Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort is one of the value resorts located near Disney’s All-Star Movies and All-Star Music Resorts. Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort features family-friendly lodging and appealing décor with a fun, sporting theme. This resort will allow you to enjoy the all the benefits of staying at an onsite Disney Resort with value pricing and great kid appeal.

As you walk around this resort, you’ll see larger-than-life, colorful icons including football helmets, tennis racquets, basketball courts, baseball diamonds, surfboards and more. These provide excellent backdrops for family photos.

Two heated outdoor pools, Surfboard Bay, and Grand Slam, are perfect for a relaxing afternoon outside of the theme parks. There is also a kiddie pool located at Surfboard Bay. The Grand Slam pool has a very cool Goofy statue that squirts water. Other recreational opportunities include a jogging trail, an arcade, movies under the stars and a few play areas.

Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort has features three-story buildings with outside corridors and elevators. There are five sections of rooms:

• Touchdown
• Home Run Hotel
• Center Court
• Surf’s Up
• Hoops Hotel

Guest rooms are relatively small, measuring 260 square feet, yet adequate for 4 people, plus one child under age three, Each includes two double beds or one king bed, a vanity area and a table with 2 chairs and a small refrigerator. Wheelchair user accessible rooms feature a king bed.

Dining options include the End Zone Food Court that has recently been renovated. It opens at 6 am serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks until midnight. There will be no problem finding something appetizing for everyone here! Pizza delivery is available from 5 pm until 1 am. Grandstand Spirits pool bar, located near Surfboard Bay pool, offers specialty drinks and delicious smoothies. Visit Sport Goofy Gift & Sundries for Disney souvenirs and select grocery items.

For a fun-filled Walt Disney World vacation that won’t break the bank, consider Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort. You’ll have a blast!

Written by Sheri Morris, “Main Street Morris” — Sheri is a proud grandmother with a keen eye for detail. She specializes in Disney Travel for adults and RV travel. Book your next vacation with Sheri at 804 405 5005 or sheri@destinationsinflorida.com.

Has your family always wanted to swim with dolphins, snorkel with tropical fish and experience stingrays up close but didn’t know where you could? Well, now you can do all of that and much more without having to leave sunny Orlando, Florida.

Discovery Cove is an experience like no other where your family can feed tropical birds, snorkel with tropical fish, interact with stingrays, swim above sharks, play within inches of otters and, of course, swim with bottlenose dolphins. All Discovery Cove Day Resort packages include the signature experiences and the option to have your day with or without the Dolphin Swim Experience. Packages are all-inclusive and include a freshly prepared breakfast and lunch as well as unlimited snacks and beverages throughout your visit. With your all-inclusive package, you also receive complimentary use of snorkel gear, wetsuits, towels, lockers, sunscreen, showers, changing rooms and all day self-parking. As if all of those perks were not enough you also get unlimited admission to SeaWorld Orlando and Aquatica Orlando for 14-consecutive days surrounding your reservation.

The highlight of your day will undoubtedly be your one-on-one dolphin experience in the dolphin lagoon. This experience is available to guests age 6 and older (with a participating adult) and includes an opportunity to become the best of friends with bottlenose dolphins during your 30-minute interactive adventure. Your experience will start with becoming acquainted with your dolphin in shallow water through kisses, hugs, and touch. Next your experience goes to a whole new level when you are invited into the deeper water with your dolphin for an exhilarating dorsal fin ride back to shore.

The next time you are visiting Orlando, plan to spend a day at Discovery Cove for an amazing day that you are sure to never forget!

Written by Kari O’Dell:  Kari creates lasting memories by planning customized vacations all over the world.  Not only does she find you the BEST accommodations with the BEST value, but she will fill in all the blanks for you, all at no cost to you.  Traveling is her passion!  Passing that magic on to your family is what fuels that passion!  If you are ready to save on your next vacation book your next vacation with Kari at 434-609-2370 or kari@destinationsinflorida.com.

Norwegian Escape Cruise Debuts Today

Norwegian Cruise Line is launching its newest and most revolutionary new ship today! The brand new Norwegian Escape offers the ultimate vacation experience with new tastes, new thrills and new pleasures to explore. Premiering today (Nov 9, 2015) in Miami, Norwegian Escape will showcase all it has to offer during a preview cruise that we are excited to enjoy and share with you!

