1380 times since 1 September 2008.
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Disney Pin Trading
One of the things which has taken off in Disney is Pin Trading. If you’ve visited Walt Disney World in the last few years, you’ve probably noticed people, including Cast Members wearing large numbers of pins. Did you know that trading thes...
Viewed 1794 times since 1 September 2008.
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Pirates and Buried Treasure
So is there truth in the myths and legends of pirates and buried treasure on the Cape Haze peninsular, if it is true will you be the lucky one to find it. Up to the early 1900’s Florida was in the main a wilderness including many parts of the...
Viewed 1331 times since 6 November 2008.
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Pixie Hollow at EPCOT
Pixie Hollow at EPCOT
When Disney decided to close down the Toon Town area of the Magic Kingdom to create a whole new expanded Fantasyland area they needed to evict a number of popular features. One of those was the Pixie Hollow meet and g...
Viewed 181 times since 8 March 2012.
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Planet Hollywood at Downtown Disney
Planet Hollywood makes its impact on the skyline at Downtown Disney west side, and is even more spectacular when viewed at night. It is an amazing building looks like a massive bright blue globe, sitting in a lake, with lights beaming out around to d...
Viewed 1805 times since 1 September 2008.
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Pleasure Island - the story
For the time being, Pleasure Island is a shadow of its former self. It was in June of 2008 that Walt Disney World Resort announced that Pleasure Island would change dramatically, with the closing down of all its night clubs and comedy clubs in Septem...
Viewed 1205 times since 11 October 2010.
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Poseidon’s Fury At Universal IOA
As you wind your way around the Islands of Adventure at Universal Studios you will come across a hidden gem ( tucked away behind the talking tree that squirts water over everyone) is Poseidon’s Temple
This is a very impressive looking setting lo...
Viewed 149 times since 23 December 2011.
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The Rain Forest Cafe - Orlando
“Your adventure is about to begin” is how you are welcomed to the Rain Forest café and it’s true. Visiting Rainforest Cafe is unlike any other dining experience. Your adventure begins as soon as you check in. However be warn that at popular...
Viewed 2244 times since 1 September 2008.
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Red Lobster revisited
This restaurant is still top of our list of must visit places to eat. The menu is mainly seafood as the name suggests, but steaks and chicken as available as well. The lobster, shrimp, crab legs and scallops are wonderful and the service is always go...
Viewed 1067 times since 19 June 2009.
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Renting a Vacation Home Explained, To Americans, Part III
Let’s talk about destinations outside Disney, first non-Park ones. There’s the usual assortment of chain restaurants. Actually, more than the usual assortment. Orlando is considered a “test-market” for many restaurants because they get customers from...
Viewed 1632 times since 1 September 2008.
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Restaurant Row Part 1
Restaurant Row is located in an area of Orlando called Dr Phillips and is just off International Drive. It is home to a great selection of restaurants and has more upscale restaurants than the traditional tourist areas of Orlando. Although some disce...
Viewed 979 times since 9 February 2010.
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Restaurant Row Part 2
Bonefish Grill is located on Sand Lake Road near Barnes and Noble book store. This is a lively location and offers good value for an upscale restaurant. The original restaurant opened in St Petersburg in Florida back in January 2000 and since then th...
Viewed 889 times since 9 February 2010.
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Restaurant Row Part 3
MoonFish Restaurant has a very enticing entrance with its fake waterfall and is a Seafood restaurant with an Asian themed accent. It is located on Sand Lake Road in The Fountains Plaza at Bay Hill on the east end. It is part of the Talk of Th...
Viewed 840 times since 9 February 2010.
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Restaurants at The Loop
While Orlando’s newest open air shopping complex is now open some of us look forward to that shopping break when you can have a coffee and snack or maybe a larger meal at the end of the day. The Loop located at the intersection of John Young Parkw...
Viewed 1734 times since 1 September 2008.
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Review of Blue Horizons at SeaWorld
If you have not visited SeaWorld in Orlando for some time you may be surprised to discover that the Whale and Dolphin Show has been completely revamped. Even though the original show was excellent, you will not be disappointed with the new attraction...
Viewed 904 times since 23 September 2010.
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Ricky Ts Bar and Restaurants
If you ever go to the St Petes/ Treasure Island Gulf Coast area Ricky Ts Bars and Restaurant are worth a visit. Ricky Ts in Treasure Island is located on Gulf Boulevard (opposite the Bilmar Beach Resort) which is the coast road. It is probabl...
Viewed 798 times since 1 October 2010.
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Ride Guide – Expidition Everest
This is the newest mountain that Disney has added two Disneyworld and, if it were real, would in fact be the second highest peak in Florida!
The roller coaster has some really unique features about it and consistent with the other major D...
Viewed 646 times since 27 July 2011.
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Ride Restrictions for Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure – updated October 2010
Every ride and attraction within these two theme parks has a sign at the entrance that lists the height requirements for the ride and also warnings about certain medical conditions Children under 48' (1. 22 meters) must be accompanied by an a...
Viewed 1174 times since 17 October 2010.
