Happy Earth Day

April 22, 2013 By

Today is Earth Day! Over one billion people in 192 countries are participating from London to Sao Paolo, Seoul to Babylon City, New Delhi to New York, Rome to Cairo; people everywhere are taking action in their communities and helping depict The Face of Climate Change.

How can you get involved? Attend an Earth Day event in your community, start doing something to lower your carbon footprint, and take a photo of yourself being part of the solution and upload it to The Face of Climate Change Wall.

Wondering what’s happening around the world? Here are just a few of the events taking place:

In Copenhagen, Denmark—as well as in six other cities on five continents—the Danish Cultural Institute is organizing its annual CO 2 Green Drive Project in honor of Earth Day. Runners, walkers, bikers, and skaters are using their cities as canvasses to spell “CO 2“ with GPS devices.

In Argentina, volunteers from the Surfrider Foundation are cleaning up the local beaches and planting evergreens and Tamarisk shrubs to help prevent wind and water erosion.

5,000 miles to the northeast, in Ghana, The Rural Education and Development Programme (REDEP) is hosting a three-part event that includes a community clean-up, a “Face of Climate Change” theatre production, and an environmentally-themed essay contest.

A local organization in Jalandhar, India—in coordination with Earth Day Network India—is distributing free saplings to students and hosting a discussion about the effects of climate change and ways to mitigate it.

In Milan, Italy, thousands of people are gathering for the Earth Day Italia Festival to learn about environmental issues and spur action on local green initiatives.

Meanwhile in Seoul, South Korea, Ecomom Korea is organizing an “Eco-style” Earth Day Flash Mob, a variation of the popular song “Gangnam Style,” as well as hosting an Earth Day Walkathon and an Earth Day exhibition, which will showcase The Face of Climate Change photo display.

In Santa Barbara, California, thousands of people attended the local Earth Day Festival, which included live music, speakers, a Green Car Show, and special awards given to Van Jones and Bill Nye.

In Veracruz, Mexico, Tortugas Fundacion Yepez is mobilizing volunteers to protect the habitat of sea turtles by cleaning up the local beaches and organizing a reforestation campaign.

The Bent Al-Rafedain Organization in Babylon, Iraq—in cooperation with the Department of the Environment—is honoring Earth Day by documenting the sources of pollution in their community and organizing a media campaign to educate residents and encourage government officials to reduce pollution.

In Columbus, Ohio, Green Columbus is mobilizing hundreds of volunteers to pull invasive plants, clean up neighborhoods, and plan trees at over 100 volunteer sites across the state.

Far away in Chuuk, Micronesia, Xavier High School is hosting an Earth Day Conference with the theme “The Face of Climate Change” that will feature a neighborhood clean-up, speakers, educational workshops, and an environmentally-themed school song competition.

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April 18, 2013 By

The Nature Conservancy will host an open house on April 27 to observe the 20th anniversary of Disney Wilderness Preserve.  Scientists, Florida cowboys, wildlife biologists and environmental educators will entertain visitors with fun outdoor activities that demonstrate nature at work.

Disney purchased these 8,500 acres and then donated them to the Conservancy in the early 90′s as part of their efforts to maintain the headwaters of the everglades, but also to offset some of the planned development in the resort.

Located south of Walt Disney World Resort, the preserve sits at the top of the headwaters of the Everglades watershed and  is home to more than 1,000 species of plants and animals including bald eagles, sandhill cranes, wild turkeys and red-shouldered hawks.

“We learned everything we know about wetlands restoration there,” says Tricia Martin, director of conservation for The Nature Conservancy chapter in Central Florida. “It was the first project to take on the challenge of transforming an entire degraded landscape back to a healthy, functioning ecosystem—one right at the head of the Everglades.”

The scope of the work and the large scale ecosystem approach to mitigation represented a sea change in conventional thinking— and a unique collaboration among government, conservation organizations and business. The conservation and restoration work is already improving the quality and quantity of water within the Greater Everglades and has served as a springboard for The Nature Conservancy’s work in the larger landscape.

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Snow Flurries Forecast for a Limited Time at Epcot

January 15, 2013 By

For one week only, January 14-20, Epcot guests can meet and take photos with some favorite Disney characters in a magical Winter Wonderland. A new meet and greet location with gently falling snow has been created in the Canada pavilion at Walt Disney World Resort as part of Limited Time Magic. Limited Time Magic kicked off at Walt Disney World the first week of 2013 featuring extra surprises and delights each week during 2013.

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Happy New Year

January 1, 2013 By

Florida Deluxe Villas would like to wish all our owners and guests a Very Happy New Year, and a healthy and joyful 2013.

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Happy Yule

December 21, 2012 By


Yule Log is a significant part of Christmas traditions. Yule log is a large log burned in the hearth of the house. It is a symbol of prosperity and luck. It is believed, if the tradition is followed with sincerity and devotion, it would bring good health, wealth and productivity in the year ahead.

The Story of Yule Log
The tradition is practiced in many countries and hence several legends are associated with its origin. The most popular story of the Yule Log dates back to the 12th century. During this period in most of the European countries, the winter festival was celebrated by burning wood and drinking wine. The Solstice festival was Jol (Yule) which was celebrated throughout Northern Europe and Scandinavia. It was a feast to honor the Norse God, Odin who was the God of Intoxicating Drink. The custom of Yule Log emerged from the Europe’s winter festival.

Tradition of Yule Log
Burning the Yule Log is a crucial Christmas tradition today. The custom of Yule log varies from region to region. It was originally a large tree brought to the house with great ceremony. On Christmas, people light the Yule log placed in the hearth and wish that it burns for longer. As per the belief, all the family members must sit on it before it is burnt. It is also customary to say prayers and sing Christmas songs while performing the traditional activity. In some families, young girls and mothers take the privilege to light the log. The burning of the Yule Log brings in good fortune for the family and friends and scare off the evil spirits. After the Christmas celebrations, a piece of the Yule log is kept to relight the next year’s log.

December 21st is the Winter Solstice.The winter solstice is the solstice that occurs in winter. It is the time at which the Sun appears at noon at its lowest altitude above the horizon. In the Northern Hemisphere this is the Southern solstice, the time at which the Sun is at its southernmost point in the sky, which usually occurs on December 21 to 22 each year.
In the Southern Hemisphere this is the Northern solstice, the time at which the Sun is at its northernmost point in the sky, which usually occurs on June 20 to 21 each year.
The axial tilt of Earth and gyroscopic effects of the planet’s daily rotation keep the axis of rotation pointed at the same point in the sky. As the Earth follows its orbit around the Sun, the same hemisphere that faced away from the Sun, experiencing winter, will, in half a year, face towards the Sun and experience summer. Since the two hemispheres face opposite directions along the planetary pole, as one polar hemisphere experiences winter, the other experiences summer.
More evident from high latitudes, a hemisphere’s winter solstice occurs on the shortest day and longest night of the year, when the sun’s daily maximum elevation in the sky is the lowest. Since the winter solstice lasts only a moment in time, other terms are often used for the day on which it occurs, such as “midwinter”, “the longest night”, “the shortest day” or “the first day of winter”. The seasonal significance of the winter solstice is in the reversal of the gradual lengthening of nights and shortening of days.
Worldwide, interpretation of the event has varied from culture to culture, but most Northern Hemisphere cultures have held a recognition of rebirth, involving holidays, festivals, gatherings, rituals or other celebrations around that time.