Norwegian Escape promises to take us on an exploration of flavors both fantastically familiar and intoxicatingly foreign at The Food Republic by the Pubbelly Boys; have us singing along to 80s hits with For the Record inside The Supper Club; send us seeking every thrill on the Ropes Course and much more!

In additional to all the fantastic entertainment that’s included with a typical Norwegian cruise, our preview cruise will include the ship’s Christening with her Godfather, Pitbull!

Follow Along with us!

We will share photos and videos from the ceremony and the preview cruise this week. Follow along on Twitter, Facebook and watch for live Periscope broadcast links to be posted on both! We are excited to share this incredible vacation with you!

Twitter: @WDWFan

Facebook: Destinations in Florida Travel

Periscope: https://www.periscope.tv/DestinationsinFL

More About Norwegian Escape

The massive Norwegian Escape is 172 feet from height of plank to sea level, and 1,065 feet long, making it the fifth largest cruise ship ever built. The ship features 12 pools and hot tubs, 21 bars and lounges, and 28 distinct dining options. The cruise ship can accommodate more than 4,000 guests.

The Escape hosts the cruise line’s first ocean front promenade, and the first at-sea restaurants for Miami’s Potbelly Restaurant Group and Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville.

The action continues on deck with a three-story adventure ropes course featuring more than 2,000 feet of rope, a tandem racing water slide, mini-golf and an adults-only waterfall grotto.

In addition to family oceanview staterooms that accommodate up to five guests, Norwegian Escape’s accommodations include Studios, designed and priced for solo travelers; and many options for families, multi-generational groups, spa enthusiasts and more.

Norwegian Escape will set sail for weekly seven-day sailings from PortMiami starting on November 14th.

To book a cruise on Norwegian Escape, or to learn more about the ship’s luxurious accommodations, as well as its distinctive dining, entertainment, shopping and leisure options, contact Destinations in Florida Travel.

Contact Us for a Free, No-Obligation Quote Today!

877-918-8941 or Request a Price Online

If you have been to Disney World, it is no surprise to you that everything can add up rather fast. But Walt Disney World does offer numerous free activities available to you and your family. Over the years, our family has found some favorite free activities but our favorites are always changing as there are so many free activities available. Some of our favorites have been riding the monorail while in the front with the driver, partaking in Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom, sampling drinks at Club Cool in Epcot and experiencing night vision at Animal Kingdom Lodge. No matter the age of your children there are suitable free activities for all

For your next Walt Disney World vacation with kids make sure to add these FREE activities to your itinerary.

1. Become a Wilderness Explorer at Animal Kingdom Park when you collect over 30 badges as you complete challenges all while learning about cultures around the world as well as wildlife.
2. Enjoy fireside marshmallows and campfire activities at select Disney Resort locations. Make sure to check-out the campfire activities at Fort Wilderness for a special meeting with Chip and Dale. (Choose to bring your own marshmallows and sticks or purchase a kit)
3. Check-out the “Movies Under the Stars” outdoor movies on select nights at Disney Resorts.
4. Swing by Harmony Barber Shop on Main Street, U.S.A. for a free pixie dust of hair confetti.
5. Make a pit stop at any Kidcot Fun Stop around World Showcase at Epcot for a kid friendly craft as well as fun interaction with a Cast Member from each country.

Written by Kari O’Dell:  Kari creates lasting memories by planning customized vacations all over the world.  Not only does she find you the BEST accommodations with the BEST value, but she will fill in all the blanks for you, all at no cost to you.  Traveling is her passion!  Passing that magic on to your family is what fuels that passion!  If you are ready to save on your next vacation book your next vacation with Kari at 434-609-2370 or kari@destinationsinflorida.com.

Disney legend has it that a fierce and powerful hurricane roared across the sea, hurling surfboards and small boats into trees and buildings and even impaling a shrimp boat on the peak of a mountain. Left in its wake was a water park filled with roaring rapids, relaxing rivers and twisting slides. Typhoon Lagoon was born.

