Tips for buying souvenirs at Disney without going broke

A Disney World vacation can easily break the bank if you are not careful what you are spending and keeping a close eye on your finances. Budgeting your spending limits is one of the best ways to ensure you do not go broke whilst visiting Disney.

With so many wonderful things to spend your money on, it can be hard to resist not blowing all your money in the first few days. With amazing restaurants and snack bars, photo opportunities and souvenirs to spend your money on, before you know it can be all gone.

Disney souvenirs are something every guest must buy whilst enjoying their trip to Disney. They are special memorabilia’s that will be treasured for years to come. These souvenirs can also be very costly, but if you know a few tips on how and what to buy, without going broke you can have the best of both worlds.

 In all the main Disney Parks there are souvenir shops everywhere you turn. Every time you come out of a ride you are thrown into another souvenir shop, where everything is calling to you to buy it and to buy it now! From t-shirts to mugs to key chains, you will have never seen so many souvenirs in your life or even knew that they existed.

If you can resist these urges then one of the best things you can do to save money is to not buy your souvenirs at the park and purchase them from local shops near your hotel. All the local shops will have Disney souvenirs in stock that are just as good as the ones found in the park but at a margin of the price.

If you simply must buy your souvenirs while at Disney, then why not try taking at look at the sale section in the souvenir shops. A lot of the shops have clearance items that are being sold of far cheaper. This way you can still buy your favorite Disney items whilst on site but without paying top dollar. There are also a lot of budget souvenirs available such as the pressed pennies or postcards, which still make great gifts and memorabilia.

Setting a daily spending limit for you and your children before you embark to Disney in the morning is also another great way to make sure you don’t over spend. This way the kids and you won’t go mad and start buying every souvenir you see.

Going DIY and bringing your own autograph books from home is also another great way to save money, use them for your kids to collect their character signatures, without shelling out on overpriced books from the Disney Park.

December 2nd, 2011  in Disney World Vacation No Comments »

Florida Hotels to Check In To

Everybody yearns for a vacation. A family vacation is the only time of year where you can experience a getaway from your life and your troubles. You can take your family away on a trip that none of you will ever forget. A perfect destination for your next family vacation is Florida. Florida, also known as the “Sunshine State,” is home to plenty of amazing attractions and activities. Not only can you glide through Everglades National Park on a canoe and witness panthers and alligators, you can also visit Disney World, SeaWorld, Universal Studios and a number of other fun filled parks. There are also plenty of Kissimmee vacation packages that you can find to make your trip really pop.

If you want to enjoy all of the amenities of home while you are away from home, then you need to find the perfect Florida hotel to stay in. Booking a room at a luxury hotel will allow you to feel right at home and have a comfy and glorious stay, you should find a hotel that is perfect for you.

There are plenty of amazing hotels in Florida that you should definitely check out. One of these is Best Western inside Disney World. This high class hotel will allow you to have everything that Florida has to offer right at your fingertips. This beautiful and high class hotel offers comfortable rooms featuring everything you need to create a home away from home including comfy beds, ‘fridges and TV’s with cable and movies.. Their spacious pool is the perfect place for your kids to take a dip or for you to take your morning exercise swim.

If you want to take a walk on the wild side, then pay a visit to Disney’s Kingdom Lodge Resort. This amazing resort is the perfect location for animal lovers and is located on a spacious private animal reserve. It is home to over 200 different kinds of species of mammals and birds who live on the sprawling 33 acre park. You will love being surrounded by such beauty.

Another luxury resort worth that is sure to give you your money’s worth is Radisson Worldgate. This resort has recently underwent a $23 million facelift and has added brand new amenities to each of their beautiful roomsrooms. All of the suites have comfy beds with cozy linens, flat screen televisions, and employ a accommodating and friendly staff. The best part of all about this hotel is located just a couple blocks away from Disney World, which will allow you to enjoy all of the fun!

