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Wednesday, April 30, 2008

Character Dining at Magic Kingdom’s Crystal Palace


Character dining is a popular activity at the Walt Disney World resort for several reasons: the characters keep young children entertained, the food is usually served buffet style (definitely a plus when traveling with little ones) and the atmosphere is classic Disney. The Crystal Palace at the Magic Kingdom is a popular spot for families who want to meet Winnie the Pooh, Piglet, Tigger and Eeyore from the Hundred Acre Wood.

The Crystal Palace serves up one of the best buffets at Disney World, with kid-friendly favorites for the children (a hearty macaroni and cheese, chicken nuggets, and fruit) plus a wide selection of fresh greens, chilled salads and main dishes for the grown-ups, including pasta primavera and ratatouille. The dessert choices are also substantial, with a choice of cakes and custards to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth.

To make a reservation, it’s best to call several weeks in advance at (407) WDW-DINE (939-3463). Available slots fill up fast, and walk-in accommodations are nearly impossible to get on weekends.

Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Universal Orlando Resort


Simpson ride opens at Universal.Guests will be rocketed along with the Simpson family on a hysterical, almost unimaginable adventure. They’ll experience a side of Springfield previously unexplored as they enjoy the new ride’s interpretation of thrill rides, dark rides and “live” shows that make up a new fantasy amusement park dreamed up by the show’s cantankerous Krusty the Clown.
Universal’s award-winning creative team is collaborating with The Simpsons Creator and Executive Producer Matt Groening and Executive Producer James L. Brooks to create and open the first-ever mega-attraction based on the blockbuster TV series. It will feature the show’s classic humor and many of its instantly recognizable characters - all voiced by the original actors.

Families Frolic at the Nickelodeon Family Suites by Holiday Inn


The Nickelodeon Family Suites by Holiday Inn takes family friendly to a new level. Kids can enjoy character dining with SpongeBob Squarepants and Dora the Explorer, play video games in a state of the art arcade, and bunk down in rooms with the walls adorned with their favorite Nicktoons characters.
The centerpiece of this resort is the Lagoon, which has two interactive pool complexes with multiple slides, climbing nets, water jets, and a 400-gallon dump tank. When the dump tank starts to overflow, crowds of eager children and their parents stand beneath it chanting “We want slime!” while those who prefer not to be doused with green goo can swim in the zero depth entry pool, play basketball or miniature golf.
In the evening Studio Nick, a million-dollar, state-of-the-art theater, features live nightly entertainment, so from sunup to sundown energetic kids will always have something to keep them occupied at the Nickelodeon Family Suites by Holiday Inn.

Monday, April 28, 2008

Tips To Get A Discounted Rental Car

Car hire is a popular means of transport in Spain, not only for frequent travellers or people who have their own vehicle in the garage, but especially for people on holiday in Spain. At many airports in Spain you will find a desk of multinational companies like Avis, Hertz, National or Europcar in the terminal building. But at popular tourist destinations like Malaga, Alicante, Almeria, Valencia, Gerona, airports on the Balearic Islands (Mallorca or Ibiza) and also on the Canaries (Tenerife, Gran Canaria etc.) you will also find a choice of local car hire companies with a similar philosophy as the low-cost airlines offering cheap all inclusive car rental prices. Amongst these car hire companies in Spain you will find names like Auriga Crown Car Hire, Sol Mar Rent a Car, Centauro Rent a Car, Record and several other companies, depending on your travel destination in Spain.

An important consideration, aside from the type of car you would like to rent, is the optional insurance coverage, also called CDW (Collision Damage Waiver). This service, which is relatively inexpensive, will cover any damages to the vehicle. Generally, if insurance is not purchased, the customer may be held financially responsible for any damages that occur with the car during the rental period stated on the rental agreement. Unlike the multinationals most local car hire company offer a fully inclusive insurance (CDW) without excess, which means that you do not have financial liability in case of an accident or damage to the rental vehicle. If the insurance does include an excess consider that, while on the road, anything can happen. Insurance coverage is often the only link between a holiday with complete peace of mind or considerable additional expenses in case of damages to the car or an accident.

Although rental agreements generally include unlimited mileage, there are still agencies offering rental cars with mileage limits. Normally there is a fee to be paid if a certain amount of kilometres has been exceeded. But, as said before, in Spain unlimited mileage is usually included in the rental price. Car rental companies in Spain will usually deliver a vehicle that is filled with fuel, although this may vary depending on the location as local car hire stations do sometimes not have a facility close by to fill up the vehicles returned by previous customers. When vehicles are returned to the car hire agency, some expect that you take care of refilling the fuel tankv your self, whilst others may request you to return the car with an empty tank when you sign the rental agreement.

Car Rental In Germany Isn't Really That Hard

Germany is a little gem, largely undiscovered by tourists but it has a great deal to offer with a varied history and exiting landscape. Like the Germans, you must look passed their previous history and enjoy the country for what it has now become which is a modern society proud of its re-invention and acceptance as a global power.
With some stunning countryside scenery with quaint villages and impressive cities, there is a great deal to see in Germany but you will probably require a car to take full advantage. Car rental in Germany isn't really that hard to book, well, just to be safe, a good piece of advice is to book your car rental, way before you even set foot in the country.

Don't expect every German to speak English fluently because like France, it is not their second language. It's best that you find a good, reputable and affordable car rental for Germany while you're still planning your trip, this way, you can spare your self the hassle of ending up with a vehicle that you're not comfortable in, much worse, nothing at all. Sometimes it is easy to underestimate how many miles there are between places you want to visit and a little forward planning can make all the difference between an enjoyable trip and a nightmare one. This will help you decide whether or not to actually rent a car in Germany at all as you may find that trains and coaches will do the job just as well.

When working this out, think about the costs involved of renting a car in Germany and whether it will be worth it for your full stay. Many people familiar with driving on the left side of the road do not feel they can easily adapt to driving on the right side of the road. Perhaps this should have been mentioned earlier on because for many people when they travel abroad, there is a good possibility that they will be in a country where drivers are on the opposite side to what they are familiar with. If this proves to be a hassle for you, ask your vacation companions if they're comfortable driving on the right side of the road, anyone who's more than willing to act as your designated driver will solve your problem easily.

Destination Birmingham Must S ee With Your Own CarHire

When you travel to the UK one of the towns you surely will want to pay a visit s Birmingham. Birmingham is home to two airports, and the Birmingham International is the most utilized by business travelers outside if London. It is accessible by most major European cities, and also a few USA and Canada airports. One arrange a car hire directly from the many companies focused on car hire Birmingham Airport and then travel at their leisure through the wonderful city. There are five particular things visitors to Birmingham generally will want to do, besides the traditional Balti restaurants available. The Punjabi cooking style originated here, and is a great dining experience for visitors as well as locals.

The first activity to include is geared toward the chocolate lover in all of us. Cadbury World is a museum located just outside the city where George Cadbury was a true pioneer. There are plenty of motorways to get to the museum, and several brown colored sign posts that will help along the way. Be sure to plan time to visit the demonstration area where Cadbury World workers will assist you in writing your name with liquid Chocolate!
Then let your dreams sparkle at the Jewellery Quarter where precious stones and metals have been weaved into masterpieces for over 350 years. The area has available shopping within its community of craftspeople for the jewelry shopping dreams are made of. Almost forty percent of all the jewelry in the UK was made here.

Then one must experience the art world at its finest at the Ikon Gallery. The neo-gothic building is home to the most memorable lift in the world. As you ascend the floors you will hear a choir performing a single chord together, then as you rise through the each gallery floor the lower notes fall away with the ground. At the apex there is a single soprano tone left audible. Then the descent provides the reassembly of the chord. It is an unmatched experience. For access to theaters, concerts, and attractions one can visit the tourism and ticket shop located at the Rotunda, on 150 New Street. Here visitors can find information about all activities in the city, as well as gift shops, and a fax and copy service. This serves as a "home base" of sorts for all activities. There are maps for those who arrange a car hire. Birmingham is quite manageable for foreign drivers if they plan ahead.

