 |
|
Posts Tagged ‘Florida’
Friday, January 20th, 2012
They may not have the strength and grace of killer whales, or the agility and looks of dolphins, but manatees are stealing the show at Homosassa Springs in Citrus County, Florida.
An upclose look at a manatee underwater at the springs of Crystal River (Photo by NaluPhoto, iStockphoto.com)
For families who want to enjoy nature at its best, a nature wonderland is hidden behind Orlando’s amusement parks. There is another Florida, a nature-lover’s Florida. Our latest trip took us to the manatees’ home turf, a far cry from a modern-day aquarium. My daughter and I aimed our compass south to Florida’s west central coast line and the Gulf of Mexico, and it is here in Citrus County that we met one of the most formidable aquatic mammals.
How to Swim with Manatees
Our days started early in the morning, as this is the perfect time to snorkel with the manatees before they get tired of visitors. We boarded a pontoon boat with one of the few female captains in the area, Traci Wood from Native Vacations. Having spotted two manatees just below the water, Captain Traci stopped the boat as the duo slowly glided towards us. They used their paddle-like tails to propell themselves up and down and, steering with their flippers, to gracefully move their 12-foot-long bodies through the water. Our boat was soon surrounded by this gentle species.
Soon we resumed our journey. Within a few minutes Captain Traci stopped the boat again and we were given instructions. Whatever you do, she said — and it doesn’t matter how excited you are — remember the three golden rules: minimize splash noise; act with very slow movements; and when you do touch one of these friendly, gentle gray giants on the back or stomach, never touch with more than one hand at a time. Two hands are illegal. The Endangered Species Act forbids touching a manatee unless it touches you first, and they will let you know. The rules are strict in Homosassa, and the protection of this endangered species is taken very seriously. There is absolutely no chasing, riding or harassing the manatees. But these rules won’t diminish your experience in the least bit. Most of Homosassa manatees are very social and will come to you.
In Florida, waking up one of these 2,000-pound sleeping beauties will cost you a whopping fine, but it is perfectly legal to snorkel or swim with these playful, inquisitive kids of the deep when they are awake and trying to make your acquaintance.
At Three Sisters Springs, very slowly we entered the water, trying not to disturb the manatees and also trying to keep down the amount of sediment rising from the bottom of the river. Upon our descent, some of the manatees were still sleeping while others were slow-paddling around.
Swimming with the manatees is not at all difficult or intimidating. There were children younger than my daughter, Ilse (who is 10), as well as seniors in the water. There was an abundant feeling of energy and curiosity among us all.
A manatee snacking on water lettuce (Photo by Bel Kembach)
About Manatees
A manatee is very big, measuring 10 to 15 feet and weighing one ton, although some larger than 12 feet and weighing as much as 3,500 pounds have been recorded in Florida. They devour over four to nine percent of their body weight each day (200 pounds of greens) by eating five to eight hours daily to maintain their beautiful rotund shape. They’re strictly herbivores, but they eat a great variety of aquatic plant species, including water hyacinth, hydrilla and water lettuce. Much to our surprise this official marine mammal of Florida is also nearsighted.
Manatees are wild, although when looking at one nose-to-nose you’ll have second thoughts about just how wild they are. They turned over and bared their bellies for us to rub, and swam alongside and nibbled at us.
What to Do on Land
Since not all visitors want to get nose-to-nose with the manatees, non- swimmers can also view these endangered mammals at Homosassa Springs State Wildlife Park. The park provides refuge for captive-born manatees and is a halfway house for rehabilitating those who will be returned to the wild. Some manatees that have been injured or orphaned will spend their lives in the park since they are unable to survive in the wild. The park also serves as a research and observation center, offering three daily educational programs to the public.
The park also showcases an impressive menagerie of native Florida wildlife including alligators, birds, and bears. It is located at the headwaters of the crystal clear Homosassa River, a natural spring that gushes forth millions of gallons of fresh water per hour.
Bel’s daughter, Ilse, posing at the Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park (Photo by Bel Kembach)
When and Where to Go
From December to March, groups of manatees escape the cold winter ocean and bask in the warm waters near power plants and coastal springs that stay about 72F degrees year-round. Snorkelers, divers and swimmers come from all over the world for a chance to swim or interact with the shy, docile West Indian manatee in its natural environment. Numerous dive sites, inland springs, good underwater visibility, calm water, and its wintering manatee population have made Citrus County a popular destination for nature lovers.
Abundant plant life makes the area an ideal playground for the manatees, who arrive every year by the hundreds to find warmth, food and maybe, just maybe, to visit us, the curious humans. The area is also safe for these endangered mammals whose lives are often cut short by environmental factors and fatal encounters with speeding watercraft.
Crystal River is the only place in the world for snorkelers to swim with the West Indian manatee in relatively clear water. Citrus County and Crystal River is less than a 1.5-hour drive from Orlando, Tampa or Daytona. Visit the Citrus County Visitors & Convention Bureau website to learn more about the area.
Where to Stay
I recommend staying at the Plantation Golf Resort & Spa for its lovely accommodations and guided wildlife excursions. It is an eco-friendly resort and proud member of the Green Hotels Association and Eco Friendly Hotels Worldwide. This hotel is perfectly located to view the manatees daily.
Why to Go
Once you have swam next to a mother manatee and her newborn calf in the wild, it is inconceivable that anyone could hurt them. Like many visitors, my daughter and I left with this place with unforgettable memories and became avid supporters of protecting and preserving these friendly, docile creatures for generations to come. We believe there is hope that the manatee may yet be saved from extinction, but the public needs to become aware of the problem. These gentle giants are so impressive in their size and manner; it is difficult not to fall in love with them. Truth is, swimming with manatees is a life altering experience.
How to Help
Your family can help manatee conservation efforts! Adopt a manatee for just $25 through the Save a Manatee Club. Ask your children to choose from a list of adoptable manatees and select those that match your family members’ personalities.
Would you swim with manatees if given the chance? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Professor Bel Kambach teaches Ecotourism and the Environment at St. Cloud State University in Minnesota and brings all her Ecotourism students to teach a lesson in conservation to her daughter’s school’s Saving Endangered Species program. Bel can be reached via her blog, Bel Explores, on the Bel Explores Facebook page, or on Twitter at @BelExplores.
You might also like:
• Favorite Family-Friendly Nature Spots in California
• 5 Safety Tips for Camping with Kids
• Roar & Snore Campout at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park
• The Travel Mama’s Guide to Orlando & Kissimmee with Kids
Tags: children, Citrus County, Crystal River, Florida, Homosassa, leg, nature, Plantation Inn Golf Resort, swim with manatees
Posted in Family Vacations | 9 Comments »
Thursday, December 1st, 2011
I knew beautiful holiday decorations awaited us at the Gaylord Palms Resort in Orlando, Florida. I was surprised, however, by how many festive activities were available to guests. In addition to the DreamWorks Experience, here are some of the fun must-dos on a visit to this family-friendly resort during the Christmas season.
View from our Gaylord Palms hotel room
Look for polar bears.
When you check in, you will receive a “Polar Bear Pursuit Hunt” pamphlet to help you find Coca-Cola bears hidden throughout the property. The pamphlet gives hints where to find the polar bears if you get frustrated. There are also 10 hidden bonus bears. Once you find all the bears, submit your answers online to be entered into a drawing for a prize. The bears are hidden all over the place so it took us all three days of our trip to find them.
This activity was a great distraction for my family! My husband and I have children that will hike for miles in the forest but complain about walking from the car into the grocery store. As we wandered the expansive property each day, my children were too busy looking for polar bears to complain about their feet hurting or ask how much longer till we get there. We found all 10 polar bears and five of the bonus bears during our visit.
A polar bear find
Watch a show.
There is a stage set up in the middle of the property where four different free shows are performed several times daily. The shows begin around noon and are performed off and on until around 10 pm. If you are staying in a room that overlooks the atrium, you will hear each show. Though we could hear the shows throughout the day while we were in our room behind the stage, it wasn’t distracting once we got used to it.
