Hot Air Balloon Ride in Florida

Why not try a magical experience in Orlando?

Get involved in inflating the balloon and when it is ready, hop on board and spend an hour on board a thrill seekinf ride that rivals anything you might do on the ground.

During your flight the pilot will point out views including : Florida's natural preserves, beautiful resorts, and eye catching attractions.

Flights take place in the Disney area.

At the end of your flight enjoy complimentary champagne or a soft drink to celebrate your wonderful experience and a free breakfast provided in the banquet area at which you will receive a personalised flight certificate.

A truly magical and unforgettable experience.

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Airboat Rides at Boggy Creek

Top up your florida vacation with a world famous Airboat Ride at Boggy Creek West.

Discover territory that remains unaltered by man in the wilderness of the Central Florida Everglades. Experienced Master Captains take you into the breathtaking beauty of natural wonders, including wetlands, cypress trees, and wildlife. Ride with a U.S. Coast Gurad Captain searching for alligators, turtles and birds in their natural environment. The airboats whisk across the waters at speeds of up to 45 mph whilst shooting between walls of tall grass. These rides are safe for adults and children.

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Best Public Golf Course in Orlando

Orange County National Golf Center and Lodge; two of the finest public golf courses Orlando Florida has to offer.

If you are looking for the best golf in Orlando, FL and want to know who has the finest course layouts, conditions and facilities, look no further than Orange County National Golf Center and Lodge. For the golf fanatic, it has everything - 36 holes per day, first class instruction, first class driving range. Two championship courses, a 9 hole short course, several onsite instruction schools and the largest driving range and practice facility in America are all there.

You do not have to be a great player to enjoy Orange County National; you just have to Love Golf! A Lot of golf!

In fact Orange County National has 45 fabulous holes, on 922 beautiful acres of unspoiled rolling terrain. Pure Golf, the way it was meant to be played, in peace and tranquility with nothing to distract your game except the rugged natural beauty of your surroundings. You will feel a million miles from anywhere; yet will be just a few miles from Disney, the convention center and all the entertainment Orlando has to offer.

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Club la Vela in Panama City

Club La Vela in Panama City, Florida, is not only the largest nightclub in the USA, it is also one of the trendiest and most respected nightclubs in the world. This nightclub continuously reinvents itself to stay on the cutting edge of entertainment and club life.

By doing so Club La Vela adds new theme rooms on a yearly basis to its already huge arsenal of onsite clubs all of which are located under one roof! Each theme room has its own atmosphere, ambience, feel, and audience. You'll find Hip-Hop, Bootie, and High-Energy Dance fans in the THUNDERDOME, Club La Vela's largest multi-story theme room featuring a sound system you can feel in your chest, and a lightshow like no other in North America!

If you're into techno-music, the UNDERGROUND, NIGHTGALLERY, & GALAXY ROOM are for you as thousands of people dance to the unifying beats, Chicago Hard House, Jungle, and Break Beats spun by internationally renown DJ's and producers. Live Music fans feast their appetite for some incredible live Rock in the ROCK ARENA where the country's hottest touring bands tear up the stage.

Upstairs, the newest theme room, PENTHOUSE LOUNGE, offers premium spirits, modern decor, plush seating, and private seating areas.

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Cocoa Beach for Jazz

Heidi's Jazz Club has been the number one hangout for jazz lovers and jazz musicians on Florida's Space Coast since Heidi and Eddie opened the club in 1992. It features live music every Tuesday through Sunday with featured performers on selected Friday and Saturday evenings and Heidi's Open Jam Session every Sunday evening starting at 7 PM.

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Laugh Away at Sak Comedy Lab

Nestled inside the Centropex II parking garage in downtown Orlando, SAK Comedy Lab offers up some of the funniest improvised comedy in the Central Florida area. Show themes change regularly and a variety of nationally and internationally recognized comedians are often featured creating a unique experience each time you visit.

All shows are family friendly but may border on a PG-13 rating with certain puns or innuendos. Adults, teens and children will find humour in the shows. Audience participation is encouraged and for special occasions (birthday, anniversary) you can even request to be part of the show.

Some snacks are served along with non-alcoholic drinks.

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Things to do in Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale has an extensive Art and Entertainment district that runs east to west along Las Olas Blvd, from the beach to the heart of the city. This is where you'll find the Broward Center for the Performing Arts as well as the "Elbow Room", which was featured in 'Where the Boys Are". In March, the city also hosts the annual Langerado music festival, where everything from Rap to Reggae is welcomed. As for dinning, dancing and shopping, be sure to check out the trendy Riverfront.

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Silver Spurs Rodeo in Orlando

Grab your cowboy boots and go for some great family fun at the Silver Spurs Rodeo. Events such as bull riding, steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding, bareback riding, and barrel racing, along with crowd-pleasing cowboy clowns, will all take place at every show.
Rodeo fans can enjoy some exciting rides for themselves after the rodeo, at the annual Osceola County Fair, located right next door to the Silver Spurs Rodeo. The fair features exciting amusement rides and games for all ages. Adults and kids will receive a FREE admission to the Osceola County Fair with the purchase of a Silver Spurs Rodeo ticket.

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Airboat Rides in Boggy Creek

Boggy Creek airboat rides are held at Boggy Creek and are for the thrillseeker amonst you.

Once on board its a great thrill ride as you go skidding and sliding forwards, and side ways lifting you out of the water and through the tall swampy grass with the loud noise of the air behind you. You will be given goggles to wear as the boat goes so fast that with the wind in your eyes it would be hard to see anything with out the goggles.