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Rides for Small Boys in The Magic Kingdom - Part 1
At first sight some of the more cynical small boys take one look at Cinderella’s Castle and let out an audible groan, “Aw it’s just for soppy girls”. So where to go to appease them. First, head to the left of the castle and go straight to Adv...
Viewed 373 times since 22 December 2010.
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Rides for Small Boys in The Magic Kingdom - Part 2
The Liberty Square Steam Ship is an old fashioned paddle steamer and all the fixtures and fitting are faithfully reproduced for every one to explore and look at. From the announcement of “All aboard” to the sound of the crew making ready to cast away...
Viewed 349 times since 22 December 2010.
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Rip Ride Rockit
Universal has a new roller coaster ride called Rip Ride Rockit, which had a soft opening while we were in Florida in August 2009, but on our August trips to Universal, either the ride was closed, or the queues were two hours plus long, and we did not...
Viewed 844 times since 29 December 2009.
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Robbie's Marina - feed the tarpon
During our recent stay in Florida we decided to spend a few days away from our villa and drive down to the Keys. We stayed overnight in Key Largo - at a small community of town homes, overlooking the ocean. It was an ideal break in the journe...
Viewed 716 times since 29 September 2009.
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Roller Coaster History
Always subjective I know, but Florida must surely be one the world locations known for its fun attractions and superb roller coasters. The roller coaster is built to allow us to experience a few minutes of thrill and to allow us to simply forget ever...
Viewed 744 times since 21 February 2010.
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Rollercoasters in Florida
When you go to holiday in Florida one of the main attractions must be the theme parks and all the great attractions on offer. When I first visited Florida many years ago we were a little overwhelmed with all the attractions and the size of some of th...
Viewed 1519 times since 1 September 2008.
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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 1096 times since 7 January 2011.
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Romano’s Macaroni Grill
We have often driven past various Macaroni Grill restaurants on our way to, or from shopping trips in Florida but had never got around to stopping to see what any of them were like. We usually opt for Olive Garden if we fancy Italian which I...
Viewed 1334 times since 1 September 2008.
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The Rose & Crown Pub - Epcot
One of our favorite places to visit while in Orlando is Epcot and especially The Rose & Crown Pub in England around the World Showcase Lagoon. One of the most popular places to eat around the lagoon it is advised to pre book on arrival in Epcot o...
Viewed 1283 times since 1 September 2008.
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Sandy Ridge
Sandy Ridge is a new community located near the prestigious Championsgate and only 10 minutes from the heart of Disney. The community is around 30 minutes from Orlando International airport and around 1 hour from Sanford airport. To visit Disney and ...
Viewed 4293 times since 1 September 2008.
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Sandy Ridge community - Orlando Florida
Sandy Ridge is a prestigious community located near to Championsgate and Reunion Resort area of Orlando. The community is made up of around 200 family homes intermingled with large conservation woodland. The area is an ideal base to locate yourself i...
Viewed 1567 times since 7 January 2009.
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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 515 times since 8 February 2011.
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Santa Fe Restaurants
What can I say about the Santa Fe chain. Well, fine dining it aint! But. If you want perfect steaks cooked exactly as you want them, then you will never need to go any where else.
I am lucky enough to have a Santa Fe just a mile away from...
Viewed 317 times since 4 December 2011.
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Santa Fe Restuarant
I have always been one of those people who have said, ‘I will try anything once but may not try it again. Far too many are prejudiced just because they have heard from someone that someone else did not like it. We arrived in Florida last week...
Viewed 894 times since 25 November 2009.
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Scenic boat tour Winter Park
Close to the attractions is the suburb of Winter Park, a little known town with its own scenic boat tour. Located on Lake Osceola, this is ideal for a quiet, inexpensive day out, or a leisurely alternative for those who want a day of from the thrill ...
Viewed 724 times since 8 February 2011.
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Sci-Fi Dine-in Theater
Having a meal at the Sci-Fi Diner is probably one of the most original dining experiences we have ever had in a Walt Disney World restaurant. The Sci-Fi Dine-in Theater is located in Disney’s Hollywood Studios and guests are seated in miniature, six ...
Viewed 1400 times since 10 April 2009.
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Sea World
When looking to book tickets for your stay in Orlando you tend to spend a long time working out which parks to visit to help you choose what to do during your time in Orlando. For me Sea World has always been a great day out and a definite must for a...
Viewed 866 times since 24 November 2009.
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Sea World 2005
I love Sea World! Although I was a bit disappointed with the Dolphin show last time around and the fact that the Bayside Stadium had been lying idle for a few years, my wife and I decided to buy Annual Passes. A no-brainer really. Single day tickets ...
Viewed 1616 times since 1 September 2008.
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Sea World 2011
Sea World was the first theme park that we ever visited but that was 6 years ago and another visit was long overdue. Sadly we are getting older and the legs are not what they were so one of the advantages of Sea World is that you sit down while you a...
Viewed 162 times since 30 December 2011.
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Sea World Revisited
We have made many visits to Sea World, but it had been awhile. I hadn’t realized how long until my youngest (he’s 12) made the comment recently that he didn’t remember ever going to Sea World! Wow – I hadn’t realized it had been that long. So, we ret...
