Festival of Trees Returns to Orlando Museum of Art

The 22nd annual Festival of Trees at the Orlando Museum of Art is a popular holiday tradition for Orlando residents and a great excuse for visitors to see some of the cultural attractions in downtown Orlando. The Festival of Trees at the Orlando Museum of Art kicks off on Saturday, November 15 and lasts for nine days, with a Festival Finale scheduled for Sunday, November 23.

The Festival of Trees is presented by the Council of 101 to benefit the Orlando Museum of Art. The entire museum is transformed into a Florida-style Winter Wonderland to showcase designer decorated trees, wreaths and gingerbread houses (which are available for sale), as well as holiday vignettes, a gift boutique, special demonstrations, and live musical entertainment. A kids’ area, known as Toyland Town, has crafting activities that will keep even the youngest visitors amused.
The Festival of Trees will be open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. The ticket prices are as follows: General Admission $10 adults, $6 children (ages 3-12), General Admission Group Discount (groups of 25 or more), $2 off adult and $1 off child admission. A full description of the Festival of Trees and a listing of evening events and ticket prices is available at Festival of Trees and for Hotel in Orlando

Driving a Rental Car into Canada

I'm looking to rent a car in Seattle and drive it into Canada. Will car rental companies allow me to do this?

I checked with each individual company website for clarification on this question for you. These are the results.


Alamo - yes, as long as you return it back in the US

Avis - yes - "US cars may be driven into Canada by US residents. A Canadian non-resident insurance card may be required and is available at the Avis rental location."

Budget - yes -"US cars may be driven into Canada by US residents. A Canadian non-resident insurance card may be required and is available at the Avis rental location."

Dollar - probably - "At most Dollar car rental locations, driving is restricted to the Continental United States and Canada. Please refer to the Local Policies, found within the reservation process, for specific information regarding geographic limitations at the Dollar rental car location where you intend to rent a Dollar vehicle."


Enterprise - maybe - "Some offices will allow their vehicles to cross international boundaries.
Please contact the office that you plan to rent from to see if they allowtheir vehicles to cross into another country. You can find an office phone number at www.enterprise.com."

Hertz - yes - "The renter will need to advise the rental counter if they intend to drive into Canada.


You must have a valid license and rental record. Rentals from this city (Seattle) do not require presentation of Liability Protection Letters, Certificates or Stickers at Customs for driving into Canada."

National - yes - "Any U.S. Citizen renting a vehicle in the U.S. may drive across the U.S./Canadian border with no restrictions. The driver may be asked by Customs to show a rental agreement and a form of identification, such as a driver's license. "

Thrifty - could find no information on their website, it gives you the option of submitting an email to ask this question.


Hope this helps!

How The Grinch Stole Christmas

At Islands of Adventure, The Grinch and The Whos from Whoville sing their hearts out about the true meaning of Christmas in the park’s special holiday Grinchmas show – featuring music specially created by holiday music sensation Mannheim Steamroller.
Just one park over, guests line the streets of Universal Studios to see the larger than life Macy’s balloons and floats that make up the Macy’s Holiday Parade along with special performances by marching bands from across the country.
It’s the holidays at Universal Orlando Resort – and Grinchmas, the Macy’s Holiday Parade and other special events run from December 6 through January 1.
Universal Orlando Resort kicks off the holiday season this year with live performances by Christmas music mega-sensation Mannheim Steamroller, who will perform two live concerts at Universal Studios Florida on Saturday, December 6. The Grammy Award-winning, platinum-selling group will play songs created specifically for the resort’s original holiday stage show “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” as well as brand-new music from their newly released album Christmasville. Founder Chip Davis will join Mannheim Steamroller in his only scheduled appearance of the holiday season. “We are extremely excited to partner with Universal Orlando Resort for their holiday celebration,” said Chip Davis, founder of Mannheim Steamroller. Mannheim Steamroller’s performances are just the start of the month-long holiday festivities at Universal Orlando. Beginning December 6 and running through January 1, the resort’s celebration will include the specially themed Grinchmas show and Macy’s Holiday Parade.
At Islands of Advenure, the popular Dr. Seuss book “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” is brought to life in Grinchmas, a live stage show featuring an original musical score by Mannheim Steamroller. Next door at Universal Studios, the world-renowned balloons and floats from Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade return. Guests can experience the excitement of the New York City tradition as the Macy’s Holiday Parade cruises through the streets of the park. In addition to the parade, Universal Studios guests can enjoy performances by marching bands from across the country, a nightly Christmas tree lighting, as well as specially themed holiday shows including The Blues Brothers, Woody Woodpecker’s Kidzone and Barney.

1st Annual UGLY HOLIDAY SWEATER Party

1st Annual UGLY HOLIDAY SWEATER PartyDecember 11, 20087:30pm - whenever

This event is supporting the BETA Center!!!

Admission: Bring an item on the BETA Center Wish List ($5 donation)*View list online at http://www.central/ Florida Gator Club.com

RSVP to UFYoungAlum@gmail.com

DETAILS:

2 for 1 Drinks - Beer, Wine, Wells • Specialty Drinks ($4): SWAMP JUICE, THE FLORIDA GATOR, GATORTINI

LIVE MUSIC • LIGHT APPETIZERS •BID on a BOX (Great gifts - ends 9pm)

THE UGLIER THE SWEATER, THE BETTER THE PARTY!!!

CONTACT:Amy HorningUFyoungalum@gmail.com407-679-8900http://www.centralfloridagatorclub.com/

John Legend

Grammy-winning multi-platinum recording artist John Legend has confirmed a new round of concert dates -- his first shows in 2009 -- on his forthcoming North American tour. The 2nd leg of John's North American concert tour runs from January 12 through February 7. He will appear at Orlando's Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre on Wednesday, January 28th, 2009, 8 pm.
Buy tickets on Ticketmaster.com, the #1 ticketing portal on the web

Disputing Car Rental Charges

Sunpass and Car Rental Company in Orlando?

We visited Orlando a month ago. We just got unpaid toll notice for a $0.75 toll plus a $25 admin fee charged by the rental company. I felt we've got ripped off by the state gov and car rental company because we were forced to pass the electronic only toll booth even we didn't mean to pass without pay (Those lines are for Sunpass drivers only and the sign isn't clear to vistors. In addition, drivers have no way to back out from these lines and no way to pay once when you enter these lines) This is unfair and wrong that they do this to their visitors. Should I blame the state or the car rental? Where should/can I file my complain?? How can the state allow the car rental company charge a $25 fee over a $0.75 unpaid toll (espeically in this case that they made people have no way to pay by sitting up those eletronic only toll booths)

I'm not sure how you would dispute the toll from the government, but you might try contacting the state tourism department to see if you have any options there.

You can also try disputing the charge with the rental car company for the $25 fee that they charged. You can do this through their customer service or customer relations department. If you still have your contract, check over it carefully to find out if there is any information on it that states the penalty or charge for an unpaid toll or parking ticket.

Hope this helps and good luck.