You may see all kinds of fish, birds; snakes even alligators if you are lucky. Mornings are the best time to go to see the local wild life as it is most active at that time of day. The airboat ride takes about 30 mins to 1 hour depending on the guide you get and how busy they are but it is well worth a visit.

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Balloon Rides Over Orlando

A spectacular hot air balloon ride over Orlando is a unique experience, particularly if it is taken at sunrise.

Flights operate 7 days a week, 365 days a year at sunrise, weather permitting. The inflation of the balloon takes around 20 minutes, after which you will be airborne!

The balloon flight time is approx 1 hour and can become your most memorable event during your holiday in Orlando.

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Bowling at Aloma is Best

In a recent poll, Aloma Bowl East was voted the best bowling experience in Orlando. Why? Well that is because it has something for everyone:

Stadium Comfort - This is the largest bowling alley in the area, with 32 lanes, plenty of stadium seating in the stands, a full-service bar and Pizza Hut Express inside.

Gutterball Groovin' - Aloma Bowl East sets its pin-smashing action to plenty of pulsating--read loud--dance hall faves. The computerized scoring and sounds adds to the techno feel.

Easy to Cheat - A real bonus for novice bowlers: Aloma East's lanes feature an automatic gutter bumper. Just push a button and the gutter ball becomes a thing of history.

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Old Money For Sale

A new store has recently opened in Palm Beach featuring a showroom full of money!

The Grand Opening of Arcade Currency Palace occurred last Saturday night. Inside the store are glass cases full of old money dating back to the 1860's. Some of the coins and notes are worth more than $50 million dollars.

The storeowners call it a way to preserve history, but also an investment. You can buy the old money or invest and watch your money grow.

There are only two other showrooms like it in the world. One in Tarpon Springs near Tampa and the other in Turkey.

You can visit the store on the island from Monday - Saturday : 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

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Islands of Adventure Go Jurassic

Islands of Adventure at Universal Orlando Resort is home to some of the most thrilling rides and theme parks in Florida. It houses five themed islands...one of which is Jurassic Park.

Your holiday in Florida wouldnt be complete without a visit to this island. You get to see dinosaurs that have come back to life on this trpoical island. Amongst the key attractions here are :-

Jurassic Park River Adventure – Travel through the backwaters of Jurassic Park and see friendly dinosaurs, until you get face-to-face with a gigantic T-Rex.

Pteranodon Flyers – Children get a Pteranodon’s view of Camp Jurassic as they glide gently through the air. Camp Jurassic – A prehistoric playground of discovery, with caverns, amber mines and dinosaur nets to explore.

Jurassic Park Discovery Center – A hands-on interactive area where guests can scan fossilized skeletons, examine dinosaur eggs and view velociraptors hatching.

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Try Typhoon Lagoon

One of the biggest and most thrilling attractions in Orlando is Typhoon Lagoon. The park, which opened on June 1, 1989, is home to the world's largest outdoor wave pool. The theme of the park is the "Disney legend" of a typhoon that wreaked havoc upon a formerly pristine tropical paradise. Ships, fishing gear, and surfboards are strewn about where the storm flung them. The centerpiece of the park is "Miss Tilly," a shrimp boat impaled upon a mountain named "Mount Mayday" that erupts a 50-foot (15 m) geyser of water every half hour, right before the bells of the watch sound on Miss Tilly. At the base of Mount Mayday there is a 2.75 million gallon wave pool. surrounded by a white sand beach, offering park goers the "tsunami" wave experience, which has you holding your sunglasses and bathing suits every 90 seconds. If this isn't your style, two small "tidal" pools, Whitecap Cove and Blustery Bay should be just your speed.

For a day out with a real difference.....try Typoon Lagoon.

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Pirate's Dinner Adventure Orlando

If you are looking for a swashbuckling, adventurous time while visiting the International Drive area of Orlando, then try the Pirate's Dinner Adventure! This show attraction puts you and your family right in the middle of all of the swashbuckling action. Pirate’s Dinner Adventure is acclaimed as “the world’s most unique interactive dinner show.”

Guests are entertained with an astonishing display of special effects wizardry, aerial artistry, swashbuckling swordplay, dynamic duels and daring-do; a classic story of good vs. evil that offers the perfect blend of action, adventure, comedy and romance; the opportunity to interact in the adventure; and a sumptuous dining experience. The show is perfect for children and adults alike, an adventure not to be missed.

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Snow at Blizzard Beach

In Florida there is a place where you can you see snow everywhere, but the only ice is in a diet coke. The 66-acre Blizzard Beach water adventure park located in Florida's Walt Disney World Resort is strictly tropical, but the combination of water park with the atmosphere and excitement of a major ski resort in the midst of a tropical lagoon is a must-do activity during your holiday in florida.

Legend has it that Blizzard Beach was created by a freak winter storm which dropped snow over the western side of the Walt Disney World property and Florida's first snow-ski resort went into immediate production.

The plan was short-lived. As temperatures soared and the ice and snow rapidly began to melt, dismayed ski-resort operators, ready to close, spotted a playful alligator sliding down the "liquid ice" slopes and realized the melting snow created the tallest, fastest and most exhilarating water-filled ski and toboggan runs in the world. As a result, the ski resort/water adventure park was born. It is located just north of Disney's All-Star Resorts.