You will love being able to have all of the amenities of home right at your fingertips while you are away from home. There are also a lot of Kissimmee vacation packages that will help you to save money while you are staying at one of the best hotels Florida has to offer. You will love being able to have everything you need right there.

September 23rd, 2011  in Disney World Vacation No Comments »

How to Relax While On Your Vacation In Florida

Everybody loves going on vacation. It is your one time a year that you have the ability to escape all of the stress of your life and enjoy some much needed fun and enjoyment. Whether you are going on a trip with your best buddies or are part of a family with young kids going on your very first family get-away together, planning your vacation can get a bit stressful. Between booking the hotel, buying the plane tickets, organizing what sites to visit and packing your tickets, your vacation can cause you some stress. The best way to still enjoy your vacation is to dedicate some time to unwind and relax. Florida is one of the best places to enjoy a much needed spa day because they offer some of the best spas and resorts in the country. If you want to truly experience an amazing vacation, visit a spa in Florida and also book a relaxing and luxurious room at an Orlando group hotel.

One of the best spas to visit in Florida is The Waldorf Astoria Spa by Guerlain. This amazingly spacious  24,000 square foot spa offers 21 private treatment rooms for the utmost in service. Their dedicated staff will offer you attentive services featuring specializes body therapy, massages, facials, manicures, pedicures and waxing treatments. Be sure to treat yourself to an invigorating full body massage, aromatherapy wraps, or their full line of exclusive products that will make you look and feel your best

Another amazing spa to visit is the Relache Spa at Gaylord Palms Resort. This fabulous spa offers an upscale environment that features facials, body treatments, skin care and massages in 25 European-style ultra-exclusive suites. They also have a second-to-none fitness facility and a full service salon. Relache Spa at Gaylord Palms Resort and enjoy some much needed me time!

The Lighthouse Resort and Day Spa holds your golden ticket to a day of amazing pampering. This exceptional 4,600 square foot European style spa will leave you feeling like an entirely new person. Pick from their extensive list of services including deep and penetrating massages to relieve sore muscles or receive a facial, waxing or skin care. You can also enjoy a manicure or unwind in their steam rooms.

If you want to receive the best in pampering services, stop in to Spa at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort. This magnificent spa is a great place to go when you need a day of total rest and relaxation. You will be able to enjoy massages, facials, and nail and skin care.

You will love enjoying a day of some much needed TLC. The spas in Florida offer amazing treatments and services to allow your stress to melt off of you like butter. You will love being able to spend time on vacation and get away from all of the troubles of life. Also be sure to book a room at the Terra Verde Resort for some great service.

August 30th, 2011  in Disney World Vacation No Comments »

Florida Nightlife Spots

Many people want to experience a vacation that will create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re going on a trip with a bunch of your closest friends or are a newly-wed couple seeking a romantic get-away, Florida has your ticket to the perfect vacation destination. This sunny, gorgeous state is packed full of exciting theme parks, miles and miles of pristine beach and crystal clear water, and plenty of dining and shopping opportunities. If you book a Best Western inside Disney World, you’ll be able to enjoy all of the comforts of home.

The fun in Florida doesn’t stop when the sun goes down! Discover all of the hot spots such in Florida. The bustling tourist town of Orlando offers a variety of enjoyable nightlife entertainment such as clubs, bars and restaurants. Enjoy great food, music and live entertainment in Florida.

One of the most authentic places to dine in Orlando is the at Cuba Libre Restaurant and Orlando Rum Bar. This accommodating restaurant offers a large menu selection of yummy Cuban cuisine that will tempt your taste-buds. Cuba Libre also features daily happy hour specials and live entertainment during the week.

If you are seeking something out of the ordinary, look no further than Tabu Night Club. The upscale and classy night club hosts some of the world’s hottest entertainers including DJ’s, and hip hop artists. Tabu also has an amazing sound system and three video walls produced by industry legends Heavier than Gravity to get you dancing the night away. It can’t get much better than that!

