Category Archives: Florida

Six Reasons to Plan a Visit for Summer 2017 at Disney World

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

It’s always a great time to plan a Walt Disney World Resort vacation, but this year is an extra special time to visit! With a whole new land at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and new nighttime experiences at both Magic Kingdom Park and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, summer 2017 at Disney World will be one to remember! Here are more details on the exciting additions to Disney World:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Pandora- The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Pandora – The World of Avatar, an all new land at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, is now open. You will journey 4.4 light years away from Earth for the chance to take in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Valley of Mo’ara,a world of bioluminescent rainforests, floating mountains and soaring banshees. Learn key phrases in the Na’vi language, ride on the back of a banshee on the thrilling Avatar Flight of Passage, board reed boats for Na’vi River Journey, a family-friendly excursion down a rainforest river to see the Na’vi Shaman of Songs, and bask in the beautiful bioluminescent glow of the land after sundown.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Happily Ever After at Magic Kingdom Park: The new “Happily Ever After” nighttime fireworks spectacular at Magic Kingdom, performed nightly, features stunning projections on Cinderella Castle, capturing the heart, humor and heroism of many favorite Disney animated films. What a fantastic finale to a day at Magic Kingdom!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

The Music of Pixar Live at Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Celebrate over 20 years of lyrical brilliance with music that’s made cinematic history with“The Music of Pixar LIVE! A Symphony of Characters!” This all-new, nightly concert series inside Theater of the Stars showcases a selection of unforgettable soundtrack favorites from Cars, Finding Nemo, Monsters, Inc., Toy Story and UP—all performed by a live orchestra. As the symphony plays, giant screens will feature a movie montage, outtakes and interview excerpts with the folks behind Pixar’s captivating music. And don’t be surprised to see some of the studio’s funniest characters stop by to steal the spotlight with their own brand of comedic relief. It’s an immersive, family-friendly experience fans won’t want to miss!

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Miss Adventure Falls – This family-friendly raft adventure just debuted at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park and whisks guests through the remains of a treasure hunter’s hideout.
“Disney Movie Magic” Projection Show: This new projection show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios transforms the park’s iconic Chinese Theater with special lighting and state-of-the-art projection mapping technology to put you right in the middle of a high-energy celebration of films from the Disney family of studios. There will be dozens of movies highlighted, from Disney classics like “Mary Poppins” to contemporary blockbusters such as “Pirates of the Caribbean,” the Indiana Jones adventures and this summer’s “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2.”

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Star Wars Launch Bay: Replicas from “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” welcome guests to Star Wars Launch Bay at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. (And don’t forget, Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular returned earlier in 2017 to the delight of guests at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. In it, the music, magic and characters of Star Wars combine with special effects, fireworks and state-of-the-art projection to put you inside iconic scenes from the Star Wars saga).

It’s not too late to plan your vacation for summer 2017 at Disney World! Contact us today!

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.

Celebrate Father’s Day 2017 at Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort

Leave a reply

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

With Father’s Day right around the corner, many guests are looking for special ways to treat dad. Check out this list of ways to treat Dad for Father’s Day 2017 at Disney Springs – including experiences beginning before June 18.

Coca-Cola Store at Disney Springs is kicking off the celebration early and offering a Style My Coke Father’s Day Bottle for visiting guests. This one-of-a-kind gift will only be available during the week of June 11.

Vintage Amphicar Tour Water Taxi Tours at The BOATHOUSE is offering the chance to treat your father to a memory of a lifetime when you book a captain-guided tour of Lake Buena Vista aboard a vintage Amphicar. To celebrate Father’s Day, you’ll receive $25 off the price of a tour and a free family photo when you purchase an experience from June 16 through June 19.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Looking to treat dad to a nice meal on Father’s Day? Father’s Day reservations are limited; call 407-WDW-DINE to book a table or to check availability for other dates in June.

