Posts filed under 'VACATION TRAVEL TIPS'
Looking for entertainment that doesn’t cost a dime? ArtsFest, presented by United Arts of Central Florida, celebrates local arts and culture by hosting various events in the Central Florida area during the month of February.
Feed your family’s artistic spirit or discover a new curiosity by attending one of the 302 free cultural events including theater, dance, comedy, art and exhibition galleries, workshops, storytelling and much more. Some family-friendly events located close to Kissimmee or worth the drive downtown include:
- Osceola Arts Festival (Kissimmee): February 11 and 12, head to Valencia College and see over 150 artists from around the U.S.
- The Storyteller (International Drive – Orlando): February 18 and 25, celebrate diversity and learn about struggles and successes of African-Americans.
- SomeBunny Special Puppet Show (Downtown Orlando): February 21, join Miss Bunny on her forest adventure full of surprises, where kids learn that they are “SomeBunny Special” too.
- Tree of Light (Downtown Orlando): All month, 24 hours a day, interact with the Tree of Light, a tall sculpture made from recycled materials, and discover what happens once all the lights are on.
Keep in mind that some events do require a fee for parking. Click here for more information and a detailed schedule of non-ticketed events. (Although the ticket lottery has ended, more than 260 events are non-ticketed where you can just show up and enjoy.)
February 7th, 2012
“Getting Away Together,” a new half hour travel TV series airing on PBS member stations across the United States, provides a glimpse into the vacations of different families and friends as they come together in celebration. The series documents different groups of people traveling to various American destinations while offering viewers invaluable travel tips and insider information. From girlfriend getaways to family reunions and milestone celebrations, the series shows the benefits of vacationing together in spectacular rental properties across America.
“Getting Away Together” serves as a platform to exhibit heartwarming moments of family gatherings and overdue reunions. The program focuses on the ever-growing trend of vacation home rental during getaways as vacationers seek a more prominent feeling of togetherness. It’s the first reality travel series to focus on this trend of “togethering.”
In one episode, “Get Away Together” travels to America’s number one family vacation destination, Kissimmee in Central Florida, and showcases the magic of the theme parks and attractions and numerous advantages to staying in a comfortable vacation home. Other episodes of the show will visit the Outer Banks of North Carolina, Central Oregon, the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach in Alabama, Hilton Head Island in South Carolina, California’s Oceanside and more!
Watch “Getting Away Together” now on PBS and see real families make real memories. Check your local listings or visit or visit www.gettingawaytogether.com for more information. You can view webisodes by clicking here.
January 18th, 2012
SeaWorld® Orlando is making waves Saturdays, January 14 through February 4, with the all-new Just For Kids festival! The festival presents rides, concerts, shows and special activities designed for young children and their families.
At 8:30 and 10:30 each morning, the Just For Kids festival kicks off with an opportunity to share a fun-filled start to your day with a breakfast with Elmo! Elmo and other Sesame Street characters make appearances and give out hugs while you and your family dine on a buffet-style breakfast.
In Shamu’s Party Zone, Kids can meet Shamu and other SeaWorld friends, dance and sing to kid-friendly music and a DJ, get their face painted and make a sand art souvenir. Throughout the rest of the park, children can ride kid-sized rides and see SeaWorld animals.
The Just For Kids festival also offers a multitude of exciting activities and shows for the entire family. Your family will especially enjoy the hilarious show Elmo and Abby’s Treasure Hunt. Highlighting the festival is a schedule of concerts:
January 14
LazyTown Live on Stage
January 21
Max & Ruby’s Musical Playdate
January 28
Doodlebops’ Musical Playdate
February 4
Choo Choo Soul
Admission to SeaWorld’s Just For Kids festival concerts and events are included in park admission and take place on Saturdays, January 14-February 4. Tickets for the concerts are distributed to park guests across from the Nautilus Theater on a first come, first served basis starting at 9 a.m. on concert days. Seating is limited. A separate ticket is required for the Breakfast with Elmo & Friends. Click here for information.
