Category Archives: Orlando

Nine Foods to Try at the 2017 Epcot International Food and Wine Festival

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Nine Foods to Try at the 2017 Epcot International Food and Wine Festival

I am counting down the days until August 31 for the opening of the 2017 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. And with the festival running for 75 days this year, there will be plenty of time to sip and taste your way through the 35 Marketplaces circling World Showcase Lagoon and stretching into Future World.

Still, the sheer amount of food and drink can be overwhelming, so you can get a head start with these nine foods to try at the 2017 Epcot International Food and Wine Festival.

In no special order, here are nine new tastes that we recommend not missing at this year’s festival:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

1. Crispy Chicken with Griddled Cornbread and Red-Eye Gravy at the Farm Fresh Marketplace is the trifecta of Southern cooking.
2. Sounds kooky, but the Teriyaki-glazed SPAM® Hash with Potatoes, Peppers, Onions and Spicy Mayonnaise is a winner in the Hawai’i Marketplace.
3. The Bougatsa at the Greece Marketplace is ethereal: warm phyllo strudel with sweet vanilla custard, lemon honey syrup and cinnamon. East dessert first!
4. The Madras Red Curry with Roasted Cauliflower, Baby Carrots, Chickpeas, and Basmati Rice in the India Marketplace is vegetarian, gluten friendly and delicious.
5. Spain Marketplace gives us the perfect carry-around nibble: Charcuterie in a Cone with a selection of imported Spanish meats, cheeses and olives with an herb vinaigrette.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

6. Spain gave us another new favorite, the Sweet Olive Oil Cake with Powdered Sugar and Lemon Curd. Sublime.
7. If you love the Cheddar Cheese soup at Le Cellier, the Warm Irish Cheddar Cheese and Stout Dip with Irish Brown Bread at the Ireland Marketplace will make you happy. Nicely pairs with the new Guinness Blonde American Lager.
8. We’re fans of the Cauliflower Risotto with Pulled Chicken, Artichokes, Spinach, Parmesan Cheese and Aged Balsamic at the new Almond Orchard Hosted by Blue Diamond Almond Breeze. (They’re also pouring Dom Pérignon and Vueve Cliquot at this Marketplace.)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

9. Scallop fans will love the Seared Scallops with Roasted Corn and Butterbean Succotash and Chili-chipotle Butter Sauce at the new Coastal Eats Marketplace. They’re pairing the dish with a nice pinot gris from Oregon.

Be sure to save your time and appetite for all of these foods to try at the 2017 Epcot International Food and Wine Festival.

The 2017 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival dates are August 31 through November 13, 2017. The Party for the Senses grand tasting events, signature dinners and other special wine and culinary programs require reservations and separate event admission. Guests can call 407-WDW-FEST or get details at EpcotFoodFestival.com.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

How to Send Mail from Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando

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How to Send Mail from Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando

One of my favorite spots inside The Wizarding World of Harry Potter—Hogsmeade at Universal Orlando Resort is somewhat of a hidden gem, Owl Post. This fun and unique shop can be found next to Ollivanders wand shop in the middle of Hogsmeade.

Inside Owl Post, you can find a variety of stationery and writing implements like feathered quills and beautiful parchments. You will also find some beautiful owl plushes and other gifts. A fan favorite is always this cute Hedwig plush.

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In addition to finding some great souvenirs, one of the coolest experiences at Owl Post is mailing a letter with a special Hogsmeade postmark!

Here’s how you do it:

First, choose your stationery and write down all of the adventures you’ve had and memories you’ve made so far in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Next you pick your choice of stamp for your letter. I love the ones with the beautiful shot of Hogwarts castle.

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Once you’re ready to mail your letter, you’ll receive a special Hogsmeade stamp on your envelope before you hand it off for delivery.

Next time you’re in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade, be sure to share your own adventures with family and friends by mailing a letter from Owl Post.

