A Flashback 4th of July in Celebration Florida

The Disney designed town of Celebration, FL traditionally hosts a themed Fourth of July party in the Celebration Town Center, and this year is no exception. On Sunday, July 4 from 5:30 – 11:00 p.m., Celebration will bring back the Happy Days of the 1950s. The All-American Sock Hop will include live musical entertainment, costume contests, and a 50’s themed fireworks show will begin at 9:30 p.m.

Beginning at 6:00 p.m., Celebration Town Center’s “A Flashback 4th of July” will feature concerts by some of the world’s most famous tribute artists including tributes to Ritchie Valens, Roy Orbison, and the legends of Motown. There will also be a 50’s costume /celebrity look-alike contest at 7:00 p.m. For those who might be a little too young to remember the Nifty 50s, Celebration Town Center’s KidZone will feature an assortment of inflatable games for kids and teens that will include a jousting area, a rock climbing wall, face painting and more.

Additional music will be offered by The Dixieland Jazz Band. This unique group, made up of former members of the “Rosie O’Grady’s Good Time Band” offers patriotic music for the whole family. Parking and admission are free, and a complimentary park and ride shuttle will be available. For more information, visit the event website.

Turtles Moved to SeaWorld Orlando to Make Room for Oiled Animals

On Friday, June 25, SeaWorld Orlando received nine endangered Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles that had been impacted by the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

The turtles had been receiving care at the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies (IMMS) in Gulfport, Miss. for injuries related to fishing lines and hooks. The animals came to SeaWorld Orlando so the IMMS can make room for other animals in need of treatment due to the oil spill. The turtles at SeaWorld are in stable condition and the goal is to return them back into the wild.

SeaWorld is one of the few organizations with the expertise to tend to the special needs of Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles. They are solitary animals and do not interact with each other and other turtle species. This made their trek to SeaWorld imperative as park aquarists have set up a triage area to accommodate the new patients.

The flight to Orlando was made possible by the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission.

SeaWorld is a global leader in the rescue and rehabilitation of sea turtles. The park’s Animal Rescue & Rehabilitation Team in on call 365 days a year, 24 hours a day.

Washington Redskins Pro Bowl Cornerback DeAngelo Hall at SeaWorld Orlando

While spending the day at SeaWorld Orlando with family and friends, Washington Redskins Pro Bowl Cornerback DeAngelo Hall met his biggest fan -- Clyde, a California sea lion. Hall got up-close to amazing animals, and enjoyed thrilling rides and world-class shows. To discover more, visit SeaWorld Orlando

Fireworks at the Fountain at Lake Eola

The water is flowing once again through the Lake Eola Fountain just in time for the annual Fireworks at the Fountain on Sunday, July 4, 2010 from 4:00 – 10:00 p.m. at Lake Eola Park in Downtown Orlando. Visitors can bring their lawn chairs and blankets to save a spot around the lake to enjoy the fireworks display after sundown.

In the hours leading up to the fireworks display, there will be live entertainment, vendor booths, food sales, and an area just for kids with inflatables. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida will be conducting free health screenings and back massages at the health mobile display unit, and Cartoon Network and Bright House Networks will be presenting the Ben 10: Ultimate Alien Invasion. Children will be able to meet and take photos with the Ben 10 characters and have the opportunity to win prizes and giveaways.

The iconic Lake Eola Fountain was disabled by a lightning strike in August 2009, and repairs are currently underway. Water began flowing through the fountain this spring, and within the year the Lake Eola Fountain is expected to have a new lighting system installed. For more details about the July 4 event and directions, visit the City of Orlando website.

Name Your Own Price at the Wingate by Wyndham Orlando Airport

In todays tough economy, hotels are experiencing that today’s travelers, whether it business or leisure, are becoming more and more savvy with technology and how to find a great hotel deal. In today’s world, we hear a lot of talk about Opaque Pricing and Opaque Travel Websites, but what is it really? It is in short a non-transparent value offer.

A non-transparent value offer, or pricing opacity, basically means that you can’t see the brand of the product type you are buying. It allows hotels to offer deep discounts, varying with great range from their public prices, without affecting their price positioning and rate integrity. Wikipedia defines Opaque Inventory as follows: a term used to describe the market of selling unsold travel inventory at a discounted price.

It is called ‘opaque’ because the suppliers, in this case the hotel, remains hidden until after the reservation is completed. It allows hotels to reach more price conscious consumers apart from their direct target markets. This type of hotel guest is less concerned with the specifics of the hotels facilities and services. Instead he is driven mainly by price. The best known Opaque Travel Websites are Priceline and Hotwire.

