GreatOrlandoDiscounts.com Blog

Carbon Freeze Me Experience

noreply@blogger.com (My name is RAFI RAFI RAFI RAFI) — Wed, 16 May 2012 22:44:00 +0000

Several of you know my love affair for everything StarWars related. I totally love that Hollywood Studios have StarWars Weekend (this 2012 year will be from May 18th to June 10th). So, you cannot even fanthom the excitement for the following news from Disney about the brand-spanking new experience "Carbon-Freeze Me":

"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 images are then reconstructed in a computer for processing, and in approximately four weeks, the completed figurine is shipped directly to your house. "

If you are a Jedi at heart, then this will be a no-brainer. This is like any boyhood dream where you really wanna be Han Solo, the only thing missing there's no Princess Leia in that awesome Jabba the Hutt outfit (you all know what i am refering)!

Perhaps you are asking me about pricing....and here's where the marketing machine from Disney kicks-in:

"Each carbonite figurine is $99.95 (plus shipping). You can order additional figurines using the same image scan for $74.95 each. The replica figurine can be hung on a wall, just like the gangster Jabba the Hutt did in Star Wars: Episode VI Return of the Jedi. Guests also receive a light-up wristband."

For those members of the "Rebellion" eager to get their hands on this, some extra info:

"The experience will officially open on May 18 with the launch of Star Wars Weekends.Reservations are required and can be made starting Monday, May 7 by calling 407-WDW-TECH (407-939-8324)."

As usual in this type of experiences, Disney has some cancellation policies, so make sure to call and get acquainted with those before you purchase this incredible experience! Can't wait to call and make sure to get my very own personal Carbonite "Me", not even Sith Lord Vader can't get me away from this one!

May the force be with you all Jedis!

Turtle Trek at SeaWorld Guest Review

noreply@blogger.com (My name is RAFI RAFI RAFI RAFI) — Mon, 07 May 2012 22:19:00 +0000

Finally, one of the newest attractions of SeaWorld Orlando opened, Turtle Trek!

What an amazing experience! You get to see and be immerse in a world like no other. As you enter into the attraction, you’ll be welcomed by the “water stream” arch. At the end of the walk-way, you’ll see the doors leading to the first exhibit, which holds the Manatees. Here, you’ll feel as if you have enter into their world. Hanging from the ceiling, you’ll see little informative strips that shows the different species of manatees as well as other fishes that roams in their aquarium. Those animals are enormous and huge, but they are very docile and gentle. Then, you’ll be escorted to our next exhibit, which has the turtles. What an awesome exhibits, with different species of turtle, including a couple of huge sea turtles that were pretty awesome.

It’s in this exhibit that our SeaWorld expert starts introducing the third portion of this attraction, which is truly the highlight. She starts asking the crowd different questions in regards to turtles, and also how to make sure we can help them so they don’t become extincts. One interesting fact is that, the sea turtle makes about 100 eggs and from this, only 1 in 10 makes it to the open water. Not only they got enemies at the time they hatch, but also once in the water they have other enemies, natural and man-made. Our expert shows us the trapping nets that the US Government wants the fishermen to use use when catching fishes, this one is pretty cool cause it has a nice little back door that only turtles can go out from.

Once the doors open, you are headed into a room which has a dome on top. From here, you’ll experience the fascinating story of one turtle from hatching to going back again to the place where she born. And let me tell you, if you have a beating heart, you’ll be having tears (uh-hum “a little dust”) in your eyes. You will feel like if you are the turtle. The 3-d is impressive, and to top it all off the 360-degrees angle makes you feel as if you are right there. The sights and the sounds will make vivid the scenes and appreciate more what this lovely animals go thru. Not only that, but the message is loud and clear, to be a “hero” participating in the conservation.

Once outside, you’ll go thru the outside section of the same exhibit where the turtles and manatees are. This will give you a better angle from the top to see another sight of these lovable animals. Plus, for the nintendo/PS3/XBox crowd there’s a video game where you play the turtle and have to ditch the different obstacles that you can find at the sea.

This is a wonderful addition to SeaWorld and another one of those attractions that will be a definite favorite one. Stay tuned, tho, cause SeaWorld will open next year another fully immersive attraction called “Antarctica – Empire of the Penguin”.

B.B. Kings Classic Soul Dinner

noreply@blogger.com (ThemeParkEnthusiest) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 21:55:00 +0000

One of the newest shows in the Central Florida area is at a long time classic in Pointe Orlando. If you’re down here on vacation and you are visiting the theme parks then a dinner show is a great way to end your night after a long day at the parks. Instead of going back and wasting your vacation time in the hotel you can kick back for a delicious meal and enjoy even more entertainment. It’s the perfect way to end any night, vacation or not!

We walked into B.B. Kings Classic Soul Dinner not knowing what to expect, so just about anything they threw our way would be a surprise. When we got in we were quickly seated and treated to some delicious appetizers that came free with the show ticket. I got catfish bites and my friend got fried pickles, both equally tasty. After that they brought us out our salads before moving to the main course. They had three selections on the menu, but since there was only two of us we got filet mignon and some ribs which came with a full half a chicken.

After we were totally stuffed we were served a fine dessert, but the whole time we were eating the band was have a grand old time on stage. They were singing and playing the blues like it was nobody’s business. Down front the other guests (Not us) were dancing to the beat on the dance floor with drinks in hand.