STK Orlando – On June 18th, STK Orlando is featuring a special menu featuring a 70-day Dry Aged Prime New York Strip with House Tater Tots, scallions, and bourbon-peppercorn sauce. You can also enjoy the New York Strip menu topped with a Lake Meadow Farm Egg for brunch. On Father’s Day, dads receive one complimentary POP-sicle (Bourbon in a champagne glass with an orange bitters ice cube) in addition to a special takeaway gift.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Paddlefish – Also on June 18th, you can share a special surf & turf meal with dad. The meal features a 20-ounce Porterhouse, jumbo gulf shrimp, and a double stuffed potato paired with a glass of cabernet sauvignon, and red velvet cake for dessert.

Senses – A Disney Spa Activation at Marketplace Co-Op – From June 16-18, bring dad by for massages and facials from noon-9 p.m. Prices start at $20 and includes a complimentary brew at the bar inside Twenty Eight & Main at Marketplace Co-Op (Additional beverages sold separately. Spa Appointments made on a first-come, first-served basis.)

There are also limited-time offers especially for Father’s Day you don’t want to miss.

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Sprinkles – Beginning June 11 through June 18, you can say “thank you” with the Sprinkles DAD box! Salty Caramel, Red Velvet, Black and White, Vanilla Milk Chocolate. The cupcakes have Sprinkles stars and DAD sugar decorations.

Tommy Bahama – To celebrate Father’s Day, for every $175 you spend from now through June 18, 2017, you’ll receive a $50 Award* to use on any purchase in our stores, or purchase of $100 or more in our restaurants or at tommybahama.com. *Your $50 Flip Side Award is good on purchases made between June 19 – July 16, 2017.

United World Soccer – On June 17 and June 18, you’ll receive 20% off an adult/youth full-priced Jersey bundle for Father’s Day. Discount applies to the customization add-on as well.

UGG – For Father’s Day week at UGG, you can receive a free leather money clip with any purchase of men’s product beginning on June 11 – June 18.

Sublime Gifts & Finds – Enjoy 15% off all “Dad Books” by Compendium Publishers from June 11 through June 18. Give your Dad a gift of the stories you share, written in your own words. When you’re finished, the book will be a keepsake.

Johnston & Murphy – If you buy one pair of pants or shirt for Dad, you’ll receive half off the 2nd item now through Father’s Day – June 18.

Columbia – Now through June 18, you’ll receive 25% off “almost everything” in the store to celebrate Father’s Day.

The Ganachery – Now through Father’s Day, you can enjoy a pairing of chipotle ganache and Knob Creek bourbon at a discounted price.

Disney’s Days of Christmas/The Art of Disney/Disney’s Wonderful World of Memories – You can find great gifts to personalize for Father’s Day 2017, included wood and metal frame engraving, personalized ornaments, and father/son themed sketches.

Here is the summary of all of the promotions and experiences available for Father’s Day 2017 at Disney Springs:

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

Meet Minions at Universal Orlando Resort with Gru and His Brother, Dru

Leave a reply

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Meet Minions at Universal Orlando Resort along with Gru and His Brother, Dru

Meet the cast of the new summer blockbuster, Despicable Me 3, in Universal Studios Florida. From now through Aug. 19, you’ll be able to meet Gru, his twin brother Dru, and of course, his Minions.

First, meet the Minions that are trading in their denim for stripes at the Jail Minion Tattoo Parlor near the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem attraction. Here you’ll be able to snap photos with the new Jail Minions from the movie and receive your very own temporary Minion tattoo.

Meet and Greet times are below. *Subject to change.

9:20 AM
10:20 AM
11:20 AM
1:20 PM
2:20 PM
3:20 PM

Next, head over to the KidZone area for a chance to meet Gru, Dru, new Tourist Minions, and Mel. You can take pictures with your favorite new friends, and dance along to the groovy soundtrack from the movie.The Tourist Minions even joined us in celebrating the opening of our new water theme park Universal’s Volcano Bay!