Priceline.com currently offers a “Name Your Own Price” strategy, which allows for consumers to tell them the price they are willing to pay for a hotel room. If they choose the Name Your Own Price option, first they will need to choose the area they would like to stay in. Next, the consumer selects the Hotel Star Level they are interested in. Lastly, simply select the price you are willing to pay. Once this information has been entered, in most cases the consumer will have an answer in 60 seconds or less and once the price is accepted, they will know which hotel they will be staying at for their trip.

Just as consumers have become savvier with this type of booking method to save money, the Wingate by Wyndham Orlando Airport has also picked up on this strategy and took the initiative to offer a similar strategy. The Wingate by Wyndham Orlando Airport has introduced a Name Your Own Price strategy at the property level.

Simply visit Wingate Orlando Airport and enter general information such as Name, Address, Phone and Email. Then enter the requested check-in and check-out dates and supply the hotel with the price you are willing to pay. The hotel will reply back within 24 hours of receiving the request with acceptance or a counter-offer.

According to Spencer Tarplee, General Manager of the Wingate by Wyndham Orlando International Airport, by utilizing this method our potential guest not only receive the perks of being able to meet their travel budget by the Name Your Own Price model, but also by booking directly with the hotel, the guest is able to guarantee room type and smoking preference and submit any special request.” The Wingate by Wyndham Orlando Airport is excited to offer it’s guests in a bad economy not only a tool to use to be able to budget their trip better, but to also guarantee their reservation and have peace of mind before beginning their travels

Red Hot and Boom in Altamonte Springs July 3

An Independence Day tradition for 15 years, Red Hot & Boom returns to Altamonte Springs on Saturday, July 3 at Cranes Roost Park from 4:00 pm - 11:00 pm. Thousands of people will be in attendance to save themselves a spot on the grounds to enjoy live entertainment as well as the evening’s fireworks display. Altamonte Springs is just north of downtown Orlando off of I-4, and Red Hot & Boom is one of the most popular Independence Day fireworks displays for Orlando area residents.

Red Hot & Boom is sponsored by XL106.7 Radio, and features children's activities, vendor booths, food, drink and a 25 minute fireworks display in the evening after nightfall, which is synchronized with a mix of patriotic tunes and today's musical hits. This years entertainment lineup includes 2AM Club, Neon Trees, Jessie James, White Tie Affair, Charice, FeFe Dobson, Big 10-4, and Aaron Fresh.

Lawn chairs and blankets are permitted for this free event, no coolers, personal fireworks or pets will be allowed inside the venue. For more information, visit the Uptown Altamonte website.

Grocery store near Peabody Hotel in Orlando Florida

The Peabody Hotel in Orlando Florida is in the heart of the International Drive tourism district, but guests of the Peabody and other local hotels usually notice fairly quickly that there is no full service grocery store on I-Drive. While there are small independently owned grocery stores near the Peabody Hotel in Orlando Florida with elevated tourist prices, budget-conscious shoppers don’t need to look far to find a full service Super Walmart at 8101 South John Young Parkway in Orlando, less than five miles away from the hotel.

From the Peabody Hotel in Orlando, Florida drive north on International Drive, turn right (heading east) on Sand Lake Road, and the Walmart Supercenter is at the southeast corner of Sand Lake Road and the John Young Parkway. The Walmart Supercenter includes a full service grocery and is open 24 hours (check the store’s website for pharmacy hours). In addition to the grocery store, pharmacy and other clothing and house wares departments, this Walmart also has a McDonald’s, Garden Center, one hour Photo Center, tire and lube service and a vision center.

Kissimmee Disney Hotels

Celebration Suites at Old Town, located in sunny Kissimmee, Florida, is celebrating summer like never before! Over the last year, this family-friendly hotel has added tons of new amenities and services for guests to take advantage of. On top of these changes, they are offering great prices and specials on Kissimmee’s favorite suites.

A variety of options are now available when booking at Celebration Suites, both online and on the phone. Arriving early? Select early check-in to ensure you have a room waiting for you. Late check-out is also available for guests who want to sleep in or spend their day by the pool before leaving. Continental breakfast is a steal when purchased in advance for only $5 per day for everyone in the room! Not sure if you want to purchase breakfast just yet? Don’t worry, breakfast can be purchased at the hotel for only $1.50/per person and kids under 6 eat free!

By far, the most popular booking option now offered is the opportunity to prepay and save 20% on room reservations. With rates already starting at $59.95, this means guests are able to enjoy their vacation for a fraction of the cost by booking in advance.

All of Celebration Suites’ great family-friendly amenities are waiting for you this summer. Splash into one of three outdoor pools, play in the updated game room, stay on top of things in the new business center or jump into action on the basketball court or sand volleyball court. There are so many more amenities to discover including FREE transportation to the theme parks. Call 1-800-327-9126 or visit Celebration Suites online at www.suitesatoldtown.com to reserve your Kissimmee vacation today!