The Polar Express Experience at Sea World Orlando

Jump aboard The Polar Express Experience when it rolls into SeaWorld this holiday season beginning Nov. 14, 2008 and continuing through Jan. 4, 2009. SeaWorld's Wild Arctic transforms into the fabled Santa Town taking guests on a magical trip to the North Pole.
The Polar Express Experience is based on the Warner Bros. Pictures and Shangri-La Entertainment film, inspired by the beloved Caldecott Medal-winning children's book by Chris Van Allsburg. The Polar Express Experience is a heart-warming journey, where families share in the excitement and wonder of a truly unforgettable train ride. The adventure unfolds on a Christmas Eve night with a young boy lying awake, eagerly listening for the sound of Santa's ringing sleigh bells. Filled with excitement and awe, the boy races out his front door, dashes across the freshly fallen snow and climbs aboard The Polar Express.
As the train's whistle blows, guests embark on the same adventure as they board The Polar Express Experience to the North Pole. Classic scenes from the movie are recreated in a multi-sensory experience immersing passengers in special lighting, scent, sound and motion effects. Upon arrival guests find themselves within a winter wonderland surrounded by holiday cheer, graceful beluga whales, powerful polar bears and giant walruses. They will delight in the smell of Christmas cookies filling the air and bright lights glistening on a festive towering tree as families greet Santa and share in a magical moment.
Across the way, just as the winter air cools and the evening stars appear, families can join Shamu for a magnificent holiday show: "Shamu Christmas … Miracles.” Shamu Stadium will illuminate with bright lights and glowing candles as Christmas carols adored and Shamu splashes to celebrate the holiday season.
Dazzling families for the holidays this year at SeaWorld's Bayside Stadium is the Orlando Philharmonic. Beginning Dec. 26 through Dec. 30, jovial scores from the Original Motion Picture Soundtrack, "The Polar Express” will fill the air. After the concert, a splendid array of fireworks will paint the night sky.
While strolling around SeaWorld's lake or through The Waterfront's holiday-themed array of gift shops and restaurants, families can wander along a winter scene as glistening snow flurries fill the air and spectacular fountains dance to the merry musical sounds of Christmas.
Igniting the spirit of the season is the "Makahiki Christmas Luau,” a South Seas-style festive celebration including succulent island cuisine keeping with the ancient holiday traditions of the Pacific Islands. Joyful songs of the season are reinterpreted with Polynesian rhythms, music and dance during this festive holiday celebration.

Indy Racing Experience and Richard Petty Driving Experience

Recently I had the opportunity to spend a day doing the Indy Racing experience and Richard Petty Driving Experience, and the results of that day were something I have to express my pleasure in.

It left me with a great respect for the group who run the experience as well as having spent a day doing something that was exhilarating and fun.

The preparation for your ride is absolutely uncompromising, with safety being the first order of the day for the folks at the Walt Disney Speedway, so they really set you up well and spend a lot of time preparing you for your experience.
Everything you need to accomplish your experience is part of the package, so the only thing you really need to bring is yourself. You are given your uniform, gloves, helmets and everything you're going to need to make the ride perfect for you. All you need to concentrate on is having a good time, and who among us can't do that?

Once you're in place all you really need to do is to look straight ahead and go, but since this was my first time, let me just tell you that my hands were glued to the handlebars and I was a little apprehensive, but after the first lap, it was like riding the wind.
The entire experience was a fast awesome experience, just a complete rush, something that is hard to describe unless you've done, and I certainly recommend that everyone do.
Both teams are giving you all the details you could want or need, and everyone is incredibly attentive to you, giving you support as well as bits of information, assuring that you have the most wonderful ride imaginable.

I absolutely recommend this and let me tell, there isn't a doubt in my mind that I'm going to go and do it again ... and again... For more information check out their websites Indy Racing and 1800BEPETTY

Trip to Orlando

On your next trip to Orlando for vacation, why not visit the one place where you can expect the best treatment and the most wonderful amenities in the area.
With three locations to serve your needs, the Orlando Fun Spots promises you the vacation of a lifetime.
The Lake Buena Vista Resort features a heated pool, a hot tub, a childrens pool, exercise areas, free transport to Disney World Theme Park, as well as free transportation to shop at their on site factory retail outlets as well.
Every room at Lake Buena Vista will be somewhere you want to spend your evenings.
Featuring luxury linens, ceramic tile bathrooms, gorgeous cherry furniture and in room soaps and shampoos courtesy of Bath and Body Works.

If you're thinking more along the lines of something along a major highway,. Holiday Inn is an official Good Neighbor hotel, full service and can be found just a bit over two miles from the main entrance of Walt Disney World® resort's main entrance.
It features complimentary scheduled transportation to the Magic Kingdom® Park, Epcot®,Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Park and Lake Buena Vista Factory Outlet stores where you can shop til you drop before heading out to see the rest of the area.
You can also purchase tickets to th ose attractions you'd particularly like to see in the hotel lobby.

Fun Spots Hotel too is an official vender of Disney Tickets, and is a more limited service hotel, also located on Highway 192. Limited service doesn't mean limited fun however and the hotel does feature complimentary transport to the local attractions such as Magic Kingdom, Epcot, The outlet stores as well as offering air conditioning, color televisions, movie channels, refrigerators in each room and a weekly rate for those of you who want to save a buck but don't want to sacrifice the fun and the amenities.

When its time for you to get away from it all, Orlandos Fun Spots are waiting for you and your family.

Renting a Car When You Don't Have Your Own Insurance

What info do you need to get a rental car?
I'm 27 and looking to get a rental car; I don't have car insurance and I wanted to know how much more is that and what all of my information they need to get me into a car please let me know this information thank you.

The majority of car rental companies carry basic public liability and property damage coverage on their own vehicles. Double check with the car rental company you want to rent from to make sure. This coverage would cover you for any public liability claims, damage to someone else's car or property. It would not cover the rental car for any loss or damage.

Check you credit card to see what kind of coverage is offered for CDW or LDW on a rental car. If you don't feel that you would be adequately covered by your credit card, you can purchase loss damage waiver coverage from the car rental company. The prices range from company to company and state to state, and often vary depending on the size vehicle you rent,

When you start pricing a car, make sure to calculate the cost of any extra insurance when looking at your total. If you want to rent a car and purchase optional coverage, make sure to compare the total rate for the reservation, not just the base rate per day for the vehicle itself.

Things to do in Florida

Edison and Ford Holiday Nights
Vista Cay in Orlando
Captiva Island
The Grand Hotel in Downtown Clearwater, Florida
Things to do in St. Augustine, Florida
The Hampton Inn and Suites, Orlando
Kennedy Space Center Endeavor Launch
Daytona Beach Florida
Apopka Plant Nurseries
Beachfront Hotels in Miami, Florida

Mottarone in Autumn

The first snow of the year… Well, not in Stresa, but up at the top of Mottarone Mountain, 1491 meters (4920 feet) above Stresa, there has been snow in the past days. Not enough to block the roads either, but just enough to change the view from one of a dry, brown, autumn landscape into an early winter one, with a glowing, brilliant white surface. Choose a clear autumn day, and take a trip up the mountain for a temporary taste of winter and a breathtaking view of northern Italy.

There are two ways to reach the summit from Stresa. It’s an easy enough, 30-minute drive up a private, 9 kilometer (5 ½ mile) winding road. Follow the signs and the switchbacks until you reach the park at the top. The alternative is to take the funivia, the cableway from the Lido in Stresa, the same location as the Carciano boat station and L’Idrovolante Ristorante and Bar. The 18-minute ride gives the opportunity to relax and watch the view change as you rise higher and higher above the lake.