If you want to add a little Spanish flavor to your Florida Trip, book a table at Bongo’s Cuban Café. This authentic Cuban restaurant has a stunning environment with Havana inspired wall murals and a tropical décor. The restaurant hosts Latin dance music like salsa, rumba, and cha cha throughout the week, so if you’re ready to get your groove on, visit this café!

At a little island flare to your vacation with the elegant Bahama Breeze. This Caribbean themed bar also offers an incredible selection of live entertainment acts such as bands, DJ’s, and reggae music. Their savory food is guaranteed to melt your mouth dance with joy!

If you want to spend an intimate evening out with your honey, then pay a visit to the Habitat Lounge. They’re romantic environment is the perfect place to enjoy a candlelit dinner with your spouse. The cozy restaurant also features soft and romantic piano music and a lovely view of Adam Mark’s outdoor pool. You’ll fall in love all over again.

Florida is your ideal destination for the perfect get away. During the day, enjoy features such as Disney World, Universal Studios and Sea World vacation packages Orlando. Once the sun sets, enjoy a great time at Florida’s many bars and nightclubs. You’ll fall in love with the nightlife here and never want to return home. It’ll be a great time for you and you will love your vacation.

August 9th, 2011  in Disney World Vacation No Comments »

Dinner and Show in Orlando Florida

Although most families go to Orlando Florida to visit to the theme parks and water parks it is nice to experience things other than what is included in your Disney World vacation package. There are many places that you can go to enjoy dinner and a show in Orlando. This even includes places where you can take the kids, relax, eat and still have a great time. The best thing is they usually last around two hours and a major plus is you don’t have to stand in line in the blistering heat of summer.

One such place for swashbuckling fun is the Pirates Dinner Adventure. The place is centered on pirates as the name suggests. The adventure is held on an 18th century Spanish galleon replica. The ship sits on over 300,000 gallons of water inside of the restaurant. There is even a villainous pirate who leads the adventure show. This will be a treat for adults and children as the adventure unfolds. Every diner sits in one of the six separate ships that surround the Spanish galleon. The food has names such as pillagers pork, treasures chicken and Princess Anita’s royal desserts. You can also ask your travel agent for any other pirate adventures in Orlando when you purchase your Disney World vacation package.

Hotel packages in Disney World include a lot of fun things but nothing compares to the adventure of dining and a show at the Arabian Nights Dinner Attraction in the Palace of Horses. This show has entertainment to please even the smallest critic. The preshow includes a belly dancer that invites you to go up on stage and show off your belly dancing skills for everyone. The main show has 22 acts and is said to be amazing. There is everything from leaping acrobats to dancing on horseback to entertain one and all. Choose from your choice of steak, chicken, pork, a vegetable and dessert.

If you are looking for a few hours as a couple you may want to get a sitter and head over to the Sleuths Mystery Dinner Show. It has three theaters and you can choose which mystery you want to be a part of. It is a thrilling experience to sit and try to figure out “who done it” as the night wears on. You may even be pulled into the show to be a part of it. While you are sleuthing you can dine on your choice of prime rib, lasagna, Cornish game hen and a mystery dessert.

Another great place for the family to visit for a dinner and show is the Medieval Time Dinner and Tournament. You will be looked down upon by the King and Queen as you dine. You will also look on as six knights that part in a battle of champions. Food includes such medieval treats as spare ribs, chicken, potatoes and soup.

These are just a few places to go for dinner and a show when you are using your hotel package in Disney World. There are many more off the beaten path you just have to search them out.

June 23rd, 2011  in Disney World Vacation No Comments »

Orlando Florida: Interesting Facts

Everyone always wants to stay in Orlando Florida. It is one of the vacation capitals of the world. People even travel from other countries to visit Disney World, Sea World, the Epcot center and the numerous water parks just to name a few. There are also many Disney World hotel packages to choose from when planning a vacation to Orlando. But there is more to Orlando than amusement parks and Disney World. The history and some interesting facts are outlined here for the tourists or even Florida residents who curious as to the origins of Orlando.