January 11th, 2012
Already a leader in big balloons, Orlando Balloon Rides will be launching the largest hot air balloon in the United States. This new one-of-a-kind balloon is five times the size of a regular hot air balloon. “You could fly the average balloon inside this balloon,” says Orlando Balloon Rides CEO Jason Schulke. Capable of transporting 24 people at a time and measuring more than eleven stories, the new balloon Facebook users named “Perelandra” will take flight mid-December. For its inaugural flight, 24 lucky individuals chosen through Facebook, charity events and other means will have the opportunity to christen the balloon’s maiden voyage through the Central Florida skies.
Make your reservations now for a once in a lifetime experience.
November 29th, 2011
After returning from one of Orlando’s many theme parks and attractions, relax in the comfort of your Orlando vacation home living room or home theatre with some classic, family friendly films. A few of our favorites:
 |
Finding Nemo (2003)This Oscar-winning animated feature is Pixar at its very best. Literally a fish-out-water tale, “Nemo” features a son’s adventure to return home and his father’s own journey to find him. |
 |
The Wizard of Oz (1939)Every generation’s classic film about Dorothy’s trip to Oz and the friends she meets along the way. Re-watch with your family or show this quintessential gem to your kids for the first time. There’s no place like home. |
 |
E.T. (1982)Grab a box of tissues and relive the adventure of Elliott and his friendship with an extraterrestrial who is trying to get home. |
 |
Toy Story (1995)Catch Woody, Buzz and the whole gang of toys as they work together to find their way back to Andy. If you’re up to the task, watch the entire top notch, award-winning trilogy from Pixar. |
 |
The Muppet Movie (1979)Gear up for the new upcoming “The Muppets” by returning to the first film featuring Kermit, Miss Piggy, Gonzo and dogs and bears and chickens and things. A laugh-a-minute with dozens of celebrity cameos, this is the perfect way to introduce your children to The Muppets. |
Pop the popcorn and settle in for a relaxing and fun night with your family in your ALL STAR vacation home.
November 14th, 2011
There are a number of advantages to booking your Orlando vacation this time of year. The theme parks are all decked out in celebration so you can enjoy all the holiday magic that is already in the air! Crowds are considerably lighter, and you will find the best specials and rates during early November and early December travel dates. While avoiding longer lines and crowded parks, you will also enjoy Orlando’s incredible Fall weather. The mornings and evenings may be a little chilly so bring layers for your all-day excursions, then head back to your vacation home to take full advantage of your heated pool or hot tub.
Learn about ALL STAR’s FREE night Fall Special, and plan your Fall getaway!
November 4th, 2011
Taking your Orlando Vacation during the holidays doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a traditional family Thanksgiving meal. Here are some great ways to celebrate Thanksgiving without any of the hassle:
Avoid the grocery stores.
Don’t waste your vacation standing in lines or fighting over the last pumpkin pie. Pre-order your groceries from Garden Grocer. Everything you need to prepare dinner will be delivered to your vacation home prior to your arrival.
Stay out of the kitchen.
If you’re looking for a little more relaxation during your vacation, let someone else do the cooking. From the appetizers to dessert, Publix Supermarkets can provide you with an entire meal, complete with all the traditional dishes your family will enjoy.
Hire a personal chef.
Treat your family to a gourmet meal prepared by your own personal chef. For Thanksgiving dinner or through the duration of your stay, a personal chef is a wonderful way to enjoy delicious meals with your family during your vacation.
November 2nd, 2011
Having just opened its doors on October 15th, LEGOLAND Florida, located in Winter Haven, is the largest LEGOLAND park in the world. Within its walls is Miniland USA, a section of the park devoted to miniature models of US cities like Las Vegas, Washington, D.C. and New York City. View miniature replicas of famous landmarks such as the Smithsonian, Times Square and the Vegas Strip. Unique to this park is Miniland Florida which features some of the state’s main attractions. Miniland will allow you to glimpse a miniature Kennedy Space Center or race a LEGO brick car on an interactive Daytona International Speedway. Schedule a day at LEGOLAND, Florida on your next Orlando vacation and enjoy water attractions, interactive entertainment, family rides, restaurants and shopping.