Viewed 1421 times since 1 September 2008.
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Seasons 52- fewer calories
If you are looking for a restaurant in the Orlando area, away from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks, I can highly recommend Season 52 on Sand Lake Road. Less than twenty minutes from Walt Disney World this restaurant offers sophistication, a ...
Viewed 845 times since 8 December 2009.
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Seasons 52 - Orlando
7700 Sand Lake Road, Orlando , less than 5 minutes from International Drive and junction 74a of the I4. Reservations are welcomed but not required 407 354 5212 Open nightly for dinner. Located in the Dr Phillips area of...
Viewed 1693 times since 1 September 2008.
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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 522 times since 15 January 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 765 times since 22 October 2009.
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See the alligators – without going all the way to the Everglades
If you would like to see alligators in their own habitat then a trip to the Everglades is well worth while. The trouble is they are about 300 miles away from Orlando. So what is the alternative? Go for a day trip to Gatorland Zoo right in the heart o...
Viewed 697 times since 2 February 2011.
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Segway Tour
We have always wanted to try a Segway, but until now thought that Segway tours were only available at Disney’s Epcot theme park. This had previously ruled it out for our family, as the minimum age to sign up for the tour was 16 and both our kids are ...
Viewed 869 times since 2 January 2010.
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Share a Dream Come True Parade
The Share a Dream Come True Parade takes place every afternoon at 3pm in Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. The parade winds its way from Frontierland into Liberty Square, past Cinderella’s Castle along Main Street and then into Main Street USA itsel...
Viewed 1614 times since 1 September 2008.
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Sheikra – Busch Gardens
One of our favourite rides in Busch Gardens over in Tampa is Sheikra. Sheikra is a vertical drop roller coaster located in the Stanleyville section of the park, The name is taken from a Shikra, an African hawk that dives straight down for its prey. T...
Viewed 1421 times since 28 March 2009.
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Shopping Heaven
The Mall at Millenia is my idea of shopping heaven. It is two floors of the most beautiful shops you have ever seen outside of Paris or Bond Street. Shops that have names that you only usually read about in glossy magazines; Gucci, Jimmy Choo, Chanel...
Viewed 201 times since 8 November 2011.
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Guide to the Shops at Orlando International Airport
We love visiting Orlando International Airport, which is one of the finest in the world. It ranks 4th in the US and 1st in Florida, and has an expanding shopping facility of high-end shops to suit all tastes. The shops are located in the East and ...
Viewed 3647 times since 1 September 2008.
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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 869 times since 31 December 2009.
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Shuttle – Last Few Launches
As homeowners we are often asked where to go for the best Shuttle Launch view. This is one of the most exciting, awesome sights you can see whilst visiting Florida. The memory of such power will stay with you for a very, very long time. If you see a ...
Viewed 940 times since 20 February 2010.
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Getting the Shuttle to the Launch Pad
Ever wondered how NASA got those tall, thin, towering rockets or the infamous space shuttle up on the launch pad? It’s not quite done like Thunderbirds! There are no sliding floors or vehicles being raised up level with the ground to lift off. NASA a...
Viewed 1191 times since 31 October 2008.
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Snook Haven, Venice
For visitors to the Gulf Coast, something really unique is a visit to Snook Haven which really is a trip back into ‘old’ Florida. Although the official address is Venice, it is only a few minutes from junction 191 on the I-75 and only 20 minutes driv...
Viewed 806 times since 4 June 2011.
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Snowing Nightly at Celebration
I know we don’t go to Florida for snow but during December and early January it “snows” nightly in Celebration whatever the weather. Market Street closes during the afternoon and in early evening preparations start as workers lay a white foam...
Viewed 748 times since 28 December 2009.
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Softball and Baseball Practice Batting Cages – Near the Loop
With us having two boys, aged 12 and 8, we are always looking for new and fun things to do whilst in Florida. We read on the forums that some people had tried out the Softball and Baseball Batting Practice Cages which are situated near the Loop and t...
Viewed 2405 times since 1 September 2008.
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Spectromagic
Just when you thought a Disney parade was fantastic the Spectromagic parade only makes it 100% better. Do you remember as a child how you felt on Christmas Eve, waiting in anticipation to see what Santa had brought? Do you remember believing ...
Viewed 1639 times since 1 September 2008.
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The Amazing Adventures of Spiderman at Universal Studios
The Amazing Adventure of Spiderman can be found in Marvel Super Hero Island at Universal’s Islands of Adventure. This 3-D ride is actually the first attraction in the history of theme parks to combine moving vehicles with specially filmed 3-D action....
Viewed 1550 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 1349 times since 1 September 2008.
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St Armands Circle – Gulf Coast Florida
As the sun sets on the St Armands Circle, the tinkling sounds of a wooden upright piano resonate thru the air, it is played by Ed Williams. Ed has been playing to the locals and tourists for the past 22 years and has become part and parcel of this qu...
Viewed 1343 times since 1 September 2008.
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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 1317 times since 7 January 2010.
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Sunset Lakes
Sunset Lakes is a small, exclusive lakeside community, ideally situated in the Formosa area of Kissimmee, just off the US192, and only 4 miles to Disney via an easy shortcut which will take you to the gates of Animal Kingdom in less than 10 minutes. ...
