Excellent, time to continue presenting the lovely Island of Mallorca as mentioned in previous blog. This time, we will looked more into detail in order to desmostrai that Mallorca is not only an Island of sea, sun and night life but an incredible Inland that offers a variety of activities to enjoy.
One of the major aspects that make Mallorca unique is without doubt his interior with amazing small villages. Starting with one of the most popular one, Valldemossa. It is a cool place and in the winter you get snow from time to time. It is well worth visiting this place, walk the streets and visit the museum.
Valldemossa lies 15km north of Palma situated North West coast of the island. It’s a pretty town surrounded by mountains though much of its charm is destroyed by the daily bus loads of visitors who arrive on coach trips to visit the genuine town.
In terms of food, Valldemossa has plenty eateries catering for the day trippers though little of note. One place worth a look even if only for the novelty of it is Costa Nord (Avgda Palma, 6). Heading a kilometer out of town you’ll come to a sign for Port de Valldemossa which takes you on a 6km drive of hairpin bends down to a little bay where you can have a seafood lunch at the Es Port restaurant. The wild sea is some sight down here on windy days
Another important thing to try is he ride from the harbor to the mountain village passes through olive and almond trees as the elevation increases from the coast. The village is quite charming, and the ancient monastery is well kept. In addition to the cells occupied by Chopin and Sand, the church and pharmacy are both interesting. Some of the drugs and potions in the pharmacy look much like they did a hundred or more years ago.
During next blog we will continue exploring other areas and attractions that this Island can offer to the visitors of Mallorca.
Having a few international friends, I often consider where I would recommend they travel to have a TRUE American experience. With the current economic situation, some of these off-the-beaten-path destinations are looking better than ever. Here’s proof that the Mid-West should no longer be called the ‘fly-over-states.’
Madison, Wisconsin:
A gorgeous college town of 200,000+ situated between 2 lakes. Imagine a white capitol building and 5 blocks from its 3 and 9 o’clock positions are lakes and at the 6 o’clock position is State Street: a pedestrian-only street with bohemian shops (and the Gap), local bars and international restaurants (E. African, Afghani, etc). These 10 blocks lead straight to the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus.
Experience America in Madison:
Go in the Fall for colorful leaves and the amazingly large farmers market around the capitol square every Saturday.
Get there in time for the Halloween bash (Saturday before the holiday). Voted the #1 Halloween party by Playboy several years, it’s not really a family-friendly event.
In the summer, the capitol square hosts Concert on the Square (free) every Wednesday night, bring a blanket, picnic and wine.
Check out the Kohl center for concerts and sporting events
Eat and Drink! Around the capitol is typically more upscale then on State Street.
State Street and Campus
i.The Memorial Union – that’s right, the student union. Sit on the famous Terrace and have a beer (you might have to have a student order for you from the Ratskeller as you need to be a member or student!)
ii.Himal Chuli – Great Nepalese food
iii.Chautra – Hole in the wall Himalayan food, don’t get scared off by the wild plants in the entrance.
iv.State Street Brats – so wisco! Have a brat and stay for the bar atmosphere. Be sure to try a ‘Spotted Cow,’ a great local brew.
This is the city I recommend all foreigners visit (over New York) if they really want to experience the America not found in movies. Stay a few nights in the downtown area and a few in one of the neighborhoods like Wrigleyville or Lakeside. I will only add 2 notes about downtown as the sites are quite well known: try it before Christmas; cold yes, but also beautiful and, second, music lovers check out: www.lollapalooza.com. Now, more on the neighborhoods:
Go to a Cubs game at Wrigley Field (Wrigleyville)
Before the game, have a few at one of the designated ‘Cubs bars’ near the stadium. (Wrigleyville)
Every neighborhood has unique, local bars and restaurants. Some worth mentioning: Sheffield’s just off Belmont for a drink, Orange for amazing brunch, Joey’s Brickhouse for a great burger (all in Lakeshore)
Go to the Weiner’s Circle late night (post bars), the busty lady behind the counter will verbally abuse you like its going out of style. (Lincoln Park)
The shopping is great down town, but check out the boutique stores tucked inside the neighborhoods.