Bring your warm scarf, and your gloves, and an extra layer to wear. Once up at the top you’ll need them. When the wind is strong, it will be quite frigid, but this has advantages as well. With wind the skies can be crystal clear, and when the skies are clear it is possible to have a 360° view of seven surrounding lakes and the Swiss Alps to the north. Monterosa, which is the highest peak in Switzerland, can be seen to the northwest, and if you are really lucky, you may be able to see the golden statue of the Virgin Mary, on top of the Duomo, about 70 kilometers (44 miles) away, in Milan.

After some minutes outside in the mountaintop air you’ll need to warm up. Luckily, there are several restaurants at the summit that serve typical mountain foods and warm drinks. I like Casa della Neve, House of the Snow. And there’s no better way to ward off a chill there than with a glass of fil-de-fir, the classic regional drink. First produced at a small distillery on Monterosa, the drink is served warm in a small glass, like the type you may use for orange juice. The drink looks a bit as if you melted down an orange creamsicle into a glass and then heated it. It’s difficult to explain; better if I use the description written about it when it won the “Spirits of the Year’ gold medal award in 2001: mottarone mottarone mottarone mottarone mottarone

“Vibrant, creamy orange. Nutmeg, orange peel, and farmer's cream nose. Very viscous on the attack with subtle orange blossom and lush brown spice notes. Displays a very pure and distinctive egg nog-like character with an angular grappa-like undertone. Serving hot brings out attractive egg white elements and better integrates the flavors with the thick texture. Unique and utterly captivating.” mttarone mottarone mottarone mottarone mottarone mottarone

I completely agree. So, wrap your cold hands around your glass of fil-de-fer, head over to the fireplace, and relax on the couches for a while. You’ll be almost on the border of Italy and Switzerland, somewhere between autumn and winter, but on top of it all.

Mottarone has its charms in all four seasons, winter, spring, summer, and fall. For cableway prices and schedules, and more information, visit the website: www.stresa-mottarone.it/home_eng

Car Rental Border Crossing

Is it better to rent a car in Canada or the USA, for travel in the USA? Any experts on Car rentals?

It depends on whether or not you are coming back into canada and where your license is issued from. Here are the basic rules:

If you’re a U.S resident, you may drive a rental car into Canada. However, you must let the rental company know when you pick up your car that you plan to drive into Canada. The rental company must issue you a Canadian Non-Resident Insurance Card. This applies to rentals of all U.S.-registered cars.

If you’re a Canadian resident, Canadian Customs regulations prohibit you from entering Canada with a U.S.registered car. Renters with a Canadian driver’s license and a car with a U.S. license plate won’t be allowed to cross the border into Canada. Customers with a Canadian driver’s license planning to cross the border into Canada must be provided with a vehicle with a Canadian license plate. Make sure you discuss this with the rental counter before you pick up your vehicle.

Most Canadian rental companies will allow Canadian and U.S. residents to take a Canadian registered car into the States. Make sure to check with your rental location to see if there are any restrictions on where you can drive.

Hope this helps!

Gaylord Palms Prepares for the Holidays on ICE!

Who said that it never gets cold in Orlando? The Gaylord Palms’ annual holiday attraction Ice! will be the site of the inaugural plunge of Orlando's new Polar Bear Club. “Polar Bears” usually take the plunge by jumping into winter waters of much colder climes, like the Great Lakes, but Orlando's chapter will don their bathing suits and brave the 9-degree air temperatures of the Ice! Exhibits. The club event is slated for Nov. 28 at 8:30 a.m. And considering how much thinner everyone’s blood is once they’ve been living in Florida for a while, Orlando’s Polar Bears might just feel that much colder.

The special Orlando Polar Bear Club ticket is $19.99 plus tax, and includes the warm-up coffee and cocoa reception and a commemorative certificate, plus a chance to go through ICE! again later that morning, fully clothed, to observe the massive ice sculptures that have made ICE! an annual holiday tradition for Orlando residents and visitors.
Gaylord Palms is also offering an expanded version of Parrandas Night—known as the Noche de Parrandas at ICE!—which is an after-hours event on Dec. 6 that will celebrate Puerto Rican holiday traditions. Other special-ticket options include the “Cold Feet” marriage-proposal package and free children's admission for theme-park pass holders. Standard admission for the attraction ranges from $9.99 to $24.99 a person.

The Market Report, 2

Friday, and so I bring you another market report from the Stresa Outdoor Market. The weather is getting colder; there was a chilly wind today too, and as I strolled through the market to pick up my roast chicken I knew exactly what else it was that I wanted to shop for. A sciarpa, a scarf. Of course I have scarves already; it is practically a law that women must wear them here, but on this stormy morning I was feeling I needed a warmer one. Something soft and toasty and fluffy. I am in luck, because the vendors, in their prescience, know that I am not the only one who will be shopping for a scarf in these days, and the stalls are filled with choices. I see scarves of all sizes, materials, patterns, and weaves. Mostly I see purple. Purple is definitely the color of the season, and not only for scarves. The market is a sea of purple, violet, and lavender. This is what I like best about visiting the market weekly… the constant change and the speed with which trends and tastes make their way here. Quindi, therefore, I buy the fluffiest, warmest, purplest scarf I can find. The problem is, not having been born Italian, I seem to always have trouble tying my scarf into a proper Italian knot. It never has that certain casualness that I'm after, even though I have researched online how it’s done. Oh well, I’m warm now, and I’ll have all winter to practice.

The Stresa market is held every Friday in Piazza Capucci. Open from early morning until 1 pm.

Ringling Bros Is Coming To Tampa & Orlando

Coming Wed. JAN. 15 - Mon. JAN. 19 Amway Arena in Orlando

Buy tickets on Ticketmaster.com, the #1 ticketing portal on the web

Car Rental One Way to New Jersey

Can I get a rental car in California and drive it to New Jersey?

I go to college in California but I live in New Jersey. I'm transferring to a college in NJ for the spring so I need to bring all my stuff from California to NJ. I don't have a car and I can't fly with all my stuff. Can I rent a car in California, drive it to NJ, and return it in NJ?

Some car rental companies allow one-way rentals all the time, and some only allow it at certain times of year, or if they happen to have a car from the east coast that they want taken back. Sometimes car rental companies have one way specials in the spring, when they are moving their fleets from ski destinations in the west, back to car rental locations in the east. Start checking for availability and pricing for your rental at least 5 or 6 weeks in advance. Check multiple companies to see which one will offer the best rate and look for any one-way specials advertised on their websites.

Make sure to check any mileage restrictions, and make sure that the vehicle you rent will be large enough to carry your belongings.

Vista Cay Resort

Harbor Square of Orlando holds some new delights in store for those who want to vacation in a planned development, spending their time close to some world class tourist areas and wonderful sights .
Breath taking Lake Cay and within walking distance of the second largest convention center in the United states, Orange County Convention Center.
If all of this sounds too good to be true, perhaps its time that you take a look for yourself and see what Vista Cay community has to offer you.

The location is central to some of the best things Orlando has to offer, such as Disney World, Sea World, the Florida mall (and who doesn't love to shop) as well as Universal Studios for the movie buff.

A residential community that is gated for your protection, Vista Cay offers some wonderful amenities for the visitor to the community such as free WI Fi, high speed internet access in every single unit, as well as a clubhouse that provides you with a fitness center, meeting rooms a pool and an internet library.
With all of these goodies to look forward to, who could blame you if you decided that traipsing off to see the sights wasn’t on your list of things to do.