The Tourist Minions even joined us in celebrating the opening of our new water theme park Universal’s Volcano Bay!

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Meet and greet times are below. *Subject to change.

11:50 AM
12:50 PM
1:50 PM
2:50 PM
4:25 PM
5:40 PM

You can even share your photos with the Despicable Me 3 characters on social media using #UniversalMoments.

Do you already have a favorite character? Be on the lookout for all-new merchandise from Despicable Me 3, and take home memorabilia of your favorite characters.

(Photo: Universal Orlando Resort Blog)

Merchandise is available at the Universal Studios Store and the Super Silly Stuff store in Universal Studios, as well as the Trading Company in Universal’s Islands of Adventure.

Lastly, don’t miss out on the Despicable Me 3 weekend takeover at Universal CityWalk from June 30 – July 2. The Minions are taking over the lagoon stage and turning all-things yellow. Join us for a dance party and bust out your best moves. It will be bananas!

And, be sure to check out what exciting new adventures await Gru and his Minions in this very fun, new animated film. Despicable Me 3, hitting theaters June 30.

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.

Springs Street Eats Food Truck Rally at Disney Springs June 2-3, 2017

Leave a reply

(Photo: Disney Parks Blog)

A unique, new dining event is “rolling” into Disney Springs June 2 and 3, Springs Street Eats food truck rally! Springs Street Eats will feature eight food trucks, including some Central Florida favorites that you can usually find in Exposition Park as well as some new options! The trucks will be parked in the West Side neighborhood, outside of Cirque du Soleil on Friday, June 2 from 4 to 11 p.m. and Saturday, June 3 from noon until 11 p.m.

With live entertainment, Springs Street Eats food truck rally is sure to be a tasty event that’s fun for the whole family. Check out the details for all eight visiting food trucks below!

Fantasy Fare – Treat your senses to fan favorites found at Disney theme parks around the world – like the famous Hand-dipped Corn Dog!
World Showcase of Flavors – Try signature sandwiches inspired by the cuisine featured at the Global Marketplaces during the annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival.
Caketeer – Offers high quality gourmet cupcake and custom cake products throughout the Downtown Orlando and Central Florida area, made using the finest culinary-grade ingredients.
Philly’s Best Cheesesteaks – The best cheesesteaks in or out of Philly are on the prowl on the streets of Florida! Philly’s Best Cheesesteaks are serving up hot and fresh cheesesteak sandwiches just for you! Real Philly Cheesesteaks, you just can’t get any better than that!
900 Degreez Pizza – This converted container food truck features a bespoke imported Italian wood-fired oven that can cook a pizza in an unbelievable 90 seconds. The food truck façade features an all-glass panel that allows customers to view the chefs at work.
Magic 4 UR Palate – Maintaining a high standard and quality to creativity, our dishes are appealing to the eye and at the same time arouse the taste buds, leading you to crave more.
The London Fish and Chippy – Homemade beer batter is the perfect dip for preparing specialty haddock fish and chips. Bringing seafood lovers a vast selection of fresh fried seafood you will enjoy.
Tikiz Shaved Ice – Bringing sweets to the streets, Tikiz Shaved Ice is the ice cream truck of the future! Offering Ice Cream as well as refreshing Hawaiian Shaved Ice where Guests can dispense their own custom shaved ice syrup creations.

If you’ll be in the Orlando area next weekend, will you be heading over to check out Springs Street Eats?

(Thanks Disney Parks Blog!)

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. Call her at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com for your free, no obligation quote.

5 Tips on How to Make the Most of Your Universal Orlando Vacation

Leave a reply

5 Tips on How to Make the Most of Your Universal Orlando Vacation

Often when planning a big family/friend vacation to theme parks like Universal Orlando Resort, you want to maximize your trip to see and do everything that is possible.

But sometimes you only have a couple of days, and doing it all too quickly can lead to exhaustion if you don’t plan appropriately. Here are some of the best tips from someone who has experienced it first hand, on how to maximize your Universal Orlando trip.

