Go florida mag Action July 13

Animal Kingdom

FREE

Wild 9-page guide inside

Disney’s FastPass How to use it and beat the queues

Orlando’s Newest Ride Help save the planet in Transformers The Ride 3D

SUMMERTIME

SPLASH

WHICH PARK RIDES LEAVE YOU SOAKED! ACTION ACTION ACTION Theme Parks, other attractions and MUCH MUCH MORE

New&Upcoming what Space Shuttle Atlantis

where Kennedy Space Center

when Open Now

New&Upcoming what Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin

where SeaWorld

when Open NOW

56

CONTENTS We try 3 exciting new experiences in ‘Never Done That Before’

TitanaitcTitanic

% off this Get 20 ce with ial n ie r e p c Ex her spe t o d in o. ad. F t ads to n u o c is d

10

f Relaxation A Typhoon o ages 49 - 54 on p

37

35

FEATURES 10 Around the Parks

37 Water Rides

65 DetOUR Orlando

Theme park news, hints & tips including the latest Harry Potter expansion plans

Find out which water rides give the biggest and best soaking

Local expert Kimbra takes a visit to a ‘colourful’ location

46 Typhoon Lagoon

64 When to go

The fun don’t stop even when you’re chilling out at this Disney water park

Helpful advice on the best time for YOUR vacation of a lifetime

14 Transformers 3D Just opened, join Optimus Prime and get ready for the greatest battle you’ll ever ride

19 Fastpass Explained Disney’s free ‘reservation’ system – The what, where, how & why

23 Shoot-em up We take aim at Buzz Lightyear, Men in Black and Toy Story Mania

24 Animal Kingdom Take a tour around this wild and nature-full theme park

55 Other Attractions Cirque Du Soleil’s La Nouba – Aweinspiring, enough said!

56 3 Never Done That 3 more unique experiences found in Central Florida

58 Ripley’s Believe it or not ! Read Peter King’s report on this fascinating I-Drive attraction

68 Our Top Check out our favourite other Florida destinations, reasons to visit and ‘often missed’ little gems.

See the best theme park attractions and rides too.

Fantastic tips, advice and stories, all to make sure you have the best Florida visit ever!

From the

EDITOR...

Animal Kingdom

FREE

Wild 9-page guide inside

Disney’s FastPass

How to use it and beat the queues

Orlando’s Newest Ride

Help save the planet in Transformers The Ride

3D

SUMMERTIME

SPLASH

WHICH PARK RIDES LEAVE YOU SOAKED !

ACTION ACTION ACTION

Theme Parks, other

attractions and MUCH

MUCH MORE

EDITORIAL TEAM Editor: James King

james.king@gofloridamag.com

Art Editor: Vicky Nash

vicky.nash@gofloridamag.com

DESIGN TEAM Design Editor: Paul Draper

paul.draper@gofloridamag.com

Head Designer: Carla da Cruz

carla.da.cruz@gofloridamag.com

With thanks to Jen Foster

CONTRIBUTORS THIS ISSUE Peter King, Ryan Curtis, Susan King, Liam Hudson, Darren Tracy, Michael Krajewski, Ryan Hudson

I

t’s another scorching hot summer in Orlando, welcome to our third issue – Summertime Action, where we bring you what’s hot and what’s cool. Being at the parks in August is not the most comfortable of places to be, so we show you which rides will reduce your temperature with a soaking.

Still not chilled enough? read Peter King’s advice on having even more fun in the sun, at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park.

Animal Kingdom recently celebrated its fifteenth year anniversary, our in-depth feature highlights why this beautiful park is so underestimated. We also tell you why and how to use Disney’s FastPass, dare to believe at Ripleys and fantastic images of some New & Upcoming attractions to the area.

Finally, you will notice more adverts and more importantly, more discount offers. Please take advantage of them and mention GO Florida magazine whenever you can whilst in Orlando.

Don’t forget to get in touch via facebook or email, let us know how you keep cool and your favourite water rides.

We would love to hear from you.

TO ADVERTISE IN THE MAGAZINE Please contact Derek on +44 (0) 7565 519505 derek@gofloridamag.com Sponsorship, editorials and Ipad splash opportunities available

CONTACT US Customer Services Wendy.hudson@gofloridamag.com Copyright© Go florida magazine GO florida magazine is the trading name of Sunshine Publishing Ltd company no: 08035971 Go florida magazine is not affiliated in anyway with any companies featured in the magazine.

FOLLOW US www.facebook.com/Gofloridamag WWW.GOFLORIDAMAG.COM

James King James King Editor

Download on all platforms

AROUND THE PARKS starts here...

Diagon Alley Arrives at Universal Studios to become the world’s first centrally themed, multi-park experience. The new ‘London’ area promises to be just as immersive and authentic as Hogwarts and Hogsmead found in I.O.A. Our recent visit shows work is well underway and is scheduled to open in 2014.

Amongst the new shops and restaurants, the headline attractions include a rollercoaster ride based upon Gringotts Bank and just like the films, travel between ‘London’ and Hogsmead aboard the Hogwarts express.

We will bring you more details of this historic addition as they are released.

SPRINGFIELD COMES TO ORLANDO Enter the world of the Simpsons like never before as guests can walk the street of Springfield, grab a Krustycertified meat sandwich at Krusty Burger and even wash it down with a Duff beer.

A new attraction called ‘Kang & Kodos’ twirl and hurl will take ‘foolish humans’ on an intergalactic spin designed to send them into orbit.

Look out for Krusty the Clown and Sideshow Bob as they appear for the first time too.

MAKE A WISH

a : c i Empire t c r a t n of the A ill a h c e h t l Fee

n i u g n e t SeaWo P rld’s ne w attraction

M

ay 24th saw massive queues for the opening of SeaWorld’s much-awaited penguin ride and exhibition. Guests waited for many hours to be amongst the first to encounter the unique, 8-person saucer-type vehicle taking them “tracklessly” to the South Pole.

Thrill seekers could choose the “wild” expedition spinning and twisting them along the way, while the “mild” option offers a smoother ride travelling through ice-caverns, past colourful

icicles, following Puck the penguin’s exciting life journey from birth to adulthood.

Temperatures drop to below freezing when you disembark to watch Rock Hopper, King, Gentoo and Adelie penguins diving into icy waters and swimming below the surface.

This one of a kind family ride gives you the opportunity to experience up close the icy world of penguins in their natural environment.

Cinderella’s Wishing Well at Magic Kingdom has been the launching pad for millions of wishes. Gathering up the small coins and pennies tossed by hopeful guests, Walt Disney World Resort donated $15 000 to the Foundation for Foster Children.

The non-profit organization helps children living with foster families realise some of their own wishes.

Recharge your batteries @ Ellen’s Energy Adventure The perfect place to escape the maddening midday crowds and heat this summer, Ellen’s Energy Adventure is a haven of cool, dark and quiet.

Located at Epcot, spend 45 refreshing minutes on an indoor discovery of energy from prehistoric times to modern day with Ellen DeGeneres, Jamie Lee Curtis and Bill Nye.

ONE SMALL STEP, ONE GIANT EXHIBIT A new exhibition at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex gives you the opportunity to almost touch the stars. Simply named, Space Shuttle Atlantis, this $100 million, 90,000 square foot unique attraction, provides guests with a chance to get nose to nose with the priceless, historic Atlantis spacecraft.

Exclusive to the Kennedy Space Center is the shuttle orbiter that flew into space 33 times still baring the scars and space dust from its last trip.

Guests get almost 360 degree viewing access to

the Atlantis as it tilts on its side at a 43.21 degree angle, with its payload doors open. Previously only a few astronauts were lucky enough to see this configuration - as it undocked from the International Space Station.