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Christmas Travel Tips

December 18, 2012 By


Always report any suspicious activity. You may do so by calling your local police for non- emergency or 9-1-1 for any emergency. Both are operational 24/7.
Always lock your vehicle and take all valuables with you. These items may include GPS, cell phone, loose change, and compact disc to name a few.
Set your vehicle alarm if you have one. In addition to locking you vehicle doors, make sure if your vehicle has a latch to open a trunk or cargo area, and if it is equipped with a lock feature; that you use it.
Do not announce on your email auto response that you are on vacation with the dates you are leaving or returning. This includes both work and personal emails. If you must leave an auto response reply it should contain as little information as possible. Example: I am currently away and periodically checking my emails. If you need an immediate response, please contact Jane Doe at 407-555-5555.
Do not announce to the whole community that you will be gone on vacation. This would include by word of mouth, voice mail and social networking sites (Facebook, My Space, Twitter, etc) Only let a few select and trusted friends or family members know so they can check your home for you.
Do not update your travel plans on social networking sites. Example: We are having a blast in the islands… we go snorkeling tomorrow. Wishing you were here. See you in two weeks.
Turn down the ringer on your phone so it can’t be heard from the outside
Periodically retrieve your home messages so your voice mail does not get full. This could be another indicator you are not home.
Do a maintenance check of your alarm system prior to your departure. Make sure the alarm company has updated contact information to include how to reach you as well as a trusted friend or relative in the area.
Contact your local police department and request they provide house checks while you are away. This is a free service.
Make arrangements to have someone cut your grass while you are away. If you have a lawn service, continue to have them provide the service. Do not announce to them you are leaving. Make sure your lawn and pool service is paid and up to date. This will prevent them from leaving a bill at your front door or mailbox.
Stop all deliveries to include parcel packages and newspaper delivery

Have a trusted relative, friend or neighbor do the following:
1.Park a spare vehicle in your drive way while you are away.
2.The first preference is to have your mail stopped. The second option is to have a friend/neighbor check and retrieve your mail. This includes a community mailbox.
3.Place trash in front of your home on trash day and then remove the receptacle.
4.Periodic walks and inspections around your home
5.Pick up any newspaper deliveries. (The preference is to have it stopped)
6.Check the front door for unsolicited fliers, bills (pool, lawn) and parcel packages left at your front door. Have them remove these items.
7.Place interior/outdoor lights, televisions and radios on timers. Make sure your lights are timed for appropriate hours.
8.Unplug your garage door opener and lock the rails from the inside.
9.Inspect your home prior to departure and make sure all windows and doors are locked and secure. This should also include storage areas.
10.Make sure you secure outdoor items such as bicycles, toys, outdoor grill, etc.
11.Unplug all appliances to include TV, stereos, computers, toasters, and microwave ovens to prevent damage during electrical storms.
12.Make sure the last person out of the house locks the door. Then make a check of the outside to make sure everything is secure.

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Happy Hanukkah

December 8, 2012 By


This year, Hanukkah begins on the evening of Saturday, Dec. 8, and ends a week later on Sunday, Dec. 16.
According to Chabad.org, Hanukkah starts on the Hebrew calendar date of 25 Kislev and lasts for eight days. For those of us who aren’t attuned to the Jewish calendar, that translates to sundown on Saturday, Dec. 8.
Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, commemorates the story of the Maccabean Revolt against Syrian rulers in present day Israel 2,300 years ago. The Maccabees wanted to rededicate Jerusalem’s main temple but had only enough oil to kindle the Eternal Light for one day. The oil lasted for eight days, according to the story, and the holiday of Hanukkah was born.
Today, Jews generally celebrate by gathering together with family, lighting one candle on the menorah each of the eight nights, playing dreidel and eating special holiday foods such as potato latkes and babka.
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Polar Express Experience.

December 8, 2012 By


Holiday guests can take an exciting trip to the North Pole aboard The Polar Express Experience. SeaWorld’s Wild Arctic is transformed into the North Pole… and getting there is half the fun! The Polar Express Experience is based on the film from Warner Bros. Pictures and Shangri-La Entertainment, inspired by the beloved children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg about a doubting young boy who embarks on a journey of self-discovery during an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole on Christmas Eve.

The Polar Express Experience immerses passengers on a multi-sensory journey of special lighting, scent, sound and motion effects in classic scenes recreated from the movie. Upon arrival at the North Pole, discover a winter wonderland of holiday cheer and amazing animal encounters.

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The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights

December 4, 2012 By


The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights on the Streets of America at Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park is a breathtaking seasonal display featuring millions of glittering lights perfectly synchronized to holiday music.

The lights are so extensive you may find it hard to comprehend their magnitude. Entire buildings are blanketed in sheets of multi-colored lights, and thousands more lights form twirling carousels, heavenly angels, and even Santa and his reindeer. Approximately every 10 minutes, the lights dim and then dramatically spring to life — dynamically choreographed to traditional holiday music. You have to see the effect to believe it!

Some nights, if you truly believe in holiday magic, the show is capped off with an enchanted flurry of snow.

The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights started modestly in Arkansas as a single home’s annual display.
Jennings Osborne (1943-2011), along with his wife Mitzi, founded the “Arkansas Research Medical Testing Center” in Little Rock, Arkansas in 1968. The business’ success allowed him and his wife to eventually purchase a large estate in the middle of town in 1976. In 1980 the Osbornes had a daughter, Allison Brianne Osborne (nicknamed “Little Breezy”).
In 1986, Breezy made a very simple request of her parents for Christmas … to decorate their home in lights. Jennings gladly complied, stringing 1000 lights around their home. “Each year after that, it got bigger and bigger,” Osborne would later recall.[6] So big, in fact, that Osborne purchased the two properties adjacent to his own and expanded the display into them.
By 1993, the display had over three million lights. Some of the more prominent features included:
an illuminated globe, with Little Rock and Bethlehem marked, mounted in the back yard;
two rotating carousels of lights, placed on each end of the estate’s circular driveway;
a 70-foot (21 m)-tall Christmas tree of lights with 80,000 lights in three colored layers, mounted atop the home’s kitchen; and
a canopy of 30,000 red lights over a section of the driveway.[7]
The lights were a wildly popular attraction, both in Arkansas and around the world, as news crews often visited to film the display. In 1995, the Osborne family decided to share their magic with the world, and Walt Disney World Resort happily offered to become the new permanent home for this exceptional exhibition of holiday cheer.

The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights is included with standard admission to Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park.

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LegoLand Christmas Bricktacular

December 4, 2012 By


Holiday festivities on Saturdays and Sundays in December during Christmas Bricktacular will feature tons of family fun:

LEGO® Christmas Tree: The more than 30-foot-tall LEGO Christmas tree made with a combination of 270,000 forest green LEGO and DUPLO® bricks provides the perfect place for every holiday family photo. Through Dec. 25, a special family will be chosen to help light the Bricktacular tree each night.

LEGO Model Build Activity: What LEGO lover doesn’t want a chance to build while at Central Florida’s newest theme park featuring massive creations of the world’s most beloved toy? Help LEGOLAND Florida build a LEGO Christmas Tree in the Wells Fargo Fun Town 4D Theatre Plaza that will stand over 20 foot tall when completed.

LEGO Santa Scavenger Hunt: Help find Santa in this fun-filled holiday scavenger hunt. The whole family can enjoy searching for Santa in the over 30 million LEGO bricks that make up Miniland USA. One lucky hunter each day will receive a prize from the daily drawing.

LEGO Santa and LEGO Toy Soldier: Guests will have meet and greet opportunities with LEGOLAND Florida’s special holiday friends, LEGO Santa and LEGO Toy Soldier.

Holiday Festivities and Entertainment: Festive decorations and sounds of the season will fill the entrance of the park and a variety of holiday entertainment will take place throughout the weekend to delight guests of all ages.