If you are looking for a fun night out with lots of energetic fun then this is the place to be. With dancing, singing, an open bar and awesome southern food it can’t get any better. The great atmosphere and good food is what I call a good night.

Avatarland

noreply@blogger.com (Trevor) — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 23:19:00 +0000

There have been very few successful kickstarts to theme-parks in the Orlando área based on movies or themes to date. Until recently, hype over new areas of a park have been relatively minimal. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter has been a HUGE success in the re-inventing and refreshing of Universal’s Islands of Adventure(IOA). Hugely based on Disney’s recent purchase of Marvel Studios, IOA has spent the last couple years struggling and in need of a new addition. Soon after the last Harry Potter film was sent into production, the park decided that the fanbase for that was vast. And why not ride the coat-tales of the number one international grossing movie of all time? Soon after, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter was born; sending park attendance to record breaking heights within the first month of its opening.

But what about other failing parks in the area? Even Disney had record lows in it’s Animal Kingdom park the last few years, and has been looking to revamp and refresh the parks atmosphere. Even through the opening of Everest, Animal Kingdoms one and only Roller Coaster, the park received very little increase after the first few weeks of its opening. So what could Disney do to refresh it’s age old park? James Cameron, and his team at Lightstorm Entertainment have been offered rights to build a very large Avatar Themed section of Animal Kingdom. By 2017, guests will be able to experience the sights, sounds, and feel of Pandora, the planet that the film is based out of. Having the highest grossing film internationally (Before Deathly Hollows pt. 2) caught Disney’s eye, and they decided that this would be their new venture as a company. James Cameron walked the park with his lead designer to get a feel of what he was getting into, and left very encouraged. He mentioned that Animal Kingdom was a perfect place for guests to experience both natural, and supernatural creatures in a world they may not be entirely accustomed to.

We’re more than excited to see what James has in store for this project, and working side by side with the same engineering team that brought you Star Tours, and Tomorrowland, guests can rest assured that this Avatar Universe will be unlike anything they have ever stepped into before. Hype has been building, and more people have spoken out at the excitement than expected. Disney is ready, James is ready, we are ready, how about you? Are you ready?

Flower and Garden Festival

noreply@blogger.com (Trevor) — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 17:45:00 +0000

For 19 years Epcot has been in relation with HGTV to bring events throughout the park. From Epcots fabulous Wine Festival to the International Flower and Garden Festival. This year is the International Flower and Garden Festival. It’s a 75 day festival that runs through May 20. It has hundreds of experts there ready and will to explain any and every question you may have about planning, building, growing, or maintaining your home’s landscape. The park is springing to life with colorful displays, garden workshops, and over 100 HUGE character topiaries that turn Epcot into something you’ve never seen or experienced before. Your senses are sure to be buzzing with the different smells, sights, and even tastes that Epcot is offering at this year’s festival.

The festival Centerpiece is HGTV’s interactive, and hands on displays and showcases. Guests will be able to walk through displays with experts on hand ready and willing to explain why and how these displays are created, as well as give you advice and pointers for your home and garden. Whether you’re in the planning stage, or just need ideas, experts are on hand to help you. HGTV is providing numerous shows and demos throughout the park, and at various times that will be located on your park map to fit into the busy schedule and also allow time to visit the other attractions inside of Epcot.

And while this may all seem very adult oriented, don’t fret. HGTV is offering multiple rides and attractions for the kids as well. Based on the upcoming DVD and BLUERAY release “Pixie Hollow”, Test Track’s main entrance is offering a hands on display garden featuring topiaries of your kids favorite fairy and pixie characters from multiple Disney films, as well as Pixie Hollow. This is designed for kids aged from 2 to 5 years old, but provides entertainment for people of all ages. There are two different “play gardens” that fuse a playground with a garden, with themes from Toy Story, to Disneyworld. This allows kids to get in on the flower action while still enjoying the themes they’ve come to love. Bambi’s Butterfly house immerses children into a world of color and abstraction. They are thrown into a world with hundreds of different species of butterflies, with over thousands of them in an interactive environment. They also throw in a mix of everyone’s favorite Bambi characters displayed as colorful Topiaries.

If you’re native to Florida (or if you’re not) and are looking for something different, this is the place to go. The range of entertainment is vast, the displays and demos are colorful, and the knowledge is endless. This is definitely a great chance of pace from the tradition Epcot (If you’re a florida resident), or a great addition to it (If you’re not!). Make sure you don’t pass this opportunity up. If you get the chance to visit this festival, take it.

New Fantasyland soft opening

noreply@blogger.com (My name is RAFI RAFI RAFI RAFI) — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 18:31:00 +0000

One thing I should say from the get-go is that I love Disney. One of my favorite theme parks is Disney's Magic Kingdom! It has my favorite ride of all time: It’s a Small World (the one with the song that everyone has a love-hate relationship).

One indelible memory I have inside of any Disney park, it was the moment when my precious sister (minus one front tooth) and very small little me hopped into "Dumbo". It was a happy moment, we were sitting together and then she was pushing the button, and the flying elephant was going up and down. Besides the shaking, and the little stomp when you pressed the button, you cannot wait to do it again and enjoy that moment where you can feel the entire world stop and you just laughing with so much joy!