The Atlantis isn’t the only attraction in the exhibition, visitors can also enjoy a variety of experiences such as piloting the Atlantis to a safe landing, training like an astronaut and even sitting on the space potty. www.kennedyspacecenter.com

June 20th saw the grand opening with Steven Spielberg, Peter Cullen (voice of Optimus Prime) and Frank Welker (Megatron) witnessing an attack by the Decepticons on this new N.E.S.T. facility.

JOIN OPTIMUS PRIME AND PROTECT THE ALL-SPARK Having already been installed at Universal Studios in California and Singapore, meant a record build time of just one year and a day to bring this 3D motion simulator spectacular to Universal Orlando.

On-site restrictions meant this version is a logistical marvel as well as a technical one. Unbeknown to it’s riders the ride actually takes place over two floors with the ‘EVAC’

vehicle moving between floors as the action unfolds.

Massive 60ft wrap-around screens bring the Autobots and Decepticons to ‘life-size’ reality.

As a new N.E.S.T. recruit, your task is to assist in keeping the All-Spark safe, so head to base and board an EVAC vehicle. Updated briefings on the ensuing emergency are broadcast via large panel screens. With your protective glasses on (3D), head straight into the action. The street scenes are awe-inspiring and keep you fully immersed in the immense battle taking place right around you.

Transformers: The Ride 3D is a much needed addition to ‘the studios’ and it just might be the greatest battle you will ever ride. ●

Hints & Tips 1. Get to the parks EARLY

N O T I C E B O A R D

2. Use Disney’s FASTPASS it’s free!

3. SLOW DOWN tion you‘re on vaca

Special Tip FANTASMIC This awesome, amazing, not to be missed show takes place nightly at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

During busy periods this popular show can ‘sell-out’ 45 minutes before showtime.. We highly recommend waiting for the second showing (if there is one) as this is rarely full. It’s so worth staying-up late for and grabbing that centre seat.

Free WI-FI @parks the Disney

? ? y t s r i t & Th

Ho

RV I C E E S K QUIC Y N FR E E A A R O AS K T ER F COUN F WATER CU P O

y e n s i D k c e h C Extra Magic Hours

GO DO N’T TH E TO E ARLY AT HAS H PARK T EMH E ARLY

OAD D OW N L TI N G WAI W H I LE N E I N LI

REHABS SPACESHIP EARTH

Epcot OPENS: Aug 18 – Aug 24, 2013

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN Magic Kingdom OPENS: July 27 – July30, 2013

SPACE MOUNTAIN Magic Kingdom

OPENS: Various midweek in Sept, 2013

RAILROAD EXPRESS Magic Kingdom

OPENS: Sept 30 – Oct 20, 2013

PETER PAN Magic Kingdom

OPENS: Sept 30 – Nov 13, 2013

MUPPETVISION 3D HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS

OPENS: Aug 6 – Sept 2, 2013

HONEY SHRUNK KIDS PLAYGROUND HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS Magic Kingdom OPENS: Sept 3 – Nov 11, 2013

We Recommend

IN BRIEF

Get to SeaWorld’s ‘Clyde & Seamore Take Pirate Island’ show at least 20 minutes early to see the highly comical mime act preshow, arriving late could mean you become the star of the show!

‘Cabin in the woods’ horror This fall, Universal Orlando resort is unleashing hell by bringing to life Lionsgate hit horror film “The Cabin in the Woods” at it’s terrifyingly immersive Halloween Horror Nights event.

“A Pirate’s Adventure: Treasures of the Seven Seas” a new interactive

experience where guests participate in pirate raids throughout Adventureland at Disney’s Magic Kingdom.

Falcon’s Fury Drops In

Superstar Actresses @ Epcot

From Spring 2014, Busch Gardens is taking guests’ experiences to new heights with Falcon’s Fury, the first drop tower of its kind anywhere. Standing a giddy 335 feet high, riders soar 60mph, straight down in the Falcon hunting dive position! Construction in the Timbuktu area of the park has already begun.

This year’s provisional narrator line-up for the Christmas Candlelight Processional at Epcot has been announced. Taking to the stage with a 50-piece orchestra and mass choir will be, amongst other celebrities, Hollywood superstars, Sigourney Weaver, Ashley Judd and Whoopi Goldberg. Listen as they tell the biblical tale of a saviour born in Bethlehem, beautifully interwoven with music of hope and joy.

Go to www.FalconsFury.com for more updates.

Running on select nights from September 20 through to November 2, this horrifying Halloween experience features highly-themed disturbingly-real haunted houses while the streets are filled with hundreds of specially trained “scareactors” This year (Halloween Nights 23) guests will step inside the menacing cabin from the movie and fend off a malicious family of zombies. Just like in the film, guests will flee from the cabin only to encounter more bloodthirsty monsters!

Soccer Star Transfers to N.E.S.T 2013 PFA Player and Young Player of the Year, Tottenham’s Gareth Bale takes a break from banging in the goals, as the latest English Premier League season ends. Used to battling the likes of Manchester United and Arsenal, we wondered how he got on as a N.E.S.T recruit against the mighty Decepticons. During a recent visit to Universal Studio’s, Gareth experienced their newest attraction, Transformers The Ride 3D. Did he get the better of Megatron just as he did against numerous goalkeepers this past season?

New&Upcoming what Princess Hall

where Magic Kingdom

when Fall 2013

6 Top Tips...

DISNEY’S FASTPASS 1 WHAT IS IT?

“

BE SURE TO RETURN WITHIN YOUR HOUR LONG WINDOW

“

Fastpass is a free hour-long ‘reservation’ system for some of the major rides and attractions at the four Disney theme parks, meaning a much shorter waiting time in line.

Many of the popular rides and attractions can easily have wait times of over 60 minutes, Fastpass can reduce that to less than 10 minutes.

A set number of passes are issued in 5 minute time blocks What will you do with that extra time you have saved waiting in line?

Well we use ours to join another line! ☺

2 HOW IT WORKS Near the entrance to a ‘Fastpass’ attraction will be a clock showing the return time for the current Fastpass distribution.

If that time is suitable, insert your park ticket or valid admission pass into the nearby ticket machine and out pops your Fastpass ticket (plus your park ticket).

Return to the Fastpass entrance within the allocated hour for quick, easy access to the front of the line. ! Not all Fastpasses are created equal ! Some take you right to the front of the ride queue whilst others take you ‘Fast’ to the pre-show point.

IT’S FREE FOR EVERYONE TO USE, SAVING YOU HOURS OF WAITING, ESPECIALLY AT BUSY TIMES

3 TIME MANAGEMENT A little thought and pre-planning is recommended to get the very best from FP, especially at the Magic Kingdom.

How busy the park is will play a big part in your strategy, quieter days means FP provides a quick repeat ride option.

Peak periods can have Space Mountain and the like with 90 minute wait times, this is when FP is a vital time-saving tool. The biggest rides have the longest queues so plan to use FP on these when possible.

Obviously arriving early at the parks gives you the greatest flexibility to utilise FP to suit yourselves the most.

FP TIP: Check at the bottom of your FP ticket for the earliest time that you can get your next one.

4 WHICH RIDES? Magic Kingdom Space Mountain, Thunder Railroad, Splash Mountain, Buzz Lightyear, Town Square Theatre, The Barnstormer, Jungle Cruise, Peter Pan, Winnie the Pooh, Dumbo Hollywood Studios Tower of Terror, Rock n Roller Coaster, Toy Story Mania, Star Wars Animal Kingdom Expedition Everest, Dinosaur, Kali River Rapids, Kilimanjaro Safari, Primeval Whirl EPCOT Test Track, Soarin, Mission Space, Captain EO, Maelstrom.

ACT FAST FOR TOY STORY MANIA AND SOARIN AS THEY OFTEN “SELL-OUT” OF PASSES BY LUNCHTIME

5 THE RULES FP is a very simple system but here are some rules / FAQ’s A: Everyone (3 & over) must have their own F.P. ticket B: You must return within the allotted hour printed on your pass

D: You can get another FP as soon as your current pass starts or two hours after you last pass was dispensed, whichever is sooner.

