orlando ticket options

My wife and and I are going to orlando in a couple of weeks time for the first time and have bought ultimate tickets for disney not knowing that all the parks dont come under this one ticket. Now i%26#39;m confused as to what is the best ticket to buy for the best parks, HELP!!!!

orlando ticket options

Where does it say limited access? The websites I%26#39;ve looked at say it can be used for all 4 parks? Perhaps you don%26#39;t have the park hopper option, meaning you can%26#39;t visit more than one park per day??

Is it worth buying a ticket for 2 year old?

My niece will be turning 3 approximately 2 weeks after we leave Orlando. We are concerned that the parks will not believe that she is under 3 and are thinking that it is our best bet to just purchase a ticket for her. What is the procedure? Will they require a birth certificate or some time of identification proving that she is under 3? It seems that it may be better to just avoid the hassle. We will also be under the dining plan, but it seems silly to pay extra for her to be on the dining plan as well because she would eat off of her parent%26#39;s plate anyhow.

Is it worth buying a ticket for 2 year old?

Hello Rio,

No! Don%26#39;t buy her a ticket! She%26#39;s 2 while your on vacation! They never check birth certificates. If your worried bring a copy but don%26#39;t spend unnecessary money!

Is it worth buying a ticket for 2 year old?

I agree.......don%26#39;t buy her a ticket. You have the truth on your side! I would however take the birth certificate just in case if you have it available. We took our son 7 years ago when he was 2 mos shy of 3 and we didn%26#39;t buy a ticket and nothing was ever said to us.

Thank you for your advice, I truly need it. We just don%26#39;t want to be harrassed at every corner, and I haven%26#39;t been there with anybody this age before so it was never an issue therefore I never noticed how the situation is handled. We would prefer not to carry the birth cert if we can avoid it in case it gets lost or whatever, but if you think it may be necessary we can bring it. I guess if worse comes to worse we can always pay and decide once we get there. Of course it would be nice to save the money as well!

If I were you I would bring the certificate since you can get a replacement pretty easy. I am awful and still haven%26#39;t ordered my 2 year olds so thank you for reminding me I need to do that! We are bringing her next mos without a birth certificate but she is small for her age. My honest opinion is that they wouldn%26#39;t harass you anyway. I remember everyone at Disney being nicer than you can imagine anyone being.

Anyway, like I said we had no problems with our son 7 years ago and he was big for his age too. Have fun!

My son was 2 last year when we went to DW and I brought his birth certificate just in case, but I never needed it. Take advantage of some saving whenever you can! My son%26#39;s 3 this year and we%26#39;ll have to suck it up and but the park tks. Oh well!

Just bring a copy not the original just to make you feel better Rio, I doubt you%26#39;ll need it.

If she%26#39;s going to be back at Disney with-in the next 7 years buy non-Expiration tickets now, the price isn%26#39;t going to be getting any lower.

I think this question was asked before, %26amp; some people just said to bring a photocopy of the ID. Afterall, at that point, isn%26#39;t the onus on Disney to prove she%26#39;s NOT 3? Birth cert. don%26#39;t have photos on them anyway, so if somebody wanted to be sly, they could just bring another kids ID. I don%26#39;t think they%26#39;ll give you any trouble.

Buying the no expiration tickets is an excellent idea! Maybe we will do that after all! In NC there are no photo ids for children. Birth Certificate is all we would have. The Disney site itself says you might be asked to prove age with such documents as birth certificate so that is why I said that. My feeling is still that they won%26#39;t say anything.

Traveluniversal, is it the real thing or a scam?

I was the other night on the internet and I go to this webpage that I normally go to listen music. Anyways... I go everyday and the other night there is this pop up saying that I was visitor 1000 or whatever and I won a travel to Florida, etc. I never click on those things but it was the first time I that I saw that pop up in the page so I click, put some information, phone, etc. A few day later I go a call confirming that I am who click on the webpage etc and they offer me this nice package to Florida and Mexico. They gave me their address, costumer service number, web page, explained me everything... I have to say they were really nice. The place is called travel universal and you can see the information of the package they offer me at www.traveluniversal.net Their address is 4015 huxford court tampa, fl, 33624 and costumer service number is 1866 7833000

My point with all this is, Is there a way I can check for these people to know for sure is not a scam? because obviously they wanted my credit card number to check, I said I don%26#39;t have with me in the moment so they said that I can call whenever to complete the registration and they will send me all the tickets, etc.

This is my first time writing to this forum so I really don%26#39;t know what to expect. You can see at the webpage that they have organized trips for 100000 families, etc, so I guess if they are the real thing, some travel agencies will know about them, right?

If you have any ideas about my case I will really appreciate it.

Thank you very much

Traveluniversal, is it the real thing or a scam?

Point A would be a basic lesson in Internet safety. Never give out any personal info over a transaction you did not initiate--i.e. pop-up ads, junk email, etc. You weren%26#39;t even looking for travel to begin with. You said you were just listening to music. They put that ad up there to hook you into giving out your info.

Point B would be of COURSE IT%26#39;S A SCAM!

Traveluniversal, is it the real thing or a scam?

I should also mention as a warning that this very post could be a guise to get someone to go to the website. Who knows what kind of spyware they have running on there. Don%26#39;t cut and paste, folks!

Always be leery. A common ploy down here in Florida is the time-share game. They basically give you two or three nights free in a hotel but in exchange you have to sit through many hours of time share selling meetings. That might be what you have. Or you can check with the better business bureau www.bbbonline.com and type in their name to see if there have been any complaints. Either way, I would be nervous. Florida, unfortunately, is a land of scams, and I would be very hesitant and cautious to give out my cc number to anyone I%26#39;ve never heard of. Hell, a flight from Southwest Air doesn%26#39;t cost nearly what you%26#39;ll pay if you get taken.

VARIATION ON A THEME.....

I have experienced a variation on the old timeshare condo sales pitch.

The call comes from a ';travel company'; that offers a free caribbean cruise, airline tickets to Las Vegas or Los Angeles AND ';gas money'; for coming to their office and a free dinner at a local restaurant.

What do I have to do? Go to their office and consider ';using their travel service'; for my future travel plans.

What does it turn out to be? A pitch to BUY A FRANCHISE from them so that I can become my OWN TRAVEL AGENT and get ';industry discounts'; when I make my travel reservations.

It may be ';legal'; but I find it unethical to operate a ';travel agency'; just so I can get travel discounts. In addition, in order to do it right you will have to get licenses, file reports with the state and the federal government, etc. Things that they don%26#39;t mention during the sales pitch.

--------

And with regard to the original posting on this site: OF COURSE it is a scam; and/or the posting itself is a scam intended to get you to visit the web site so you can have some spyware installed on your computer!

Hi, i received the same call today and i wonder if it%26#39;s true or not...please can someone help me

edg3crusher@hotmail.com

The address for Travel Universal is that of a PRIVATE RESIDENCE in a RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOOD located a couple of miles from my house in suburban Tampa, Florida.

The tax records show that it is the property of a 62 year old female. I am not including her name and telephone number, but a diligent investigator could discover them by searching the address in the records of the Hillsborough County Tax Collector, followed by a name search on the web site called Zabasearch.

If you are comfortable doing business with a private individual working out of a private residence - that is your choice.

One last word of opinion. If someone offers you something of value, they must have a motive. Usually they expect to sell you something that will make them a profit which is well beyond what they have offered you. Obviously they don%26#39;t sell the product to everyone who accepts the offer, so the product must be highly overpriced to cover the expense of giving away the something of value to many people, while making relatively few sales.

If an offer seems too good to be true - it probably is.

And in the words of P.T. Barnum: ';There%26#39;s a sucker born every minute.';

Hi leito13,

I%26#39;m having the same problem i am thinking of buying a time share at the Orange Lake country Club Orlando and i%26#39;m all ways worried that they could be scams or rip offs, I wondering if you have come across OLCC in your web browsing. We went on a tour of the place and it seems a great place but!!!!!!

Regards Paul

Why don%26#39;t you hop on over to the E Bay site and see that they are selling Orange Lake Country Club for as little as $299 by people desperate to unload theirs. If you reallly liked the place , buy it from someone else ( though I don%26#39;t recommend that either) rather than at the incredible price you would pay to the timeshare vultures.

I always follow my instincts and a golden rule - If in doubt don%26#39;t !

This sounds like a variation of a scam to get your credit card details.

No-one gives anything away for nothing, besides which, if you have won a prize, why do they need your credit card details?

If you have genuinely won then there should be nothing to pay.

We have had a number of similar scams in the U.K., one of which is to say you have won a prize but you need to pay a service fee, but the goods or services never appear.

regards

Gismo

I know this is an older post but I wanted to add my 2 cents to this anyway.

First, I am a travel agent. I have worked from my home for 6 yrs and in the industry for 12 yrs this coming December. I can not say this loud enough and clear enough.....NO LEGITIMATE TRAVEL AGENCY WILL CONTACT YOU TO WORK FOR THEM UNLESS YOU CONTACT THEM FIRST AND ARE A CURRENT AGENT W/A DEGREE!! If you get a call like this one poster here did, you can be assured it is a scam.

