Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa Deluxe Studio Room

Inspired by historic Saratoga Springs—a late-1800s’ New York retreat famous for its spas and horse racing—this charming, Victorian-style Resort hotel is nestled between rolling golf course greens and the shimmering Village Lake. Delight in stately Studios and multi-bedroom Villas, dazzling pools and a spa. You can also explore the fun activities and exciting dining options of Disney Springs, just a boat ride away.

Take a tour of Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort Deluxe Studio Room here:

The Deluxe Studio Room is offered with views of Garden, Lake, Pool, Woodlands or Fairways. They have 1 queen-size bed, 1 double-size sleeper sofa, so these rooms sleep up to 4.

Amenities include:

• Kitchenette
• Paper plates and bowls, and plastic utensils
• Small refrigerator
• Microwave

• Wet bar
• Full bathroom
• Alarm clock with radio
• Coffeemaker

• Flat panel TV
• DVD player
• High-speed Internet access
• Iron and ironing board

• Hair dryer
• In-room safe
• Voicemail
• Portable Crib

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort features 2 exciting feature pools as well as 3 leisure pools—plus pool slides, whirlpool spas, aqua-play areas and more! There are Quick Service and Table Service restaurants on site as well as a full-service spa and health club inspired by the 19th century wellness retreats of upstate New York.

Enjoy your Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort room and all of the amenities and recreational offerings available at this 65-acre Resort—just a short boat ride from Disney Springs!

 

Your visit to Disney’s the Magic Kingdom would be incomplete without at least one viewing of Wishes a Nighttime Spectacular Fireworks Show. I try to see it more than once, but I won’t check out of my resort until I’ve seen Wishes.

That, of course, begs the question about where and how to see Wishes the best way possible. I’m sure that if you use any or all of these tips, you’ll have a great viewing of the show!

Tip #1 – Don’t Photograph or Video the show

I am someone who takes pictures and videos of everything. It makes my family crazy as I stop once again to take a picture of that unique looking rock on the side of the road… However, I have finally learned to stop watching Fireworks through the lens of my phone, camera or video camera. Not only is it work to do these things, but it takes away the enjoyment of the moment. I will also mention briefly it drives others around you crazy to watch the fireworks through your tablet.

Tip #2 – Go Early, Stay Back…

Everyone wants to head right for the hub and stake a spot out, or worse come 4 minutes before the show and try to find a great location where others already are. Instead, save yourself the trouble and go early, but not to the hub, head down to the end of Main Street and stake out a nice spot to take in the entire fireworks show. I try to be just up from Casey’s Restaurant for a prime viewing location. The closer you are to the castle, the less you’ll be able to see.

Tip #3 – View From Contemporary Resort

It seems that many people don’t consider viewing options outside of the Magic Kingdom. There are so many different ways to view the fireworks. My favorite is to book a reservation at California Grill, located atop the Contemporary Resort. Book your reservation so that you will be in the restaurant during the fireworks show and you can see them from the patios located on either side of the restaurant. To do this viewing option, plan on booking your dining reservation exactly 180 days in advance.

Tip #4 – View from Seven Seas Lagoon

There are some different ways to see the fireworks from the lagoon. My favorite is the Pirates and Pals Fireworks Dessert Cruise. You meet up at Contemporary Resort and enjoy a nice dessert buffet with Captain Hook and Mr. Smee before boarding your own “Pirate boat” with a scallywag guide who will lead you in jokes, songs and trivia throughout your sailing. It is a great way to end a perfect day!

Tip #5 – Don’t Leave Park Right After Fireworks!

It seems everyone makes a beeline for the exit right after the show is over. In my opinion, when going with the mob to the exit you end up losing all the emotions and feelings you just had from the fireworks show. Instead, step to the side out of the way of traffic and wait for the main crowd to leave. Your patience will be rewarded with some quieter shopping experiences, as well as a smaller second Castle show right as the park shuts down for the night… You won’t be sorry you stayed for it.