E: There is no limit to the number of passes you can have in one day.

6 FASTPASS PLUS Disney’s has started to roll-out it’s $2 billion investment in ‘customer experience’ technology which includes Fastpass Plus. By using the ‘My Disney Experience’ website or app, guests can pre-book their Fastpasses in advance. This will be awesome, saving you running around to get them, plus knowing you have your Toy Story Mania ticket before you even arrive.

Nothing has been confirmed and management are rumoured to be testing it as we speak.

It is also thought that firework and parade viewing plus character meet and greets can, for the first time, be also reserved.

We are sure that whatever happens Fastpass plus will certainly enhance your day at Disney.

“

USE ONE PERSON TO COLLECT THE PASSES FROM THE TICKET MACHINE

“

C: Do not try cutting into the FP line without a valid pass, tickets are collected just before you board the ride.

Exciting was to see the true wild side of Florida

Headwaters to the Florida Everglades

Offering 1-Hour 90-Min. and 2-Hour Tours

Reviews on TripAdvisor

Orlando Airboat Tours Orlando Airboat Tours/Marsh Landing Adventures offers the closest Airboat Eco-Tour to all the Central Florida Attractions. We are a premier Eco-Tour on small 6

passenger private airboats that take you on an adventure into the headwaters of the Florida Everglades. Our fleet of airboats and Captains are US Coast Guard approved and properly insured. Enjoy nature at its finest on one of our 1-Hour, 90-Min., or 2-Hour tours.

You’ll see alligators, wildlife of all kinds, many species of birds and beautiful flora. Our tours are narrated and introduce you to the types of wildlife you’ll see and the history of the area of the early settlers. As these tours are in a The only natural, living environment taking Eco Tour closest you through the swamp marsh and wet prairie they are not only to all Orlando educational, but fun and enjoyable. theme parks An exceptional tour for all ages.

www.orlandoairboattours.com

407-572-3561 Orlando Airboat Tours 2271 East Irlo Bronson Hwy Kissimmee, FL 34744 ecotour.reservations@gmail.com

Shoot ‘em Up Fire away on these 3 rideon and shoot-em attractions but which one really hits the target?

Buzz Lightyear moves slowly through the gamma quadrant in a neon maze of constant targets battling Evil Emperor Zurg. A wilder ride spinning you out of this world is Men

in Black: Alien attack, zapping 120 species of alien, both small and large. First to the big red button nukes the enemy and bags a big bonus.

Play 5 different games including ring toss and balloon dart pop with the gang from Toy Story all in glorious 3D. Arrive at each screen for a

frenetic shoot up using the unique draw-string firing system.

The colour, theme and variety make Toy Story Mania our clear winner. Already 5 years old but sell-out fast passes every day proves it’s a real hit!

Buzz LightYear

Man in Black Alien Attack

Toy Story Mania

Magic Kingdom

Universal Studios

Hollywood Studios

None

42”

None

RIDE TIME

4 Minutes 30 Secs

5 Minutes

5 Minutes 30 Secs

SHOOTING TIME

Continually

Mainly free play

Only at each screen

Always something to shoot at

Fast spinning ride at times

3D and pull string firing

WHAT IT’S ABOUT

Stop Emperor Zurg from stealing batteries

Become a MIB recruit & protect New York

All the fun of carnival midway games

GUN TYPE

Fixed laser cannons

In hand laser blaster

Fixed pull string

BEST BIT

If ride stops you keep shooting & scoring

Making the other vehicle spin out

The bonus round

Early or late

Early or late or use single rider

Park opening Fastpass ASAP

WHERE HEIGHT RESTRICTION

WHY IT’S UNIQUE

WHEN TO GO OVERALL RATING

7 / 10

8 / 10

10 / 10

OUR WINNER

TREK TO THE WILD SIDE Follow the lush trails that lead to adventure and exploration. Every pathway provides an opportunity to encounter a different continent, different species or even a different time.

Travel this beautiful kingdom on a journey of discovery.

JUST ANOTHER ZOO? Although it is fully accredited by the various associations of Zoos and Aquariums, Disney went to great lengths to say “NAHTAZU”. Rides and shows are embedded into the fabric of the park but a strong conservation message is delivered throughout. Disney characters and the afternoon parade remind us you’re at Disney World.

WHO IS IT FOR? Both animal and nature lovers will obviously really enjoy this scenic park, whilst ‘adventurers’ can sample detailed re-creations of the exotic lands of Africa and Asia. Thrill seekers have Disney’s tallest ‘mountain’ to conquer, all 199 feet of Expedition Everest, then blast back in time to bring back a real live dinosaur. Theatre folk have three ‘Broadway’ productions to take in too.

IS HALF A DAY ENOUGH? Some complain that Animal Kingdom is not a full park and that could be true if you have visited before but there is plenty to see here. If you are only interested in nature or just the thrills then yes half a day is ‘do-able’.

We recommend slowing down to fully appreciate the beauty and natural wonder displayed at this unique theme park.

WHAT’S NOT TO MISS? Get there early and straight into the path of the Yeti on Expedition

Everest, then grab a fastpass for a repeat ride later. Perhaps start the day by venturing onto the Africa savannah aboard the Kilimanjaro Safari. Experience the pageantry and performance of a full stage musical in Festival of the Lion King. Check out your favourite animal for a wild time too.

CAN I GET CLOSER & SEE MORE? Yes, there are three behind the scenes or close-up ‘tours’ that offer the opportunity to see how this awesome park really works. See what’s involved in caring for over

1700 animals in the Backstage Safari, get REALLY close to hippos and crocs on a Wild Africa Trek or learn how the Disney imagineers painstakingly combined native art, authentic architecture indigenous flora with a sprinkle of storytelling magic, creating exotic lands of reality and fantasy, all inhabited by magnificent live animals.

Park Map AFRICA Visit an African village then venture out to see it’s amazing wildlife either by truck or on foot. Take the train to Rafiki’s planet watch for an update on Disney’s conservation efforts.

DISCOVERY ISLAND The hub of the park with the Tree of Life at its centre, under which you can experience the world as a bug. Plenty of dining options and look closely for some animal encounters.

ASIA Avoid the clutches of the Yeti, ride turbulent waters, then relax with an educational exotic bird show. Travel to Southeast Asia to find bats, tigers and the Komodo dragon.

DINOLAND U.S.A.

CAMP MINNIEMICKEY Home to the awesome Festival of the Lion King show and follow the greeting trails to meet Mickey Mouse and his pals.

OASIS Entrance to the park, get your map, buggy hire and Guest Relations. Rainforest Café is also here.

Experience all things dinosaur, dig site playgrounds, fairgrounds, whirling primeval coasters and journey back in time to grab a live one!

Witness spectacular music and stunning puppetry in the missing fish show!

CHOCOLATE KINGDOM FACTORY ADVENTURE TOUR

2858 Florida Plaza Blvd.

Kissimmee, FL 34746 â—? 407-705-3475 www.ChocolateKingdom.com Learn about how the cocoa bean becames a chocolate bar on our guided chocolate adventure tour. Tasting throuout the tour!

Located next to Fun Spot & Old Town, behind Pizza Hut on Hwy 192.

PANGANI FOREST TRAIL

MAHARAJAH JUNGLE TREK

THE TREE OF LIFE

A BEAUTIFUL PARK

TRICERA TOP SPIN

EXPEDITION EVEREST VIDEO

PRIMEVAL WHIRL VIDEO

DINOSAUR

KALI RIVER RAPIDS

WILD AFRICA TREK Did Kilimanjaro Safari leave you wanting more? This add-on tour invites intrepid explorers to up-close encounters with the safari wildlife. As part of the threehour expert-led adventure, guests clip onto a lifeline as they step to the very edge of a cliff to get amazingly close to the hippos and crocs lurking just below.