Fast forward 30-years after that event and I couldn’t resist calling my sister, while I was doing some video-chatting, and I was inside Dumbo! But this one wasn’t any ordinary Dumbo, it was the new revamped one that just opened at the new Fantasyland!!!

Disney just opened one section of the new refurbished Fantasyland, which includes Dumbo and The Barnstormer. The last one has Goofy “The Great Goofini” as the title character. This whole area will have the section name of Storybook Circus. To get here, you can take the railroad and get off in the Fantasyland Station. Once you get off, you'll see in the upper board that this place is called Carolwood Park, which is another nod to Walt Disney (Carolwood Pacific was the name he used for the railroad in his backyard).

Only in Disney you'll feel like you are your younger-self again. It was surreal, I was feeling like my little me and it was a flood of memories and wanted to share them with my sister. She was like "oh my god! I can’t believe it!" and then suddenly she was teary eyes and telling me that in her next trip we'll ride Dumbo together!

One More Disney Day

noreply@blogger.com (ThemeParkEnthusiest) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 22:24:00 +0000

So all I hear about lately is that Disney is having their leap year celebration. The “One More Disney Day” is supposed to be a huge event, but since its announcement a few months back it has been all hush hush and no one has gotten the scoop on what’s going to happen.

Well, Disney has finally revealed some special entertainment for the 24 hour One More Disney Day event. Since the park is going to be open through the night most guests are really excited about getting to ride their favorite rides when the sun goes down. Something you don’t usually get to do at the theme parks. You can expect to see enthusiasts like me planning ahead of time to get into specific rides that just seem awesome in the night air.

As for the extra additions to the schedule you can find an electrical parade full of lights and your favorite characters at 10pm as well as midnight. There will be a welcome show at 5:50 am as well as a Main Street Trolley that will make its appearance several times throughout the day. There will also be a castle projection show at 5:30am, right before the end of the day, which is rumored to have a special surprise.

Finally there will be a variety of Leap Year characters that will be around the theme park throughout the day, meaning you can take a picture with these characters on a special day, something no one else will get to do come 6:00am in the morning. It pretty much means your pictures are collector’s items.

I hope to catch you guys at the event because you can rest assured I will be there!

The Amazing Adventures of Spiderman - Makeover

noreply@blogger.com (ThemeParkEnthusiest) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 19:59:00 +0000

At the Islands of Adventure theme park in the Marvel Super Hero Island section of the park you can find one of my favorite rides. The Amazing Adventures of Spiderman has been around since the parks opening, and features everyone’s “Friendly neighborhood hero” as he battles a whole slew of heroes, half of which I didn’t even know existed. But regardless of how much you know about this superhero how can you not like a guy that swings around on webs? Well this great ride is getting a complete makeover.

Now not much has been said about this 3-D adventure, accept that it’s going to be updated with modern technology, an important improvement when you realize that it’s been there since 1999. With new high tech 3-D glasses to replace the old and 4K digital high definition animation this ride is really going to pop off the screen. There is also a promised update to the light and audio systems, bringing this ride back to life.

If you have never been on the Amazing Adventures of Spiderman then you are missing out. This great ride is like a roller coaster with a story! You fly around through the city following Spiderman as he battles his villains. But as you fly around you actually feel the water on your skin when there’s a splash, you feel the intense heat when there’s a fire and your cart shakes when there is electricity. It feels like you are actually there!

With these new additions you will be able to dive deeper into this story and there is supposed to even be a cameo by the story’s legendary comic book icon and Spider-Man co-creator, Stan Lee. I got to get over there in March when it’s done and check it out!

Blue Man Group – New Show

noreply@blogger.com (ThemeParkEnthusiest) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:38:00 +0000

Now I have blogged about Blue Man Group before, in fact it’s one of my favorite shows. It’s filled with comedy, music and some really cool special effects. Just about wherever you go here in Orlando you can find billboards and lobby posters sporting the three bald, blue men. So when I heard that they have a new show coming out I had to blog about it.

This February Blue Man Group will be featuring a new show with a new theme, so if you have visited the show before and liked it you have to come back and see it again. This theme has to do with the Blue Men’s newly acquired interest: cutting edge technology. If you ask me that means they are bringing out some more of their awesome and creative special effects. This new show is supposed to get the audience to participate, engage and explore with our blue friends.

But if you are concerned that some of your favorite parts from the old show are going to disappear then fear not. Universal also announced that Blue Man Group’s signature acts and crowd pleasers have found a new place in there show as well. The highlight of the show however will be the Blue Men interacting with something referred to as “Enormous GiPads,” that will have funny and insightful looks contemporary communication vehicles. You decide for yourself what that means, cause I am going to have to find out for myself.

Along with all these great new additions Universal has promised that the show will now end with a “pulsating new finale,” as if the first shows wasn’t enough! I can’t wait to get over to Universal CityWalk and see the show myself!

Her Royal Highness Package

noreply@blogger.com (My name is RAFI RAFI RAFI RAFI) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 20:39:00 +0000

Wow!!! Do you want to make a birthday simply unforgettable? How can you make your favorite grand-daughter birthday's the best ever? or How can you proposed to your favorite person in the world in a way that will be indescribable?

Well, Disney World has make things easy for everyone, since they have recently announce "Her Royal Highness" Package!