What if I prefer to reschedule my vacation to a different date because of a hurricane warning? Will I be able to get my same accommodations?

If you are scheduled to arrive within seven (7) days of the hurricane warning, you may call us in advance to reschedule without Disney imposed change fee. All amounts you paid to Disney for rooms, park tickets, Disney dining plans and other Disney products and services will be applied toward your new reservation. Any discounts or free offers applicable to your original vacation will not apply to the rescheduled vacation. We cannot guarantee availability of similar accommodations for the new travel dates. The policy does not apply to certain special events and dining experiences.

Google Will Give Freebies – and Ads – to Orlando Airport Travelers

Google is about to set up electronic shop at Orlando International Airport bringing passengers more free Internet services, new smart-phone apps and even free international phone calls from international gate areas.



The Internet search-engine giant and the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority are negotiating a two-year deal that would have Google sponsor the airport's existing free Wi-Fi Internet service and provide a variety of other new services. In return, Google would pay the airport at least $125,000 a year.



According to a proposal outlined to the GOAA board on Wednesday, as many as 50 free Internet–surfing kiosks would be sprinkled around the airport terminal complex, including at the airsides, so people without laptop computers or smart phones could get online.



Source: Scott Powers, Orlando Sentinel

Marriott opens Lakeshore Reserve at Grande Lakes

The newest Marriott Vacation Club property to open in Orlando is the Marriott Lakeshore Reserve at Grande Lakes. The resort is located on a 500 acre parcel of land that is adjacent to the JW Marriott and Ritz Carlton Orlando Grande Lakes properties. This Marriott Vacation Club timeshare resort officially opened on June 4.

According to the resort’s website, the property has 340 proposed townhomes and villas , Two swimming pools; kidsMAZE® and teenMAZE®+ programs — (Marriott’s Activity Zone Experience), a Fitness center featuring Life Fitness Equipment and full locker rooms, Firepits for outdoor evening activities, a Waterside promenade from the resort to the JW Marriott, and enhanced outdoor grilling facilities.

Prospective owners can have the choice of two bedroom/two bath, two bedroom/ two and a half bath, or three bedroom/three bathroom villas. Amenities include fully equipped kitchen with granite countertops, stainless-steel appliances including an oven, microwave, full-size refrigerator and dishwasher. The units range in size from approximately 1,186 square ft. units that will accommodate 8 guests to approximately 1,625 to 1,655 square ft. units that will accommodate 12 guests.

Boys Town Central Florida Demetree Campus Activity Center Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Boys Town Central Florida Demetree Campus
Activity Center Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Campus Tours
WHEN: Friday, June 25 at 11 a.m.
Boys Town Central Florida Demetree Campus
975 Oklahoma Street, Oviedo FL 32765 | 407.588.2170

Boys Town Central Florida has been saving children and healing families in Florida for more than 23 years. In 2009, 3,093 children received help through Boys Town Central Florida's integrated continuum of youth care programs, including 1,327 who received direct care through Treatment Family Services, Intervention and Assessment Services, In-Home Family Services and Child and Family Support Services, including Common Sense Parenting© and Care Coordination. Visit their website for more info www.boystowncentralflorida.org

Rays pitcher Matt Garza and son visit Adventure Island

Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Matt Garza, joined by son Matthew Garza II, celebrated Father’s Day at Adventure Island on Monday. Garza and son enjoyed a day of water-drenched fun in the sun, ending the day with a race between father and son down the hydra-tubes at Paradise Lagoon.

Located right across the street from Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Adventure Island is 30 acres of water-drenched fun in the sun featuring the ultimate combination of high-speed thrills and tropical, tranquil surroundings for guests of all ages. Within a soothing Key West atmosphere await slides, corkscrews, water falls, a wave pool, children’s water playground and other family attractions. Dig your toes into the sand or relax all day in a private cabana.

For more information about Busch Gardens’ water park, visit AdventureIsland.com.

Old Town Park Info

Free Admission! Free Parking!

Old Town stores are open 365 days a year, from 10:00am-11:00pm.
Bars are open until 2:00am.

$22 per child- Includes 3 hours unlimited amusement rides, a meal voucher for each child to eat at any of our restaurants and a party room for 2 hours.

$30 per child- Includes 3 hours unlimited amusement rides plus bumper cars, laser tag and go karts, a meal voucher for each child to eat at any of our restaurants and a party room for 2 hours.

You will have an indoor party room with tables & chairs, allowing you plenty of time to have your own party for two hours and then enjoy 3 hours of unlimited rides at all of the attractions listed above.

Available times: Saturday and Sunday only at 12:00 pm and 3:00 pm.
Minimum party size: 10 children.

Birthday parties must be reserved in advance and paid in full at time of scheduling.
Reservations are based on availability.