Would you like to receive mail from the Wizarding World of Harry Potter before your next visit? You can send us a self- addressed envelope and we will return it to you straight from the Wizarding World of Harry Potter! This is a great way to surprise someone with a vacation to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter or just a special treat for any Harry Potter fan! Read all of the details about how to receive your own mail here.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios Travel Agency of the Year 2010, 2011, & 2012. She would love to help you plan your next Universal Orlando vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Don’t Miss Rare Characters at Disney PhotoPass Day 2017 at Disney World

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Disney PhotoPass Day 2017

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

August 19 marks World Photo Day, and we’re excited to celebrate the occasion with the return of Disney PhotoPass Day 2017 at Walt Disney World Resort! During this event, Disney PhotoPass Service will offer a number of exclusive photo opportunities that will let you take home even more picture-perfect memories of your visit.

You can also celebrate Disney Princesses during Disney PhotoPass Day! In honor of Disney’s “Dream Big, Princess” campaign, you’ll find photo opportunities focused on some of your favorite Disney Princesses.

Check out all of the special opportunities that are planned in each of the four theme parks and Disney Springs on August 19 for Disney PhotoPass Day 2017:

Entertainment and photo opportunities are subject to change. Some locations could be affected by inclement weather.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Character Experiences:

  • Meeko joins Pocahontas at Character Landing on Discovery Island
  • Timon joins Rafiki at Rafiki’s Planet Watch
  • Princess Atta joins Flik at Discovery Island near Creature Comforts

Photo opportunities:

  • Dream Big Princess photo backdrop before the park entrance (daylight hours only)
  • Jungle Book Magic Shot near Yak & Yeti Restaurant
  • Visit the PhotoPass photographer in DinoLand U.S.A. from 9-10 p.m. to have magical Mickey light effects added to your photo (example below)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Character Experiences:

  • The Queen from “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” Maleficent, and Cruella de Vil will meet with guests at Sunset Showcase. This opportunity will be available from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Photo opportunities:

  • Dream Big Princess photo backdrop outside the Theater of the Stars (daylight hours only)
  • Poison Apple Magic Shot on Sunset Boulevard
  • Fisheye lens in the Chinese Theatre Courtyard area

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Epcot

Character Experiences:

  • Genie will join Princess Jasmine in the Morocco Pavilion
  • Mushu will join Mulan in the China Pavilion

Photo opportunities:

  • Dream Big Princess photo backdrop near Epcot Character Spot (daylight hours only)
  • Baymax Animated Magic Shot with the PhotoPass photographer located near Mouse Gear and the Fountain of Nations
  • Fisheye lens near the fountain close to the entrance to Spaceship Earth

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Magic Kingdom Park
Character Experiences:

  • Dopey joins Snow White at Town Square Courtyard
  • Captain Hook joins Peter Pan in Fantasyland

Photo opportunities:

  • Dream Big Princess photo backdrop in Fantasyland (daylight hours only)
  • Cinderella’s Coach in Fantasyland
  • “Tangled” light painting photo opportunity near Ariel’s Grotto (available after dark)
  • Mickey Mouse Magic Shot on the bridge near Fairytale Garden
  • Main Street Vehicle near the Plaza Ice Cream Parlor (available in the morning and early afternoon)

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Disney Springs 
Photo opportunities:

  • Dream Big Princess photo backdrop next to the Marketplace Stage
  • Fairy Wings Magic Shot from the PhotoPass photographer roaming around the Marketplace near Tren-D (available from 1-10:30 p.m.)
  • You can also visit the Disney PhotoPass Studio at Disney Springs to enjoy special $99.95 plus shipping pricing on a Personalized Storybook now through August 20!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Don’t forget to share your photos from Disney PhotoPass Day 2017 on social media using #DisneyPhotoPassDay and #DreamBigPrincess, and if you want access to all of your PhotoPass photos from Disney PhotoPass Day 2017, purchase Memory Maker One Day for $59 in the My Disney Experience mobile app during or after your visit!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

BaseLine Tap House Coming to Grand Avenue at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Debuting this fall, the new Grand Avenue area at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is being re-imagined by Walt Disney Imagineering to capture the spirit of present-day Downtown Los Angeles, showing vintage office buildings and warehouses representing the different vibrant districts and cultures of the city. One prominent hot spot to spring up is the BaseLine Tap House, a cheerful corner pub specializing in beer and wines from California.