Gaylord Palms Resort Summer Treasure Hunt Challenge

Gaylord Palms Resort Summer Treasure Hunt Challenge:
Bring your family and friends to compete for a grand-prize treasure of $10,000. in cold cash. Beginning May 2 through August 28, the Gaylord Palms Resort will be transformed into a pirate treasure hunt experience. Contestants will prove their skills to act and think like pirate and treasure seekers as they earn points by traversing the resort while solving clues, puzzles and performing unique "piratey" tasks. At the end of the summer, the team that earns the greatest number of points during their stay will be awarded the $10,000 prize. The second-place team will win a $3,500 cash prize and the third-place team will be awarded a three-night stay at a Gaylord Palms Resort.

Sunday, April 27, 2008

Car Hire Driving Around Sydney

Australia is a sparsely populated country, despite the fact that it has a land mass of 7.7 million km2. As a result of this, the distances between the major cities are large, with a drive from Melbourne to Sydney taking over 12 hours and Sydney to Brisbane around 10-12 hours. Hiring a car out in Sydney isn't difficult as there are a number of car hire companies located around the city. Car hire in Sydney, although easy, is not necessarily recommended for everyone. The traffic is heavy on the city roads, and parking spaces are almost impossible to find, so peak hours should be avoided at all costs if you are not a patient driver who possesses a good sense of direction. However, if you are planning on driving outside of the city or in the outback, then a car is necessary.

When driving "off road" on unsealed tracks, you should first obtain local advice for your journey and always make sure that you have told a loved one or a person of authority, such as the hotel concierge, your travel plans in case you were to get lost for example. In the event of your vehicle breaking down in a remote area, you should always stay with it, as people who stay with their car are usually found a lot quicker than those who have abandoned it. If you want to travel across designated Aboriginal land you will require the permission of the owner in advance. Other things to be aware of when you are travelling in the outback are the extreme climate that you will face, especially in the Northern provinces and the road conditions that will vary enormously; rough, poor and potholed surfaces are not uncommon.

Along with these issues, there is also the matter of the wildlife to consider. Local wildlife may stray onto the roads, so you will have to be more vigilant at night as this is the time when collisions with kangaroos, wallabies, foxes and dingoes are commonplace. One way of trying to combat this risk to both you and the wildlife, is to ask whether the car hire company has a Shu Roo. The Shu Roo is a car that will emit a high frequency sound that can be heard for 400 metres ahead of you and for 50 meters both sides of your vehicle and will alert any wildlife on the roads of your approach, thereby protecting you and the Australian wildlife. Before you think that the 12 hour journey from Melbourne to Sydney would be near impossible with a high pitched sound in your ear as company, then you'll be pleased to learn that the sound can only be heard by the animals and not humans.

Rental Car Across the Border

Driving a rental car across the border can be tricky. Whether or not a rental company will allow this really depend on a variety of factors, including the car rental company and which border you are trying to cross. However, you may need additional insurance in order to drive in another country and you will need to find out if there are any differences in the road rules in the country you are heading to.

Canadian Border You have a lot more leeway here than if you are wanting to cross the border into Mexico. The majority of car rentals in both Canada and the U.S. will allow you to take your rental car across the border, as long as you are planning to come back again. The exception to this rule is if you are a resident of the country that you are driving into. For example, if you are a Canadian citizen, you cannot take an American rental car into Canada unless it has Canadian license plates. Also, if you are going to be taking a rental car across the border into Canada, you will need to show your rental documents to the border officials, so have them handy. In addition, you will probably need to purchase additional insurance, since the insurance that comes with the car rental won´t cover accidents or theft outside of the U.S. You will probably need to have a Canadian non-resident insurance card in this case. Talk to your rental company before attempting to cross the border, since you don´t want to be crossing without permission or insurance!

Mexican Border This is a bit trickier. You'll be hard pressed to find a car rental company that will allow you to take a rental car into Mexico, due to the high crime and theft rate in this country. There are a few rental companies that may allow you to take the rental car across the border, but this is fairly unlikely. A better option would be to just park at the border and walk across. If you need to have a vehicle on the other side, rent from a Mexican car rental company as they are better equipped to deal with the risks. You will definitely need to buy extra insurance if you do decide to cross the border into Mexico in a rental car and manage to get permission from your car rental company. Sometimes, you can get this extra insurance to cover you in Mexico from your rental company, but you may prefer to go with a third party insurance supplier if it is cheaper. Read the contract carefully and make sure that you are covered for everything from car theft to accidents. Mexico can get a bit wild, particularly in the border towns, so try to park the car in safe areas where you pay someone to keep an eye on it.

Car Hire In Southern Spain

Malaga, Seville, Valencia and Murcia; what do these places have in common? The answer is simple; they are just some of the fantastic, picturesque destination in Southern Spain. When travelling to Southern Spain you will quickly realise that there is a variety of activities to do and the area caters for all types of holiday-maker. Whether it is adventure or relaxation you are looking for, Southern Spain has it all. There is so much to do and see; you need a way to get the most out of your holiday. Tour groups often have set itineraries and tend to stick to them. You may want to spend more time in, for example, Seville then you do in Murcia, but you can't due to the itinerary you have to stick to. One way to avoid this is by hiring a car as car hire allows you to explore places you have more of an interest in.

Seville is one place you should visit when traveling to the South of Spain. It has some amazing monuments to see including the city's cathedral, there are no stairs in the cathedral as they opted for ramps which make for easy accessibility. The Alcazar (Royal Palace) and Torre del Oro (The gold tower) are also monuments that you should try and see when in Seville.

Valencia is situated on the South-East coast of Spain and is Spain's third largest city. Valencia has transformed itself from an industrial city to the vibrant, tourist friendly city it is today. When the city was reformed during the mid-90's, many landmarks were restored such as the Serrano and Quart Towers. As well as these, many museums, monasteries and theatres can be found which will ensure you have a holiday you will never forget. As the city is so large and there is so much to do and see, a car rental is the best way to travel around at your own pace and enjoy the sights of Valencia. As well as the larger cities, smaller towns like Murcia, Grenada and Cadiz are all worth a visit to experience some Spanish culture. Andalusia offers the most choice for tourists and places like the Costa del Sol are a favourite amongst many tourists visiting Spain each year.

Car Dublin Airport In Ireland

Renting a car is great because it gives you the freedom and independence to come and go and to explore the hidden beauty of the Irish countryside. Here are a few car hire tips when you travel to Dublin and pick up your car at Dublin Airport.

1. Before you travel to Ireland : You can look and book cars online before you arrive at Dublin Airport. Many car hire provider companies offer discount car rental deals online. You can also call these companies, if you'd prefer to discuss your travel requirements with a consultant. It is advisable to pre-book your car in advance during peak seasons.

2. Booking your rental car : Take always your time and choose the most suitable car. Rental companies can provide you with automatic transmission cars. It is also possible to rent cars with GPS navigation. It is really easy to use and helps you to get around in Ireland. Please take the time to read the terms and conditions carefully. Check what is included in the rental price and what optional extras are payable locally. One-way car rental is also available from and to Dublin Airport. You can pick up and drop off your rented car in different locations in Ireland.

3. At the rental desk at Dublin Airport : The car rental desks are conveniently located within Dublin Airport. In the Arrivals Hall, Main Terminal, turn right when you exit the baggage reclaim area. You also have to produce your car rental voucher or booking reference at the time of collection the vehicle. When you have to sign a document at the rental desk, read everything very carefully. Don't sign anything that you don't agree with.

4. Before you hit the Irish roads : Inspect your rental car thoroughly before you leave the car park. Make sure that any dents, scratches or other damage discovered, are noted in the contract. It is a good idea to take a picture of your rented car with your digital camera when you notice any damage to it. If you never drove right hand drive car before, take your car around the block at Dublin Airport, or drive a few minutes in the rental company's car park.

Saturday, April 26, 2008

CT Freedom Riders storm Disney

My sister and her family came from Connecticut and enjoyed a few days at Disney this past week. They were particularly impressed with the renovated ride inside the EPCOT ball. It also had really neat features at the end of the ride. I must go over to see it. Otherwise, Magic Kingdom was too crowded given the entire Northeast seemed to have emptied into Disney's smallest park. However, they were able to enjoy The Laugh Floor attraction before finally fleeing the crowds at 3 pm and running to their motel. They had compliments about the Extended Stay motel on Palm Parkway, minutes from Disney. They payed approximately $180 for four nights tax and fees included with a nice Continental breakfast included, a large pool and spa, kitchenette that included a dishwasher and a large refrigerator. Do not ask how my brother in law, a gourmet cook in his spare time, burned the frying pan cooking pancakes!! Not a pretty sight.