Cancellation policy: All parties are non-refundable
Please note: Old Town is an outdoor attraction. There is no compensation for weather-related issues.
To schedule your party, call 407-396-4888

What can I do if a hurricane warning is issued?

If a hurricane warning is issued by the National Hurricane Center for the Orlando area or for your place of residence no more than seven (7) days before your scheduled arrival date, you may call in advance to reschedule or cancel your Walt Disney Travel Company Magic Your Way vacation package and most room only reservations (booked directly with Disney) without any cancellation or change fees imposed by Disney. This policy also applies to Disney's Vero Beach Resort or Disney's Hilton Head Island Resort in the event a hurricane warning is issued for those destinations.

Weddings at Waldorf Astoria Orlando and Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek

For wedding ceremonies, receptions and honeymoons, Orlando is fast becoming a “go to” destination for couples in love. Both the Waldorf Astoria Orlando and the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek have catering and event specialists on hand to ensure that every detail goes according to plan. Both resorts also feature custom menus and themed décor, as well as specialty wedding cakes.

The Waldorf Astoria Orlando has a signature island that covers 25,000 square feet. It is blanketed with lush landscaping and can be beautifully furnished to accommodate wedding parties of most sizes. For indoor receptions, the Grand Ballroom has 8,100 ft. available for dining and dancing for hundreds of guests. At the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek, the Bonnet Creek Ballroom boasts 36,046 square ft. of space, enough to accommodate at least 2,00 guests at a banquet.

According to a recent article in the Orlando Sentinel, The Waldorf-Astoria Orlando and Hilton Orlando at Bonnet Creek have just begun catering to the area's Indian community by hosting Hindu weddings. These ceremonies tend to be lavish affairs with as many as 400 – 500 guests, and authentic Indian cuisine plays an important role in the celebration.

From intimate gatherings to a Bollywood style celebration, the Waldorf Astoria Orlando and the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek can make any wedding a moment to remember forever.

Shakira Live In Concert! Orlando Amway Arena

Shakira, one of the most exciting and successful global artists in recent history, with more than 214 global award nominations and more than 50 million albums sold worldwide, has announced her 2010 global tour, including a stop September 28 in Orlando at the Amway Arena!

In keeping with Shakira's inspired originality, as well as her sensual rhythms and deliciously unpredictable spirit, the tour promises to push the limits of the live concert experience, bringing fans a pulsating spectacle crossing all musical boundaries. Buy tickets on Ticketmaster.com, the #1 ticketing portal on the web

DRIP Presents a New Rock Show "RIFF"

DRIP, an Orlando based performance art company, is currently creating their next big production; a rock show called “RIFF”. Consistent with the trademark audience-centric DRIP experience, this show puts the audience in the middle from the minute guests arrive. The more adventurous audience members may check their shoes at the door and experience the show barefoot. All guests will be in splash zones and refreshing puddles of water throughout the show.

“DRIP’s new show, ‘RIFF’, is a wet, raw, sexy rock ‘n’ roll experience. The sneak peak has a live rock band, contemporary sensual dance, splashing water, black light guitar strings and emotional stories told through moments in time that are caught with a strobe light.” explains DRIP’s CEO and Creative Director, Jessica Mariko.
DRIP has performed alongside acts such as Blue Man Group and Cirque de Soleil and specializes in creating theatrical experiences that seamlessly combine performing and visual arts. The audience is often right in the middle of the highly visual performances, making them very intimate, sensual and full sensory.

For two weekends in June (10-12 and 17-19), the public and booking representatives are invited to DRIP’s design studio (4502 Old Winter Garden Rd #E2, Orlando, FL 32811), a warehouse just 8 minutes from downtown Orlando, to enjoy a 20 minute sneak peak of “RIFF”, followed by a talkback and after party. Capacity is limited.
If you miss DRIP’s “RIFF” showcase in Orlando, you’ll have one more chance to see it in Miami, July 22 and 23 at Eazy Street Gallery (3501 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33127).

QUICK INFORMATION
“RIFF”
A 20 minute sneak peek of "RIFF" & Warehouse Party Fundraiser

ORLANDO, FL
June 10-12 & June 17-19
Time: 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM 
Location: DRIP’s Design Studio, 4502 Old Winter Garden Rd #E2, Orlando, FL 32811 (8 minutes from downtown Orlando)
MIAMI, FL 
July 22 & 23
Time: 8:00 PM - Midnight 
Location: Eazy Street Gallery, 3501 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33127

No Admission Fee (Donations appreciated)

Visit their website for more information www.ILoveDRIP.com

50 percent Summer Escape deal at Best Western Orlando Gateway

The wait is over—the Wizarding World of Harry Potter has finally opened at Universal Orlando, just in time for the Best Western Orlando Gateway’s Summer Escape at Half Price deal. Simply book through this link and receive 50% off when you stay two nights or longer. This offer is based on consecutive nights and some black out dates apply. The discount is based off normal room rates.