Holiday Shopping: LEGOLAND Florida is the best place to celebrate the season and pick up the holiday gifts that are on every child’s wish list – LEGO! With six specialty stores, the park is proud to offer a unique and often hard to find selection of LEGO products and more.

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Single Riders

December 3, 2012 By

This suggestion won’t work for parents who have young children, but if you don’t mind seeing your older kids take off in the car before you or the car after you, Disney’s single rider lanes are a real time-saver. Essentially, by getting into this line you agree to let the park personnel at the front of the line assign you to any car where they need to fill a seat, even if that means splitting up your family and friends for the length of the ride. Many times, you’ll find smaller groups stay together anyway. Single rider lines can cut your wait time in half — sometimes by even more at peak wait times. Look for the option if you think your family situation will allow it.

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November 28, 2012 By

Festival of the Masters is returning to Downtown Disney from Nov. 9 through 11, 2012 for its 37th year. The famous open-air fine arts festival features nearly 150 award-winning artists, sidewalk chalk art, limited-edition fine art, photography, sculpture, jewelry, glass art, Disney collectibles, live music and more.

Art from an array of Disney artists also will be on display and available for purchase. The Disney Artist Village tent at Pleasure Island will feature Disney character art created by masters from various Disney disciplines, including Walt Disney Imagineering. At the Art of Disney, artist Dave Avanzino will create art pieces using prop-like elements and fonts based on signs and attractions found around Disney theme parks. Both locations will feature artist appearances throughout the weekend.

For the first time ever, the event will feature an Emerging Masters area, where more than 30 juried up-and-coming artists will showcase works and compete for awards. Guests also can become part of the festival with interactive fun. Various activities presented by Michael’s will be available, including “Make It Take It” crafts, a do-it-yourself fashion show, and the “Michaels Master Mural” where guests can help create a mosaic-like mural.

Other activities will include complimentary face painting and live entertainment by performers from La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil, a chance to construct an 8-foot-tall Lego Hulk figure, domino games at Fuego by Sosa Cigars, live music at various venues and more.

Admission and self-parking are complimentary at Downtown Disney.

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“The Happiest Balloon on Earth”

November 8, 2012 By

When it comes to hot air balloons there is nothing more Disney than the “The Happiest Balloon on Earth” (a twist on Disneyland’s famous designation as “The Happiest Place on Earth”). The balloon will be visiting Leon, Guanajuato, to participate in the 11th annual International Balloon Festival, Nov. 16-19 in Metropolitan Ecological Park and will fly daily throughout the festival.

Mickey and the Disneyland team are looking forward to 2013, when visitors to Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California, will discover ‘Limited Time Magic:” a different event, special show or other surprise each week throughout the year. “Limited Time Magic” in 2013 will be a fun reminder that there’s no time like the present to make lasting memories with family and friends at a Disney park.
“The Happiest Balloon on Earth” is designed as a giant representation of Mickey Mouse’s familiar smiling face. The balloon stands 98-feet tall and spans 53 feet from ear-to-ear. Mickey’s pupils are 6 feet across, his nose is 5.5 feet wide, and it took over nine miles of thread to sew together this special shape. You may remember they changed the ear colors for the Year of Dreams promotion a few years ago. Nice to have it back to black.
“It is indeed one of the most unique and specialized hot air balloons we have ever piloted,” says Scott Spencer, who along with his wife Laurie, serve as the balloon’s pilots. “When the balloon comes in for a landing it gives a whole new meaning to the phrase ‘ears to the ground!’”
The appearance of “The Happiest Balloon on Earth” at the 11th Annual International Balloon Festival in Leon is an invitation to everyone to visit Disneyland Resort and experience all the amazing entertainment, events and other surprises that will make “Limited Time Magic” in 2013. “The Happiest Balloon on Earth” last visited the festival in 2006 during the 18-month celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the opening of Disneyland.

Balloon Statistics
* Height: 98 feet from ground to top of ears
* Weight: Estimate 410 lbs.
* Circumference: 168 feet
* Diameter: 53 feet
* Volume: 90,000 cubic feet (body) – 113,000 total
* Lift capacity: 1800 lb. max gross lift
* Thread Used: Approximately 9 miles of thread!
* Fabric for Mouse Ears: Approximately 750 sq. yards
* Total fabric: Approximately 4,744 sq. yards

Fun Facts
* Mickey’s nose is 5.5 feet in diameter….. a child could easily stand up inside it.
* If Mickey’s body were added to the balloon he would stand over 200 feet tall!
* The pupils of Mickey’s eyes are over 6 feet in diameter.
* The Happiest Balloon on Earth can fit into a bag which is 1,400 times smaller than the fully inflated balloon.
* On a good weather day, The Happiest Balloon on Earth can fly two miles high!
* Laurie Spencer is the first female pilot of a Disney hot air balloon (her husband Scott is co-pilot).

General Hot Air Balloon Info
* Launch locations are variable and dependent on weather, balloon safety and FAA restrictions
* Weather permitting, the balloon can potentially be utilized for thirty minutes to an hour maximum in the early morning (Sunrise to 10am on a perfect day) or prior to sunset in the summer and potentially mid-day in the fall. In most cases, mid day weather is completely unpredictable due to the heat of the atmosphere.
* Once the balloon is inflated, there are three ways to operate it:
* Static inflation (ground)
* Tethered (Just off the ground)
* Free flight
* Inflation and tethering of The Happiest Balloon on Earth balloon requires a 150′ x 150′ unobstructed footprint, preferably grass.
* Two vehicles and a trailer are required to the support tour:
* Chase vehicle and balloon trailer
* Motor home to use for all ground support, radio and TV remote backdrop etc.
* Manufacturer: Cameron Balloons US (Ann Arbor Michigan)
* Balloon Pilots: Scott and Laurie Spencer.

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The 37th Festival of the Masters

November 6, 2012 By

The 37th Festival of the Masters presented by Michaels® is a vibrant, open-air fine arts festival in the Downtown Disney area, held November 9, 2012 through November 11, 2012. Featuring award-winning artists, this world-renowned show is a highly anticipated annual event for Guests, artists, collectors and art lovers.

Discover fun for the entire family, including:

Dazzling displays of one-of-a-kind and limited-edition painting, photography, sculpture, jewelry and more
Hands-on activities for Guests of all ages and interests
Live musical performances
Unique shopping opportunities—from fine art to Disney collectibles

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Where the season meets the sea

November 6, 2012 By


Winter Wonderland On Ice
Christmas comes to life on a stage of ice, jewels and light as skaters dazzle and delight in this show-stopping, ice skating extravaganza. The other stars of the show are the towering fountains of water dancing on the lake and fireworks that light up the night sky after the last ice show of the evening. It’s a don’t-miss experience for the holidays that will take your breath away.

THE POLAR EXPRESS Experience
Now boarding! It’s a wondrous journey to the North Pole aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS. The beloved holiday classic comes to life as you and your family are immersed in the heart-warming story of a young boy’s thrilling ride into an enchanted world. The sights, sounds, and scents of the season surround you. From the moment the conductor calls “all aboard” to your arrival at the North Pole (where you’ll meet Santa Claus himself), THE POLAR EXPRESS Experience promises to create an unforgettable holiday memory.

Sea Of Trees
Take a walk through our wintery, watery wonderland and immerse yourself in a sea of holiday trees. Our glistening forest with over 100 trees sparkles to music and lights up the water… and, your eyes. As the lights literally dance to holiday classics, your heart will soar with wonder and delight at this truly awe-inspiring Christmas treat.