In the most incredible of places, right there at the center of Cinderella's Castle lays Cinderella's Royal Table which is the Restaurant of choice for Magical events! As you walk and see this spectacular view of the castle inside, you'll be invited to an event with the one and only Cinderella and Prince Charming, and not far from them is Fairy Godmother waiting to grant everyone a wonderful magical gift of enchantment.

With this new minted package, you'll get a Balloon centerpiece, Crystal-adorned tiara, and a Princess-theme cake. The wonderful and Magical Cinderella's Royal Chefs will do a vanilla or chocolate cup-cake decorated on top with a figure of either Cinderella (of course!), Belle, Ariel, Tiana (The Princess and The Frog), or Aurora (aka Sleeping Beauty).

If you wanna make your special lady "a true princess for the day!" then this will be the best gift for her. Definitely worth a look if you are looking for a unforgettable special occasion!

TWISTER…Ride it Out

noreply@blogger.com (ThemeParkEnthusiest) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 22:47:00 +0000

One of my favorite rides at the Universal Studios theme park is TWISTER. Everyone remembers the great movie, and this fun ride/experience brings it to life. Although you might call the ride a bit corny it has become one of the classics in the long list of rides at Universal Studios. When you see the large sign that says TWISTER and a variety of objects protruding from the side of a building you will know that you came to the right place. Get in line because this is a must for anyone who visits the theme park.

When you first enter you will be shown a short video that shows the destructive nature of tornados. The cool part is that the room you are in shakes and moves with wind in the movie… just to add a bit of effect to the film. After that you walk through the line, which is designed to look like a town after a tornado has torn through. With debris and dangling cars the destruction is worth pausing to take pictures.

Finally you end up at the attraction. The ride or more like a presentation is a large stage with several levels. Right in front of you is a small town, with a gas station as its centerpiece. Suddenly the lights dim and the sky turns dark. In the distance a tornado touches to the ground and slowly makes its way in your direction. The closer it gets the more turbulence there is, finally resulting in the stage actually falling apart. The gas station erupts in flame and a cow comes flying by.

I won’t give away the rest of the ride, but if you visit Universal Studios be sure to head on over and check it out, it’s worth it!

Disney's One More Day Promotion

noreply@blogger.com (My name is RAFI RAFI RAFI RAFI) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 21:22:00 +0000

One of my favorite Disney theme park is Magic Kingdom. It is really magical. It is awesome. It really makes you feel like a kid in a candy store!

Even in your sleep, you probably have imagine what would it be to stay over in the park. to see the park like no one else has seen it before.
But, you have thought it was a wishful thinking, right?. Not anymore!

Over the Dick Clark New Years Party (oh my god, he doesn't aged! what an awesome sight every New Years!), Disney announce what many of you will be salivating in their dreams. with the launch of the One More Disney Day, Both Disneyland in California AND Disney's Magic Kingdom will be open 24 hours! that was not a mistake or mistype...Disney will be open 24-hours! starting February 29th at 6am to March 1st at 6am!!!

Of course, as probably the date will tell you, it will be in reference that this year marks the Leap Year! Of course, this is something totally new to Disney. This will be the first time EVER where either park in both side of the coasts will be open 24-hrs!

It goes without saying that i am totally marking my calendar. Oh God, I am salivating over their awesome turkey legs, walking that "late" or that "early" into Adventureland. Getting into Pirates of the Caribbean during the wee-hours of the morning. or just thinking of going to the Haunted Mansion during the midnight, woohoo! or rather Boo! (insert one of those night of the living dead howling). Taking a picture of Cinderella's Castle as the sunrise marks the morning. Wow! i am just cannot believe what Disney has done! I am just counting the days.

Well, you can count the days as well, we have around 57-days left! So, Feb 29th here i go! I'll let you go, so i can do my little to-do list. there's never enough things you can do in the park and for 24-hrs, wow this will be a long-list!

DUMBO IN DISNEY CRUISE LINE'S FANTASY SHIP

noreply@blogger.com (My name is RAFI RAFI RAFI RAFI) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 18:43:00 +0000

What is the best symbol to Fantasy? That is exactly the question that Disney is posing for everyone that will be traveling the seven seas of the world! The answer will surprise you.

Continuing their long standing tradition that began in 1998 when the Disney Magic, the first of Disney Cruise Line's ships, started traveling across the seas. There's a couple of things that the imagineers always look when they are designing the ships. One is the title of the vessel and technology advances they are going to include in it. But another one that is as exciting as these two, it's picking up the iconic character they will put in its stern (the back of the ship).

The thinking behind the stern is how tide up is to the title of the ship, and it has to be in a pose that shows the character painting the name of the ship in a wonderful, neat, and unique way, and keeping up with the classic visuals of the original.

So, everyone was fill with excitement with the announcement of the new sister ship to the Disney Dream, the Disney Fantasy! And as all the information was becoming available, one thing that the imagineers wanted to keep under wraps was the symbol for the ship.

The Disney Magic, for being the first one of the Cruise Line, sported Goofy trying to "paint" the back of the ship with its name. Then, the imagineers got a little more daring and funny with the figures of Donald Duck hanging by a rope trying to "paint" the stern and Hewey (with Dewey and Louie peeking from behind) cutting the rope with a huge scissor, on the Disney Wonder. For the Disney Dream, the imagineers went old school and put the one and only Mickey Mouse in its "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" look sending one lonely mop to "paint" the stern with the name of the Ship.