Louisville & Lexington, Kentucky
Known as the blue grass state, Kentucky is rich in history, beauty and Southern hospitality. All of Kentucky can get behind a 2 things – horses and basketball (if you are in Louisville cheer for the Cardinals, in Lexington, you are a UK fan!). The two cities are only 1.5 hours away by car.
Lexington
Keeneland – this small but beautiful horse track is only open in April and October. Although all walks of life are in attendance, I suggest dressing up (no hat required) and bringing $2 for a bet and $4 for a drink. www.keeneland.com.
Afterwards head to Murray’s (www.murrays-merrick.com) for a drink on the patio and the food is great too (upscale southern food in an old Horse Manor). Go to Dudley’s downtown for brunch. www.dudleysrestaurant.com
Wineries – have lunch and a tasting at Chrisman Mill, then at night, head to Talon Winery for its Summer Concert Series (tickets in advance for dinner and a concert: 859-971-3214).
Bourbon! You can order a glass anywhere or tour the many distilleries such as Makers Mark. Dip your own bottle in the famous red wax.
Right outside of Lexington you can’t miss the Shaker Village.
Visit the Liquor Barn (I would live there if I could) the only thing to rival its selection of booze is the selection of amazing foods.
Louisville
The Kentucky Derby – start with Keeneland then finish with the Derby. Unless you are young and stupid (and drunk), don’t opt for the infield. Be sure to wear a hat and order a mint julep.
Don’t miss the Mohammed Ali Center, is interactive and really more about life and about a boxer. www.alicenter.org. There is also a Children’s museum in the area.
21c Museum Hotel – whether you stay here or just visit for an hour the art is too cool, and free. Visit the bathroom before you leave. www.21cmuseumhotel.com
Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory is a must for any sports fan. All these museums are within walking distance too each other too. www.sluggermuseum.org
Fourth Street Live – This is a street of bars and restaurants that is a lot of fun to eat during the day and drink during the night.
Before you leave this great state, be sure to ask someone what ‘corn hole’ is. Don’t worry, its not dirty. Your kids will even like it!
Traveling is all about your experiences, so whether you head off-the-beaten-path in Wisconsin, Illinois or Kentucky, you will be able to experience the beauty, culture, tradition . . . and various accents of the TRUE America.
i.Great Dane Pub- the best and most eclectic bar food and great beer! Get the beer sampler and sit in the outdoor beer garden. (www.greatdanepub.com)
ii.Restaurant Muramoto is a favorite – atypical Asian fusion with a very unassuming entrance.
iii.Marigold for breakfast or brunch. Café Continental is solid too.
iv.Harvest and L’Etoile are fine dining but worth it - the seasonal menus use local foods from local farms.
Everyone’s life can get a little hectic and things seem to pile up on us when we least expect it. We can not always plan a vacation for the times we need one the most. I found myself in this situation 2 months ago. I decided to escape right in my home town of Orlando. I took a long weekend at the Peabody and it felt like I was in a different country.
The hotel is absolutely gorgeous and the service is impeccable. They even had ducks inside the lobby. We ate dinner in the Capriccio grill and it was the best steak I ever had. Even the 24 B-Line Dinner has great food. I had buffalo for the first time, and the Sunday brunch is on point.
I even got my exercise in. It felt great to jump into their full size heated pool and get some laps done, then sit in the huge whirlpool and just relax.
If anyone is looking for a place to host their weekend getaway or a vacation The Peabody is the place to go!
The following is an insider tip on traveling through Germany’s history. I already stayed at this small castle hotel twice which stands out from the crowd of other similar hotels mainly because of its casual atmosphere in a yet sophisticated environment: Lütgenhof Castle in Dassow, close to the German shore at the Baltic Sea, an hour east of Hamburg.
So if you want to see more than the major German cities and willing to see the countryside and some historical sites but you are allergic to flocks of scuffling Japanese tourists in Neuschwanstein castle (think Cinderella Castle at Disney World) then this might be a less spectacular but more personal alternative. You can spend time on a quiet piece of land with a small river next to the building and a nature-sanctuary around it. You can go to rough beaches, other mansions and little castles, small villages or towns like Wismar with farmer’s markets, cafés, shops and old churches or to Lübeck with its picturesque Old Town which is a world heritage site.