As you enter the park, you first sight is of "skiers" sliding down the face of the 90-foot snow-capped mountain, Mt. Gushmore. It is home to the newest waterslide, Downhill Double Dipper, the only side-by-side racing water slides that stand 50 feet high and 200 feet long. You will travel up to 25 mph, twisting and turning before shooting out through a curtain of water. Mt. Gushmore also features slalom courses, toboggan and water sled runs and the awesome, 120-foot-high Summit Plummet – the nation's tallest, fastest free-fall speed slide, visible from almost anywhere in the park. You just have to go!

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Doobie Brothers do CityWalk

Turn on the Night! this New Year's Eve at Universal Orlando Resort. Universal CityWalk's annual New Year's Eve celebration will include non-stop dancing and entertainment throughout the night as the Doobie Brothers headline the evening, rocking in the new year.

By celebrating New Year's Eve 2008 at Universal CityWalk, you can enjoy live music on the main stage as well as inside participating CityWalk venues: Pat O'Brien's, the groove, Bob Marley's, Latin Quarter, CityJazz, Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville and the Red Coconut Club - CityWalk's newest ultra-chic, upscale lounge. An unlimited, gourmet buffet includes food like filet mignon, jumbo shrimp, desserts and is included in the event admission price. At the stroke of midnight a champagne toast is included as fireworks light up the sky.

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Christmas at Magic Kingdom

Visit Magic Kingdom over the festive period and get a full dose of holiday cheer by walking down Main Street, U.S.A., where Disney elves have decked the halls with towering Christmas trees, colorful lights, bows and garlands. Mickey and Minnie Mouse, toy soldiers, and gigantic gingerbread men welcome guests during special daytime runs of "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade." The parade is included in regular park admission on selected dates.

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An Arabian Nights Christmas

Imagine 60 magnificent Arabian Nights horses and a cast of more than 40 holiday characters! Then imagine they are joined by spectacular pyrotechnics, snow, special sets and breathtaking holiday costumes to create a winter wonderland fit for a prince and princess. Appearances by toy soldiers, horse-riding elves, gingerbread men and sugarplum fairies add to the holiday cheer at Arabian Nights in Orlando.

Acrobatic elves, dancing reindeer, sugar plum fairies, a disbelieving sultan, a determined princess with her genie, plus more magic than you can shake your wand at. Put it all together and you have a holiday show with all the romance and excitement only Arabian Nights can bring to life.

The show is choreographed to the holiday music of Andy Williams, Hillary Duff, The Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Brenda Lee, Jimmy Buffett, Little Texas, Lone Star, The Philadelphia Symphony Orchestra and many more. So....why not try out Arabian Nights this Christmas.

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SeaWorld at Christmas

The Seafire Inn at SeaWorld celebrates the Christmas season in Hawaiian style with the Makahiki Christmas Luau. You can enjoy the festive celebrations with authentic Christmas music, costumes and dances including a special rendition of "O Holy Night". The fun continues nightly until Jan. 4th.

SeaWorld also offers an array of festive shows and seasonal additions. Guests can join Shamu for the holidays during "Shamu Christmas ... Miracles." This captivating show helps guests celebrate the holiday season as a time filled with hope and peace and just possibly, miracles. The 22-minute production comes to life daily at Shamu Stadium. Guests may also witness a winter wonder as snow flurries descend from up above, and jewels of water and light adorn the night during the "Christmastide" holiday fountain show.....a seasonal spectacular where water seemingly dances to the beat of Christmas music.

"Mistify," a nighttime finale runs from Dec. 26th - 30th, and takes place on SeaWorld's center lake and features larger-than-life marine creatures on 60-foot mist screens, 100-foot fountains, flames on water and dazzling fireworks.

Families will enjoy strolling through the Waterfront's array of gift shops and restaurants all while listening to the joyful tunes of singers, musical quartets and the "Sizzlin' Pianos" show that ignite the spirit of the season. Through Christmas, stores and restaurants will remain open until 7 p.m. during weekdays and 8 p.m. during weekends. The park will remain open until 10 p.m.

This holiday season, guests are invited to jump aboard The Polar Express Experience for a magical trip to the North Pole. SeaWorld's Wild Arctic transforms into a thrilling expedition to the fabled Santa Town. Recreating classic scenes from the movie in a multi-sensory experience, this unique experience immerses guests with lighting, scent, sound and motion to transport them into the spirit of the season.

At the Waterfront, nightly snow flurries descend upon guests. Carolers make a joyful noise while the little ones share their holiday wishes with Father Christmas. Guests in search of that perfect gift can visit any of the area's assortment of gift shops.

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Harry P. Leu Gardens

The Harry P. Leu Gardens is a 50-acre botanical garden on the shores of Lake Rowena that offers a serene respite from the theme-park razzle-dazzle. Paths lead through giant camphors, moss-draped oaks, palms, cicadas, and camellias -- the latter represented by one of the world's largest collections: 50 species and some 2,000 plants that bloom from October through March.

There are 75 varieties of roses in the site's formal gardens, as well as orchids, azaleas, desert plants, and colorful annuals and perennials. The attraction also has palm, bamboo, and butterfly gardens.

Businessman Harry P. Leu, who donated his 49-acre estate to the city in the 1960s, created the gardens. There are guided tours of his house and the gardens, built in 1888, on the hour and half-hour (at least 3 weeks advance registration required). The interior has Victorian, Chippendale, and Empire furnishings and pieces of art. It takes about 2 hours to see the house and gardens.

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Visit Gatorland in Florida

For nearly 60 years, Gatorland has been creating fond holidays in Florida memories for millions of visitors who have entered through its gaping gator mouth entrance. Families, friends and employees alike have ventured through the glass double doors on their way to a journey through this natural, low-tech adventure.