Vista Cay also provides for the kids, with free baby items in every rental.
In fact, one of the Vista Cay properties is going to be perfect for your getaway.
Vista Cay Monterey will sleep about 10 people quite comfortably, with 3 bedrooms and an amazing 2100 Square feet, of space.
Luxury Vista Cay is four stories of condos that include a lovely lobby, elevators and very airy and roomy floor plans, as well as covered lanai’s when you just want to put your feet up and watch the people go by.

Hall of Presidents Under Renovation at Magic Kingdom

Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom has temporarily closed down the Hall of Presidents exhibit for an extensive refurbishment, which includes making room for the 44th president Barack Obama. President-elect Obama will be invited to record a message for the attraction’s visitors, just as current President George W. Bush did at the beginning of his presidency.

The Hall of Presidents opened on October 1. 1971 as part of Walt Disney World’s grand opening, and the attraction has always included animatronic versions of every president. The Lincoln figure has always had a recorded speech, and in the 1990s Disney began the tradition of inviting the current president to record a speech for his display, starting with President Bill Clinton.

The show will stay shuttered for more than eight months so Disney can update the hall's aging light, sound, mechanical, projection and show systems, and reopen on July 4, 2009 with digital-video projection systems replacing the 70 mm film projectors.

SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Fun Cards

Just in time for the holiday gift-giving season, SeaWorld and Busch Gardens Fun Cards are back again by popular demand, offering Florida residents the greatest value for adventure all year long. By giving the gift of a 2009 Fun Card, Florida residents can enjoy unlimited visits to SeaWorld Orlando or Busch Gardens Tampa Bay in 2009 without any blackout dates.
One of the many great benefits of purchasing the 2009 Fun Card early is to experience end-of-the-year holiday events at SeaWorld and Busch Gardens.
At SeaWorld, guests can jump aboard The Polar Express Experience (Nov. 14, 2008 through Jan. 4, 2009), when the park's Wild Arctic exhibit is transformed into the fabled Santa Town after an unforgettable train ride. In addition, at "Shamu Christmas … Miracles,” families can join Shamu for a magnificent holiday show, running nightly Nov. 12 through Dec. 30, 2008.
Starting Nov. 22, there's a festive chill in the air when Busch Gardens presents a limited-engagement ice show and decks the halls with Christmas from the Heart, featuring holiday gospel and spiritual songs performed by a live choir. • Bud & BBQ, a zesty line up of award-winning live country and classic rock live performances, paired with blazing barbecue and ice-cold Budweiser
• Viva La Musica, a fiesta combining authentic Hispanic foods, tantalizing Latin beats and lively performances by award-winning Latin artists.

• SeaWorld AfterDark and Busch Gardens Summer Nights, two sizzling summer events where the parks are open late and the night comes alive with lively music and special summer shows.

New to SeaWorld is A'Lure, The Call of the Ocean, an exciting tale of Sea Sirens whose hypnotic calls have lured fisherman into their underwater lairs for centuries.
At Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, guests can discover Jungala, the park's newest attraction, that featuring four-acres of exotic creatures and connects families with the jungles of the world through up-close animal interactions, multi-story family play areas, rides and live entertainment. Floorless SheiKra, Florida's only dive coaster, takes guests 200 feet up, and 90 degrees straight down. Fun Card Option Price:

SeaWorld Fun Card (Adult) $74.95*
SeaWorld Fun Card (Child) $64.95*
Busch Gardens Fun Card (Adult) $69.95*
Busch Gardens Fun Card (Child) $59.95*
SeaWorld/Busch Gardens Combo Fun Card (Adult) $144.90*
SeaWorld/Busch Gardens Combo Fun Card (Child) $124.90*
* SeaWorld Fun Card tax rate is based on 6.5% Orange County tax.
* Busch Gardens Fun Card tax rate is based on 7% Hillsborough County tax.

For more information, visit worldsofdiscovery.com

Car Rental Underage Fee

Anyone know how to get a car rental company to waive their under 25 age fee? ?



I can get a 10 day rental from budget for $190, but then it's $27/day fee because I am under 25, does that extra fee add some sort of extra insurance or something? Is there a way to get this waived? Whether it be through a company or something.... or even a promo code?

There is no promo code that will waive the underage fee. Many companies who create corporate accounts with car rental companies, build a lower minimum age for their employees right into their contract. You can check with whomever handles travel arrangements for your company, or your human resources department.



The only other program the waives the underage fee, would be if you are a federal government employee or active duty military (usually requires government travel orders)



The fee doesn't provide extra insurance, sort of. The car rental companies carry liability on their vehicles for public liability and property damage. As drivers under 25 have a higher accident rate statistically, the car rental companies charge the extra fee to offset the liability claims. You would still be asked if you wanted to purchase an optional cdw or ldw to cover loss or damage to the rental car itself.



Hope this helps!

Orlando Neighborhoods

College Park is one of the older neighborhoods in Orlando, with craftsman style houses and modest bungalows dating back to the 1920s, 1930s, and 1940s. Despite the name, College Park is not the home of any of the Orlando area's major universities or colleges (the University of Central Florida is on the east side of town, off of University Avenue; Full Sail is further west on University and Rollins College is in Winter Park) but in keeping with the neighborhood's name, visitors will find residential streets named after Ivy League schools such as Harvard, Yale, Dartmouth, Vassar and Smith, with Princeton Street being the major thoroughfare.

And for anyone who was an English major in college, it is worth noting that beat generation author Jack Kerouac lived in College Park right around the time that “On the Road” was published in 1957. The house has been restored to its Kerouac-era furnishings and is now a must-see destination for literary history buffs and aspiring writers.

For Orlando residents, College Park is best known for its eclectic mix of independently owned shops and restaurants clustered around the intersection of Princeton and Edgewater Drive. Longtime residents of Orlando have been patronizing some of these small businesses for more than a generation. Some local favorites include Gabriel's Submarine Sandwich Shop, College Park Cafe and American Pie Pizza Company, all of which are on Edgewater Drive. To visit College Park, take the Princeton exit off of I-4 and head west.

Lago Maggiore Express

This is a great day trip for spring, summer, or autumn that doesn’t require a car. The Lago Maggiore Express offers the opportunity to enjoy incredible Alpine scenery, charming mountain villages, beautiful churches, regional cuisine, a leisurely lake cruise, and two countries, all with relative ease and comfort. Does it sound impossible? It’s not. Here’s the basic itinerary:

Begin the day with a cappuccino at the Stresa train station and a 45-minute Trenitalia trip on the red line north to Domodossola.

In Domodossola switch to the Swiss SSIF green line. This smaller train winds its way through Valle Vigezzo and the rugged Centovalli, hundred valley, region, going over deep chasms on spectacular arched bridges, crossing rivers, traveling through meadows and chestnut woods. It makes stops in the picturesque towns of Druogno, Santa Maria Maggiore, Malesco, and Re, each of which has its own delights. The cathedral in Re is, in its simplicity, one of the loveliest I have seen in Italy. stresa stresa stresa stresa stresa stresa stresa stresa

Because there are several trains throughout the day you may disembark and embark in these towns at will. Your one ticket allows the full circular trip in any configuration you choose.

