A Flashback 4th of July in Celebration Florida

The Disney designed town of Celebration, FL traditionally hosts a themed Fourth of July party in the Celebration Town Center, and this year is no exception. On Sunday, July 4 from 5:30 – 11:00 p.m., Celebration will bring back the Happy Days of the 1950s. The All-American Sock Hop will include live musical entertainment, costume contests, and a 50’s themed fireworks show will begin at 9:30 p.m.

Beginning at 6:00 p.m., Celebration Town Center’s “A Flashback 4th of July” will feature concerts by some of the world’s most famous tribute artists including tributes to Ritchie Valens, Roy Orbison, and the legends of Motown. There will also be a 50’s costume /celebrity look-alike contest at 7:00 p.m. For those who might be a little too young to remember the Nifty 50s, Celebration Town Center’s KidZone will feature an assortment of inflatable games for kids and teens that will include a jousting area, a rock climbing wall, face painting and more.

Additional music will be offered by The Dixieland Jazz Band. This unique group, made up of former members of the “Rosie O’Grady’s Good Time Band” offers patriotic music for the whole family. Parking and admission are free, and a complimentary park and ride shuttle will be available. For more information, visit the event website.

Turtles Moved to SeaWorld Orlando to Make Room for Oiled Animals

On Friday, June 25, SeaWorld Orlando received nine endangered Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles that had been impacted by the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

The turtles had been receiving care at the Institute for Marine Mammal Studies (IMMS) in Gulfport, Miss. for injuries related to fishing lines and hooks. The animals came to SeaWorld Orlando so the IMMS can make room for other animals in need of treatment due to the oil spill. The turtles at SeaWorld are in stable condition and the goal is to return them back into the wild.

SeaWorld is one of the few organizations with the expertise to tend to the special needs of Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles. They are solitary animals and do not interact with each other and other turtle species. This made their trek to SeaWorld imperative as park aquarists have set up a triage area to accommodate the new patients.

The flight to Orlando was made possible by the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission.

SeaWorld is a global leader in the rescue and rehabilitation of sea turtles. The park’s Animal Rescue & Rehabilitation Team in on call 365 days a year, 24 hours a day.

Washington Redskins Pro Bowl Cornerback DeAngelo Hall at SeaWorld Orlando

While spending the day at SeaWorld Orlando with family and friends, Washington Redskins Pro Bowl Cornerback DeAngelo Hall met his biggest fan -- Clyde, a California sea lion. Hall got up-close to amazing animals, and enjoyed thrilling rides and world-class shows. To discover more, visit SeaWorld Orlando

Book: Lago Maggiore -- An Exciting Journey

I've started to collect books about Stresa, buying one or two each time I'm there. My most recent one is called Lago Maggiore -- An Exciting Journey, which was published in 2007 by Nous Publishers. There are many reasons why this book is one of my favorites. Despite its small size (6 3/8 inches sq.) this book has more photographs than most. And because of the vibrancy and clever montaging of many of the photos, the result is a visually consistent and really captivating book. I don't think the photos lose anything due to being smaller in size, in fact I think we benefit from the collections, grouped together by subject. The book's 204 pages are divided into two sections. The first 144 pages are devoted to the photos, with each page having a sharp black background and minimal text. The paper is high-quality, thick and glossy. The photo section is further divided geographically into different regions of the lake. Stresa and its surroundings are given, rightly so, a large portion of these pages. The remainder of the book is dedicated to writings... literary references to Stresa and Lago Maggiore from many famous and historical figures. Text throughout the book is provided in four languages: English, Italian, French, and German, and for this and its 11 Euro price, it makes a nice gift for many international friends, as well as for yourself.

Here are a few photos from Lago Maggiore -- An Exciting Journey. My copies of these pages don't do the actual pages justice at all, but I hope it gives you an idea and entices you to take a better look at the originals.

Nous is a small publishing house, based in Stezzano, Italy, which specializes in books highlighting various locales in northern Italy, with a catalog of 12 books at present covering lakes, alps, and cities.The books are a collaboration between Alex Perathoner, who handles the photography and design, and Giorgio Carradori who is responsible for the text. I bought my copy at Leone Booksellers, on the corner of Piazza Cadorna and via P. Tomaso in Stresa.