What do the imagineers did with its newest ship? Well, to answer the original question pose to all the imagineers, they decided to bring back one amazing pachyderm, Dumbo. Of course, that iconic character will never be complete without the help of its amazing rodent companion, Timothy Quincy Mouse. Dumbo will be "flying" with the bucket of paint holding up with his trunk and Timothy Mouse will be holding the brush ready to "paint" the name on the stern. It has that Disney Classic written all over, but at the same time with a fresh look that will be a welcome sight when you arrive from the port of call to the ship.

Do not forget to try this new ship from the amazing Disney Cruise Line. Certainly will be fill with amazing areas to have fun and enjoy your delicious vacation. At the same time, this newest ship will be with the latest technological wonder that only Disney can do. Every Magical wish has been implemented and some you may haven't thought about!

98-days left to enjoy this awesome Ship made by the magic of Disney!

The Macy’s Holiday Parade at Universal Studios

noreply@blogger.com (ThemeParkEnthusiest) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 18:13:00 +0000

There is nothing like the Macy’s Day Parade to kick off the holiday season. But if you’re like everyone else you were running around trying to get the house ready for your Thanksgiving company. Well I have good news for you, you can still catch the Macys parade, and not just a rerun on the television. The Macy’s Holiday Parade has made its way to the Universal Studios, and it even has some additions!

With all the floats and balloons that make the parade a Macy’s event here at the Universal Studios there is no better way to get into the season. My kids and I went yesterday and we had a blast. With full marching bands and all the floats that came directly from the parade it was great! We bought a ton of holiday food and some hot coco and kicked back on the side of the road to all the great music and entertainment.

The best part is that this awesome event isn’t over; it is going till January 1st. So if you are still in town and want to get a good spot on the front row of the Macy’s Holiday Parade you still can! While you are there be sure to check out some of the other awesome Christmas stuff that Universal is offering. Like meeting Santa and the daily tree lighting!

BE OUR GUEST RESTAURANT NEWS

noreply@blogger.com (My name is RAFI RAFI RAFI RAFI) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 22:41:00 +0000

You probably were glued to the big screen watching the movie "Beauty and The Beast", specially the part where Lumiere (the wonderfully funny and friendly chandelier) welcomed Belle and sings the song "Be our guest".

That is the back-story that Disney has for one the Restaurants that is going to open in the new Fantasyland expansion that is being build at this moment in Disney's Magic Kingdom.

Details are coming, since we are getting closer and closer to one of the biggest openings in years for the N# 1 Theme Park in the World!

Be Our Guest is the Restaurant's name. Details given by Disney, the new restaurant:

Located in the "Beauty and The Beast" area, and the dining area will be just inside the Beast Castle, one amazing place for one amazing Restaurant in the making!

It will fit nicely 550 people.

Three (3) dining rooms Library/Gallery, West Wing (where, if you know the movie and story, lays the enchanted rose), Ballroom (remember that awesome part where Belle and Beast dance?).

It will offer Table-Service dining during the evening, and Counter-Service dining during the mornings/afternoon.

It will feature decoration inspired by the famous movie, and the ambiance be awesomely enchanting with a mural depicting scenes with the characters of the movie.

Even though there's no word in regards to whether is a character interaction, Disney has something up its sleeves. Many gossiping around this Restaurant refers that perhaps there would be a Lumiere audio-animatronic, like "Chefs de France" with Remy in Disney's Epcot, but Disney has been very hush-hush.

Once we are getting closer to the date of launching we all know more information. In this same area there would be another Restaurant called Gaston's Tavern with a huge statue of, you got it!, Gaston!

Stay tuned, this expansion to Fantasyland is looking more and more incredible and immersing and amazing!

Gatorland Zip Line Revisit

noreply@blogger.com (ThemeParkEnthusiest) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 22:47:00 +0000

It has been quite awhile since I have had the opportunity to get to a theme park. But with a friend coming down for the holiday season they asked if we would join them on their visit to a theme park. Now they are planning to spend a whole week between Universal, Disney and other attractions in the area. Unfortunately my work schedule would only let me take off one day. So when it came to which park I could visit with them I had to pick Gatorland.

Now, Gatorland wasn’t always my favorite park in the Central Florida area. But, after they added the zip line course to the park I haven’t been able to think of anything else. When the course first came out I went and visited, road the course and then wrote it a pretty good review. But now I had an opportunity to take a friend on the course for the first time… and we had a blast.

You can make reservations at the park for the zip line course when you purchase your ticket. You see the “jumps” are scheduled throughout the day, and they fill up real fast, so you gotta get in quick. Anyway we had a ten o clock jump scheduled, and at 10:05 we were sitting in a room going over the instructional video and getting geared up. Shortly after we were walking across the park and climbing the first tower three stories into the air.

Now if you think three stories isn’t that high I want to see your face when they clip that thin cable to a wire and tell you to get a running start. Either way, by the third tower jump you feel like a veteran. Jumping off a wooden tower that is swaying in the wind over a pool of alligators sure leaves you with a good memory to take home.