My favorite activity by far was watching the Luminescence Live Musical Review. The band plays music that will be familiar to you if you are a fan of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. While the live music is playing you are treated to acrobats by a pair of aerialists. Arrive early to snag a seat in chairs or tables or you can just pick a spot on the stairs. We sat on the stairs and felt like we had a great view of the show. The stage is near Java Coast and Haagen-Dazs so you could grab a snack to eat while you watch.
Luminescence Live Musical Review
Tell Santa what you want for Christmas.
Santa is set up in his own little area of the property where you can tell him what you want for Christmas and get your picture taken. Each time we walked by, Santa was available and the line was short. Packages start around $20.
Green chocolate fountain at Shrekfeast character breakfast
Have breakfast with Shrek and his pals.
Each family member has a chance to become an honorary ogre at the Shrekfeast character breakfast. When you walk into Villa de Flora to be seated, you will pass a huge buffet area with many choices. The Town Criers will stop by and let you know what to expect. Children are given a menu that has an ogre oath and activities for them to complete while they eat. My kids, however, were too distracted by frequent visits from Shrek, Princess Fiona, and Puss in Boots. They were disappointed to miss Donkey, but apparently he was in the kitchen!
Food choices range from Shrek-shaped waffles, fruit, made-to-order omelets and more. A favorite is the green chocolate fountain. The breakfast is included in some packages or can be purchased separately. Reservations are recommended ahead of time.
Everyone received a set of ogre ears (the girls got princess ogre ears) upon completing the ogre oath. My kids loved that I forgot I was wearing my princess ogre ears for half the morning. In my defense, I thought they were my sunglasses on my head!
Meet Shrek at Gaylord Palms
The Gaylord Palms Resort offers plenty of holiday activities to keep you and your family busy during your visit.
Which of these holiday activities would you most like to experience? Tell us in the comments below!
Jennifer Close loves to explore and take new adventures with her family down the street, across the country and around the world. She writes about her adventures on her family travel blog, Two Kids and a Map, and writes about exploring Pensacola at Pensacola with Kids.
You might also like:
• Christmas DreamWorks Experience at Gaylord Palms Resort
• Christmastime at Disneyland
• Disneyland-Hilton Garden Inn Passports with Purpose Prize Pack
• Epcot’s Best Rides & Hidden Treasures for Kids
A Note from The Travel Mama: As a representative for Travel Mamas, Jennifer was invited to experience the holiday activities at Gaylord Palms as part of a complimentary media visit.
Tags: character breakfast, Christmas, Florida, gaylord palms, Luminescence, orlando, polar bears, santa, shrek
Posted in Family Vacations, Hotel Reviews, Restaurant Reviews, Theme Parks | 3 Comments »
Wednesday, November 23rd, 2011
Is it possible to see snow and ice in 85 degree weather? It is if you are visiting the Gaylord Palms Resort in Florida! The Gaylord Hotels have created a Christmas experience full of ice, snow, gingerbread decorating, and DreamWorks characters. It was a perfect way for my family to get geared up for the holidays.
Shrek and Donkey ice sculptures at the Gaylord Palms DreamWorks Experience
ICE!
ICE! was our first stop at the DreamWorks Experience. For the last month, 40 artisans have been creating sculptures from ice. My entire family was in awe as we wandered around the different ice sculptures that were carved from two million pounds of ice. You will recognize the characters from the movie, Shrek, including Donkey, Princess Fiona, the Three Blind Mice, Puss in Boots, and Shrek himself. The colorful sculptures are so intricately detailed that it is hard to believe that they are carved from ice.
About halfway through the exhibit, sit five slides of various sizes carved from ice. When we were there, only three of the slides were available so there was a little line but it constantly moved. After three rides down the slides, the kids decided that they were too cold and were ready to go.
The exhibit ends with one of the most beautiful Nativity scenes I have ever seen made from crystal clear ice. It took my breath away. Even my son exclaimed how beautiful it was when we rounded the corner and saw it. You have an option to purchase your souvenir photo at the exit of ICE! This is the only place that you can purchase your ICE! photograph.
Being the good Floridians that we are, my family doesn’t own very many items that can constitute as winter clothing. Luckily, before heading into ICE! You can pick up a bright blue parka. There are a number of sizes for both children and adults. Long pants and closed-toed shoes are required for your visit and I highly recommend hats and gloves. ICE! is kept at 9 degrees Fahrenheit so it is COLD!
Nativity scene at ICE!
Kung Fu Panda Awesome SNOW
My children have only seen snow a handful of times so our visit to Kung Fu Panda Awesome SNOW was a treat, especially since much of our holiday travel will be spent in the warm South!
While we waited in line, we watched the pre-show, a Kung Fu Panda movie shown on a large screen. The show kept them quiet and content while we waited for our scheduled time.
Kung Fu Panda’s Po took us into the snow area where everyone jumped in to play right away. There are several play structures and lots of open area to make snowmen and snow angels. Grab a mat and slide down the 64-foot pagoda slide or visit my son’s favorite spot and throw snowballs at Tai Lung!
Kung Fu Panda Awesome SNOW has 130 tons of snow that is made every day. It is cleaned up between each session and maintained throughout the visits as well. Just like snow that falls outside, it gets icy in some spots so wear sturdy shoes and watch your step. You will want your jacket because the room is kept at 55 degrees, but after a few minutes of running around it does warm up.
We were allotted one hour to play in the snow and although we thought that wouldn’t be long enough, we tired quickly. My family stuck it out until the end of our session, but many other visitors had already left. Po will come back and dance a little in one of the pagodas as walk you out when your snow session is over.
Kung Fun Panda Awesome SNOW
Gingy’s Gingerbread Decorating
Gingy’s Gingerbread Decorating was one of our favorite parts of the DreamWorks Experience. Well, it was one of our favorites once my daughter got over her fear of Gingy and finally climbed out from under the table!
Projects range in size and price. There is a gingerbread cookie family, a large gingerbread house, and a gingerbread house ornament. Each project comes with icing and candies with which to decorate. Prices start at $19.99. After running around in the ice and snow, gingerbread decorating was a great way to calm down and take a break. Each of the projects is large enough that you can decorate one together as a family.
Gingy’s Gingerbread Decorating
DreamWorks 3D Theater Experience.
We lined up with our movie tickets in hand and headed into the Puss in Boots movie “premier,” complete with a walk down the red carpet and a picture with Puss in Boots. Included with each ticket, we got to choose two snack items and a drink. Choose from candy, popcorn, hot dogs and more. If you can time your movie showing around lunch or dinner, this is a great way to save money during your visit.
Experience it for yourself
This season the DreamWorks Experience at Gaylord Palms is open until January 2, 2012. There are a number of packages available to suite your family’s needs. The one-night package begins at $149 per person for the first two occupants and the two-night package starts at $199 per person. You can add occupants for an additional fee and children ages 3 and under are free. I recommend staying in the beautiful Gaylord Palms Resort but if you have plans to visit Orlando and are already booked at another hotel, you can purchase tickets to visit for the day.
If you aren’t going to be near the Gaylord Palms in Kissimmee (near Orlando), a DreamWorks Experience is being offered at each of the other Gaylord Hotels: Gaylord National (15 minutes south of Washington D.C. in National Harbor Maryland), Gaylord Opryland (in Nashville, Tennessee), and the Gaylord Texan (in the heart of Texas in Grapevine).
We had such a great time celebrating the beginning of the holiday season at the Gaylord Palms that we plan to make a trip to the DreamWorks Experience an annual visit.
Jennifer Close loves to explore and take new adventures with her family down the street, across the country and around the world. She writes about her adventures on her family travel blog, Two Kids and a Map, and writes about exploring Pensacola at Pensacola with Kids.
You might also like:
• Christmas at Knott’s Berry Farm with Snoopy & Friends
• Holidays at Disneyland
• Holidays in Phoenix at Zoolights
• The Travel Mama’s Guide to Orlando & Kissimmee with Kids
A Note from The Travel Mama: As a representative for Travel Mamas, the author was invited to experience the DreamWorks Experience as part of a complimentary media visit.