Following a short hike onto the sweeping Africa savannah, board a special truck for a VIP safari, including a visit to an exclusive camp with incredible views of everything from towering giraffe to powerful rhinos.

Prices from $189 include African inspired refreshments and a photo CD of images taken by a Disney photographer of your tour.

Prices from $189 include African inspired refreshments and a photo CD of images taken by a Disney photographer of your tour.

RIDE HEIGHT RESTRICTIONS You might be brave enough but are you tall enough?

Primeval Whirl

48”

Expedition Everest

44”

Dinosaur 40” Kali River Rapids

AVATAR LAND – WILL IT ARRIVE? 11/20/2011 Disney and film make James Cameron announce plans for an Avatar themed land stating “the siting of the land would be a natural fit in Animal Kingdom, a park where animals real, imagined and extinct are celebrated” Construction was expected to begin by 2013, but little has happened since although Disney executives have stated it will happen. The Disney Corporation have invested heavily on Star Wars and Marvel brands, while Cars Land has been a resounding success too.

Time will tell but A.K. certainly needs and has the space for, a ‘Harry Potter’ style land or world.

38”

Ever fancied taking an African safari, travelling through bush land savannahs and getting up real close to magnificent ‘free roaming’ animals? Have large creatures such as giraffe, white rhino and zebra all within touching distance (although no touching allowed!)?

How about boarding an open-side truck, crossing rickety old bridges with hungry Nile crocodiles snapping below? Or benefit from your eagle eyed tour guide as he points out a partly hidden Okapi, related to the giraffe but known as the ghost of the forest?

Want to zoom in to record a baby elephant playing with it’s mother or observe in the distance, the male lion watching over his playground from a rocky perch?

Like to learn how the savannah is a big eco-system where each animal group benefits from the presence of the other, seemly working together to provide access to food, shelter and water? Be educated on how the natural habitat is shaped and how the one thousand year old baobab tree reacts to thrive in such conditions?

Well all this and more can be experienced by taking a Kilimanjaro Safari tour. Trucks leave the Harambe Village approximately every three minutes, so come on, grab your binoculars and journey into a 25 minute, animal action packed adventure!

It’s show time!

Shows Flights of Wonder

Exotic Birds display their grace

Finding Nemo – The Musical Stunning puppetry & music

Festival of the Lion King

Big-as Broadway spectacular

DINING Yak & Yeti

Located in Asia, it’s the parks main full service restaurant and serves up a full range of dishes from the region.

Appetizers include Thai Chilli chicken wings and Dim Sum basket for two, the main speciality and most expensive dish on the menu is crispy Mahi Mahi. From the wok try stir-fried beef & broccoli or sweet & sour pork, with sides such as chicken fried rice, house stir-fried vegetables or pork egg rolls.

The building is spacious and those lucky enough to get a window seat on the second floor can watch the throng outside pass by. On hot days the air conditioning is really noticeable as is the Everest area themeing. Dining reviews are a little hit and miss but this is expected with this type of cuisine where personal tastes vary so much.

Not sure the name is really appropriate though!

Restaurantosaurus

Reminds us of the old blind dinosaur joke – do-you-thinkhe-sarus! Discovered in DinoLand USA, a quick service eatery with standard theme park fare of burgers, sandwiches, hot dogs and salads. Recommend the grilled chicken sandwich pictured here.

Trilo-Bites

Get your teeth into the legendary turkey leg,

OPTIONS

washed down with a frozen lemonade or a beer or two.

or pop-in later for pizzas, salads and sandwiches

Flame Tree BBQ

Isle of Java

Tuck into fall-off-the-bone ribs as you relax outside with river views and Mountain Everest in the near distance.

Although offering counter service with a limited menu, the Flame Tree is the favourite place to eat for many, with the onion rings very popular.

Tusker House Restaurant

With Donald’s Dining Safari Breakfast and Lunch Join Donald, Mickey, Goofy and Daisy for breakfast BEFORE the park opens. Get to walk this beautiful park when it is virtually deserted, as Tusker House is situated in Harambe Village, Africa. The usual breakfast buffet items are served here plus some ‘local’ specials too.

Lunchtime featuring more Africanflavoured dishes such as Seafood stew, vegetable samaosa, and cape malay curry chicken. Endless supply of rotisserie chicken, carved top sirloin and pork loin are the main attractions (after the characters that visit your table for photos and autographs of course).

There are plenty of ‘safe’ options and as you would expect, there is lots to keep any fussy young eater, happy too.

Pizzafari

Open early for breakfast platters and French toast

Quick stop for coffees, pastries, crispy treats, frozen beverages and sodas

Rainforest Café

You don’t need a park ticket to dine here as it is situated outside just before the gates (left-hand side). This national chain is big on everything; atmosphere, noise and portions! A huge fish tank, lush plants and trees, sound effects and animal audio-animatronics create a jungle environment.

Food wise is as you would expect, burgers, salads, chicken etc. All are big enough to share so we would suggest cutting out at least one dish and all tucking in.

Great for a fun, family dining experience.

down! e m a n r Get you book very n a c s t n a r u

e resta ly Table servic ke reservations as ear a / m quickly, so eyworld.com n is .d w w w at r W-DINE o as possible D -W 7 0 4 lling ns location. dine, by ca io t la e R t s e ny Gu by visiting a

General Info

Hints and Tips

Why we love it here

Disney’s Animal Kingdom 551 N Rainforest Road, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830

Get there early and head straight for Expedition Everest and Kilimanjaro Safari

It is a park that displays nature’s beauty from the many species of animal to the rich foliage that adorns every walkway

Tel: 407 824 4321 Tickets: Disney World tickets only Single day to Ultimate 21 Day Ticket (UK only) Size: The largest Disney park @ 550 acres Hours: 9am – 8pm Peak 9am – 5pm off peak Parking: $15 per day Website: https://disneyworld.disney. go.com/parks/animal-kingdom

• Don’t rush - Take the time to enjoy the lush and beautiful surrounding • It is large park so make sure you wear good walking shoes • Take the Kilimanjaro Safari first thing or late as the animals are most active then • Expedition Everest has a quicker single rider line • Consider taking lunch or dinner at the nearby Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort

•F amily – A gentle theme park experience not loads of thrill rides but enough for every age group to enjoy • Expedition Everest – The theme, the attention to detail, the going backwards – quite fast, the smile at the end •T ough to be a bug – There are some great 3D shows but the extra effects here are amongst the best.

Warning: many ‘little ones’ find it quite scary.

The THREE SHOWS are each different but all are excellently done.

Lion King show is obviously the most popular and not to be missed but Find Nemo runs a very close second.

SUMMER SPECIAL starts here...

it’s summer We all know that summertime in Florida feels somehow hotter than the surface of the sun. Luckily Orlando has numerous ways to keep cool and keep having fun. The obvious place is at one of the four awesome water parks, each one slightly different but all offering fun in the sun.

SeaWorld’s Aquatica for example features high-speed water slides and exhilarating wave pools, to tranquil beaches and remarkable animal habitats.

www.aquaticabyseaworld.com

SUMMERTIME

SPLASH WHICH PARK RIDES LEAVE YOU SOAKED!

The summer sun is scorching so dip ya toe in the water on these six theme park water rides. Read our reviews, note our ratings, watch the videos. How wet dare you get?

JURASSIC PARK RIVER ADVENTURE That iconic theme tune plays as you begin you River tour through the large gates of Jurassic Park. The soothing commentary matches the encounters with gentle giants of the era. However the mood changes after floating into an off-limits area, something has gone wrong, no humans, only dinosaurs!

As you travel through a darkened warehouse facility, your fears rise as the sounds and sights intensify. You realise you are heading straight toward a T-Rex, facing possible extinction, will you take the 85ft drop to survival?