Contributor:

Edgar

Friday, April 25, 2008

Top 10 Orlando Travel tips

1. Travel Off Season — Even January and February are much warmer in Orlando than they are “Up North.” Not only will you benefit from lower air fares and hotel rates, but the crowds will be lighter too.
2. Book Orlando hotel rooms online — Hotels frequently offer their most favorable rates online, sometimes as part of weekend package deals.
3. Share the expense of accommodations — If you are traveling with (or meeting up with) extended family, split the bill on a rental condo or vacation house to defray the costs for everyone.
4. Skip the rental car — Choose hotels that provide free shuttle service to the places you want to go. Some Disney resorts take care of all your transportation needs from the moment you arrive at the airport, while some International Drive hotels have free shuttles to SeaWorld and Universal Studios.
5. Skip the rental stroller — Rental strollers are convenient, but they aren’t free, and the hard plastic rental strollers aren’t as comfortable as the folding strollers your baby or toddler is used to.
6. Eat outside the theme parks — While you wouldn’t want to miss out on all of the fabulous dining that the attractions have to offer, eating breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the theme parks is very expensive. Take advantage of the free continental breakfasts that most hotels offer, and consider a couple of nights eating take-out food in your hotel room.
7. Bring drinks and snacks to the theme parks — Stock up on these supplies at the local supermarket; there are many grocery stores that are a short drive, or even a short walk, from the hotels on International Drive and Universal Boulevard.
8. Purchase Disney and Universal multiday passes — All of the major theme parks offer multiple day passes. It usually means you’ll have to “commit” to one company for the duration of your vacation—Disney, Universal or Anheuser-Busch (SeaWorld/Discovery Cove)—but you can spend a week at any one of these attractions and still want to catch anything you’ve missed on your next Orlando vacation.
9. Cut out those coupons — From your hotel lobby to the outlet malls on I-Drive, you will find dozens of brochures offering discount coupons and other special deals. Tear out the coupons you think you might use and keep them in your wallet for the duration of your trip.
10. Spend one or two days doing non-theme park activities — Spend a day at the pool, take a stroll down International Drive, or if you did go ahead and rent that car, spend a day at the beach. And be sure to pack your own lunch.

Strollers, take 4 - DME?

One smart reader thinks the stroller price hikes are the first "squeeze" from DME, which makes WDW patrons captive. Now might as well raise prices!!

[start quote]

Prices are set at WDW by price/value perception research. In a fairly homogenous closed population like WDW guests with a large population from which to sample, you can pretty accurately measure cost/sales behavior and find the revenue-maximization price point. They can even claim now to factor in goodwill--they sample guests 5, 7, 10 years out to see what they remember and how it shapes buying behavior, and you know what, people don't complain!

One of my theories is that because prices continuously rise, perception of expense in the past is overwhelmed by perception of how things have *gotten* so expensive in the present. One big driver of prices right now is DME. Because DME eliminates guest purchase choices, what a guest perceives as being willing to pay is way more now than a few years ago; in the past it was a that they didn't want to drive to Wal Mart; now they simply can't, so it doesn't enter into their thinking.

Another big driver is the US exchange rate. Perceptions have adjusted around the strong GBP/EUR. In the inverse, remember for over a decade there was essentially a different price for Canadians whose CAD was strongly devalued vs. the USD. You could buy tickets and vacation packages for WDW in Canada for 15% less than in the States.

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Simpsons is soft-opened!

A few fan sites are reporting that Simpsons the Ride (at Uni-Orlando) is soft-opened. I haven't seen it myself just yet, but will hopefully have a look this weekend. And a report on miceage if it's ready.

Strollers, take 3

An email I got, in its entirety (no name or salutation or anything):

You're a Dad that is sweating this trip already. Airfare, hotels, restaurant meals and the $200 a day for the family's tickets to the park.... now you realize this trip will cost $3,000+ and the credit cards will take months to heal. The card is red-hot already from being run through the register so much.... damn, breakfast at the character restaurant you promised the kids was "brunch"! No one was even that hungry and it ran $150 and the kids had a little cereal and juice. You overate just trying to get some value out of it and now your stomach is killing you.
Now you hit the stroller rental counter for a double wide for the twins. It's gotta be $10 a day for a stroller cost Disney $60, the way they charge around here.
What does that sign say? $31? Must be for a week, that's great! At least they cut you some slack on something. Say what? $31 A DAY?! For a STROLLER? You have got to be freakin' KIDDIN' ME HERE! Listen, my RENT A CAR only costs $15 a day more than that! This stroller got 200 horsepower, auto trans and A/C? No? THEN WHERE DOES $31 A DAY COME FROM?!! My 8 year old wants to see Mickey, has a bowl of Cheerios and it's $25! OK! BUT $31 FOR ONE DAY OF STROLLER!?
Family is almost in tears, but Dad has snapped like a dry branch in a stiff wind. He was ready to pay high on this trip. He knew everything would be expensive. But this is so outrageous, so over the top, and he's so vulnerable, what does he do? Tell the twins to wait outside?
He takes a deep breath, remembers the poor kid behind the counter just works here, and pays. He wants this to be a good time for the family, and he forces a stiff smile. But he and the wife will have a little talk tonight after the kids are down. They will never go to a Disney park again. Ever.

Marriott Hotels Plentiful in Orlando

If you are planning a trip to Orlando, there is a Marriott hotel in a location and a price range to suit your needs. There are over 35 Marriott hotels in the Orlando area, which include Renaissance Hotels, Residence Inn, Courtyard, Fairfield Inn, SpringHill Suites, and a Marriott Vacation Club Resort.

No matter where you want to stay in the Orlando area, there is a Marriott brand hotel nearby, including locations near Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld, International Drive, downtown Orlando and the Orlando International Airport. The largest Marriott in the Orlando area (and the largest Marriott in the world) is the Orlando World Center Marriott Resort and Convention Center, which can be spotted easily from the I-4 Expressway.

From the high end Marriott resorts to the budget conscious Fairfield Inns, all Marriott guests receive high quality customer service and are minutes away from Orlando's most popular attractions.

Strollers (again)

My MiceAge article on stroller price increases at WDW (and which veers to the quantitative vs qualitative debate) has spooked up a lot of interesting emails.

One CM reader agrees with me that abandoned strollers are increasing, and reminds me that Disney takes those to lost and found, then property control, and finally auctions them to CMs. So Disney essentially sells the strollers twice!

More declines by degree

I promised I'd start posting reader mail from MiceAge in here, but have mostly forgotten to do so. Here's a good one:

[start quote]

I’ve been reading your columns on declining by degrees for a long time and I though I’d share my recent experience. This may or may not be the way things have always been done, I don’t know, but it sure felt less than magical to me:

We recently booked our second trip to WDW for September to take advantage of the free DDP. On the prior trip we stayed off property and never interacted with Disney Travel, but this time I booked directly with the website and put up the $200 deposit, with the rest to be paid from our tax rebate (doing my patriotic duty here!). About 5 days later, I received an envelope from the Travel Co. and opened it excitedly. Inside the envelope was nothing but a bill and a return envelope for payment. No brochure, no congratulations or even an obvious thank you (After my 1st read, I didn’t see a thank you at all, but when I let one of my coworkers look at it he found one buried in the middle of a paragraph at the bottom.)

Now how much could it cost to put a brochure or even park maps inside the envelope? Something to encourage the excitement instead of just a bill? Also, it seems to me that the “Thank You for booking with us” should be the biggest thing on the page and the first thing you see, not the balance due.

Anyway, it’s not a huge deal, just a little experience that was less than magical that seems to me to fit with your theme, so I thought I’d let you know.

[end quote]

Wednesday, April 23, 2008

Epcot Center


After an amazing Disney's Pirates and a Princess Party celebration, Epcot's International Flower & Garden Festival begins for it's 15th year in a row.

