Pool Cabanas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort

Indulge in a private cabana at the whimsical Beach Pool, adjacent to the shore of Seven Seas Lagoon. Book a beachside cabana at select Resort hotels for a relaxing day or fun-filled evening by the pool.

Enjoy the exclusive use of a shaded oasis equipped with virtually everything you could want for a half day, full day or evening.

Cabanas can be rented by Guests of the following Walt Disney World Resort hotels:

• Disney’s Contemporary Resort
• Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Guests must be staying at the Disney Resort hotel where the cabana is located and will need to present a room key at time of cabana check-in. One Guest in the party must be at least 18 years old.

Standard Cabana Amenities

SeaWorld Thrill Ride – Manta Roller Coaster

One of our favorite thrill rides in Orlando is Manta Roller Coaster at Sea World. Check out the video below to experience this roller coaster. Find out what it’s like to spin, glide, skim and fly like a giant ray when you experience Manta® – the only flying roller coaster of its kind in the world. Riders are taunted by a head-first, face-down inverted nosedive… and that’s just the beginning. Experience the full force and power of riding the high seas, all on one of the smoothest tracks in the world.

Non-riders are in for their own kind of thrill in the Manta Aquarium, with 10 stunning underwater habitats, over 100 rays, and thousands of colorful fish.

After you’ve returned to land, don’t forget to stop by Stingray Lagoon, where you can feel over 200 rays as they glide just beneath the surface of their habitat’s peaceful waters.

Guests using manual and electrical wheelchairs who would like to ride Manta will enter through the main ride entrance.

Universal Orlando CityWalk Hollywood Drive-in Golf

As Orlando locals, we love playing mini golf with our families! One of our favorite mini golf courses and what we consider the best mini golf in Orlando is Hollywood Drive-In Golf at Universal Orlando at CityWalk.

More About Hollywood Drive-In Golf: The two all-new, state-of-the-art 18-hole courses are unlike any other miniature golf experience. Inspired by the 1950’s era, guests enter a classic drive-in theater box office area where they select either a “single-feature” (18-holes) or “double-feature” (36-holes) with a choice of two family friendly courses, “The Haunting of Ghostly Greens” and “Invaders From Planet Putt.” Based on vintage horror flicks and “little green men” science fiction films, guests putt through elaborate movie-style scenes, passing through a cemetery, under a giant spider, around an enormous alien robot, through the open mouth of a giant space worm, and into the basement lab of a towering haunted house. Cutting-edge interactive elements and special effects immerse guests further into the “double feature,” and LED neon edge-lighting allows play during the day, night, and late night.

Lazy River at Aquatica

Imagine a lazy river, but with rapids!  Roas Rapids at Aquatica WaterPark is the ultimate “lazy river” with quick speeds whirling you through the river.  Float on your back or grab a life jacket and enjoy the ride!

Roa’s Rapids race you along an action river ride through the white waters of Aquatica, SeaWorld’s Waterpark™.

Get ready for an awesome adventure through a roaring sea of high tides, swirling whirlies, and gushing geysers- all at speeds that leave ordinary river rides eating this one’s wake.

Video Overview of  Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Disney’s Contemporary Resort opened it’s doors in 1971, but remains one of Walt Disney World’s most popular resorts today. It’s located on the monorail line and is also just a short walk to Magic Kingdom Park. Because of it’s proximity to the park, many rooms offer views of the nightly fireworks! Some of the most popular Walt Disney World restaurants are also located here too — Chef Mickey’s and California Grill. If you are thinking about a stay at one of the Deluxe Disney resort hotels, consider Disney’s Contemporary Resort one of the top choices. Take a look around the resort with the overview video below:

Retreat to this ultra-modern Resort hotel and discover award-winning dining, white-sand beaches, spectacular views and dazzling pools. Walk to Magic Kingdom park, or catch the Resort Monorail as it breezes through the iconic A-frame Contemporary Tower. Inside, a 90-foot-tall mural by Disney Legend Mary Blair—responsible for the distinct look and feel of the “it’s a small world” attraction—celebrates the Grand Canyon and the American Southwest.