Viewed 1659 times since 1 September 2008.
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Taking Children to Disney's Epcot
It was named Epcot (Experimental Prototype Community Of Tomorrow) when it opened some 30 yrs ago but
don’t let people put you off re the kids – there is plenty for them to do.
Epcot is divided in Future World and World
Showcase. My chi...
Viewed 1091 times since 1 September 2008.
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Tampa Bay Rays at the Tropicana Field, Tampa
As a treat for the whole family, we booked tickets online to see the Tampa Bay Rays versus New York Yankees Baseball game at Easter this year. The first two home games of the season happily coincided with our trip to Florida. The first game was a sel...
Viewed 1014 times since 2 June 2009.
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Tampa International Airport
Tampa International Airport is located 6km west of the business district of Tampa. Close by are numerous hotels and two shopping malls, the International Plaza and Bay Street. It is a modern airport designed with a central hub from where passengers a...
Viewed 845 times since 16 October 2010.
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Teppanyaki Dining Room – World Showcase Epcot
We first came across this restaurant in 2003 on our first trip to Florida. Situated in Japan at the World Showcase at Epcot, this restaurant is probably one on the best Disney has to offer. Being very popular you may struggle to book on the d...
Viewed 2033 times since 1 September 2008.
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TERMINATOR 3-D: Universal Studios
Terminator 2: 3-D ride is located in Universal Studios, Orlando Florida. The ride is based on the time between T2 and T3 films, where John Connor has to try and defeat Cyberdine Systems and stop the end of the World. The ride is a mix of 3-D ...
Viewed 1644 times since 1 September 2008.
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Test Track at Epcot
This is one of the more recent additions to Disney well when I say recent I mean in the last 5 years! Anyway this has to be one of everyone’s favourite rides and judging by the queue it certainly is. Be aware though that if it rains sufficien...
Viewed 1429 times since 1 September 2008.
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TEXAS DE BRASIL CHURRASCARRIA
We like to try out new restaurants which are often recommended by our guests, after all that' s what holidays are about and in Orlando you are spoilt for choice. You can find out all about it if you visit the website, there were two very close togeth...
Viewed 751 times since 9 October 2010.
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The Apollo/Saturn V Visitors Centre - Kennedy Space Centre, Florida
Millions of people held their breath back on the 19th July 1969 as Neil Armstrong searched for a safe place to land the lunar module on the moon. “The Eagle has landed” crackled through the radio to earth. Many back on earth gasped at the sheer thoug...
Viewed 1382 times since 1 September 2008.
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The Cape Haze Peninsula
This small peninsular is often referred too as Florida's best kept secret. To quote the locals: “Just another day in paradise” A sentiment I heartily agree with; it is located between Sarasota to the north & Fort Myer's to ...
Viewed 1300 times since 1 September 2008.
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The Cherry Pocket
If you want a complete change from the chain and themed restaurants, fancy a taste of the real Florida and would prefer to mix with Floridians rather than tourists then a trip to the Cherry Pocket, on Lake Pierce, might be ideal for you. It is certai...
Viewed 1444 times since 20 December 2008.
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The Great Movie Ride
Every time we visit Hollywood Studios we seem to miss some of the attractions that are furthest away from the entrance mainly because we visit so many of the attractions as we walk around but often missing some of the ones tucked away at the back ...
Viewed 1292 times since 1 September 2008.
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THE GREEN ANOLE
Leapin’ Lizards! Have you ever seen something scurry over your pool cage ? Well it could well be a Green Anole - a little lizard. (pronounced: uh’ no-lee) one of Florida’ s true native lizards. You have no doubt seen them cl...
Viewed 1972 times since 26 November 2008.
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The Hall of Presidents, Magic Kingdom.
It was on June 28th, 2009 that “The Hall of Presidents” was reopened, following a major revamp. Sited in a stunning replica colonial building in Liberty Square at Magic Kingdom, you cannot miss this attraction. Outside the attraction there is a new s...
Viewed 680 times since 31 December 2009.
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The Hard Rock Cafe
The Hard Rock Café in Orlando is right between right between Universal Studios Orlando and Islands of Adventure and it’s an excellent place to go for a nice cool rest whilst eating. Take a look around at the pop memorabilia on the walls, main...
Viewed 1573 times since 1 September 2008.
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The Haunted Mansion - Magic Kingdom
This ride is reminiscent of the old fashioned “Ghost Train” rides I used to frequent during my youth but much, much more sophisticated. As you wait in line, just before you enter the mansion, read the amusing inscriptions on the headstones in...
Viewed 1417 times since 1 September 2008.
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The History of The Pirates of The Caribbean
Yo ho, yo ho, a pirates life for me. Who hasn’t sung along to this on the Pirates of the Caribbean ride in the Magic Kingdom at Disney World. This famous ride was first introduced at Disney land in California in the early sixties and became the most ...
Viewed 500 times since 22 December 2010.
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The International Mall, Tampa
In June we visited our villa, and when we had to move out for the arrival of our next guests we decided to spend a couple of days in Tampa, just down the I-4.