Lütgenhof was built in 1839 and extended over the years in a neo-classical style by an aristocratic family. After WWII it made its way through the decades and became a children’s home then a school and then barracks for the boarder guards as it was in 1961 suddenly located directly on a borderline between East and West-Germany! Luckily the company Jägermeister bought it after the reunification of Germany and redeveloped and renovated with care.
Today it offers 23 rooms and suites equipped with no thrilling features (small simple TV, no internet access) but in a reserved and comfortable style: high quality materials, fine linen, fresh, bright, no frills.
You will see precious furniture with a slight modern accent in the public rooms without the typical baroque castle arrangements. This is a fact which in combination with the attentive but casual service helps to feel very comfortable – no matter if you drive up in Jaguar or on a touring bike.
There is a small gourmet restaurant in a hall with an impressive wooden coffered ceiling and a view over reed fields where you can enjoy fine dining. Guests interested in running or cycling will have the choice between countless tours and may complete the day in the hotel’s bio sauna or on the terrace with a local beer.
Altogether an excellent place to relax in a historic, natural, fine and comfortable surrounding, supported by grown up, professional and personal hotel service.
Experience an area where old world land and sea combine with some of premiere resort spots on earth. Hop on a Western Caribbean cruise line and let the journey begin. It’s easy to see why Western Caribbean cruises rank among travelers’ most popular cruising destinations. From swimming with sea turtles and stingrays in the Grand Cayman, walking among the ancient Mayan ruins and experiencing the Spanish influence on Mexico’s coast, or climbing the famous Dunn’s River Falls in Jamaica, it’s all in a day’s fun when you sail on any of our cheap Western Caribbean cruises.
Each port of call in this region offers rich a history and culture all it’s own. Last minute cruises will ensure that your 4 to 5 day Western Caribbean cruise itinerary lets you discover the best of what each has to offer.
Depart year-round from Florida and all major ports on America’s gulf coast to voyage first-class at discount cruise prices. Check out our deals on cheap cruises to the Western Caribbean and choose from one of many Western Caribbean cruise ships ready to set sail at your earliest convenience.
Don’t Miss…
▪ Climb up spectacular Dunn’s River Falls.
▪ Snorkel with stingrays.
▪ Go horseback riding on the beach.
▪ Dive 800 feet below sea level in a research submarine.
▪ Discover the inhabitants of a coral reef on a glass-bottomed boat.
▪ Explore ancient civilizations as you climb mysterious Mayan pyramids.
Find a Western Caribbean Cruise Deal…
Looking for a deal on a Western Caribbean cruise? We have selected the best cruises - from weekend getaways to more extensive escapes, we have a deal that fits your budget.Find a cruise onlineor call 1(866) 836-6963 to speak with a cruise expert.
Find yourself dreaming of island hopping to a variety of tropical locales? Last minute Caribbean cruises bring your dreams to life. Stretching from the southern tip of Florida to South America, it is easy to see why the Caribbean is such a draw for last minute cruises. This paradise offers azure blue waves teeming with aquatic wildlife. Scattered throughout the sea are thousands of miles of sunny shoreline waiting for your toes to meet the surf. As if sun, sand and surf weren’t enough, this region offers so much more. Whether your interests lie in water activities, unique cruise cuisine, duty-free shopping, or experiencing traces of lingering European culture, discount Caribbean cruises bring you countless opportunities. Choosing a Caribbean cruise line gives you the chance to see not one destination, but a handful, each boasting its own unique flair.
These island destinations are so diverse that three separate Caribbean cruise areas have been defined, each with its own distinct and exotic ports of call. Western Caribbean cruises, Eastern Caribbean cruises (including the Bahamas), and Southern Caribbean cruises each put forth a unique perspective on the history, culture and geography of this vast tropical region.
You are able to vary your itinerary by choosing from a quick 4 day Caribbean cruise, or take your time on a 7 day Caribbean cruise. No matter which you choose, you’re guaranteed several island stops, each of which opens the door to a different slice of paradise.
Don’t miss our hot cruise deals. Plan your getaway today on a royal Caribbean cruise ship or another Caribbean cruise line. The last minute cruise of your dreams is awaiting your discovery…book it today!