In a quaint brick building, BaseLine Tap House celebrates the revitalization of Downtown Los Angeles by paying homage to the building’s former life as the Figueroa Printing Company, a mom-and-pop print house that had ties to the Disney studios in nearby Burbank. The space retains many of its cool architectural and mechanical details with exposed walls and old printing equipment and artifacts, blending the past and present in an inviting space. Outside is a charming tree-shaded terrace, perfect for a relaxing break in the day.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

California craft ales, lagers and cider will be the stars of the drink menu. You won’t want to miss California wines on tap along with specialty cocktails, either. A gourmet non-alcoholic lemonade and soda on tap will round out the drink selection.

If you’re feeling hungry, be sure to try one of the small bites, including a Bavarian pretzel with mustard and beer-cheese fondue, spiced almonds or a charcuterie board featuring California cheeses.

Are you excited to visit the new BaseLine Tap House when it opens at Disney’s Hollywood Studios?

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Back to School 2017 Shopping at Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Before you know it, the first day of school will be here. So today, we’re visiting Disney Springs for a first look at some “must have” back to school 2017 items and accessories to make this year extra magical.

At Disney Springs, finding a great school outfit is easy. Levi’s has a large selection of kids’ clothing, and offers custom tailoring, hemming and embroidery to help create a comfortable, unique look. Also, UNIQLO is packed with back to school essentials and has a variety of Disney-inspired clothing to show off your favorite character in style.

There are also some great deals on school outfits at Disney Springs. Superdry is offering $50 off your purchase of $200 or more August 18 through September 5, and when you spend more than $100 at Shore, you’ll receive a drawstring backpack August 18 through August 20.

For more back to school staples, check out Columbia Sportswear, Volcom and LACOSTE.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Finding a perfect backpack is simple at Disney Springs. CURL by Sammy Duvall has a variety of Disney-inspired Jansport backpacks. And Vera Bradley and Kipling in the Town Center also have backpacks and bags in a wide assortment of styles and colors. Both locations offer custom embroidery on all products, including pencil cases, lunchboxes, and more.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Need accessories? World of Disney is now offering an impressive assortment of pens, pencils, notebooks, and tablet cases. Francescas also has a fun selection of back to school items as well as a variety of stylish jewelry and accessories.

If you’re looking for shades, be sure to stop by Sunglass ICON and APEX by Sunglass Hut. Both are offering $40 off a second pair of polarized glasses when you purchase one full-priced pair. Edward Beiner, a location that can fill your eyeglass prescription in-store, is another great option to eyewear – offering the latest lens and frame styles for all ages.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

You can “pair” your new school outfit with a perfect pair of socks at the World of Disney or sock-specialty store Stance, carrying Disney, Star Wars, and Marvel-inspired collections for your feet.

Specialty footwear retailers Sperry and UGG are offering promotions during the back to school shopping season. Visit Sperry for 30% off select styles, now through August 18. At UGG, enjoy complimentary customization up to $20 on any purchase of Kids’ Classic II product. Fit2Run, the Runners Superstore and Melissa Shoes both offer Disney character-inspired footwear selections to complete your first day of school outfit.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

College-bound students looking to fill their toiletries bags should stop by Basin. The store is offering $10 off when you purchase a body butter, scrub, and three bath bombs together from August 4 through 6. And Sugarboo & Co. has all of your dorm essentials. When you purchase any pillow August 11 through 20, you can purchase a second one at half off.

If you build up an appetite during back to school shopping, Wolfgang Puck Express in the Marketplace is offering a free kids meal with the purchase of one adult entrée from August 4 through August 13. If you’re looking for some refreshing sorbetto, Vivoli il Gelato in the Landing will cool your palate with their seasonal pineapple, watermelon and cherry flavors. And stopping by Ghirardelli is the perfect way to enjoy that end-of-summer sundae, as well as satisfy that sweet tooth.

