Tag Archives: Universal Orlando Resort

Loews Sapphire Falls Resort Brings a New Paradise to Universal Orlando

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We’re just weeks away from the arrival of first guests at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, and let me tell you, this place looks absolutely remarkable! Today, the time has arrived to give you an inside look at the inspiration and story behind this tropical oasis. So let your worries wash away and ease into island time.

From cascading waterfalls and massive stone turrets to vintage rum and fresh ceviche, we’ve always been drawn to the history and allure of the Caribbean. Imagine, in the middle of a secluded island, we stumble upon a winding river leading to a beautiful, sapphire-blue swimming hole surrounded by ancient stone ruins and dense palms – the perfect environment to reshape into your exclusive island hideaway.

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The resort is directly inspired by magnificent landmarks and architectural ruins from islands throughout the Caribbean – towering stone turrets, beautiful rock walls and a spinning waterwheel accent the tropical landscape and waterway twisting through the property.

In fact, you’ll never be far away from crystal-clear, serene water when you’re here. You’ll be greeted by waterfalls cascading into a sparkling pond upon arrival, which is your first glimpse of the amazing water features throughout the resort. There’s a gorgeous pool, surrounded by two sand beaches, a quintessential Caribbean waterfall – inspired by Jamaica’s iconic Dunn’s River Falls – and a breathtaking lush lagoon. It’s from this lagoon that you can hop on a water taxi to travel to our theme parks, CityWalk and our other on-site hotels.

The wide expanses of the Caribbean Sea inspired us to do something grand – design the largest pool at any of our resort hotels. But we didn’t want to just make a bigger pool, we wanted to do things that we’ve never done before. That’s why the Sapphire Falls pool has random and slightly varying depths to mimic the sea floor. There’s also a huge fire pit for the entire family to enjoy after the sun sets. Those are just a couple of the many unique features you’ll have some fun exploring.

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With every step you’ll escape deeper into that distinctive attitude of island living. The beautiful new rooms in our Caribbean-inspired guest houses are designed to envelop you with a sense of relaxation from the moment you arrive. You’ll find it easy to let go and enjoy your incredibly themed private retreat. And just outside awaits the excitement and adventure of Universal Orlando’s two incredible theme parks.

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Vacation is as much about great drinks and dining as it is about the journey itself. That’s why we’ve created Strong Water Tavern, a stylish hangout with reclaimed wood, mahogany leather and exposed brick throughout. Let our rum captains take you on a one-of-a-kind cocktail journey, or enjoy the many variations of fresh ceviche available throughout the resort.

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At nearby Amatista Cookhouse, you can indulge your appetite with waterfront dining and watch our chefs at work preparing delightful dishes highlighting the freshest ingredients.

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Both experiences will give you a true taste of Caribbean flavors and define all that is unique and special about Sapphire Falls!

All of this and more can be yours in just a few weeks. Book a stay now to be one of the first to enjoy all this island escape has to offer! Plus, you can sample all the flavors of Sapphire Falls with a limited-time offer that includes a free dining credit to make your stay with us even more special.

We’ll see you in paradise soon!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios 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. 

Encounter The Mighty Legend Himself in Skull Island: Reign of Kong

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We’ve all heard the incredible story, the revolutionary ride vehicle and the unimaginable creatures that await you in the multidimensional attraction, Skull Island: Reign of Kong at Universal Orlando Resort. And now, Universal Orlando Resort is going to let us in on a little secret…

Actually, a three-story tall secret. That’s right – this summer, we will astound you with the most visceral encounter with King Kong ever.

As you near the finale of your heart-pounding expedition, you’ll be so close to the legendary beast that you can feel his breath sweep across your skin and his thunderous roar reverberate through every bone in your body. You’re in his territory now.

But is he our friend or our foe? You’ll have to come ride Skull Island: Reign of Kong for yourself to find out.

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Are you planning to visit Universal Orlando Resort this summer or fall so you can come face to face with the mighty legend himself in Skull Island: Reign of Kong? We can help!

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios 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. 

Discover the Inspiration Behind The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium at Universal’s CityWalk

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Discover the Inspiration Behind The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium

Inspiration Behind The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium

Recently, Universal Orlando Resort announced the next original concept in a line of unique venues coming to Universal CityWalk, The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium. The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium will be a delectable dining experience that combines chocolate and savory dishes with a fun atmosphere. Today, you can learn more about the inspiration behind The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium.