The best part is at the end. The last jump has two wires right next to each other, and they let you race another person in the group. I raced my friend of course, and I am not willing to let you know how it ended… but I will tell you one thing… someone cheated.

JAWS WILL BE CLOSING!!!!!!

noreply@blogger.com (My name is RAFI RAFI RAFI RAFI) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 20:35:00 +0000

I am bummed out for the following news. Universal Studios Florida will be closing the Jaws/Amity Area for good on January 2nd 2012 @ 9pm.

It’s been one of my favorites attractions. Sure, you can say all you want about how cheesy is the jokes and the interaction of the “boat” driver, but this ride grows on you and totally makes you feel very immerse into the action. Plus, you can feel the heat when you see a charred shark on his final try coming out as one of those nice twists to the ride.

The spokeman for Universal Studios Florida noted that this has been one of the first attractions to open in the park:

“We know you love JAWS! and we do too. It has been an amazing attraction and after terrorizing the waters of Amity here at Universal Orlando for 20 years, it’s a VERY important part of our history“

However, we are excited that something else will be coming into this area, and hopefully they will do something to tell the past guest or little clues to tell that Jaws was here.

Universal also took the chance to assure the visitors about new developments without revealing too much what is going to take place there:

“So, we’ve got a couple things planned to ensure we always remember and honor it. We know it’s hard to say goodbye, but we can’t express how EXCITED we are about the new, innovative & amazing experience we’re going to be bringing you.“

This comes in the date where Universal Studios Singapore is opening its “Transformers – The Ride”, which will open soon in Universal Studios Hollywood. Wheels are turning and would this be perhaps a clue as to what will be build here? Who knows!

Let’s stay tune to what new things will happen in Universal Studios Florida, which will sure make visitors new and “old” happy and excited to come to the center where movies are brought to life in new incredible ways!

Ready to have a "Cyber" New Year?

noreply@blogger.com (My name is RAFI RAFI RAFI RAFI) — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 22:12:00 +0000

People gather in Time Square for the traditional drop of the ball since December 31st, 1907.

Usually, you are glue to your TV sets to see the amazing and ageless Dick Clark until he press that red button and the New Year is being welcome! Or, perhaps you are standing by Main Street USA in Magic Kingdom, seeing how the fireworks irrupts across the night sky bathing Cinderella's Castle in a blast of incredible designs and colors!

Have you heard about CYBER New Years Celebration?

Well, the past year DISNEYQUEST, that interactive "theme park" in Downtown Disney, started to do a "cyber" end of the year celebration. It was a total success, so this year they decided to do it again!

• The event starts from 8pm - 1am.
• Kids will be entertained by a DJ that will play dance music getting the people in that party mood!
• Unlimited access to ALL the games and DisneyQuest attractions including Buzz Lightyears's Astroblasters, Virtual Jungle Cruise and CyberSpace Mountain.

If you still awake by that time with all the incredible time playing the games and enjoying your time and spending your energy going from one awesome excitement to the next one, then you'll be in for a surprise!

• Cofetti Drop.
• Festive party favors.
• Coupons for a pizza, hot dog, chicken Caesar wrap or Hamburger plus chips and soda.

You can purchase your tickets ahead of time, so you can get a savings for this special "Cyber" event.

Let's create a brand new end of the year tradition, being the magical place that it is, DisneyQuest will have its annual Cyber New Year an event not to be miss!

Candlelight Processional

noreply@blogger.com (My name is RAFI RAFI RAFI RAFI) — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 17:39:00 +0000

The Candlelight Processional features celebrities narrating the Christmas story, plus a 50-piece orchestra and a choir made up of hundreds of cast members and community members. The Disney World event dates to 1971 and the first Magic Kingdom Christmas, but it moved to Epcot's America Gardens Theatre in 1994.

There are three performances nightly at 5 p.m., 6:45 p.m. and 8:15 p.m. through Dec. 30. It's included in regular theme-park admission.

The schedule for celebrity narrators is:

•Nov. 25-27: Mira Sorvino, Academy Award-winning actress ("Mighty Aphrodite")

•Nov. 28-Dec. 1: Gospel singer Michael W. Smith

•Dec. 2-3: Geena Davis, Oscar winner for "The Accidental Tourist"

•Dec. 4-6: Actor Edward James Olmos (Public shows only at 6:45 p.m. and 8:15 p.m. on Dec. 4)

•Dec. 7-9: Actress-model-author Isabella Rossellini

•Dec. 10-12: Actor Neil Patrick Harris (TV's "How I Met Your Mother")

•Dec. 13-15: Actress Lorraine Bracco ("The Sopranos")

•Dec. 16-18: Actress-dancer-singer Chita Rivera

•Dec. 19-21: Country singer Trace Adkins ("Just Fishin'," "You're Gonna Miss This")

•Dec. 22-24: Actress Susan Lucci (Emmy winner for "All My Children")

•Dec. 25-27: Actor Blair Underwood ("L.A. Law," "The Event")

•Dec. 28-30: Marlee Matlin, Oscar-winning actress ("Children of a Lesser God.")

Do not miss the chance to see your favorite star in an amazing venue, with all the wonderful and the holy-est of occasions, here at Epcot during the Christmas time!