Don’t Miss…
▪ Climb Jamaica’s Dunn’s River Falls.
▪ Go mountain biking in Costa Rica’s rain forests.
▪ Snorkel with stingrays.
▪ Go horseback riding on the beach.
▪ Dive 800 feet below sea level in a research submarine.
▪ Discover the inhabitants of a coral reef on a glass-bottomed boat.
▪ Explore ancient civilizations as you climb mysterious Mayan pyramids
Find a Caribbean Cruise Deal…
Looking for a deal on a Caribbean cruise? We have selected the best cruises - from weekend getaways to more extensive escapes, we have a deal that fits your budget. Find a cruise online or call 1(866) 836-6963 to speak with a cruise expert.
Dubai, the second largest of the seven emirates, occupies an area of approximately 3,900 kilometres, which includes a small enclave called Hatta, situated close to Oman, amongst the Hajar Mountains.Under the wise leadership of its rulers, Dubai’s focus on trade and industry transformed it into the leading trading port along the southern Gulf.His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is the current ruler of Dubai.
Dubai in 1990 prior to the developments
The same street in 2003
Same street at night
Dubai Waterfront. When completed it will become the largest waterfront development in the world.
The Al Burj. This will be the centerpiece of the Dubai Waterfront. Once completed it will take over the title of the tallest structure in the world from the Burj Dubai.
The Burj Dubai. Construction began in 2005 and is expected to be complete by 2008. At an estimated height of over 800 meters, it will easily be world’s tallest building when finished. It will be almost 40% taller than the the current tallest building, the Yaipei 101.
This is what downtown Dubai will look like around 2008-2009. More than 140 stories of the Burj Dubai have already been completed. It is already the worlds tallest man made structure and it is still not scheduled to be completed for at least another year.
Recently it was announced that the final height of this tower will be 1200 meters. That would make it more than 30% taller than the Burj Dubai and three times as tall as the Empire State Building.
The Palm Islands in Dubai. New Dutch dredging technology was used to create these massive man made islands. They are the largest artificial islands in the world and can be seen from space. Three of these Palms will be made with the last one being the largest of them all. Upon completion, the resort will have 2,000 villas, 40 luxury hotels, shopping centers, movie theaters, and many other facilities. It is expected to support a population of approximately 500,000 people. It is advertised as being visible from the moon.
The Dubai Mall will be the largest shopping mall in the world with over 9 million square feet of shopping and around 1000 stores. It will be completed in 2008.
The World Islands . 300 artificially created islands in the shape of the world. Each island will have an estimated cost of $25-30 million.
Dubailand.Currently, the largest amusement park collection in the world is Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando , which is also the largest single-site employer in the United states with 58,000 employees. Dubailand will be twice the size. Currently, the Walt Disney World Resort is the #1 tourist destination in the world. Once fully completed, Dubailand will easily take over that title since it is expected to attract 200,000 visitors daily. The Dubai Metro system, once completed, will become the largest fully automated rail system in the world. The Dubai World Central International Airport will become the largest airport in size when it is completed. It will also eventually become the busiest airport in the world, based on passenger volume.
There are more construction workers in Dubai than there are actual citizens.
As a repatriated foreign national, I am often ‘lucky’ enough to have both the near and extended family come stay with me for their summer holidays - a season we are on the very brink of now.
Aside from host, tour guide, butler, chef, chamber maid and free lodging, one of the main duties I fulfill is personal shopper, a role that my fiancée is far suited too, but I have picked up a few tips along the way….
Apparently one of the main shopping outlets in Orlando is the 4th largest tourist attraction in the State of Florida, a little scary, but not as scary as your average ‘door buster’ sale at your local Walmart…
So, for those not familiar with where to shop in Orlando, or even that there was such a prominent non-Theme Park pastime, here are some of the basics.
Bargains, and name brands.
No question, hands down winner is the Premium Factory Outlets in Lake Buena Vista. Very prominently located next to Interstate 4 and just off of Hwy 535, it’s easy to find and well worth the visit. You’ll find here all of the main brands that you would like to see, some obvious (Timberland, Nike, Reebok etc etc), but some not so obvious, Juicy Couture, Lacoste, Burburry and the like.
A couple of caveats; it’s BUSY! You’ll need a little patience for parking, especially at the weekends.