Tags: Christmas, dreamworks experience, Florida, gaylord hotels, gaylord palms, ice, kissimmee, orlando, snow
Posted in Family Vacations, Hotel Reviews, Theme Parks | 5 Comments »
Tuesday, October 18th, 2011
Lovers of the little interlocking LEGO bricks whooped it up under a shower of brightly colored confetti before rushing toward the gates of the new LEGOLAND Florida at the park’s grand opening this past weekend. Having been at the park the day prior during a preview for media, and as a former LEGOLAND California annual pass holder, I was on a mission to get to the best rides in the park.
LEGOLAND Florida Grand Opening
“What suckers,” I thought as I whizzed past families posing with huge sculptures of Albert Einstein, dinosaurs, Darth Vader, giraffes, and southern belles formed entirely from thousands of those ingenious LEGO bricks. I, much like Charlie Sheen, was winning. I would avoid the insane lines that were sure to form as the throngs crowded the park.
Winners aside, here are seven reasons you should visit LEGOLAND Florida.
1. Interactive attractions for children
LEGOLAND Florida General Manager Adrian Jones bragged that while most other amusement parks offer primarily passive entertainment, LEGOLAND’s attractions are interactive. Kids drive mini cars around two-lane streets featuring a round-about and stop signs at Ford Driving School. They build and race LEGO vehicles and can even build and program computerized LEGO MINDSTORMS robots in the Imagination Zone. And they get a work-out pulling themselves up a rope pulley on Kidpower Tower or romping through play areas (DUPLO Village and DUPLO Barn for little kids and the Forestman’s Hideout and Pharoah’s Revenge for big kids).
Another interactive favorite for all ages is the Lost Kingdom ride in Land of Adventure. Riders rack up points for shooting targets throughout the Egyptian-themed dark ride with their own laser guns. Hint: shoot the light on the cobra in the pot in the final room over and over to boost your score.
Kidpower Tower is one of 50 rides, shows, shops, and attractions at the new Florida theme park
2. Roller coasters
No amusement park would be complete without roller coasters. LEGOLAND Florida is home to four coasters (one more than is offered by its California sister). All are gentle, yet exciting enough to please both youngsters (my 6-year-old would love them all!) and adults. True thrill seekers may find the coasters a bit too tame but I enjoyed each ride’s unique theme and different feel, from the wooden dinosaur-themed Coastersaurus to the suspended steel Flight School on which riders’ feet dangle below them as the coaster soars across the tracks.
The Flight School roller coaster is more mellow than it appears
3. Cypress Gardens
Thirty-nine of LEGOLAND Florida’s 150 acres make up the historic Cypress Gardens. Originally opened in 1933, Cypress Gardens (which has retained its name), became famous for its gigantic Banyan Tree, southern belles sporting hoop skirts, and water ski shows with skiers forming daring human pyramids as they swooshed across the adjacent Lake Heloise. Jones said, “Some people see this as the end of Cypress Gardens. I prefer to see it as a new beginning.”
During a tour with proud Landscape Manager Nigel Dunning, I learned all about the native and exotic plants of the garden. The Cypress trees have “knees” (roots that grow as tall as flood waters reach, allowing the trees to breathe). The beautiful but thorny Silver Bell trees bloom pink in the fall (during my visit) and turn fluffy like dandelions to spread their seeds. The park’s treasured Banyan tree, brought here in 1936, is a native to India and Asia but must be kept alive with an army of 36 turbo jet heaters when the temperature dips below 35 degrees Fahrenheit here in Florida.
To understand how big the Cypress Gardens Banyan tree is, look for the people in the left bottom corner of the picture (and, yes, this is one single tree)
4. Water ski show
Although there is no pyramid of water skiers, LEGOLAND is keeping the water ski show tradition alive with a pirate-themed, upbeat show on Lake Heloise. The Battle for Brickbeard’s Bounty has children and adults laughing, cheering, and gasping as Captain Brickbeard and his band of pirates are defeated by Miss Miranda and her imperial soldiers in a showy display of water ski jumps and tricks. The first five rows get splashed so guard your cameras and cell phones!
Miss Miranda’s imperial soldiers in the Battle for Brickbeard’s Bounty water ski show
5. Locally sourced, healthy food options (& sinful treats!)
As far as theme park food goes, LEGOLAND Florida menu options are tasty, fresh, and reasonably priced. (Ex: $7.99 for a cheese hamburger made from never-frozen, local beef served with lettuce, tomato, a pickle and a side of fries). According to Executive Chef Robert Sit, the park’s food is locally sourced and seasonal as much as possible, which is better for nutrition, flavor, and the environment. While traditional amusement park treats like ice cream cones and pizza can be purchased at the park, an effort is made to provide healthy dishes as well, like juicy rotisserie chicken served with roasted vegetables. Plus, all kids’ meals come with a whole piece of fruit and choice of water or milk instead of French fries and soda.
Eat a healthy meal and then splurge on an order of LEGOLAND’s signature Granny’s Applefries: granny smith apples coated in a flour mixture before being deep fried and dusted with cinnamon sugar and served with whipped cream.
LEGOLAND’s signature treat, Granny’s Applefries
6. More LEGO fun to come
Located in Winter Haven, the new theme park is a good hour drive from Orlando’s airport and most tourist attractions and hotels. According to Jones, the goal is to expand LEGOLAND from its current one-day draw to a multi-day destination.
I couldn’t get anyone to spill all the LEGO bricks about specific attractions on the docket but LEGOLAND Spokesperson Jackie Wallace said, “This is just the beginning for us. So many plans are on the drawing board for LEGOLAND Florida.” By next year, you can expect to see a LEGOLAND Water Park added. Additional rides and interactive attractions plus a LEGO-themed resort hotel are also in the works.
A southern belle built from LEGO bricks is a nod to the history of Cypress Gardens, the botanic garden preserved within the amusement park
7. LEGO brick creations
The star attraction of any LEGOLAND park is Miniland, where famous buildings and structures from around the real (and imaginary) world are brought to life. Unique to the Florida park are LEGO brick representations of various home-state cities and sites like Miami Beach, the Kennedy Space Station, the Daytona International Speedway, and Key West.
I shouldn’t have been surprised by the excitement over all things LEGO as I dashed past photo-snapping families on opening day. It’s those plastic sculptures formed from 50 million LEGO bricks that make this park different from all other non-LEGO amusement parks. Orlando residents and visitors are a spoiled bunch when it comes to theme parks. They’ve been there, ridden that. But the LEGO creations have visitors oohing, ahhing, and snatching up LEGO model kits from gift shops with abandon. Just like Charlie Sheen, it appears I wasn’t winning after all.
Miami Beach in Miniland USA
Can LEGOLAND Florida survive?
Ownership of this historic park has changed hands a few times over the years and there is much hope in the Orlando and Winter Haven communities that LEGOLAND Florida can revive this once popular tourist attraction. The question is…will LEGO be enough of a draw to lure visitors 60 minutes away from the king mouse of amusement parks?
What do you think? Will the new LEGOLAND park succeed in Florida? Please share your thoughts in the comments below!
You might also like:
• Hilton Garden Inn Vacation Wishes Giveaway
• LEGOLAND California for All Ages
• Nickelodeon Suites Resort: A Hotel & Water Park for a Splashing Good Time
• The Travel Mama’s Guide to Orlando & Kissimmee with Kids
I took the photos of the Kidpower Tower, the Banyan tree, Granny’s Applefries, and Miami Beach in Miniland USA. All others were taken by Chip Litherland Photography and provided courtesy of LEGOLAND Florida.
A Note from The Travel Mama: As a member of the media, much of my visit to LEGOLAND Florida was hosted.
Tags: apple fries, banyan tree, cypress gardens, Florida, grand opening, legoland, orlando, water ski show, winter haven
Posted in Family Vacations, Theme Parks | 7 Comments »
Friday, June 24th, 2011
Get this…your family could win a trip to the new LEGOLAND Florida! As a SoCal resident and LEGOLAND California fan, I was thrilled when I recently received a big ol’ box of goodies in the mail that announced the opening of this theme park, set for October 15, 2011. Now YOU have a chance to experience this brand spankin’ new park for free!