During this seasonal celebration, families and garden enthusiasts blooms with Disney magic! Visit our new Garden Odyssey Festival Center, meet well known horticulturists and enjoy an enchanting evening "under the stars" at the Flower Power Concert Series. On May 11th, mom's around the world can enjoy Epcot's "Mother's Day Brunch" so make your reservations early!

Orlando Philharmonic

The Orlando Philharmonic joins forces with the Bach Festival Choir to present Verdi’s Requiem.
The concert takes place on Saturday, May 10th at 8 pm at the Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre.
Tickets are $13, $26, $36, $48 and $62. For more information, call (407) 770-0071 Click here for hotels in Orlando Downtown

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

96th Annual Central Florida Fair Runs April 17 – 27

The 96th annual Central Florida Fair continues until April 27, with a traditional fairground full of rides, entertainment, and other family friendly activities. This week’s events include the 2nd annual Step Battle Step Show on Saturday, April 26 for middle school and high school step teams, and the 3rd annual World Dance Day on Sunday, April 27. The finals for the 2nd annual Central Florida Fair Idol Contest will also take place on Sunday night.

Adult admission for the Central Florida Fair is $10, Children’s admission (6 – 10 years old) is $5, and children 6 and under are admitted for free. The fairgrounds are located just three miles west of downtown Orlando and parking is free. For directions and more information, check out the fair’s Web site at www.centralfloridafair.com.

Monday, April 21, 2008

Great American Pie Festival Returns to Celebration, FL


The 2008 Great American Pie Festival just wrapped up in Celebration, FL this weekend. The festivities in Lakeside Park were part of the 2008 American Pie Council Crisco National Pie Championships, which took place at the Orlando Sun Resort and Convention Center in Kissimmee, FL. As the event has increased in popularity, so have the number of pies entered; in the amateur division alone, there were 300 pies and 80 entrants competing from 22 states.

Whether or not visitors were entered in the contest, everyone who attended the Great American Pie Festival had a chance to sample pies from Baker’s Square, Publix, and other professional bakeries at the Never-Ending Pie Buffet. A Kids Zone enabled budding bakers to make their own artwork and edible creations, and Food Network personality Gale Gand charmed her audience with a cooking demonstration. The Food Network camera crew was on hand to capture the excitement of the competition, and a special program about the Pie Championship will air later this year.

Saturday, April 19, 2008

Orlando Weather Warming Up

For most people living “Up North,” the first day of spring is just another day on the calendar, but Orlando residents and visitors alike know that the Sunshine State lives up to its name when spring arrives.

Daytime temperatures in Orlando at the beginning of spring are in the 70s and 80s, with pleasant evening temperatures in the 60s. By the month of May things start to heat up; summertime temperatures average in the 80s and 90s with short but powerful thunderstorms in the late afternoon.

Fortunately there are many ways to beat the heat in Orlando. There are four major water parks to choose from: Wet ‘n Wild, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach, and SeaWorld’s brand new Aquatica water park. Several Orlando area hotels have water parks on the premises, such as the Nickelodeon Family Suites by Holiday Inn and the Clarion Resort and Water Park.

Friday, April 18, 2008

Gaylord Palms Resort in Orlando



The Gaylord Palms resort is now offering an incredible discounted rate. This special $129 rate is being offered for April 26th – May 3rd. WOW!!!! Gaylord Reservations

Thursday, April 17, 2008

Encantada Resort near Disney World Orlando

We stayed at Encantada Resort for a week in a 4 bedroom townhouse. It was a perfect vacation: beautiful grounds, spacious spotless brand new twonhouse that had everything we needed (plenty of towels, starter supplies, heated pool). The property is very close to Disney, but in a quiet neighbourhood, so we could relax after a busy day in a crowded park. Staff was very helpful and responded immediately to our requests. Thank you, Encantada! We look forward to our next vacation at your Resort. Posted by guest.

Wednesday, April 16, 2008

Hampton Inns in the Orlando Area

As part of the Hilton family of hotels, Hampton Inns belong to a brand that travelers trust, with prices that vacationing families and business travelers can afford. There are at least a dozen Hampton Inns in the Orlando area, with amenities that include a pool and fitness area, high speed Internet access, as well as a complimentary continental breakfast every morning.

Most importantly, these Hampton Inns are just minutes away from all of the main Orlando attractions, with Hampton Inns located near Universal Studios, Walt Disney World, Orlando International Airport, Florida Mall, the Orange County Convention Center on International Drive, and the University of Central Florida.

The Hampton Inn hotels have proven that stellar service and modern amenities do not have to cost a fortune, which is why so many travelers seek out Hampton Inns wherever they go.

Tuesday, April 15, 2008

Hispanic Business and Consumer Expo at Orange County Convention Center

The 15th annual Hispanic Business and Consumer Expo will take place at the Orange County Convention Center on International Drive this weekend, April 18 – 20. The Hispanic Business and Consumer Expo is open to the public and is the largest Expo of its kind in the United States, with over 800 exhibitors and a projected attendance of more than 35,000 people in three days.
The Expo is presented by the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando and there will be special appearances by former Orlando Magic player Neil Anderson and current player “Bo” Outlaw, as well as the Magic Dancers. Other celebrity appearances include Willy Cirino, Lucy Pereda, and Telemundo stars Vanessa Hauc and Ponch de Anda.

Other activities at the 15th annual Hispanic Business and Consumer Expo include an interactive Kids World, free health screenings, plus door prizes and free gifts throughout the Expo.

Monday, April 14, 2008

Park Square Homes

Park Square Homes’ “Summer Move in Program” accommodates new home buyers with great deals now, closing later

Park Square Homes has introduced a new Summer Move-in program that allows new home buyers to lock down great deals and incentives now and postpone closing on their home until as late as August.

Mary McKaig, vice president of marketing at Park Square Homes, said the program is already a hit with new home buyers.

“Most new home buyers in today’s market want a ready-to-move in home,” McKaig said. “Home builders are offering fabulous incentives and pricing on ready to move in homes, but typically home builders want buyers to close as soon as possible,” McKaig explained.

But not every home buyer is ready to close immediately. “A lot of potential buyers have kids in school or job transfers to consider, or they are waiting for the sale of their current home to close,” McKaig said.

Park Square Homes’ Summer Move-in program allows new home buyers to lock in low prices and take advantage of new home buyer incentives now, but postpone the closing of their new home until as late as Aug. 15.

Already, Park Square Homes has gotten rave reviews from home buyers for the new program.

Sunday, April 13, 2008

Orlando Luxury Hotels Offer Upscale Amenities

Orlando luxury hotels cater to vacationing families as well as business travelers who have become accustomed to certain standards of quality. There are hundreds of hotels to choose from in the Orlando area, and Orlando luxury hotels are available in all of the popular tourist destinations.

Visitors who need to be near the airport can stay at the Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport, which offers the upscale amenities that the Hyatt name is known for. Conventioneers at the Orange County Convention Center on International Drive frequently check into the Peabody Hotel, which is one of only two Mobil Four-Star, AAA Four Diamond hotels in the entire city.

Families staying at the attractions can choose from the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa at Walt Disney World or the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando. Both of these Orlando luxury hotels offer easy access to the theme parks.

Friday, April 11, 2008

Guide To Safe Car Hire Tips

In the previous part of this guide I introduced the idea that hiring a car on holiday is a great way to see more on holiday, however you need to be careful and this is where our guide continues with what to consider when driving in a foreign land. When on the road make sure you wear seatbelts at all times, as well as the kids in the back who are all hyped up because you're finally going to the water park! You're in a foreign country and as such will likely be a complete novice with regards to the local driving rules. In most cases you'll be driving on the opposite side of the road and so everything you know about driving is mirrored, this is the most common cause of accidents with car hiring holidaymakers. To be safe take it slow on foreign roads and before setting off try and go through it in your mind all the things that are different and before long you'll get the hang of it. When driving abroad make sure all doors are locked even when you're still in the car, it isn't a pleasant thought that you may get car-jacked but it does happen, you drive a shiny new hire car through a quiet, less developed village and you are going to turn heads, including car thieves. One rather humorous instance happened to me once where a local tried the back door handle, not trying to steal the car form the back seat but he mistook the car for a taxi! He didn't understand the English lettering down the side of the car and thought he'd hop in!