Here's another photo book about Stresa:

Stresa -- d'Incanto

Fireworks at the Fountain at Lake Eola

The water is flowing once again through the Lake Eola Fountain just in time for the annual Fireworks at the Fountain on Sunday, July 4, 2010 from 4:00 – 10:00 p.m. at Lake Eola Park in Downtown Orlando. Visitors can bring their lawn chairs and blankets to save a spot around the lake to enjoy the fireworks display after sundown.

In the hours leading up to the fireworks display, there will be live entertainment, vendor booths, food sales, and an area just for kids with inflatables. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida will be conducting free health screenings and back massages at the health mobile display unit, and Cartoon Network and Bright House Networks will be presenting the Ben 10: Ultimate Alien Invasion. Children will be able to meet and take photos with the Ben 10 characters and have the opportunity to win prizes and giveaways.

The iconic Lake Eola Fountain was disabled by a lightning strike in August 2009, and repairs are currently underway. Water began flowing through the fountain this spring, and within the year the Lake Eola Fountain is expected to have a new lighting system installed. For more details about the July 4 event and directions, visit the City of Orlando website.

Cyprus Offers Much More Than Just Resorts

Cyprus is an island in the Mediterranean Sea, with a total population of 800,000. Throughout the history, every empire wanted to rule this well-placed island. It was always an important commercial centre between Europe, Africa and Eurasia. Larnaca International Airport is an international airport located 4 km south-west of Larnaca. This is the main international airfield of Cyprus. Ususally vistiors to Cyprus pre book car hire at Larnaca airport before arrival online.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=snyQTA8BGzE&feature=related]
The majority of the population is Greek, but there is a considerable Turkish minority. The capital of Cyprus is Nicosia. In the 1960s, the capital was divided between the island's Greek and Turkish communities in the south and north. An attempted coup to unite the island with Greece in 1974 led to a Turkish invasion, leaving the capital divided since then, with Turkish Cypriots claiming the north as the capital of their own state, Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, recognised only by Turkey.

Nicosia is situated in the middle of the island. The old city is worth seeing, the Venetian wall from the 16th century, the Leventis Museum, which presents the history of the city, and the Cultural Museum. Consider visiting the Byzantian Museum in the Episcopal Palace, and the wonderful Famagusta Gate. In the northern part of the city you can find the Ataturk square, the Levo Girne Gate and the Turkish Museum. One of the most popular landmarks is the Buyuk Hamam, which is a 12th century Turkish bath.

The earliest known human activity on the island dates back to around the 10th millennium BC. Archaeological artefacts from this period include the Neolithic village of Choirokoitia, which has been listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, along with the Tombs of the Kings. Cyprus is home to some of the oldest water wells in the world, and is the site of the earliest known example of feline domestication. I'd consider a car hire service to explore these ancient sites.

In Cyprus, the Carnival is celebrated for 10 days just before the beginning of Lent. The Carnival had been celebrated on the island by dressing up, holding masked balls and visiting friend's houses in fancy costumes. The festival is celebrated in the city of Limassol, which holds the largest annual carnival on the island. The carnival season changes according to the Greek Orthodox calendar on the island.

Limassol is the second largest town in Cyprus, it has an old city and an old harbour. The town is especially romantic at night, with plenty of bars open. The great wine festival is held annually here, which is one of the most popular event for the visitors. For those who love independance and freedom on vacation it is most convenient way to discover all the beauties of the city a car hire in Limassol. The most beloved holiday resort is Kyrenia, which is located at the northern part of the Republic. The greatest attraction of the town is the Mediterranean beach, the intimate streets, the lovely cafes, restaurants, bars. A Roman castle, a Byzantine chapel and a shipwreck museum is located in the town.
However, most of the tourist come to enjoy the sunlight, the breathtaking beach, the blue sea, the overwhelming Mediterranean feeling, the healthy Mediterranean food. Visitors can choose between skiing one the slopes of the Troodos mountain, playing golf by the sea, fitness and wellness activities. With car hire on Cyprus moving around becomes easy and comfortable.