Yes, travel agents do get some travel discounts and benefits but nothing like we did 8-10 yrs ago. It%26#39;s the love of the business that keeps current agents in the field. If you are promised unlimited travel benefits, run in the opposite direction b/c you%26#39;re looking at a major problem!!

Hope that helps some. If you%26#39;d like any other info, post here and I%26#39;ll answer any questions you have.

GOOD LUCK!!

Karen

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Gasparilla 2007 - Tampa Bay - Information

January 20th - Gasparilla Extravaganza(Pirate Battle, Air Show, Fireworks) http://gasparillapiratefest.com/

January 27th - Gasparilla Pirate Fest(Pirate Invasion, Parade, Festival) http://gasparillapiratefest.com/

Februaury 10th - Gasparilla Illuminated Night Parade - St Yago Knight Parade http://www.kreweofsantyago.com/index.htm

February 16/17/18th - Gasparilla Distance Run Events http://www.tampabayrun.com/site3.aspx

March 3/4th - Gasparilla Festival of the Arts http://www.gasparilla-arts.com/

Gasparilla 2007 - Tampa Bay - Information

I%26#39;ve got a question that might be a bit silly...

Can I dress up as a pirate?? I%26#39;ve gone to a couple of the children%26#39;s parades in the past and have seen the kids dressing up. But I don%26#39;t recall seeeing any adults dressing up. I just won bleacher seat tickets from a radio station and I%26#39;m not sure if they%26#39;ll allow me to enter that section dressed as a pirate.

Thanks!

Maureen

Gasparilla 2007 - Tampa Bay - Information

Of course you can dress as a pirate!!! Many of my friends a re parents of little ones, and partake in the festivities during the ';Extravaganza'; weekend by dressing up with their kids...and we all know that adult pirates are all over the place for the :Pirate Fest'; the weekend after.

Thanks for the reply!! Arrggh,

Does anyone know how I can contact one of the Krewes for the celebration? I am wanting to see if I can get some help making a video with one of them. Thanks.

For a listing of some fo the krewes, go to this site and scroll down to Gasparilla Krewes. There webistes are all on there.

intampaflorida.com/static/about_organization鈥?/a>

Also, there may be information and contacts at the Gasparilla Website:

www.gasparillapiratefest.com

Better yet...here ya go:

http://www.interkrewe.org/directory.html

What is all this about? When I go to the piratefest link I see nothing but a black page. Wassup? I will be in Tampa starting on the 10th for 10 days. Are there other things to see/do related to this whatever it is?

Thanks,

dragon

The settings on your comuter must not be correct. Here is the link again:

http://gasparillapiratefest.com/

Also get todays paper, OR just go to tbo.com.

night parade

What is the pacific date for the night parade. can anyone help me out

night parade

Check at www.gasparillapiratefest.com

night parade

Feb. 10, 2007

When I go to that web page I see an entirely black blank page. Is there another place to see information? What is the night parade???

Thanks,

dragon

try this link:

http://www.kreweofsantyago.com/

or go to tbo.com

Tampa Airport Overnight Layover Hotel

Have to stay over one night in February for airport layover. Looking for a reasonably priced, reliable, clean hotel with free airport shuttle service and reaonably priced restaurant(s) within walking distance.

Tampa Airport Overnight Layover Hotel

Check Days Inn, Howard Johnson, Holiday Inn, all on Dale Mabry.

Tampa Airport Overnight Layover Hotel

Reasonalbly Priced, Clean Hotel with Shuttle and Restaurants walking distance: Holiday Inn Experss, Hampton Inn on Rocky Point(adjacent to Bahama Breeze restuarant, about 5 min to airport)

spring training

I%26#39;m coming down for two weeks (March 8th-22nd). I plan on going to baseball games in the day and bars in the night. I will probably stay in a motel, since I do not plan on spending much time in my room. I would love to be in walking distance of either good pubs or knology park. I%26#39;m considering Clearwater beach, clearwater or Dunedin. Is there eneugh going on at night time in Dunedin or should I be closer to Clearwater or Clearwater beach? I%26#39;m 35 and not into clubs, more pubs. Thanks Neil

spring training

If you want to be close to pubs, not clubs near Knology Park, Dunedin as a nice Main Street with a few pubs(Dunedin Brewery), and downtown Clearwater also has a few. Clearwater Beach has mostly beach bars.

If you would be into the drive..Tampa has numerous pubs walking distance to hotels-in Ybor City(James Joyce, Blues SHark, Irish Pub, Bobble Dopper, It%26#39;s a Shame Bar, Elmers, Tampa Bay Brewing Company)just to name a few.

Weather in Clearwater

My husband %26amp; i are hoping to have 2 weeks in Clearwater the last week of jan 2008 and the 1st week of feb.

What will the weather be like then?

Just planning again as it will be nice to see some sunshine in jan, and escape the cold british winter days!!!!!

Weather in Clearwater

Chances are that you will get a few sunshiny days. But a whole year out in advance, it%26#39;s anyone%26#39;s guess.

Weather in Clearwater

Chuts is right. Very hard to tell. Any week in the Winter, Dec, Jan Feb can be in the low 80%26#39;s. The next week (or day) can be a high only in the 50%26#39;s. Really depends when the cold fronts come through. Last week we were in the low 80%26#39;s, today we probably won%26#39;t see 60*!!

If you%26#39;re here for 2 weeks, you%26#39;ll have some nice weather. Maybe a day or two of rain, and some chillier days.

Thanks guys for your replies. After some thought we will delay our trip till late april, %26amp; early may, so then we can enjoy the weather.

By that time it will be hot and humid ... are you ready for that end of the weather spectrum, LOL. But with the breezes by the beach it will not be too bad. You%26#39;ll need lots of sunscreen.

I%26#39;m in Clearwater Beach now...and can tell you this...IT%26#39;S COLD! In fact, the TV weather stated it%26#39;s the coldest in 73 years.

Hotels at Florida State University

I will be staying over 1 night at FSU to see the school. Can anyone recommend what hotels to saty at. Lokking for cheap, clean and safe.

Hotels at Florida State University

La Quinta is cheap %26amp; safe but not clean. Our rooms smelled awful and the free breakfast was stale bagels. When we complained about the room they took 10 of the bill but would not change our room or offer to clean it. We were woken up at 3 am the first night when their automated wake up call system called us. the 2nd nite we were woken at 2 by college kids putting a canoe in the pool and partying.

Hotels at Florida State University

Since you are visiting FSU, call or e-mail the FSU visitors center and ask them for a recommendation.

http://www.visit.fsu.edu/

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Shuttle service from Sheraton Studio City

Hello

From March 1 to March 10 we will be staying with another couple at Sheraton Studio City. Since there will be four adults and four children we are concerned about depending totally on the shuttle service. We will be taking an infant along with stroller to the the various parks. What I would like to know is if the shuttle service is dependable? What parks it travels too? and if it is overcrowded from picking up at other hotels? I would not want to have to stand with a three month old and don%26#39;t want to rely on the kindness of strangers to give me a seat. Would we be better off renting a passenger van even though they are very expensive?

Thanks so much for any help.

Shuttle service from Sheraton Studio City

Rent a vehicle, depending where your hotel is on the pick-up point they can be crowded and your on their timetable, they pick up in the morning and than again at the end of the day, if you want to leave the park early your out of luck.

Shuttle service from Sheraton Studio City

I just did a quick search, a rental from March 1 to the 10 at Budget is $446 with tax, and thats not even using one of their discount codes that you can find from them. I don%26#39;t think that a ';very expensive%26#39; price for a 10 day rental that includes all taxes. Thats a pretty good price and as I said I didn%26#39;t even use any discounts codes.

SALSA CLUBS? What about Little Havana?

Are there any salsa clubs? And we have been to South Beach many times, but wanted to check out Little Havana. We speak spanish, so that%26#39;s cool.Thanks!

SALSA CLUBS? What about Little Havana?

Sam%26gt;

All things salsa here:

www.salsapower.com/cities/fl/dade_clubs.htm

If you will be here on a Friday - check out

www.salsamia.com

AG

High-Speed catamaran to Key West?

How much? How often does it run? How long does it take?

High-Speed catamaran to Key West?

Sam%26gt;

That service runs from the west coast of Florida - not Miami...

http://www.seakeywestexpress.com/default3.htm

AG

some good things can happen

We just came back from Disney and I must say i was really impressed: My nephew lost his autograph book somewhere, well, just the other day he received a letter and his book from Mickey. The letter said Mickey had found the book and got all the signatures my nephew missed....wow

when at Disney, our Magic fireworks voyage was cxled because boat broke down...mgmt refunded 50%of our money without my having to chase them

I must say.....Disney has impressed me....Tootsie

some good things can happen

Hi tootsie!