So make sure the car is secure at all times, try and park in car parks and not on a street. There's every chance you'll not be able to read a no parking sign and end up with a parking ticket, and trust me a parking ticket is definitely something you don't want to have to stump up for when on holiday. Whilst on the lines of safety if you see someone who appears to be in trouble at the side of the road don't stop and get out, call the police and they'll send assistance. It's also worth mentioning that you shouldn't pick up hitchhikers or give a lift to anyone you don't know, you don't know who they are and they could be trouble. In some countries you need extra equipment such as warning triangles and high visibility vests, it is illegal to drive without them so make sure before leaving the car hire forecourt that you're all kitted up for the road ahead. If you end up in an accident or break down do so in a safe, well lit area and do not pull over unless instructed to do so by the police.

Tourists are unfortunately targets to thieves and so be careful about who is watching when loading shopping into your hire car, also keep all belongings out of sight, preferably in the boot when you are out of the car. It may seem silly but having a map visible in the car or on the dashboard is a big giveaway to thieves that this car is a tourist, whilst on the subject of maps make sure that if you do get lost to pull over and check your map but to be discrete and keep all doors and windows locked or shut. If you need directions then consult with someone who can be trusted and knowledgeable such as a petrol station or local police officer. Some of this may seem obvious but when on holiday you're relaxing and may be less vigilant so remember to take care when selecting car hire companies, there are many cheap car hire companies that you can pre-book when at home and can help save time and energy when you arrive. Just remember to take extra care when driving abroad and to know the local driving laws and you should be safe and happy on your holidays this year.

Fredericton Car Rental Get Great Deals On Your Next Car Rental In Fredericton New Brunswick

Get A Great Deal On Your Car Rental In Fredericton Don't just settle on a popular Branded car rental name when Visiting Fredericton There are so many options available to renting in Freddy beach, so I recommend you consider all the options. To ensure you get the best deal for your dollar spent, follow these tips:

1. Research 3 or 4 car rental businesses found locally in Fredericton. They must all meet your needs (car truck van sports car etc) You can get much of this information from Yellow Pages or by google searching. Make sure you scan or research all of them, as you don't want to miss out on the best deal.

2. Contact each car rental agent and inquire about their current specials, where they are located, availability, pickup options, special rates, hotel and airline partnerships, extra charges, insurance, and everything else you can think of that will help lower your expenses. Also, make sure it is 100% convenient for you and set your terms.

3. Make sure you plan out your pickup and drop off point and that it is clear as to who is responsible for this. Many times, car rental companies will pickup the tab for a cab fare or 2, especially if it is an airport run

4. Consider how many will be using your rental car. Will it just be you? Friends? Family? Business associates? The range of vehicles and up sells are where rental companies make their dollar, so only rent what it is you need. Larger vehicles come with bigger rental fees, gas expenses, and insurance.

5. Once you decide which vehicle is suitable for you, don't forget to reserve it. Some rental companies might include some type of fee associated with reserving it, and some may not. You should be wary of this, When you are trying to get a great deal on your car rental while in Fredericton New Brunswick, ask about upgrades at no charge. You often want the best deal, so why not get the best deal with added features. (Air conditioning, Cruise Control, 4WD, etc etc) To ensure you get the best options, get to the agency as early as possible before the cars get returned. The less economy cars on the lot, the more likely you will score a deal on the upper model rentals.

Cyprus Car Hire Shopping Around Will Pay

Cyprus car hire is available in every town and even some villages, and considering the amount of tourists that visit every year and take up Cyprus car hire, you can see it is a big business. Taking this into account, you can see why you can hire a vehicle from as little as 11 per day, now that is excellent value for money. During the summer months the weather in Cyprus can be stiflingly hot so air conditioning is worth the extra investment, the only problem with this is that whilst you are lovely and cool in your rental car in Cyprus, once you leave the car you certainly feel the heat, but you can always pop back in to cool off again! If you are into the off road driving scene you would obviously be better off with a jeep and make sure you take up their extra cover for sump and windscreen insurance as you'll likely need this. Of roading in your jeep can be a dirty and dusty experience but great fun especially on some of the mountain tracks but be warned some of them are extremely steep and hair-raising. If you are looking at villas for rent in Cyprus, long term you should be able to agree a decent price on a rental car in Cyprus, shop around it will be to your benefit.

Villas for rent in Cyprus long term, can also be negotiated to a cheap price as owners prefer the long term lets, but rather than look at rental why not look at Cyprus property for sale? You will be surprised at some of the bargains to be had. Developers are almost giving property away. Property prices are cheap at the moment but are expected to rise dramatically within the next year or two, so the best time to invest is now. If you are looking at villas for rent long term in Cyprus in view of looking for a future investment, with the intention of living in Cyprus let the Cyprus car hire company that you use know this, they may well reduce their prices even more especially when they realize you are not a tourist. Cyprus car hire companies have virtually every vehicle conceivable from a small moped right the way through the range to a luxurious Jaguar, some even have sand buggies, so they will be sure to have the car you require. Cyprus roads are somewhat hit and miss, you are driving along a tarmac road and all of a sudden it becomes a track, so make sure you look at a road map regularly, although some of these roads or tracks are not always listed as such. Living in Cyprus is great fun and extremely hot during the summer months but the pace of life is extremely laid back and stress is not a word that Cypriots seem to use, so you can be sure of an enjoyable and relaxing time.

Safe Car Hire Part One Guide

When we going on holiday we take time to relax from the hassles of working life, forgetting the various paperwork and reports of working life in favour of sitting by the side of the pool sipping an umbrella drink. It can be the highlight of the year for most people stuck in the workplace from nine to five, and rightly so since most people these days are being more adventurous with their holidays and discovering new and different locations. A part of this desire to discover more may involve hiring a car whilst on holiday to see the most you can within your precious two weeks in the sun. The trouble is with a potential language barrier to battle through it can be a risky task trying to get car hire but specifically it can be tough to get car hire that is safe and covered for any accidents. The first thing to be aware of is whether the hire company provides rental insurance, since you are driving a foreign car and in a foreign land it may seem a basic point but your car insurance back home will not cover you out there, believe it or not some people have believed this and got a nasty shock in the event of an accident. Whilst many car hire firms will cover Collision Damage Waiver and Theft costs you will still be held responsible for paying the initial costs or the Excess. Keep this in mind when cruising through the twisty mountain roads or the crowded city streets!

There are some firms who offer a separate form of car insurance specifically for people who car hire abroad, this involves a sketchy process where by you refuse the rental service's Excess cover and pay with your credit card. Later claiming the sum back through your rental insurance company instead. This process sounds a bit problematic as the process for claiming back from the insurance company may be drawn out and means you're left out of pocket for quite some time. Aside from this there are still a number of factors to consider with regards to car hire safety, some are pretty obvious ones you'll be aware of form driving in this country but some others are factors that come into play when driving abroad or simply because you are hiring a vehicle. The first one is that remember the condition the car was in when you received it, nice and clean hopefully with a full tank of petrol, this is important as some renters may insist you bring the car back with at least half a tank of fuel. Also it's incredibly rude to return the car with empty drinks cans, beach sand in the foot well and ice cream smeared on the back seat. No one expects you to vacuum the inside and perform a full valet but make sure you return the car in as good condition as you'd like to get it back.

Wednesday, April 9, 2008

Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival in Full Bloom

The 15th Annual Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival continues until June 1. This year’s festival has been expanded to 75 days, so there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy this year’s theme—“Fun in the Sun”—at Epcot.

The Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival includes topiary displays, several new kid-friendly activities, environmentally friendly gardening tips, and a beautiful butterfly garden that will delight visitors of all ages.

One of the highlights of the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival are the live concert performances. This month’s headliners include the Grass Roots featuring Rob Grill (April 10 – 13) Peter and Gordon (April 17 – 18) and BJ Thomas (April 27 – 30). Next month’s scheduled performers include Davy Jones (May 11 – 15), Jose Feliciano (May 16 – 17), and Tony Orlando (May 28 – June 1). For a full listing of concerts and special events, visit http://www.disneyworld.com/.