Daniel is an agent with Destinations In Florida travel agency and travels as often as possible. His goal is to ensure that all of his guests receive the best vacation planning possible. Reach out to him at anytime via email or Facebook.

For more Top 5’s, vacation enjoyment tips, and updated travel information, make sure to visit back often.

Ready to feel transported half way around the world, on an African savannah?

Look no further! Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park can help with that at Disney’s Kilimanjaro Safari.

When you start your way up the queue, you find yourself in the Harambe Reserve. But soon, you’ll arrive at the platform to board your jeep and head off into the African savannah. Each safari trek is different. You can ride several times and not have the same type of experience each time; even if it’s on the same day.

Your driver, or guide, will point out the different animals for you. Keep your eyes peeled; there are 34 different species of exotic African animals. Take quick pictures since your driver usually won’t stop; or stops only momentarily, at best, for photos.

Use FastPass+ if you can. Many say that going early in the day is better to see lots of animals; while other say the best time is between 2-3pm.

How many animals have you seen on your journey through Kilimanjaro Safari?

One last note…. Be prepared! It’s a bumpy ride!

Veronica has planned her family vacations for years.  Now she gets to do it for others, and it’s like a dream come true.  She creates lasting memories to the destination of your choice by planning customized vacations.  She focuses on family and family reunion travel to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Disney Cruise Line and Sandals & Beaches Resorts.  As well as Southern United States; like Nashville, Chattanooga, Memphis, Savannah and Atlanta.  She’ll help you find the BEST accommodations with the BEST value, and she will fill in all the blanks… all at no cost to you! She can’t wait to pass that magic on to your family.  If you are ready to save on your next vacation, contact Veronica!! 

Veronica@DestinationsInFlorida.com 

Extra Garden Rocks Concerts to Close Festival on Memorial Day

Thirteen pop bands with hits spanning several decades will play the Garden Rocks Concert Series at the 23rd Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival March 2-May 30, 2016. This year’s festival expands from 75 to 90 days, adding two additional concert series weekends to the lineup and extending the final weekend of performances to Memorial Day.

Blood, Sweat & Tears, Brian Howe, former lead singer of Bad Company, Darlene Love and Georgia Satellites will rock Epcot audiences for the first time. Night Ranger, a fan favorite band that’s played the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, will make a Flower & Garden Festival debut. The Orchestra starring former members of ELO, who topped charts in the 1970s and ‘80s, will kick off the concert series March 4-6.

Fan Favorites and New Additions

Guests can dance in their seats each festival weekend to classic tunes at the park’s America Gardens Theatre. An eclectic mix of Flower & Garden Festival fan favorites includes the Village People, who debuted at the festival in 2013. With a nod to the 1960s, Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone will rock the house April 1-3. On Memorial Day, The Spinners will close the 90-day festival on a high note, extending their weekend performance to Monday.

Performances are at America Gardens Theatre at 5:30, 6:45 and 8 p.m. every Friday, Saturday and Sunday of the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival and are included with Epcot admission.

Here is this year’s lineup (subject to change without notice):

March 4-6     The Orchestra starring former members of ELO “Evil Woman”

March 11-13     Starship starring Mickey Thomas “We Built This City”

March 18-20     Little River Band “Lady”

March 25-27     Village People “Y.M.C.A.”

April 1-3     Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone “I’m Henry the VIII, I Am”

April 8-10 The Guess Who “These Eyes”

April 15-17     NEW! Blood, Sweat & Tears featuring Bo Bice “Spinning Wheel”

April 22-24     NEW! Bad Company, former lead singer Brian Howe “Can’t Get Enough”

April 29-May 1     NEW! Georgia Satellites “Keep Your Hands to Yourself”

May 6-8     Gin Blossoms “Hey Jealousy”

May 13-15     NEW! Darlene Love “Wait ‘Til My Bobby Gets Home”

May 20-22     Night Ranger “Sister Christian”

May 27-30     The Spinners “Working My Way Back to You”

Save Time & Money on Your Orlando Vacation with Local Experts!
Contact our Team at Destinations in Florida Today
877-918-8941 or Request a Price Online

23^rd Spring Flower & Garden Festival Will Run March 2-May 30, 2016

Two new spring-inspired Outdoor Kitchens, three mischievous Disney topiary characters and an innovative musical play garden will debut during the 23^rd Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival March 2-May 30, 2016. The popular spring flower & garden festival at Walt Disney World Resort, known for its tasty edibles, sweeping floral displays and dazzling topiary creations, expands from 75 days to 90 days in 2016.