A glimpse at LEGOLAND Florida’s rides and attractions
This will be the largest LEGOLAND in the world, located on 150 acres in Winter Haven, Florida – just southwest of Orlando. LEGOLAND is designed specifically for families with children ages 2 to 12. A lot of the rides and attractions will be the same as the park my family knows and loves here in our Southern California backyard. Be sure to eat some yummy apple fries with cinnamon whipped cream and take a spin on my daughter’s all-time favorite amusement park ride, the Dragon roller coaster. There will be more than 50 rides, shows, and attractions plus restaurants, shopping, and beautiful botanical gardens.
The box of LEGOLAND Florida treats I received in the mail
Parenting Magazine is giving away a trip for a family of four to LEGOLAND Florida including airfare, two-day park passes, meal vouchers, three nights accommodations in a one-bedroom suite at Best Western Auburndale, an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour with a Master Model Builder, and a bunch of other fantastic vacation goodies. All you have to do is “like” Parenting Magazine on Facebook and click the “Parenting Giveaway” tab on the left-side of the page to fill out an entry form. You could also win an array of other prizes like a $500 Old Navy gift card or a $510 Fisher Price Summer Fun Prize Pack. Contest ends August 31, 2011. See the official rules.
The Dragon roller coaster is one of my family’s favorite LEGOLAND rides
Find out more about LEGOLAND Florida at florida.legoland.com.
Why do you want to visit LEGOLAND Florida? Leave a comment below. (NOT TO WIN, to satisfy my curiosity!)
You might also like:
• LEGOLAND for All Ages
• LEGOLAND Splash Zoo for Toddlers & Beyond
• LEGOLAND Water Park: Joy Is Good, Right?
• The Travel Mama’s Guide to Orlando & Kissimmee with Kids
A Note from The Travel Mama: I have no affiliation with Parenting Magazine, although I have written for Parenting Younger Years, which was then called Babytalk Magazine. LEGOLAND Florida did not ask me to write this post. I just thought this looked like a SWEET prize that I wanted to share with you!
Tags: dragon roller coaster, Florida, giveaway, legoland, parenting magazine
Posted in Giveaways, Theme Parks | 10 Comments »
Monday, May 9th, 2011
Global Resort Homes provides spacious accommodations in vacation rental homes in Orlando - from luxury two-bedroom condos to seven-bedroom homes that can sleep up to 14! With lots of space, laundry facilities, and full kitchens - families have the amenities of home while on vacation. Plus on-site playgrounds and pools make these vacation homes fun for children (and grown-ups!). One lucky winner will be packing their bags and heading to Florida for a free seven-night stay in a four-bedroom vacation home, thanks to Global Resort Homes.
To enter this giveaway, you told me why you’d like to win a Global Resort Homes vacation. Many entrants said they would like to visit Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, the beach, and other Florida attractions. Others said they would love to use the extra accommodation space for a family reunion vacation. Some of you wanted to cook meals to save money while on vacation and others liked the convenience of doing laundry on-site. Some families wanted the privacy and quiet that a vacation rental home provides.
The winner of a week in a Global Resort Home said, “A cramped family of five would love to win!” Well, Karen Campanale, you certainly don’t have to worry about being cramped on this vacation since you’ll have a four-bedroom home in which to spread out! Karen faithfully entered this giveaway every day and liked Global Resort Homes on Facebook as a bonus entry. In reading through her entries I learned that Karen already has a nine-person trip to Orlando planned, where she hopes to escape 60 degree weather. In one entry, Karen said she, “can’t think of a better Mother’s Day present for me and my mom!”
I agree, Karen. Now, go call your mom and tell her the good news!
If you didn’t win, don’t despair! You could still win a trip to Orange County, California including airfare, hotel, and entertainment or win $5,000 for an Austin-Lehman Adventures dream vacation. Go enter now!
Thank you to everyone who entered the Global Resort Homes giveaway on TravelMamas.com. The winning entry was chosen at random using Random.org. If the prize is not claimed within 48 hours of notification, another winner will be selected.
You might also like:
• Disney’s New Ship Is a Dream for Babies, Toddlers, and Children
• Disney’s New Ship Is a Dream for Grown-Ups Too!
• Disney’s “World of Color” Premiere & My Red Carpet Hullaballoo
• How to Plan a Disney World Vacation
Tags: Florida, giveaway, Global Resort Home, orlando
Posted in Family Vacations, Giveaways, Hotel Reviews, Theme Parks | 3 Comments »
Sunday, May 1st, 2011
Orlando is one of the world’s most popular family vacation destinations, and for good reason – Disney amusements, water parks, SeaWorld, Universal Studios, and other kid-friendly attractions abound in this sunny locale. Here’s one more very appealing reason to visit Orlando this year…a free weeklong stay in a four-bedroom Global Resort Home! Read on to find out how to win this incredible prize.
Why cram into a hotel room, when you could spread out here?!
Just for Travel Mamas
Global Resort Homes is offering a complimentary seven-night stay at one of their Orlando vacation rental homes to one lucky Travel Mama or Travel Daddy. With four bedrooms in which to rest your tired amusement-park-stomping tootsies, you might even want to invite Grandma and Grandpa along to join in the fun (and watch the kiddos for you while you duck out for a night on the town)!
Unwind in one of four bedrooms in your Global Resort Home
Rest & Savings
Earlier this year, my family and I were lucky enough to stay in a Global Resort Home for a couple of nights during our Orlando vacation. After being on the go, go, go for several days - staying in a big ol’ home felt like a restful reprieve from our travel activities. Plus, stocking up on breakfast items and dining in one night saved some cash for other vacation splurges.
There’s plenty of space in a Global Resort Home
Convenience & Fun
Laundry facilities in our vacation home enabled me to wash some clothes while my two children had a blast attempting to shoot pool on the billiard table, playing air hockey, and riding the rocking horse in our very own game room. And what family wouldn’t want a private pool and spa to splash around in during a Florida vacation? Plus, the community playgrounds are fabulous spots for little ones to expend energy.
We were even able to obtain bed rails from Global Resort Homes to keep my toddler from rolling onto the floor in his sleep. Other rent-able items include travel cribs, full-size cribs, strollers, and more.
This Global Resort Homes castle-themed playground is sure to please the kids
Lots of Space, Affordability & Location
If vacationing in the Orlando area, Global Resort Homes provides spacious accommodations at a rate cheaper than most hotels, especially if you calculate the price based on square feet! Choose from a wide range of accommodations – from luxury two-bedroom condos to spacious seven-bedroom homes that can sleep up to 14! All are conveniently located near Walt Disney World parks and other attractions; some offer shuttle service too (at an additional fee).
The Prize
Global Resort Homes has several Orlando locations. Depending on availability and location preference, Global Resort Homes will provide a four-bedroom (or larger!) home for seven nights to one Travel Mamas entrant. Blackout dates apply: March, April, June 15-July 31 and December 15-January 7. Good for travel within one year of award date. Approximate value is $1500-$2000.
Enter to Win!
You can enter this contest once per day by adding a comment below about why you would like to win a Global Resort Homes vacation. All entries must be received by Sunday, May 8 at 11:59 pm Pacific Standard Time.
You can also get a one-time bonus entry by liking Global Resort Homes on Facebook and mentioning the Travel Mamas contest on the page. Be sure to add a separate comment to get credit for your bonus entry.
The winner will be selected at random using Random.org and will be notified by email. If the prize in not claimed within 48 hours of notification, the winner will forfeit the prize and another entrant will be selected. (Check your spam, people! The last winner never claimed her prize and I wound up awarding the prize to someone else!) I will name the winner on TravelMamas.com as well, so if you want to be sure not to miss out on your prize, you can always check back here to find out who won. THIS CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED. Find out who won now!
Want another chance to win an incredible vacation? Enter to win $5,000 for your dream vacation now!
Would you like to be notified of other giveaways and happenings on TravelMamas.com? Sign up for the Travel Mamas e-newsletter now! Mailings are typically sent once per month.