It’s easy to spend a full day here taking in the many slides, tube rides, and more. Get your thrill on at Crush N Gusher, a fast, gravity-defying water coaster. You can even glide through a salt water lagoon and snorkel with sharks at Shark Reef. And the wave pool at Typhoon Lagoon is not your father’s wave pool, catch a huge wave and body surf your way to shore. After all that excitement, you may want to take a relaxing ride through Castaway Creek, a lazy river that takes you through grottoes, rainforests and waterfalls. And for the littlest adventurers, you’ll want to check out Ketchakiddee Creek, An interactive world of slides, fountains and waterfalls designed especially for young children.

Plan to check it out on your next vacation. It’s a water lover’s paradise.

Written by Laura Schindler: Laura creates lasting memories by planning customized vacations all over the world. Not only does she find you the BEST accommodations with the BEST value, but she will fill in all the blanks for you, all at no cost to you. Traveling is her passion! Passing that magic on to your family is what fuels that passion! If you are ready to save on your next vacation book your next vacation with Laura at laura@destinationsinflorida.com.

Save Money at Be Our Guest Restaurant at Disney’s Magic Kingdom Park

Dinner at Be Our Guest Restaurant at Magic Kingdom Park is one of the most sought after reservations at Walt Disney World! Allison is here today with another money-saving tip that can help you save on your visit to Be Our Guest Restaurant!

The following is the Be Our Guest Restaurant Lunch Menu as of November 2015. Check Walt Disney World’s website for more info. Menu items and prices are subject to change without notice.

Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride first opened at the Magic Kingdom Park in Walt Disney World back in 1971. It was one of the Magic Kingdoms opening attractions, but in 1998 it was replaced by the Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. This ride’s story was based on Disney’s adaptation of The Wind in the Willows.

Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride features two different tracks. On Track One riders passed through the rural English countryside. After passing through a small room with several warning signs, guests made a turn into a central plaza where a police officer is signaling riders with his whistle. Guests then made a right turn into the courtroom as the judge declared Mr. Toad guilty. Then the vehicles entered several jail cells. After winding through the cells, guests emerged out into a dark scene, passing by a shootout between police and gunmen. Several of the police barriers then moved aside revealing a railroad crossing, complete with a ringing bell. The gate then moved aside, and then your car made a turn onto the tracks. The cars then traveled along the railroad tracks, until getting hit by a train.

Track Two passed through two scenes not seen in Track #1: Toad’s trophy room and a Gypsy camp. After rounding the plaza, guests continued and entered Winky’s Tavern. The cars then made a turn and guests could see the Weasels hiding out in the Tavern among the ale barrels. Following this, guests emerged into the night countryside. Passing by a small house, the vehicles reached a railroad crossing with ringing bell. This gate moved aside, and cars made a turn onto the railroad tracks until you are hit by a train. A door then opened and once again you are in Hell.

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 an enchanting vacation. I am 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.  

The newest resort to Universal Orlando Resorts is the family friendly Cabana Bay Beach Resort. This resort offers both moderate and value priced rooms in a fun retro theme. While enjoying your stay at Cabana Bay Beach Resort, you will have the choice of either a standard room (sleeps up to 4) or a family suite (sleeps up to 6).

While the rooms at Cabana Bay Beach Resort are filled with nostalgic blasts from the past that are fun for all ages, it is the recreation offerings of this resort that set it apart from other similar resorts. Boredom will never be an issue while staying at Cabana Bay Beach Resort. This resort offers two huge pools complete with a wonderful lazy river and slide, poolside activities such as ping pong, bean bag toss, and pool tables.

At Cabana Bay Beach Resort, you can get your sweat on at the vintage Jack Lalanne Physical Fitness Studio. But there is one activity that makes this resort stand out and is sure to thrill many. It’s the 10 lane bowling alley, Galaxy Bowl. If you are looking for a resort filled with fun for all ages while away from the parks, this resort is a perfect choice.

Staying at Cabana Bay Beach Resort at Universal Orlando is like staying at a 60’s beach motel while being on the doorstep of the most advanced theme parks in the world. As a resort guest, you will receive several great perks, such as early park admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, complimentary transportation to both theme parks and CityWalk, resort wide charging privileges, complimentary delivery of merchandised purchased to your resort as well as several other fun perks. 