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The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen is the next evolution of dining at CityWalk, following a groundbreaking two years of unprecedented growth that includes other original concepts from the Universal team like NBC Sports Grill & Brew, Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food, Vivo Italian Kitchen, and Red Oven Pizza Bakery.

The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium elevate everyone’s favorite confection to the next level by combining the incredible storytelling from Universal Orlando’s Creative and Entertainment teams with the high quality service and delectable dishes of Universal Orlando’s Food & Beverage team.

As Universal Orlando looked for inspiration, the Steampunk era really stood out with its rebellious spirit of creation and industrial influences. After delving deeper into the genre and its design elements, they found the structural shapes and rich color palettes to evoke exactly the type of experience that they wanted to create for their guests. It was the perfect fit.

Steampunk-Inspiration

Even from afar, you’ll see the Steampunk influence with working gears and smokestacks. Once you step inside, hosts dressed in alternative fashions will greet you. The sights and sounds of brass gadgetry and manufacturing will immediately surround you.

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And of course, you’ll be able to indulge in all of the delectable creations – from the decadent milkshakes to the eclectic savory dishes, there’s plenty to choose from. You’ll have to discover your favorite later this year.

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Stay tuned for more exciting news about The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen, including more scrumptious details on the amazing menu items inspired by cuisine from across the globe.

Would you like to visit Universal Orlando Resort? Contact Siera today at 734-771-1290 or siera@destinationsinflorida.com for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Experience The Exorcist at Halloween Horror Nights 26

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Experience The Exorcist at Halloween Horror Nights 26 

Haunting. Shocking. Indelible.

These are words that describe my feelings when I first saw The Exorcist.

The film is a benchmark in so many ways. It was the first horror film to be nominated for Best Picture. It helped lead the charge in a sequence of “demonic child” storylines. And it has often been replicated in many horror films today, irrefutably placing it among the kings of influential horror pop culture.

And now that influence has found its way to Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights in an all-new haunted maze. As with any horror property we collaborate with, our job is to create an attraction that adapts that property into a fully realized experience. That adaptation is a creative challenge in every case.

But translating The Exorcist presented us with many unique tests and questions. One big question was, “How do you adapt a film where most of the story takes place in a single bedroom?”

The answer we landed on was first to break down and assess all the visuals and moments from the film. Piece together every moment within that bedroom and examine why it was intense, scary or even vile. What textures can we reconstruct differently, sometimes in an incredibly abstract way?

The famous “pea soup” scene for instance. What if we were surrounded in the materials of the retch-covered bed? What if those layers of mattress padding literallyenveloped us? And let’s be honest, traversing through a vomit-covered bed is pretty horrifying and disgusting by itself. Now add a possessed girl into the mix!

Just like this amazing film, the maze needs to overcome you—even possess you (wink)—with its visuals, characters and environments. It needs to force you on its horrific quest for this young girl’s very soul and spit you out the other side. That is our goal and we are beside ourselves with excitement at the opportunity to do so this year.

Getting pumped for this year’s Halloween Horror Nights? We are too! Halloween Horror Nights vacation packages are now available and selling out quickly!

Are you attending Halloween Horror Nights 26?

The Unimaginable Creatures Coming to Skull Island: Reign of Kong

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Unimaginable Creatures Coming to Skull Island: Reign of Kong

Massive winged beasts that hunt from the skies. Serpentine predators that burrow through the earth and attack from below. Giant insects that infest the jungles. These are just a few of the deadly creatures you’ll encounter on Skull Island: Reign of Kong.

When you embark this summer at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, you won’t be alone. Here you’ll come face to face with unimaginable creatures that prowl this mysterious and foreboding world.

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Arachno-claw

These carnivorous arachnids move throughout the swampy underworld of the island’s dark caverns, foraging for dead or injured creatures. The six-legged scavenger uses its crab-like claws to crush its prey before feasting on the remains.

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Carnictis

The giant, slug-like Carnictis lacks eyes or facial features. But its gaping, oozing mouth—ringed with sharp, jagged teeth—is a distinguishing feature that allows this slow but relentless creature to feed on dead and wounded beings that have succumbed to the wretched, murky chasms of the island.