You might also like:
• Austin-Lehman Adventures Giveaway
• Epcot’s Best Rides & Hidden Treasures for Kids
• The Travel Mama’s Guide to Orlando & Kissimmee with Kids
• Win a Trip to Orange County, California!
A Note from The Travel Mama: Thank you to Global Resort Homes for sponsoring this giveaway and for providing my family with a two-night stay in one of their beautiful vacation homes.
Tags: disney, family vacation, Florida, giveaway, Global Resort Home, orlando, rental home, vacation
Posted in Family Vacations, Giveaways, Hotel Reviews, Theme Parks | 389 Comments »
Sunday, January 30th, 2011
My family crammed a lot of fun attractions, tasty food, and kid-friendly accommodations into our nine-day Florida vacation. Along with my husband and two young children, I visited three Disney parks and hung out with alligators and their crocodile cousins at Gatorland. We rested our heads in two hotels, one vacation home, and on board Disney’s new ship, Dream. Plus we sampled cuisine from Cuba, Canada, Spain, and beyond. Throughout it all, I wrote about our adventures on the i.seeKissimmee blog. Here’s a little round-up of our experiences and my recommendations for your next trip to the Orlando area.
Giddy About Kissimmee
This post is an ode to the fun and excitement of planning a trip to Kissimmee, Florida.
Mona Lisa Suite Hotel – A Hip Place for Families
Check out my review of this artsy hotel with a gorgeous pool and space to spread out. I especially recommend this suite hotel for families with tweens and teens who will appreciate its “cool” factor.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom with Young Children
The Animal Kingdom Park is a magical blend of animals, education, and all-out fun. It is fairly easy to tackle in one day, even if accompanied by small children whose stamina and attention spans wane after a few hours. Here are five tips for making the most of a visit to this Disney park with little kids (kindergarten-age and younger).
Celebration – Cuban Cuisine & Ice Cream in a Quaint Setting
Celebration, Florida is the Mayberry-esque town designed and developed by Disney. Celebration’s downtown is a small, walk-able, picturesque handful of shops, restaurants, and one hotel. I recommend a visit, especially to dine (and drink!) at the Columbia Restaurant and indulge in some delectable treats at Kilwin’s Chocolates and Ice Cream!
Epcot Family Favorites
Epcot, my favorite Walt Disney World park, offers delicious cuisine from around the world, teaches children (and adults!) about other cultures through hands-on experiences, and offers a glimpse into the future. Check out these six absolute must-sees if you have just one day to explore this enormous amusement park.
Epcot’s Le Cellier Steakhouse – Upscale Canadian Cuisine
If you think amusement park food is ho-hum, you have never visited Epcot! Long before we left home, there was much deliberation over which of the 11 World Showcase countries to choose for an international family dinner splurge. We were wowed by our choice of Le Cellier Steakhouse in the Canada pavilion. Check out my review of their savory steaks and maple-flavored cuisine.
Gatorland is Full of Surprises for Families
Discover six ways a visit to Orlando’s alligator farm and wildlife refuge, Gatorland, might surprise you.
The Magic, The Memories, and You Premiere at Magic Kingdom
Cinderella’s Castle comes to life like it never has before in a new show at Florida’s Magic Kingdom Park in The Magic, The Memories, and You. The show uses the castle as a backdrop for an impressive display of images and lights set to music. What makes this show unique is how it showcases up to 500 photos of actual Disney theme park guests taken that same day.
Cafe Tu Tu Tango – Tapas and Art
Cafe Tu Tu Tango, a wild tapas restaurant with an artistic flair, provides a unique dining experience in the Orlando area. Vibrant paintings crowd every wall, live Flamenco dancers perform, and artists paint creations before your eyes.
Rent a Vacation Home for Space, Sanity, and Sleep
Staying in a vacation rental home for the last leg of our Kissimmee adventures gave my family room to spread out, play together, eat a few peaceful meals, and enjoy some restful sleep. If you’re interested in space, sanity, and sleep while visiting Orlando, you should check out this post.
Kissimmee Wish List
Was all of this enough to satisfy our appetite for Orlando and Kissimmee? Noooo! We are already daydreaming about where we want to visit, eat, and sleep during our next trip to Florida.
What’s on your Orlando/Kissimmee wish list? Please share your thoughts in the comments below!
You might also like:
• Disney Dream’s Christening Ceremony – Dreams Do Come True
• How to Plan a Disney World Vacation
• Nickelodeon Suites Resort: A Hotel & Water Park for a Splashing Good Time
• Travel Apparel Giveaway from Fresh Produce
Tags: Cafe Tu Tu Tango, Celebration, Disney Cruise, Disney's Animal Kingdom, Dream, epcot, Florida, Gatorland, i.seeKissimmee, kissimmee, Le Cellier, orlando, vacation rental home
Posted in Family Vacations, Hotel Reviews, Restaurant Reviews, Theme Parks | 5 Comments »
Sunday, October 24th, 2010
Think the days of luxury traveling are over once you have kids? Not even. Here are a five of my favorite luxury resorts for family escapes ideal for even the most discerning little travelers. Mom and Dad might even have fun too!
Curtain Bluff Antigua, West Indies
A classic Caribbean resort, Curtain Bluff boasts that it “works” for the entire family, and third generations of families (a.k.a. repeaters) who return year after year would agree. As an all-inclusive resort, you and your kids will enjoy a myriad of activities including sailing Hobie Cats and windsurfers, diving, water-skiing, snorkeling and fishing trips, and tennis. The convenience factor: meals, drinks and activities are all-included. While Mom and Dad enjoy the signature Caribbean Green Coffee body wraps at the Seaside Spa, your kids can also have treatments tailored to young adults.
The Resort at Paws Up Montana, USA
How cool would it be to have your own personal Santa? You can at this luxury resort and ranch when you book the “Last Best Christmas Vacation” package which also includes a ginger bread house building contest and more. The resort is a winter wonderland offering cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, dog sledding, ice skating, tubing and snow shoeing. This all-season resort also offers a Kids Corps of Discovery Program plus Spa Town for the big kids, where you can relax in the great outdoors. The activities are endless year-round.
Hotel Guanahani & Spa St. Barthélemy, French West Indies
The glamour of St. Barts in the French West Indies is not just for stylish adults. Hotel Guanahani is the largest resort on St. Barts located on two beaches ideal for families. Book the Family Suite with private pools or the Butler Suites for the ultimate in pampering. There’s an array of activities for everyone including sailing, scuba diving, horseback riding and tennis. While the kids participate in the Junior’s programs and the daily Kindergarten, parents can relax on the beach, enjoy duty-free shopping in Gustavia or spend the day at the award-winning Spa by Clarins.
The Ritz-Carlton, Naples Florida, USA
This luxury resort is a fantastic choice for families seeking a sophisticated yet fun beach resort. In addition to the fabulous views of the Gulf of Mexico and miles of immaculate beaches and excellent dining, this resort also has a fabulous learning program for your little marine biologists. Nature’s Wonders offers daily interactive discovery programs for children ages five and older. Watch Discovery and National Geographic programs with the whole family in the Nature Vision Theater. Book the Resort Reconnect package to decompress in luxury with family and friends.
Mandarin Oriental Riviera Maya Mexico
This five diamond resort offers endless stretches of beaches, calm sea, three pools, exotic flora and fauna and their own Little Fans Club, with a host of activities for children aged four to 12 years. Parents, while the kids are busy, hit the Spa where you will enjoy the VIP couples suite for an Itzam (Earth) Experience. Then visit the Mayan Temazcal for a Shaman Blessing. Book the Family Travel package in the Two-Bedroom Grand Selva Family Suite offering personal butler services to ensure Mom and Dad don’t lift a finger.
Which of these resorts appeals to you most? Please share your thoughts in the comments below!
Tiffany Dowd is a regional hotel inspector for a leading luxury travel publication based in Boston, MA. For more luxury travel tips, read Tiffany Travels or follow @LuxeTiffany on Twitter.