Apart from the odd spray the only real encounter with water is a big one, plunging down the longest water drop in the world. A soaking is possible but it’s the atmospheric dinosaur adventure that makes it much more than a standard water chute ride.

WATCH THE VIDEO

Location Islands of Adventure Type of Ride / No. per Boat Large Water Chute / 25 passengers

Rating Splash

KALI RIVER RAPIDS Journey down the Chakrandi River and through rainforests of Asia in this wonderfully themed raft ride. After a 90-foot ascent, you pass lush jungle landscapes and through jasmine-scented mists.

WATCH THE VIDEO

Location

The water elements include gushing geysers and refreshing waterfalls, provide ‘opportunities’ to get wet.

Disney’s Animal

The conservation message is prevalent as you witness the effects of illegal logging with fires burning, devastated areas and a logging truck sliding towards the river.

Type of Ride / No. per Boat

Escaping the mayhem means a 30 ft slide into more choppy waters and suffering a potential soaking at every bump and spin. An awful amount of luck is needed to stay dry while great delight is taken in watching someone else in the raft suffer a head-to-toe drenching.

Rating

Circular Raft / 12 passengers

Splash

DUDLEY DO RIGHT RIPSAW FALLS This brightly coloured log flume ride centres around our hero, Royal Canadian Mountie Dudley Do Right and his efforts to save his beau Nell Fenwick. She has been kidnapped by Snidely Whiplash and is trapped in a sawmill.

Following the rescue attempt sees you entering a mine, avoid an oncoming train and arriving at the sawmill just as Dudley ‘seemingly’ saves the day.

However the bumbling hero causes an explosion that culminates in a 75ft drop into a dynamite shack.

The story is a little difficult to follow but continues right to the end when it appears that Horse actually gets the girl ! The very fast drop that has you skidding through the water is very much the main focus, as water is sprayed high in the air.

WATCH THE VIDEO

Location Islands of Adventure Type of Ride / No. per Boat Log Flume / 6 passengers

Rating Splash

JOURNEY TO ATLANTIS Delve into the legendary underwater world of Atlantis. Floating through the lost city a welcoming smoothing voice draws you closer but it soon takes a sinister turn. For it is Medusa, she wants to give you a watery home.

Sending you upwards towards the piercing green eyes glowing in the dark, a further climb before quickly sliding to a watery lake below. Rounding the bend and a hidden drop, you climb back towards the evil Medusa, the pace quickens as the darkness returns. Quickly into the light, the third and final ‘big’ splash lands another potential wetting.

Journey to Atlantis neatly combines the thrill and speed of a coaster with the excitement of a potential soaking.

WATCH THE VIDEO

Location SeaWorld Type of Ride / No. per Boat Water Chute Coaster / 8 passengers

Rating Splash

SPLASH MOUNTAIN All the Disney magic of storytelling shines through in this log flume adventure, following Br’er Rabbit’s quest for fortune and to find his ‘laughing place’. Pursued by Br’er Bear and Br’Fox through dark caverns and over gentle waterfalls all set to the sounds of the ‘Song of the South’ movie.

The 40mph five storey plunge over Slippin’ Falls is the iconic photo opportunity that has Br’er Rabbit thrown into the Briar Patch he calls home. The numerous audio-animatronics characters then celebrate upon a Mississippi riverboat.

Getting soaked is not the main aim for Splash Mountain (perhaps the hint is in the name) but a seat on the front row increases your chances of getting rather wet. Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah

WATCH THE VIDEO

Location Disney’s Magic Kingdom Type of Ride / No. per Boat Log Flume / 8 passengers

Rating Splash

WINNER

POPEYE & BLUTO BILGE RAT BARGES Can Popeye save Olive from the clutches of Bluto? Get aboard your raft on this fast moving white-water rapids ride and possibly the wettest journey of your life. As you splash and spin your way down Sweet Haven waterways, a variety of possible soakings present themselves.

The excellent themeing includes the Octopus grotto with an 18ft tall, 15ft wide Octopus and Bluto’s fully operational Barge wash, each one guarantees someone on the raft WILL get soaked, it could be you.

The pace and almost constant threat of water, whether it be sprayed, dumped or flooded over, make this THE place to keep cool this summer.

It is the best water ride in Orlando, guaranteeing you leave laughing and in search of a large towel. â—?

WATCH THE VIDEO

Location Islands of Adventure Type of Ride / No. per Boat Circular Raft / 12 passengers

Rating Splash

New&Upcoming what Harry Potter Diagon Alley

where Universal Studios

when 2014

f o n o o h p y T A n o i t a x a Rel

r y to! t u o y n e h w n stop eve ’t n s e o d n u f The

N

o matter when your take your Florida holiday, you can usually count on three things, ONE, the sun is shining and it’s hot. TWO, Your feet and senses will be on attraction overload and THREE, because of 1 & 2, your body craves rest while your head says, carry on, MUST DO MORE. Let me offer you a solution, when you’re at number 3, get out your cossie, don those expensive sexy shades, slap on the sunscreen and hit the water parks.

Around Orlando there are FOUR water parks to choose from, Disney have two, Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach, SeaWorld’s relatively new Aquatica and Wet & Wild on International Drive. All four have similar features, slides, rivers and more slides, whilst each one has it’s own unique feel and themeing.

As it’s mid-summer and the thermostat is hitting the mid nineties every single day, it’s a good time to take a visit to, what many consider to be the most picturesque of all the water parks, Typhoon Lagoon. The park is based around a tropical paradise, a lush oasis of swimming, sunbathing and sliding.

On arrival, stalk out your base for the day, do you want to be close to the action, or in a quiet secluded shaded area or beachside to people watch and catch the surf. Get your towels (bring your own or pay $2 each to hire) down on those sun loungers quick as in peak times the park can reach full capacity by late morning. Getting there early means you can secure your preferred location and settle in for a day of doing nothing, everything or somewhere in between.

Relaxation here comes in many forms, slow roasting on your lounger, perhaps bathing in the bay’s shallow waters, sipping a cold one at the bar, snorkeling in the reef or floating away on the lazy rivers of Castaway Creek. Castaway Creek is Typhoon Lagoon’s version of the M25, is a slow moving road (or river) that circles the surf pool.

Top Chill Tip

Plan your visit to a water park jus t under half way through your holida y to relax and hopefully feel refreshe d

Top Chill Tip

l Wear water shoes as you can stil do a lot of walking and climbing . steps plus the paths get quite hot

You can walk, swim or best of all hitch a ride on one of the many single or double rubber rings, similar to the M25 it has regular entrances and exits so is a great way of getting around the park. A full circuit takes about 20 minutes, three laps is an hour well spent as the sun beats down from above, while the cool waters below keep you nicely chilled.

The two and half acre lagoon surf pool is the largest of it’s kind in the world and when the surf’s up, which is every few minutes when

on it’s ninety minute cycle (followed by a thirty minutes of gently bobbing waves) the warning sirens sounds, followed by screams of excitement from those in the water.

A six foot wave then crashes into the lagoon carrying all in it wake.

You will be surprised by it’s force, powerful enough to sweep you of your feet, resistance is futile. Take care of small children at this time as the wave carries all the way to the shoreline although it loses it’s power as it’s fans out into the bay.

So you’re ready now for a little adventure at Shark Reef, a spot of snorkeling and swimming with schools of tropical fish and real sharks, yes sharks! (don’t worry they are harmless, honest) Snorkels and masks are provided

Information Typhoon Lagoon Water Park, 1195 East Buena Vista Drive, Lake Buena Vista, Fl, 32830 Phone (guest services): 0800 1690 730 (from UK) or (407) 939 7718 Parking: Free or by Disney transport bus Tickets (pay at gate): Adult: $52.19 inc tax Child (2-9): $43.67 Park entry included with Disney’s 14 or 21 day Ultimate ticket Locker rental: $13 small or $15 large per day Website: disneyworld.disney.go.com/ parks/typhoon-lagoon/

free of charge, as are vests if required. After some instruction you hit the cold saltwater of the reef and slowly make your way across, ogling sharks, rays and hundreds of brightly coloured fish and sea creatures as you go. The reef is over ten feet deep so you have to be able to swim, there is a rock formation half way across if you need a little rest. Life jackets are recommended as they allow you to float easier, this gives a gentle relaxed crossing, ensuring you get a real close-up underwater experience.