That%26#39;s an adorable story thank for sharing it and yes good things do happen. And it%26#39;s great you received a 50 percent refund!!! Glad Disney treated you well!

some good things can happen

Thanks Tootsie, that%26#39;s a great story. How did they know it was your boy%26#39;s book? Was your address in it? I think that would be a good tip. My daughter would have been devastated if she lost her autograph book. In the future I will be sure to write name %26amp; adress in the inside cover just in case. Also, why did they only refund 50% of the $ ? Was that your deposit, or did they keep 50%? hardly seem fair. Wouldn%26#39;t you have been more impressed though if the boat hadn%26#39;t failed in the first place? (Now I%26#39;m being the Devil%26#39;s advocate! lol)

I did not dare say anything for fear of being %26#39;orrible negative - I personally would have been hopping mad if I had not got the FULL refund AND some form of compensation for wasted time. I think they got off lightly.

If that is disney at their best -

well %26#39;nuff said I spose

what good news about the autograph book, made a note to put my babes address in hers! thanks

Where is a good inexpensive place to find autograph books? I will need to buy 3 so it will add up!

I was actually thinking the same thing...if their boat broke down, you should get the full refund. It%26#39;s not like you cancelled. I would actually fight for the rest.

It was very sweet of them to send you the book though.

In Florida the souvenir shops offer autograph books for $2, while the Disney ones are 6 or 7. They still have Disney scenes on the front, but say ';Florida'; instead of Disney. The only 2 shops I went to are on idrive next to the Premium outlet mall, beside publix. The other is on World Center Drive, beside ponderosa, across from Caribe Royale. If you%26#39;re staying on Disney property, it%26#39;s just a shot up from the epcot entrance. i%26#39;m sure all souvenir shops carry them. I actually prefer the choices to the standard Disney book.

Thanks! We are staying on International Dr so I will get them there! Every penny saved helps!

Another idea would even be to get the kids to ';make'; their own before you leave. Just get some inexpensive sturdy notebooks and have the kids decorate them themselves - stickers, drawings etc etc.

Might get the kids ';feelin the magic'; even before you leave. Not that they won%26#39;t be excited enough........

Good idea to put name and address in - thanks. I%26#39;ll be doing that later this year ! Can%26#39;t imagine the devasation caused by a lost authgraph book !

Tootsie - baby.

This is still bugging me.

You should write back and complain because from what you have said they should have refunded you AT LEAST in full.

Far from being a %26#39;well done disney letter%26#39; as healin might propose I would take them to the cleaners because they have charged you for something you did not get. I would have hoped healin would have supported this course of action. I would suggest this is below their usual standards.

I feel bad for you because you are forgiving person but unless you and others complain I am sure they will pull the same trick again.

How many were on the boat with you ? - I bet it ended up an early but profitable night for the boatmen.

hotel

can anyone suggest an inexpensive and at the same time decent budget hotel in south beach by collins ave ,i%26#39;m planning to go between april 27 and 29. thanks

hotel

Ed%26gt;

Atlantica Hotel and Suites, Villa Paradiso, The Clay

AG

Sunshine Island Inn

Hi...my sister %26amp; I are staying at the Sunshine Island Inn - has anyone stayed here before? I%26#39;d like to hear your comments. Thanks.

Sunshine Island Inn

I have not personally stayed at the Sunshine Island Inn, but it has caught my attention as a reasonably priced option, especially for stays of less than one week. My impression was that it is a quiet, laid back, pleasant base for a Sanibel vacation. Not upscale like some of the condominiums and hotels, but seems to offer a friendly and hospitable atmosphere across the street from the beach

I was actually looking at it just several days ago...thinking I might pop down for a few days while other family members are vacationing on the island in March. Please let us know about your experience when you return. Hope it turns out to be an enjoyable one. Thanks!

Sunshine Island Inn

For what ever reason we hear very little about Sunshine Island Inn. Like most places on Sanibel it looks nice from the outside and it has a decent location, even though its off-beach. Be sure to come back and let us know how you found the place.

Below is just one of nine reviews of the Sunshine Island Inn found here on Trip Advisor. Most of them were highly favorable as is this one. Hope you find it reassuring!

';We stayed for four nights at this incredible place with 5 units around a pool and very close access to a superb beach of white sand and lots of shells (across the street). Our unit had a microwave, two electric elements, a coffee maker, a fridge, a TV, a VCR a complete but small bathroom and two double beds. Everything was very clean when we arrived. There was no daily cleaning but we could get clean towels daily and we could wash our clothes by ourselves for free (including soap!) Our daughter could choose from a selection of beach toys, we could use bicycles, beach chairs, beach unbrellas and BBQ. Most importantly, it was very quiet (like most of Sanibel Island) and very pleasant and relaxing. We could have a drink or eat outside while our daugher would play in the pool or would be in bed. Very confortable beds. Free local calls. Binder of information on the Island in the room. Plates, glasses, utensils also provided. Friendly staff. Clean pool. A bit old and not everything is in perfect condition. We were really happy to have spent our time there. We would certainly go back and recommend it if you want to enjoy some quiet time in a nice environment.';

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Hotel/Hostel Suggestions for South Beach

Hi,

I%26#39;m heading to SOuth Beach in Feb and need a good, inexpensive and safe hotel/hostel for my stay. Any suggestions?

Thanks

K

Hotel/Hostel Suggestions for South Beach

Kat%26gt;

Best option is the Clay on Espanola.

If they are booked, look into the Villa Paradiso, the Greenview, and the Atlantica Suites.

Info:

hostelworld.com/findabed.php/ChosenCity.Miam鈥?/a>

AG

Question for SRQGirl

Thanks so much for your reply. Here are the places I%26#39;m looking at that have availability March 14-19 for 5 nights. We would like to have 2 bedrooms and a pool for under $200 per night. We%26#39;ll have 2 adults and a 7 year old (who would love to have oher kids around to play with!) If you have time, would you take a look at these and let me know which one you think might be best. I truly appreciate your expertise!

You can email me directly at morochm@friscoisd.org

Siesta Key Cottage

vacationrentals.com/vacation-rentals/3409.ht…

Pigeon Toed Pelican Inn tarponrealty.com/rentals/properties/2138.php

Addy%26#39;s Nokomis Villas

www.addysnokomisvillas.com

Question for SRQGirl

I have to be honest here. I don%26#39;t think any of these would be fun for your 7 year old. If a kids not happy, you%26#39;re not happy, either.

I would pay a few dollars more and stay in a motel like Tropical Shores Resort on Siesta Key. This is a family oriented place.

There are many others. Go to the top of this page and click on Hotels and read some reviews of the best rated motels.

There are other options on the mainland (Sarasota).

You can try Timberwoods on Beneva Rd.

You can also try www.siesta4rent.com or www.vrbo.com for condo options.

Anna Maria Island could be good too.

If none of these work, let me know.

Your problem is twofold. You are dealing with Spring Break prices and things book up way in advance this time of year.

Never fear, you%26#39;ll find something.

~SRQgirl

Question for SRQGirl

Thank you so much! I will keep looking!

Where to watch SB

Any suggestions on where to watch the Super Bowl in Miami or close by? We will be in town for the festivities, but can%26#39;t afford the game. Looking for a restaurant or bar with big screen or multiple tvs. We are staying in Aventura area.

Thanks!

Where to watch SB

TV%26gt;

Head over to 163rd Street west of Collins -

1. The NMB ale house will be BUZZING!

or

2. There are brand new flat TVs in the bar at Paquito%26#39;s and delicious Mexican food/drink at 163rd/US 1

AG

Where to watch SB

Advisor Girl:

Thanks so much! This is exactly the info I%26#39;m looking for :-) as we are staying at Yacht Club in Aventura %26amp; these looks to be close :-)

We are in the 50 - 60 age group %26amp; not looking for a place where we don%26#39;t fit in.

That Apache Landing Bar %26amp; Grill on NE 29th Ave looks to have multiple tvs, too, %26amp; reviews say it is a good place for game watching, too. Do you know anything about this place?

I appreciate your help!

US Airways info needed

Hi,

This may seem like a silly question, but do US Aiways have tv%26#39;s in the seat backs?

I have only flown with Virgin to Orlando before and have just had a major panic that my son will be bored?

Many thanks

US Airways info needed

They had seat back tv%26#39;s when i flew from Gatwick-Charlotte a couple of years ago

US Airways info needed

Last I flew US they had drop down TV%26#39;s not individual TV%26#39;s.

Photographer?

Hi

Can anyone reccomend a good but reasonably priced photographer based in Sarasota?

We%26#39;re looking to have some family pics taken on the beach.

Thanks

Photographer?

Susie Chinn of www.SusiesParadisePortraits.com she is amazing, great photographer and super sweet. She specialies in beach family photos.

Photographer?

Thanks for that, I%26#39;ve just had a look at her website and her work looks fantastic.

Just dropped her an email to enquire about costs etc.