There’s a reason it’s cheap – most of the stores feature factory seconds, imperfect goods. Try anything you’re interested in on before you buy (did you know you are entitled to 30 days to return items with a receipt?).
Not everything is cheaper. Yes, if you are from almost anywhere overseas (thanks Mr. Bush), inevitably it will be cheaper than your home shopping venues due to the incredibly weak Dollar, BUT, just because it says ‘factory store’ doesn’t mean it is cheaper than a regular store (Bose for example, same price, less warranty).
Next up, the massively re-vamped Prime 1 Outlets at International Drive. Formerly known as Belz Factory outlet, up and coming and worth a look. Make sure to check ‘Neiman Marcus Last Call’ and ‘Saks Off Fifth’.
Still going strong;
Florida Mall is still a contender, it is home to some strong anchors such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom and Macy’s plus has a good variation from high end to unusual to cheap and cheerful. If you’re travelling with young kids, then the Build-A-Bear Workshop I think is a sure hit where the kids choose and build their own themed Teddy Bear!
Located on Sand Lake road, everyone knows where it is.
A little more up market.
Mall at Millennia. Near World Class shopping, including the Bloomingdales, Macy’s and Neiman Marcus department stores. This Mall is a little nicer than many with some excellent spots for a glass of your favorite refreshment or a spot of lunch (Cheescake Factory is great).
While you’re there, don’t miss the periphery stores, apparently they didn’t build it big enough – there are a ton of great stores and eateries sprouting all around it.
Located on Conroy Road, easy to access via Interstate 4, and is just a couple of miles from the main entrance of Universal Studios.
Orlando Florida is home to some of the best attractions and theme parks in the world and the water parks are no exception! The following is a complete review with tips for the top water parks for Summer 2008.
Discovery Cove
Discovery Cove is a truly unique water park! Here, you’ll enjoy an entire day up close and personal with aquatic wildlife and birds. Main attractions include:
Aviary
Ray Lagoon
Coral reef
Starfish Cabana
Sea Horse Cabana
Sand Dollar Cabana
Tropical River
Resort Pool
Dolphin Lagoon
Discovery Cove Packages
You can purchase an All-Inclusive pass during the day and enjoy every attraction Discovery Cove has to offer. New for 2008 is the Evening Experience which offers a more intimate experience with only 150 guests allowed into the park per session. You get the same access to the park as the all-inclusive package with less people plus a night full of dining and dancing. Perfect for animal lovers, check out the Become a Trainer for a Day package to get a close look at what it is like to be a trainer. Discovery Cove also does group and family events, even special occasions.
Here is a review from WatchMojo.com where you can see guests interacting with the animals:
Tips for Getting the Most out of your visit
There are only 1,000 guests allowed in the park at one time during the day hours (9:00am - 3:00pm) so a reservation is required. Plan to visit this park at least a few weeks in advance.
The all-inclusive ticket will run you about $259. There is a cheaper all-inclusive package that includes everything except for the dolphin encounter for $100 less.
If you are visiting the park as a group and want to be in the same group for the dolphin encounter keep in mind that the groups are 6 to 8 guests at a time so figure out your dolphin encounter groups ahead of time.
If you are planning on taking home a picture or a video of your dolphin swim experience be sure to bring some extra cash with you as these souvenirs tend to be a bit pricey.
Breakfast, Lunch and Snacks are included in the admission price and are pretty tasty
For the Adventurous type: The dolphin encounter is a must. Explore shipwrecks and swim with thousands of tropical fish, stingrays, sharks and barracudas in the Coral Reef! There is a protective glass wall that separates you from the sharks and barracudas so no worries. Also make sure you get a chance to wade in the shallow waters of Ray Lagoon which is inhabited with tons of stingrays up to 4 feet in diameter.
For relaxation: Float along the Topical River, take a walk through the Aviary to see over 30 species of birds that you can feed and interact with, or take a dip in the Resort Pool which has a comfortable temperature of 80 degrees.