Located between Orlando and Kissimmee on the South Orange Blossom Trail, Gatorland is one of Central Florida's oldest attractions, and provides a unique and natural alternative to the larger theme parks of today.

Founded by the late Owen Godwin in 1949, and still privately owned by his family today, Gatorland is a 110-acre theme park and wildlife preserve, combining "Old Florida" charm with exciting, new exhibits and entertainment. Known internationally as the "Alligator Capital of the World," Gatorland today provides affordably priced family-fun with thousands of alligators and crocodiles, a breeding marsh with boardwalk and observation tower, one-of-a-kind reptilian shows, aviary, petting zoo, swamp walk, educational programs and much, much more.

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Free Things To Do In Orlando

Orlando is the place to be on holiday. With so much to do, it is sometimes refreshing to find that there are some free activities for you to enjoy. Here is our list of the top 5 free activities to try in Orlando.

1. Disney Downtown Area: Located between Typhoon Lagoon and Epcot Center. There are shops and restaurants dedicated to the legendary characters, and for the serious shopper, head for the largest Disney character store in the world.

2. Cape Canaveral: Space Coast is a 45-minute drive east of Orlando, and the crown jewel of the coast is Kennedy Space Center. The visitor center is excellent - but has an entrance fee. If you're jus tinterested in seeing the shuttle launch, you can check the schedule at http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/ ; on a clear day it can be seen from almost anywhere in the area.

3. Cocoa Beach: You simply have to visit the ocean, and especially Cocoa Beach. Just 1 hour's drive from Orlando, it makes a great day out if you also take in Cape Canaveral.

4. Winter Park Classic Movies: Classic movies are shown on the second Thursday of each month . Sit back and enjoy.

5. Eola Park: Orlando hosts a 43-acre green space around Lake Eola. There is a one-mile walking trail around the lake, concerts in the amphitheatre and boats to rent.

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WinterNational Thanksgiving Parade

Miami's annual WinterNational Thanksgiving celebration takes place on Thursday November 27th and features a parade with more than 70 colourful floats and marching bands. The festival runs through the Thanksgiving weekend and includes a carnival, live music, dancing, food stalls and fairground rides. The parade proceeds along NE 125th Street between 6th and 12th Avenues.

Bands, clowns, floats, marchers, motorcyclists and much more will fuse together for an incredible display of Thanksgiving cheer. Amongst palm trees and crystalline sands, who would expect to ever see Frosty the Snowman marching with polar bears and decorated policemen?

Well. Needless to say, anything is possible in Miami. This winter, book your holiday in Miami with us and catch a little bit of summer sun and winter cheer with the WinterNational Thanksgiving Day Parade.

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Seminole Battle Reenactment Florida

The Seminole Tribe of Florida will present a reenactment of the Second Seminole War at the Big Cypress Shootout at Billie Swamp Safari located between Fort Lauderdale and Naples, on the Big Cypress Reservation just north of I-75 (Alligator Alley) Exit 49.

The battle reenactments honor the Seminole’s struggle and sacrifice to remain in their homeland and will feature authentic weapons, soldier and warrior attire and tactics typical of the Second Seminole War. Your holiday in Florida would not be complete without a trip to this magnificent three day event. It includes music, Seminole food, Seminole and pioneer artisans, tomahawk throws, primitive archery competition, authentic Seminole and soldier camps, venomous snake shows and alligator wrestling.

“Period settlers” from around the country will hew wood, iron and silver crafts and depict trading techniques from the Seminole war era. Musical guests include: Okefenokee Joe, Benjamin Dehart (The Cracker Tenor) and Cowbone.

The reenactment takes place on Friday, February 27 through Sunday, March 1, 2009 at Billie Swamp Safari, located between Fort Lauderdale and Naples, on the Big Cypress Reservation just north of I-75 (Alligator Alley) Exit 49. The battle reenactments will take place at 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

In the 1800s, a total of three wars were fought by the U.S. military against the Seminoles. These campaigns were the longest, costliest, and bloodiest of all the Indian wars. Although many Seminoles were killed or removed to present-day Oklahoma, they were never defeated, and to this day, more than 3,000 Seminoles are known as “The Unconquered” Seminole Tribe of Florida.

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Hiking in Florida

Why not enjoy some backwoods day hikes along any of a number of Florida hiking trails during your holiday in Florida.

Florida's most famous trail would have to be the Florida Trail. This 1,400 mile path spans almost the entire state. When you consider the entire Appalachian Trail is 2,175 miles long, the 1,400-mile Florida Trail is quite a trail, especially for just one state. Three of the most popular hiking trails are listed in our blog.

Fakahatchee Strand State Preserve. Do you want to see a Florida panther in the wilds? Go to the Fakahatchee and you just might. Even if you don't spy one of the big cats, you'll see plenty to make your day worthwhile. Then, you and your friends can share swamp stories over dinner that night.

Gold Head Branch State Park. Check out the deep ravine here--Florida's answer to the Grand Canyon. Not as big, but the same forces are at work. Enjoy any or all of 4 hiking trails. Camp out. Rent a cabin by a lake.

Paynes Prairie State Preserve. Spend the day traversing wild and historical Paynes Prairie. You're likely to see alligators, deer, and other wildlife. Bring your camera.

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Day Out at the Central Florida Zoo

A day out at the enchanting, tropical world of the Central Florida Zoo is a relaxing, entertaining and educational experience for the entire family. Discover a world of animals from around the world within this intimate park nestled in the heart of Florida.