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY MICKEY

November 6, 2012 By

Oh boy! Mickey Mouse is one old rodent!
Walt Disney’s most famous cartoon creation turns 84 on the 18th of November.
Mickey’s first appearance with sound — and the first of his films to be distributed — was in “Steamboat Willie” on Nov. 18, 1928.
The falsetto-speaking mouse appeared in “Plane Crazy” six months prior, alongside Minnie, but in that feature he was as quiet as a, well, mouse.
Ub Iwerks was the main animator for both shorts as well as co-director with Walt Disney, who also provided the vocals for the star of the show (he handed over voice duties to Jimmy MacDonald in 1946 after he got too busy with his empire).

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Transformers: The 3D Ride

November 4, 2012 By

This has been sitting on the back burner for a while, Universal have finally announced they will be bringing Transformers the Ride to the Orlando Florida Universal Studios theme park. The news was announced Friday with an official video to go along with it. This action-packed ride will bring you face to face with Megatron as you dodge the Decepticons and fight to save mankind alongside Optimus Prime and the Autobots.

Embark on a daring adventure that redefines thrill rides. Transformers: The Ride-3D is an ultra-immersive sensory experience that puts you on the front lines of an intergalactic war between the Autobots and Decepticons. Fusing ground-breaking HD 3D media and Flight Simulation technology, this epic ride will make you lose sight of the difference between fiction and reality.

Universal Orlando
Transformers: The Ride-3D opens Summer 2013

Prepare for the greatest battle you’ll ever ride!

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From Florida Deluxe Villas

October 31, 2012 By

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Seaworld Spooktacular.

October 18, 2012 By

The Polar Express Experience

Holiday guests can take an exciting trip to the North Pole aboard The Polar Express Experience. SeaWorld’s Wild Arctic is transformed into the North Pole… and getting there is half the fun! The Polar Express Experience is based on the film from Warner Bros. Pictures and Shangri-La Entertainment, inspired by the beloved children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg about a doubting young boy who embarks on a journey of self-discovery during an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole on Christmas Eve.

The Polar Express Experience immerses passengers on a multi-sensory journey of special lighting, scent, sound and motion effects in classic scenes recreated from the movie. Upon arrival at the North Pole, discover a winter wonderland of holiday cheer and amazing animal encounters.

Winter Wonderland on Ice

This ice skating spectacular is back bringing Christmas to life at SeaWorld’s Bayside Stadium with towering water fountains, magnificent fireworks and talented skaters that are sure to dazzle and delight everyone this holiday season.

Clyde and Seamore’s Countdown to Christmas

The team of sea lions, Clyde and Seamore, joined by a few mischievous otters and a jolly walrus or two, are as lovable as ever in this all-new Christmas comedy.

A Sesame Street Christmas

In this musical production, the holidays have arrived, but Abby Cadabby doesn’t understand what all the fuss is about… she’s never heard of Christmas before. Elmo, Big Bird and other Sesame Street friends gather together to share with her the true spirit of the holiday. After the show, character meet-and-greets offer memory-making photo opportunities.

Shamu Christmas … Miracles

Shamu Stadium comes alive with bright lights and glowing candles as Christmas carols abound and Shamu splashes to celebrate the holiday season.

O Wondrous Night

This show highlights the greatest story “never” told with life-size puppets and live animals. The production will feature lots of singing with over 30 carols; and, special effects and lighting will delight guests.

Holiday Reflections: Fireworks and Fountain Finale

Expect to be dazzled by soaring fountains, sparkling lights and festive fireworks choreographed to favorite holiday music.

Special Holiday Opportunities

Santa’s Fireside Feast - This special dining experience for the whole family will thrill the little ones with its special guest — Santa! Enjoy an all-you-can-eat holiday feast and reserved seats to the O Wondrous Night show, plus a complimentary family photo. General park admission is required and not included in pricing. >Book online
Holiday Dinner at Sharks Underwater Grill – Dine in an unusual environment… surrounded by sharks! Guests will feast on special holiday fare. General park admission is required and not included in pricing. >Book online

All holiday experiences and shows are included with regular SeaWorld Orlando park admission. Of course, the best way to enjoy the holidays or any time of the year is with the SeaWorld annual pass, that includes discounts on food, beverages and merchandise, as well as complimentary parking.

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13 Fun Facts about Mickey’s Not-so-Scary Halloween Party

October 10, 2012 By


• 23 miles of parade route — that’s how far Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade will travel over the course of the season
• 2012 marks 18 fantastically fun years of Mickey’s Not-so-Scary Halloween Party
• 586,000 photos of guests – that’s the number of images that the Disney Photo Imaging team took during last year’s Halloween event season
• 190 individually-themed carved pumpkins adorn the balconies and windowsills of Main Street, U.S.A.
• More than 23,100 feet or about 4-1/4 miles of cable is installed for special lighting and sound effects that are part of the party’s Halloween entertainment
• A cast of 175, including performers, float drivers, costumers, cosmetologists, decorators and maintenance cast members, brings Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade to life
• 11 Disney characters are exclusive to Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade: Big Al, Captain Barbosa, Christopher Robin, Kanga and Roo, Shenzi, Banzai and Ed — the three hyenas from “The Lion King,” — plus three Hitch-Hiking Ghosts from the Haunted Mansion
• The Happy HalloWishes fireworks spectacular is narrated by the Ghost Host from the Haunted Mansion and features many of your favorite Disney Villains who go trick or treating in the night sky
• 999 Grim Grinning Ghosts enhance a not-too-spooky Halloween experience at the Haunted Mansion
• More than 215 tons of candy will be handed out to party guests during 23 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Parties
• 40 different kinds of brand-name candies, including Skittles, M&Ms and Kit Kats, are included in three trick-or-treat candy mixes offered during the parties
• Guests can visit 15 tasty treat locations including 2 treat trails with 3 times the candy (one in Frontierland and another that runs from the new Storybook Circus in New Fantasyland all the way to Tomorrowland)
• 0 Tricks and countless treats make Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party a memorable evening for all!

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Epcot 30th anniversary celebration