The train continues through the Ticino region of the Swiss Alps before arriving in Locarno, on the northeastern tip of Lago Maggiore. Take a pause for an aperitivo in this Swiss city before meeting the boat at the Locarno embarcadero for the lake portion of the trip on the Navigazione Lago Maggiore sightseeing ship. stresa stresa stresa stresa stresa stresa stresa stresa

On the boat, as on the train, you can choose to hop off and on as you like. Perhaps a quick stop to see the Brissago Islands, or the medieval town of Cannobio. Or, if you’re tired at this point, just relax and enjoy the view of castles, islands, and shoreline as the ship brings you back to your starting point in Stresa. lago maggiore express lago maggiore express

One ticket, countless choices to customize the trip, a little bit of everything for everyone, and no driving for anyone makes this one great day trip. l

The price for the complete, one-day, round-trip ticket is 32 euro for the 2012 season. 

Web site: http://www.lagomaggioreexpress.com/Inglese/index.htmlpress

Liftoff for Space Shuttle Endeavour

Space shuttle Endeavour began a 15 day mission Friday night with a spectacular nighttime launch. Endeavour lit up the Space Coast sky while thousands of onlookers observed what might be the final nighttime launch of the shuttle program. There are only eight shuttle missions scheduled before the program ends in 2010.

Endeavour is scheduled to return to Kennedy Space Center on November 29 as long as the weather conditions are favorable, so the astronauts will be celebrating Thanksgiving on board the International Space Station. Listen for the sonic boom upon the shuttle's return. Check Nasa for more details about the Endeavour mission.

Car Rental Rates

Was I swindled?

I was charged 90.00/day for a rental car. I got a rental car in late october from Dollar Rental Cars. They charged me 90.00 a day for a dodge caviler, not including the insurance. I had to manually roll down each window and i had to lock and unlock every door that i had to use. They charged me 45.00 to completely fill up a tank that was already 3 quarters full. I had the car for 3 days, the complete charge after i returned the car was 632.56. The insurance was 45.00/day. The only reason i went with them was because out of 7-10 rental car companies there they were the only ones with cars.

I don't think you could say that you were swindled. Assuming you agreed to the optional insurance, and agreed to the daily rate at the time of pick up, you paid the price for not making a reservation in advance. Due to the law of supply and demand, being the only company left with cars, enabled them to raise the price way beyond reason, but in the end, you rented it. As to the gas, Dollar's policies state that the vehicle must be returned with a full tank of gas or a refuelling fee applies. They charge a higher rate for the gas than you would have been charged at a local gas station and they also charge you an extra fee because they had to refuel it themselves. You should see information on the gas policy right on your rental agreement.

Cheap Flights to Orlando Major Carriers Cutting Fares for Holidays

Travelers seeking cheap flights to Orlando in the hopes of spending the holidays at “the happiest place on Earth” might find air fares that are more affordable than they expected. The Associated Press has recently reported that the major U.S. airlines are cutting fares for the busy Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons. Due to the sluggish economy, the airlines are cutting prices now instead of waiting until the last couple of weeks before the peak holiday travel period begins.
Although many of the price reductions are at airports that might be considered “alternate airports,” there are cheaper fares available on routes where the big airlines compete with low-cost carriers such as JetBlue, AirTran, and Southwest, which has a large presence at Orlando International Airport. Visitors looking for cheap flights to Orlando during the holiday season should keep in mind that some of the sale fares have blackout dates on November 30 and December 1 -- the Sunday and Monday after Thanksgiving -- and December 20.

International White Truffle Fair of Alba

If you’re in Piemonte in the autumn, beato te! Lucky you! You’re here during truffle season, which after the vendemmia, the grape harvest, may be the most important annual event of the year. The white truffles, tartufo bianco, that are found in Piemonte, and especially in the countryside around the city of Alba, are the most expensive and highly sought after in the world, with a single kilogram selling for between €2000 and €4000 (that’s up to $2,700 per pound). Each autumn the harvest is celebrated at the International White Truffle Fair of Alba. Weekends throughout October and November there are festivities such as tastings, hunts, concerts, lectures, classes, and more, with the heart of it all being the exhibition hall in Alba. This weekend, to mark the close of the season, there will be a truffle auction, and a Truffle of the Year will be chosen.

In honor of the occasion, and to honor this mysterious mushroom relative, here are a few truffle facts you may not yet know:

Although historically hogs have been used to sniff out truffles, recently dogs are becoming more popular as truffle hunters. Dogs can be trained to simply find the truffles and not eat them, while the hogs will immediately devour any truffle they can.

Truffles have a strange, symbiotic relationship with the oak, hazel, poplar, and beech trees around Alba. Attempts to cultivate truffles around the world have met with various degrees of success, which accounts for their continued rarity and the exorbitant prices they command.

White Alba truffles are best eaten raw; unlike the French black truffle they do not cook well. The aroma of the white is strong and pungent, and able to fill a room instantly.

Alba is an easy day-trip destination from Stresa. And if you are fortunate enough to go to see the festival, do keep a couple of things in mind. It will be crowded. So much so that getting into restaurants may be difficult. It may be best to bring a picnic lunch along, or to purchase food at one of the market stalls. But by all means buy your piece of truffle, bring it home with you, and then carefully shave your treasure over a bowl of buttered pasta or salad. stresa stresa stresa stresa stresa stresa stresa stresa stresa stresa stresa stresa stresa stresa stresa stresa

Alba is approximately one and one half hours from Stresa by car. The White Truffle Fair runs for six weeks from October through the first weekends in November.

Web site: www.fieradeltartufo.org/en/

Verbania, a "Green" City

Here's an interesting news item I just read... The Legambiente, the Environmental Society, has completed their annual study of the capital cities of the Italian provinces. Of the 103 cities examined, Verbania, which is 15 minutes to the east of Stresa along the lake, was found to be the fourth most "green" city in Italy. Several aspects were studied; the ecosystem of the area, and well as the facilities in place that allow its citizens to live a more sustainable, smaller carbon-footprint, life. Even better news is that Verbania moved up from its 16th place ranking of last year. The city produced less trash, used less water, recycled more, and testing showed cleaner, better air quality. People not only used the public transportation systems more, but also decreased their use of cars and increased their use of bicycles.

Stresa, not being a capital city, was not ranked in this rating. But I feel certain those same findings would apply here as well. And it's nice to see in official words what I've known all along... that this is a special place, of exceptional natural beauty, filled with people who appreciate it and are working to keep it so.
stresa stresa stresa stresa stresa stresa stresa stresa stresa stresa stresa stresa

Fairies Meet and Greet at Magic Kingdom

Friday 11/14: My Book Signing in Celebration

Very last-second notice here:

I'll be at the Reading Trout bookstore in Celebration tomorrow (Friday, Nov 14) at 7pm for a slideshow, brief talk, and selling and signing books.

Please feel free to come on out and say hello!

671 front street #110
celebration, fl 34747
321-939-BOOK

Sea World Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando introduces a new, theatrical performance, A'Lure, The Call of the Ocean, an aquatic tapestry combining powerful athleticism, high-energy acrobats, and mesmerizing electronic visuals.