Stroll along shaded, winding boardwalks and paths as you see towering elephants, appreciate the beauty of the hyacinth macaw and listen to the song of the kookaburra. Or dare to meet some of the world’s most venomous reptiles and non-venomous snakes, lizards and frogs in the Herpetarium.

See animals like the Puerto Rican Coqui, endangered Amur leopards, venomous king cobra and playful spider monkeys. The recently transformed Butterfly Sensory Garden incorporates touch, look, listen and smell stations, contrasting human and insect senses.

The Central Florida Zoological Park is dedicated to preserving the beauty and wonder of animals and their habitats. It is committed to sharing knowledge, engaging visitors, and celebrating our natural world.

First established as the Sanford Zoo in 1923 with a collection of donated animals held by the Sanford Fire Department. the zoo was relocated in 1941 to new facilities in downtown Sanford, on the site of the present City Hall. The Zoo of today, opened its doors at its present site on July 4, 1975 and it continues to grow as Seminole County's premier recreational and educational attraction. It is a must-do activity for any holiday in florida.

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Sand Sculpture on Fort Myers Beach

The American Sandsculpting Championship Festival is held annually on Fort Myers Beach. Professional and amateur sand sculptors compete in this contest, which is typically held in early November on the soft sands of Fort Myers Beach. Spectators are the real winners, however, as they can peruse the magnificent creations of sand for four to five days.

The American Sandsculpting Championship Festival is one of Fort Myers Beach’s most popular events every year. Masters of the craft and amateur sand sculptors join to create amazing works of art.

The sculptors’ creations are formed from combining the water and sugar fine white sand of Fort Myers Beach. Many of the world renown Masters return each year to participate because they believe the natural resources of the area are the best in the world for sand sculpting events.

Every year around 20 Masters and amateurs unite on Fort Myers Beach to participate.

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Pier Aquarium at St Petersburg

The Pier Aquarium is a private, non-profit aquarium and marine education science center located in downtown St. Petersburg, Florida at The Pier on the waterfront. It is a really fun way to enjoy a day-out during your Holiday in St Petersburg.

Discover the fun, interactive “Fresh Fish Theatre” featuring live creatures from Tampa Bay and around the world. The action- and drama – never stops with a daily 1-4pm Touch Tank Experience and 3pm fish feeding. Students, teachers and visitors can experience the marine environment up close and personal through the innovative award-winning education programs on land and at sea.

Learn first hand from marine scientists about the fish and their habitats. See a video about Florida Red Tide. Hear the sounds in the sea through the mobile hydrophone installed underneath The Pier.

A hands-on discovery program will help you to understand the oceans, research and technology around the globe …and in Florida's own backyard – Tampa Bay!

Live "performances" in the Fresh Fish Theatre start at 1-4pm every day with Aquarium touch tank activities including "official" fish feeding at 3pm! On the second floor Aquarium, you can watch - and participate - in the action.

Help feed the fish and sharks and play a part as "An Official Fish Feeder!". Fish Feeders receive a certificate for their animal care assistance. Not only do they feed the fish, they learn up-close and personal some of the responsibilities and duties shared by Scientific Staff.

A recent addition to the daily program is the Wednesday "Celebrity Critter of the Week" scheduled from 1-3:30pm Get an up-close look at a featured critter, create a make-and-take craft project and the 3pm story time. Featured critters have included: hermit crabs, sea stars, horseshoe crab, sea snails and sea squirts. Adults are invited to participate.

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Swim with Manatees

Do you fancy meeting a Manatee up close during your holiday in Florida? Nose to nose or at a distance, the chance to meet these fascinating and gentle marine mammals is a must-do excursion.

Manatees favour the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico and cluster in and around Crystal River and Homosassa, especially during the cooler winter months. These relatively warmer waters, with an average temperature of 72°F from the springs, attract these gentle animals. During the coldest times, up to 400 can be found herding in the waters of Citrus County. An aerial survey conducted by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on April 30, 2008 showed that there are 139 manatees enjoying the waters of Citrus County.

The Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge was established to provide critical habitat for the endangered manatees and is now home to more than 25% of the nation’s population.
Snorkeling is an excellent way to observe manatees at close range. These excursions should be made with the assistance of a guide or a tour company which can supply everything you’ll need, including mask, snorkel and wet suit.

Another great way to meet a manatee is to visit the Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park. The park serves as a rehabilitation center and refuge for injured and orphaned endangered West Indian manatees. A unique feature of the park is the famous "fishbowl" where visitors can view the manatees in the spring from an underwater observatory - staying dry the entire time!

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Simpsons Ride at Universal Studios

The Simpsons are visiting Krustyland, the low-budget theme park created by famed TVpersonality and shameless product huckster Krusty the Clown! You are there right alongside Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie as you enter through the carnival-like midway.

Your holiday in Orlando wont be complete without a visit....once you board your vehicle you're in for one surprise after another as you embark on a wild, over-the-top ride through the park. flying, floating, and more or less crashing your way through Krustyland's kiddie attractions, stunt shows, and thrill rides.

The Simpsons Ride is a simulator ride featured at the Universal Studios Florida and Universal Studios Hollywood theme parks. The ride is based on the long running TV cartoon series.....The Simpsons. It was first announced in 2007 and replaced the Back to the Future: The Ride at both locations.

The ride at Universal Studios Florida soft opened on April 23, 2008, and the official ceremonies took place on May 15. The ride at Universal Studios Hollywood opened on May 19, 2008. The Simpsons Ride was collaborated on by the producers of The Simpsons, and uses computer generated 3D animation, which was provided by Blur Studio and Reel FX. 2D animation was provided by Film Roman.