1. Arrive At Least One Day Ahead

Depending on where you’re flying or driving in from, always try to arrive at least one day ahead. That way you give yourself time to acclimatize, catch up on sleep and keep you at your very best for when it’s time to hit the parks. It also allows you to adjust to the time zone change if there is one.

If your flight arrives late at night, I highly recommend giving yourself a buffer day the next day before going to the parks as well. The more time for adjustment and to relax the better—after all, you’re on vacation!

2. Stay On-Site At One Of Universal Orlando’s Five Hotels

One of the best things about staying at one of Universal Orlando’s on-site hotels is it gives you early access into the parks. That gives you one whole extra hour for exploring.

At Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel and Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Universal Express access is included in your stay. This is another great benefit of staying on-site.

All of the hotels are also connected by water, shuttle or walking path to the main gates of Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure through Universal CityWalk. You can use the complimentary water taxi, shuttle service or walking path as transportation to the parks each day so you don’t have to worry about your car.

3. Have A Park Map And Plan Out Your Day

Before you arrive, have everyone check out the Universal Orlando website and blog to see which rides and attractions interest them the most. Once you have everyone’s “must sees” and “must do’s,” plan out a mini itinerary for the order of which rides you’ll hit first, which park when, etc.

If you’re a big Harry Potter fan, I definitely recommend visiting The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade first thing in the morning. This will be when they’re the least busy and the ride times will be shortest.

You can also download the official Universal Orlando Mobile app for real-time attraction wait times and as a guide to find your way around the parks and Universal CityWalk. It includes a detailed, interactive map that makes navigating around the parks even easier.

4. Eat Your Breakfast

Start your day off right with a full belly. Eating before you hit the parks means less time searching for food once you arrive there in the morning. Also, it gives you energy to start your day off right and puts everyone in a good mood!

If you prefer to hit the parks first and like a later breakfast, there are several places in each park and Universal CityWalk to grab an early morning bite. There is a Starbucks in both parks and in Universal CityWalk that have great breakfast snacks. Or you can swing by the Leaky Cauldron in Diagon Alley or Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade for a full, sit-down breakfast. Visit Springfield U.S.A and don’t miss The Simpsons themed food and drinks – the only place where you can grab a Homer-sized helping of donuts at Lard Lad. There are also other great spots throughout the parks to fill up before you start the fun.

You can also start your day off right in an even more exciting way with a Character Breakfast. You’ll dine on an awesome breakfast buffet alongside the Minions and characters from Despicable Me, SpongeBob SquarePants and more. To find out the dates, times and locations for the character breakfasts click here.

5. Snack And Drink Lots Of Water

Drinking lots of water throughout the day is so important, especially on a hot sunny day. It’ll keep you from getting too tired and cranky as well. If you’re sweating a lot, you might even want to have some sports drinks to help replenish your electrolytes.

To keep you energized, have a couple snacks to enjoy while waiting in line for a ride. There are plenty of refreshing options such as fruit cups, ice cream and maybe even a famous Universal turkey leg—whatever floats your boat.

By following these simple tips, you’ll have the best time at Universal Orlando Resort. If you have any tips to share that help you maximize your time at Universal Orlando, please share them in the comments below!

Capture Harry Potter Memories at Shutterbutton’s Studio at Universal

Leave a reply

There is so much to take in when you walk through the brick wall into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley. My little witches and wizards were ready to start making magic as soon as we got there. Why? Because Universal Orlando Resort had invited us down to experience one of the hidden gems—Shutterbutton’s Photography Studio.

This special experience is located next to Madam Malkin’s Robes for all Occasionsacross from Ollivanders.

The staff welcomed us and explained how we could jump into some of the most iconic scenes from the Harry Potter movies and create our own moving photographs. We were sold and got right down to making magic!

We were fitted with house robes of our choice and even used our own wands as props. (Any item you’d like to bring and use is welcome as the robes are the only props available to borrow.)