Blizzard Beach
Disney’s Blizzard Beach is a one of a kind and the world’s only ski resort themed water park. The entire water park looks like a winter wonderland with exciting water slides and a relaxing creek. Main attractions are broken down into categories and include:
Summit Plummet
Toboggan Racers
Slush Gusher
Downhill Double Dipper
Runoff Rapids
Ski Patrol Training Camp - Leisure Pool, Fahrenheit Drops, Freezin’ Pipe Springs, Cool Runners
Snow Stormers
Teamboat Springs
Tike’s Peak
Chairlift
Cross Country Creek
Melt-Away Bay
Dining
Avalunch - light entrees, snacks and beverages
Lottawatta Lodge - complete entrees (pizza, burgers, salads and sandwiches, desserts and beverages)
Warming Hut - lunch, dinner, snacks and desserts
Cooling Hut - snacks and beverages
Sled Dogger - deserts and beverages
Frostbite Freddie’s - bar
Polar Pub - bar
Shopping
North Pearl - Jewelry store specializing in pearls
Snowless Joe’s - locker and towel rentals; complimentary life jackets
The Beach Haus - souvenirs, swim wear, footwear and more
Blizzard Beach Packages
The price per day decreases the more days you purchase tickets for. There are three “Magic Your Way Tickets” options available the Park Hopper, Water Park Fun & More and the No Expiration. Here’s the break down:
Park Hopper - Visit multiple theme parks with one ticket. For an added bonus if you stay at a Disney Resort Hotel you can stay at the parks for an additional 4 hours to enjoy the Extra Magic Hours.
Water Park Fun & More - Choose from Typhon Lagoon, Blizzard Beach, DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive Theme Park, Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex and Downtown Disney Pleasure Island.
No Expiration - Pre-purchase 14 days of admissions which becomes active from their first time of use. The days do not expire so you can use the unused days another time.
Tips for getting the most out of your visit
Know which rides are for you. I have broken down the rides by Blizzard Beach’s categories to illustrate the intensity of each ride below.
Watch the video below for a virtual ride down the Summit Plummet
Mild But Wild Thrills: Runoff Rapids, Ski Patrol Training Camp, Snow Stormers, Teamboat Springs
Fun For Little Ones: Tike’s Peak
Other Attractions: Chairlift - Takes you up to Mount Gushmore (the fifth highest point in Florida according to Wikipedia) where you can navigate your way through the park. Cross Country Creek - lazy river that flows around the perimeter of the park. Melt-Away Bay - 1 acre wave pool.
During peak season Blizzard Beach can reach capacity quickly, to avoid getting turned away, try to get to the park early. In the summer the park tends to be less crowded in the late afternoons.
You can rent a locker for the day ($5 for a small locker and $7 for a large locker per day - there is an additional $2 key deposit required for both sized lockers).
Complimentary life jackets are available for free with a personal ID and a $25 refundable deposit.
If you forget your own towel you can rent one for $1 per day
1 special guest can open the park but they have to be willing to go down Summit Plummet. This guest is usually chosen with a family and by providing the cast member with humorous banter.
For those of you who want to soak up some sun, try to get into the park early to get some lounge chairs. When setting up your lounge chairs note that shaded areas in the morning will be sunny in the afternoon. The sun goes from the front of Mount Gushmore in the morning to the back of Mount Gushmore in the afternoon.
To avoid long lines, do the big slides early.