We were fortunate to find a wonderful mall nearby, the large, upscale Internati...
Viewed 646 times since 1 February 2011.
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The Kona Café at the Polynesian Resort Hotel
This is a restaurant that we often eat in as the range of food on offer is excellent. I suspect that many overlook it on their first or even second visit to the hotel. The Kona Cafe is located on the second floor of the hotel, to the left as you ente...
Viewed 177 times since 1 March 2012.
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The Liberty Tree
Standing just across the street from the Hall of Presidents, in Magic Kingdom, is the Liberty Tree. I am sure you cannot help but have noticed it, with its wide spreading branches giving welcome shade from the heat of the sun. But have you ever thoug...
Viewed 789 times since 6 January 2010.
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The Loop shopping complex
The Loop is Orlando’s newest open air shopping complex and it's now almost fully open with the final few shops just completing their fitting. The 440,000- square foot retail centre recently opened its doors to shoppers just before Christmas 2005 givi...
Viewed 2339 times since 1 September 2008.
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The Magic Kingdom Fantasy Land
The Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World is the most famous and the most popular of all the parks. It is split up into five different sections, Fantasy Land, Adventure Land, Future Land and Frontier Land. I do apologise in advance if any of the rides I m...
Viewed 951 times since 17 October 2010.
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The Magic of Disney
The Magic of Disney When people ask me what is so special about Walt Disney World, the answer is very simple. It’s the magic. When you park your car, for example, in the car park at Disney World, you don’t park in “Car Park A”, row 31,...
Viewed 545 times since 11 December 2010.
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The New Dali Museum
The New Dali Museum
The new Dali museum in St Petersburg opened at the beginning of 2011 so when we visited during the Christmas holidays that same year we should have expected exactly what we encountered…. lines longer than those for Soar...
Viewed 154 times since 15 March 2012.
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The new Town Center at Cagan's Crossing
When we visit our villa in Orlando we always enjoy a trip to Town Center at Cagan’s Crossing, which is two minutes away, just opposite the fantastic SuperWarlmart on Highway 27, north of the junction with the 192. This pretty development is continuin...
Viewed 1303 times since 2 January 2010.
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The Osborne Lights
If you go to Orlando at Christmas there are many “must do’s”. One of these is the Disney Hollywood Studios to see the snowy streets hosting the Osborne Lights. (Note the spelling – it is not Osbourne as in Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne). A friend travelli...
Viewed 703 times since 26 November 2010.
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The Panhandle
The Panhandle
We made our first trip to the Panhandle this winter (January 2012) and stayed in a small townhome at Navarre Beach. It is usually about 10 degrees cooler there than in Orlando. Although we found this area ideal for a base, if...
Viewed 95 times since 23 March 2012.
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The Sand Dollar
I had never seen or heard of a sand dollar until we visited Treasure Island Beach, on one of our trips to our villa in Florida. It had been a stormy night, and people were walking up and down the beach searching for something. I couldn’t resist askin...
Viewed 1469 times since 1 September 2008.
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The T-Rex Restaurant building at Downtown Disney
The T-Rex Restaurant building at Downtown Disney
A few years ago at Downtown Disney a part of the parking area was removed to create the new T-Rex restaurant. The part that was removed was the old shaded garden between what was McDonald’s ...
Viewed 135 times since 7 March 2012.
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The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror - Hollywood Studios
“The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror” is one of my favourite rides in Walt Disney World’s Hollywood Studios. It is a superb thrill ride, with a simulated freefall, and what makes it extra special is that it is never the same ride twice. The sto...
Viewed 1479 times since 10 April 2009.
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The Villages Florida
Having visited the town of Celebration on our holidays to Orlando and always enjoyed the laid back feel of the place we were looking for somewhere similar when we happened to hear about The Villages Florida. So on our very next holiday we made plans ...
Viewed 543 times since 6 January 2011.
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The Villages Golf Carts
We were looking for somewhere new to spend the late afternoon on what had been, and still was, a glorious Florida spring day. We didn’t want to drive too far from our base on US27 near Clermont but as we had already been to Bok Gardens, Mount Dora an...
Viewed 961 times since 7 January 2011.
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The Wave - Contemporary Hotel
The Wave - Contemporary Hotel This recently refurbished restaurant in the Contemporary Hotel at Disney is situated on the very ground floor, below the main mezzanine floor. We booked a table for 9pm as, being Christmas it was busy, and...
Viewed 960 times since 19 April 2010.
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The Wizarding world of Harry Potter
The Wizarding world of Harry Potter We were lucky enough to be offered the chance to go to universal studio this week on Monday for a preview of the new attraction of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter As you walk through the archway t...
Viewed 935 times since 10 June 2010.
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The World Showcase at Epcot
This is a great way to spend several hours and is always worth a visit. It can be enjoyed by people of any age and is great for a family day out. The world showcase is in the Disney Epcot Park, and is built in a huge circle, surrounding the W...
Viewed 1244 times since 1 September 2008.