You might also like:
• JW Marriott San Antonio – Where Luxury Combines with Good Ol’ Family Fun
• 7 Tips for a Fabo Cabo Girlfriend Getaway
• 10 Best Beach Hotels for Kids
• 10 Best Family-Friendly Hotel Pools in the World
Tags: Antigua, Curtain Bluff, Florida, Hotel Guanahani & Spa, kids' club, luxury travel, Mandarin Oriental, Mexico, Montana, Pools, Resort at Paws Up, Ritz-Carlton, spa, St. Barts
Posted in Family Vacations, Hotel Reviews | 6 Comments »
Sunday, April 18th, 2010
I was asked to share a few of my happiest travel memories to coincide with Lay’s potato chips’ Happiness Exhibit, a campaign that showcases the moments of simple happiness that people treasure most. Share one of your happiest travel memories in the comments below for a chance to win a $200 gift card to Southwest Airlines, provided by Lay’s potato chips!
Happiness is Family
When we travel with family, the focus isn’t on work, school, and never-ending to-do lists. Family vacations allow us to spend quality time with people we love, live more fully in the present moment, take notice of our surroundings, and enjoy life. This must be why my daughter often cries at the end of a vacation, “But I don’t wanna go home!”
And, it must be why so many of my happiest childhood memories took place while on a family vacation…swimming in indoor hotel pools with the gleeful calls of “Marco! Polo!” echoing against the walls…playing 20 questions in the backseat of our spitfire orange station wagon…or knowing I was safe on Disney’s Haunted Mansion ride because my dad told me my green Mickey Mouse ears would protect me. I am pictured above at age four (sporting my magical green mouse ears) with my brother and Pluto at Walt Disney World in Florida.
Happiness is Getting Away from it All
One of the happiest moments of any trip for me is after I arrive at my destination and I realize, “Hey, I’m on vacation!” Here I am pictured with my son, Leo, with my hometown San Diego in the background on a Carnival Cruise to Mexico. A sweet thing about a cruise is, the minute you step onboard, your vacation starts!
Happiness is Being Together
Since my two siblings and I live in three different states and we each have families of our own, it is a very rare occasion when we, our children, and our parents are all able to meet in one place. We made a point to get together in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico for a few days of family fun in the sun before my brother, a naval officer, was deployed to Iraq for six months.
While it was thrilling to swim with dolphins in The Bahamas and to climb a waterfall in Jamaica, most of my happiest travel memories take place when doing simple things with people I love. By far my favorite memory of this trip was simply splashing around in one of the hotel’s pools with the whole family.
In total, there were fourteen family members who went on this multi-generation vacation. From left to right, pictured above are my niece Siobhan, husband Phil, nephew Trevor, and sister Karen hamming it up at the pool at Solmar Resort.
Happiness is Relaxation
It is a happy moment indeed when children successfully take a nap while on vacation! This is especially true when such a nap takes place poolside at a beautiful resort, allowing for a mid-day snooze or dip in the pool for the Travel Mama and Travel Daddy! Here’s a photo of my daughter, Karissa, asleep in her stroller at the Kauai Marriott Resort in Kauai, Hawaii.
Happiness is Dreaming
I spent a lot of time visualizing taking my baby to Disneyland to distract myself from contractions during a very, very, very long labor with my firstborn. I couldn’t think of a happier place to be. It is, after all, The Happiest Place on Earth!
So, for my daughter’s first birthday rather than throwing her a birthday party, we took a three-day trip to Disneyland. Did the trip live up to my expectations? I think this picture of Karissa clapping with joy on her inaugural Disney ride aboard Dumbo’s back says it all!
Happiness is Simple
The message of the Lay’s potato chips’ Happiness Exhibit is that the happiest moments in our lives are truly the simple ones. From the online exhibit, select photos will be chosen to be featured on millions of Lay’s potato chip bags. You can submit photos that showcase simple, happy moments to Lays.com. Submitting photos on the Lay’s site does not affect your chance of winning the Happiest Travel Memories Contest on TravelMamas.com but it sure would be fun to see your photo on a bag of Lay’s potato chips!
Happiest Travel Memories Contest Sponsored by Lay’s Potato Chips
I shared just a few of my happiest travel memories with you. Now it’s your turn! Leave a comment below describing one of your happiest travel memories for a chance to win a $200 Southwest Airlines gift card. Lay’s potato chips will provide the prize to the winner.
This contest ends at 11:59 pm Pacific Standard Time on Saturday, May 1, 2010. The winner will be selected at random using Random.org and will be notified by email. If no response is received within one week, the first winner will forfeit the prize and another entrant will be selected. THIS CONTEST IS CLOSED. To find out who won and to read my favorite entries, read Thanks for Sharing the Memories.
You can enter a maximum of four times, using each method of entry once. The first option is required for entry. For each bonus entry, you must add an additional, separate comment to this blog post.
• REQUIRED ENTRY: Leave a comment below about your happiest travel memory. Please be specific! General comments like, “I love to travel” or “I have many happy travel memories” will be disqualified.
• BONUS ENTRY: Follow @TravelMamas on Twitter and tweet this contest. Be sure to add a link to your tweet below! Copy and paste the following phrase into Twitter:
Share a happy travel memory on @TravelMamas to WIN $200 for AIRLINE TIX from Lay’s potato chips http://bit.ly/arRHw7 #giveaway
• BONUS ENTRY: Become a Fan of Travel Mamas on Facebook. Then submit a comment like the one below, filling in the blanks, on the Travel Mamas Fan Page wall. Be sure to come back here and repeat the phrase in a separate comment on this blog post!
If I win the Happiest Travel Memories Contest on TravelMamas.com I will go to ___________ because _______________.
• BONUS ENTRY: Become a Travel Mama to receive bimonthly e-newsletter updates. If you already receive the e-newsletter, that counts! Just be sure to make a comment below saying that you are on the distribution list!
You might also like:
• Beach Day in Zihuatanejo, Mexico
• Carnival Cruise Line’s Onboard Activities for Kids
• 10 Best Family-Friendly Hotel Pools in the World
• Top 10 Disneyland Rides and Attractions for Babies and Toddlers
• Why We Travel with Children
Tags: cabo san lucas, California, Cruise, disney world, disneyland, Florida, hawaii, kauai, lay's potato chips' happiness exhibit, Mexico, multi-generation vacation, pool, San Diego, vacation naps
Posted in Family Vacations, Giveaways | 357 Comments »
Sunday, February 28th, 2010
In my last post, I wrote about my experience at the Nickelodeon Suites Resort with my preschooler daughter, my toddler son and my mom. I told you about the family-friendly suites and many of the fun on-site activities at this themed Orlando hotel, like miniature golf, 4-D movies, and interactive live shows. I’ve saved the best for last…the character breakfast, the water park and pools, and the slime! Read on to learn how you can win a two-night stay and other Nick-style fun for a family of four at the Nickelodeon Suites Resort!
I made reservations one morning for the Character Breakfast at the Nicktoons Café. Nickelodeon characters like Dora the Explorer, SpongeBob SquarePants, and Patrick the Starfish visited each table. Then all of the characters and other staff danced and sang in a chorus line for the diners. Dora, my daughter’s favorite, was in no rush to leave the kids. She happily played with all of the children, dancing to techno music and giving high-fives galore. It was the most diner interaction at a character meal I have ever experienced! There was an extensive array of hot and cold breakfast goodies. My favorites were the chocolate chip pancakes, cinnamon rolls, and the cooked-to-order omelets.
From the character meal to a pool-side lunch and sit-down dinners, my mom and I were both pleasantly surprised by the quality of the food. We had a sit-down dinner two nights at The Mall’s Nicktoons Café. We figured at a place where the focus is on kid-fun, perhaps quality food would not be a priority. Thankfully we were wrong and all of the food we had was quite tasty. We could also purchase food from a minimart or four fast food options at the Food Court. For poolside eats, grab a hamburger or chicken strips from the Lagoon Grill & Bar. The jerk-seasoned chicken sandwich was especially yummy!
On our last day at the Nick Hotel, we were determined to check out the hotel’s vast pool and numerous waterslides despite a cloudy, sprinkling sky. The giant structure of slides was a bit intimidating for my young children, but older child guests looked as happy as, well, kids at a water park! The highlight for big kids was the daily afternoon Mass Sliming, when 400 gallons of green “slime” poured over giggling children.