We all stood behind a private green screen and were given easy directions to shoot our big screen debut. These moving photographs included 12 iconic scenes from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade.

We screamed in terror from the fire-breathing dragon on Gringotts Bank, and my son’s favorite scene was having his little sister appear on the “Have You Seen This Wizard?” poster. After we got to see a short preview of our scenes, they provided us with a DVD to take home, along with a digital copy.

The whole experience took about 20 minutes and we left with what I’m calling “the coolest souvenir ever”. It’s earned its place next to our wedding video, and I’m sure we will watch, laugh and remember our trip to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter for years to come.

The kids also love showing it to every friend that has come over, laughing each time they see themselves. Their friends think it’s pretty cool, too!

I would definitely make sure to stop into Shutterbutton’s before you leave Diagon Alley. These are the memories that become etched in time, as experiences like these are ones we will never forget.

Top 7 Pictures to Take at Universal Orlando Resort

Leave a reply

Top 7 Pictures to Take at Universal Orlando Resort

From Universal Studios Florida to Islands of Adventure, there are plenty of areas to take pictures throughout Universal Orlando Resort. You’ve probably seen the iconic Universal Globe from multiple angles, the fiery breath of the Ukrainian Ironbelly in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley, and every twist and turn of The Incredible Hulk Coaster. There are endless photo opportunities to take advantage of, yet many of the best can go unnoticed. These are some of our favorite insider spots to snap those eye-opening pics. Check out this list of the top seven pictures to take at Universal Orlando Resort:

1. You know him as the one who speaks for the trees and you can find him and his favorite things in Seuss Landing at Universal’s Islands of Adventure. That’s right, The Lorax! His Truffula Trees can be an enjoyable sight to see as you exit the Caro-Seuss-el. Try to find yourself a unique angle and you’ll be surprised at what you may capture.

2. The tales of ancient legends and myths come to life when you visit the island known as The Lost Continent at Islands of Adventure. Don’t miss out on Mythos Restaurant, which has an admirable structure you can see from across the inland sea. Most guests only see the front of the structure though, so we recommend taking a stroll to the back of the restaurant for a shot you won’t want to miss.

3. Are you ready to Rockit? No list would be complete without a mention of theHollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster at Universal Studios Florida. This angle often goes uncaptured and it is located near the old Ghostbusters library in the New York section of the park. When facing Rockit’s massive non-inverting loop, make your way to the right and head straight to the back of New York for a shot that (no pun intended) rocks!

4. The Pharos Lighthouse is a park icon that represents the unforgettable journey that is about to happen as you enter Islands of Adventure. While you may consider this a more obvious photo moment, we recommend taking a step back and observing the many angles and areas you can take a picture from. Besides, a night shot has a breathtaking view, don’t you agree?

5. The Lost Continent is such a gem we thought it deserved a second shout-out. With so many unique and unusual backdrops, there are countless spectacles to take pictures of. Come visit at night when the lights are lit and discover the magical opportunities that await.

6. Gringotts and the colossal fiery dragon atop the magical bank are the main draws of many eyes in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley. But just off the beaten path is a can’t-miss photo op in Knockturn Alley where the darkness and shadows make your pic look as real as the films. Explore Borgin and Burkes and take advantage of the slower traffic times to get this awesome photo.

7. Welcome to Isla Nublar – home of Jurassic Park. Overlooked by many, this view of the Discovery Center can be found at the very end of the Port of Entry. Simply head towards the water, passing the ride times sign in the process, for a photo that could have been taken straight out of the movie.

Bonus Photo Op:

Watch out for aliens while trying to get a shot in this attraction. MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack is an interactive ride where you have to zap aliens out of the streets of New York before they take over. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to snag the chance to take a tour of the Immigration Room at the end of the ride where you can snap an exclusive picture like this one.

Next time you pay a visit to Universal Orlando Resort try to look at the park from a different point of view. You never know what you might find!