Name Your Own Price at the Wingate by Wyndham Orlando Airport

In todays tough economy, hotels are experiencing that today’s travelers, whether it business or leisure, are becoming more and more savvy with technology and how to find a great hotel deal. In today’s world, we hear a lot of talk about Opaque Pricing and Opaque Travel Websites, but what is it really? It is in short a non-transparent value offer.

A non-transparent value offer, or pricing opacity, basically means that you can’t see the brand of the product type you are buying. It allows hotels to offer deep discounts, varying with great range from their public prices, without affecting their price positioning and rate integrity. Wikipedia defines Opaque Inventory as follows: a term used to describe the market of selling unsold travel inventory at a discounted price.

It is called ‘opaque’ because the suppliers, in this case the hotel, remains hidden until after the reservation is completed. It allows hotels to reach more price conscious consumers apart from their direct target markets. This type of hotel guest is less concerned with the specifics of the hotels facilities and services. Instead he is driven mainly by price. The best known Opaque Travel Websites are Priceline and Hotwire.

Priceline.com currently offers a “Name Your Own Price” strategy, which allows for consumers to tell them the price they are willing to pay for a hotel room. If they choose the Name Your Own Price option, first they will need to choose the area they would like to stay in. Next, the consumer selects the Hotel Star Level they are interested in. Lastly, simply select the price you are willing to pay. Once this information has been entered, in most cases the consumer will have an answer in 60 seconds or less and once the price is accepted, they will know which hotel they will be staying at for their trip.

Just as consumers have become savvier with this type of booking method to save money, the Wingate by Wyndham Orlando Airport has also picked up on this strategy and took the initiative to offer a similar strategy. The Wingate by Wyndham Orlando Airport has introduced a Name Your Own Price strategy at the property level.

Simply visit Wingate Orlando Airport and enter general information such as Name, Address, Phone and Email. Then enter the requested check-in and check-out dates and supply the hotel with the price you are willing to pay. The hotel will reply back within 24 hours of receiving the request with acceptance or a counter-offer.

According to Spencer Tarplee, General Manager of the Wingate by Wyndham Orlando International Airport, by utilizing this method our potential guest not only receive the perks of being able to meet their travel budget by the Name Your Own Price model, but also by booking directly with the hotel, the guest is able to guarantee room type and smoking preference and submit any special request.” The Wingate by Wyndham Orlando Airport is excited to offer it’s guests in a bad economy not only a tool to use to be able to budget their trip better, but to also guarantee their reservation and have peace of mind before beginning their travels

Red Hot and Boom in Altamonte Springs July 3

An Independence Day tradition for 15 years, Red Hot & Boom returns to Altamonte Springs on Saturday, July 3 at Cranes Roost Park from 4:00 pm - 11:00 pm. Thousands of people will be in attendance to save themselves a spot on the grounds to enjoy live entertainment as well as the evening’s fireworks display. Altamonte Springs is just north of downtown Orlando off of I-4, and Red Hot & Boom is one of the most popular Independence Day fireworks displays for Orlando area residents.

Red Hot & Boom is sponsored by XL106.7 Radio, and features children's activities, vendor booths, food, drink and a 25 minute fireworks display in the evening after nightfall, which is synchronized with a mix of patriotic tunes and today's musical hits. This years entertainment lineup includes 2AM Club, Neon Trees, Jessie James, White Tie Affair, Charice, FeFe Dobson, Big 10-4, and Aaron Fresh.

Lawn chairs and blankets are permitted for this free event, no coolers, personal fireworks or pets will be allowed inside the venue. For more information, visit the Uptown Altamonte website.

Grocery store near Peabody Hotel in Orlando Florida

The Peabody Hotel in Orlando Florida is in the heart of the International Drive tourism district, but guests of the Peabody and other local hotels usually notice fairly quickly that there is no full service grocery store on I-Drive. While there are small independently owned grocery stores near the Peabody Hotel in Orlando Florida with elevated tourist prices, budget-conscious shoppers don’t need to look far to find a full service Super Walmart at 8101 South John Young Parkway in Orlando, less than five miles away from the hotel.