Thanks again

Hi SunnySarasota

Just to let you know that I contacted Susie Chinn and she has been fantastic! I%26#39;ve received some wonderful advice from her and it looks like she will be taking our photographs while we%26#39;re visiting Sarasota in July.

Thanks again

Annette

how is treasure island's beach?

I read somewhere that the frontage at the beaches on Treasure Island is lousy - can anyone give me some info on this? Please let me know if Treasure Island is a nice beach - last year we went to St. Pete%26#39;s Beach and it was nice - a little honkey tonk though! The beach was very pretty though. How is Treasure Island overall? Is it honkey tonk like St. Pete%26#39;s? Is it a quieter place than St. Pete%26#39;s? Thanks for any help you can give - we are contemplating a trip and not sure where to go this summer! Thanks!

how is treasure island's beach?

Go to treasureislandbeachtrail.com. There is a nice shot of the beach in the header.

how is treasure island's beach?

Hmm. HonkyTonk as in cheap, tawdry and disreputable. Not how I would describe it.

Maybe you should check out Sand Key, near Clearwater Beach. Nice expansive beach.

Susi,

Treasure Island Beach is beautiful, been to many other beaches

worldwide, this place is great!

Its not honkytonk at all, you were misinformed.

I have been goin there for years, and keep coming back.

Its very laid-back and everyones friendly, if you go once you will

be hooked!

Check the place out, you wont regret it! Check out Pageterrace.com,

great place on the beach to stay!

Ellen

Treasure Island Beach is my favourite place on earth to go. I absolutely love it. I%26#39;m literally counting down the months and days until I go there in the summer. I find it very peaceful.

I live on Sunset Beach, Treasure Island. If you are looking for a beautiful beach with wide open water and very few people then you have found heaven on earth. It doesn%26#39;t get any better than this in Florida!

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sheraton studio city

has anyone stayed at the sheraton studio city,what was it like nice good etc.

sheraton studio city

If you haven%26#39;t already, check the user reviews for the resort by plugging in ';Sheraton Studio City'; in the search box in the upper left hand corner of the page. Then click on the hotel, and I%26#39;m sure you%26#39;ll find plenty of reviews. There may also be a place to click on any other forum mentions of the hotel.

sheraton studio city

hi am wendy. i haven%26#39;t actually stayed there but i have seen it and i would not recomment it at all. the area is very shabby and needs a good clean etc. you would be better going to the other end of international drive where the area is smart and clean. nearer seaworld. i stayed at quality inn plaza international drive last year and that was wonderful. good service and good location for the shops and i ride to attractions. better still stay in disney thats where i am staying this year. port orleans riverside. 2nd time there,you can always trust disney hotels.

wendy27a

Hi

I havent actually stayed there but i was considering it last year when it was 4 star in all brochures. This year I was looking to book again and noticed that in some brochures it had dropped a star...... so i didnt consider it

well there are good reviews on here about it.

sheraton studio city

has anyone seen or stayed here,seen reviews and most are good so is anyone got any personal opinions or tips on it?

sheraton studio city

You didn%26#39;t like the answers you got yesterday when you asked this question?

sheraton studio city

i havnt posted this before

Maybe you should click on your name and see the past posts you made.

it said it wouldnt let me yesterday.

Super Bowl Sunday

Hi All,

We are flying into Ft. Lauderdale on Feb 3rd, staying over a friends house in Margate and then driving down to Key West. When I planned this, I had no idea the Superbowl was on Sunday the 4th and in Miami. Any traffic issues going south that day. Also we had planned to stay in Margate until Monday, but wanted to watch the games in the Keys. Any suggestions as far as where to stop overnight? Key Largo, Islamarodor (sp?). I need to book a room for that night. Any help will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Steve

boat rentals in treasure island

My family will be visiting treasure island late march-early april. My son would love to wake board. I know that wave runners, and boats are available to rent at John%26#39;s Pass, but are pretty expensive. Does anyone know of a more reasonably priced place to rent from, and if wakeboarding gear is available for rent?

boat rentals in treasure island

You can go to the south end of Treasure Island, just over the bridge and on the left hand side by Bouy%26#39;s restaurant is a place called Frenchy%26#39;s jet ski and boat rental. I have heard he is reasonable and they are very nice people.

Florida resident discount?

It%26#39;s me again. Looks like the grandparents may join us for at least part of our visit to the Disney area. My question is can we all take advantage of their Florida resident disount or only them? What about my children at least? I know the theme parks offer it but what about hotels?

We are looking at a few off site hotels with suites for late April but have not booked yet because our dates are still not final. I intend to start checking around again, but can anyone here recommend a nice place, preferably one that will offer a resident discount also. I was looking at regular suites and 1 bedrooms but it looks like we will need two bedrooms now (4 adults, 2 young children) so that changes things a bit. Thanks!

Florida resident discount?

I have a grandmother that lives in Petersburg and we were going to have her get our tickets but everyone that is comingin must have id that have a Florida address so you might not want to do that your grandparents would get a discount and they have to show there id everytime cause thay get a big discount for being Florida residents

Florida resident discount?

TimesTwo,

You have to show ID for the discount PER PERSON. I was goin to do this last Dec when i was there with my parents as I still have a Florida driving licence - in the end we bought used tickets for $35 into Epcot though, lol.

the grandparents can book the hotel room and get a florida residence discount.... hotels run these types of promotions all year long... some do... some dont just have to look it up. The grandparents in AARP, yall have AAA? both will provide additional discounts! check with the hotels you like best to see which has the best deal. sometimes you have to call because they wont post it on their website.

Vegas you don%26#39;t seem like your a nice person on every board you say something negative which isn%26#39;t nicce be nice

Poke,

Well said. Unfortunately there are a few of those on here, most of the things he says are intended on upsetting or %26#39;winding people up%26#39;..........best way to deal with people like that is to completely ignore them - he uses the website as a chatroom.

Have a great day :))

You can%26#39;t use a Florida resident discount at Disney unless you have a Florida drivers license or government issued ID so only your grandparents can get the tickets discounted. However,they can make the hotel reservation and get the Florida discount on that for all of you as long as they are there to check in with you. Check www.disneyworld.com to see what discounts are being offered for your vacation time,sometimes they are great,sometimes not.If you look at www.orlandoinfo.com,they list non-Disney hotels with florida resident discounts.But tickets,you%26#39;ll have to pay full price for.

My family likes the Staybridge Suites LBV very much,the two bedroom suites are quite spacious,have a full kitchen,reasonable price,convenient location and breakfast is included. The staff is very nice and I think yu%26#39;d find this to be a good choice. The Residence Inn is also very nice,a little more pricey though. If you wawnt to be closer to Disney,coonsider getting 2 one bedroom suites at the Doubletree Guest Suites at Downtown Disney-www.mousesavers.com has great prices on them and then you have convenience to Disney without paying Disney prices.

Thank you for your responses. Initially I was taken aback by Vegas%26#39; post at first but then decided to just let it roll. We have several family members and good friends in SE Florida and whenever we visit we find that most year round residents are very hospitable because they know us ';Tourons'; help keep their economy going! I also live and work in NYC so I know a thing or two about tourists myself.

I will check out the suite hotels that were mentioned and see if they offer resident or AARP discounts for the inlaws. My mother in law stayed in the Sheraton Vistana a few years ago and liked it, but the mixed reviews have me nervous. The suite will be on us so if we can take advantage of their resident discount to save some $ that would be nice. I was asking about the parks because I went to Disney many years while in college with a resident and she was able to buy the discounted tickets for both of us, they never asked for my ID. Long time ago though. Can they use their discount for my 4 year old twins? I am not sure how a preschooler would prove where they live anyway :).

times two.... You make a great point... why not use the ticket for them? but.... do not enter all together through the same turnstyle... or purchase from the same ticketer... they will catch on.

way to stick it to the man. :)

but really, i dont see why it wouldn%26#39;t work.

Any Red Tide in the Destin/Ft. Walton areas?

We missed the Red Tide when we were in Longboat Key this winter but the tour guide described what sounded like a vacationer%26#39;s nightmare. Any problem here?

Any Red Tide in the Destin/Ft. Walton areas?

Not lately.

Any Red Tide in the Destin/Ft. Walton areas?

coxy29a:

We%26#39;re considering vacation in Longboat Key at end of March. What was the story on the red tide there?

Like I mentioned, when we were there in December there was none and the water was spectacular but we went on a boat tour and the guide said that in the summer it was awful-been getting worse every year. I%26#39;ve read that it will just about ruin your vacation if it%26#39;s there when you are-even breathing is awful from the toxic fumes. We absolutely ADORED Longboat Key and that whole area. It did seem that most of the people there were older/retired-I really didn%26#39;t see much family action on LB Key itself--more on Anna Maria.

Coxy29a

Thanks for the reply. I have read that some people suffer respiratory illnesses for up to a year after being exposed to red tide as well as blistering rashes. Kinda makes you wonder if it is worth it!

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What to pack

We%26#39;re staying at Floridays. Do we need to pack things like laundry detergen and dishsoap? Any other tips are welcome and appreciated...