Orlando didn’t start out as Orlando. In 1838 when the U.S. army built the garrison Fort Gatlin in hopes of preventing Indian attacks it had another name entirely. Arron Jennings a cattle farmer and his brother set up shop there in the 1840’s and the name of the town became Jernigan until 1856 when it was changed to the Orlando that we know today.

There are many different stories as to how Jernigan ended up being Orlando. In one story the name came from a man who was a solider, another claims it was a wealthy plantation owner. No one will ever know for sure where the name came from but these are the stories that circulate in Orlando and elsewhere.

Orlando became a city in in 1885 when its orange industry was booming putting it firmly on the map. When in 1956 Walt Disney announced his plans to build a theme park there because of the location and the fact that it was relatively safe from hurricanes the city was thrilled. Once Walt Disney World was built Orlando was on its way to being one of the most popular tourist cities in the world. Today Walt Disney World and its resorts and water parks are the first thing to pop into any one’s mind when Orlando Florida is mentioned. The city in conjunction with Disney offers many Disney World packages for residents and tourist alike.

Orlando is full of other exciting things to do such as Sea World and the Universal Orlando Resort. They are of course nowhere near as big as Walt Disney world with its Disney World packages but they are still popular with tourist and residents alike.

Cypress Gardens which was built in 1936 was Orlando’s first theme park. It is known for its botanical gardens and water skiing shows and is a popular attraction all on its own.

Orlando has much potential to grow even more than it already has since its 1838 start. Business is booming and the theme parks, water parks and many, many other attractions are a big part of that. Disney World alone has over a dozen hotels to stay at and offers many Disney World hotel packages local residents and tourist alike. If you get bored when visiting Orlando Florida there is no way you will be able to stay that way for long. From amusement parks to dancing the night away downtown there is always something to do in Orlando.

June 23rd, 2011  in Disney World Vacation No Comments »

5 Kissimmee Hotels Where Pets Are Allowed

Families no longer have to leave behind their pets when on vacation. Thanks to pet-friendly hotels, your pet can now tag along without worry. You should know that these hotels are quite plenty around the area. As a starting place, consider the following top picks of Kissimmee hotels that allow guests to bring their pets.

Orlando Sun Resort

This is not exactly the Radisson Worldgate Orlando but it does provide comfortable accommodations for all its guests. The two outdoor pools are heated and are surrounded by tropical landscaping and a few courtyards. Tennis courts are available as well. Amenities include a free shuttle service to Disney World and newly-renovated rooms with upgraded feather pillows and linen. As for pets, guests can bring up to two who are less than 40 pounds for an additional fee of $10 for each pet per night.

The Palms Hotel and Villas

If you prefer staying in a suite, you will find the Palms Villas a treat. It is located near some of the region’s popular tourist attractions such as the Disney World Resort, Epcot, Downtown Disney and the Old Town. Their amenities are not quite like your average Kissimmee hotels. All suites have reclining chairs, two TV sets, ceiling fans and full kitchens with all appliances for cooking your own food. The management allow up to two dogs who are less than 60 pounds to stay for $100 per stay.

Radisson Resort World Gate

This hotel is part of the Disney World Good Neighbor Club and is a close cousin of the Radisson Worldgate Orlando. As such, you can expect only the best when it comes to luxury and hospitality. It is just a few minutes away from Disney World, Universal Studios, Sea World and other major attractions. A free shuttle service is available for other popular destinations as well. This pet-friendly hotel allows pets of up to 50 pounds for a $75 fee. The good news is that there is no limit on the number of pets per room and you pay a one-time fee.