From the Peabody Hotel in Orlando, Florida drive north on International Drive, turn right (heading east) on Sand Lake Road, and the Walmart Supercenter is at the southeast corner of Sand Lake Road and the John Young Parkway. The Walmart Supercenter includes a full service grocery and is open 24 hours (check the store’s website for pharmacy hours). In addition to the grocery store, pharmacy and other clothing and house wares departments, this Walmart also has a McDonald’s, Garden Center, one hour Photo Center, tire and lube service and a vision center.

Kissimmee Disney Hotels

Celebration Suites at Old Town, located in sunny Kissimmee, Florida, is celebrating summer like never before! Over the last year, this family-friendly hotel has added tons of new amenities and services for guests to take advantage of. On top of these changes, they are offering great prices and specials on Kissimmee’s favorite suites.

A variety of options are now available when booking at Celebration Suites, both online and on the phone. Arriving early? Select early check-in to ensure you have a room waiting for you. Late check-out is also available for guests who want to sleep in or spend their day by the pool before leaving. Continental breakfast is a steal when purchased in advance for only $5 per day for everyone in the room! Not sure if you want to purchase breakfast just yet? Don’t worry, breakfast can be purchased at the hotel for only $1.50/per person and kids under 6 eat free!

By far, the most popular booking option now offered is the opportunity to prepay and save 20% on room reservations. With rates already starting at $59.95, this means guests are able to enjoy their vacation for a fraction of the cost by booking in advance.

All of Celebration Suites’ great family-friendly amenities are waiting for you this summer. Splash into one of three outdoor pools, play in the updated game room, stay on top of things in the new business center or jump into action on the basketball court or sand volleyball court. There are so many more amenities to discover including FREE transportation to the theme parks. Call 1-800-327-9126 or visit Celebration Suites online at www.suitesatoldtown.com to reserve your Kissimmee vacation today!

What if I prefer to reschedule my vacation to a different date because of a hurricane warning? Will I be able to get my same accommodations?

If you are scheduled to arrive within seven (7) days of the hurricane warning, you may call us in advance to reschedule without Disney imposed change fee. All amounts you paid to Disney for rooms, park tickets, Disney dining plans and other Disney products and services will be applied toward your new reservation. Any discounts or free offers applicable to your original vacation will not apply to the rescheduled vacation. We cannot guarantee availability of similar accommodations for the new travel dates. The policy does not apply to certain special events and dining experiences.

Google Will Give Freebies – and Ads – to Orlando Airport Travelers

Google is about to set up electronic shop at Orlando International Airport bringing passengers more free Internet services, new smart-phone apps and even free international phone calls from international gate areas.



The Internet search-engine giant and the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority are negotiating a two-year deal that would have Google sponsor the airport's existing free Wi-Fi Internet service and provide a variety of other new services. In return, Google would pay the airport at least $125,000 a year.



According to a proposal outlined to the GOAA board on Wednesday, as many as 50 free Internet–surfing kiosks would be sprinkled around the airport terminal complex, including at the airsides, so people without laptop computers or smart phones could get online.



Source: Scott Powers, Orlando Sentinel

Marriott opens Lakeshore Reserve at Grande Lakes

The newest Marriott Vacation Club property to open in Orlando is the Marriott Lakeshore Reserve at Grande Lakes. The resort is located on a 500 acre parcel of land that is adjacent to the JW Marriott and Ritz Carlton Orlando Grande Lakes properties. This Marriott Vacation Club timeshare resort officially opened on June 4.

According to the resort’s website, the property has 340 proposed townhomes and villas , Two swimming pools; kidsMAZE® and teenMAZE®+ programs — (Marriott’s Activity Zone Experience), a Fitness center featuring Life Fitness Equipment and full locker rooms, Firepits for outdoor evening activities, a Waterside promenade from the resort to the JW Marriott, and enhanced outdoor grilling facilities.

Prospective owners can have the choice of two bedroom/two bath, two bedroom/ two and a half bath, or three bedroom/three bathroom villas. Amenities include fully equipped kitchen with granite countertops, stainless-steel appliances including an oven, microwave, full-size refrigerator and dishwasher. The units range in size from approximately 1,186 square ft. units that will accommodate 8 guests to approximately 1,625 to 1,655 square ft. units that will accommodate 12 guests.