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Decarnocimex

One of the largest and most aggressive cave-dwelling inhabitants on the island, the Decarnocimex will attack anything smaller or weaker that dares to cross its path. These vicious insects tear apart their prey with their razor-sharp mandibles and two-bladed forearms.

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These are the largest flying predators on the island, with wingspans up to 10 feet. They live in colonies within the island’s interior caverns and are easily provoked. Spearing victims with lethal talons, they use large carnivorous fangs to penetrate anything—or anyone—caught in their jaws of death.

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Vastatosaurus rex

The V. Rex is the largest, most intimidating dinosaur that roams the island’s dense jungles. Despite its large, bulky head and tough leathery skin, it’s an agile predator, changing direction at high speeds and ripping into its prey with razor-sharp teeth.

Are you ready to face them all?

And, you can tune into Syfy on March 30 at 9/8c to see a whole new side to these terrifying creatures on the hit special effects makeup show, Face Off.

Are you going to Universal Orlando Resort this summer to brave Skull Island: Reign of Kong? Contact Siera at 734-771-1290 or siera@destinationsinflorida.com for more information or your free, no obligation quote. 

Don’t Miss Universal Orlando’s Epic Savings Event

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Universal Orlando’s Epic Savings Event

You won’t want to miss Universal Orlando’s Epic Savings Event this week! You can enjoy a four night Universal Orlando Resort vacation package for as little as $99 per adult, per night, including taxes!

Universal Partner Hotels: 

Starting from $99 per adult, per night, tax inclusive

  • FREE scheduled transportation to Universal Orlando
  • Discounts on merchandise, food & non-alcoholic beverages at select theme park & Universal CityWalk® locations

Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort: 

Starting from $145 per adult, per night, tax inclusive

  • Complimentary transportation to both theme parks and Universal CityWalk® make getting around the resort fast and easy so you can make the most of your time
  • Complimentary delivery of merchandise purchased throughout the resort to your hotel
  • Resort-wide charging privileges with your room key card

Loews Royal Pacific Resort

Starting from $219 per adult, per night, tax inclusive

  • FREE Universal Express℠ Unlimited ride access to skip the regular lines in both theme parks – a benefit worth up to $89 per person, per day
  • Complimentary transportation to both theme parks and Universal CityWalk® make getting around the resort fast and easy so you can make the most of your time
  • Complimentary delivery of merchandise purchased throughout the resort to your hotel
  • Resort-wide charging privileges with your room key card
  • And more!

Hard Rock Hotel

Starting from $239 per adult, per night, tax inclusive

  • FREE Universal Express℠ Unlimited ride access to skip the regular lines in both theme parks – a benefit worth up to $89 per person, per day
  • Complimentary transportation to both theme parks and Universal CityWalk® make getting around the resort fast and easy so you can make the most of your time
  • Priority seating at select restaurants throughout both theme parks and Universal CityWalk®
  • And more!

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel 

Starting from $249 per adult, per night, tax inclusive

  • FREE Universal Express℠ Unlimited ride access to skip the regular lines in both theme parks – a benefit worth up to $89 per person, per day
  • Complimentary transportation to both theme parks and Universal CityWalk® make getting around the resort fast and easy so you can make the most of your time
  • Priority seating at select restaurants throughout both theme parks and Universal CityWalk®
  • And more!

Plus, only when you book your Universal Orlando vacation package with us, can you receive the following extra benefits:

  • Guide to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter ($19.99 value)
  • Universal Perks- tips and tricks to help you get excited about and prepare for your vacation ($299 value)
  • Free Itinerary Planning ($149 value)
  • Free Dining Suggestions & Reservation Planning ($69 value)
  • And more!

To take advantage of Universal Orlando’s epic savings events, you must book your vacation by April 6, 2016 for travel now through June 10, 2016. Contact Siera today for more information or your free no obligation quote at 734-771-1290 or siera@destinationsinflorida.com!

Please note that all prices, package inclusions & options are subject to availability and to change without notice and additional restrictions may apply, per Universal Orlando Resort.

 

Free Dining Credit at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort at Universal

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Book your next Universal vacation and get a free dining credit at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort!