Tuesday, April 8, 2008

Joel Osteen

OE had the pleasure of meeting Joel and Victoria Osteen, what a great couple to meet and I am honored to have spend some time with them. Also check out his new book "Become a Better You"

Monday, April 7, 2008

Jungala now open

I've got a full write up and pics on MiceAge. In brief, I was very impressed by Jungala, much more than I thought I would be.

Travel Tip: Program In Case of Emergency (ICE) Numbers into Cell Phones

Nobody plans on getting into a serious accident—especially when they are on vacation—which is exactly why cell phones with easily identifiable phone numbers to call “In Case of Emergency” (ICE) can help police officers, emergency medical technicians and hospital personnel to quickly reach an accident victim’s next of kin if they become incapacitated.

The ICE campaign was developed by a British paramedic who observed that many of the accident victims he treated already had cell phones with them, but it was difficult to determine which number to call if the patients were unable to communicate.

By labeling your primary contact number as ICE in your cell phone, emergency and hospital personnel can quickly contact the right person by simply dialing the number you have stored as “ICE.” For more than one contact number, use the labels ICE1, ICE2 and ICE3 etc. Even if you never need someone to dial your ICE number, it’s one less thing to worry about while you’re on vacation.

Our Tours And Itineraries


Mountains and Lakes Tour

Perfect for first-time visitors, this Stresa package highlights the very unique splendor of the lake region of Piemonte its foods and its wines, its breathtaking scenery and its culture.








Switzerland is close to Stresa, about 30 minutes by car to the Sempione Pass to the north or about an hour to Locarno by car along the lake. But if you don't have a car, or if you want the convenience of relaxing with an organized tour, here are three excellent options for seeing Svizzera, one by train, one by boat, and one by bus.



If you like cheese (and we KNOW you like cheese) this is for you! This excursion provides the opportunity to taste local cheese and wine, to understand how it is manufactured, and to give the chance to step back in time in a medieval village in the Italian Alps.


Is shopping the weekly local markets a 'must-do' for you on your vacation? If so, don't miss Luino's Wednesday market, which is the largest anywhere on the lake. Luino is on the Lombardia side of Lago Maggiore, up towards Locarno and Switzerland, and difficult to reach by car. But you can make an easy and fun day of it, including time for a post-shopping rest in Cannero Riviera, by taking this trip organized by Maggiore Discoveries.


 Cooking Class At Ristorante Delfino
Are you interested in a cooking lesson as part of your vacation in Stresa? Fabri will bring you by private water taxi to Ristorante Delfino, on the beautiful Isola Bella, for a private cooking lesson with the chef. Prepare, cook, and eat a tradtional dish. And if you do well there's an apron to keep as your graduation gift.


Mountains And Lakes Tour


Nestled between snow-capped Alps and the azure waters of Lago Maggiore, Stresa beckons visitors with eighteenth-century villas and gardens, medieval castles, music festivals, and the wonders of the three Borromean Islands. Perfect for first-time visitors, this Stresa package highlights the very unique splendor of the lake region of Piemonte, its foods and its wines, its breathtaking scenery and its culture.

1st Day: Arrive in Stresa and settle into your lakefront hotel room, close to the center of town and the departure point for boats to the islands. Stroll to the piazza for your welcome aperitivo at Buscion Wine Bar.

2nd Day: Begin by visiting the mesmerizing Borromean Islands. Private water taxi will take you to Isola Bella (“Beautiful Island”) with its outlandish baroque palace and Italian gardens, to Isola dei Pescatori (“Fishermens’ Island”), the quaint home to local fishermen for hundreds of years, and Isola Madre (“Mother Island”) with its grand villa and English garden. A private guide can be arranged to explain the wonders of the Palazzo Borromeo. Enjoy a relaxing lunch overlooking the lake in a famous restaurant on one of the islands (prebooked). Your three-island tour returns you to Stresa in the afternoon, to enjoy the town and a dinner of your choice in one of many restaurants.

3rd Day: In the morning visit Villa Taranto in Pallanza, lovingly created by a Scottish sea captain and now considered one of the most important botanical gardens in Europe. After a cappuccino break on the bank of tiny Lago Mergozzo continue to Lake Orta, said by some to be the most romantic of Italian lakes. Orta S. Giulio is a gem of history and art; medieval buildings in the town centre, Isola San Giulio with its Romanesque church and narrow alleys, the Sacre Monto dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi, and much more await. End the day
with a dinner of traditional Piemontese cuisine (prebooked).

4th Day: After a good breakfast travel up the mountain by cablecar! The summit of Mt. Mottarone offers 360° views of the Alps, seven lakes, and on a clear day, even the Duomo in Milano! Hike a bit, then enjoy lunch in a restaurant where local mountain dishes are served. Return via cablecar with plenty of time for shopping, strolling, then dinner and gelato in town.

5th Day: Breakfast and departure.



And… depending on the time of year and the day of the week, enjoy the weekly markets in Stresa and the opportunity to attend a performance of the world famous Stresa Festivale Musicale!

SERVICES INCLUDED IN THE PACKAGE:
4 nights in a lakefront room with en suite bath;
Breakfast at your hotel.
Aperitivo wine tasting at a favorite local wine bar;
Private water taxi for sightseeing in the Borromean Gulf;
Private car and driver for visiting Pallanza, Lago Mergozzo, and Lago Orta.
Lunch in a restaurant on Isola Pescatori or Isola Bella (3-course meal, drinks not included);
Piemontese dinner in a restaurant with a view (3-course meal, drinks not included);
Lunch (tasting-session) in a restaurant on the Mottarone Peak (3-course meal, drinks not included).

Entry tickets to the palaces on the islands (Isola Bella and Madre, Euro 16.50), Villa Taranto (9.00 Euro), and the Mottarone Cableway (18.00 Euro) are not included.

Rates are based on availability, season, and number of travelers. Please call or write for more information.

Sunday, April 6, 2008

eagle


eagle
Originally uploaded by drkevinyee
We saw this eagle less than a mile from WDW - eating a rabbit, five feet from us on the side of the road.

Long live Flamingo Crossings!

Destination Birmingham - A Must See With Your Own Car Hire

When you travel to the UK one of the towns you surely will want to pay a visit s Birmingham. Birmingham is home to two airports, and the Birmingham International is the most utilized by business travelers outside if London. It is accessible by most major European cities, and also a few USA and Canada airports. One arrange a car hire directly from the many companies focused on car hire Birmingham Airport and then travel at their leisure through the wonderful city. There are five particular things visitors to Birmingham generally will want to do, besides the traditional Balti restaurants available. The Punjabi cooking style originated here, and is a great dining experience for visitors as well as locals. The first activity to include is geared toward the chocolate lover in all of us. Cadbury World is a museum located just outside the city where George Cadbury was a true pioneer. There are plenty of motorways to get to the museum, and several brown colored sign posts that will help along the way. Be sure to plan time to visit the demonstration area where Cadbury World workers will assist you in writing your name with liquid Chocolate!

Then let your dreams sparkle at the Jewellery Quarter where precious stones and metals have been weaved into masterpieces for over 350 years. The area has available shopping within its community of craftspeople for the jewelry shopping dreams are made of. Almost forty percent of all the jewelry in the UK was made here. Then one must experience the art world at its finest at the Ikon Gallery. The neo-gothic building is home to the most memorable lift in the world. As you ascend the floors you will hear a choir performing a single chord together, then as you rise through the each gallery floor the lower notes fall away with the ground. At the apex there is a single soprano tone left audible. Then the descent provides the reassembly of the chord. It is an unmatched experience.

For access to theaters, concerts, and attractions one can visit the tourism and ticket shop located at the Rotunda, on 150 New Street. Here visitors can find information about all activities in the city, as well as gift shops, and a fax and copy service. This serves as a "home base" of sorts for all activities. There are maps for those who arrange a car hire. Birmingham is quite manageable for foreign drivers if they plan ahead. Designer shops galore are found a the Mailbox, named for the former sorting office located on its spot. The most famous fashions in home décor and clothing are found here, along with the top UK department store Harvey Nichols. Next door is the Birmingham Malmaison Hotel, and more than 12 restaurants and bars to visit. As with most places in Europe, the car hire UK offers are a great way to plan out your holiday. Birmingham has such incredible shopping one will want an auto with a super-sized boot to haul all the loot.