As an official Universal Orlando resort hotel, Best Western Orlando Gateway is minutes away from the hottest ticket in town—the new Harry Potter attraction. The hotel is located in the heart of Orlando’s tourist district on International Drive just across the street from the Wet n Wild water park, so dozens of shopping, dining, and entertainment options are just a short walk from your hotel room.

The Best Western Orlando Gateway provides FREE scheduled shuttle transportation to Universal Studios ®, Islands of Adventure®, Universal CityWalk®, Sea World Adventure Park and Sea World's interactive park, Discovery Cove. Pets are allowed and families are always welcome.

Celebrate Father's Day at Gaylord Palms

Celebrate Father's Day at Gaylord Palms
Save 25% on rooms June 19-20
Get away with Dad on Father's Day weekend. Treat Dad like a king, and you’ll save 25% on an overnight stay!

Father's Day Beer Brunch at Villa de Flora
Sunday, June 20
We're putting a spin on Sunday Brunch in honor of Dad's special day. Make plans to join us for Orlando's premier Father's Day Beer Brunch! Enjoy a preselected flight of three great beers — Sam Adams, Peroni, and Kronengourg.


Father's Day Spa Specials
Available in June
Treat dad to an afternoon at the spa! Special packages and gift certificates are available!


SummerFest Featuring Summer Rockin' Fun
Now – August 29, 2010
The entire hotel transforms into a family music festival with interactive attractions like Rock Band competitions, Live DJ's spinnin' while you're dippin' poolside, Dive-In Family Movies under the stars, and, of course, live bands staged at the restaurants so you can feast your eyes and ears at our five uniquely themed dining venues. Room rates including kids eat FREE start at only $149**.

For the best value, our Rockin' Fun package starts at only $199** and includes kids eat FREE, a $40 daily meal credit***, resort fee, and parking. Save even more when you stay June 30 - July 4 — packages start at only $189**!

And don't miss out on these great FREE SummerFest-only events:
• Roadies Challenge - Hidden Guitar Scavenger Hunt
• Live Alligator and Key West Lagoon Fish Feedings
• Dive-In Family Movies

For complete SummerFest details, click here

Harbor Nights Americana at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando!

HARBOR NIGHTS AMERICANA
Friday, July 2 at 6:30pm

Kick off the Independence Day weekend at Harbor Nights Americana at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando!

Join us for a wine tasting and jazz event designed to capture the ambiance of the Mediterranean. Enjoy select wines and sparkling wines, gourmet food samples, live music performed by The Robert Harris Group and more! Harbor Nights Americana takes place in the Tuscan Ballroom at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel.

CLICK HERE TO GET TICKETS
Tickets: $35* on-line or $45 at the door
Reserved Seating**: $60* on-line or $70 at the door

*Ticketing fees apply. **Includes Harbor Nights ticket, reserved seating, private wine station & passed hors d'ouevres.

Summertime at the Orlando attractions

Summertime is definitely the high travel season for Orlando, when visitors from around the country and across the globe fill the theme park attractions. And this year, there are several factors that might make Orlando even more attractive to tourists than ever. With gas prices going down, Orlando has become more affordable as a road trip destination for Floridian travelers.

The driving force for Orlando tourism this summer is expected to be The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando's Islands of Adventure. The soft opening is already underway, and the highly anticipated grand opening has been generating a buzz among theme park lovers for a couple of years now, and it will undoubtedly attract fans of J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter novels from both sides of the Atlantic.

Manta... Celebrating its 1-year anniversary at SeaWorld Orlando

Manta is an all-new flying roller coaster at SeaWorld Orlando that seamlessly blends up-close animal encounters with a head-first, face-down thrill ride that's sure to top the must-see lists again this summer.

Celebrate "Life Moments" at Gaylord Palms Resort

Turn life's special moments into forever memories.
Celebrate with your loved ones at Gaylord Palms Resort.

Make your anniversary as memorable as the day you said, "I do!" Celebrate in style in a deluxe guest room, enjoy preferred reservations at any of our world-class restaurants, get a congratulations message on our giant AstroVision screen, and best of all... get your SECOND NIGHT FREE*! Learn more...


Now you can celebrate birthdays with twice as much spirit. Book the first night of your birthday stay and get the SECOND NIGHT FREE*!
Learn more...

Creating romantic memories with those you love is important, so we've created a getaway for you including champagne welcome amenity, $40 meal credit and more! Learn more...


Get away with Dad on Father's Day weekend. Treat Dad like a king, and you’ll save 25% on an overnight stay! Learn more...