Check out Disney Springs for your back to school 2017 shopping and share your favorites with us using #DisneySprings on Twitter and Instagram.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Enjoy a Tropical Paradise at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal Orlando

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Every trip to Universal Orlando Resort should be full of riding roller coasters, character meet-and-greets, eating ice cream, and nonstop adventures. But after the miles of walking and navigating the theme parks, one of the best things about your visit will be coming back to your on-site hotel.

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort is Universal Orlando’s newest on-site hotel and is Caribbean-inspired. If you have a great love for island living, you will be taken to paradise as soon as you step through the door of you room.

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

At Sapphire Falls, there isn’t a shortage of activities, and you can easily spend an entire day at the hotel, because of all the amenities available.

The best place to cool off from the Florida heat is the pool. It’s a gorgeous 16,000 square foot pool, complete with a water slide, sand area and private cabanas (for an additional charge).

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Depending on the day’s activity schedule, you may even catch a ping-pong tournament or a nighttime movie showing. There is always something going on, so be sure to check with the concierge during your visit.

Plus, if you get hungry, you can head to Drhum Club Kantine, the hotel’s poolside bar. It’s the perfect place to stop for a drink or snack while getting your tan on!

In addition to Drhum Club Kantine, the hotel has several dining options. New Dutch Trading Co. is a quick-service café, whereas Amatista Cookhouse is a sit-down restaurant with an extensive menu. Room service is also available 24 hours in case you’re craving something at 3AM.

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Amatista Cookhouse offers a delicious menu, but some guest favorites are the margherita pizza (and french fries!), finished with a slice of chocolate cake for dessert.

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Although you can easily spend most of your “hotel days” swimming and tanning in the pool area, if you would rather spend the afternoon in air-conditioning, the Calypso Game Room is the best place to be!

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

You can even fit in a workout if you don’t want your exercise routine to take a vacation. Kalina Health and Fitness Center is the full-service gym at Sapphire Falls. Plus, there are various walking and jogging paths that wind around the hotel. Whether you’re using the cardio machines in the gym or going on a run around the resort, you’ll be able to get your sweat on.

The internet at Sapphire Falls is super fast and reliable, and it’s complimentary for up to four devices per room.

Another benefit of staying at an on-site hotel is Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Being able to visit one hour before the theme park opens to the public is immensely helpful and will maximize your experience at Hogwarts!

As for getting there? No worries. There is complimentary transportation from Loews Sapphire Falls Resort to Universal Studios Florida, Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal CityWalk.

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(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

You have the choice between a shuttle bus or a water taxi. While both are efficient, I recommend the water taxi (or as I like to call it: the mini cruise). It’s an enchanting ride, especially at night!

The tropical atmosphere, endless activities, and savory meals at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort are pure bliss. Are you planning a trip to Universal Orlando Resort soon? Think about booking at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios Travel Agency of the Year 2010, 2011, & 2012. She would love to help you plan your next Universal Orlando vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Mission Space Will Relaunch at Epcot on August 13, 2017 with New Experiences

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(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

If you’re a thrill seeker, one of your favorite attractions at Epcot may be Mission: SPACE. Mission Space gives you the feeling of lifting off into outer space and gives you an incredible view of the Earth as it appears from outer space. Many guests love the authentic, NASA-style training and space travel aboard the Mission Space “rocket.”

Although Mission Space has been closed for refurbishment since the beginning of June, it will officially relaunch on August 13, 2017 with a brand new experience and an enhanced version of the “classic” Mission: SPACE.

  • If you think you’ve got “the right stuff,” take on the Orange Mission for a truly intense experience that lets you feel the force of an actual space launch en route to Mars. On this mission, you’ll dodge meteoroids, slingshot around the moon and attempt a precision landing on the Red Planet’s alien surface. This “mission” has been enhanced with new, HD video to make it even clearer – I can’t imagine!
  • Or, embark on the more family-friendly Green Mission – a new mission that takes you on an exciting orbit around Earth. On this amazing new adventure, you’ll take in sites like the Hawaiian Islands, Italy’s “boot” and the Northern Lights—as seen from space, of course—before finally landing at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. No matter which mission you choose, it’ll be a journey that’s totally out of this world.