Boys Town Central Florida Demetree Campus Activity Center Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Boys Town Central Florida Demetree Campus
Activity Center Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Campus Tours
WHEN: Friday, June 25 at 11 a.m.
Boys Town Central Florida Demetree Campus
975 Oklahoma Street, Oviedo FL 32765 | 407.588.2170

Boys Town Central Florida has been saving children and healing families in Florida for more than 23 years. In 2009, 3,093 children received help through Boys Town Central Florida's integrated continuum of youth care programs, including 1,327 who received direct care through Treatment Family Services, Intervention and Assessment Services, In-Home Family Services and Child and Family Support Services, including Common Sense Parenting© and Care Coordination. Visit their website for more info www.boystowncentralflorida.org

Rays pitcher Matt Garza and son visit Adventure Island

Tampa Bay Rays pitcher Matt Garza, joined by son Matthew Garza II, celebrated Father’s Day at Adventure Island on Monday. Garza and son enjoyed a day of water-drenched fun in the sun, ending the day with a race between father and son down the hydra-tubes at Paradise Lagoon.

Located right across the street from Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Adventure Island is 30 acres of water-drenched fun in the sun featuring the ultimate combination of high-speed thrills and tropical, tranquil surroundings for guests of all ages. Within a soothing Key West atmosphere await slides, corkscrews, water falls, a wave pool, children’s water playground and other family attractions. Dig your toes into the sand or relax all day in a private cabana.

For more information about Busch Gardens’ water park, visit AdventureIsland.com.

Old Town Park Info

Free Admission! Free Parking!

Old Town stores are open 365 days a year, from 10:00am-11:00pm.
Bars are open until 2:00am.

$22 per child- Includes 3 hours unlimited amusement rides, a meal voucher for each child to eat at any of our restaurants and a party room for 2 hours.

$30 per child- Includes 3 hours unlimited amusement rides plus bumper cars, laser tag and go karts, a meal voucher for each child to eat at any of our restaurants and a party room for 2 hours.

You will have an indoor party room with tables & chairs, allowing you plenty of time to have your own party for two hours and then enjoy 3 hours of unlimited rides at all of the attractions listed above.

Available times: Saturday and Sunday only at 12:00 pm and 3:00 pm.
Minimum party size: 10 children.

Birthday parties must be reserved in advance and paid in full at time of scheduling.
Reservations are based on availability.

Cancellation policy: All parties are non-refundable
Please note: Old Town is an outdoor attraction. There is no compensation for weather-related issues.
To schedule your party, call 407-396-4888

What can I do if a hurricane warning is issued?

If a hurricane warning is issued by the National Hurricane Center for the Orlando area or for your place of residence no more than seven (7) days before your scheduled arrival date, you may call in advance to reschedule or cancel your Walt Disney Travel Company Magic Your Way vacation package and most room only reservations (booked directly with Disney) without any cancellation or change fees imposed by Disney. This policy also applies to Disney's Vero Beach Resort or Disney's Hilton Head Island Resort in the event a hurricane warning is issued for those destinations.

Lanzarote Car Hire: Cherish the beauty of the amazing island in an amazing car

Lanzarote is a small Spanish island situated in the Atlantic Ocean. Though small, but the place is known for attracting and holding the tourists by its fascinating landscapes and scenic beauty. The major tourist allurements include the Timanfaya National Park, the islet of La Graciosa and many more. However, it is pretty much difficult for someone who is new to the place, to manage visiting all these sights. The best way of transportation in such a situation is of course hiring a car. Lanzarote car hire is very popular among the tourists. It is the most convenient and worth paying service in the city.
Well, you need to follow few easy steps to get a great holiday experience. First, visit an appropriate website for the required information about the car hiring service in the city. Second is to compare cheap holiday car rentals and finally grab the best offer!
Lanzarote car hire is really an economic form of transportation and thus preferred by most of the tourists. The best part is you need not to waste your valuable time in going to the agencies to rent a car. It is easier than anything else. All you need to do in order to opt for a Lanzarote car hire service is to sit in front of your computer and book the cars online. Yes, now you don’t have to worry as this internet driven world has made you avail with lots of such websites where you can get the details about the different sights of Lanzarote, the car hire services being offered in the place and can also compare cheap holiday car rentals.
Comparing cheap holiday car rental rates by different companies can be very helpful for you to opt for the right service. Thus if you are planning to visit the breathtaking views of this amazing island, go for a Lanzarote car hire service and explore the enthralling beauty of the place in a convenient way. Just log in to the appropriate site and get all the detailed information about the different companies offering car rental services in Lanzarote . Compare the rates online and get the best deal in your hand without any kind of hustle and bustle!