The ride uses state of the art technology, including a new projection system and new hydraulics.The ride itself is six minutes long, but original footage for the ride can be seen in the queue, and there is also a pre-show video. In the ride, patrons are introduced to a cartoon theme park called Krustyland built by Krusty the Clown. Sideshow Bob, however, is loose from prison to get revenge on Krusty and the Simpson family. At least 24 regular characters from the series make an appearance, allv oiced by their original actors. Along with the attraction is a gift shop modeled after the Kwik-E-Mart, which opened in late 2007.

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Best Family Beaches in Florida

With 1,200 miles of shoreline, Florida has some of the best beaches in the world. It's two distinct waterfronts -- the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico – offer sharp diversification and family filled fun. Any holiday in Florida isn't complete without a visit to the beach for you and your family...but which beach? Our Florida experts have compiled this list of the top ten best family beaches in Florida. The beaches are in no particular order....we are just sure you will have a great day out on any of them.

Panama City Beach: Despite its reputation for spring break parties and wild nightlife, Panama City also caters to families. Its 27 miles of shoreline provide plenty of room to swim, while nearby amusement parks entertain kids who've had enough sun.

Clearwater Beach: You can hike and bike the trails, or just enjoy the beach. The kids will get a kick out of meeting Panama the Dolphin at the Clearwater Aquarium, and will beg for treats at Pier 6 or the old-fashioned Farmer's Market.

Fort Walton Beach: It's hard to believe the white sand and emerald waters aren't the main draw, but they have to compete with dolphins leaping just offshore. And, with a science center, marine park and Indian temple to explore, everyone in the family is sure to find something of interest.

Fort Myers: If it rains, Fort Myers has plenty of attractions to keep the whole family amused - botanical gardens, a nature center, a planetarium and even a hands-on imagination museum.

Cocoa Beach: Science and nature live side-by-side here. While ancient cypress trees line an expansive beach, just down the road NASA's Kennedy Space Center has everything a budding astronaut could hope for.

Siesta Key: Kids and adults alike will love to watch the dolphins and collect shells along the beach. If you miss the amazing sand-sculpting contest in May, the Ringling Museum and Jungle Gardens are open year round and hold wonders of other kinds.

Fort Lauderdale Family Beach: Even though this eco-friendly beach earned a coveted Blue Wave Award for its clean shores, you might not have time to enjoy them - not with the Museum of Science and Discovery, Flamingo Gardens and Butterfly World nearby.

Daytona Beach: If your kids love racing, Daytona is a must-see destination for future Jeff Gordons. Not just NASCAR - IROC, AMA and other hotrods can been seen at Daytona International Speedway throughout the year.

Hutchinson Island: This peaceful island offers horseback riding on the beach and a shallow wading lagoon dubbed Bathtub Beach. Kids of all ages will want to feed and pat the stingrays at the nearby Florida Oceanographic Society.

Fernandina Beach: With its scenic white-sand beach untouched by commercialism, families can spend quality time together and gather their own natural souvenirs. Swim, explore the wildlife and camp out under the stars.

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Toddler Fun in Orlando

Disney has so many rides and attractions that even your toddlers can enjoy. So, why not take your little ones on your holidays to Orlando. Here is a sample of where to take them:-

Magic Kingdom: Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin (even if it has a long line get in it--the ride never stops so the line moves quickly), Mickey's Toontown Fair, Dumbo (go to this one as soon as the park opens--it is very popular and late in the afternoon the line is a mile long and moves slowly), Tea Cups (you can make it spin as fast as you want or just let is slowly coast along for the little ones), Adventures of Pooh (ride in cute little honey pots), Peter Pan's Flight (if you little one is really scared of the dark or going up a little high you may not want to do this one but if not it is really cute), Small World, Mickey's Philharmagic (best 3-D ever), Alladin's Flying Carpet and Jungle Cruise. Don't miss Spectromagic Parade and Wishes Fireworks. Do not do Snow Whites Scary Adventure unless you have a true brave one--it is dark and scary.

Animal Kingdom: Do the Safari first thing in the morning to see the most animals, walk through the Trail and the Trek, do not miss the Lion King Show and Flights of Wonder (unless your little one is really scared of birds because they fly right over your heads--most kids love it though). Go down to Camp Minnie Mickey. If they don't mind getting wet Kali River rapids is fun too. Take the train down to Rafiki's Planet Watch to a little petting zoo. Let them dig and play at the Boneyard and the Tricertop Spin is like a Dumbo ride but with flying dinosaurs. Note: even if your little one thinks they like Dinosaurs and want to ride the ride--even if they make height requirement be aware that it IS SCARY!

MGM: Fun character meet and greets with the Power Rangers, Little Mermaid Show is good (has one sort of scary part with Ursula), Playhouse Disney Live On-Stage, Backlot Tour, Beauty and the Beast Show, Lights Motors Action Show (a little loud but the kids seem to love it anyway because it is exciting), and they LOVE to play in the Honey I Shrunk the Kids Playground!!! Fantasmic is a great show but may scare some little ones--would recommend sitting near the back so you could leave if you had to. The Stars and Motor Cars parade is great because all of the characters ride in it and many even walk and come right up to the kids.