In addition to all the “mission” updates, Walt Disney Imagineering has also made this attraction MORE family-friendly. Younger astronauts will now have the opportunity to ride because the height restriction will be changed for the Green Mission side with the addition of new X-2 booster seats in order to allow children 40-44” to ride.

Do you prefer to experience the Orange Mission or Green Mission on Mission Space? Be sure to let us know in the comments!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Seven Tips for Universal Orlando Resort Attractions

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(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Seven Tips for Universal Orlando Resort Attractions

We’ve already shared with you how to navigate crowds and save money on your next Universal Orlando Resort vacation. Now, it’s time to talk rides! Here are seven tips for Universal Orlando Resort attractions on how you can go the extra mile when experiencing Universal’s world-class attractions.

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Stay on property to get Early Park Admission

All guests staying at our on-site hotels get Early Park Admission, which means access to one theme park and popular attractions (see below) an hour before the scheduled opening.

So head over to your favorite rides before the rush. This is a great time to ride again and again to make sure you don’t miss a moment.

Universal Studios Florida

  • Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
  • Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

Universal’s Island of Adventure

  • Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
  • Dragon Challenge
  • Flight of the Hippogriff

Universal’s Volcano Bay

  • Volcano Bay rides, slides and attractions are available during Early Park Admission.

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Ask if you can have the seat you want

Whether you’re #TeamFrontRow or #TeamBackRow, let the Team Member in charge of on-boarding know and you might get to sit in your preferred location.

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Stay on property to get free Universal Express Access

You’re going to want to take advantage of this one. Three of Universal Orlando’s on-site hotels offer free Express access for everyone in your party. Skip the regular lines at all participating rides and attractions and get to the fun faster.

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Pay attention to the queues

Waiting in line is no longer about waiting. While queueing for rides, take in all the amazing details around you. Queues like Skull Island: Reign of Kong and Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon contain surprises and entertainment that you won’t want to miss.

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Plan to work against the crowds

Starting your day at the back of the park can go a long way. Most guests will enter through the front gates and head to the nearest attraction, so you can do the opposite and reap the benefits.

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Take advantage of the single rider line

If you’re looking to save some time, another great option is to use the single rider line. You and your party will be separated while loading into the ride vehicle, but it’s usually a much shorter wait than the regular queue.

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Jam out to the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit hidden songs menu

When you first get on the ride, hold down the Rockit logo on the song selection screen for about 10 seconds when you first get on the ride to bring up a number keypad. Enter a 3-digit value to select a hidden track and prepare for a whole new ride experience.

What tips do you like to use when you visit Universal Orlando Resort? Tell us in the comments below!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios Travel Agency of the Year 2010, 2011, & 2012. She would love to help you plan your next Universal Orlando vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

New Universal Orlando Youth Program Offers Interactive Learning Experiences

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What happens when you take your physics textbook and turn it into a roller coaster?

Enter Your Classroom in Motion: A STEAM App Series, the latest Universal Orlando Youth Program.

Several programs make up this new series. Each one is unique and contains three parts:

  • Content-rich, pre-visit classroom lessons
  • Career-focused videos from NBC Learn
  • Thrilling in-park attraction and app-based experiences here at Universal Orlando Resort

And great news for teachers—the lessons all correlate with middle school and high school national and state education standards in STEAM concepts.

(STEAM is an educational approach that uses Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics to guide learning.)

I have had numerous educators confirm that when students are having fun with their work, learning is a natural outcome. To make the most of that, the series consists of the follow learning modules:

  • Transformers ROLL Out: Learn about the engineering principles of the 6 Degrees of Freedom. Then, reconstruct the ride vehicle’s motion sequences on TRANSFORMERS: The Ride-3D.
  • Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit Science: Work in small groups to collect data and measure speed at different points along the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster. Then, use the data to prove the law of conservation of energy.
  • Kongtrol Panel: Use engineering principles to maneuver the ride vehicle around Skull Island: Reign of Kong.
  • Mummy Dig Site Detective: Use scientific observation to investigate curious discoveries at the dig site beneath Revenge of the Mummy.
  • Jurassic Paleobotany: Search for foliage in Jurassic Park using a digital map to collect photographic samples of Jurassic-era plants.