Is there a unique photo op you think we missed? Let us know in the comments!

Treat Yourself to These Gourmet Candy Apples at Universal Orlando Resort

Leave a reply

Treat Yourselves to These Gourmet Candy Apples at Universal Orlando Resort

One of my favorite fruits to snack on is a crisp apple. So naturally, candy apples rank pretty high on my all-time favorite sweet treats list.

I set out one beautiful, fall day to hunt down the best gourmet candy apples throughout Universal Orlando Resort. Here are my top picks and where to find them:

Hello Kitty and Friends

These guys are almost too cute to eat! There are seven different apples you can choose from, including Keroppi and Chococat. The other five differ from chocolate coating, sprinkles, chocolate chips or cookie crumbles. But they all sport the iconic Hello Kitty bow.

You can find these apples in the Hello Kitty Shop located outside the streets of Hollywood Boulevard in Universal Studios Florida.

Despicable Me Minion

I went bananas for this Minion apple when I saw him. He’s our featured character apple with a delicious chocolate coating. You can find this little guy in either the Universal Studios Store or in the San Francisco Candy Shop in Universal Studios.

Flavors Galore

From unique flavors like Apple Pie to the classics, you can find a variety of flavors that every member of the family will enjoy. Featured above from left to right are the Rocky Road, Apple Pie and Heath apples. I have a deep love for all things marshmallow and chocolate, so the Rocky Road was the perfect one for me.

Like your apple covered with different toppings? Then you got to try one of below. From left to right you have Cookies and Cream, Milk Chocolate with M&M’s and the classic Caramel with Peanuts.

You can find all these different flavors and more at the sweet shops in both Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios.

The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen

Yes, these do exist and aren’t a figment of your imagination. The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium in Universal CityWalk has created the most decadent gourmet apples – perfect for the chocolate lover at heart. You’ve got four to choose from, or if you’re like me, you can indulge in all of them.

Here’s the breakdown for each one (from left to right):

The Ultimate Sundae: Chocolate on chocolate on chocolate topped with cherries
The Cookies R’ Us: Taking cookies and cream to the next level
Ooey Gooey Apple: A cookies and peanut butter party for your mouth
The Decadent Apple: Keep it classy with a beautiful mix of chocolate and caramel

Is your sweet tooth tingling yet? As you plan your next visit to Universal Orlando Resort, make sure to add these to your “must-do” list. You won’t be disappointed.

How to Use Your TapuTapu at Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando Resort

Leave a reply

How to Use Your TapuTapu at Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando Resort

Universal’s Volcano Bay is almost here and I can’t wait! Grand opening May 25, Universal’s third theme park will feature incredibly immersive experiences, thrilling attractions, relaxing escapes and—my favorite—the TapuTapu wearable.

This new, waterproof device is exclusive to Volcano Bay. With TapuTapu on your wrist, you’ll enjoy a new level of convenience with Virtual Line technology and multiple interactive surprises throughout the park. No standing in long lines AND endless fun? Sign me up.

TapuTapu is going to completely transform your vacation experience. Here’s how to use this simple device:

Arrive at Universal’s Volcano Bay and get ready for a day full of fun and relaxation.

Receive your TapuTapu wearable as you enter the park. Every guest will receive TapuTapu for the day to unlock the wonders of our island paradise.

Look for totems marked with the Volcano Bay logo at the entrance to each attraction. Upon touching your TapuTapu to the totems, you’ll be able to hold your place in line with Virtual Line. Explore the park, take a spin in one of two rivers or grab a bit to eat. Your TapuTapu will alert you when it’s time to ride.

You’ll also be able to unlock interactive surprises throughout the park. Control streams of water spurting from whales in Tot Tiki Reef. Shoot water cannons at other guests snaking down Kopiko Wai Winding River. Or illuminate images in the volcano’s hidden caves.

Return your TapuTapu as you exit the park, and remember all the fun you had at Volcano Bay!