What to pack

Hmmmm...I cannot recall if they provided laundry detergent because I always travel with a few of the compressed laundry detergent tablets and a couple of dryer sheets so I may have used those. However, I know I didn%26#39;t bring dish soap and that was provided along with a couple of dishwasher packets. I believe there were a couple of starter coffee packets as well as several microwave popcorn. If you find you need something after you arrive, a Publix grocery and a Walgreens are in the mini-mall just a few hundred yards up the road.

Floridays provided all the kitchen amenities you might want as well as small toiletries for bathroom. There was an ABUNDANCE of towels and they graciously give you more at the front desk should you need them.

Lucky you...we had a wonderful stay at Floridays and hope you will have the same. Request building ';B'; if you want to be near the main pool.

What to pack

Thanks Grandma Mac, I did request bldg. B

Thanks Grandma Mac, I did request bldg. B

Think the question was a wrong one;

Should have been What ';Not'; to pack, Answer ; The kitchen sink

I would have thought you could have bought all your favorite brands when you get there

Publix is right next door, and the prices there are very reasonable. Especially compared to New York Prices. I bought fabric softener sheets and detergent there. There was an initial supply of laundry and dish detergent provided, and you could probably ask for extra if you need it.

Have a great trip.

Very helpful... thank you

Location on Oakaloosa Island

Interested in a condo in the Cloisters complex on Sundial Ct. On the map it looks like it%26#39;s at the Elgin Airforce end. Is that good?

Location on Oakaloosa Island

Coxy, Yes we think it is because you%26#39;re closer to the end of the condos %26amp; it%26#39;s not as crowded. You can walk a very short distance %26amp; have the beach to yourself. It%26#39;s next door to Emerald Towers West, where we stay every year. It looks like a nice place with big balconies facing the gulf.

Location on Oakaloosa Island

Thanks SWB!

We stayed near that end of the Island as well and the beach at the base is nice and desolete. Walk down the beach at the base at low tide and you%26#39;ll find lots of shells. The further we went, the more shells we found.

Dolly Parton Dixie Stampede

My husband loves Dolly. We are staying near this venue and he would love to go. What is it like?, is it suitable for kids 9 %26amp; 4? and where is the best place to buy tickets?

Dolly Parton Dixie Stampede

Long as your husband realizes Dolly won%26#39;t really be there, you shouldn%26#39;t be disappointed.

I%26#39;ve been to this same venue in Pigeon Forge and it is very suitable for children if they like horses and rodeo-type stuff.

Not sure if discount tickets are available for this or not, but I%26#39;ll bet there are coupons in those numerous coupon books for it.

Dolly Parton Dixie Stampede

You can buy on internet here or probably in your hotel.we intend to go in march ( 7 weeks to go)our hotel is very close as well marriot village).........enjoy from another fifer...............

Is the food good though? I%26#39;m thinking of going there too..... and I%26#39;m bringing my 3 year old son...

could someone lemme know the location of the show? im thinking of going but we arent hiring a car...thanks

Went 2 years ago. Great show, food was so-so. Chicken was dry as dust. Could have improved since then. It is right next to the Lake Buena Vista Factory Outlet stores.

We went to this last fall. The food was good, but messy to eat. It is generally the best food of the lot of all the dinner shows in the area, as per the concierge at the desk of the hotel we stayed at. The seating is in long rows, so if you%26#39;re going with a big group you won%26#39;t all be able to talk to each other.

Hi, We went to Dolly Partons Stampede two years ago, It%26#39;s a really great dinner show. There are two shows one before the dinner show itself, with songs and horse tricks and then you move into the arena for the dinner show itself.You choose which side to support, Confederates or Union and spend the evening shouting for them. We thought the evening was very good value, and the meal good. entertainment brilliant.

You ask about the children, Your 9 year old will love it and possibly the 4 year old too, however it is noisy and you sit in a circle around the centre ring, the meal is set, soup, a whole chicken each ( but small ) so it might just be too much for a little one.

It isn%26#39;t a long show, but a really good evening. You can also visit the stables during the day and the youngsters will love that, no charge that I remember for this.

The show is near the PREMIUM OUTLETS which is marked on most maps, and is very easy to get to. good parking.

Hope this helps.

Hi Hank72

This is our 1st time to Florida and are booked at the Marriott Village as well. Thought Dolly would be good for a night out - not far away. It would be great if you could let me know how you get on with hotel,near by restaurant/bars,shopping etc. Wish we only had 7 wks to go - the kids talk about Disney 24/7!!!

Enjoy

hi we went (two boys 10 and 7 +husband) in april 06 we bought are tickets from keith prowse direct we booked early and got a good deal, kids free , they change offfers quite reguarly so not sure what deals now, but that was a great saving thats why we chose it 0ver medieval times, its situated at the end of the i drive trolley run, another reason we chose it, cause we dont drive in florida we just hopped on the trolley and hopped off right outside our hotel kids were free on the trolley as well, my too really enjoyd it, you have to be able to let yourself go a bit ie. sing clap cheer, there is a sing song and comedian before the main show and then you go into the big arena and you choose what side you wanna cheer for its really good fun, and at times funny, the food was chicken, corn, american biscuit, soup, bbq porK,AND A DANISH/PIE THING AND A SODA this is all in the price and you eat it in front of you whilst your watching the show, its served by waiters to you(dont forget a tip) you dont get to see dolly only on the big screen, but its a good sing song on her behalf, check the website out www.dixiestampede.com

Are the songs Dolly Parton songs or other to fit in with the show?

all the best

HeathersDad

Tpiing onthe Dining Plan ?

Hi

I am getting a bit confused. I am sure I read somewhere that the dining plan included the service charge, but yesterday I read that it pays to tip?

I am happy to tip extra for very good, kind, or considerate service - but should I tip everyone else as well? Any opinions most welcome!

Thanks. Mandy

Tpiing onthe Dining Plan ?

oh gawd, tipping! Good luck Mandy.

Tpiing onthe Dining Plan ?

Yes Carla - I didn%26#39;t realise I%26#39;d made a typo until I had posted it!! Sounds far more interesting though, doesn%26#39;t it ! LOL

Mandy

No mandy do not apologise this is a very sensible question. The answer of course is yes you should ip everyone especially in Disney where they tell you not to tip. This makes it even more friendly and you are cooperating and adjusting to the different culture. Remember when in Rome ....

numa numa hey

Here%26#39;s what I was told - can%26#39;t vouch for the accuracy.

The tip is included in the dining plan but it is handled a little differently for non-Disney restaurants. For example, Raglan Road is on the dining plan but is not a Disney Restaurant. The server in that case receives a flat $3 per person tip. Our bill for six would%26#39;ve been $175, the tip would%26#39;ve been $18...about 10%. We generally tip 15 - 20% and our server was really wonderful so we added some extra to bring it to where we thought it should be.

Like wow ...

numa numa ho

It was my understanding that the ';tip of 18% of total bill'; is included in the meal plan.

I don%26#39;t know if its a coincidence or not, but whenever we mentioned we had the dining plan last month, the servers were ';all over us'; with prompt attention. Seems like they appreciated the dining plan people a little above the paying customers.

numa numa? Is that Latin for phew?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5UCmo31FNpc

try this link

Ok Vegas, its October, you can let loose on the tipping posts!!!!!!!!

try the link bssd - it is October.

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suggestions for restaurants

We are leaving for a 10 week stay in Daytona Beach at the end of January. Looking forward to our trip! Any suggestions for restaurants, things to do would be appreciated. We have tickets for the Daytona 500 (lucky us!) - any hints regarding that event would be appreciated.

suggestions for restaurants

I will pull up (bump) a post that list some restaurants that people enjoy. Then if you have any questions about specific ones ask! As far as the Daytona 500 goes, search some older posts for info as well. I am sure some that go to this will chime in too, but this will get your started. Have a great time!

suggestions for restaurants

Hi Rock,

If you will be there for 10 weeks -- maybe you could do a weekly post and clue us in!!

Where will you be staying??

Renata

Oh, lucky you!! Hope you have a great time!

10 weeks! wow I wish I was you! haha! I%26#39;m sure you%26#39;ll have a blast,

Enjoy your vacation!

Pibb,

Hi Renata:

Always enjoy reading your posts as well.

We have a 4 week stay in Ormond Beach - another 4 week stay in Daytona Beach Shores - then 2 weeks in St. Augustine. We could not find a condo for the whole 10 weeks - so we will have 3 moves - 3 cleaning bills. But all in all - we feel pretty lucky to be able to have the 10 week stay - and with our dog - we have tickets for the Daytona 500 (dream of mine to go) - we will see a launch at the space center in March - so heh - who could ask for more!

Well it sounds like your in for a treat you get to go to three different beautiful places and you get to see wonderful things! I hope you enjoy your stay!

Pibb,

Rocklake,

Since you%26#39;re a NASCAR fan I think you%26#39;ll enjoy ';The First Turn Lounge';.