Car Hire In Turin Italy's Motor City

When you travel to Europe or any its countries, the best way to explore its rich heritage, beauty and visit places of tourist interest is to have your own transport. If you happen to be in Italy and intend to go around Turin, motor car city to a rapidly modernizing city, the best way to move around will be in a car, hired from Car Hire Italy. Car Hire Italy is tourist friendly and it takes a short while to complete easy to follow formalities and drive car of your choice to go places in Turin. Do you know the capital of motor car industry? It is Turin.

Turin's huge heritage is reflected through its cultural institutions which not only represent wide and diverse areas of knowledge but are also known for their dynamic growth and progress. Can you have a better place to study history, economics and basic sciences than Turin University; answer would be a certain no. Turin also has a universally acknowledged center for learning mathematics and engineering. It is Polytechnic of Turin University which houses this center of mathematics and engineering. Turin, do you know, can boast of some world class libraries which are full of rare and ancient books, documents and monographs and other reference materials. You may not be able to find any of these rare books, documents or monographs elsewhere in Europe. Turin is a show case of modern day Europe. Its dynamism is acting as a catalyst for its modernization, a process that no other Italian city can match. This city of motor car is now also known as a centre of advanced technology and integrated productive systems. Turin is also a happening place. Historically speaking, it has been the capital or governing city of Savoy Kingdom and also of the Alpine peaks. Turin and cinema are also inseparable.

Can you miss visiting the Alpine peaks? Car Hire Turin will make you mobile and take you places. It has various packages available to make your stay in Turin comfortable and enjoyable. How do you move around and explore Turin's rich heritage. Car Hire Turin has the answers. Museums in Turin are known for their precious and unprecedented collections. If you are visiting Turin and are an automobile enthusiast, visiting the National Motor Car Museum should be a must for you. Here in this museum, you can trace the history or evolution of motor car, right from the ancient steam-run car engines to the present day racing models and super fast luxury cars. New inventions in motor car industry, which are designed to meet ecological requirements or neutralize green house effect, are also reflected in the museum. You with the help of Car Hire Turin must visit the car museum, and each of its four important segments. The erstwhile Lingo to car factory has now been transformed into a center of latest services, cultural events and a hotel; the medieval steel and iron industrial hub has now been the new house of the Europe's first environmental technological park (Environment Park).

Car Rental In Germany Isn't Really That Hard

Germany is a little gem, largely undiscovered by tourists but it has a great deal to offer with a varied history and exiting landscape. Like the Germans, you must look passed their previous history and enjoy the country for what it has now become which is a modern society proud of its re-invention and acceptance as a global power. With some stunning countryside scenery with quaint villages and impressive cities, there is a great deal to see in Germany but you will probably require a car to take full advantage. Car rental in Germany isn't really that hard to book, well, just to be safe, a good piece of advice is to book your car rental, way before you even set foot in the country.

Don't expect every German to speak English fluently because like France, it is not their second language. It's best that you find a good, reputable and affordable car rental for Germany while you're still planning your trip, this way, you can spare your self the hassle of ending up with a vehicle that you're not comfortable in, much worse, nothing at all. Sometimes it is easy to underestimate how many miles there are between places you want to visit and a little forward planning can make all the difference between an enjoyable trip and a nightmare one. This will help you decide whether or not to actually rent a car in Germany at all as you may find that trains and coaches will do the job just as well.

When working this out, think about the costs involved of renting a car in Germany and whether it will be worth it for your full stay. Many people familiar with driving on the left side of the road do not feel they can easily adapt to driving on the right side of the road. Perhaps this should have been mentioned earlier on because for many people when they travel abroad, there is a good possibility that they will be in a country where drivers are on the opposite side to what they are familiar with. If this proves to be a hassle for you, ask your vacation companions if they're comfortable driving on the right side of the road, anyone who's more than willing to act as your designated driver will solve your problem easily. An easy but possibly costly way out of this predicament is to arrange for a driver on those days when you will be touring. Don't forget you will need a driver who can speak English, although they do not have to be fluent, just as long as they can understand what it is you want. Your vacation is supposed to be a stress free, relaxing time so make sure this small detail is not overlooked. Anticipate these sorts of problems in advance and you are almost assured a stress free vacation whether you rent a car in Germany or not plus there is every chance that a large sum of money will be saved.
Tags: Car Rental Company Rates Car Rentals by City Cheap Costa Rica Car Hire in Gran Canaria Reservations Holiday Car Hire Enterprise Auto Rentals Monthly Los Angeles Sydney Australia Payless Rental SUV Rental Online Reservations Discount Car and Truck Rental

Saturday, April 5, 2008

Samba Room

Samba Room would like to invite you to our Ladies' Night every Wednesday starting April 2nd.
~ Free original Mojitos for the ladies from 6-7 p.m.
~ Free hors'doeurves from 7-8 p.m.
~ Live entertainment from 5-8 p.m.

And gentelmen don't think we forgot about you...

Join us every night from 4-7 p.m. for our Happy Hour.
~ Half Priced Domestics, House Wines, Wells and Mojitos.

We hope to see you soon :)

Samba Room - Orlando is located at:

7468 West Sand Lake Road
Orlando, FL 32819
Phone: 407.226.0550
Fax: 407.226.7226

Friday, April 4, 2008

Orlando Suite Hotels Offer Homey Touches for Travelers

It’s been said that the family that plays together stays together, but even the closest families need a little space. Orlando suite hotels provide all of the amenities that travelers are looking for, easy access to the attractions, plus plenty of room to relax.

Orlando suite hotels such as the Royale Parc Suites offer a choice of roomy one bedroom suites or spacious two bedroom suites with well-equipped kitchenettes. Themed rooms are also popular among Orlando suite hotels—the Sheraton Safari Hotel & Suites has 90 safari suites with 504 square ft. of space, and the Nickelodeon Family Suites by Holiday Inn has Kid Suites where guests can rent video games and movies under the watchful eyes of their favorite Nicktoons characters.

Business travelers will appreciate the homey touches at Orlando suite hotels, with Internet access and generous work space. Whatever reason travelers have for visiting Orlando, a suite hotel can accommodate their needs.

Thursday, April 3, 2008

Great American Pie Festival Comes to Celebration

2008 Great American Pie Festival Comes to Celebration, FL April 19 – 20

Who doesn’t appreciate a slice of homemade pie? The 2008 Great American Pie Festival will take place just minutes away from Walt Disney World in Celebration, FL on April 19 - 20. This annual event, organized by the American Pie Council, has been featured on the Food Network. Amateur and professional bakers from across the nation will compete in the 2008 Great American Pie Festival, and the general public is invited to enjoy a weekend packed with fun events.

Activities include children’s pie making, cooking demonstrations, games and crafts, a pie eating contest, and the Never-Ending Pie Buffet, featuring award winning pies, ice cream, toppings and beverages. Admission to the buffet is $10 for adults, $5 for seniors and children age 6-12.

Contest participants and pie enthusiasts will be staying at the Orlando Sun Resort and Convention Center in Kissimmee. Other resorts in the Celebration/Kissimmee area include the BellaVida Resort and the Encantada Resort.

Wednesday, April 2, 2008

Encantada Resort

We really enjoyed our stay at encatada. The reosrt is very well maintained and the townhomes are spacious! It is truly a beatiful and relaxing time. Also, it is near every attraction in Orlando! We will visit again! Ingrid and Jeremy are very accomodating and do an excellent job as ombudsmen (and women) !
PS: two suggestions:
1. put a key pad by the gym. It would be nice to work out early in the mornings!
2. sign in sheets for the computer lab are needed.

Thanks Again!

Posted by guest BM

Tuesday, April 1, 2008

Orlando Hotels on International Drive Close to all the Attractions

There are several reasons why savvy travelers choose Orlando hotels on International Drive when they plan their vacations. Orlando hotels on International Drive are strategically located close to all of the main attractions: Walt Disney World and Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure are just minutes away, and many Orlando hotels on International Drive provide shuttle service to one or both resorts.

Between all of the available attractions and restaurants, it’s possible to spend an entire vacation on International Drive: outlet shopping malls are located on either end of the strip, and “I-Drive” is also home to Wet ‘n’ Wild, SeaWorld, Aquatica, and the Orange County Convention Center.