Epcot: Living Seas, Turtle Talk with Cruch is FUNNY, Living with the Land, Journey Into Immagination with Figment , Honey I Shrunk the Audience is SCARY in parts so be aware of this and don't let the name fool you, Test Track for the braver ones, go to all of the Kidcot Stops for crafts, just many many things to see (try to catch some of the street performers).

Typhoon Lagoon is the best water park for little ones.

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Golfing in Florida

There are 1,067 golf facilities in Florida. Since many facilities have more than one golf course, it turns out that this equates to an astonishing 1,216 courses. What does all this mean? It means that, if you’re a golfer, Florida is the place. No other state in the U.S.A. comes close to the abundance of fine layouts found here.

But Florida isn’t just about the world-class tour resorts seen on television. It has plenty of friendly municipal courses and historic links.

You may even be admitted to some of Florida’s private clubs if you play with a member or if you ask your club golf pro to call ahead to arrange a game. Or, you may want to take advantage of golf privilege cards, which offer special pricing on many courses and often include access to private clubs.

If you prefer to travel light, or decide to play a few rounds of golf on a whim, you’ll be happy to know that most facilities rent excellent, pro-line quality golf clubs. You may even be able to closely match the set you left at home.

Florida has three levels of courses: tough, legendary PGA Tour calibre tracks; challenging courses; and layouts so easy it’s like shooting fish in a barrel. The vast majority are in the “challenging” category, but you’ll need to select the one that best fits your game.

If you do go for the famous tracks, you should play from the set of tees that will allow you to walk away with fond memories of your round, not frustration from a day of torture. The special features that make celebrated courses famous are still in front of you and awaiting your attempt to defy them. If you play from the middle tees, you have a better chance to see what a Tour player is really up against in the heat of a tournament. You’ll play faster, have a more enjoyable experience and not hold up all the other golfers on the course who are attempting to create their own lifelong reminiscences.

Of course, if you are a scratch player and you want the full experience of some of the best and most difficult courses in the world, Florida’s got them here for you. Go to the back tees and fire away. Just pick the right track, and enjoy your day in the Florida sun.

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Eating Out in Orlando

Our very own Rob likes his food. On a recent trip to Orlando he tried out the following three restaurants and recommends you do the same.

Pizzeria del Dio - This restaurant opened in Feb 2008 greet old at a new downtown Orlando location. It features the same specialty foods and pizza that thousands of customers have grown to crave along with the casual atmosphere and friendly service they've always been known for. Located at 3210 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32803. the restaurant is in the Colonial Landing Plaza (old Herndon Plaza), which includes Bed Bath & Beyond,PetSmart and Sports Authority. It is opposite Orlando's Fashion SquareMall.

Rob says, "I had the lasagna and it was the best I have had in years. I'll come here again on my next trip over Great food, lots of parking, prompt service".

Timpano Italian Chophouse - Reminiscent of the classic restaurants and clubs of Chicago and New York, Timpano Italian Chophouse revives the big city dining experience with big flavor steaks, chops and pasta matched by full-bodied red wines and sophisticated setting while intimate torch songs and ballads echo through the lounge and dining room. Upscale beef and snazzy pasta and fish: osso buco, fusilli with wild mushrooms and Gorgonzola, Tuscan seafood stew. Pay a la carte for soups, salads and sides like mashed potatoes or spinach. The seared sirloin is a fine choice, and spring a buck for the finish: al forno (garlic and Parmesan) or al balsamico (honey and vinegar). For a tasty vegetable ration, try the minestrone. Sop up the garlic-tomato broth(with the grilled grouper) with Timpano's excellent foccacia, one of the housebreads.

Rob says, "The 8oz filet was very good. The grilled vegetables were good, especially the tomatoes and peppers. The hot rolls were excellent. Complimentary valet parking was nice. The service was good, lots of trips for water, and friendly."

Samba Room - This restaurant offers all the jet-set glamour and romance of the Rio Havana holiday without the State Department hassles. Palm trees, sheer curtains, amber lighting, cool cocktails and intoxicating Latin rhythms provide a recipe for escape. The Latin cuisine includes dishes like Chilean seabass, redsnapper, steaks, mashed poatotes, salads and more. The dinner menu ranges from appetizers such as plantain chips or mango barbecued ribs to Cuban sandwiches to "large plates" of paella or sugar cane beef tenderloin with chipotle mashed potatoes. Order the grilled mussels to start, which you dip in coconut milk laced with sour orange. Don't let the "wine-habanero"syrup scare you away from the cachaca chicken, a delicious quarter of smoked chicken atop a colorful, fruity coconut rice.

Although Cuban bread is somewhat bland, the shredded beef sandwich packs plenty of flavour. Finish with the divine coconut creme brulee.

Rob says, "The food is very good with alot of flavor. Service was excellent. It isn't a place for intimate dining because there is alot going on but the food is reasonably priced for the quality."

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50 Fun Things To Do On I-Drive

Do you need some ideas? Do you need to take in a list of things to do when planning your trip to Orlando? Would you be able to impress your fellow travellers with a list of exciting, fun-filled things to do whilst on holiday? Well...look no further. Take a look at our list of 50 (yes...fifty) fun things to do on I-Drive.

• Have your picture taken in front of a 1934 replica Ford Woody at Ron Jon's Surf Park at Festival Bay Mall.


• Slide through a pool of Dolphins or just kick back on the 80,000 square foot beach at Aquatica Water Park.


• Take a ride from the air in an Air Florida Helicopter Charters and see world famous attractions.


• Learn to Belly Dance or just fill your belly with authentic Greek food at Taverna Opa.


• Play golf on the championship course at Shingle Creek.