Cool off at 2 pools located on the shore of Bay Lake. Glide down the 17-foot-high, curving waterslide at the feature pool, and relax in one of 2 whirlpool spas. Children can even make a splash in the water playground designed just for kids.

You can also escape to Bay Pool, the all-ages quiet pool that juts out over Bay Lake. Soak up the sun from a lounge chair on the deck, or rent a private cabana for added luxury.

Key West SeaWorld Orlando

Imagine touching Sting Rays and dolphins during your Orlando vacation!  Sea World Orlando features a section called Key West that includes just these experiences, along with dining and shopping.  This section is a true Key West adventure!

Do you love dolphins? Then, this experience is for you! Spend up-close time with bottlenose dolphins at Dolphin Cove®, and you’ll quickly understand what makes these clever characters one of the park’s most popular animals. You’ll learn how our animal team takes care of these amazing mammals and have the opportunity to touch the dolphins while our park photographers capture that special moment. Guests can also purchase packages that include touching the dolphins and having their photos taken with them under a trainer’s supervision. Those 10-minute packages start at $15 per person — but they do not include feeding the dolphins.

Boma-Flavors of Africa is located in Jambo House at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge resort. It is a wonderful table service dining experience that is a unique and delicious. There is something to please every taste bud at Boma! The restaurant is themed after an African marketplace with thatched roof carving stations, colorful decor and an open kitchen that features a wood-burning grill and rotisserie.

Lunch and dinner are served at side-by-side buffet stations at Boma. The menu is inspired by dishes from over 50 African countries. In addition to the tastes and textures of exotic African cuisines, traditional American favorites are included to make it very family-friendly. If you have special dietary requirements, let your server know and the chef will personally guide you to the foods that suit your needs.

During breakfast hours you can enjoy African pastries, made-to-order omelets, French toast bread pudding, corned beef hash, pancakes, carved meats including, turkey, ham and corned beef as well as an inviting display of fresh fruit. African dishes like Pap (maize porridge) and Chakalaka (spicy vegetable relish) are offered. Be sure to taste the Bobotie-a type of meatloaf with an egg based topping. It’s really good.  A glass of their specialty blended fruit juice or a press pot of Kenyan coffee will start you off to a great Disney day!

The dinner hours are filled with more culinary delights with offerings that include roasted meats, grilled seafood and vegetarian dishes. The soup selection is amazing. My personal favorite is the Butternut Squash Soup. You will find assorted salads and freshly prepared mouth-watering desserts, including the famous Zebra Domes! There is a separate station with kid-friendly foods like chicken, mashed potatoes and macaroni & cheese. Boma-Flavors of Africa features a very large selection of beverages and cocktails. Why not try something a little different to go with your African-inspired meal?

Consider adding a meal at Boma-Flavors of Africa during your next Walt Disney World vacation.  It is an experience that will bring you back again and again!

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 at sheri@destinationsinflorida.com.

New! Star Wars Disney Cruise

In early 2016, Disney Cruise Line guests can celebrate the legendary adventures and iconic characters of the Star Wars saga during a brand-new event of galactic proportions: Stars Wars Day at Sea. Marking the first official appearance of the heroes and villains of Star Wars aboard a Disney Cruise Line ship, Star Wars Day at Sea combines the power of the Force and the magic of Disney—for a day of fun more powerful than you could possibly imagine.

Star Wars Day at Sea will transport guests to a “galaxy” far, far away—in the Western Caribbean. The event features a full day of Star Wars celebrations, including:

*Deck party celebration
*Meet-and-greets with favorite Star Wars Characters
*Star Wars-themed activities for younglings of all ages
*Out-of-this-world food and beverage offerings
*Exclusive merchandise and more

With the only at-sea screenings of Episode VII, this event will thrill Padawans (Jedi in training) and Jedi Masters in every family. It is … your destiny.