The new La Isla Fresca and Cider House Outdoor Kitchens will introduce fresh variety and flavor to the culinary offerings at a record 13 festival kiosks surrounding the World Showcase Promenade. Donald Duck’s mischievous nephews, Huey, Dewey and Louie, make their topiary debut with Donald and Daisy in the park’s signature front-entrance garden. Xylophones, drums and chimes will take child’s play to tuneful levels at the new Harmony Gardens play area featuring “leader-of-the-band” Mickey Mouse topiary.

Live Garden Rocks concerts will set the beat with familiar pop tunes each festival weekend. And special “Fun Fresh Weekends” add new adventures to the seasonal event.

Guests of the 2016 festival can celebrate spring with gardens-full of Epcot options:

• New culinary creations at the festival’s Outdoor Kitchens will take guests on a Caribbean tour at La Isla Fresca with flavors like Jamaican Braised Beef with Pigeon-Pea Rice and Jerk-Spiced Grouper or Chicken with Mango Salsa. At the new Cider House, a Field Greens salad with greens harvested from The Land pavilion, heirloom apples, Stilton cheese and dried blueberries will pair well with a blueberry hard cider from Plant City, Fla. Dozens of new food and beverage flavors will debut, as well, at the festival’s 11 other Outdoor Kitchens: Urban Farm Eats, Pineapple Promenade, Fleur de Lys, Florida Fresh, Taste of Marrakesh, Hanami, THE SMOKEHOUSE: Barbecue and Brews, Primavera Kitchen, Lotus House, Bauernmarkt and Jardin de Fiestas.

• The first-ever Huey, Dewey and Louie topiaries will feature floral interpretations of Donald’s nephews inspired by a 1943 Donald Duck comic book called “The Victory Garden” at the Epcot front-entrance garden display with Donald and Daisy.

• A new hands-on Music Garden Melodies musical playground will debut featuring Disney’s Fab Five topiaries of “band leader” Mickey Mouse plus Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Pluto and Donald Duck topiaries. With the playground’s interactive drums, chimes and xylophones, children can create their own musical sounds when they’re not scampering across innovative outdoor climbing systems with safe, but challenging, net-based structures. Watch for music-themed plants that add harmony to this inspired play area. The popular Cactus Road Rally play garden returns with Disney-Pixar topiary pals Mater and Lightning McQueen from the hit film, “Cars.”

• Fun Fresh Weekends add novel dimension to daily festival fun: April 1-3 — Art in the Garden Weekend spotlights nature through the works of plein air artists; April 8-10 – The new Family Fun Weekend presents outdoor activities for everyone to enjoy and a Festival Center focus on bugs with Disney’s Animal Kingdom specialists; April 22-24 – Earth Day Weekend celebrates our planet with special appearances and activities; and April 29-May 1—Florida Fresh Weekend features the state’s edible bounty from Apalachicola to Zellwood.

• On the south side of Spaceship Earth, Disney gardeners will paint the landscape with a Floral Sun garden and yellow “sunbursts” will sprout in a new Future World topiary garden featuring Minnie Mouse and Pluto.

• The Ranger Mickey topiary garden in Future World will offer a guest selfie and family photo opportunity featuring a Spaceship Earth backdrop to celebrate the 100^th anniversary of the National Parks Service launched in 1916 to conserve the country’s natural scenic treasures.

• Anna and Elsa topiaries will travel to the Norway pavilion festival landscape following their 2015 debut along World Showcase Plaza in a scene from the blockbuster Oscar-winning animated film, “Frozen.” Nearly 100 topiary characters, including Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Lady and the Tramp, Simba and Peter Pan, will animate the Epcot landscape surrounded by themed gardens featuring herbs, peppers, orchids and more.