Milan's Trams

Orange trams brighten up already colorful streets.

Rumor has it that no map exists for the tram system in the city of Milan. Searching around travel forums shows people asking for said map but no one ever being able to produce one. I don't know if one exists either.... Search 'Milan tram' on Google Maps and you will get this map with the locations of tram stops, but no indication at all where they go.

Tram stops indicated by red dots on Google Maps.

But I do love the Milan tram system. Maybe for this seeming chaos and quirkiness I love it. It seems to me there is hardly a street in central Milan where you won't see a tram crossing in front of you at an intersection, hardly a street without a maze of intertwined wires above providing electricity for them. And I love the bright orange trams curving and clanging, passing each other on parallel tracks or backing up behind one another. It takes me back to my childhood somehow, stirring up memories of being led around by my mother, holding tightly to my hand, on New York City subways. Or maybe to Christmas train displays in Manhattan. Seeing trams I feel I'm inside one of those displays. It's probably a combination of those memories, since without having any clue where I am going I'm usually led around by the hand on the Milan trams now too, just as if I were small.

Inside, the trams also evoke a bygone era, again reinforcing this childhood sense in me. They are the old original cars, beautifully maintained with their shapely wooden seats and brass handrails kept polished just by the hundreds of hands holding them. Little white light fixtures hang from the ceiling, and even the modern adverts don't distract too much.

Decor from an earlier time... Wood and brass, opaque glass lighting...

... and carved wooden benches.

The problem does remain though, how to use the system without a map? I have found this link, for the Azienda Transporti Milanese, otherwise known as the ATM. Here, you can put in a starting and ending location in Milan and receive a map and directions as to which trams, buses, or metro to take. There is an option you can click which eliminates the underground, meaning that your trip will be only on trams or buses. And the site is available also in English. I played around and it works quite well. This could turn out to be very useful... I've added it on the right column menu of Important Links. Next time maybe I'll use this system in advance, and bring maps with me into Milan. And who knows? After some time maybe I'll know something the Milanese all seem to know.. just where indeed each of those trams is going!

The ATM also runs two very special restaurant trams through Milan. These lovingly recreated trams serve chef-prepared dinners while taking passengers on a sightseeing tour of Milan by night. Read up here for more of the details and other excursions that ATM offers:

http://www.atm-mi.it/en/AltriServizi/TempoLibero/Pages/ATMosfera.aspx

Inside, and outside, the ATM dinner/sightseeing trams.

Here again is the link for the ATM giromilano, the journey planner for Milan: http://www.atm-mi.it/en/Giromilano/Pages/default.aspx

And, some more meanderings around Milan:

FYI -- Going To Milan From Stresa
The Roof Of Rinascente In Milan
Roof of Il Duomo di Milano

ADDED June 23, 2010: YES! A reader has just informed me that on the Giromilano page of the ATM site the tram route can indeed be found. In the section called Route and Timetable finder, on the left, choose a tram route from the drop down menu. The map will then display that tram route, and list below it all the tram stops on said route. Clicking on the name of a specific stop will show you its location on the map, as well as give access to a timetable. Still a bit confusing, but extremely helpful information. Fantastico! Thank you very much to Marcos!

http://www.atm-mi.it/en/Giromilano/Pages/default.aspx

Weddings at Waldorf Astoria Orlando and Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek

For wedding ceremonies, receptions and honeymoons, Orlando is fast becoming a “go to” destination for couples in love. Both the Waldorf Astoria Orlando and the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek have catering and event specialists on hand to ensure that every detail goes according to plan. Both resorts also feature custom menus and themed décor, as well as specialty wedding cakes.