SeaWorld Expansion

noreply@blogger.com (My name is RAFI RAFI RAFI RAFI) — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 22:38:00 +0000

Recently was announced from SeaWorld Orlando that they will start a series of expansion to its theme park.

First, the one that will draw the eyes will be "Antarctica - Empire of the Penguin". This will be the biggest-ever attraction and will be open in 2013! In their own words this attraction will make you be "surrounded by the sights, sounds and awesome encounters found in this frozen place, embarking on a one-of-a-kind ride". I will also carry state-of-the-art ride technology "for adventures that are different each time", so that visitors can be able to "experience the mystery and wonder of life on the ice through the eyes of a penguin, sensing the beauty and drama of their sometimes-dangerous habitat."

Another incredible attraction coming from SeaWorld Orlando is "TurtleTrek", which will open in 2012! What is really unique about this attraction is that visitors will enter into "two massive naturalistic habitats, one filled with hundreds of freshwater fish and gentle manatees, the other home to more than 1,500 saltwater fish and more than a dozen sea turtles". Then, guests will move to a domed theater were there will be a 3-D/360-degree "completely immersive" picture. The picture, plus the effects and the dome "allows a hyper-realistic 3-D movie to be shown all around – not just in front or on only one screen. It’s this unique and immersive way of showcasing a sea turtle’s epic and astounding journey that is the heart of TurtleTrek. And for the first time, you, the guest, are given a turtle’s eye view of the ocean’s wonders."

The Third attraction will be in its sister theme park Discovery Cove. Here, it will open a new attraction in 2012 called "Freshwater Oasis"! In a relaxing and totally stress-free environment with a design closely resembling the rainforest of the world, guest will "wade past rocks and trees to encounter the thriving, lush habitat of the Asian small-clawed otter. Experience the lively energy of the otter in an up-close-and-personal way, without ever having to leave the refreshing water." There's two ways to "discover" this amazing experience "Swim through waist-deep water to the center of Freshwater Oasis, or view from a scenic pathway, an island abundant with life. There will be no glass separating you from the marmoset monkeys that call the idyllic island home. Experience a whole new world, right in front of your eyes."

Cannot wait to see these incredible attractions, it will certainly make you plan ahead and be ready to experienced it with your own eyes!

So, 2012 will bring TurtleTrek (in SeaWorld Orlando) and Freshwater Oasis (in Discovery Cove), and 2013 will bring Antarctica - Empire of the Penguin.

Disney’s Upcoming Exotic Driving Experience!

noreply@blogger.com (ThemeParkEnthusiest) — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 23:35:00 +0000

Disney has always showed an interest in sports, and the Richard Petty Driving Experience was just one way of showing it. However the new buzz around Disney is that Disney is about to open a new and exciting new attraction that will have people from all over Florida coming in. When most people visit the Central Florida area for a vacation they rent a vehicle to make their stay easier. Some people even rent sports cars to make their stay in the area even more exciting. But the truth is everyone has that one car that is so far out of their reach that they would give anything just to drive it for ten minutes. Well here at the upcoming Exotic Driving Experience you are going to be able to do just that!

Disney went around asking their guests that if they had the opportunity to drive just one exotic car which one would it be? After compiling a list and finding the most popular selections Disney will be introducing the new attraction on January 16th of next year. The current list of cars available are Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Audis Porsches and more! They are even building a new course with a bunch of sharp turns and challenges so that you can really put the cars to the test. Apparently you get to take six laps in the car of your choosing.

Now if you are like me you will be heading down to this track when it opens. I don’t know if I would suggest getting there the week after it opens, because I am sure its going to be crowded, but I will most definitely be fighting for my spot in the weeks following!

SeaWorld Up-and-Coming big News!

noreply@blogger.com (My name is RAFI RAFI RAFI RAFI) — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 23:28:00 +0000

This November the 8th, SeaWorld is getting its feet wet with new additions to its marine theme park in Orlando.

As per their spokeman Nick Gollattscheck said "We do have plans for incredible new attractions at SeaWorld Orlando, and we're committed to finding amazing new ways to immerse our guests and fans in the mysteries of the sea. It's too early to talk about the plans and details right now, but you can expect us to share the news in the near future."

What kinda projects will delight the millions of visitors to this amazing theme park? There's a couple of items that are coming in the "gossip" pipeline, mainly (as per the Orlando Sentinel):

One of the biggest projects, expected to be completed in 2013, involves Penguin Encounter, a walk-through exhibit that opened in 1987 and displays several different species of penguins, as well as puffins and murres. This will close in December for an 18-month refurbishment. SeaWorld plans to build an indoor "dark ride" in its place. Since August, SeaWorld Orlando has also trademarked a trio of names that could be associated with the project: "Antarctica" and "Empire of the Penguins," both for use as themed areas in an amusement park, and "SnowWorld," for use as an amusement-park attraction.

Separately, SeaWorld is also planning to redevelop its Manatee Rescue attraction, a project expected to debut in 2012. According to a person familiar with details, the plans include renovating a circular theater and using it for an upgraded, sea-turtle movie that will likely be tied in with a theatrical documentary that was released this past summer through SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment's new SeaWorld Pictures film unit. SeaWorld plans to convert the manatee exhibit into a "combination manatee/sea turtle exhibit." SeaWorld last month also trademarked the name "Turtlesphere 360" for use in a theme-park attraction.