Families will appreciate the “Kids eat FREE” programs at many Orlando hotels on International Drive, including the Rodeway Inn, Quality Inn Orlando, and Quality Inn Plaza. By taking the airport shuttle to the hotel, busy families can spend less money on food and transportation and more time enjoying their time together.

Car Rental Rates And How To Take Advantage Of Them

Car rental rates are usually governed to some extent by length of rental so you can get hourly rates, daily rates, weekly rates, even monthly rates if you plan to rent a car as an alternative to short term leasing. In between all of these there are also things like special “weekend” rates (which can be as long as 4 days) and a range of other rates depending on when the rental company needs to move it’s fleet around.
All very interesting you might think, but how does that benefit you? Well, just having an idea that this is how the rates work means that with a little flexibility in your travel arrangements you could save yourself a lot of money.
To demonstrate this, let’s take an example of two rental requests with very small differences to the rental but huge impact to the cost.
Rental 1 Check out on Thursday morning at 11:30 am Return on Monday at 12:30pm
Rental 2 Check out on Thursday at 12:00 noon Return on Monday at 11:30am
While the two rentals look very similar they would be charged very differently. For instance Car Hire Company X will charge Rental 1 out as a 5 day rental on their daily rates, but Rental 2 from the same company would be a 4 day rental on their discounted weekend rates. So, half an hour or so adjustments to your journey can make a big difference.
John Abrahams is a life long traveller and works on various web projects including contributions at Popular Car Hire where he is a consultant editor working on the Car Hire Guide.

Car Rental Rates And How To Take Advantage Of Them

Car rental rates are usually governed to some extent by length of rental so you can get hourly rates, daily rates, weekly rates, even monthly rates if you plan to rent a car as an alternative to short term leasing. In between all of these there are also things like special “weekend” rates (which can be as long as 4 days) and a range of other rates depending on when the rental company needs to move it’s fleet around.
All very interesting you might think, but how does that benefit you? Well, just having an idea that this is how the rates work means that with a little flexibility in your travel arrangements you could save yourself a lot of money.
To demonstrate this, let’s take an example of two rental requests with very small differences to the rental but huge impact to the cost.
Rental 1 Check out on Thursday morning at 11:30 am Return on Monday at 12:30pm
Rental 2 Check out on Thursday at 12:00 noon Return on Monday at 11:30am
While the two rentals look very similar they would be charged very differently. For instance Car Hire Company X will charge Rental 1 out as a 5 day rental on their daily rates, but Rental 2 from the same company would be a 4 day rental on their discounted weekend rates. So, half an hour or so adjustments to your journey can make a big difference.
John Abrahams is a life long traveller and works on various web projects including contributions at Popular Car Hire where he is a consultant editor working on the Car Hire Guide.

Car Rental Agency

Have you ever rented a car? Are you needing a to rent a car for holiday or business purposes? Do you know who to contact and what you need? How do you know that you are getting the best possible price/ the purpose of this article is to inform you of the ins and outs of the car rental agency? We will also answer some of the most frequently asked questions about rental and car rental agencies.
I have never rented a car before, what do I need to do? You need to ring up several car rental agencies and ask what they require. Most require that your are at least 18 and have a major credit card. You don’t necessarily have to pay with the card but you need one many times for insurance purposes.
What does a car rental agency actually do? The car rental agency will take you reservation and hold the care for you once you confirm. The car rental agency will also draw up the rental contract and arrange for the insurance should you choose to purchase it.
Are there any other things that car rental agencies do? Yes, they provide 24 hour assistance should you have a problem with your car. Should you unfortunately have an accident with your rental car then your car rental agency is one of the first places you contact after the police. Most of the major companies have 24 hour emergency contact numbers available to give you assistance in matters like this.
How do I find a good car rental agency? There are tons of places available. The phonebook and the internet are 2 excellent sources. It’s up to you to get in touch with them.
If you are in need of a car rental then you need a car rental agency. They will help you through the rental process and get you on the road as soon as possible.
For more information on Car Rentals visit http://www.allcarrentals.info.

Enterprise Car Rental

If you are looking for a good quality rental car then as far as companies are concerned you are spoiled for choice. The range of car rental agencies available is staggering. All of them advertise good quality service at affordable rates. When choosing a car rental agency perhaps giving enterprise car rental a call would be a good move.
One of the great advantages to enterprise car rental is their availability. Enterprise car rental has offices available in all 50 states. They are also available in Canada and several countries overseas. Enterprise has offices in nearly every US airport as well as contacts in most major cities. Enterprise is available to you in nearly every destination you wish to travel to.
Another advantage to Enterprise car rental is there rates. Enterprise car rental has rates to suit nearly any budget and tries to remain competitive with all other major rental car companies. Enterprise also frequently runs special offers and rates so be sure to ask.
Finally, Enterprise offers a wide range of choice when it comes to cars. Whether your looking for a little subcompact car or the finest in luxury vehicles, enterprise will likely have something available to suit your needs.
Enterprise car renal is one of the largest car rental agencies in the country. There are people on hand 24 hours a day to answer your questions and if need be make your reservation. Enterprise car rental promises, fast friendly and efficient service and will make the rental process more pleasant.
If you’re needing a car, give enterprise a call. Whether you’re in Phoenix or Florida, New York or North Dakota, Enterprise can help. Give Enterprise car rental a call as soon as you know your travel plans. You’ll be glad you did.
For more information on Car Rentals visit http://www.allcarrentals.info

Car Rental Agency

Have you ever rented a car? Are you needing a to rent a car for holiday or business purposes? Do you know who to contact and what you need? How do you know that you are getting the best possible price/ the purpose of this article is to inform you of the ins and outs of the car rental agency? We will also answer some of the most frequently asked questions about rental and car rental agencies.
I have never rented a car before, what do I need to do? You need to ring up several car rental agencies and ask what they require. Most require that your are at least 18 and have a major credit card. You don’t necessarily have to pay with the card but you need one many times for insurance purposes.
What does a car rental agency actually do? The car rental agency will take you reservation and hold the care for you once you confirm. The car rental agency will also draw up the rental contract and arrange for the insurance should you choose to purchase it.
Are there any other things that car rental agencies do? Yes, they provide 24 hour assistance should you have a problem with your car. Should you unfortunately have an accident with your rental car then your car rental agency is one of the first places you contact after the police. Most of the major companies have 24 hour emergency contact numbers available to give you assistance in matters like this.
How do I find a good car rental agency? There are tons of places available. The phonebook and the internet are 2 excellent sources. It’s up to you to get in touch with them.
If you are in need of a car rental then you need a car rental agency. They will help you through the rental process and get you on the road as soon as possible.
For more information on Car Rentals visit http://www.allcarrentals.info.

Enterprise Car Rental

If you are looking for a good quality rental car then as far as companies are concerned you are spoiled for choice. The range of car rental agencies available is staggering. All of them advertise good quality service at affordable rates. When choosing a car rental agency perhaps giving enterprise car rental a call would be a good move.
One of the great advantages to enterprise car rental is their availability. Enterprise car rental has offices available in all 50 states. They are also available in Canada and several countries overseas. Enterprise has offices in nearly every US airport as well as contacts in most major cities. Enterprise is available to you in nearly every destination you wish to travel to.
Another advantage to Enterprise car rental is there rates. Enterprise car rental has rates to suit nearly any budget and tries to remain competitive with all other major rental car companies. Enterprise also frequently runs special offers and rates so be sure to ask.
Finally, Enterprise offers a wide range of choice when it comes to cars. Whether your looking for a little subcompact car or the finest in luxury vehicles, enterprise will likely have something available to suit your needs.
Enterprise car renal is one of the largest car rental agencies in the country. There are people on hand 24 hours a day to answer your questions and if need be make your reservation. Enterprise car rental promises, fast friendly and efficient service and will make the rental process more pleasant.
If you’re needing a car, give enterprise a call. Whether you’re in Phoenix or Florida, New York or North Dakota, Enterprise can help. Give Enterprise car rental a call as soon as you know your travel plans. You’ll be glad you did.
For more information on Car Rentals visit http://www.allcarrentals.info