The Waldorf Astoria Orlando has a signature island that covers 25,000 square feet. It is blanketed with lush landscaping and can be beautifully furnished to accommodate wedding parties of most sizes. For indoor receptions, the Grand Ballroom has 8,100 ft. available for dining and dancing for hundreds of guests. At the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek, the Bonnet Creek Ballroom boasts 36,046 square ft. of space, enough to accommodate at least 2,00 guests at a banquet.

According to a recent article in the Orlando Sentinel, The Waldorf-Astoria Orlando and Hilton Orlando at Bonnet Creek have just begun catering to the area's Indian community by hosting Hindu weddings. These ceremonies tend to be lavish affairs with as many as 400 – 500 guests, and authentic Indian cuisine plays an important role in the celebration.

From intimate gatherings to a Bollywood style celebration, the Waldorf Astoria Orlando and the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek can make any wedding a moment to remember forever.

Shakira Live In Concert! Orlando Amway Arena

Shakira, one of the most exciting and successful global artists in recent history, with more than 214 global award nominations and more than 50 million albums sold worldwide, has announced her 2010 global tour, including a stop September 28 in Orlando at the Amway Arena!

In keeping with Shakira's inspired originality, as well as her sensual rhythms and deliciously unpredictable spirit, the tour promises to push the limits of the live concert experience, bringing fans a pulsating spectacle crossing all musical boundaries. Buy tickets on Ticketmaster.com, the #1 ticketing portal on the web

DRIP Presents a New Rock Show "RIFF"

DRIP, an Orlando based performance art company, is currently creating their next big production; a rock show called “RIFF”. Consistent with the trademark audience-centric DRIP experience, this show puts the audience in the middle from the minute guests arrive. The more adventurous audience members may check their shoes at the door and experience the show barefoot. All guests will be in splash zones and refreshing puddles of water throughout the show.

“DRIP’s new show, ‘RIFF’, is a wet, raw, sexy rock ‘n’ roll experience. The sneak peak has a live rock band, contemporary sensual dance, splashing water, black light guitar strings and emotional stories told through moments in time that are caught with a strobe light.” explains DRIP’s CEO and Creative Director, Jessica Mariko.
DRIP has performed alongside acts such as Blue Man Group and Cirque de Soleil and specializes in creating theatrical experiences that seamlessly combine performing and visual arts. The audience is often right in the middle of the highly visual performances, making them very intimate, sensual and full sensory.

For two weekends in June (10-12 and 17-19), the public and booking representatives are invited to DRIP’s design studio (4502 Old Winter Garden Rd #E2, Orlando, FL 32811), a warehouse just 8 minutes from downtown Orlando, to enjoy a 20 minute sneak peak of “RIFF”, followed by a talkback and after party. Capacity is limited.
If you miss DRIP’s “RIFF” showcase in Orlando, you’ll have one more chance to see it in Miami, July 22 and 23 at Eazy Street Gallery (3501 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33127).

QUICK INFORMATION
“RIFF”
A 20 minute sneak peek of "RIFF" & Warehouse Party Fundraiser

ORLANDO, FL
June 10-12 & June 17-19
Time: 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM 
Location: DRIP’s Design Studio, 4502 Old Winter Garden Rd #E2, Orlando, FL 32811 (8 minutes from downtown Orlando)
MIAMI, FL 
July 22 & 23
Time: 8:00 PM - Midnight 
Location: Eazy Street Gallery, 3501 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33127

No Admission Fee (Donations appreciated)

Visit their website for more information www.ILoveDRIP.com

50 percent Summer Escape deal at Best Western Orlando Gateway

The wait is over—the Wizarding World of Harry Potter has finally opened at Universal Orlando, just in time for the Best Western Orlando Gateway’s Summer Escape at Half Price deal. Simply book through this link and receive 50% off when you stay two nights or longer. This offer is based on consecutive nights and some black out dates apply. The discount is based off normal room rates.

As an official Universal Orlando resort hotel, Best Western Orlando Gateway is minutes away from the hottest ticket in town—the new Harry Potter attraction. The hotel is located in the heart of Orlando’s tourist district on International Drive just across the street from the Wet n Wild water park, so dozens of shopping, dining, and entertainment options are just a short walk from your hotel room.