Our family kept warm in the heated zero-entry pool and over in the Kids’ Play Area with its five-foot slides and shooting fountain. My mom, Ellen, was the only adult in the kiddie area brave enough (or silly enough?) to ride the slides with the children to appease her grandchildren’s pleas of “Again, Grandma, again!” (Yes, that’s my mom – a true Travel Grandma – pictured below on the slide with my son, Leo.)
Think it’s all for the kids? I saw some adults riding those big waterslides! Plus, there’s a poolside bar that offers tropical alcoholic (or non-alcoholic) beverages for the parents!
The Nick Hotel is an affordable, fun way to visit Orlando with children. When the kids are occupied and happy (and not whining!), that’s when I’m happy (because it’s easier for me!).
Want in on the fun?
Book your Nickelodeon vacation and/or Enter to win a two-night stay in a two-bedroom KidSuite for a family of up to four at the Nickelodeon Suites Resort! The winner will also be awarded one character meal (for two adults and two children), four 4-D Movie wristbands, 300 points for use at the arcade, and a gift basket of Nickelodeon goodies. Approximate value is $500. The contest ends on Saturday, March 6, 2010. The winner will be randomly selected using RANDOM.org and will be notified via email. If the prize is not claimed within one week, the winner will forfeit the prize and an alternative winner will be selected. Based on availability. Not valid during Holiday Weeks, Special Events and Expected Sell-Out Dates. Two Night Accommodations (Room and Tax) Resort Fee Not Included. THIS CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED. The winner will be announced on Travel Mamas on Monday, March 8, 2010.
You can enter a total of four times. To enter:
1) Make a comment below about which hotel attraction mentioned in this story or Nickelodeon Suite Resort – Part 1 your family would enjoy most and why. All generic comments like, “Thanks for the contest” or “I want to win” will not count as entries.
2) Follow @TravelMamas on Twitter and tweet this contest. Be sure to add a link to your tweet below! Copy and paste the following phrase into Twitter:
Pick me! I wanna win a splashing good time with a 2-night stay at @NickHotel in Orlando on @TravelMamas http://bit.ly/dxuN3N
3 & 4) View last week’s post, Nickelodeon Suites Resort – Part 1 for two more chances to win now!
You might also like:
• How to Plan a Disney World Vacation
• Inspiration from a Disney Expert
• Nickelodeon Suites Resort – A Family Hotel with Amusements Galore
• 10 Best Family-Friendly Hotel Pools in the World
A note from The Travel Mama: The Nickelodeon Suites Resort invited my family and me to stay at their resort for three nights free-of-charge. It was so much fun; we booked an extra night at a discounted rate.
Tags: character meal, Florida, Nickelodeon Hotel, orlando, water park, waterslide
Posted in Family Vacations, Giveaways, Hotel Reviews, Restaurant Reviews, Theme Parks | 72 Comments »
Sunday, February 21st, 2010
With onsite activities like an elaborate water park, miniature golf, and live audience-participation shows, the Nickelodeon Suites Resort in Orlando, Florida is a destination unto itself or an affordable hotel option for families who want to take free shuttles to nearby Disney World theme parks and other attractions. I recently spent four nights at the Nick Hotel with my daughter (Karissa, almost five), son (Leo, almost two), and mom (Grandma Ellen, 65). Read on to learn how you can win a two-night stay and other Nick-style fun for a family of four at the Nickelodeon Suites Resort!
All of the rooms at the Nick Hotel are suites. (As a light-sleeper, all I can say is, Halleluiah!) We stayed in a two-bedroom KidSuite, with bunk beds in a character-themed room, a king-size bed in the master, and a pull-out queen sofa bed in the living area. There was also a kitchen area equipped with a small fridge, sink, microwave, and coffee maker – making simple breakfasts and snacks a snap. A suite allows for better sleep, and therefore less cranky pants and a happier vacation for all!
After a long day of air travel (with a screaming toddler) from San Diego, we wanted to take it easy our first full day at the Nickelodeon Suites Resort. However, the overcast weather did not cooperate with our plans to explore the on-site Lagoon Water Park and Pool. I worried there wouldn’t be enough to keep us occupied, but there was plenty for us to do!
First we played a couple rounds of free miniature golf. Even my little guy got in on the action!
After lunch and naps, we headed to The Mall. From restaurants to entertainment and shopping, you can find all sorts of indoor fun here.
First, we checked out Nickelodeon’s 4-D Theatre. We sported 3-D glasses to experience stuff “jumping” out at us from the movie screen. The fourth “D” came in the form of misted water, scents (think flowers), and rumbling seats. You can pay per flick, or for a little more, get a wristband for unlimited viewing throughout your stay. My daughter was scared by the first movie, Deep Sea, about ocean creatures but she stuck it out nonetheless. Her brother, on the other hand, started crying less than one minute into the film so I had to whisk him away. I took Karissa back in for a viewing of Nick Jr’s The Wonder Pets: Save the Sheep! This show did not require the glasses and was more her speed.
Next stop? The Kid’s Spa. Karissa chose sparkly blue from a rainbow of colors for her finger nails. She’s quite the girly girl and loved the attention from her sweet nail technician. The spa also offered temporary tattoos (for both boys and girls), hair braiding, and pedicures.
Minding the pretty nails, we headed for The Arcade, where there were games for little ones (virtual bowling and mini basketball) to teens (ski ball, Guitar Hero, and air hockey). The kids earned points while playing, and redeemed them for little trinkets and toys.
Before dinner, we attended Nick Live Goes Wild, a high-energy audience-participation game show at Studio Nick. The losing team’s dad got a cream pie in the face, while the winning team’s tween son got doused with slime (which, apparently, was a really cool thing for a boy that age)! Late night shows included Family Improv, Who Knows Best?, and Karaoke.
Nick After Dark was also located in The Mall for children ages five through twelve. Alas, my children were too young to participate but backstage passes to the Nick Studio and hands-on slime-making would be enough to keep most kids happy for an evening while mom and dad slip out for some grown-up fun.
There was so much to do- I couldn’t squeeze all of the information about the Nick Hotel into one story! Check back next week to read about character dining and the resort’s fabulous water park in Nickelodeon Suites Resort – Part 2.
Want in on the fun? Enter to win a two-night stay below or book a two-bedroom KidSuite for just $99! That’s nearly 50 percent off the average standard rate! This awesome rate is being offered for a limited time to Travel Mamas readers only. The final date to book this deal has been extended to February 28, 2010. Learn more about this offer.
Enter to win a two-night stay in a two-bedroom KidSuite at the Nickelodeon Suites Resort! The winner will also be awarded one character meal (for two adults and two children), four 4-D Movie wristbands, 300 points for use at the arcade, and a gift basket of Nickelodeon goodies. Approximate value is $500. The contest ends on Saturday, March 6, 2010. The winner will be randomly selected using RANDOM.org and will be notified via email. If the prize is not claimed within one week, the winner will forfeit the prize and an alternative winner will be selected. Based on availability. Not valid during Holiday Weeks, Special Events and Expected Sell-Out Dates. Two Night Accommodations (Room and Tax) Resort Fee Not Included. THIS CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED. The winner will be announced on Travel Mamas on Monday, March 8, 2010.
You can enter a total of four times. To enter now:
1) Make a comment below about why you would like to have the “slime” of your life at the Nickelodeon Suites Resort. All generic comments like, “Thanks for the contest” or “I want to win” will not count as entries.
2) Tweet this contest! Copy and paste the following phrase into Twitter. Be sure to post another comment with a link to your tweet!
I want to have the slime of my life with a FREE 2-night stay at @NickHotel on @TravelMamas http://bit.ly/dfvn7h
3 & 4) Read Nickelodeon Suites Resort – Part 2 to enter the contest two more times now!