October 19th, 2011
This Saturday, October 15, marks the much-anticipated grand opening of LEGOLAND Florida. Located on 150 acres in Winter Haven (just 30 minutes south of Orlando), LEGOLAND Florida is the biggest LEGOLAND park in the world. This one-of-a-kind theme park caters to families with children ages 2 to 12. Explore LEGOLAND’s different worlds like Miniland USA, which features New York City, Washington, D.C. and even Florida’s LEGO brick car races on an interactive Daytona International Speedway. For the first time you can enjoy your Orlando vacation at LEGOLAND Florida with its water attractions, interactive entertainment, family rides, restaurants and shopping
October 12th, 2011
In the last year, the vacation rental industry has seen a significant rise. In an unpredictable economy, consumers are not necessarily spending less money, they’re spending smarter money. Travelers want their money to go further and in doing so are choosing to rent vacation homes and condos now more than ever before.
“Travelers are selecting vacation rentals for many reasons, from cost savings to the inherent values that allow families and friends to grow closer by enjoying quality time together underneath the same roof,” explains Alex Risser, President of the Vacation Rental Managers Association (VRMA) and its Discover Vacation Homes awareness initiative, the official public resource on vacation rental travel.
Not only are you getting more bang for your buck, you’re also experiencing a real family vacation without sharing it with strangers. You’ve also got your own private home, pool and backyard for the kids and more amenities than a hotel could provide. A trend is forming where vacation homes are the norm.
Consider ALL STAR Vacation Homes when planning your next Orlando vacation.
October 7th, 2011
Stay 4 nights and receive a 5th Night FREE when you reserve ALL STAR’s Orlando vacation home rentals for Spring 2011 travel dates!*
That’s 5 nights for the price of 4 and up to hundreds in Orlando vacation savings!
Choose from over 260 Orlando vacation home rentals with 2 to 9 bedrooms and amenities such as:
- Private Pools & Patios
- Spillover Spas
- Fully Equipped Kitchens
- Multiple Master Bedrooms
- Game Rooms & Home Theatres
- Themed Bedrooms for Kids
Enjoy BIG savings on your Spring 2011 Orlando vacation – reserve your stay with ALL STAR Vacation Homes today!
*Offer valid on new reservations only for travel dates through June 10, 2011. Excludes April 16, 2011 to April 29, 2011. See website for terms & conditions and more details.
April 6th, 2011
The Lighthouse Key Resort & Spa Featured Guest Review for April 2011 is by D. Groshek from Michigan who stayed at 6-2001 LK-LK #304, a 3 bedroom Orlando vacation condo rental:
“We were absolutely thrilled when we opened the door of our condo; it looked exactly as nice as the online photographs. The view from our balcony was fabulous. The kitchen was fully equipped and all appliances stainless steel and spotlessly clean.
“Perfectly located for Disney; the drive there was quick and easy. Staff was very helpful, friendly and provided excellent service. Would highly recommend Lighthouse Key to anyone considering an Orlando vacation.”
For more Disney area vacation condo rental reviews, visit the Lighthouse Key Resort and Spa Guest Reviews page.
April 5th, 2011
by Rick E-Mouse
April 1, 2011 Edition
Spring 2011 Orlando Vacation Events
Make your Spring Orlando vacation complete with these fun and festive events:
Epcot® Flower & Garden Festival
Explore a world of flowery fun with millions of beautiful blooms, Disney character topiaries, gardening tips from HGTV experts and live Flower Power concerts! Now through Sunday, May 15th at Walt Disney World® Resort.
Viva La Musica
Enjoy a fiesta of Latin music, food, arts and crafts. Now in its Final Weekend: Saturday, April 2nd at SeaWorld Orlando and Sunday, April 3rd at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.
Mardi Gras at Universal Studios Florida®
It’s “Beads, Bands and Good Times!” with concerts, the sounds of New Orleans, Cajun food and parades! Saturdays, now through April 23rd at Universal Studios Florida®.
April 1st, 2011
Go with the flow on your Disney vacation – experience Finding Nemo – The Musical at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park in Walt Disney World® Resort.
This live, half-hour stage show is held at Theater in the Wild in the DinoLand U.S.A. section of the park and features:
- Favorite characters like Marlin, Crush and, of course, Nemo
- Immersive, animated backdrops
- Original songs composed just for the show
- Thrilling sound, lighting and special effects
Celebrate an ocean of fun on your Disney vacation at Finding Nemo – The Musical!