A'Lure, The Call of the Ocean unfolds on a massive stage before an oversized projection screen – creating a vibrant, underwater world beyond imagination, displaying animated images of interactive schools of fish, graceful manta rays, and daunting 25-foot sea serpents. Featuring a dozen acrobats from China, the mariner's story comes to life with gravity-defying aerial tumblers, scaling pole climbers, lyrical dancers, unicycle champions and diablo yo-yo performers. The Worlds of Discovery parks include SeaWorld parks in Orlando, San Diego and San Antonio; Busch Gardens and Adventure Island in Tampa Bay and Busch Gardens and Water Country USA in Williamsburg, Va.; Discovery Cove and Aquatica in Orlando; and Sesame Place near Philadelphia. To learn more about the parks, visit 4adventure.com or call toll-free (800)4ADVENTURE.

Vacation Rentals

Clarion Hotels

Mickey's VeryMerry Christmas Parade

Things to do in Orlando this Fall

Seralago Hotel and Suites Main Gate East

Orlando Zip Codes

Barack Obama Wins

Orlando Newspapers

Orlando Clarion Waterpark Hotel

Sea World Orlando, You “Otter” Vote

Orlando Christmas Parade – The Holiday Star Attrac...

Car Rental Deposits

Car rental Las Vegas cash deposit?
is it possible to rent a car in vegas with CASH and not card.

I don't really want them to charge my card for 'hold' or 'security purposes' what if I don't receive the $300 deposit back?!!?! and how long for it to reach my bank account?

The car rental locations will put a hold on a credit card, freezing those funds until you return the vehicle. While some companies offer the option of applying for a cash id card, it usually takes about 6 weeks to process and involves credit checks and a larger deposit.

When you return the vehicle and want to pay in cash, You will see the hold back on your credit card within 48 hours. Most locations that take debit cards for the hold state that it can take up to two weeks for the hold to be credited back to your account.. it often depends on the bank.

Clarion Hotels

Are you looking for a place to make your Orlando getaway something special?Trying to find something that helps to make it more affordable and also more interesting and fun?
Clarion Hotels may just be the place you're looking for.With limited time specials and packages, Clarion Hotel Universal can make your stay far more enjoyable and a lot more easy on the pocket book than other hotel packages.
For instance, the Bed and Breakfast package, offering you a full meal for two at no cost, already discounts your costs about twenty dollars, and offers you some amazing taste tempting items, such as corned beef hash, Belgian waffles, breakfast pastries, sausage, bacon, and the all important coffee or tea, to start your day off right.
Clarion Hotels also offers a military discount, just their way of saying thank you to those who serve their country. If you have an active duty military card (dependent cards or spousal cards are not acceptable, we're sorry to say) then you can take an additional twenty per cent off of the normally low rates of the rooms at Clarion Universal.
Those are just a few of the incredible deals available to you at Clarion Hotels, that will help you to see the Orlando area in style and still not go broke in the process.
Close enough to the things you want to see that you don't have to seek them out, Clarion Universal is a smart way to save money and not have to sacrifice style or amenities.

Discount Car Rental Tips

How do I find discounts on car rentals on line?

Deal sites like Travelocity and Orbitz are great ways to compare car rental companies quickly. What I would do is go to one of those sites and find the cheapest car rental company for the dates and times you're looking for. Then go to that rental car company's website directly to see if they have any specials or e-coupons for an even better rate. You can also try using a car rental discount code.

There are hundreds of membership programs and professional associations that offer car rental discount codes to their members. You can find a list of car rental discount codes for 8 major car rental companies, at http://www.best-car-rental-tips.com/discount-codes.html

Mickey's VeryMerry Christmas Parade

Walt Disney World Resort blings in the holidays Nov. 10 with sparkling, jewel-like crystals adorning the iconic Cinderella Castle in Magic Kingdom – a glistening light-show spectacular signaling the beginning of Disney seasonal merriment. By late November, festivities will blanket the Vacation Kingdom as Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Downtown Disney take the wrappings off their own Santa sleighfuls of yuletide gaiety.
But guests can get in the spirit beginning Nov. 10 by beholding the 200,000 twinkling lights of Disney’s newest holiday tradition – Castle Dreamlights – in Magic Kingdom. Donning their holiday finest, Cinderella and friends take to the Cinderella Castle stage daily for a dream-come-true, light-the-night moment.
Nov. 10 also marks the first of 18 select evenings when Magic Kingdom hosts the long-running Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. The “Once Upon a Christmastime Parade” celebrates the festive moods of the season with dancing snowflakes, marching toy soldiers, horse-drawn sleighs, enchanting floats and spirited characters all proceeding through the streets of the theme park in a merry and melodic cavalcade.
During “Holiday Wishes-Celebrate the Spirit of the Season,” the radiant castle beams brightly as the evening is magically capped with festive fireworks orchestrated to classic holiday tunes.
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party dates are: Nov. 10, 11, 14, 16, 20, 21, 30; Dec. 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19, from 7 p.m.-midnight. Advance tickets and information are available now at Disney World

Things to do in Orlando this Fall

With the weather cooling down to comfortable temperatures, there are plenty of things to do in Orlando through the end of the year. All of the major attractions—Walt Disney World, Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure, and SeaWorld—begin preparations for the busy holiday season as soon as the last pumpkin is removed from all of the Halloween displays.

Keep in mind that park hours may be shorter during off-season. Disney's Animal Kingdom, for instance, closes down at 5:00 or 6:00 p.m. this time of year, because many of the animals there call it a day when the sun goes down during the shorter days of late fall and early winter. Even in the cooler weather, at least one of Disney's water parks will be open. When Blizzard Beach is shut down for annual maintenance, Typhoon Lagoon stays open, and vice versa, but call ahead if the weather is really cold; some of the local water parks will close if the temperatures and park attendance are too low.

Just when the temperatures are starting to get miserably cold up North, the list of things to do in Orlando expands to include bike rallies, fall festivals, and art fairs that would not be practical during the steamy summer months. With the rainy season behind us, this is the time of year when the Sunshine State lives up to its name.

Vino e Formaggio at the Grand Hotel des Iles Borromees

Fabulous wine, fabulous cheese, fabulous armagnac, all at a wine and cheese tasting at the fabulous, five-star, Grand Hotel des Iles Borromees in Stresa. Organized by AIS, which is the Association of Italian Sommeliers, and sponsored by SOPEXA, marketers for the French wine and food industry, this event was attended mostly by restaurateurs, with the motive of educating themselves as to proper pairings of French wines and cheeses. I wasn’t there for professional reasons; I will freely admit I was only there for the wine. And the cheese. And the scrumptious lunch buffet served during the pause in this all-day event. And although this course was taught in Italian, that wasn’t the difficult part for me. The difficult part was staying awake after the lunch buffet in order to taste the six different armagnacs. That was hard.

The wine selections were a Pinot Gris Les Argiles Blanches, from Alsace, a Marsannay 2004 Domaine Mec Camuzet di Vosne Romanee, from Bourgogne, and a Gewurtztraminer Vendanges Tardives 2005, from Alsace. And the cheeses, just to make you drool, were Chevre Crottin de Chavignol, Brie de Meaux, Camembert, Reblochon, Comte’, Munster, Fourme d’Ambert, and Roquefort.

AIS sponsors many wine events in the area. They offer an opportunity to experience fine wines that many of us wouldn’t have the chance to taste otherwise. However, AIS events are held in Italian. For those who like to attend a wine tasting in English, or who would like to host a private wine tasting, there are many opportunities to do so. I’ll write about some in separate posts. Clicking on wine on the sidebar will show you all of the relevant posts.

Wouldn't you love for this to be the suitcase you needed for work everyday?