Okay, okay I need some more action and excitement now, I am ready, Without further delay head off to Crush n Gusher, situated in the South-East corner of the park.

This is the park’s main slide attraction, an intense water coaster, with uphill climbs and drops just like all coasters. Ride solo or go twos-up as torrents of water propel

you up to 30 feet per second, up chutes and down slopes on a water ride like no other.

More thrills follow with Mayday Falls, Humunga Kowabunga, Storm Slides, Gangplank Falls and Keelhaul Falls as you slide and ride through waterfalls and caves over rapids and whitewater. Some of these rides have a minimum height restrictions of 48”, whilst Ketchakiddie Creek is a kids area for those under 48”.

If all that chillin and thrillin has made you hungry, no worries, you can bring in your own cool boxes for a picnic on the beach (no glass bottles or alcohol allowed) or grab a

sandwich or burger at the Leaning Palms. All the dining locations do accept the Disney dining plans.

Beer, wine and alcholic drinks are available within the park, just remember you must be at least 21 years old and you will need ID, almost regardless of age.

The park hours are generally shorter than the main theme parks, closing around 5pm, except in June and July where they stay open until 8pm. If you have purchased an Ultimate Ticket in the UK then entry is included and is a really great way to spend a day, recharging the batteries but get plenty of fun and action too. ●

Monsters Schooled

Monsters Campus Bash Blasts out all summer long at Hollywood Studios.

Each night from 6pm DJ “Monster of Scaremonies” will be spinning a medley of hits as guests join in the games and activities at this monster mash up.

IN BRIEF

After the midday heat take in the natural environment of Rees Jones designed Championship golf course at the luxury Waldorf Astoria Golf Club, offering a twilight golf package of 18 holes and Nike club hire after 2pm for $80

Boogie at the beach

Summer Soccer

Teen Beach movie is taking part at Typhoon Lagoon Water Park this summer until 1st September at various times throughout the day.

Enjoy lots of beach themed games and dancing in Lagoon’s Beach and Wave Pool Area to the sounds of the hip DJ guaranteeing the feel good factor and plenty of fun in the sun.

Disney Soccer Academy based ESPN sports complex, which gives children the opportunity to learn and develop their soccer skills in a fun environment. The academy offers high quality, rewarding coaching by top line English soccer stars including Paul Robinson (Blackburn Rovers), Ashley Williams (Swansea) and Aaron Hughes (Fulham).

SeaWorld Summer Nights When the sun finally goes down, SeaWorld is certainly the place to be if you want to celebrate summer with two unique, vibrant and amazing shows. Sea Lions tonite stars the hysterical Clyde and Seamore as they make life a little crazy for their stage manager.

For high energy, rock n roll, Shamu Rocks has more flash and certainly more splash than most rock concerts. Summer Nights evening spectacular runs every evening until August 11.

New&Upcoming what Transformers The Ride 3D

where Universal Studios

when Open NOW

OTHER ATTRACTIONS starts here...

‘LIVE IT UP AND ‘PARTY’

This French inspired masterpiece of contemporary circus theatre bombards the senses from start to finish.

A mesmerizing, non-stop, one hundred minute display of highly skilled artistry, leaves you awe struck at the speed, time and grace before you.

Elaborate pop-up floors and equipment, together with the acoustically superb live music, deliver an exciting accompaniment to this evening extravaganza. Clowns, bikes, trampolines, juggling and much more, leaves every member of your family thrilled to party on @ LA NOUBA.

www.cirquedusoleil.com/lanouba

three never done that before Create those lifetime memories by doing something different. says PETER KING.

1

Be Performer for a day Arabian Nights

A very unique experience awaits. The opportunity to safely learn bareback acrobatics in the actual arena is exciting enough for any horse-loving youngster, but the joy reaches showing jumping heights, when they discover their teachers are actual performers from the show.

The ‘day’ starts with lunch and front row viewing of any rehearsals. The first lesson is that behind the glamour of the greasepaint is a lot of hard work caring for the real stars of the show, the fifty or so beautiful horses, 75% of which are Al-Marah Arabians.

After earning your stripes as a stable hand, it’s out to the arena and thirty minutes of stunt training. Depending upon your confidence and experience, it could see you standing and swirling atop a moving horse ! There’s nothing to fear as the attached safety harness turns you into

a flying Peter Pan if you lose your balance.

Soon it’s time to get ready for the evening’s performance, so off to wardrobe and make-up (don’t worry boys make-up is optional!). Join the rest of the team to welcome the VIP guests as they tour the barns and take photos.

Before the start take your front row seat to enjoy the upgraded dinner and drinks on offer. The performer for a day is then whisked backstage for a final briefing and then into the show itself, perhaps even stealing a scene for a truly memorable day.

$300 approx

Call: [001] 800 553 6116 www.arabian-nights.com

2

Lunch with an Astronaut Kennedy Space Center

Ever wanted the chance to be in the company of some of the smartest and bravest people on the planet? The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex has a daily programme that allows guests to do just that. Their ‘lunch with an astronaut’ puts visitors in the same room with a veteran NASA expert, many of them having spent time floating 230 miles above Earth on the International Space Station.

A buffet lunch is set-out after which the main course is a presentation from the host of the day, followed by a fascinating personalised question and answer session. Photo and autograph opportunities complete a memorable ‘meeting’

$29.99 adult $15.99 child Call: [001] 866 737 5235

www.kennedyspacecenter.com

3

Play a game of Whirlyball Whirlydome

A collaboration of basketball and hockey played in bumper cars known as whirly bugs.

Teams up to 5 take to the 50ft by 80ft court and attempt to fling the soft ball sized whiffle ball onto the basketball style backboard to score a goal.

A normal goal is worth 2 points but a “long shot” rewards with 3 points. Referees supervise the game to create a safe and fair experience, whilst the interactive scoreboard adds a competitive edge.

With your Jai-Alia style plastic scoop in one hand and your steering stick in the other this game is difficult to master but easy to enjoy.

Players must be 54” and over to join in but is great fun for all the family.

Located on International Drive, the Whirlydome is open from 4pm to 2am daily (from 11am weekends), we recommend giving it a whirl!

$8 per game per person Call: [001] 407 212 3030 www.whirlydome.com

New&Upcoming what Springfield

where Universal Studios

when Partly open now

1.

RIPLEYS BELIEVE IT OR NOT

A 10 000 sq ft “odditorium” filled to the brim with hundreds of fascinating, outrageous and interactive exhibits

8201 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819 SALES & MARKETING: Group/discount ticket programs, (407) 345-0501. WEBSITE: www.ripleys.com/orlando ADMISSION PRICES: Adults, $19.99 + tax; Children (ages 4-12), $12.99 + tax - PRICES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. OPERATING HOURS: Daily 9:00 a.m. to midnight (Last entry at 11:00 p.m.) - HOURS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. FREE PARKING: Free parking for cars and/or motor coaches. PHOTOGRAPHY: Cameras and camcorders are welcome! ACCESSIBILITY: Fully accessible to wheelchairs.

It was another baking hot day in our paradise, air conditioning on full blast as we drove along the Convention Center section of International Drive.

Heading towards the Festival Bay and Premium Outlets for a bit of retail therapy, our attention was grabbed by an individual bright red building, it looks like it is about to disappear down a Florida sinkhole.

It was Ripley’s Believe it or Not, “can we go Dad, pleassee” was the all too familiar cry from my teenage son.