Take the family on tour to Orlando and vacation like Rock Stars at this summer’s best sounding getaway. For those about to rock, we salute you with a non-stop splash of musical activities and amplified events at this summer’s most rockin' vacation destination - SummerFest! Learn more...

Rockin Lake Eola

Consider it an outdoor Happy Hour to cap off a busy work week—this summer on Friday nights from 5:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m. Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando is hosting an after work outdoor party with live nationally known bands as well as local artists. The event is open to the public and visitors can enjoy an assortment of foods as well as alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

In addition to the Rockin Lake Eola event every Friday, visitors can enjoy the Lake Eola fountain, which is finally spurting out water after being zapped out of commission by a lightning strike in August of 2009. The fountain still has an estimated $1 million worth of repairs remaining, but the City of Orlando had to get the water running first to prevent the summer heat from damaging the fountain any further.

To get a full schedule of performers and other special events at Rockin Lake Eola, visit the event website.

Disney Shopping

Merchandise purchases don’t have to be a burden. There are alternatives to carrying the packages throughout the parks:

• Package pickup is available at no charge. Merchandise is moved to package pickup, conveniently located near the front entrance of each park, for guests’ pickup when they are leaving the park.
• Hotel delivery is available at no charge to guests of Walt Disney World resorts. Purchases made prior to 7 p.m. will be delivered to the guest’s hotel by noon the following day. Purchases made after 7 p.m. will be at the hotel on the second day after purchase.
• Shipping is available for an additional charge at the time of purchase

Does Disney Offer Lockers For Rental.

Lockers are available for rental. They are first come, first served – and quite popular. They are located near the entrance of each park. There are a variety of sizes. If you are park-hopping, you don’t have to pay the locker fee a second time on a day (just a key deposit) provided you keep your receipt.

Must play Orlando golf courses

Vacationers who are looking for Orlando golf courses will be pleased with the variety of courses available. By booking a vacation package through Tee Times USA, golfers at all experience levels can find what they are looking for, plus incredible deals even during the peak travel season.

Orlando golf courses include courses that have been designed by legends of the game. The Bay Hill Champions Course was designed by Arnold Palmer and is the home of the Arnold Palmer Golf Academy. Bay Hill is also the site of the Arnold Palmer Invitational on the PGA tour, making it one of the must play golf courses in the state of Florida.

Another one of the championship Orlando golf courses is Championsgate, which was designed by Greg Norman. These two signature golf courses are only 15 minutes from International Drive, so avid golfers have full access to all of the attractions that Orlando has to offer. And for travelers looking for Orlando golf courses near the “Happiest Place on Earth,” Tee Times makes it easy to make reservations at Disney Osprey Ridge, Disney Palm Golf Course, and Disney Magnolia Golf, home of the famous Mickey Mouse bunker.

With so many Orlando golf courses to choose from, it’s easy to find a vacation package that is best suited for the casual or expert golfer, whether want to spend their entire Florida vacation on the green, or combine their vacation with a trip to the theme parks or a day at the beach.

Ramada Convention Center I-Drive official Universal Studios' Harry Potter attraction hotel.

The Ramada Convention Center I-Drive is now the official hotel for Universal Studios' new Harry Potter Wizarding World attraction!



Theme-park guests aboard the new Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey attraction at Universal Orlando's Islands of Adventure will be tossed, turned and dangled over scenery — and scary moments — similar to what the boy wizard encountered in the Potter films.



Passengers ride in a row of four people on a so-called enchanted bench (really, a broomstick wouldn't be very comfortable or secure, would it?) An over-shoulder harness lowers to secure them for a twisting journey on a robotic arm that throws riders from side to side, through surging, forward-moving maneuvers and eventually completely on their backs — although never completely upside down.



After winding through Forbidden Journey's extensively themed queue and making a left turn at the sorting hat, guests are lead to a moving sidewalk and settle back into the seats. Team members lower the harnesses into place while music from the films' opening credits play. Overhead are levitating candles like those seen in the Great Hall in the films.

Keeping the Magic Disney vacation package

Even during the peak travel season, there are affordable Disney vacation packages that the entire family can enjoy. For a limited time, you can pay only $399 for a 4 day/3 night Walt Disney World vacation package, with the option of keeping the magic alive even longer for an extended stay.

This Disney vacation package includes:

· Luxury two room suite accommodations at the All Suite Buena Vista Suites Resort (a Walt Disney World Good Neighbor hotel) for 4 days/ 3 nights.
· Suites can accommodate up to 6 people
· Free scheduled transportation to the Walt Disney World Resort
· Complimentary evening shuttle transfer to the Downtown Disney entertainment and dining area
· Two - 2 Day Tickets to Walt Disney World Resort. Choose from Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios, or Disney's Animal Kingdom.
· Two - 1 Day Ticket to any Walt Disney World water park. Choose from Blizzard Beach or Typhoon Lagoon.