It%26#39;s south of US 92 (speedway blvd) on US 1, I%26#39;d say about 5 miles. It is chocked full of race memorablilia. The owner was a personal friend of Dale, Sr so you%26#39;ll see a lot of his stuff there.

We were by there on Saturday and it looks like it%26#39;s gettin a face lift.

The food is ok but the atmosphere makes up for the difference.

Hope you have a great time!!

River Grille

Alfredo%26#39;s

Longhornes

Pibb,

Out of date, but there is an extensive list here:

chefmoz.org/United_States/FL/Daytona_Beach/

I have put together a web page with Daytona Beach Restaurants

daytona-vacation-rental.com/daytona-beach-re…

Would consider reviews if anyone wanted to offer them!!

Renata

west coast bound

hey all you floridians!

we are leaving the keys on the 1st and heading to naples. from there we will be traveling up the west coast of florida up until tampa where we will cut across for a few days in disney. after we get our mickey fix we will head up the east coast from orlando towards savannah.

any must see (s) along the way? places to go, cute towns to visit, amazing restaurants, state parks to camp in with our airstream, touristy sights, bars, nightlife....we are up for and in need of your suggestions!!

many thanks in advance!

lavendula

www.roadtrip.cc

west coast bound

Take a look at Myaaka River State park. It would be a great place to visit and perhaps camp a night or two. Lots to do around Sarasota- Maybe even visit Warm Mineral Springs just south of Sarasota and take a dip in the fountain of youth!

Do they hand out clear plastic bags at Glasgow Airport?

Should we take our own or will they hand them out??

Do they hand out clear plastic bags at Glasgow Airport?

Go to the BAA website for more information, everyone is allowed 1 piece of hand luggage but they are v specific about the size etc.

www.baa.com

Do they hand out clear plastic bags at Glasgow Airport?

thanks I`ve done that but it doesn`t say whether they hand the bags out

Yes they were handing out plastic bags in November when we travelled to Sanford. Also if you but anything in the shops ie. Boots and anything contains liquid they put it in a clear plastic bag for you.

yes i flew back last sat and they have people every where with clear bags so dont worry its very organized and methodical with very little delay but its there for YOUR safety ................ one guy at gatwick complained about having to be seached and he was abrit !! some people.................

were to go?

what places are defo worth going while in florida i know there is hundreds what about places like kennedy space centre

gator land

animal kingdom

busch gardens

were is there lots of wildlife,crocs,geckos ,etc

were to go?

A little more details would help, how old are you, are you going to be with kids, how old are kids, are you going to have your own transporation, what do you already plan on seeing?

were to go?

i plan on seeing them

i have a chilkd of 15 but he loves wildlife

no car.

With out a car it%26#39;s hard to get to some of these plases, if your not going to Disney, Universal or Seaworld travel becomes a hassle. Gatorland is going to involve a taxi or taking public buses which there is no direct bus from I-Drive, also to get to Busch Gardens or Kennedy Space Center (both about 1 1/2 hours away) your%26#39;ll have to get a bus tour to KSC and a FlexPass to get a bus from Seaworld to BG.

Florida is the place for gators not many crocs............

I%26#39;d recommend taking a KSC bus tour. Really found it interesting and the layout is brilliant. When we went KSC was also fairly quite. so brought a nice change to the sometimes hectic parks.

Animal kingdom was also a great day out, though i would recommend getting there early as the animals tend to be most active then. I would also head straight to the Kilimanjaro Safaris first to get a fast pass, as it can get really busy, but is definately worth going on if you like animals.

were is Kilimanjaro Safaris

yes when i say crocs i meen gators too.

i know there not close by but im sure mytravel will do tours there,also going to clearweater,

the animal kingdom what is the best time to go there and what do you see what animals are there?

I%26#39;d recommend you search these forums first as there is already a huge amount of advice there. For instance, search for ';Animal Kingdom';.

Kilimanjaro Safaris is in Animal kingdom and offers a chance to see animals in a %26#39;semi%26#39; natural enviroment, roaming freely, it attempts to reproduce an african safari. Animal kingdom probably only takes around 1/2 a day and i would advise to get there when the park opens

ok great i cant wait to go, i will look,the animal kingdom does that take a day etc ,no website :(

check out http://www.allearsnet.com/ for loads of great disney info

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NO CAR, Fairfield at Bonnet Creek or Cypress Palms

I am planning a trip to orlando with 4 adults and 1 child, so I was just wondering if one resort was located better to attractions one could walk to such as stores or restaurants one is located in lake buena vista and the other kissimmee; also generally how much are taxis from airport to resorts say 20 miles away? Maybe renting a car would be better, but is it difficult to get around? or difficult to find parking at attractions? I welcome any extra tips for a first trip to Disney for twenty year olds and a 5 year old!

Thanks

NO CAR, Fairfield at Bonnet Creek or Cypress Palms

I only know the Fairfield and you cannot walk to stores or restaurants from there..but it%26#39;s a great place to stay and VERY convenient to Disney. Check out the TA reviews. I would definitely advise renting a car,it%26#39;s extremely easy to get around,parking is $10 a day at Disney and $11 at Universal but having the car-and the kitchen at the Fairfield-will let you stock up on groceries so you can save a fortune even if you just buy breakfast stuff and snacks for the parks. My first tip is always the same;reserve at least one character meal. We like Chef Mickey%26#39;s.The photos and memories are priceless,you don%26#39;t have to wait in line to meet Mickey and the food is pretty decent.

fav attraction

What%26#39;s your absolutely favorite can%26#39;t miss favorite attraction at Disney, even give your fav per resort.

It%26#39;s been 10 years since I%26#39;ve been there. Going Nov 10-16, two adults. all tips appreciated.

fav attraction

At Epcot - Soarin

Animal Kingdom - Dinosaur and Kali River Rapids

MGM Studios - Fantasmic and Tower of Terror

Favorite resort - Yacht and Beach Club!

fav attraction

MK-space mountain.

AK-Expedition Everest

Epcot-Soarin

MGM-Fantasmic

MK......People Mover (don%26#39;t laugh)

MGM...Tower of Terror

Epcot...Mission Space

AK.......Kali River Rapids

Resort....Grand Floridian

Disney doesn%26#39;t even get a ride into the top 3 as far as I%26#39;m concerned. Iskands of Adventure%26#39;s Spiderman is No. 1, followed by IoA%26#39;s Rapids ride and The Hulk.

The fave Disney ones are MGM%26#39;s Tower of Terror and bizarrely AK%26#39;s Primaeval Whirl - I don%26#39;t think a rollercoaster%26#39;s ever made me laugh quite so much.

Epcot ~ It%26#39;s a tie: Soarin %26amp; Mission Space (The spinning version)

Magic Kingdom ~ Splash Mountain

MGM ~ Rocking Rollercoaster

Animal Kingdom ~ Expedition Everest (this is my favorite ride out of all the parks!)

Our must-do list :

MK: Pirates of the Caribbean

Big Thunder Mountain RR

Haunted Mansion

Space Mnt

AK: Kilimanjaro Safari

Dinosaur

Everest

Epcot: Soarin%26#39;

Test Track

MK = Space Mountain

Epcot = Test Track +Soaring was cool aswell

MGM = Tower of Terror + fantasmic show

AK = Lion King show and Dinosaur

Magic Kingdom: Obviously the castle,, Philar magic and pirates of the carribean

Animal Kingdom: Everest and Tough to be a bug

Epcot: Soarin and Test Track

MGM: Aerosmith and Tower of Terror

Here goes

Magic Kingdom - Splash Mountain then Space Mountain

Epcot - Test Track then Mission Space - not done Soarin

MGM - Rock n Roller Coaster also Fantasmic

Animal Kingdom - Kali River Papids then Triceratops spin. Also Festival of the Lion King

I agree with earlier poster. Most of my fav rides are in IOA and my fav all time is The Mummy in Universal.

In Disney the 2 that stand out are both in MGM. The Tower of Terror %26amp; Rock n Roller Coaster

Iffy TCD policy ... anyone else come across this?

a friend of mine was about to book with TCD but now isnt so sure ...

they plan to stay in an i-drive hotel for 9 nights and spend the last 5 nights at POR

they wanted to book the disney dining plan for the 5 nights in resort but have been told they cant have them .... first she was told that she couldnt have it at all for less than 7 nights but she challenged this by saying that disney themselves have a 5 night min on this plan and they came back and said ok she could have it .... but then said that she cant have it at all unless she buys the 14 day ultimate ticket from them!!! ....

now I know that the disney take on this is that your diningin plan is based on the number of nights in resort and that they only insist that you have at least 1 days theme park access ....

so, how on earth do TCD think they get away with this one?? and is it even true or just some guy there trying to sell her the extra tickets?? he claimed that its in the contract that TCD have with disney but she asked to see a copy of this and was told that wasnt possible! mmmmmm.......

anyone else heard of this? or anyone actually been told anything different??

thanks

angela

Iffy TCD policy ... anyone else come across this?