SeaWorld’s Aquatica
Aquatica, the brand new water park by SeaWorld, is located right across the street from SeaWorld. This park combines an up close and personal encounters with marine life with extreme water rides. Main attractions include:
Big Surf Shores
Cutback Cove
Kata’s Kookaburra Cove
Roa’s Rapids
Taumata Racer
Walhalla Wave
Walkabout Waters
HooRoo Run
Whanau Way
Dolphin Plunge
Loggerhead Lane
Tassie’s Twisters
Commerson’s Dolphin Exhibit
Fish Grotto
The clip below was taken on the park’s opening day March 1st, 2008:
Aquatica Packages
There are 4 different packages you can purchase:
1 Park Package: Aquatica $38.95 (Adult) $32.95 (Child)
2 Park Package: Aquatica and Sea World $89.95 (Adult) $79.95 (Child)
3 Park Package: Aquatica, Sea World and Busch Gardens $134.95 (Adult) $124.95 (Child)
Discovery Cove Package: Aquatica and Discovery Cove plus Sea World or Busch Gardens (choose one) Prices Start at ($242.00)
Discovery Cove Ultimate Package: Aquatica, Discovery Cove, Sea World and Busch Gardens pirces start at $287.00
Orlando Flex Ticket Package: Aquatica, Sea World, Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and Wet N Wild $234.95 (Adult) $194.95 (Child)
Orlando Flex Ticket Plus: Aquatica, Sea World, Busch Gardens, Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and Wet N Wild
Tips for Getting the Most out of your visit
We will follow up in a few months with some tips
Typhoon Lagoon
The Disney “legend” behind Typhoon Lagoon is a typhoon wreaked havoc on a pristine tropical paradise. This park features water slides, a shark reef and the world’s largest wave pool. Main attractions include:
Crush ‘n’ Gusher
Humunga Kowabunga
Ketchakiddee Creek
Gank Plank Falls
Kellhaul Falls
Mayday Falls
Shark Reef
Storm Slides
Surf Lessons
Surf Pool
Typhoon Lagoon Dining
Leaning Palms - lunch, dinner, snacks and desserts
Typhoon Tilly’s - lunch and dinner
Happy Landings Ice Cream - desserts
Lowtide Lou’s - snacks and beverages
Let’s Go Slurpin’ - bar featuring frozen drink specials and spirits
Surf Doggies - hot dogs and turkey legs
Typhoon Lagoon Shopping
Singapore Sal’s - shop for swim wear, sunscreen, t-shirts, hats, beach chairs, sunglasses, sundries and photo pick-up.
Typhoon Lagoon Packages
Same as Blizzard Beach, the price per day decreases the more days you purchase tickets for. There are three “Magic Your Way Tickets” options available the Park Hopper, Water Park Fun & More and the No Expiration. Here’s the break down:
Park Hopper - Visit multiple theme parks with one ticket. For an added bonus if you stay at a Disney Resort Hotel you can stay at the parks for an additional 4 hours to enjoy the Extra Magic Hours.
Water Park Fun & More - Choose from Typhon Lagoon, Blizzard Beach, DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive Theme Park, Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex and Downtown Disney Pleasure Island.
No Expiration - Pre-purchase 14 days of admissions which becomes active from their first time of use. The days do not expire so you can use the unused days another time.
Tips for Getting the Most out of your visit
Lockers are available for rent $6 for a small and $8 for a large with a $2 refund or souvenir mug when you return the key to the locker
If you forget to bring a towel you can rent one for $2 per towel per day
If you want to surf in the Surf Pool group size is limited to 8 to 20 surfers per reservation and is done before and after general park hours. Below is a video of some guests surfing in the Surf Pool:
If you don’t know how to surf and want to take lessons, they are available at the Surfing School at Typhoon Lagoon and cost $125. 12 students per class so space is limited. Classes take place every Tuesday.
Some guests recommend that you wear water shoes in the wave pool to avoid scraping your feet on the no slip floor and avoid sitting on the floor of the pool, even in the shallow end to avoid scrapes and potential bruises. Waves in the wave pool can reach a height of 6 feet tall. This is not really an attraction for smaller children, Ketchakiddee Creek is a better choice for them.
In a recent article published by TravelMole Atlantic City was said to be rated higher by consumers than Las Vegas. Here are the highlights:
Market Metrix’s latest hospitality study reported that Atlantic City was rated higher by consumers for price, sophistication and pampering.
A recent survey published in Hotel & Motel Management magazine said that Atlantic City beat out Las Vegas when it came to the hotel and casino experience.
San Rafael from Market Metrix conducted a survey asking guests if they would recommend the resort they stayed at to others; 78% of Atlantic City guests said that they were very likely to recommend the resort while only 59% of Las Vegas guests said that they were very likely to recommend the resort.
Here are the top 10 attractions in Atlantic City:
1. Harrah’s Atlantic City Casino
2. The Pier at Caesars
3. Central Pier
4. Wild Wild West Casino
5. Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum
6. Casino at the Tropicana Resort
7. Atlantic City Historical Museum
8. Garden Pier
9. The Quarter at Tropicana
10. Caesars Atlantic City Casino
For the best value on a vacation to Atlantic City, check out LastMinuteTravel.com’s Package Deals.