For only $180, this special Disney vacation package can be upgraded to 5 day/ 4 night stay, plus two more days at the Walt Disney World theme parks. Visit Orlandoescape.com for more details about this special Disney vacation package. Reservations must be made over the phone by calling 1-800-396-1883 toll free or 407-239-3553 for international calls.

Wizarding World Opened for Limited Hours

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter reportedly opened on May 28 for limited hours to guests who had special vacation packages booked in advance.

Theme park bloggers said that the newest section of Universal Orlando Resort's Islands of Adventure opened from 8-10 a.m., allowing those vacationers with a hotel pass a chance to enjoy the shops and rides. Not many were able to experience the area's highlight ride, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, inside the massive Hogwarts castle, since it experienced technical problems and was out of service during most of that time, Internet reports said.

However, guests who were able to ride it described it as a cross between Soarin' at Epcot and Spider-Man at Islands of Adventure, but with robot-arm ride vehicles rather than standard ones, said one theme park blogger. The ride also features spiders, Dementors, Nagini and even the villain Voldemort, created through real effects and screens, bloggers said.

The revamped Dragon Challenge roller coaster, formerly Dueling Dragons, is reportedly staying open through a different entrance even when the rest of the Wizarding World closes.

The Wizarding World is slated to open to the general public June 18.

Source: Orlando Business Journal

When visiting The The Wizarding World stay at on of these fine Hotels on International Drive

Waldorf Astoria Orlando Spa and Fitness

Even in Orlando, there are times when you need a vacation from your vacation, in a place where there is no parking lot for strollers. The Waldorf Astoria Spa by Guerlain® at the newly opened Waldorf Astoria Orlando resort is a 24,000 square foot spa that includes 21 treatment rooms and offers the highest quality Guerlain® products.

The Waldorf Astoria’s spa treatment includes a variety of facial therapies, body therapies ranging from 45 minutes to two hours, deep tissue, lymphatic drainage, and shiatsu massage, plus totally transforming spa experiences that offer a combination of these therapies. There are special therapies available for men and makeover sessions for women or entire bridal parties. To make a spa reservation, visit the Waldorf Astoria Orlando or call 407-597-5360

And don’t forget to work out in the Orlando Fitness Center. Guests of the Waldorf Astoria Orlando have complimentary access to the Orlando Fitness Center, which is staffed with a fitness attendant and is open 24 hours a day. The Orlando Fitness Center offers a state of the art facility overlooking the swimming pool and golf course, Precor® workout equipment, treadmills with flat-screen televisions.

After an invigorating workout or a refreshing massage, there is an entire resort full of activities to enjoy at the Waldorf Astoria Orlando—you might even be able to face those tourist crowds once again.

Top 10 Disney World Vacation Deals

• Gaylord Palms
• Marriott Hotels Orlando
• Waldorf Astoria Orlando
• Hilton Bonnet Creek Orlando
• Sheraton | Westin Hotels
• Four Points by Sheraton
• Ramada Hotels in Orlando
• Vista Cay Resort
• Hotel Reservations
• Orlando Timeshares

Citywalk June 2010 Calendar of Events

Red Bull Manny Mania
Saturday, June 12th ~ 1pm – 6pm
Check out some of Florida’s most talented skateboarders as they compete for a shot at global skateboarding fame. Admission to event is free (excludes parking).

Watch the World’s Largest Sporting Competition
Catch every game in the world soccer championships at several CityWalk venues.
- NBA City and NASCAR Sports Grille ~ 11am – 2am
- Pat O’Brien’s ~ 2pm – 2am

**RESTAURANTS AND CLUBS**

Bob Marley – A Tribute to Freedom
Legendary Thursdays ~ 9pm – close
- 1/2 off select appetizers
- Heineken and Appleton drink specials

Entertainment
Mystik NRG ~ Monday – Friday
Chain Reaction ~ Saturday & Sunday

CityWalk’s Rising Star
Entertainment
Karaoke with Live Band & Backup Singers ~ Tuesday – Saturday
Karaoke with Backup Singers ~ Sunday & Monday

Emeril’s Restaurant Orlando
Happy Hour ~ Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays: 5pm – 8pm

the groove
80s Night – Every Thursday from 9pm to close
- Free admission until 10pm
- $7 cover after 10pm; 21 and up for admission
- SWITCH live every 3rd Thursday
- Russian Standard & Pinnacle Vodka drink specials
- DJ Doc Wells spinning dance, new wave, hair bands and more

Teen Nights at the groove
Come listen to live DJs spin all of today’s hits, and experience state-of-the-art sound, lighting and video. Open to teens ages 15-19 with valid photo ID or student ID.