• By night, twinkling lights will shine across festival gardens and topiaries.

• The Garden Rocks concert series will present pop bands with music spanning four decades. This year’s lineup kicks off March 4-6 with The Orchestra starring former members of ELO and will also include new-to-the-festival acts like Darlene Love.

• A new edible flower garden by The Land pavilion will showcase petals with flavor.

• The Butterflies on the Go garden will return with the story of the Monarch’s epic journey across the continent and featuring butterflies emerging from their chrysalises.

• Each weekend at the Festival Center, guests can dig in for a complimentary hands-on Gardening Seminar experience and create a take-home souvenir or grab a seat to hear tips from experts on a broad range of topics. The center also offers signature festival merchandise, food and beverages.

Forty 8-to-9-foot-tall Disney-crafted “flower towers” and sweeping beds of multi-colored blooms will add to the floral splendor of the park’s landscape.  At least 70,000 bedding plants will surround the Future World east and west lakes alone; on the water, more than 200 mini-gardens will be set afloat.

For more information about the 23rd Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, call 407/W-DISNEY (934-7639). Watch for details at EpcotInSpring.com as they become available. The festival, including all gardening programs and exhibits, is included in regular Epcot admission.

The Wilderness Lodge is themed and atmosphere of America’s Great Pacific Northwest. The hotel was inspired by turn-of-the-century National Park lodges, the main building was modeled after the Old Faithful Inn found in Yellowstone National Park. Disney’s Wilderness Lodge celebrates American craftsmanship and honors the beauty of the untamed wilderness. Soak in the splendor of the great outdoors, from nature trails through pine forests to rocking chairs that overlook a murmuring creek. Inside, discover towering totem poles, headdresses and more, and sink into a plush leather armchair in front of the roaring fireplace. The Wilderness Lodge has also added Vacation Club Villas, which are themed after the transcontinental railroad. The Villas at the Wilderness Lodge have Deluxe Studio, One Bedroom and Two Bedroom Villas with full kitchen and living space.

The Wilderness Lodge is located in the Magic Kingdom area. Boat transportation is available from the Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Contemporary Resort and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground.

The Wilderness Lodge has several dining operations Artist Point, which is an upscale restaurant that features cuisine from the Northwest States. Whispering Canyon Café is an Old West Themed interactive restaurant that is fun for the whole family. Roaring Fork Snacks is a casual eatery; Territory Lounge is a bar that is adjacent to Artist point where drinks and light meals are served. Trout Pass is a pool bar located at the Silver Creek Springs pool.

The Wilderness Lodge has many activities for families to enjoy such as Teton Boat and Bike Rentals. Hidden Springs Pool is the quiet pool. Fire Rock Geyser, which erupts every hour, this is located near Silver Creek Pool. Cub’s Den is a children’s play and childcare facility for children aged 3 -12, Buttons & Bells Arcade, White Sand Beach and Sturdy Branches Health Club.

Barbara Roach is your Personal Travel & Cruise Concierge. I have been organizing travel for years. We know the where to find the best deals, what really constitutes “value” and how you can make your vacation dollar stretch, especially when it comes to planning travel with kids.??Regardless of your destination, my goal is to exceed your every expectation and deliver you to a most enchanting vacation. We’re here for you too – just a phone call away; before, during and after your travel.

For information concerning Disney or any other destination, please contact me at 401-323-1294 or email me at barbararoach@destinationsinflorida.com

SeaWorld Orlando’s Bands, Brew & BBQ Festival takes place over four sizzling weekends.

On Saturday, March 5, the famed band who created popular songs such as, “Fly Like an Eagle,” “Jet Airline” and “Jungle Love” – Steve Miller Band – will take the stage and wow audiences.  Then on Sunday, March 6, Billboard chart topper and American Music Award winner, Daughtry will rock at SeaWorld with songs like, “Waiting for Superman,” “Over You” and “Feels Like Tonight.”