September 28, 2012 By


Walt Disney World will mark the 30th anniversary of its Epcot theme park on Oct. 1, 2012 and D23: The Official Disney Fan Club is preparing a unique celebration for its fans.
On Sunday, Sept. 30, 2012, D23’s Epcot 30th Anniversary Celebration will bring D23 Members back to a time touted as when “the 21st century begins”—those early Epcot years when guests first marveled at “Astuter Computers,” “Smellitzers,” and the novelty of “riding on sunshine,” and were awed by a massive geodesic sphere called Spaceship Earth.
The event will take place on the one day only from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. inside Epcot (Park admission is required and not included in the event ticket price). Each D23 Member may bring up to three guests.
There are two levels of D23 Member participation:
World Passport general admission is $65 per guest and includes:
Access to all presentations
A commemorative gift
Access to exclusive D23 merchandise
World Key level admission is $185 per guest and includes:
All features of the World Passport admission
Reserved seating for all presentations
A special dessert reception at 8 p.m. inside an exclusive Future World lounge
Exclusive meet-and-greet opportunity with Disney Legends and Epcot luminaries
Reception will also include screenings of rare film footage of Epcot’s early days
D23’s Epcot 30th Anniversary Celebration will offer a detailed look at the design, development, and evolution of Epcot ever presented by The Walt Disney Company and will include rare and never-before-seen artwork; film and video footage and photos; along with a number of pioneers of Epcot, including such Disney Imagineers, Legends, and Epcot luminaries as Marty Sklar (exclusive pre-taped presentation), Tony Baxter, Ron Schneider, Charlie Ridgway, Ron Logan, Bill Sullivan, Bob Garner, Jason Surrell, Jason Grandt, Alex Wright, Duncan Dickson, and Steve Taylor.
Presentations Include:
• Hooray for the 21st Century – Disney Legend and former Walt Disney Imagineering Principal Creative Executive Marty Sklar joins D23 guests via a virtual presentation, where we see and hear what it was like to work with Walt Disney on his original vision for an Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow. Along the way, learn about Marty’s favorite memories working on the EPCOT Center project with a team of passionate Imagineers.
• The Music of EPCOT Center – Some of Epcot’s most passionate fans agree that the park’s soundtrack has created one of its most lasting legacies that continue to help “makin’ memories” around the world. Join Disney historians and songwriters as we explore the incredible world of Epcot music, celebrating the talents of such Epcot songwriters and composers as Bob Moline, Richard M. and Robert B. Sherman, George Wilkins, Buddy Baker, X. Atencio, Peter Stougaard, Russell Brower, Edo Guidotti and others who have left a permanent musical mark on the park’s creative legacy. Along the way, hear stories about the recording sessions, learn about some fascinating alternate versions of some of your favorite melodies, and sing along to your favorite Epcot tunes!
• “We Can Do It!” – Disney Legends and EPCOT Center creators review the immense challenge that loomed ahead of them when bringing Epcot to reality in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Guests will hear stories of trips to foreign countries to secure participants in the World Showcase concept, what life was like inside the largest private construction project in the world, and how they readied its highly anticipated opening day.
• “We’ve Just Begun to Dream” – Join Disney Legend Ron Logan and other key Disney entertainment veterans as they reminisce about the official EPCOT Center opening festivities that remain among the most elaborate Disney has ever staged. This presentation will include rare footage from the grand openings of various Future World and World Showcase pavilions, which were held throughout October 1982. 

• “Makin’ Memories: Epcot on Film” – Join former Disney Imagineer Bob Garner and Disney author and historian Tim O’Day as they cast a “Magic Eye” on the marvelous world of Epcot on film. Bob was closely involved in the creation of film documentation and production at Epcot, including special video elements of Future World and World Showcase pavilions and such promotional films as EPCOT Center: The Opening Celebration.
• “Looking Back at Tomorrow” – Few Epcot visitors, even its most avid fans, realize The Land pavilion was almost called “Harvest Tomorrow” or that Figment was slated to co-host an “Images & Imagination” pavilion with “Professor Marvel.” With recently discovered materials from the Walt Disney Archives, join Disney archivists as they examine how the “dreamers and doers” developed favorite Epcot attractions of the past including Horizons, Journey into Imagination, Kitchen Kabaret, World of Motion, the Astuter Computer Revue, and the original Universe of Energy.
• “The EPCOT Center That Never Was” – Using rare concept artwork, guests will glimpse what it was like to design Epcot with Walt Disney Imagineering Senior Vice President Tony Baxter, designer and producer for several beloved Epcot pavilions, and explore early versions of Epcot attractions that never made it off the drawing board.
• “Imagineering Epcot: An Extra Perceptive Close-up Of Things – Fans of wall-to-wall carpeting and leapfrog fountains unite! Disney Imagineers Jason Surrell, Jason Grandt, and Alex Wright return with a humorous exploration of the details that make Epcot so unique. From miniature gardens to massive buildings (and every international food and beverage offering in between), they’ll show what makes Future World and World Showcase like no place else on earth.
“When Epcot opened in 1982 it was a monumental achievement and its opening was an unforgettable moment for Disney fans everywhere,” says Steven Clark, head of D23. “We know our members have a deep passion for this park, and we’re producing a memorable experience that lets our members relive some of their favorite Epcot shows and attractions of the past while experiencing the incredible Epcot legacy that continues today.”

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Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom

September 20, 2012 By

Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom is an interactive game attraction for the Magic Kingdom. The game focuses on Merlin recruiting park guests as new apprentice sorcerers and sending them out to battle various Disney villains, recruited by Hades, throughout the park’s themed lands (except Tomorrowland) using special spell cards.

Gameplay
When starting the game, guests are given a specialized park map pointing out various locations for the game, along with a Sorcerer Key card that activates the game screens and tracks the guests’ progress and a set of Spell Cards. Locations included in the paper maps consist of every land except for Tomorrowland. The main play areas are Magic Portals, which Merlin opens up to allow you to interact with the characters and fight the villains. To activate a Magic Portal, tapping or scanning your Key card at a keyhole will activate the Magic Portal screen. The spell cards hold various attacks of differing strengths used to fight the villains.
As the screens are all functionally similar, a computer algorithm points guests to whichever nearby screen might be open at the moment upon completing a Magic Portal task. This is a means to prevent crowding at the Portals.

Story
Starting off at the Main Street Firehouse, Merlin welcomes park guests to his special hideout, teaches them the basics of the game with Portal activation and spell card usage and begins to tell the story. Hades, bored with the nothingness of the Underworld, is looking for a new summer home with the Magic Kingdom park looking like an ideal spot, though Merlin stands in his way. He sends Pain and Panic to Merlin’s home to steal the Crystal of the Magic Kingdom (a powerful artifact that keeps evil forces in check at the park), but they end up awakening Merlin in the process. In a brief scuffle, the crystal is shattered into several pieces, four of which are scattered to different locations throughout the park. Annoyed, Hades decides to call upon a team of villains to help retrieve the crystal shards for him, including Yzma, Jafar, Scar, Maleficent, Ursula, Ratcliffe, Dr. Facilier and Cruella de Vil.

Main Street USA
Main Street only features Cruella DeVil as a villain, though it is also home to Sorcerer Training with Merlin at the Firehouse.

Adventure land
Three villains are located in Adventure land: Yzma, Jafar and Scar.

Fantasyland
Two villains are featured in this land: Ursula and Maleficent.

Cards
Spell cards in the game are divided into nine different spell classes which includes: Toy, Machine, Animal, Fairy, Hero, Princess, Warrior, Monster and Mystic. A card’s rarity is classified by the sign in the bottom left corner, right above the number out of 70. Although Disney confirmed there are only 70, there seem to be more because of these symbols, as told by other sources. A planet means the card is common, a cresent moon means uncommon, a star is rare, a double star is double rare and a lightning bolt means super rare.
Cards 61-70 started to be re-distributed via booster packs beginning in August of 2012. These booster packs feature 7 cards, tokens and one of four gameboards for a home version of the game.

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Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at the Magic Kingdom® Park begins September 11

September 12, 2012 By

Ghouls and goblins gather at the Magic Kingdom® Park for a bewitching Halloween spooktacular during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party beginning September 11. A pumpkin-orange glow and light fog along with ghostly silhouettes dancing atop the roofs of Main Street, U.S.A create lots of delight and not so much fright during this family-friendly, after-hours party. Your Guests are invited to dress up in favorite Halloween costumes for trick or treating and more from 7 p.m. to 12 a.m. for 23 select nights.

In addition to trick-or-treating, meet and greets with Disney characters donning Halloween costumes, and entertainment unique to

Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, many popular Magic Kingdom® Park attractions – including, of course, The Haunted Mansion – are available to experience (but beware of hitchhiking ghosts). Entertainment features the twice nightly “Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade” led by the infamous Headless Horseman, followed by “HalloWishes,” a green and orange fireworks display complete with Disney villains.