Wednesdays ~ 8pm – 12am (Admission: $10)

Entertainment
DJs ~ nightly

Hard Rock Live
Purchase tickets at the Hard Rock Live Box Office or by calling 407-351-LIVE

June 1st ~ The Backstreet Boys
June 4th ~ Joan Rivers
June 6th ~ Fasscination with DJ Abel
June 11th ~ Screeching Weasel with The Queers & the Speers
June 12th ~ Classic Albums Live featuring The Beatles “White Album”
June 15th ~ Silversun Pickups with Against Me! & the Henry Clay People
June 26th ~ The Comedians of Chelsea Lately Tour featuring Chuy, John Caparulo, Brad Wollack and Jen Kirkman

Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville
Happy Hour at Lone Palm ~ Monday – Friday from 3pm to 5pm
Half-priced domestic drafts and house margaritas

Entertainment
Blue Stone Circle ~ Tuesday – Saturday
Hypersona ~ Sunday & Monday
Guitar Hero at Lone Palm ~ Daily
Live Guitar Soloist on Porch of Indecision ~ Daily
Interactive DJ on the Porch of Indecision ~ Friday & Saturday nights

Latin Quarter
Entertainment
Alejandro Kartal ~ Nightly on the patio
DJ Leony ~ Thursday – Saturday

NASCAR Sports Grille
Happy Hour ~ All Day on Tuesdays and Wednesdays

Thursday Madness ~ 7pm to close
- Food and drink specials
- Free video games in the Speed Zone Arcade

NASKid’s Wednesdays
- Bring your parking receipt and kids eat free with each adult entrée, and receive a free game card for the arcade

NBA City
All sports, all the time!
Happy Hour daily ~ 4pm – 7pm

Drink specials and special bar menu during NBA playoff games – playoff shirts now available

Pat O’Brien’s Orlando
2 for Tuesdays ~ 4pm – 10pm
2 for 1 Hurricanes; 2 for 1 domestic drafts and drink specials
Half-price select appetizers

Entertainment
World Famous Dueling Piano Players ~ Nightly

Red Coconut Club
Nightly Happy Hour
Sunday – Thursday: 8pm – 10pm; Friday and Saturday: 6pm – 9pm
$5 Martinis and complimentary valet parking

Ladies Night every Thursday ~ 8pm – close
Ladies receive complimentary admission and drink specials all evening

In Crowd Hospitality Sundays ~ Sundays at 10pm
Free admission for members of the hospitality industry all evening
Russian Standard Vodka drink specials starting at $3 with your ID or hospitality pay stub

Entertainment
Herb Williams Band ~ Thursday – Saturday
DJs ~ Nightly

AMC Universal Cineplex 20
Get Him to the Greek – June 4th, 2010

**Dates and times subject to change

Uptown Altamonte June Events

Weekly Calendar Listings - June

Cranes Roost Park at Uptown Altamonte - Concerts/Events Calendar

* Please note that our times for Friday Night Live concerts have changed to begin at 8pm; also we have added in the performers for this month.

Friday Night Live Unplugged

June 4 – 8 to 10 pm – Ed Self and Michael J (Acoustic)

Cranes Roost Park at Uptown Altamonte

407-571-8863 – Free

Friday Night Live

June 11– 8 to 10 pm – DEJA (Island, Calypso, Reggae)

Cranes Roost Park at Uptown Altamonte

407-571-8863 – Free

Cranes Roost Sunset Cinema

June 12 – Free Outdoor Family Films – Annie – 8 pm

Cranes Roost Park at Uptown Altamonte

407-571-8863 – Free

Friday Night Live

June 18 – 8 to 10 pm – Sound of Sinatra with John Anthony (Rat Pack Tribute)

Cranes Roost Park at Uptown Altamonte

407-571-8863 – Free

Jazz Jams Uptown

June 19 – Concert Series – 7 to 10 pm

Cranes Roost Park at Uptown Altamonte

407-571-8863 – Free

WLOQ Smooth Jazz 103.1 and the City of Altamonte Springs bring the areas best jazz concert series back for its fifth year. Join us in the Eddie Rose Amphitheater for a fantastic live performance by national artist, Shilts. This concert series attracts many vendors to Cranes Roost Blvd. adding to the excitement of things to do and see. Cranes Roost Blvd. will be closed for this event, no pets will be allowed in the park during the event.

Friday Night Live

June 25 – 8 to 10 pm – Bird Dog Bobby (Blues)

Cranes Roost Park at Uptown Altamonte

407-571-8863 – Free

Choreographed Fountain Show

Nightly, except Tuesdays – 8 & 9 pm in the Plaza

Cranes Roost Park at Uptown Altamonte

407-571-8863 - Free

For more information on these or any event at Cranes Roost Park please contact Jerry Sullivan at 407-571-8860.