World Class Shopping During Your Orlando Vacation

Photo: Simon Premium Outlets

Whether you need to pick up forgotten items during your trip or you just want to get away from the hustle of the Orlando theme parks, the Orlando shopping scene offers something for everyone. Orlando currently has eight major shopping malls, and three of those malls are outlet malls. These outlet malls boast savings of 25-65% off retail prices at many popular major retailers. Domestic and international tourists alike can save a bundle shopping at the outlets. The three outlets malls that are located in Orlando and are close to the tourist area are:

Orlando Premium Outlets International Drive, 4951 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819 (Map)

Shopping:

Orlando Premium Outlets is the closest to Universal Resorts and features the Disney’s Character Warehouse, which is a clearinghouse for the out of season and surplus Disney merchandise. Some of the largest stores there are Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th, Neiman Marcus Last Call, Victoria’s Secret, Polo Ralph Lauren, Coach, Nike and Forever 21.

Getting there: You can take I-4 East to the 75A – Universal exit. Follow to International Drive and turn left. The center is located at the North End of International Drive.  The I-Ride trolley stops there too, every 15 minutes. Trolley stop # 1. (More info about the tolley at www.iridetrolley.com)

Orlando Premium Outlets Vineland Road, 8200 Vineland Avenue, Orlando, FL 32821 (Map)

Shopping:

This outlet mall is close to Downtown Disney. It also has the Disney Characters Warehouse, but this location has a much larger variety of items than the Premium outlets.  Some of the largest stores there are Banana Republic, Adidas, Tommy Hilfiger, Coach, Nike and J. Crew.

Getting there:

You can take I-4 Westbound, exit 68 (Rte. 535). Left at light onto Route 535, left at next light onto Vineland Avenue at Little Lake Bryan; proceed 1 mile.  They also offer a free shuttle service from participating hotels on International Drive, and the I-Ride trolley stops there every 15 minutes. Trolley stop # 42. (More info about the tolley at www.iridetrolley.com)

More Information:

Don’t forget to check out the Orlando Premium Outlets website,  http://www.premiumoutlets.com/  They offer tons of information about their stores and the option to join the VIP Shoppers Program, which features Exclusive Online Coupons, Voucher for a Free VIP Coupon Book, Deals Around Town, Insider Info from Your Favorite Brands, Email Updates: Sales & Special Events, and more.

Premium Outlets also offer discounts for our men and women in the military.  Members of the military, veterans and their families can show their IDs at the on-site Information Center all year long to receive a free VIP Coupon Book. Plus, join the VIP Shopper Club for free access to exclusive online coupons.

Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores, 15657 S Apopka Vineland Road (State Road 535), Orlando, Fl 32821-6316 (Map)

Photo: Lake Buena Vista Factory Store

Shopping: 

This mall is nearest to Walt Disney World.  It has similar merchandise as the other two malls but is the smallest of the three. Some of the largest stores there Tommy Hilfiger, Reebok, Old Navy Outlet and VF Outlet.

Getting there:

From I-4, take  exit 68, 2 miles south on S Apopka Vineland Rd (State Road 535). The Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores provides FREE scheduled shopping shuttle to and from select participating hotels.

More Information:

Lake Buena Vista Factory also has a great website with loads of information for shoppers: http://lbvfs.com.  Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores also has a members club that offers great deals and printable  coupons for shoppers.

Written by Michelle “Princess Traveling Pants” Durdan.  From the budget conscious family with kids to the retirees wanting the vacation of a lifetime, Michelle is your one stop destination for your dream vacation.  Book your next vacation with Michelle at 262-613-1435 or michelle@destinationstoexplore.com.

Additional Tree of Life Carvings Added at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park has a lot of construction ongoing right now.  One of the newest projects just finished in front of the Tree of Life. Part of this project includes new animal carvings.  Check out this video of the new carvings.