For a taste of other AIS events throughout Italy visit their main Web site. The site is only available in Italian.
http://www.sommelier.it/default.asp
For those interested, SOPEXA's Web site: http://www.sopexa.com/english/partenaire/index.html This one's in English.

Additional Drivers on a Rental Car

Should rental car drivers be able to object to illegal searches of a car if they aren't the renter of the car?

Say I'm an "unauthorized driver" of a rental car and a police officer searches it without any reason to do so. Can I object to the search, that is- do I have a "legitimate expectation of privacy" in the car?

If you are an unauthorized driver, and your name is not on the rental contract, the police are able to assume that the vehicle is stolen and they will normally impound the vehicle. They can certainly search it. When a person signs a car rental agreement, they are required to inform the car rental company of all additional drivers who are driving the car.

Seralago Hotel and Suites Main Gate East

The Seralago Hotel and Suites Main Gate East is located in Kissimmee, Fla., and stands adjacent to Kissimmee's Old Town. The hotel is positioned three miles from Disney's Main Gate, less than five miles from MGM Studios and seven miles from Downtown Disney and Epcot.
Hotel Features. The hotel's dining options include the People's Choice Food Court and the Vineyard Cafe, where a kids' corner features a big-screen television showing cartoons. The Sports Court Street Bar serves appetizers and cocktails, while Tropical Treasures serves poolside drinks from February to October. Complimentary wireless Internet access is available in the lobby, food court and restaurant. The hotel features a fitness room with cardiovascular equipment. The hotel includes two lighted tennis courts, and volleyball and basketball courts. Two heated pools, two spa tubs, and a children's pool and playground secured with gated fences are on site. A dungeon-themed game room keeps younger guests occupied. Family-friendly movies are shown nightly in the hotel's theater. Seralogo Hotel and Suites Main Gate East Hotel Reservations

Orlando Zip Codes

While there are over 30 Orlando Zip codes, ranging from 32801 to 32839, there are several more that have Orlando addresses but are really considered unincorporated Orange County. Visitors who are unsure of whether or not they are officially in the City of Orlando should look for street signs featuring the blue logo for Orlando—the Lake Eola fountain. Streets in unincorporated Orange County will have an orange on the sign.

In addition to the Orlando Zip codes, there are a few municipalities that are also worth mentioning. Winter Park, (Zip code 32789) best known for Rollins College and the town’s upscale boutiques and outdoor bistros on Park Avenue, is also in Orange County. Nearby Altamonte Springs (Zip code 32701) is to the north of Orlando in neighboring Seminole County.

Most important to visitors, however, would be the following Orlando Zip codes: 32819, which covers many of the hotels on International Drive near Universal Studios; and 32830, which represents the municipality of Lake Buena Vista, the real address of the Walt Disney World resort.

Museo dell’Ombrello e del Parasole

They say that into every life a little rain must fall, and when it does here, what better way to spend that day than by visiting the Museo dell'Ombrello e del Parasole, a quirky museum dedicated entirely to those devices we use to protect ourselves from the rain. This region was the home to over 150 umbrella-making families in the 1800s, and today, housed in a building shaped like three open umbrellas, you can learn why, and view hundreds of unique umbrellas, parasols, and other items. Gignese, where the museum is located, is a picturesque little town, a bit higher up in the hills; pairing this museum visit with a lunch at an agriturismo would be a really nice way to pass the day when the weather doesn’t cooperate with your outdoor activities.

Open from 1 April to 31 October, 10.00 – 12.00 and 15.00 to 18.00. Closed Mondays, unless the Monday is a national holiday, in which case the museum is open.

The museum is an easy 20 minute drive from Stresa by car or reachable on public buses.

Web site: http://www.gignese.it/museo/

Foxtown Factory Stores Expo

Fashionistas, this is for you. The American, off-price, megamall concept has come to Europe! If an important part of your Italian vacation is to bring back some of the latest fashions, or if you're looking for a good rainy day activity, this mall must be on your must-do list. With 160 shops, seven restaurants, and its own casino, Foxtown combines the best of American ideas — discounts! — with the best European style. You won’t see these shops in your local mall back home. Here, you’ll find clothing, shoes, and jewelry from all of those fabulous and exclusive Italian and European designers, sold at discounts of 30% to 70%. You’ll travel home wearing something that everyone will drool over. But don’t worry, you can find gifts for them here too; truly one-stop shopping. And if you’re feeling lucky, go drop a euro or two into the slot machines at the casino while you’re here. I bet you can’t do that in your mall back home.

Foxtown is open everyday from 11.00 – 19.00. Closed on 1 January. Easter, 1 August, Christmas, and Saint Stephen’s.

Foxtown is one hour from Stresa by car, in Mendrisio, Switzerland

Web site: http://www.foxtown.ch/index.php?lingua=en&centro=mendrisio

Exotic Car Rentals

Where can I find a exotic rental car that is a japanese race/sports car, like a Nissan Skyline or Subaru WRX? I need to find a place where I can rent a japanese exotic car in Orange County, California preferably. Any cars and price range will do.

In the U.S. you can look at:

www.exoticcarrentaldirectory.com

Make sure to check all the terms and conditions of this type of car rental and make sure that you meet the minimum age, license and credit card requirements for the car rental company that you choose to rent from.

As with any car rental, do your homework and book well in advance to try and take advantage of better prices and vehicle availability, especially if it's a special occasion like a wedding or anniversary.

Barack Obama Wins

Orlando Newspapers

Although there are a number of smaller publications in and around Orlando, the publication that dominates the Orlando newspaper scene is the Orlando Sentinel. Founded in 1876—yes, there was a city of Orlando well before Disney came to town—the Orlando Sentinel is now owned by the Chicago-based Tribune Company.

Although the Orlando Sentinel is the largest Orlando newspaper, smaller publications keep residents abreast of local events as well. The East Orlando Sun and West Orange Times cover stories on the east and west sides of town, respectively, and the Winter Park Observer reports on the issues pertinent to nearby Winter Park, FL, which borders Orlando to the north just east of Interstate 4.

Orlando's newspapers cover the issues that are most pertinent to Central Florida: local and national politics, tourism and the hospitality industry, the growth of Orlando's downtown, and the space program on the nearby Space Coast.

Car Rental Insurance

Am I required to get rental car insurance if I don't have my own auto insurance?
I am planning to sell my car and cancel my auto insurance. If I want to rent a car, am I required to buy their rental car insurance, since I wouldn't have any other auto insurance otherwise?

If the car rental company covers their vehicles for public liability,as most do, you would be covered for basic public liability and property damage up to the minimum limits required by law for whatever state the rental originates from.

What you would want to look into as well, is whether you want to purchase a loss or collision damage waiver from the rental car company to cover any loss or damage to the rental vehicle.

You may be covered somewhat for this by your credit card; you should check their policy.

Basically, the car rental companies offer an "optional" damage waiver, but if something happens to the vehicle, you are fully financially responsible for any loss, damage or loss of use of the rental car. It is expensive. You may want to purchase insurance from the company or you may not, but you should weigh all your options.

Orlando Clarion Waterpark Hotel

The Clarion Resort and Waterpark is within 15 miles of SeaWorld, Walt Disney Resort, MGM Studios and Animal Kingdom. This family-friendly hotel offers complimentary scheduled transportation to Walt Disney World Resort.