• Experience an explosion of dynamic effects on the all new BLACK HOLE; The Next Generation at Wet 'n Wild.


• Visit six of the world's greatest theme parks SeaWorld, Discovery Cove, Wet 'n Wild, Aquatica SeaWorld's Waterpark, Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure!


• Satisfy your inner pirate at the giant galleon at Pirate's Dinner Adventure.


• Eat a burger and fries in the world's largest McDonald's Play Place!


• Unwind and relax at Body & Sol Spa at Rosen Centre.


• Sing pop classics at Howl at the Moon.


• Enjoy dinner while listing to the Great Blues of yesterday and today at B B Kings.


• Take the kids for some fun at Johnny Rockets at Pointe Orlando.
  Watch live European sports via satellite at a British pub, Cricketers Arms Pub, at Festival Bay Mall.


• Dance to a live band at the Rosen Plaza Hotel.


• Be serenaded by singing waiters at Bergamo's Italian Restaurant at Festival Bay Mall.


• Buy art off the walls and meet the artist at Café TuTu Tango.


• Escape the ordinary at Ripley's Believe it or Not with its Orlando Odditorium filled with the unusual.


• Let your imagination run wild at WonderWorks, Orlando's only upside-down building!


• Land the space shuttle. Design a roller coaster. Fly a fighter jet.


• Dine at the world's largest Hard Rock Cafe at Universal CityWalk.


• Enjoy some pizza while the kids bounce out their energy at Monkey Joe's.


• Go for a swim or workout at the Central Florida YMCA Aquatic Center.


• Check out the 32-lane bowling alley right in the heart of the I-Drive area, the World Bowling Center. The wacky decor features murals of astronauts bowling, among other whimsical touches.


• Enjoy nonstop recreation at Vans Skate Park at Festival Bay Mall, Orlando's premier skateboard park.


• Take a spin on Magical Midway's extreme go-cart track with corkscrew turns and daring elevations.


• Sip some wine at The Grape Wine Bar & Bistro at Pointe Orlando.


• Golf under a waterfall at Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf.


• Skydive in a wind tunnel at Sky Venture Orlando Indoor Skydiving.


• Swim with dolphins in the morning at Discovery Cove and encounter JAWS in the afternoon at Universal Orlando.


• Get married at the Royal Wedding Chapel!


• Putt a hole-in-one at Hawaiian Rumble Adventure Golf, Congo River Golf, Tiki Island Golf or Gator Golf.


• Solve a murder mystery at Sleuths Mystery Dinner Theater.


• Be sure to wear white and watch yourself shine at Putting Edge Glow-In-The-Dark Mini Golf at Festival Bay Mall.


• For a fun way to get around International Drive, leave the driving to someone else and take the I-Ride Trolley!


• Shop for bargains at designer outlets ( See our shopping in Orlando blog post)


• Sleep in a castle at Doubletree Castle Hotel.


• Be a guest duckmaster at The Peabody Orlando.


• Have a carhop deliver to your car at Sonic, America's Drive In!


• Be a marine life trainer at SeaWorld Orlando.


• See how I-Drive shines at night!


• Unwind in an Irish owned & operated pub, The Lucky Leprechaun.


• Shop till you drop at over 485 designer, brand name and outlet stores!


• Catch a movie at Regal Pointe Orlando 20+ IMAX.


• Taste international flare food on I-Drive with over 150 restaurants.


• Have an elegant dinner in the highly acclaimed Capital Grille at Pointe Orlando.


• Dine on authentic Italian fare at Maggiano's Little Italy at Pointe Orlando.


• Check out the nation's second largest convention center, Orange County Convention Center.

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Shopping in Orlando

Orlando is home to some of the finest shopping venues in Florida. Here is a selection of our top picks:-

1. The Mall at Millenia, 2. The Florida Mall, 3. Festival Bay Mall on I-Drive, 4. Orlando Premium Outlets, 5. Pointe Orlando on I-Drive, 6. Orlando Fashion Square Mall.

There are two major malls close to the tourist areas. The Mall at Millenia is an upmarket mall, with Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdales, Cartier, and restaurants such as PF Changs and the Cheesecake Factory. Mall at Millenia is located at the Conroy Road exit of I-4. Florida Mall is one of the largest malls in Florida, anchored by Macys, Dillards, JC Penney, Lord & Taylor, with a large selection of specialty stores.

Florida Mall is a vast complex and is located at the intersection of Sand Lake Road and the Orange Blossom Trail, halfway between the Orlando International Airport and International Drive.

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Harry Potter in Orlando

Orlando is getting its very own Harry Potter Theme Park. Announced last May, and expected to open in late 2009, Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. and Universal Orlando Resort are partnering to create the world’s first fully immersive Harry Potter themed environment based on the bestselling books by J.K. Rowling and blockbuster feature films from Warner Bros. Desribed as a “theme park within a theme park” and titled “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter,” the new environment will become part of the experience within Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme park at the Universal Orlando Resort.

The attractions are to include a giant recreation of Rowling’s fictional Hogwarts Castle, a permanently snow-covered Hogsmeade village, the Forbidden Forest and a Hogwarts Express that will steam away from Platform 9 and 3/4.

The village, with steep-roofed slate-and-stone buildings will boast “experiential shops and restaurants” selling cauldrons and broomsticks, wands, magic potions and Harry Potter-themed meals.
Across the park, through “immersive rides and interactive attractions”, fans will be confronted with characters and scenes from Rowling’s epic story.

Computerised special effects will display figures looking like real characters but which will disappear in a flash.

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