Seralago Hotel and Suites

Staying at this hotel means being right where it all happens. The Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom and Epcot are all within reach. This is also part of the Disney World Good Neighbor Club along with the Radisson Worldgate Orlando. Guests are treated with free shuttle services, swimming pools, whirlpool spas and a complimentary breakfast buffet. Small dogs of up to 40 pounds are allowed to stay at deluxe standard guests rooms with a limit of two pets per room. A non-refundable charge of $40 is made for cleaning services.

Country Inn and Suites

This resort follows a Caribbean style to provide a tropical experience like no other. There are even rooms with a pirate theme which kids will surely love. Unlike most Kissimmee hotels, the Country Inn has its own 18-hole miniature golf course. Pets less than 25 pounds are welcome for $10 per night. The management requires that they should not be left unattended though.

4 Interesting Facts about the Holiday Inn Lake Buena Vista

There are several hotels located right inside Walt Disney World and one of them is the Holiday Inn Lake Buena Vista. It offers some of the best accommodations in town which makes your vacation that more enjoyable. There are plenty of amenities to enjoy here as well. Learn more about this hotel with these four interesting facts.

New Renovations

Like most Disney hotels, the Holiday Inn boasts of exquisite designs in all of its rooms as well as the building itself. It is interesting to note that the hotel has actually a major renovation just recently. The result is a top to bottom makeover to give it a fresh and new look. All 323 rooms of the hotel have been upgraded to keep up with modern times and provide guests with utmost levels of comfort and convenience. All in all, you can expect some of the best rooms and amenities which would make your vacation that much more memorable.

Facilities for Business

The Holiday Inn Lake Buena Vista is equipped with everything to provide all the fun you need for your vacation. On the other hand, it does not turn a blind eye to the more serious and pressing concerns of business people. For this reason, the hotel comes with ten different meeting rooms enough to accommodate anywhere between 18 and 600 people. Audio and visual equipment are available for all kinds of presentations as well. These make it the best place for a business meeting or a convention. It may very well be your office while you are away.

Convenient Location

Like other Disney hotels, the Holiday Inn sits in some of the best and prime locations in Orlando. In fact, it is the closest hotel to Disney World with Downtown Disney just a few minutes of walking away. The area is filled with a wide variety of restaurants to satisfy just about any craving you may have. Shopping is no problem here with plenty of stores to visit. Some of these include the Mall of Millennia and the Premium Outlet Shopping Center. A sampling of the nightlife and entertainment is yours for the taking as well.

Amenities

Disney hotels are widely known for their generous offerings when it comes to amenities and the Holiday Inn is no exception. The rooms are a slice of luxury with 32-inch HD TVs and free internet access. Bathroom essentials are even provided by Bath and Body Works in every room. On the outside, the hotel has a heated pool with giant rock formations complete with cascading waterfalls and slides. Guests can expect a coffee maker and bath tub in their rooms plus access to a fitness center. In other words, anything that can make your vacation a more pleasurable experience is included here.

All these tidbits are just tiny details that form a bigger picture. The only way to experience this is to go through it your self. Do not forget to ask your travel agent on how to book the Holiday Inn Lake Buena Vista for your next vacation.

Universal Studios and Disney World: Dream Team of Vacations

Everyone who has seen a movie, experienced a theme park, or played a video game knows about the wonders that are Disney and Universal. Disney is where the magic happens, and Universal is where blockbusters are relived. Together they create an experience to profound that the average human being crumbles at the very thought of facing these juggernauts together—but they also drool at the opportunity to face down those juggernauts and have the vacation of a lifetime. Walt Disney World, also known simply as, Disney World, is the Magic Kingdom, king of all theme parks, god of all vacation resorts, and the only place on earth where you can meet your longtime friends in the ‘flesh’ (polyester fibers woven together into large comical costumes).

If the idea of visiting Disney World doesn’t set your blood racing, maybe the thought of entering the gates of Universal Studios will inspires chills in your soul. What about taking the ultimate plunge and experiencing both Walt Disney World and Universal Studios together on the same vacation—GASP! Yes, it can happen! Here’s how!