Scheduled performances now include:

• Saturday, February 27:  ALABAMA
• Sunday, February 28: Foreigner
• Saturday, March 5: Steve Miller Band
• Sunday, March 6:  Daughtry

The event honors America’s Heroes and featuring live concerts from top classic rock and country bands and artists, tasty BBQ and thirst-quenching beer, and is included with regular park admission. Event festivities begin at 12 p.m. each weekend, with concerts at 4 p.m.*

In addition to the signature acts and festivities, the event also will feature a secondary stage to showcase local bands, and a DJ spinning music for guests to show off their line dancing and boot scootin’ skills.

Beyond the stage, guests can enjoy a Harley-Davidson Orlando display of motorcycles specifically for Bands, Brew and BBQ along with a collection of classic cars.

Returning this year, the patriotic-themed USO Family Garden will offer animal encounters, Explore Zones and a kid-friendly interactive host making this the perfect place to play for families with young guests. Kids of all ages are invited to enjoy this family-friendly area while they learn to line dance, meet animals and have fun all afternoon.

SPECIAL PACKAGES:

For a VIP experience, packages with reserved seating are available.

·        VIP Front Row Seating & BBQ Package – Starting at just $40, guests can reserve a front row seat (just inches from the artists); enjoy a delicious BBQ Tasting Sampler, and one Quick Queue unlimited.

• Concert Floor Seating & Quick Queue – Starting at just $24, guests can reserve floor seats right in front of the band and Quick Queue unlimited.

This year, SeaWorld’s chef experts fire up the grill with a bold array of BBQ options beyond the ordinary.  From smoky and spicy to sweet and tangy, there are options for every craving, plus guests can match menu items with specific craft brews or a flight of wine.

New this year, connoisseurs of BBQ and craft brews can delight in sizzling sampler packages sure to elevate the taste buds.

SPECIAL BANDS, BREW & BBQ PACKAGES INCLUDE:

• BBQ Tasting Sampler – Guests can choose up to five menu items from SeaWorld’s sampler selections at any of the Bands, Brew & BBQ food locations for just $20.

• Craft Brew Sampler – Guests sample 10 ice-cold craft beers — from a selection of more than 30 brews — for just $30. 

• BBQ Tasting and Craft Brew Sampler (Best Value) – This sampler includes five menu items and five craft brew samples along the Bands, Brew & BBQ Pathway –all for only $35.

MILITARY OFFER – ACTIVE DUTY AND VETERANS

• SeaWorld Orlando also is proud to offer a special discount for enlisted men and women and veterans during this event, including 50% off the standard price of the 2016 Fun Card, which allows unlimited admission to SeaWorld all year for the price of a single-day ticket. Military also get 10% off special sampler Bands, Brew & BBQ packages. For more details, visit wavesofhonor.com.

LIMITED TIME OFFER – 2016 SEAWORLD ORLANDO FUN CARD

·        As a special discount for purchasing early — now through March 6 — guests who purchase a Fun Card will pay for less than a day and play all year long. During this special timeframe, the 2016 SeaWorld Orlando Fun Card is just $94 plus tax, which is a $5 savings.

Bands, Brew & BBQ is included with regular park admission. Stay tuned for the latest event information and artist announcements on SeaWorldOrlando.com as well as SeaWorld’s Facebook and Instagram accounts. Join the conversation using #SeaWorld #BandsBrewBBQ.  Pay for less than a day Fun Card must be redeemed in-park by March 6, 2016. Taxes, shipping, and service fees not included.

*Event times, dates and talent are subject to change or cancellation without prior notice.

As you probably know, when you vacation in Orlando, there are many places to eat. As a local, I am often asked, “What is the best place to eat and see the characters?” The reality is, it depends on which characters your family wants to see. So, here I have listed the Top Five Character Meals in Orlando.