My curiosity was suitable raised and having visited one before at a UK seaside, I decided it was well worth a visit. The entrance area confirmed we were in for an interesting hour or two, as you can instantly become the world’s fattest man!

The first section featured many optical illusions, puzzles and challenges. Apparently a small

percentage of the popular can touch their nose with their tongue whilst even less can actually curl or rotate it, one exhibit, complete with a large mirror, challenges you to give it a try, consequences of which can be seen later!

As we walked through the self-guided exhibits, the quantity and variety had me in a giddy spin, “look at this, try this, Dad can you do this?” Artwork made from candy, coins and other unusual objects also caught my eye, especially that of Beyonce. Some interesting music memorabilia included a lock of Elvis’s hair and a pair of Madonna’s hot pants.

As we made our way around, past the confusing pool table, where the ball seemed to roll uphill !, the galleries turned even stranger. Relics and rare treasures from around the world featuring macabre rituals and rights of passage, animal birth defects included lambs with six legs or two heads, weird was certainly the word. ≥

2.

3.

Reminding me of visits to the London Dungeons was the waxwork section on historical torture methods from around the world, with spine busting, eye gouging, skin ripping and bloody curdling displays. These were very dark and possibly a little too intense for the younger visitors.

4.

1. Ripleys room 2. 10ft actual piece of The Berlin Wall 3. Fun Photo ops 4. Beyonce Art: Made from candy 5. A lock of Elvis Presley’s hair

A tribute to the world’s tallest man Robert Wadlow brought me down to size, standing next to his life size wax figure, all 8ft 11 inches. An interview with his family told how at age 5 he was wearing clothes of a 17 year old! Other wax figures featured both natural human oddities and the self-inflicted, from the man with eye balls that would bulge out of it’s sockets, to the ‘lizard-man’ whose many body modifications include splitting his tongue and a full body tattoo of green scales.

There was plenty of fun too, the ‘fairground’ body-changing mirrors giving my son a great laugh at my expense. A couple of neat tricks and surprises too, I don’t want to spoil it but you might just get in on the shot!

Ripley’s Believe it or Not is a 10 000 sq ft “odditorium” filled to the brim with hundreds of fascinating, outrageous and interactive exhibits. There are an unbelievable variety of artefacts and displays that pay tribute to the odd and the strange.

5.

Do I believe all of what I saw? Well it’s a crazy world out there, so I guess I do! Check it out yourself if you don’t believe me. ≥

Jack Sparrow

Shrunken Head Lizard man

Tall man Spinning Tunnel

Eyes popping

O D N A L R O detOUR cals Go!” “Go Where the Lo

by KIMBR A HENNESSY

W W W.DE TOURORLANDO.CO

M

WEKIVA ISLAND Visitors to Florida might want to escape the theme parks for the day and take a side trip to see the “Real Florida” and convene with nature.

For a really unique and Floridacracker experience, check out Kooky @ WI Wekiva Island … a fun and funky waterfront bar in Longwood, located in Seminole County about 40 miles from the Disney area. Opened in the 1960s as a marina and tackle shop on the Wekiva River, this local hangout is like a cat with nine lives – it has weathered several owners, numerous names, zoning issues and a fire that virtually destroyed the whole place just a few years ago. ≥

Wekiva

∆ In 2008, Wekiva

Island was resurrected once again and appears to have made peace with residents in the upscale “Sweetwater” neighborhood that surrounds the Island. I love this place because despite being located in suburbs, the ‘Island is a “Redneck Riviera,” resplendent with colorful characters who have found the place, settled in and refuse to leave.

I like to chill with my best friend, Lee, on the wooden Adirondack chairs placed along the river edge with a cold beer and enjoy a closeup view of unspoiled nature. I have seen gators, Florida black bears, otters and egrets, to name just a few of the native species on display here.

Surrounding the bar is always a motley group of folks playing corn hole (or bean bag toss to

people with delicate sensibilities) and sand volleyball, or attempting to paddle canoes and kayaks (available for rent) up and down the river.

The rowdy regulars brandish an assortment of tattoos, mullets (the haircut, not the fish), shortshorts, gap-tooth grins and obnoxious t-shirts, all of which only make the place more fun – an authentic, local hangout.

If you like nature, a cold beer and some local color, take a detour and see the REAL FLORIDA! Think of the pictures you will take and the stories you will tell. Wekiva Island is definitely worth the detour.

Enjoy! Kimbra

WHEN . . .

O G TO Is one of the most asked questions but it’s one with no right or wrong answer. It is down to personal circumstances and preferences, some love hot weather whilst other hate it. Taking children out of school is a sensitive subject for many, there is no doubt that visiting Orlando outside of the holidays will provide much better value for money. The crowds will be lower meaning you can get more done resulting in more bang for your buck.

Our favourite time to visit is in October as the scorching summer sun has eased, often giving gorgeous blue sky warm days and mild evenings. The parks have Halloween events on too offering scary or not-so scary fun.

No matter when you visit, with a little planning you will have your best vacation ever, with so much to do and see. Enjoy!

HOW BUSY WILL IT BE?

HOW EXPENSIVE WILL IT BE?

OFF THE SCALE!

XMAS WEEK

EXTREMELY BUSY VERY BUSY BUSY FAIRLY QUIET

XMAS WEEK

$$$$

$$$

$$

$

QUIETEST JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

WHAT WILL THE WEATHER BE LIKE? SUN RISE SUN SET AV. HIGH AV. LOW RAINFALL OVERVIEW January COOLEST 7.20am

5.52pm

22°C

9°C

2.3mm

February

7.05am

6.16pm

23°C

9°C

3mm

March

7.36am

7.35pm

25°C

12°C

3.2mm

Warming up nicely

7.01am

7.52pm

28°C

14°C

1.8mm

Virtually perfect... very warm but dry!

6.36am

8.09pm

31°C

18°C

3.6mm

Occasional thunderstorms with hot days

6.28am

8.25pm

32°C

22°C

7.3mm

10 Hours of sunshine daily but with lots of thunderstorms

6.39am

8.25pm

33°C

22°C

7.2mm

Thunderstorms most days but don’t last

August

6.56am

8.05pm

33°C

22°C

6.8mm

Rains most days but very, very hot

September

7.11am

7.32pm

32°C

22°C

6mm

Still very hot with rain and thunderstorms

October

7.27am

6.57pm

29°C

18°C

2.4mm

Bit cooler, less rain – just about perfect!

November

6.48am

5.33pm

26°C

14°C

2.3mm

Warm and dry

December

7.11am

5.32pm

23°C

10°C

2.2mm

Mild and dry – much better than UK!

April

DRIEST

May June July

WETTE ST

HOTTES T

Coolest, low rain, blue skies As Jan, very mixed it can be 6 to 26 degrees

AT GLANCE A

Sunbathing weather

J A N U A R Y

M A Y

Prices lower before holidays Star Wars Avoid the thunderstorms

O C T O B E R

Best time to visit Suntan beautiful weather Halloween Happenings Very busy Halloween weekend

Watch for sunburn Very low crowds

Long days of sunshine

Cheaper prices Disney marathons Not sunbathing weather Reduced park options

F E B R U A R Y

J U N E

Mardi Gras at Universal Reduced park hours

Daily thunderstorms Prices Increase Holiday crowds

Low crowds Low prices

Increased park hours

N O V E M B E R

Long Park hours J U L Y

Everything fully operational Very very hot Massive crowds

Variable weather

Thanksgiving sales Warm days Lower crowds Reduced park hours Large crowds for Thanksgiving

D E C E M B E R

High prices M A R C H

A U G U S T

Long park hours Getting warmer

Everything open

Very low crowds before 18th

Crowds medium

Crowds reduce after midAug

Great Xmas spirit

Theme park events

Big Crowds

Costs increase for Easter Massive Easter crowds

A P R I L

Awesome park decorations

Spring Break increase crowds Avoid Easter if possible Not sunbathing weather Reduced park options

S E P T E M B E R

Christmas in Orlando

Very, very hot

Magical time in magical place

Quieter crowds

Very long park hours

Prices reduced

Cool weather

Epcot Flower & Garden

Short park hours

Still thunderstorms

Busiest week of the year

Still too hot for many

Highest prices too

REMEMBER: Florida weather, although gorgeous most of the time is still subject to variables in the winter months and extremes in the summer ones. Crowds will also vary day to day but will always be higher when school is out, especially on Bank Holiday weekends. Deals like free dining and extra nights free accommodation can be available off-peak.