SPECIAL RESERVED SEATING OPTION
FOR FINDING NEMO – THE MUSICAL
Receive reserved seating for the 3:15pm show when you book your lunch at Tusker House Restaurant for dining between 1:00pm and 1:45pm!
One ticket/seat per guest booked on dining reservation. Please arrive 30 minutes prior to the 3:15pm show.
March 31st, 2011
The Vacation Rental Managers Association (VRMA) recently announced its new PBS reality travel TV series “Getting Away Together”.
The show, a part of VRMA’s Discover Vacation Homes awareness initiative, will follow families and friends staying together in vacation home rentals in 13 distinct travel destinations in America.
Debuting October 2011, the series is the first of its kind to focus on the “togethering” vacation trend and the fast-growing interest in vacation rentals.
To read more, visit the Discover Vacation Homes announcement page.
March 30th, 2011
by Rick E-Mouse
March 25, 2011 Edition
2011 Epcot® Flower & Garden Festival
Flower Power Concert Series Schedule
Make your 2011 Disney vacation “rock” – catch the Flower Power Concert Series at the 18th Annual Epcot® Flower & Garden Festival in Walt Disney World® Resort.
Upcoming concerts include:
- March 25 – 27: Melissa Manchester
- April 1 – 3: Starship starring Mickey Thomas
- April 8 – 10: Marilyn McCoo & Billy Davis Jr.
- April 15 – 17: Juice Newton
- April 22 – 24: Ricky Nelson Remembered featuring The Nelsons
- April 29 – May 1: Paul Revere & the Raiders
- May 6 – 8: Davy Jones
- May 13 – 15: Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone
Performances are held at the America Gardens Theatre and are scheduled for 5:15pm, 6:30pm and 7:45pm every Friday, Saturday and Sunday during the festival.
March 25th, 2011
The announcement of ALL STAR’s Signature Series luxury Orlando vacation home collection was recently featured on the OrlandoSentinel.com ‘Florida Travel Tips & Deals’ page.
To read more, visit the ALL STAR Vacation Homes News and Events page.
March 24th, 2011
For thrilling airplane action on your Central Florida vacation, experience Splash-In at Fantasy of Flight!
This fun Central Florida vacation event features:
- Water Landings & Takeoffs - performed by amphibious aircraft and seaplanes
- Special Aircraft Displays – like Kermit Weeks’ Short Sunderland and PBY Catalina
- Pilot Meet and Greets – including Fantasy of Flight pilot Grumman Duck
Splash-In at Fantasy of Flight “takes off” next Thursday, March 31st and is included in admission.
March 23rd, 2011
Enjoy BIG savings on your 2011 Spring Orlando vacation at ALL STAR Vacation Homes and Lighthouse Key Resort & Spa with these great Orlando vacation rental deals:
Plan now and SAVE up to HUNDREDS or More!
*Offers valid now through June 10, 2011. Excludes April 16, 2011 – April 29, 2011. See website for terms & conditions and more details.
March 21st, 2011
by Rick E-Mouse
March 18, 2011 Edition
Upgraded Star Tours Ride Opening
This May at Disney’s Hollywood Studios®
Return to your favorite “galaxy far, far away” on your 2011 Orlando vacation – experience Star Tours – The Adventures Continue at Disney’s Hollywood Studios® in Walt Disney World® Resort.
Set for a grand opening on May 20, 2011, this popular Disney attraction will feature these exciting new enhancements:
- More Characters – new droids “Ace” AC-38 & Spokesbot Aly San San in addition to R2-D2, C-3PO and Darth Vader himself!
- New Ride Vehicle – the “Starspeeder 1000″ racing through events set between Episode III & IV!
- Surprise Journeys – a different adventure each time, like podracing on Tatooine, speeding through Coruscant and escaping Boba Fett!
The ride will also include 3-D HD video – plus new visual, atmospheric and motion simulation effects!
Shoot for the stars on your Disney vacation – ride Star Tours – The Adventures Continue.
March 18th, 2011
Previous Posts
Looking for entertainment that doesn’t cost a dime? ArtsFest, presented by United Arts of Central Florida, celebrates local arts and culture by hosting various events in the Central Florida area during the month of February.
Loading ...