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Things to do if it rains in Orlando
What to do on a rainy day in Orlando? A good question. If it is in the height of the summer then you will probably get a short sharp shower at some time in the day. As long as you remember to bring a shower mac (or you can buy ponchos in all the them...
Viewed 548 times since 13 September 2011.
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Tips for Theme Parks
There are quite a few tips that will help you get the best out of each of the theme parks. Here are just a few that I know of (I’m sure other people will know even more). When you are booking your tickets, book and pay for them in advance on ...
Viewed 1107 times since 21 January 2010.
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Toon Lagoon at Islands of Adventure
At Islands of Adventures Toon Lagoon, there are more than 150 cartoon characters that inhabit this colourful part of the park. As you stroll down Comic Strip Lane you will see Betty Boop, Hagar the Horrible and Krazy Kat to name just a few of the fam...
Viewed 545 times since 17 January 2011.
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Toon Lagoon at Universal studios
Toon Lagoon! Well this is an area dominated by water rides I think that there is a clue in the name, another clue would be the signs that are dotted around the area saying ' You WILL get Wet! ! ' When you venture into the Toon Lagoon area you...
Viewed 826 times since 24 December 2009.
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Toon Lagoon at Universals IOA
Toon Lagoon is a great area within the islands of adventure which has a couple of really fantastic water rides such as Popeye and Blutos “Bilge Rat Barges” and Dudley Doo Rights ” Rip Saw Falls”
Popeye and Blutos Bilge Rat Barges is a absolu...
Viewed 154 times since 23 December 2011.
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Top 10 things to do in Orlando for free!…….Part II
…………and following on from our first article, listing ten of the “Top Things to do in Orlando for Free”, here are the final five. Lake Eola Park Situated in Downtown Orlando Lake Eola Park is a popular destination for families. F...
Viewed 1101 times since 1 August 2009.
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Top Rollercoaster and Rides - Florida
Since I last wrote my guide to the Rollercoasters and rides of Florida (back in 2005) there has been a lot of development and the inclusion of some World beating rollercoasters. What really impresses me with Florida is the way they re-invest a lot of...
Viewed 943 times since 14 December 2010.
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Toy Story Mania at Hollywood Studios – Part One
Toy Story Mania is Disney’s Hollywood Studios newest attraction and one that should definitely be on your ‘to do list’ when visiting the park. As you walk into the building, which houses the Toy Story Mania ride, you are reduced to toy size. ...
Viewed 539 times since 19 September 2010.
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Toy Story Mania at Hollywood Studios – Part Two
……. continuing on from my first article entitled ‘Toy Story Mania – Part One’ The first game is the Pie Throw Practice . This is the practice round in which you will have to splat the targets with pies (virtual pies of course, ima...
Viewed 482 times since 19 September 2010.
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Try shopping at Kohls!
Kohls is a store that many visitors to Florida don' t discover! It' s a department store - selling all sorts of goodies - at bargain prices! There is a Kohls store along the Highway 27 close to Clermont. Travel towards Clermont (from the dire...
Viewed 1177 times since 21 December 2009.
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Twin Centre Holiday
Have you ever been to Orlando and wondered what it would be like to do a twin centre holiday. Being located where it is you could not be better placed to visit other areas of Florida and maybe even another country altogether. Having been to the Orlan...
Viewed 2894 times since 1 September 2008.
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Typhoon Lagoon
Typhoon Lagoon is part of the Walt Disney World theme parks and can be included on your 5, 7 or 10 day theme park tickets. We visited Typhoon lagoon back In 2007 and must say we were very impressed with the general overall feel of the place. Normally...
Viewed 1734 times since 2 July 2009.
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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 187 times since 9 October 2011.
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Ultimate Roller Coasters
Our kids have spent many holidays in Florida so I guess it’s not a great surprise to us that they’re theme park junkies and for them the ultimate thrill is to be found on the many roller coasters on offer. Many people think that the ultimate roller c...
Viewed 708 times since 5 February 2010.
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Universal City Walk
Situated at the approach to the Universal Parks this is a great place that is really jumping in the evenings. You make your way from the car park, along the moving walkways, towards City Walk. There is a whole range of shops and restaurants aw...
Viewed 1567 times since 1 September 2008.
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Universal Citywalk (3)
Located just in between Universal and Universal Islands of adventure is Universal Citywalk. Situated around a large lake, Universal Citywalk is an ideal place to arrive and meet people, having many shops, restaurants and things to do. Many pe...
Viewed 1476 times since 1 September 2008.
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Universal’s Mardi Gras 2007
This year Universal are running their Mardi Gras extravaganza from the 2nd February – 14th April There are several ways to enjoy and join in the festivities… Firstly there are the concerts – these take place in the park. Feb 3rd...
Viewed 1368 times since 1 September 2008.
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Universal Studios
Having not been to Universal for well over 3 years now, I was pleasantly surprised that they have updated some of the park and included even more rides and attractions than before. Some of the new rides have replaced the older ones (King Kong), but s...
Viewed 1619 times since 1 September 2008.
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Universal Studios - City Walk
Universal City Walk is located at the entrance to Universal and Universal Island of Adventure. The area is made up of many restaurants, shops, clubs and a large cinema complex. To access Universal City walk is free apart from the car parking ...