What are you most looking forward to about Volcano Bay? Let us know in the comments below.

Discover the Story Behind Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando Resort

Leave a reply

Discover the Story Behind Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando Resort

Whenever we create a new ride or land, an incredible story is always our starting point. And while creating an immersive, one-of-a-kind water theme park seemed like a challenge in itself, we knew amazing storytelling would be at the core of our creation.

Today, I’m sharing with you the inspiration behind this tropical paradise and introducing you to the Waturi, the islanders who call Volcano Bay home.

The Creation Myth

It all began with the fiery god, Krakatau (kra-kuh-TAU). Though his wrath and fury dominated the land, he couldn’t contain the adventurous spirit of his daughter, Tai Nui (tie-NOO-ee). She fell in love with a native youth named Kala (KAH-lah). And when her fiercely protective father learned of the romance, he flew into a rage. He banished Kala forever to the sky, where he became the Moon.

Overcome with grief, Tai Nui’s tears became the Sea. Krakatau then realized he had only succeeded in destroying what mattered most to him: his daughter’s happiness. Determined to reunite the young lovers, he reached into the earth and pulled it to the sky – creating the volcano of Volcano Bay. Krakatau trapped the remains of his anger and jealousy in the form of the fire spirit, Vol, whom he imprisoned deep within the volcano.

This is how the Sky, Sea and Earth united to form the paradise of Volcano Bay.

The Waturi Legend

Before they came to Volcano Bay, the Waturi (wah-TOO-ree) traversed the ocean in outrigger canoes in search of a new home. According to the legend, a mystical fish named Kunuku (koo-NOO-koo) was destined to guide them.

Their voyages took them to the far corners of the South Pacific. And wherever they went, the Waturi embraced the customs, music and art of the many people they encountered. But alas, nowhere did they find Kunuku.

On and on they searched, until they came to the very edge of the world. And it was there that they found Kunuku playing in the waves. Within a day, Kunuku and the winds of fortune lead the travelers to the shores of Volcano Bay. The Waturi knew that, at long last, they had found home.

Your Arrival Story

When you come to Volcano Bay, you’ll be welcomed as one of the Waturi family. The islanders have never forgotten the kindness and generosity their ancestors encountered in their journeys across the Pacific. It is that same spirit of friendship that they extend to every guest who visits Volcano Bay.

Upon your arrival, you will be provided with your own waterproof TapuTapu wearable – designed specifically and exclusively for use in Volcano Bay. With its Virtual Line and TapTu Play capabilities, TapuTapu allows you to live on Waturi time and feel as one with the island’s carefree way of life.

Throughout Volcano Bay, you’ll discover a vibrant blend of Polynesian cultures and architecture from across the South Pacific – all inspired by the travels of the Waturi. You’ll also find surprises throughout the park, including Vol – the ancient fiery spirit trapped inside the Krakatau volcano.

Insider tip: You’ll have the opportunity to speak with Vol inside the volcano. But first, you have to find him…

The Waturi believe in living life to its fullest and creating stories through adventures. I can’t wait for you to create your own stories and embrace your inner Waturi when Volcano Bay grand opens on May 25.

Select 3-Park tickets and package offers are now available. Contact us today for more information.

Spreading Magic

Travel Agent Specializing in Family & Romance Travel

Category Archives: Florida

Six Reasons to Plan a Visit for Summer 2017 at Disney World

Celebrate Father’s Day 2017 at Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort

Meet Minions at Universal Orlando Resort with Gru and His Brother, Dru

Springs Street Eats Food Truck Rally at Disney Springs June 2-3, 2017

5 Tips on How to Make the Most of Your Universal Orlando Vacation

Capture Harry Potter Memories at Shutterbutton’s Studio at Universal

Top 7 Pictures to Take at Universal Orlando Resort

Treat Yourself to These Gourmet Candy Apples at Universal Orlando Resort

How to Use Your TapuTapu at Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando Resort

Discover the Story Behind Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando Resort