For more information on this topic see:
• Get a Good Night’s Sleep on Vacation with Kids
• How to Plan a Disney World Vacation
• Nickelodeon Suites Resort: A Hotel & Water Park for a Splashing Good Time
• 10 Best Family-Friendly Hotel Pools in the World
A note from The Travel Mama: The Nickelodeon Suites Resort invited my family and me to stay at their resort for three nights free-of-charge. We also received a free character breakfast. It was so much fun - we booked an extra night at a discounted rate.
Tags: Florida, miniature golf, Nickelodeon Hotel, orlando, spa, water park, waterslide
Posted in Family Vacations, Giveaways, Hotel Reviews, Theme Parks | 240 Comments »
Friday, February 5th, 2010
Tomorrow my family is headed to the Nickelodeon Suites Resort in Orlando, Florida. Mama’s happy when the kids are happy, so I know I’ll be happy here!
To prepare for our trip, I have been showing my almost five-year-old daughter, Karissa, around the Nick Hotel website. I’ve promised a trip to the Kid’s Spa to get her finger nails painted any color she wants. I’m sure the whole family will love the free live entertainment and shows like family improv and Karaoke. Karissa is beyond excited about a character breakfast with favorites like Dora the Explorer and SpongeBob SquarePants.
My daughter is most jazzed up about the gigantic water park filled with fountains and slides. It’s supposed to be a bit cloudy during our stay, but since the water is heated and she and her nearly two-year-old brother, Leo, adore anything to do with water, I’m sure we’ll be spending a lot of time poolside!
I first learned about this hotel when one of the travel industry experts I interviewed for my story on the 10 Best Family-Friendly Pools in the World, Theresa Jorgensen of SixSuitcaseTravel, recommended the Nickelodeon Suites Resort for its seven slides and flumes, and easy access zero-entry. A 400-gallon tank spills water on splashers throughout the day but the highlight is the daily sliming each afternoon.
Sound fun? You can go too! Check out this sweet deal just for Travel Mamas and Travel Daddies like you!
Exclusive offer for Travel Mamas readers: $99 rate at Nickelodeon Suites Resort
Limited time only! Book by February 19, 2010 – OFFER EXTENDED – Book by February 28, 2010!
Start planning your next great getaway with Travel Mamas and Nickelodeon Suites Resort in Orlando, Florida. From water parks to getting slimed, you’ll enjoy it all at Nick Hotel. Meet SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer and experience interactive Nickelodeon entertainment. Pack your bags because for a limited time your family vacation starts at just $99 a night on select nights through May 2010.
- $99 per night in a 2-bedroom KidSuite on select dates
Average cost without discount is $189. That’s a savings of nearly 50%!
Call 1-877-642-5111 and ask for Travel Mamas. Or book online.
Valid for new reservations only. Offer based on limited availability through May 31, 2010. Must book by February 28, 2010. Rates and conditions subject to change. Restrictions apply. Black-out dates: 2/12 – 2/18, 3/12 – 3/18, 3/25 – 4/8, 4/16 – 4/27, weekends in May, 5/28 – 5/31. Cannot be combined with any other special offers or promotional rates. The resort fee of $25 USD, plus tax, per night will be charged, which includes scheduled bus transportation to the four Disney Theme Parks, Universal Studios, Wet N Wild and SeaWorld, poolside entertainment, water park features, business center, high-speed internet, parking and unlimited local phone calls. This fee is not included in the room rate and will be charged regardless of service usage.
A note from The Travel Mama: The Nickelodeon Suites Resort has invited my family and me to stay at their resort for three nights free-of-charge. It looks like so much fun, we decided to book an extra night at a discounted rate.
You can also enter to win a two-night stay at the Nickelodeon Suites Resort! To find out more and enter see:
• Nickelodeon Suites Resort – A Family Hotel with Amusements Galore (Part 1)
• Nickelodeon Suites Resort – A Hotel & Water Park for a Splashing Good Time (Part 2)
****
Tags: character breakfast, Florida, Nickelodeon Hotel, orlando, pool, spa, waterslide
Posted in Family Vacations, Hotel Reviews | 3 Comments »
Monday, April 27th, 2009
An Interview with Jennifer Marx, co-author of the PassPorter guides to Disney
Hanging in my office is a page torn from a PassPorter’s guidebook to Disney World, across which I have written, “DO WHAT YOU LOVE!”
PassPorter was developed by Disney enthusiast Jennifer Marx. Jennifer originally made homemade binders filled with itineraries to take on Disney trips with her husband and PassPorter co-author, Dave Marx. The organizers helped her plan their vacations and served as a souvenir scrapbook. During one of their Disney adventures, it occurred to Jennifer that she could sell a combination organizer/guidebook to help other vacationers plan and remember their trips too.
During a recent interview, Jennifer gave me her top tips for touring Disney with kids and divulged some of her Disney favorites.
Top Tips for Doing Disney with Children: Jennifer suggests, “Go at their pace. Don’t try to do 50 rides. Try to keep to their schedule as much as possible and get back to the hotel if you can for a nap or to go swimming.”
Jennifer also recommended bringing along a good stroller instead of renting one of the hard plastic strollers from Disney. Her favorite is the McClaren Quest, “because it folds in half for getting on and off the buses and monorail plus it reclines for naps.” She sewed patches on her four-year-old son Alexander’s stroller from the 15 countries their family has visited together.
Favorite Park: Epcot. “It’s probably because of sentimental reasons because that was the first park that I ever went to when I was a teen. We went just for one day and didn’t go to Disney World until a couple years later.” Epcot is one of four theme parks at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. It is divided into the Future World (which focuses on technology and innovations) and World Showcase (with shops, restaurants and attractions representing the cultures of 11 countries).
Favorite Disney Restaurant: “Victoria and Albert’s because that’s where Dave and I got married. We had a small wedding with 18 people – just immediate family.” Victoria and Albert’s is the most upscale of all Disney restaurants. It is located at the Grand Floridian hotel at Disney World and is solely for guests aged 10 and older.
Favorite Disney Attraction: “The Carousel of Progress at Disney World. It is quintessential Disney. There are a lot of new great rides these days but this is old school Disney. It’s kind of cheesy, but I like it. It just feels like Disney.” The 21-minute show was created by Walt Disney for the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair and then was moved to Disneyland in California. The show moved to the Magic Kingdom park in Florida in 1975.
Jennifer and Dave’s authenticity and approachability has helped to sell nearly a third of a million PassPorters to fiercely brand-loyal fans. Jennifer seems like one of your best girlfriends- unpretentious, fun, self-depricating. She said, “I don’t look like a supermodel. I look like a mom.” It is this couple-next-door realness that readers can relate to. Jennifer admits, “I’m really shy so at events Dave is in charge and I’m standing back and smiling and trying not to say something stupid.” I never would have guessed that from our conversation – she seemed nothing but confident, witty, and easy to talk to.
This year PassPorter is celebrating 10 years of helping people enjoy Disney World, Disneyland and Disney cruises. Jennifer and Dave are currently on a weeklong Disney Cruise to Tortola with about 150 readers. The festivities will continue at Disneyworld next week. Plans are in the works for a Disneyland party in the fall for West Coast fans.
I read PassPorter several months ago while planning a family trip to Disney World. The guidebook’s easy-to-read format and neighborly advice prompted me to flip to the to the front to read more about the authors, where I discovered how Jennifer was inspired to create the first PassPorter. I tore the page from the book (sorry, Jennifer and Dave!) and put it on the bulletin board in my office.
Jennifer’s story encouraged me to follow my dream. She transformed her love for Disney into a successful career writing a unique series of Disney guidebooks. She inspired me to turn my love of traveling and writing into a career too.
You can imagine how thrilled I was to interview the woman who has been such a source of inspiration to me! I just hope I didn’t say anything stupid.
* * * *
Are you a fan of PassPorter or another Disney guidebook? Or do you have any Disney tips to share with other Travel Mamas? Leave a comment below!
For more information on this topic see:
• Amusement Parks & Disney Resources
• Holidays at Disneyland
• Top 10 Disneyland Rides and Attractions for Babies and Toddlers
Tags: California, Cruise, disney world, disneyland, Florida, jennifer marx, passporter
Posted in Family Vacations, Theme Parks, Travel Tips | No Comments »
|
|
|
.jpg)