Written by Kari O’Dell:  Kari creates lasting memories by planning customized vacations all over the world.  Not only does she find you the BEST accommodations with the BEST value, but she will fill in all the blanks for you, all at no cost to you.  Traveling is her passion!  Passing that magic on to your family is what fuels that passion!  If you are ready to save on your next vacation book your next vacation contact Kari at 434-609-2370 or kari@destinationsinflorida.com.

Whether you are a first time cruiser or have sailed the seas multiple times, Disney Fantasy is filled with adventures for the entire family. The Disney Fantasy sails year round from her Port Canaveral. Itineraries on the Fantasy are typically seven nights and include popular destinations such as The US Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, Cozumel, Cayman Islands, Jamaica, and of course Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.

Once on board, your family can start exploring. Head straight for the pool deck for a wet ride on the Aquaduck, or grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants and lounges. Maybe you like sports, head over to the sports plex and shoot some hoops, play mini golf or battle each other in ping pong.  Most importantly take a tour of the ship, this is the best way to get acquainted with your surroundings, don’t worry, by day two you will know where everything is.

Don’t forget to check the daily Disney Navigator to see when your favorite Disney character will be out for pictures and autographs. The Navigator also will show you the show times for Disney’s award winning entertainment offered on the ship, like Disney’s Believe, Disney’s Aladdin, and Disney’s Wishes. Also, your family will not want to miss the Pirate Party, which ends with fireworks. 

Disney offers a broad range of activities in the kids club that are free of charge and leave your children begging for more. For an additional charge, you can transform your child into a princess or a Pirate at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, or have a Tea with Cinderella.

Disney Cruise line isn’t just for kids. Each day you can relax with live music at the adult only pool, take a wine tasting class, and more. Enjoy a meal at Palo or Remy, an adult only specialty restaurant. Try the Lamb chops and chocolate Soufflé, they are delicious. 

Written by Pam Mikhail: Pam creates lasting memories by planning customized vacations all over the world. Not only does she find you the BEST accommodations with the BEST value, but she will fill in all the blanks for you, all at no cost to you. Traveling is her passion! Passing that magic on to your family is what fuels that passion! If you are ready to save on your next vacation book your next vacation with Pam at pam@destinationsinflorida.com.

What does everyone do while on summer vacation?  Play miniature golf of course!   There are several great miniature golf courses in Orlando to choose from.

Top 5 Mini Golf Orlando

1. Winter Summerland : Winter Summerland is located right beside the Blizzard Beach Water Park on Walt Disney World Property.   This course is a favorite with children as it has a summer course with sand and beaches and a winter course with Santa and his elves.   My children love to play this course in the summer time because of its Christmas theme. 
2. Fantasia Gardens : Fantasia Gardens is Disney’s second course located next to the Swan and Dolphin.  The miniature golf course is built after Fantasia, the Disney movie which merged animation with classical music pieces.   In addition to the miniature golf course, it has a more difficult course for more experienced golfers. The difficult course does not have the colorful obstacles but is truly a challenge for any golfer.  
3. Hollywood Drive In Golf : Hollywood Drive in Golf is located at Universal City Walk at Universal Studios Florida.   This location has two courses Sci-Fi and Haunted.   Don’t let the names scare you away as the courses are not scary so young children will be able to play with no worries.   The Sci-fi course includes many scenes that throw back to our childhood sci-fi films and The Haunted Course is full of spooky ghosts and goblins.  
4. Congo River Golf : Located on I Drive is in the heart of restaurants and tourist activities, the draw of this course is that you get to feed alligators.   They do have an arcade as well.   While the course itself isn’t as impressive as the others listed, the gator feeding is a draw to families with young kids.  
5. Pirate Cove : Pirate Cove is one of the most popular courses in the area as the obstacles are impressive and fashioned after pirates.    They have cannons that fire, a pirate ship, and many pirate flags and treasure chests.   There are two locations.  One location is on I drive and one is across the street from Downtown Disney.   

Kristi Gregory lives in Orlando with her husband and two boys.  Who better to plan a trip to Universal than a local who visits Universal 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.