Viewed 2693 times since 1 September 2008.
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Universal Studios, a Dad's view
The alternative to the Disney parks are the excellent Universal Studios 2 parks, the Universal Studios park is one of my favourites because it has in my view more grown up rides than some of the Disney parks. The Universal Studios Park was the...
Viewed 1187 times since 1 September 2008.
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Universal Studios for Little Kids
Whilst Disney is brilliant for little kids Universal Studios tends to cater more to the older kids and teens, however if you are taking younger ones to Universal Studios don’t despair there is still plenty to keep them amused you just need to do a li...
Viewed 1359 times since 27 July 2009.
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Unusual things to see in Orlando
Apart from all the usual holiday attractions on offer in Orlando there are some amazing sights which will have you holding your breath in awe.
Some of the most spectacular are at Sea World in the Shark Encounter. Apart from sharks there are...
Viewed 647 times since 30 January 2011.
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Updated Height Restrictions for Rides
Rides with height restrictions – Disney and Universal. Magic Kingdom Big Thunder Mountain Railroad - guests must be over 40 inches or 102cm Barnstormer - guests must be over 35 inches or 89cm Space Moun...
Viewed 8557 times since 1 September 2008.
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Vero Beach - A Great Day Out
In Vero Beach, among the elegant subdivisions and hotels that have arisen over the years you can still find traces of the old Florida.
Most obvious of these are the two beachfront buildings erected by Vero Beach resident Waldo Sexton. Whe...
Viewed 1454 times since 1 September 2008.
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Victoria and Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Hotel- Part I
If you are celebrating a special event during your holiday in Orlando, or want to really treat yourself to an occasion, which you will never forget, you won’t go wrong if you make a reservation at Walt Disney’s Grand Floridian’s ultra posh restaurant...
Viewed 834 times since 1 August 2009.
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Victoria and Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Hotel - Part II
continued Our third course was the Long Island Duck with Roasted Chiogga Beets and Turnip Kraut. This was one of my favourites. The flavours erupted in my mouth and as all the portions are quite small they can leave you wanting more. Ho...
Viewed 874 times since 1 August 2009.
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Virgin Premium Economy
If you have travelled across the Atlantic and hate the long flight of 10 hours in a cramped seat with little or no room to move then upgrading to Virgin Atlantic Premium economy may be the way forward for you. Premium Economy was introduced by...
Viewed 2599 times since 1 September 2008.
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Visit The Beautiful Floridian Keys
I’ve always wanted to visit The Florida Keys – I’d heard so much about Key West and these islands that stretch out towards Cuba, often with views of the sea from both sides of your vehicle. To break up our journey we flew into Miami and staye...
Viewed 653 times since 7 February 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 767 times since 16 October 2010.
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Fit in a visit to Celebration
Celebration is a small town situated just off the Highway 192, very close to the junction with the 417 and is well worth a visit. It may be an area that you will pass almost daily as you travel between your holiday villa and the parks. It is ...
Viewed 1421 times since 1 September 2008.
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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 864 times since 22 December 2009.
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Voyage of the Little Mermaid
This seventeen minute, elaborate stage show is sure to delight both adults and children alike. The Voyage of the Little Mermaid premiered on January 7, 1992 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and runs continually throughout the day. Amazing puppetry, wat...
Viewed 792 times since 1 August 2009.
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WALT DISNEY WORLD MONORAIL
If you are anything like most visitors to Orlando, you will ride the Walt Disney World monorails without thinking too much about them. Certainly, alongside Disney’s fleet of buses, they are one of the workhorses of the parks, and are definitely an in...
Viewed 1506 times since 7 July 2009.
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WALTER ELIAS DISNEY – PART 2
CARTOONS, DREAMS AND MICKEY MOUSE “All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them. ” Walt Disney arrived in Hollywood at the age of 22. He had a vision and a dream and he was determined to pursue them. With an injec...
Viewed 1017 times since 17 February 2009.
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Watching the parades, at Walt Disney world.
An interesting part of visiting a Disney park is making time to watch a parade. Times vary but there are usually 2 parades daily, you have to look on your guide map (which is free) as you enter your chosen park for the times of the parade. We...
Viewed 1046 times since 12 February 2009.
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Waterfront Park Historic Kissimmee
As you pass under the arch for Historic Kissimmee you leave the tourist world behind and enter a Historic Town which was once a trading post on the shore of Lake Tohopekaliga, then known as Allendale. In 1883, 33 citizens voted to call it Kissimmee C...
Viewed 1955 times since 1 September 2008.
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Walt Disney World – Tips - Hollywood Studios
Hollywood Studios is one of the smaller parks and we always like to do it first as it’s a great way to gear you up for really long days at the others. Don't forget the Backlot Tour featuring flash floods, fire and plenty of behi...
Viewed 1944 times since 1 September 2008.
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Welcome Back Captain EO
As we have been going to Walt Disney World for over thirty years now, we have seen many changes. We saw the first building of the globe at Epcot and wondered what on earth it was. It was just this huge silver dome in a very deep hole surrounded by fo...
Viewed 457 times since 8 January 2011.