New This Year! The party will feature something extra special for guests viewing the parade from Main Street, U.S.A. This will be the location of a new pre-parade activity, the Not-So-Scary Street Jam!, which will take place after the Headless Horseman passes and before the “Boo-To-You Parade” begins. Have your Guests visit this site once they have purchased their event tickets and practice their dance skills for the street jam! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u3qBOyFxRdQ

 

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Night of Joy

September 3, 2012 By

Once again it’s almost time for Disney’s Night of Joy event! This contemporary Christian music festival takes theme park. During this contemporary Christian music festival, Guests can delight in live performances by music superstars across a variety of genres—including rock, pop and gospel.

Mark your calendars for a weekend of outstanding entertainment on September 7, 2012 and September 8, 2012. Enjoy performances from a variety of Christian artists, including:

Performing Friday, September 7, 2012:
Casting Crowns
Chris Tomlin
NEEDTOBREATHE
RED
Francesca Battistelli
Brandon Heath
Royal Tailor
Disciple

Performing Saturday, September 8, 2012:
MercyMe
Third Day
Kutless
Chris August
LeCrae
Yolanda Adams
Thousand Foot Krutch
Dara Maclean

From soulful, inspiring singers to hard-hitting, high-energy rockers, Night of Joy offers a variety of entertainment that’s sure to lift your spirits.

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Mickey’s (Not-So-Scary) Halloween Party

August 6, 2012 By


Ask us about purchasing your Disney tickets here!

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Disney World’s Rider Switch Program

July 13, 2012 By

Don’t let traveling with a toddler or infant keep you from enjoying some of the best attractions Disney World has to offer, use the rider switch program to explore some of Disney’s most thrilling rides. The rider switch program works best at rides that have a long line and have a height restriction — or are just too scary for your little one.

Consider using the rider switch if you want to enjoy roller coasters like Space Mountain or Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. The rider switch program isn’t just for roller coasters — Snow White’s Scary Adventures will terrify most small children, so ask for a pass if there is a long line.

How it Works: A child switch or rider switch pass allows you to just wait in line once — so Dad can wait in line and then enjoy Expedition Everest while Mom watches the little ones. Once Dad has enjoyed the ride, Mom can use a the rider switch pass just like a Fastpass, and breeze to the front of the line.

Who can use the rider switch program: Anyone with a child or dependent adult who is unable to ride an attraction like Soarin’, Splash Mountain or the Tower of Terror. At least two adults or responsible parties are required to utilize the rider switch program — one to experience the attraction and one to wait with the child.

How to Use the rider switch program: Approach the cast member at the Fastpass or main entrance of the attraction you want to ride. Some rides will do a rider switch even though they do not have a Fastpass option. Let the cast member know you want to do a rider switch, and you will be issued a special paper ticket. The first rider will need to wait in the line, but the second rider will not.

Warning: You must have all parties present to qualify for a rider switch ticket — at least one child and two responsible adults. If all parties are not present, you won’t be issued a pass.
Tips:

*You can still use a Fastpass with the child switch program — just show up at the time on the Fastpass and let the ride attendant know you need to make a switch.
*Look for play or shopping areas to explore while you wait for your turn to ride, or use the waiting time to allow your child to take a quick nap.

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Disney Fast Pass

July 12, 2012 By

1. Once you’ve decided to use the Fastpass system for an attraction, go to the bank of Fastpass machines near that attraction’s entrance. Insert your admission ticket, and the machine will spit out a Fastpass ticket indicating the time you need to return.
2. You have a one-hour window. For example, the Fastpass may read “Please return anytime between 1:10 p.m. and 2:10 p.m.” Go enjoy other things in the park. Return to the Fastpass line at the attraction during the designated time.
3. A cast member (Disney speak for employee) will check your Fastpass before allowing you into the line. DON’T DISCARD YOUR FASTPASS TICKET! At many of the attractions, a second cast member will re-check your Fastpass before letting you board the ride. (This prevents scofflaws from sneaking from the standby line into the Fastpass line.)
4. You can’t get another Fastpass for any attraction until it’s time for you to return for the first attraction OR two hours have passed since you obtained the first Fastpass (whichever comes first).
Fastpass tips
• The most important tip is the same as before Fastpass: plan ahead and get to the parks early–particularly during peak periods. You’ll be able to get Fastpasses with quick return times for the most popular attractions right away, and you’ll probably be able to walk onto some attractions as well. Later in the day, when the Fastpasses are gone and the lines have swelled up to two hours, go hang out by your hotel pool with a frozen drink.
• To save time and energy, give the quickest one or two members of your touring group all of your admission passes and have them get the Fastpasses. You can order their meals or start some other activity while they’re traveling back and forth across the park.
• Look at the posted standby line time. If it’s just a few minutes, it’s probably not worth wasting a Fastpass. Just wait in the regular line and use Fastpass later for a more crowded attraction. On less busy days, you may only need to use Fastpass once or twice, if at all.
• Look at the posted Fastpass return time. There are signs at the entrance of all Fastpass-enabled attractions that indicate the current return times. If it’s much later in the day and you’re planning to go somewhere else, you may want to skip the Fastpass. Remember, you can’t get another Fastpass until it’s time for you to return for the first attraction (or two hours have lapsed).
• Ask cast members if any Fastpass machines are distributing “Surprise” Fastpasses. These bonus tickets, given at the same time as a regular Fastpass, will allow you to skip the line for a second attraction.
• Look at the posted Fastpass return time and the standby line time. If it looks close, you may be able to get a Fastpass, wait in the standby line, then get back in the Fastpass line for an immediate re-ride.
• Once you get a Fastpass for later in the day, try not to plan an itinerary that will have you crisscrossing the park. The time you save from Fastpass may be wasted walking all over the park.

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Six more ways to eat healthier at theme parks this summer

July 12, 2012 By

1. Pack lunches to bring with you to the park. You won’t have to wait on line for food, can eat exactly what you want and you’ll save big bucks.
2. Bring reusable water bottles and forgo sugar-laden drinks. Pat yourselves on the back for traveling greener and avoiding plastic water bottles. The kids can turn their bottles into instant souvenirs by slapping stickers on them.
3. Skip kids’ meals entirely and share an adult portion with your child or divide an adult portion between two kids.
4. Make reservations for dinner at a “sit down” restaurant in the park where you have more healthy options to choose from. Order a half portion from an adult menu for the kids. Use vacation to encourage them to try new foods!
5. Opt to stay someplace where you have a kitchen or at least a fridge so you can prepare a healthy breakfast-cereal and milk, yoghurt, fruit, etc, rather than calorie-laden pastries or doughnuts.
6. Pack your own snacks so when the kids-and you-get the munchies you can satisfy your cravings without cotton candy, giant lollipops or caramel apples.

Let’s hear it for Mickey Mouse.
Order a kid’s meal at a Disney park and you get apples instead of fries, (unless you ask for fries), and low-fat milk rather than sugary soda. Of the more than 12 million kids meals served last year at Disney Parks and Resorts in the U.S., parents stuck with the healthier options six out of 10 times. Now Disney will enhance these efforts by further reducing sodium in kids’ meals and introducing new well-balanced kids’ breakfast meals.

This is all part of a broader initiative just announced that makes Disney the first major media company to introduce new standards for food advertising on programming targeting kids and families.

We all know the dismal childhood obesity statistics: 1 in 3 children are overweight or obese. But whether a child is overweight or not, it’s certainly not healthy to eat a steady diet of fried and fat-laden foods on vacation.

As we all head to theme parks this summer, let’s consider how we might eat healthier while we’re there. Sure you can still get churros, burgers, chicken fingers and fries and all the ice cream you want at theme parks, but you can also get fresh salmon and rotisserie chicken at LEGOLAND Florida, where there is an entire new exhibit, complete with LEGO characters about farming and where our food comes. At Sea World Orlando’s Sharks Underwater Grill, there’s a steak kabob on the kid’s menu.

