Category Archives: United States

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

(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

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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!

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.

Capture Harry Potter Memories at Shutterbutton’s Studio at Universal

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

Five Best Snacks at Disney World

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Walt Disney World Resort has so many delicious dining options, from elegant multi-course meals at fine dining establishments to tasty snacks and treats. No matter what your taste buds prefer, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Disney World! It is so hard to pick just my top five, but these are, in my opinion, the best snacks at Disney World.

Dole Whip Float: The Dole Whip (pineapple ice cream) only gets better when you add fresh Dole pineapple juice. This treat can only be found at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Magic Kingdom Park so be sure to stop when you have the chance.
Plaza Ice Cream Sundae: There are a number of ice cream flavors to choose from here such as vanilla, chocolate, birthday cake, mint chocolate chip, and more. You can then choose your sundae toppings and even have it served in a freshly made waffle bowl. This is a great treat to enjoy during Festival of Fantasy parade, Main Street Electrical Parade, or Wishes.
Cupcakes: You can get cupcakes from a variety of locations throughout Walt Disney World Resort, but my favorite is Starring Rolls at Hollywood Studios. They often have limited time offerings (seasonal), but always have some “staples” like the Butterfinger cupcake or the Red Velvet cupcake.
Caramel Corn: You can get warm, fresh caramel corn from Karamel Kuche inside the Germany pavilion at Epcot. Even if you aren’t a fan of caramel, I highly recommend stopping in for the free smells.
Mickey Ice Cream Sandwich: Most people love the Mickey Ice Cream Bar, but another great treat is the Mickey ice cream sandwich which has cookies and cream ice cream filled between two soft chocolate cookies.

What do you think the best snacks at Disney World are?

Three Reasons to Attend Caribbean Carnaval at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort

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If you’re craving a journey through the Caribbean islands, look no further than the new Caribbean Carnaval at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort.

Beginning April 5, you can add this family-friendly, fun-filled dinner show to your visit and experience the delightful tastes, festive sounds and dances of the Bahamas, Cuba, Jamaica, Barbados and Trinidad. The festivities take place every Wednesday at 6 p.m. in the Cayman Court at Sapphire Falls.

Here are three reasons why you’ll want to join the Caribbean Carnaval party.

Delicious Food and Drinks

Not only is the food at Caribbean Carnaval delectable, it’s all you can enjoy! The dinner includes authentic dishes from around the Caribbean, such as Mojo Roasted Suckling Pig, Ropa Vieja, and Jerk Chicken. And with everything from vegetarian to gluten-free options, there’s something for everyone to devour.

You can also enjoy complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, wine, beer, and Planter’s Punch – one of the signature drinks from Strong Water Tavern.

The Island Music is Jammin’

While the food and drinks are enough to entice any island lover, the music and entertainment really transport you to the Caribbean. Jam out to a live band, complete with steel drums, that covers island inspired hits.

You’ll Want To Conga The Night Away

All of the authentic food and music makes you want to get up and dance. The energy of the dancers is contagious as they show you how to shake it Caribbean style. Once you find your rhythm, be sure to jump in the conga line and see how low you can limbo.

Whether you’re a local or visiting Orlando, Caribbean Carnaval is the perfect escape for anyone. Grab your tickets and enjoy the flavorful dishes, electrifying music, and high-energy dancing.

Caribbean Carnaval takes place each Wednesday evening in the Cayman Court at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort. Tickets are required. Self-parking for the event is complimentary.

Visit The Fast and the Furious Cars at Universal Studios Florida

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Visit The Fast and the Furious Cars at Universal Studios Florida

Now through the end of April, you’ll be able to delve into the world of The Fast and the Furious at Universal Studios Florida. Three cars from Universal Pictures The Fate of the Furious will make their debut in-park in the San Francisco area across from Lombard’s Seafood Grille.

Guests can gear up for the April 14 release of The Fate of the Furious by snapping a photo of the cars and read up on how they were used in the movie. Then, in 2018, guests will be able to join the Fast family by riding Universal Orlando Resort’s new attraction, Fast & Furious: Supercharged.

Get your pic next to Dom (Vin Diesel)’s Ice Charger, a 1970 Dodge Charger with a high-speed Hellcat V8 engine.

Snap a selfie in front of Roman (Tyrese Gibson)’s 2004 Bentley GT, a turbocharged beauty.

Admire the power of Letty (Michelle Rodriguez)’s Rally Fighter, designed for any and all obstacles and conditions.

These cars are only here until April, so make sure to speed on over to Universal Orlando Resort soon!

Will you be visiting Orlando this spring to check out The Fast and the Furious Cars at Universal Studios Florida?

Spreading Magic

Travel Agent Specializing in Family & Romance Travel

Category Archives: United States

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

Five Best Snacks at Disney World

Three Reasons to Attend Caribbean Carnaval at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort

Visit The Fast and the Furious Cars at Universal Studios Florida