DATES

FOR YOUR

DIARY

All the big Theme Park events

JANUARY

Disney Marathons

FEBRUARY

Universal Mardi Gras SeaWorld Bands, BBQ & Brew 0 Also this month: Daytona 50

M ARCH

Universal Mardi Gras (cont) Epcot Flower & Garden ORLANDO Also this month: PGA golf IN

APRIL

Epcot Flower & Garden Universal Mardi Gras (cont) break Also this month: USA spring

EASTER

M AY

Star Wars weekend (HS)

JUNE

Star Wars weekend(HS)

JULY

Special 4th July fireworks and parades July Also this month: Massive 4th celebrations nationwide

AUGUST

yond!

Parks open to midnight and be

SEPTEMBER

Epcot food & wine

OCTOBER

Mickeys not so scary halloween Universal Fright nights Epcot food and wine @ WDW Also this month: PGA GOLF

NOVEMBER

Thanksgiving dining specials

DECEMBER

Mickey Very Merry Christmas rd Palms Also this month: ICE @ Gaylo

XM AS WEEK

cial Xmas in Orlando is so very spe no matter what your age :-) new guests inthe Warning: Parks can close to day, it is THAT busy

OURTOP...

THEME PARK ATTRACTIONS

RIDES

SHOWS

Those not to be missed...

From real life to fantasy and 4D...

SPIDERMAN UNIVERSAL IOA 1

The recent HD upgrade is truly amazing. 3D and ride vehicle test all your spidey senses but leave you spinning a big grin.

1

FANTASMIC

Disney`s Hollywood Studios This fantastic night-time presentation is pure Disney magic. Heroes, villains, fire, water and fireworks combine to make your dreams come true.

© Universal

2

SHAMU

SeaWorld One Ocean is a beautiful and gentler show, focusing on the grace of the awesome Killer Whale whilst offering plenty of splash.

3

2 TOWER OF TERROR

Disney`s Hollywood Studios Drop in (& down) to the twilight zone. The spooky, abandoned Hollywood Hills Hotel and its staff combine for a ‘chillin’ experience.

3 HARRY POTTER’S

FORBIDDEN JOURNEY

Universal IOA The awesome Hogwarts detailing and unique ride experience justify some of the Harry Potter hype. Muggles are welcome too.

WISHES

Disney`s Magic Kingdom Pixie dust galore as this firework spectacular, lights up the night sky over Cinderella’s castle. A beautiful musical score ensures an emotional end to a great day.

FESTIVAL OF THE LION KING 4

Disney`s Animal Kingdom 25 minutes of high tempo sights and sounds. All the animated film’s favourite stars and songs feature, with moving stages, singers, acrobats and much more.

4 KILIMANJARO SAFARI

Disney`s Animal Kingdom Take a truck ride through the African Savanna. Riding early morning is best to get close to giraffes, rhinos, elephants and even crocs at their most active.

5 TEST TRACK

Disney`s Epcot Buckle up for Disney’s fastest and longest ride. You and your vehicle are subjected to hills, corners, brake tests and that high speed loop.

5

TERMINATOR 2: 3D

Universal Studios Combines live action, gun totting animatronics and 3D imagery for a full-on action blast.

OURTOP...

THEME PARK ATTRACTIONS

FAMILY FUN

From young to old who will love them the most?

1

ROLLERCOASTERS Thrill seekers heaven

TOY STORY MANIA

Disney’s Hollyood Studios Carnival style shoot-up where every scene is a new game. Great string pull firing system too.

1

MANTA

SeaWorld Fly like a sting ray! You’re horizontal (most of the time) climbing 200ft and swooping all the way down to sea level.

2

EXPEDITION EVEREST Disney’s Animal Kingdom Exploring this mountain with a yeti on the loose could bring you to a dead stop.

3

2 SOARIN

Disney’s Epcot Take flight across the great state of California hang-gliding over vineyards, canyons, beaches and cities. (min. height 40”)

4 SHREK 4-D

Disney’s Universal Studios Join Shrek and Fiona in a wild chase with the ghostly Lord Farquaad with 3D, moving seats and other ‘effects’.

3 PIRATES OF THE

CARIBBEAN

Disney’s Magic Kingdom An indoor cruise as pirates plunder and pillage. Look out for Captain Jack Sparrow.

5 E.T.

Disney’s Universal Studios Get on your bike and help E.T. back to his home planet after which he thanks you personally.

MONTU

Busch Gardens Seven inversions, 60mph, 3.8g and 128 foot drop, all whilst inverted, need we say more.

DRAGON CHALLENGE I.OA. 4

Two dragons to choose, we prefer the ‘in your face action’ of the Chinese Fireball.

INCREDIBLE HULK I.O.A. 5

Wow what a start, 0-40 in 2 seconds, uphill ! quickly followed by loops and corkscrews. Oh & its green.

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FLORIDA VACATION

REASONS TO GO

Why we think it’s the best destination in the world

TOP TIPS

Best vacation ever

THEME PARKS 1

With 8 theme and 4 water parks there is plenty for everyone, from toddlers to your grand parents, parents!

ARRIVE EARLY @ THE PARKS 1

Get those most do rides in easier giving u more choice for the day ahead.

2

2 THE WEATHER Everything feels better when the sun shines, here it does 300+ days a year.

3 CHOICE

PLAN

With so much to see and do, some research means you wont miss out on some amazing experiences.

Literally so much to choose, parks, accommodation, dining, shopping, attractions, the options are almost endless.

3

RELAX

You’re on vacation!

Half day by the pool is still an adventure.

SUN CARE 4

Stay in top condition with cream, glasses, hats and plenty of fluid.

4 SHOPPING Orlando was recently voted best Outlet shopping city in the U.S. Upscale shoppers are well catered for too.

5 BEACHES Over 600 miles and some of the country’s best means there plenty of room for your towel on those golden sands.

5

BUDGET

Again with so much choice, it pays to decide where to get the most out your dollar, lifetime memories await.

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FLORIDA VACATION

FURTHER AFIELD

Florida is much more than just theme parks and Sunshine 1

OFTEN MISSED OR FORGOTTEN Some little secret gems

MIAMI

Upscale and upbeat. Place to see and been seen, strut your stuff on the famous South Beach but watch out for those celebrities.

ORLANDO SCIENCE CENTRE 1

Great family exhibits with enormous IMAX screen and planetarium not to be missed.

2

DISNEY’S BOARDWALK

Stroll, eat, relax, dance, shop and sing in this 1920’s Atlantic seaside village.

3

2 SARASOTA Beautiful beach islands and cultural offerings a plenty in the city of performing arts.

3 KEY WEST The USA’s most Southern point, a place so laid-back, you only get up to party.

WINTER PARK

Chic shopping and dining in this tree lined area just North of the city.

4

CELEBRATION

Upscale town set-up by Disney, cosy coffee shops and boutiques mix in with banks and real estate agents.

4 HOMOSASA Nature at it’s best. Crystal clear waters and National Parks and wildlife.

5 DAYTONA Seaside style entertainment and motorsport, it’s not quaint but you can drive on the beach!

5

CHURCH STREET

Downtown evening entertainment district has a new lease of life.