Nearby at Downtown Disney, Kids chowing down at Wolfgang Puck Cafe can choose California rolls made from ham and cheese while the Italian restaurant Portobello offers whole-wheat cheese pizza and the kids’ menu at Fulton’s Crab House includes crab legs and fresh fish.

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Florida Deluxe Villas new office.

July 6, 2012 By
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Happy 4th of July America

July 4, 2012 By

Happy 4th of July to all our friends and guest.
May your 4th sparkly at bright as the fireworks.

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Downtown Disney’s CARS weekend.

May 31, 2012 By

Lots of fun will rev up at Downtown Disney in two weeks — Saturday and Sunday, June 2 & 3, 2012 — as classic cars meet the car stars from Disney-Pixar’s animated motion picture “Cars 2.” Lightning McQueen, pal Mater and master British spy Finn McMissile are racing into town for meet and greets during the second annual two-day Car Masters Weekend. Car fans are sure to delight in a family-friendly weekend devoted to all things cars, that includes activities from 9:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. each day at Downtown Disney’s West Side:

More than 100 classic muscle cars are expected to line the Downtown Disney promenade as the local Muscle Car Network of Cental Florida displays their muscle and exotic cars for families and judges to view. Guest will have the chance to vote on their favorite car to win the “People’s Choice” and “Kid’s Choice” awards.
Automotive designer, Chip Foose, will make special appearances as one of the car show’s guest judges. Foose contributed to the design of Ramone in the Disney-Pixar “Cars” film, will also be on-hand for a signing of his Cars-inspired images, including Doc Hudson, Lightning McQueen, Flo, Ramone and Mater. Ridemakerz
Put the pedal to the metal with Ridemakerz model cars.
Vehicles from the new Exotic Driving Experience at Walt Disney World Speedway will be on display.
Cars fans can purchase tickets and cool off at the AMC Downtown Disney 24 Theatres for an all-day movie marathon featuring the 2006 Disney-Pixar “Cars” and 2011 release “Cars 2″ films.
General Motors will display their latest Chevrolet models, including the Corvette Grand Sport, Camaro Convertible and the Volt.
Disney face painters and tattoo artists will be on hand with special cars-themed designs. Also, special “Cars” merchandise will be available throughout

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New Fantasyland® Grand Opening Set for December 6, 2012, at the Magic Kingdom® Park at Walt Disney World® Resort!

May 24, 2012 By

The grand opening for the New Fantasyland® expansion at Magic Kingdom® Park at Walt Disney World® Resort will take place on December 6, 2012! Attractions included in this opening are Under the Sea ~ Journey of The Little Mermaid, Be Our Guest Restaurant, Enchanted Tales with Belle, Ariel’s Grotto, Gaston’s Tavern and Bonjour! Village Gifts.

Previews of these attractions will begin earlier in mid November.

As previously planned, the New Fantasyland® expansion will continue with the opening of Princess Fairytale Hall in 2013 and the debut of a new Disney “mountain” in the form of the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train in 2014.

The Storybook Circus section of the New Fantasyland® expansion, which includes Barnstormer – Starring the Great Goofini, the Casey Jr. Splash & Soak Station, and Dumbo the Flying Elephant, opened to Guests in July.

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Moomin Mansion

May 10, 2012 By

Gorgeous 2 bed town home located next to the fantastic lazy river, located at Fantasy World

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Star Wars Weekends

May 8, 2012 By


Star Wars Weekends is an annual special event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park that celebrates the legendary Star Wars Saga and the animated television series, Star Wars: The Clone Wars. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday of each weekend, you can join celebrities and characters for special shows, panels, presentations and more!
The Return of Star Tours
Blast into the universe of Star Wars like never before—in 3-D! Star Tours—The Adventures Continue takes Jedi from Tatooine to Coruscant and beyond. With several possible missions, you never know where the Force may take you.

Celebrity Autographs
Have a memento signed by Star Wars celebrities attending the event! A Disney’s FASTPASS ensures your place in line at the celebrity autograph kiosk outside the Front Gate entrance. Grab a FASTPASS before the park opens, as quantities are extremely limited and are issued on a first-come, first-served basis. Once FASTPASS tickets have been distributed, stand-by tickets may be issued, although stand-by tickets do not guarantee an autograph.

Train, You Must
Kids under 12 can hone their light saber skills and prepare to do battle with Darth Vader himself at the Jedi Training Academy. And in the Padawan Mind Challenge, they can test their wits before the Jedi Council.

Hyperspace Hoopla!
At the end of each day, let loose with music, comedy and dancing at the Hyperspace Hoopla! With so many Ewoks, Wookiees, stormtroopers, Jawas and otherworldly creatures, young Jedi and their parents would be wise to have their cameras ready.

Carbon-Freeze Me
Coming this year to Star Wars Weekends at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, you’ll have the opportunity to relive the famous carbon freezing scene from The Empire Strikes Back with the “Carbon-Freeze Me” experience. This new experience was created especially for Disney Parks, and is part of our “D-Tech Me” line that uses technology to take personalization to a whole new level.
Using state-of-the-art imaging technology, this experience casts your likeness as a three-dimensional, eight-inch figurine. At the “Carbon Freezing Chamber” (located adjacent to The American Idol Experience), several cameras will capture multiple angles of your face. The experience will officially open on Friday May 18 with the launch of Star Wars Weekends.

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Evelyn’s Dream, Featured home of the week

April 27, 2012 By

Beautiful town home located in Windsor Palms. Click Here to view this home.

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Star Wars Weekends at Disney

April 27, 2012 By

Star Wars weekends are back at Disney.
Over 50 character encounters from the entire saga, you will find heroes and villains from throughout the galaxy.
Every Friday to Sunday May 18th to June 10th

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April Vacations

April 19, 2012 By

Exciting family and group vacations often include travel plans to the greater Orlando Disney area in Florida. There’s so much to see and do during an April vacation in Orlando! The weather is already warm enough to swim every day, or to enjoy the delights of an area water park. A scent of oranges seems to permeate the air as winter-weary travelers drink in the sheer beauty of this place!
Spring Break vacations
Although college and school Spring Break vacations may vary, April is a month of heavy crowds in the Orlando Disney area. That’s one of the reasons many vacationers think about getting away from the crowds by renting a vacation villa.
Greater Orlando has many high quality hotel rooms for vacationers, but anyone who’s ever spent a few days during a peak vacation period knows that many of these hotels hum day and night with activity. For example, the Disney Resort alone has 33,000 hotel rooms—and few people visit Disney alone! The numbers of people arriving and departing make finding a “quiet spot” quite challenging!
Renting a villa during vacation makes all the difference. One recent traveler said, “I live an active life and love to enjoy a vacation. But when I travel to Orlando, I want my days filled with theme parks and my nights filled with family and a home-cooked meal. We won’t rent a Disney area hotel again after finding a lovely little home away from home!”
How to rent a Disney area vacation villa
Florida Deluxe Villas takes all the guess-work out of identifying, reserving and preparing a safe haven for families, friends, or business travelers visiting the Disney area.
Because Florida Deluxe Villas wants to be match every guest’s requirements as specifically as possible, and because management values honesty and integrity in all communications and interactions, guests think of Florida Deluxe Villas as their Orlando area vacation spot. Many guests request the same villa every time they travel.
How to buy your own Disney area villa
Real estate investors understand the importance of managing a prime rental property. Owning a Disney area villa, for personal enjoyment or investment purposes, can make great financial sense with the inclusion of the right property manager.
Florida Deluxe Villas helps buyers choose the right property first. If the buyer plans to rent out the property for any portion of the year or on a continuous basis, Florida Deluxe Villa’s team makes the difference!
Next year, during an April vacation, new buyers know that a perfectly appointed and managed slice of Orlando area real estate awaits—without the long lines and constant activity of hotel life.