Don%26#39;t know about this but I tried to book a flight once with TCD. It was something like 拢250 for a flydrive and they charged about 拢400 extra insurance for the free car hire. I usually book my car with Florida car hire and pay about 拢200 for a Dollar rental for 2 weeks so I asked if I could have a flight only. No problem but the cost then went up to 拢350!

I couldn%26#39;t understand it and the guy on the phone could not come up with a reasonable explanation for the disparity.

Iffy TCD policy ... anyone else come across this?

Profit?

March in Panama City Beach

Grandparents with young grandchildren planning 3 last weeks of March in Panama City. Wondering of it is the place to be with small children during spring break and all the wild and crazy college kids.

Never been there before, but found some beautiful condos that are of interest for rent. Chamber of Commerce informed me that the whole city is not crazy....just certain areas. thnxs for your responses.

tacobill

March in Panama City Beach

tacobill, you can find more low key places. try staying on the west end of the beach. the further you stay from the point where front beach road and thomas drive intersect the better off you will be.

our spring break is the last week of march and by then the college crowd is thinning out. it is usually high school kids by the end of march. we have an 8 year old and we wanted to be close to the action, but not necessarily subject him to keg stands and wet t-shirt contests. we stayed at the beachcomber and it was perfect.

March in Panama City Beach

thanks for your reply melliewags. It sounds like the further west you stay on the beach, the quieter it will be. One more question. Are there plenty of restaurants on the west end?

thnxs: tacobill

There%26#39;s lots of good restaurants on the west end of the beach, Calypso, Boar%26#39;s Head, Mike%26#39;s Diner. And the previous poster is correct, you can avoid the wild spring break crowds by staying down that way.

WalMart loyalty card

Last year when we were in Anaheim, we regularly went to Ralph to get our groceries. On the last but one day, the checkout girl asked if we had a Ralph%26#39;s card, to which we said no. She then asked if we wanted one. We asked if we were allowed and she said yes and promptly gave us the forms, scan our purchased item with the card and we got a pleasant discount. Went back next day and we all got some nice Balantines whiskey,etc which was also on offer at the time to take home and saved a mint.

We have a villa booked and a Walmart is just down the road.

Will they give us one of these loyalty cards so easily too if we asked? Even if we blagged a bit that we%26#39;re here for a few months or so.

It made such a difference last time, so this time i%26#39;d thought its better to find out from day one of our holiday rather that the last!!

Cheers

WalMart loyalty card

Walmart does not have a loyalty program but I think you will find their prices cheaper than the stores that do.

WalMart loyalty card

Winn Dixie do a loyalty card you can apply for but its the only one I know of

albertsons and cvs also do loyalty cards but wal mart or target prices are cheaper across the board...sometimes even with a loyalty card....wmt or tgt don%26#39;t do loyalty cards

What is best on using Disney's Magic Express Service

I signed up for the Magic Express service at Orlando Airport for our trip Aug. 13-19. I have read a lot of reviews on the good and bad of this service. Many say even with the service collect your luggage yourself and then head to the bus. I have also read horror stories of luggage not arriving for as many hours as 3 to 6! Is that true? We are staying at POR Fr. Qt. Also, that on the return it can be a problem getting to the airport on time for your flight. I need help with this very confusing service since many different reports are being written. Thanks!!!

What is best on using Disney's Magic Express Service

I%26#39;ve used Disney%26#39;s Magical Express at least three times without any problems. I cannot imagine how you could be late for a return flight - we were always required to leave the resort about 3 hrs prior to the flight.

The luggage does go by seperate transport and it can take 3 hours to arrive. We brought everything we would need immediately in a carry-on. That was simple enough and we loved having the luggage sent right to the room.

One time we had a late evening flight so we collected our own luggage and took it with us on the Magical Express bus. Don%26#39;t use the WDW luggage tags if you do this. That worked out fine.

We LOVE Disney%26#39;s Magical Express. It was very clean and efficient every time we used it.

Here is a link with some good information: http://www.buildabettermousetrip.com/dme.html

What is best on using Disney's Magic Express Service

Hello flygalinva,

I can only speak of my experience and it%26#39;s been very positive. Yes, it takes 3 hours for luggage to arrive to your room so bring a carry on of the items you%26#39;ll need within that time span. All of our luggage arrived safely. Loved the service! And yes they take your luggage after the plane arrives, you don%26#39;t need to go to baggage claim. You will receive luggage tags you%26#39;ll put on each handle of your luggage so it can be identified by Disney. You will stop by the Disney desk, check in and hop on the bus!

It is more convenient to let Disney handle your luggage but a very long wait for them to deliver. I think it%26#39;s much better to collect the luggage yourself and put it under the Magic Express bus. One less thing to worry about and then you have everything with you. As far as the return flight pick up,quite the contrary-they usually pick you so early you get to the airport with wawy too much time to spare.

You get your tickets and they check your bags on the return flight at your hotel when you get on the bus. So you skip the ticket counter and go straight to security, and on to your gate. Is that correct? We are using the service the end of Feb.

We used M.E. in December. We arrived at Pop Century at 6:30pm- 4 hours later our luggage hadn%26#39;t arrived. When we called to check, they said it would be quicker if we came and retrieved our luggage, which we did. No big deal. The resort was full, and they were backlogged with luggage.

You%26#39;ll be told to be at the bus stop 3 hours ahead of your flight time. If you get there a little earlier, you should have time to get your flight tickets printed out. There%26#39;s a counter outside, near the M.E. busstop, where they do this. It was very convenient! Otherwise, you can wait in line when you get to the airport.

directions from Sandford to Lake Buena Vista

Does anyone know which is the best way to get from Sandford Airport -(arrive 5.30pm ish) to Lake Buena Vista Area? Is it best to come straight down the I4 (i%26#39;ve read it can be very busy around this time of day) or take the 417 and join the 535? Also the reverse- will be leaving LBV approx 4pm to get to Sandford for 5.30pm

directions from Sandford to Lake Buena Vista

I would use the i4 straight there and follow the sign at that time will prob take 45mins- to one hour but when you pick your car up ask for a map and the best way to go, they always offer directions to us or the person who shows you to your car in the car park usualy know aswel

directions from Sandford to Lake Buena Vista

I%26#39;m surprised you haven%26#39;t had more answers as all the tourist information folks seem to want to keep people from driving down I4 and point you towards the toll roads. As far as I can remember that%26#39;s also the route the car hire companies recommend.

We think that the I4 route is much more straightforward and quicker (probably because tourists are clogging up the other route).

Yes, I4 will be busy in parts but realistically, by the time you have cleared customs and picked up your car it shouldn%26#39;t be too bad.

For your return journey, I would probably leave earlier and have a late lunch somewhere along the way as, to be honest, Sanford is quite a dull airport with nothing much to do and the food is not that good.

Que

The reason everyone says avoid I-4 is because traffic can be very heavy especially around 5 when everyone gets off work. I have sat on that road for over and hour creeping along at 5 miles per hour because of an accident. Also there is a lot of construction always going on. The 417 is a toll road but it moves pretty smoothly. You might also be able to take the 436 which is not toll. go to www.mapquest.com and fill out the addresses for driving directions. It will give you a route but you can also look at the map and see if there are alternates.

Thanks for the replies- appreciate it

hi sue,just done that flight arrival time,been travelling over 9 hrs from manchester.i would not go down the i4 at all.you are tired, stiff and it can be stressful just getting off the plane and getting your car ,never mind driving on the %26#39;wrong%26#39;side of the road after the flight.

i always take the toll road ,that will take you to were you want to go,straight there,it will cost you about 6 dollars but is a very quiet motorway.when you come out of the airport after about 4 miles you go under a flyover.turn left and go straight ahead and you are on the motorway,after about 10 miles it splits ,take the right hand fork and just keep in the middle till you get to the lake buena vista turn off.

hope that helps

scouser i flew 2 weeks ago and drove down i-4 and was at hotel on i-drive in 20 mins the 417 goes down to semoran blvd and then to lbv which is quite a roundabout way as i-4 goes straight down but each to his own...........

I would avoid I 4 at any time if you can the distance in miles is only two and at the time you are talking about I 4 will be full of traffic.

All will be trying to get where their going a quick as they can. That is s good recipe for getting a lot of bent paint and spending some time in hospital.

If you are not familiar with the I 4 route don%26#39;t use it when there are safer and quicker options

Margaritaville Ketchup

Had a fabulous Heniz ketchup recently in Margaritaville. It was on the table and not the regular tomato variety and a little bit spicy. Does anyone know what it is and if it%26#39;s available in the UK.

Just chowed down on about 1lb of peanut butter M%26amp;Ms - oh joy oh bliss oh feeling sick now. BTW are these available in the UK?

Thanks

Margaritaville Ketchup

libby, we found a Heinz chili ketchup over here but haven%26#39;t been able to find it again! It was great so hope someone answers!