You can be one of the first to experience Universal Orlando® Resort’s new island jewel – Loews Sapphire Falls Resort – and receive a FREE $150 dining credit* (per room) by booking any vacation package with a 4-night stay or longer by May 31, 2016.

Plus, hotel guests enjoy exclusive benefits including:

  • Early Park Admission† to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ one hour before the general public (valid theme park admission required)
  • Resort-wide charging privileges with room key
  • Complimentary transportation to both theme parks and Universal CityWalk®

This offer won’t last long so book your Universal Orlando Resort vacation and get a free dining credit at Loews Sapphire Falls Resort today!

* Offer valid for select travel dates July 14- December 15, 2016 with blockout dates November 23- November 26, 2016.

This is a great time to start thinking about Halloween Horror Nights 26 which runs mid-September through October! The nation’s premier Halloween event quickly sells out each year so start planning your visit now.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida. She would love to help you plan your Universal Orlando adventure at no cost to you! Call her at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com for more information or for your free, no obligation quote. Plus, you will receive our Guide to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter ($19.99 value) when you book your Universal Orlando Resort vacation with us!

Halloween Horror Nights® 25 at Universal Orlando® Resort

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Halloween Horror Nights® 25 at Universal Orlando® Resort THE NATION’S PREMIER HALLOWEEN EVENT

Now in its 25th terrifying year, Universal Orlando® Resort’s Halloween Horror Nights®, the nation’s premier annual Halloween event, puts you right into some of the most pulse- pounding moments in horror history. During the day, you can experience the fun and excitement of Universal Orlando’s two amazing theme parks. But on select nights from September 18th through November 1st, 2015, the streets of Universal Studios Florida® theme park come alive with hordes of horrifying mutants, monsters and maniacs. All throughout the night you’ll be completely immersed in the worlds of the biggest names in horror.

With 25 years of experience to draw from, nobody creates a more nightmarish Halloween event than Universal Orlando, filled with truly original scares and authentic horror movie moments. You can explore terrifying haunted houses, each remarkably themed and detailed by Universal’s designers and special effects wizards. You’ll make your way through multiple scare zones where gory and grotesque creatures lurk around every turn. You’ll roar with laughter at outrageous live shows. And, you can experience many of the park’s most exciting rides and attractions.

Halloween Horror Nights is a seven-time winner of Amusement Today’s “Best Halloween Event” Golden Ticket award. Tony Timpone, Editor of Fangoria Magazine, said, “After visiting scream parks all across the U.S. for the last 20 years, I can easily say that Universal’s is the best in the business… Halloween Horror Nights is the ultimate Halloween experience.” The 25th edition of this must-see event promises to bring to life the ultimate in scares past, present and future. Add Halloween Horror Nights to your daytime fun at Universal Orlando® Resort for the ultimate in thrills and chills.

WARNING! EVENT MAY BE TOO INTENSE FOR YOUNG CHILDREN AND IS NOT RECOMMENDED FOR CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 13. NO COSTUMES OR MASKS ALLOWED.
Separately ticketed event. Event occurs rain or shine. Dates, times, attractions and entertainment are subject to availability and may change without notice. Other restrictions may apply. Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2015 Universal Studios. © 2015 Universal Orlando. All rights reserved.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Request your free, no obligation quote on the right side of the page or email siera@destinationsinflorida.com for more information. 

Black Friday Travel Deals

november-24-digestWe all know about the great deals that you can get on Black Friday and Cyber Monday on TV’s, electronics, toys, and home goods. However, you may not realize all of the amazing Black Friday travel deals that you can take advantage of when you book your next vacation this weekend!

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Free Family Suite Upgrade, Free $50 Resort Credit & Free Day to Play at Universal Orlando Resort:

You can enjoy the classic retro-style and ultra-modern comforts of Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort starting from just $119 per adult per night when you book by December 1! This offer includes a Free Family Suite upgrade, a $50 credit for dining at the resort, and 2-Day Park-to-Park tickets with a 3rd Day Free!