Discovery Cove, the high-end boutique park next door to SeaWorld, is also a part of the expansion efforts. Documents filed with the water district and Orange County show that SeaWorld intends to convert a now-closed saltwater reef into a freshwater environment referred to both as the "Flooded Rainforest Trail" and as "Flooded Forest River Trails." Its features will include a "primate island" and an otter-viewing area.

Certainly with these trio of possible developments, we are waiting for the official word, and counting the days until these areas open here in Orlando. SeaWorld wants to keep its name as the n. 3 theme-park company in the business, specially getting tough competition from the new Legoland theme-park, the new Fantasyland area in Magic Kingdom, and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in Island of Adventure.

Stay tune cause this November the 8th will be the official unveiling of the plans for next year!

Cinderella's Holiday Wish Show Returns Today!

noreply@blogger.com (My name is RAFI RAFI RAFI RAFI) — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 17:19:00 +0000

One of the most magical places on earth is Walt Disney World, specifically Disney’s Magic Kingdom theme park! And one of the most inspiring time of the year is reaching upon us, Christmas!

What happen when the two of those unite? Well, the thought is both gratifying and magical! A super jolly good ol’ time, like drinking your hot cocoa with marshmallow combination, simply delightful!

Starting today, Friday November 4th until the end of the holiday season, Magic Kingdom will have a beautiful show called “Cinderella’s Holiday Wish” show.

We meet our beloved fav four: Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy that wants to create magic and thinking in the best way possible. Then, at the castle shows up the Fairy Godmother, who wants to give some magic to the festivities. Enter, Cinderella and Prince Charming, and it is here that they decided to do something to make the castle sparkle as her glass slippers!

Between a little holiday music and dance routine, and a little of the “Salaga-doola, menchika-boola, Bibbidi-bobbidi-boo” from the adorable Fairy Godmother and the end is totally awe-inspiring.

The entire castle lights up as magical as ever. It will look as if the castle has been transformed into a glass, or diamond (depending on your taste), that sparkles in a magical way. Only Disney can do something like this!

To create this effect required: 32,000 sq. ft. fishing nets, 15 miles of cables, 200,00 LED bulbs and 500 strobes. However, what’s more important is the magical results.

Do not miss this amazing and entertaining show, that certainly will be a highlight of your visit to Disney’s Magic Kingdom!

The Best Fireworks in the Land!

noreply@blogger.com (My name is RAFI RAFI RAFI RAFI) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 21:28:00 +0000

One of my fascinations is that of fireworks. Since their inception dating back to 7th century China, which is the earliest documentation of fireworks, people have been marveled by the colorful and incredible designs from that simple pyrotechnics show.

From those humbled beginnings, it has transformed itself into a business that is use around the world. Goes without saying that fireworks and magic goes hand in hand, like peanut butter and jelly, and like Mickey and Minnie!

Walt Disney when creating his masterpiece thought about what would have been the best way to close the park while leaving a touch of pixie-dust to the park's future visitors. The answer was in a show that had Sleeping Beauty Castle as a backdrop in Disneyland. It goes without saying that this magical place, plus the show itself was a total hit. When he decided to build Walt Disney World here in Orlando, goes without saying that he wanted to bring the show to its new place with a few tweaks...this time the backdrop will be Cinderella's Castle!

Back in the those early years, the show was called "Fantasy in the Sky", now it is called "Wishes: A Magical gathering of Disney Dreams".

It doesn't matter how many times you see the show, every single time you'll be immerse in the beautiful designs, the sheer spectacle of its music, and above all, seeing around you all the people marveling at the multicolored display patching the night sky, well, it is without saying that you'll be seeing some grown ups with tears. At the end, no matter your age, you'll be irrupting in joy and in applause as the show culminates with a magnificent spectacle of pyrotechnics magic!

Do not leave the park without seeing this show, it will electrify and it will make you feel that dreams can be reality. Perhaps is good to finish with one quote from one of Walt's incredible creations, Cinderella:

A dream is a wish your heart makes when you're fast asleep. In dreams you will lose your heartaches. Whatever you wish for, you keep. Have faith in your dreams, and someday, your rainbow will come smiling through. No matter how your heart is grieving, if you keep on believing, the dreams that you wish will come true.

Halloween has come and gone

noreply@blogger.com (My name is RAFI RAFI RAFI RAFI) — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 21:44:00 +0000

So what did you wear this past All-Hallows-Even? Oh my, I am sorry! that is the question I should have made in 1556, but today i would have to ask "What did you wear this Halloween?"

The art of dressing the children in disguises or customes is called guising, and the first records about this we find it as early as 1895 in Scotland. The first record of this tradition in the U.S.A is in early 20th century, and the first mass-produced halloween customes appeared in stores in the 1930s.

Traditionally, Halloween costumes feature scary characters like monsters, witches and devils; also can be ghosts, skeletons, fictional characters, celebrities, even presidents! Of course, little children usually try dressing as either princes or princesses.

It is interesting that Disney compiled a list of the most frequent halloween customes in their parks, and here's the discovery:

Girls

Rapunzel
Princess Aurora
Pirate
Belle
Minnie Mouse

Boys

Cars 2 Characters
Jack Sparrow
Pirate
Buzz Lightyear
Woody

Now dressing up is all done :(

But Christmas is right around the corner :)