Hotel amenities include a 50,000 square foot waterpark, meeting space, poolbar and 24-hour business center. The hotel features Sara Star's Family Restaurant, a full pool bar, sports lounge and in-room pizza delivery. For guests ready for a break from the Florida sun, the fitness center, gift shop, or gameroom with arcade and billiards are fun places to cool off. Pools at the hotel and waterpark are heated.
Guestrooms are pet-friendly and feature 25-inch televisions with cable, coffeemakers, complimentary wireless Internet, microwave ovens and refrigerators, voicemail and complimentary daily newspapers. This hotel is smoke-free. Orlando Clarion Water Park Hotel Reservations

Enjoy quick access to Orlando, Florida; Kissimmee, Florida; area attractions and Orlando International airport.

Clarion Resort & Waterpark is located in Kissimmee, Florida, five minutes from downtown Kissimmee and 15 minutes from Orlando, Florida on US Highway 192 East, adjacent to the Florida Turnpike. We offer complimentary scheduled transportation to the hub of Walt Disney World® Theme Parks. Scheduled transportation hours vary based on Walt Disney World® Theme Parks operating hours.

Rain, rain...

Okay, now the rain starts to become a bit much. It’s been almost a week of some sort of precipitation every day, and the forecast isn’t looking very promising either. But rather than mope around and wait for the sun to return, the weather has made me think it’s time to add a new section to this blog, Rainy Day Activites. Allora, prendi l'ombrello, bring the umbella, we’re going out!

What are some good things to do if it rains while you’re here? There are always museums of course but I have a better idea. Do the same activities you would do at home, but remember, it isn’t the same old activity when you’re doing it in another country. It’s an opportunity to observe the cultural differences and to take part a little bit in the day-to-day life here. So how about a movie? If your knowledge of Italian is intermediate or better this is great fun. Choose an action film, less dialogue and more visual cues. Or how about shopping? While just another day at the mall at home sounds pretty boring, don’t discount the fun of shopping in an Italian mall and comparing the stores and fashions. Try on some outfits; see how ‘Italian’ you can look. And if you have access to a kitchen, then stop at a supermarket, buy some local ingredients and a bottle of wine, look up a recipe, and create your own Italian banquet.

I’ll expand on some Rainy Day Activities in future posts; click on the Rainy Day Activities link on the sidebar to see them all. But the point is, a little rain shouldn’t be any deterrent at all to having fun. And chissa, who knows, perhaps a great adventure is waiting you in one of these everyday places.

Can you Rent a Car for Someone Else?

Can I purchase a rental car for a minor?
My niece wants a rental car for the weekend. Is it okay if I purchase a car and let her drive it , even though see is not on my insurance?

When you rent a car you're required to have all additional drivers sign on to the contract. For most companies all additional drivers have to be at least 25 and have a credit card in their own name. If you rented the car and let her drive it without permission from the rental company, you would be violating the terms and conditions of your rental contract and if something happened to the rental vehicle, even your own insurance would not cover it, you, or her, because you would have let an unauthorized, unqualified driver drive your rental car. Don't take any chances on this one!

Sea World Orlando, You “Otter” Vote

At SeaWorld Orlando, Opie, an Asian small-clawed otter, takes voting seriously. Casting a ballot for his favorite meal, he encourages everyone to go out and vote this election day. Photo by SeaWorld Orlando. For more information, call 407-363-2280.

Car Rental Credit Card Holds

If credit is the cause of the financial problems why do car rental companies insist on paying by credit card ?
How did customers pay before plastic credit was invented. Whats wrong with hard cash?

A credit card is required for deposit to ensure that the car rental company is paid for the rental. Basically, if they can freeze available credit on your credit card then they are guaranteeing themselves payment for the rental.

You can certainly pay cash when you return the vehicle, any any authorized funds that were held on your credit card will be released.

Some companies allow a cash rental, but it usually involves a large deposit and often a credit check.

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Could someone please explain car rental?
I know you pay for the ammount of days you want to use the car, but could someone tell me as the diposit do they just take the number off your credit card or do they charge an ammount and refund when car is returned?

At least, the full amount of the rental is charged on your credit card and held as a deposit until you return it. The car rental company may hold more if they have a minimum hold amount policy. If you wish to pay cash when you return, then the deposit will be credited back to your credit card.

Orlando Christmas Parade – The Holiday Star Attraction

The Orlando Christmas Parade will have a totally new look this year as a spectacular night parade and festival. In addition to the lights on the twinkling floats, Pirates Dinner Adventure will open the parade with another spellbinding performance. You never know whom you will meet curbside while waiting for the illuminated night parade to begin. It could be a sports star, soap star or one of Orlando’s favorite theme park characters. The two-hour procession will be themed LIGHT UP THE HOLIDAYS. Joining our Co-Host team on the Stanley Steemer Red Carpet will be sound effect master extraordinaire, Michael Winslow from the movie, “Police Academy.” He will narrate a holiday cooking demonstration with Emeril’s Orlando Chef before Captain “Candy” Cane makes her parade debut in a rare Florida snow flurry. The up-beat sounds of our 8 High School Marching Bands will keep our crowds dancing in the streets. Orlando Christmas Parade – 2007 Golden Brick Award Winner Night Parade: Sunday Evening - DECEMBER 14th, 2008 – 2 hour production – 6pm to 8pm
Since 1934, generations of families have been spoiled with “free” non-stop holiday entertainment during this show-stopping parade. The 2008 NIGHT production will circle Lake Eola Park starting at Magnolia and Livingston Street and sashay down Rosalind Avenue to the Stanley Steemer Red Carpet TV taping area set-up in front of Lake Eola Amphitheater. Once on Central Blvd. the parade passes the new Publix Supermarket before it reaches Summerlin Avenue in Thornton Park where the parade ends at Howard Middle School. Staging will take place on Magnolia Avenue between SR 50 and Livingston Street.
Free parade curbside viewing is available along most the parade route. TV cameras will capture celebrity interviews, tumblers, marching bands and singing performances on the Stanley Steemer Red Carpet on Rosalind Avenue. Reserved seating is $10.00 per ticket or 6 for $50.00.
EXPRESSWAY to the STARS Talent Search Competition has been created for young adults between 16 and 25 years old looking to further their education with their performing abilities. In addition to appearing in the Orlando Christmas Parade telecast, top solo and top group performers will be rewarded with scholarships totaling over $20,000.00. Children between 13 and 15 years old may compete for Rising Star honors and cash. Competition begins Dec. 12 & 13 at the Cheyenne Saloon and Opera House ~ 8am to 4pm daily. Top 10 acts will advance to Finals held at Lake Eola Park on December 14th where scholarship winners will be announced before the 6PM parade. Winning performers will be featured in the parade telecast of Santa Salutes the Stars. Visit http://www.expresswaystars.com/ for rules and fee information.
Parade Officials will host a one-day festival on December 14th called, Holiday in the Park to be held @ Lake Eola Park featuring vendors, retailers and entertainment. Finalists in the EXPRESSWAY To The STARS competition will be featured on the amphitheatre stage starting @ 1:30pm. A portion of Amphitheater seating will be reserved exclusively for Competition VIP Pass Holders. A special “KIDSVILLE AREA” will be featured in the park to include games, inflatable houses PLUS appearances by Captain Candy Cane, Mrs. Santa and Santa Claus.
Hotels near downtown Orlando