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Things To Do in Florida

December 16, 2011 By

There is no doubt that when it comes to an ideal location to rent a vacation condo within the U.S., or just enjoy perfect sunny weather and out-of-this-world attractions, Florida is near the top of the list. It rarely ever experiences winter frost, with average temperatures ranging in the upper 80’s in the summer, and the 60’s in the fall and winter.

The city of Orlando is a prime vacation destination, with the main attractions being the numerous ever expanding theme parks. The biggest is the great Disney vacation getaway, Walt Disney World Resort, which includes the Magic Kingdom, the Animal Kingdom, Downtown Disney, Disney’s Boardwalk, Epcot’s International Flower and Garden Festival, and two of the biggest water parks in the world.

When you’re done with your Disney vacation, to the North you’ll find Universal Studios Plaza, featuring the Islands of Adventure, which is known for its innovative and thrilling roller coaster rides, including Jurassic Park River Adventure, Incredible Hulk Coaster, Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man and Storm Force Acceleration. There is also the Fun Spot Action Park with its 10,000-square-feet of arcade games, a 100-foot Ferris wheel, bumper boats and four go-cart racing tracks.

Then there’s Anheuser-Busch’s Seaworld with its extravagant marine exhibits and water shows. There is the Discovery Cove, where you can swim with marine life, including Dolphins. Wekiwa Springs has thousands of acres of natural oasis and offers hiking, fishing, canoeing, snorkeling, horseback riding, skydiving, swimming and sunbathing. The area is rich with a variety of wildlife, ranging from gray foxes deer to manatees.

Known for its spectacular theme parks, Orlando is also home to an assortment of resorts and a city life saturated with activities and attractions. The downtown area boasts of historic buildings and fine architecture, gardens, art galleries, famous world-class museums, and performing art venues. Outdoor recreation and cultural treasures are scattered throughout Baldwin Park, Thornton Park, Loch Haven Park and Winter Park. There are nine major shopping malls, numerous antique shops and fleas markets. In the daytime, there are a variety of sporting opportunities from golf and tennis to swimming and basketball. Whether you’re a spectator of professional sports or a participant, there’s something for the athlete in everyone. At night, the city turns into a dazzling array of restaurants, bars and nightclubs.

Because Florida offers such an array of attractions and events, it’s simply not possible to experience everything in just a few short days, or even a week. New residential developments, villas and condo rentals are expanding on an annual basis, and bargain condo rentals are not at all hard to find. Sometimes tourists just grow so attached, irresistibly allured by the sights, the malls and shopping centers or the rich artistic and cultural heritage, that they decide to either become permanent residents or vacation condo renters. Considering there’s something for everyone, whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic getaway, or a family looking for a long fun-filled vacation, Florida is the perfect location.

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Disney Area Attractions

December 15, 2011 By

Few places come close to the breadth and diversity of attraction in the Orlando, Florida area. Whether traveling with children, parents, a spouse, or on spring break, central Florida offers premiere entertainment for all, exceptional choices for the vacation condo and enough to satisfy the pickiest of personalities. No longer is the area synonymous with pixie dust alone, as golfing, award winning dining, shows, sports, theme parks, and food, wine, garden and Mardi Gras festivals promise unmatched excitement and lifelong memories.

When traveling to the Disney vacation area, peruse condo rentals early for exceptional rates and quality during your stay. While there are times of the year considered low season in the central Florida area, an attractions packed calendar keeps vacationers streaming to Orlando and the surrounding region regularly.

Fans of the Walt Disney World Theme Park will find a wealth of attractions to explore and occasions for fun of all ages. Disney offers six distinct theme parks and opportunities for everything from boating and fishing to celebrity concerts, spa treatments, princess makeovers and more. Spring is home to the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival where the nation’s top designers flock to demonstrate the ins and outs of garden planning and design. In the fall, the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival features wine and culinary delights from around the world for the adventuresome palate. Finally, the theme park hosts a Halloween Party, Christmas Party, Princess Marathon, Summer Concert Series and host of other attractions, making it festive no matter the time of year you chose to plan your Disney vacation.

Universal Studios is home to arguably the most talked about Mardi Gras festival outside of New Orleans. Crammed full of big name concerts, parades, and authentic Cajun eats, the Universal Studios Orlando Mardi Gras festival promises Big Easy fun for the whole family. For those who go big on Halloween, the park’s critically acclaimed Halloween Horror Nights breaks the mold when it comes to nightmarish fun. For those traveling with younger ones, or those simply young at heart, Universal Studios offers a wealth of theme park rides, including what some are calling the best theme park ride in America at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

For an awe inspiring event, consider the Holy Land Experience, a museum and living exhibit based on Israel in the 1st century. Owned by the Trinity Broadcast Network, it’s considered by many to be a wonderful experience for Christians. Among its exhibits are a replica of the Dead Sea Qumran Caves, the Last Supper and a boat modeled after another found in the Sea of Galilee, dating back to the times of Jesus.

Whether venturing to the area for a bit of professional sports, theme park family excitement, or for five star wining and dining, enjoyment is sure to be had. The right vacation condo is available whether you are traveling alone, with a few friends, or a large family. Since condo rentals can fill up quick, begin your search today.

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Vacationing in the Orlando Area

December 15, 2011 By

Nostalgia is big today. Notice how many ’50s diners have sprung up along the highways and byways, how many trolleys have been turned into roadside diners, and how many inns are built to resemble Tara. When people plan a vacation to get away from the stress of life today, they often go back in time to their childhoods. What says childhood better than Disney? Perhaps people do need to time travel a little to a time when the only stress in life was keeping their little brother away from their Mouseketeer ears. Planning a Disney vacation in or near Orlando, Florida would be the perfect escape.

Another thing that says stress-free is vacation villas. Orlando has some exquisite architecture, along with enjoying a lifestyle found only in Florida. Laid-back, easy-going and polite, renting villas in this area is like stepping into another world. No hurly-burly hustle and bustle, just slow warm days amid the fun and laughter that can only be found in a Disney vacation. No worries, no deadlines, no one breathing down your neck will be allowed here so you can charge the batteries, give the mind a rest and just plain have fun.

While planning to see all that Disney has to offer, and then some, keep in mind that concierge services come with vacation villas. No worries about forgetting the baby’s stroller. They have it covered. Forgot the golf clubs? They have it covered. Perhaps not knowing where to begin could be answered with these services by obtaining tickets to the theme parks, renting boats, making reservations for dinner while you’re enjoying the parks, setting up villa rentals for friends you’ve convinced to join the fun. Not doing-it-yourself says stress free best, perhaps, and just one more thing to love about a vacation spot here.

Of course, it can be stressful deciding what to see first among the many, many attractions, events and things to do in the Orlando area. Don’t let this happen to you, because you’re here to relax. If it’s necessary to extend your holiday in order to see and do everything, don’t let it bother you, because there’s plenty of time. All that is necessary is to let your concierge service know and they’ll take care of the rest. Let the sunshine, the water, the fun and the laughter ease the worries away – villa rentals in Florida tend to have that effect.

Life today is hard enough to make people look back in wonder at simpler days and wish them here again. That’s possible with a Disney vacation in Orlando. Allowing the sun and the water, the palm trees and cool breezes to ease away the troubles is worth a trip to Disney.

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