Your Classroom In Motion uses innovative software – exclusive to groups participating in the program – to give students hands-on learning lessons throughout Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme parks.

For students who love the performing arts, we also enhanced our existing workshop, Sound Design: Music and the Art of Foley. This energetic workshop gives students the chance to experience a day in the life of a working movie musician.

Band, choir or orchestra students can now sync music or choral arrangements and create sound effects and voiceovers to Illumination Entertainment’s Despicable Me and The Lorax.

Universal Orlando Resort is always ready to take students beyond the classroom and bring education to life. Contact us to learn how you can give your students a “day in the lab” like nothing else. Our Universe is your classroom!

If you’d like to bring your school group or band to Universal Orlando Resort, we can help you plan every details from accommodations to time in the theme parks and participation in your Universal Orlando Youth Program.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios Travel Agency of the Year 2010, 2011, & 2012. She would love to help you plan your next Universal Orlando vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

10 Unique Treats in Hogsmeade at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

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(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

10 Unique Treats in Hogsmeade at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter

By now, you’re probably familiar with the creamy, butterscotch concoction called Butterbeer. You may have even tossed back a glass or 10, and we don’t blame you – it’s life changing! But the next time you visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, keep your wits about you… There are so many other magical things to consume. Here are some of the greatest treats in Hogsmeade at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort.

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Pumpkin Juice – The Three Broomsticks, Hog’s Head pub and Honeydukes

Pumpkin. Spice. Everything. Straight from the stories and perfect for winter (and really any season), this drink is also available exclusively at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Let the sweet, sweet pumpkin flavor wash over you as you stare happily at the collectible bottle you’ll be taking home.

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Hog’s Head Brew and Dragon Scale Beer – Hog’s Head Pub, The Three Broomsticks

PSA: There are three different beers created especially for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and they’re bloody brilliant! Kick back at the Hog’s Head Pub with Hog’s Head Brew, an Irish red. Or if you’d like an amber lager, try Dragon Scale. And collect them all when you hop the Hogwarts Express to Diagon Alley and take in a Wizard’s Brew.

(Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Something Sweet – Honeydukes

All of the glorious delicacies you fell in love with on paper now exist at Honeydukes for your taste buds’ pleasure!

  • Chocolate Frogs – Encounter the enchanting chocolates from Harry’s first trip to the trolley cart here at Hogsmeade, and start your own card collection. Dibs on Gilderoy Lockhart!
  • Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans – For the most adventurous of us, these candies ranging from delicious to disgusting provide quite the thrill. You may get lucky with tutti-frutti or marshmallow, you may experience the oddity of grass, or you could end up with – Alas! Earwax.
  • Exploding Bonbons – Next, devour some Exploding Bonbons: white chocolates with crunchy orange and pineapple-flavored centers.
  • Fizzing Whizzbees – Fizzing Whizzbees are milk chocolates with carbonated centers that erupt into a chorus of popping in your mouth.
  • Sherbet Lemons – Dumbledore’s favorite is also here for you to sample. These lemons are covered in sugar that dissolves to leave a tart, sour candy.
  • Cauldron Cakes – A scrumptious combination of cupcake, chocolate mousse and white chocolate, Cauldron Cakes will satisfy your sweet tooth.
  • Pepper Imps – For cinnamon lovers, these small and spicy red candies pack a punch!
  • Jelly Slugs – You might balk at the name, but these fruity, chewy gummies are the perfect addition to your growing armful of goodies.

There you have it! In the comments below, tell us which non-Butterbeer treats you recommend at Hogsmeade.

Must be 21 years of age or older with valid identification to purchase or drink alcoholic beverages at Universal Orlando Resort.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios Travel Agency of the Year 2010, 2011, & 2012. She would love to help you plan your next Universal Orlando vacation at no cost to you. Contact Siera today at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or at 734-771-1290 for more information or your free, no obligation quote.