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Image: Property of Sandals Resorts

Up to $1000 Instant Air Credit, Free Gift, and Resort Credits at Sandals and Beach Resorts in the Caribbean: 

Sandals Resorts and Beaches Resorts are offering an exclusive sale for Black Friday and Cyber Monday. You will receive a free Amoro for Sandals “Tell Your Own Love Story” Bracelet with two free charms (valued at $225) or you can receive three free charms to add to an existing Amoro for Sandals Bracelet. You must book a minimum four-night Luxury Included® Vacation at any Sandals Resort or Beaches Resort by December 2, 2014, for travel through December 27, 2015.

In addition, if you book a six-night stay or more at Beaches Ocho Rios Spa, Golf & Waterpark for travel in 2015, you will also receive a “Mega Sale Booking Bonus” credit of $275.  If you book 6 nights or more at Sandals La Source Grenada, Sandals Barbados or Sandals Emerald Bay, you will also enjoy an “End of Year Booking Bonus” credit of $190.

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Royal Caribbean BOGO’s & Free Shipboard Credit:  Royal Caribbean is offering tons of savings when you book your next cruise during Black Friday weekend.  Take advantage of 50% off reduced deposit, 50% off second adult in the room, and you can get up to a $300 shipboard credit to spend during your cruise.  Tons of savings on your next cruise! Plus, if you book on Cyber Monday (December 1), you can receive up to $400 in onboard credits!

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Last Minute December Cruises at Big Savings with Disney Cruise Line:  Take a 3-Night or 4-Night Cruise out of Port Canaveral (just 45 minutes from Orlando) and save big!  Prices start from just $188 per person per night plus tax/port fees.  For a family of 2, that is just $1,128 plus $69 per person for taxes/port fees.  These discount cruises include December 4, December 7 and December 11 sailings.  Hurry, these cruise rates end on November 30.

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Up to 50% off Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya: You can enjoy savings up to 50% off an all inclusive vacation at The Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya for most dates between January 1 and April 30, 2015! Great deals also available at Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana in Dominican Republic! Book by December 2, 2014!

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Norwegian Cruise Line’s Reduced Deposit and Onboard Credits: You can take advantage of 50% reduced deposit and up to $250 to spend onboard any of Norwegian’s ships when you book a Norwegian Cruise Line vacation. Book by December 2, 2014!

Busch Gardens Tampa BOGO’s:  Starting at midnight on Friday, Busch Gardens is offering a lot of amazing deals on their tickets and behind the scene experiences.  If you buy a 1-Day Pass at the regular price, you get 50% off a second ticket.  If you buys a Behind the Scenes Tour, you get a second one FREE!

Sea World Christmas Package with FREE Tickets & More:  Book your family vacation to Sea World and take advantage of another BOGO!  You will get one free child ticket (3-9) for every paid adult.  Plus, book by December 1 and you also get a free Santa’s Fireside Feast for every child (3-9), with a paid adult.

Plus, if you book a vacation package totaling $3,000 or more (excluding airfare) by Monday, December 1, you will also receive a $50 gift card and $50 travel voucher to use towards your next vacation!

Which one of these Black Friday travel deals are you most excited about?

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations to Explore. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Request your free, no obligation quote on the right side of the page or email siera@destinationstoexplore.com for more information. 

Halloween Horror Nights 2014 Coming to Universal Orlando Resort

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Halloween Horror Nights 2014 is coming to Universal Orlando Resort on select nights this fall! Halloween Horror Nights is “the nation’s premier Halloween event.” This Halloween themed event will be held on select nights between September 19 and November 1, 2014.

When you attend Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando, you will step right into some of the “most pulse-pounding moments in horror history.” You will be fully immerse in the world’s biggest names in horror, including AMC’s hit show “The Walking Dead.” You can walk right into the most recent season of this show in the event’s largest house ever that will have more scareactors in a single house than ever before!

There are Halloween Horror Nights Hotel and Ticket packages available. You can enjoy a three-night stay at Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort for as little as $459 per adult, including taxes. This price is valid for travel from Sundays through Thursdays from September 19, 2014 through November 1, 2014.

“It’s never too soon to start panicking.”

Halloween Horror Nights may be too intense for younger kids and is not recommended for children under 13 years of age.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, the Universal Orlando Agency of the Year in 2010, 2011, and 2012. Request your free, no obligation quote on the right side of the page or email siera@destinationsinflorida.com for more information.