Chef Mickey – Chef Mickey is often thought of as the best character meal. If you are at Disney for a short period of time or just passing through, Chef Mickey’s would be the best fit for you. Located at the Contemporary Resort, this is one of the few character meals that does not require admission to a theme park. It is a very extensive buffet that serves the world famous Mickey Waffles. They serve Breakfast, Brunch, and Dinner, and as you eat, the characters visit your table. Typically, the characters present are Mickey, Minnie, Pluto, Goofy, Daisy and Donald (although these are subject to change daily). The prices range from around $35.00-$52.00 (depending on the season) for adults and $19.99 for children. When you choose this character meal, I would give myself two hours to really take your time and enjoy your time there. It is also important that you book this reservation far in advance as it often books up quickly.

Superstar Character Breakfast at Universal Studios Florida – This Universal character breakfast includes characters from Dora, Sponge Bob, and Despicable Me. Along with the breakfast and the characters, you also get VIP viewing for the Parade. Located at Café LaBamba, your meal includes a plated breakfast of your choice. The price is $25.99 for adults and $12.99 for kids. Park admission is required and not included.

Dine with Shamu – This character breakfast is located at SeaWorld Orlando and allows you to have dinner, attend a private show about how SeaWorld cares for their animals and eat a fully sustainable meal. The meal includes a large all you can eat buffet of sustainable seafood and organic choices as well as kid friendly choices. You must have park admission to Sea World, and it will cost around $30.00 per person

Hollywood and Vine – This is probably my favorite meal for Breakfast and Lunch for small children. Located at Disney’s Hollywood Studios park, this is an interactive buffet that will get your children up and moving with their favorite characters. During your meal, you will be greeted by Handy Manny, Jake from Jake and the Neverland Pirates, Princess Sophia, and Doc McStuffins. About every 15 minutes, music will begin to play, and your child will be invited to come down to the front and dance with their favorite characters to well-known Disney Junior songs. Lunch will cost your around $27.00 for adults and $16.00 for children. When dinner is served, the characters change to Minnie and her friends and are usually themed based on the time of year it is. For instance, they have a Silver Screen theme for awards season and a Halloween theme for September and October. Characters will come to your table for pictures and autographs. The cost for the dinner is $47.00 for adults and $28.00 for children.

Akershus – While most people flock to eat at Cinderella’s Royal Table, I prefer Akershus located in Norway in Epcot’s World Showcase. Fashioned after a Norwegian castle, the food is phenomenal. The restaurant is filled with princess interactions. Typically the princesses present are Snow White, Belle, Cinderella, Ariel and Sleeping Beauty. However, there have been reports of Mulan and Tiana making guest appearances as well. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner and offer breakfast reservations up to an hour before park opening. The cost for this meal is approximately $52.00 for adults and $32.00 for children.

Kristi Gregory lives in Orlando with her husband and two boys.  Who better to plan a trip to Universal or Disney than a local who visits the parks multiple times a week?  Her clients enjoy insider tips, personalized itinerary planning, and attention to every detail of your trip.  Call Kristi at (859) 229-4840  or email to start planning your next vacation.

New Mako Coaster Opens This Summer at SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando has unveiled the custom-built Mako lead car that will take riders on a thrilling experience this summer – the tallest, fastest and longest roller coaster in Orlando.

Mako’s design and engineering was inspired by the real Mako shark – one of the ocean’s fastest shark species.  When it opens, Mako will top 200 feet high and reach speeds of 73 mph on a track that’s nearly a mile long. The new ride will be a hypercoaster, which means it’s all about speed, tight turns and that weightless feeling riders get at the top of each hill.

Coaster Train Design Facts Include:

• Mako-Inspired Custom Car – In a collaboration between SeaWorld’s animal experts and ride engineers, the car is inspired by the physiology of an actual Mako shark, including five gills on each side, eye placement and sleek, hydro-dynamic look.

• Fast Wheels– Comprised of a special compound that reduces friction — providing a smooth, relentlessly fast ride from beginning to end.

• Upper Body Mobility – With only a lap guard on their lower body, riders’ upper bodies are free for added mobility and “airtime”

The coaster will boast a total of 21 cars – including 3 trains of 7 cars per train.

We can’t wait to ride Mako this summer!

Follow the conversation about Mako online with #NothingFaster