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Wet N Wild @ Christmas
Doesn’t sound like the normal thing to do on a Florida Festive Period Vacation, but 2006 was a great year weather wise with temperatures higher than the normal for this time of year, so getting the bathing costumes out and hitting the Water Slides of...
Viewed 1395 times since 1 September 2008.
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What’s new at Disney World Part 2
What’s new at Disney World Part 2
An all new Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs ride will replace the existing original ride, which I feel was a bit too scary for the little ones it was intended for as it takes place in the dark nearly all of...
Viewed 324 times since 22 November 2011.
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What’s new in Disneyworld for 2012? Part 1
Walt Disney World is in the middle of a huge re-development program and most of it will be done by summer 2012.
Downtown Disney, a free area for people to wander around to shop and dine, will not be finished for a while longer though. The...
Viewed 813 times since 22 November 2011.
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What to do at City Walk
City Walk at Universal is a fabulous place to do some shopping and having older teenagers we often find that they want to spend more time in the parks than us, so while they’re getting their fix of the high speed roller coasters, shows and attraction...
Viewed 1726 times since 1 September 2008.
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What to expect of your Orlando holiday.
For first time travellers to Orlando who want to visit Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Sea World and all the other attractions, it may be a completely unknown experience.
For instance, I am often asked by guests wishing to book my vil...
Viewed 786 times since 20 January 2011.
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When to visit Florida
Choosing when to visit Florida is one of the main decisions you will make when planning your trip. Often people are tied to the school holiday periods, but if you can travel out of peak dates you really can experience so much more. Whether you can tr...
Viewed 734 times since 27 November 2009.
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which month for the best weather?
People often ask me when the best time of Year is to visit Florida. Due to the perfect weather and climate throughout the Year, Florida is one of the Worlds best all Year round destination. Florida has on average over 280 days of sunshine per Year an...
Viewed 1821 times since 13 December 2010.
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Which park tickets to buy
When visiting Orlando more than likely you are going to visit the theme parks. With so many parks to visit there can often be confusion on what park tickets you are going to need. You can purchase park tickets from many places, the Internet, ...
Viewed 2313 times since 1 September 2008.
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Whispering Canyon Restaurant – Wilderness Lodge
If you are looking for somewhere very different to eat – even whacky try The Whispering Canyon Restaurant at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. I don’t think I have ever eaten in a restaurant like it! It is not for those who want a quiet, intimate venue. Fun...
Viewed 1356 times since 1 September 2008.
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Why do we stay in a villa?
When we first visited Florida we booked a hotel for our stay mainly because we thought that was what you had to do. We had a fantastic holiday in a lovely hotel. The room was a reasonable size and there were two double beds one for hubby and me and o...
Viewed 600 times since 3 January 2011.
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Why I love Orlando
It is easy to answer that with two words. Theme Parks. But, Orlando has so much more. True it doesn’t have beaches, but if you just want to lie on beach all day and party all night, then you would go to Europe and save a fortune on air fares and car ...
Viewed 799 times since 28 July 2009.
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Wildlife in Florida - A Short Guide
Florida’s wildlife covers a huge spectrum, from birds and butterflies to panthers and alligators.
The most common birds include snowy egrets and ibis, which can often be seen wandering across your lawn in Florida, long necked herons a...
Viewed 653 times since 18 August 2009.
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Winter Park 1
If you want a change from the Parks give Winter Park a visit. To find Winter Park take I/4 north beyond downtown Orlando and take the ' Fairbanks Ave. ' exit ramp. Turn right onto Fairbanks Av. , and continue east until you reach the Park Ave. lights...
Viewed 586 times since 7 January 2010.
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Winter Park 2
You have now seen the Morse Museum and had a look round the town, the next thing to do is what Winter Park is renowned for. Drive or walk up Park Avenue and turn left down Morse Blvd. Keep going down Morse until you reach the end and park in one of t...
Viewed 661 times since 7 January 2010.
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Winter Park Orlando
Winter Park is an up-market area of Orlando and if you fancy a change of mood from the theme parks, are in the market for some serious, quality shopping, or if you just enjoy window shopping, or if you enjoy visiting museums and parks, then a visit t...
Viewed 1507 times since 1 September 2008.
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Wishes Nighttime Spectacular
‘Wishes’, which takes place almost every evening in Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, has to be one of, if not the most, amazing firework show in the whole world. The first time we watched it I was dazzled and amazed, the second time I was enthralle...
Viewed 1219 times since 31 May 2010.
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Wolfgang Puck Restaurants at Downtown Disney
Wolfgang Puck Restaurants at Downtown Disney
The Wolfgang Puck Restaurant in Downtown Disney is positioned between the AMC cinema and the lagoon. If you are planning on just going to the area for a meal then by pass all the earlier p...
Viewed 128 times since 11 March 2012.
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Xmas at Manny's Chophouse
Our latest trip to Manny’s Chophouse turned into a pre Xmas meal/celebratory Anniversary dinner for some close friends of ours. We were a party of ten, so were prepared for a bit of a wait for a table, especially as when we arrive at 7:30pm and there...
Viewed 1599 times since 1 September 2008.
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