Disney World Adventures

With tons of different Disney World vacations packages available, you’re sure to find one that fits your families vacation desires, budget, and time frame. If you can’t get to the massive theme park before the peak season is over, you can still jump in the action with off-season packages that cost a bit less, and offer you your choice of accommodations simply because a lot of the rooms that are full during the peak season are now waiting for your family to occupy them. With 23 different hotel resorts on the Disney World property, there is at least one themed hotel that will fit your fancy and provide you with luxury, amenities, experiences, and memories your family will be talking about forever. Disney World vacations aren’t just about visiting the Disney World park, they are also about visiting the water parks (Typhoon Lagoon, Blizzard Beach), and enjoying the wonders of the Wild Animal Kingdom. Who wants to leave the US for a safari when you can take a real safari right outside of Orlando Florida?

Universal Studios Thrills

Universal Studios Vacation Packages are all about offering guests the thrill of a lifetime. Not only does the vacation package offer you access to one of the most exciting theme parks in the world, but you can also book airfare, accommodations, entertainment, tours, dining, and whatever else you could possibly wish to experience with your family. Universal Studios vacation packages are affordable for the family at as little as $200 USD per night. Universal Studios also features the Universal CityWalk which has world class shopping, dining, nightlife, entertainment, and people from all ‘walks’ of life. You might even run into a few well known faces—make sure to bring your autograph book with you!

When you combine these two vacation destinations together in one vacation package, you’re in for a mind blowing experience that will leave you and your family addicted to fun.

January 13th, 2011  in Disney World Vacation No Comments »

Magic Kingdom Adventures: Disney World Vacations

Walt Disney was the architect of many young persons’ imagination. Since the very first time human beings looked upon Steamboat Willie, a whole world of imaginative possibilities came to life in the hearts and minds of people all over the globe. Since then, decades of cartoons, feature movies, games, books, and theme parks have sprung from the fertile minds of Disney…and you can have a piece of the magic and mystery that makes Disney World the Happiest Place on Earth.

Disney World is located in Orlando Florida where Universal Studios and other local attractions battle for supremacy from the all powerful and never waning Disney World. Kids of all ages (including age 60+), have passed through the gate and met their imaginary friends face to face, heart to heart and giant white glove to small human hand. Disney World vacations are some of the most planned and purchased of annual vacations, and Disney World Hotels are some of the most visited in the world. When you plan your vacation to Disney World, you want to research and find the perfect Disney World package for your family.

Because it’s the Happiest Place on Earth, Disney World is visited by millions of people a year—all of them wishing and hoping to be able to stay and play at Disney World hotels which are a hop, skip, and a jump from the Magic Kingdom. No matter your age, you will be thrilled to have accommodations in a hotel that not only provides luxury and incredible amenities to its guests, but also provides them with great views of the park, and easy access to the front gates.

For as little as $280 USD per night, you can stay at one of the Disney World hotels and experience what it means to live the magic. All of the hotels offer Disney World Packages which include the accommodations, dining, park access, transportation, airfare, and all the magic you can handle.

Disney World is the world’s most visit and loved recreation resorts. That means that everyone on the planet (except those too young to know), know that Disney World is the only place to go if you want to have adventure, luxury, fun, experiences, and magical memories to last you a lifetime. Disney World is more than just a park filled with thrilling rides; it also offers 3 additional theme parks, 2 water parks, 2 healthy spas, a fitness center, and some of the world’s best entertainment and world class dining. Oh…did we forget to mention the 23 themed hotels on site? And if you want your family to have the best vacation ever, you should consider taking the entire family to Orlando and having the time of your lives at Disney World.

With what’s included in the Disney World packages (not to mention the affordability), you can stay, play, and smile your days and nights away on the most amazing family vacation you’ve ever had. The magic of the Magic Kingdom isn’t just in the parks; it’s also in the Disney World hotels, the people, the restaurants, the entertainments, and the adventures.

January 8th, 2011  in Disney World Vacation No Comments »