Margaritaville Ketchup

IowaninUK I know!! I can%26#39;t even remember the proper name for it but it was seriously delicious.

they do this sauce as a dip at Pizza hut... maybe they would know where to get bottles ..

Last year I went to Sri Lanka and they had a similar thing there. Amazing. Like Ketchup. But Hot! A taste sensation!! Peanut butter M%26amp;M%26#39;s are you taking the michael??? I have not seen them here! Peanut Butter Kit Kat yes. Peanut M%26amp;M%26#39;s yes. But not Peanut butter M%26amp;M%26#39;s. Sounds yum!

Rea went to M%26amp;M World in the Florida Mall and bought 4x1lb bags for $30.00 - I thought I%26#39;d take a couple of bags into work but sadly I%26#39;ve scoffed my way through 2 bags already - they are absolutely yummy and addictive.

Where or where is that ketchup though???

perhaps it is normal ketchup with tabsco sauce in it??

Heinz does have a Hot and Spicy Ketchup with tabasco added, but I haven%26#39;t ever eaten in Margaritaville, so I%26#39;m just guessing.

Perhaps we should go into business marketing this stuff??

I%26#39;m so gonna have to get me some ketchup and tabasco! That hot stuff, it%26#39;s addictive, although after a while does start to burn somewhat!!

What to pack

My husband and I are spending the month of February, and two weeks of March in Panama City Beach. I am at a loss to know what to pack. I have had so much advise. I would appreciate some help from those who have spent this time period in that area. I understand that it is not as warm as southern Florida, but should I expect to wear sandles very often? Will we be able to swim in a heated pool? Will we be able to walk on the beach in the morning with shorts and a light jacket....Any suggestions would be appreciated by those who have spent this time there. I know that every year is not the same, and also that this is dependent on the weather, but I am interested in opinions from those who spend this time there. Thanks in advance....

What to pack

could be 20...could be 70...you never know....normally layer and take it off as the day goes on

here is the forecast for feb....http://snipurl.com/17y9o

if a cold front comes thru it can be quite windy

not sure about the swimming part....heated pool prolly okay, but gulf temp could still be a bit chilly

What to pack

Emma,

Hello, I live on the beach and it ALL depends on the weather, more often than not it is cold in the morning but can get to 75 in the afternoon, then cold again at night. It is also very breezy. I normally will wear a cami, then a shirt and in the cooler times a light jacket. Almost always wear flip flops though....lol

Just layer things and all will be well, dont plan on swimming though the water is really cold but that is a really beautiful time of year to visit the ocean it is prettier than any other time of the year.

Welcome to the ';World most beautiful beaches';

Hi Emma-Lynn, I agree with Harrell. I live here and today I am wearing fleece pants and a sweater, but last week it was sunny and I was comfortable in jeans and a t-shirt. It will feel warmer to you coming from a cold climate, but I wouldn%26#39;t count on swimming. The mornings and evenings will invairably be cooler, especially ON the beach itself, you%26#39;ll have a breeze, so if you want to walk you may need sweats.

highlight

Hand luggage restrictions at Manchester to Orlando?

Can anyone advise me about the current restrictions on hand luggage when flying from UK (Manchester) to the US (Sanford)?

I know that I can%26#39;t carry any sharp instruments but what else is restricted?

Also, how come people complain about long delays when flying to the US? Are the delays at the UK or US end? And what are they for? And how long do they usually take?

Thanks in anticipation.

Bobby

Hand luggage restrictions at Manchester to Orlando?

Strangely enough I was contemplating this earlier this evening and had a nose on the Manchester Airport website. They say this...

Hand baggage

Passengers will continue to be allowed just one item of hand baggage. The size of the bag is 56cm x 45cm x 25cm. This is consistent with the International Air Transport Association%26#39;s long-standing recommendation.

Exemption for musical instruments

Large musical instruments will be allowed as a second item of hand luggage but they will have to be screened separately.

Liquids

Passengers will be allowed to take liquids, gels and pastes of 100mls or less in their hand baggage. These will have to be declared separately, removed from their baggage and x-rayed separately.

These items must be contained within a small, re-sealable plastic wallet, which will be have to be removed from their hand baggage and x-rayed separately.

The new rules stipulate that the plastic wallet must not exceed one litre capacity per passenger - that鈥檚 around half the size of a standard A4 piece of paper and it must be sealable. The wallet can contain two or more items of less than 100mls each but must not be cluttered to allow security officers to carry out thorough checks.

Large electrical items / Laptops

Laptops and other complex items of electrical equipment have to be removed from hand luggage and screened separately.

WHAT DOES NOT CHANGE

Passengers will continue to be allowed to pack liquids in the bags that they check-in. Passengers will also be allowed to carry in their hand luggage medicines and dietary requirements including baby foods, for use during the trip. Please note that you may be asked for proof that these items are needed.

Passengers will be able to buy liquids including drinks and perfumes either in an EU airport shop after security control, or on board an aircraft operated by an EU airline. If they are sold in a special sealed bag, passengers must not open them before they are screened otherwise the contents may be confiscated at the security checkpoint. Liquids include:

Water and other drinks, soups, syrups

Creams, lotions and oils

Perfumes

Sprays

Gels, including hair and shower gels

Contents of pressurised containers, including shaving foam, other foams and deodorants

Pastes, including toothpaste

Liquid-solid mixtures

Mascara

Any other item of a similar consistency

Of course as with anything, they will no doubt change their minds in a week or so!!

Hand luggage restrictions at Manchester to Orlando?

About delays, in six flights with Virgin only had one delay at U.S end when coming home.

Incoming flight had to be diverted to Heathrow due to a medical emergency on board and we had to wait three hours extra in Orlando. Can%26#39;t complain about that.

P.S Travel City Direct Flights have always been delayed when we have been at airport waiting for our flight.OK STAND BACK FOR THE BUN FIGHT VIRGIN V TRAVEL CITY DIRECT

Bun fight? Do people fight with buns in Wigan? smashing!

thewiganer you talk some pony!!! i flew on the 6th and flew back on the 20th NO DELAYS !!!!!! get off your soapbox please you are becoming ...YAWN...stale ..YAWN...and predictable..... you prefer virgin ok BUT if travel city were as bad as u keep saying HOW COME THEY ARE CANING VIRGIN AND ALL OTHERS FOR PRICE ???? YOU KNOW WHAT IM SICK OF THIS CRAP IM OFF ..............

Ideas for 8 days in Orlando - first time

My husband and I will be in America for the first time during the first week of May. Can we expect all the attractions to be very busy or will it be a good time to visit?

I have no idea what we should be able to do in 8 days but from reading some of the posts, they say:

2 days at Seaworld

1 day at Epcot

1 day Magic Kingdom

1 day at Universal Studios

I don%26#39;t know what else we should do or if I am right with the above?

All help gratefully received.

Ideas for 8 days in Orlando - first time

1 Day seaworld

1 Day epcot and everynight for the fireworks and the worlds and soaring and test track oh god wish i was back there woops sorry

1 day Mk

1/2 DAY mgm AND 1/2 Day AK

2 Days universal

1/2 DAY BILLARD BEACH 1/2 DAY TYPOON LAGOON

1 Day shopping and chilling

get a 5 day park hopper and have a great time finally arrange a week of when u get home to recover lol

Ideas for 8 days in Orlando - first time

Would it be possible to just buy one ticket to let us into all those attractions or would that be impossible? I am just looking for the easiest way of arranging everything, ideally before we go.

It depends on what you want but if you like thrill rides and big rides and have no kids with you I would concentrate on MGM rather than MK.

Also allow 2 days for universal (1 for studios %26amp; 1 for islands)

Agree just one day at seaworld

You can buy a 5 day premium ticket for Disney %26amp; a 4 flexticket for the other parks

Disney and Universal are two different parks so there is no joint ticket for the two its not cheap to get in either park but its a must do

so get a 5 day park hopper for disney then u can go from park to park on the same day .So you go say MK 900am done by say 600pm get on mono rail go to epcot watch the best firework shw in the world all for the use of one day off your ticket so mix and match it also allows a day or maybee 2 in the water parks so say its hot waterparks open 10am gomthere have fun untill 3pm then go to theme park ,im sure you will work it out but remember if your not staying at a disney resort parking is $10 a day even if u change parks its i payment each day. Now universall is two parks so get the 2 day ticket again parking fee when u arrive but u can walk between parks and theres a great nite life called city walk .then theres downtown disney with plesure island your ticket will let u in for 1 nite really 8 days is not enough we do 17 usually and have been going since 1976 and still seeing new things

Thank you Nemmis - excellent for me to get advice from someone who has visited Orlando so often.

Bunny if you want to go to Seaworld you should get a flex ticket as this covers universal parks %26amp;amp; seaworld.

If you buy a 2day as Nemmis suggests you then have to buy a Seaworld ticket seperately.

I agree with jenni here, get a 4 park Flex ticket.

This also covers wet %26amp;amp; wild though its not a great park.