The Best Western Orlando Gateway provides FREE scheduled shuttle transportation to Universal Studios ®, Islands of Adventure®, Universal CityWalk®, Sea World Adventure Park and Sea World's interactive park, Discovery Cove. Pets are allowed and families are always welcome.

Celebrate Father's Day at Gaylord Palms

Celebrate Father's Day at Gaylord Palms
Save 25% on rooms June 19-20
Get away with Dad on Father's Day weekend. Treat Dad like a king, and you’ll save 25% on an overnight stay!

Father's Day Beer Brunch at Villa de Flora
Sunday, June 20
We're putting a spin on Sunday Brunch in honor of Dad's special day. Make plans to join us for Orlando's premier Father's Day Beer Brunch! Enjoy a preselected flight of three great beers — Sam Adams, Peroni, and Kronengourg.


Father's Day Spa Specials
Available in June
Treat dad to an afternoon at the spa! Special packages and gift certificates are available!


SummerFest Featuring Summer Rockin' Fun
Now – August 29, 2010
The entire hotel transforms into a family music festival with interactive attractions like Rock Band competitions, Live DJ's spinnin' while you're dippin' poolside, Dive-In Family Movies under the stars, and, of course, live bands staged at the restaurants so you can feast your eyes and ears at our five uniquely themed dining venues. Room rates including kids eat FREE start at only $149**.

For the best value, our Rockin' Fun package starts at only $199** and includes kids eat FREE, a $40 daily meal credit***, resort fee, and parking. Save even more when you stay June 30 - July 4 — packages start at only $189**!

And don't miss out on these great FREE SummerFest-only events:
• Roadies Challenge - Hidden Guitar Scavenger Hunt
• Live Alligator and Key West Lagoon Fish Feedings
• Dive-In Family Movies

For complete SummerFest details, click here

Camelia, Rose And Wisteria Win Flower Photo Contest

The judges have made their decision, and the winners have been chosen in the "Stresa and her Lake: Flowering Atmosphere" photo contest. Stresa e il suo lago: atmosfere fiorite, as it is in Italian, was organized by the Turistica Pro Loco di Stresa, in collaboration with the Assessorato al Turismo della Citta' di Stresa, two groups that promote tourism and the city. The goal of the contest was to increase the appreciation of Stresa as a floral community, and to produce more images of the city shown in this way. And no small coincidence that this has happened at the same time as the visit to Stresa by the judges for this year's Entente Florale Competition, when Stresa will be judged against other European cities for the title of most floral city in Europe!

And the winners are:

1st Place: Scorcio serale al profumo di camelia, An Evening View With the Scent of Camelias, photographed by Stefania Rosso of Stresa.




2nd Place: Rosa si nasce, A Rose is Born, photographed by Simone Lamorte of Omegna.



3rd Place: Trionfo di glicine, The Triumph of Wisteria, photographed by Umberto Leoni of Stresa.

From now until June 20 all of the photographs entered will be on display at Spazio Luparia on via A.M. Bolongaro. They can also be seen on the Web site www. stresaturismo.it.

Other flowery news:

Fior di Gusto -- A Gastronomic Event
Stresa -- Community Of Flowers
La 43rd Annuale Mostra Nazionale della Camelia

Have you taken a special photo of Stresa with flowers as the theme? Send us a copy... maybe we'll post our own little flower show!

Renting a Car with a Debit Card?

Do I have to have a credit card to rent a car? I have AAA, and also need to know if I don't need a credit card, how much much would a deposit be? If any?

You don't necessarily have to have a credit card to rent a car. Some car rental companies will accept a visa or mastercard debit or check card in your own name. (You must still meet the minimum age requirements, drivers license requirements, etc.) The deposit is generally the full amount of the rental plus... it could be plus a certain dollar amount or plus a certain percentage of the total cost of the rental... that varies from company to company.

Note: Car rental companies can change their policies at any time. Please double check with your preferred car rental company before pick up if you have any questions on debit card rental policies and the amount of deposit required when using a debit card.

I've compiled a detailed list of debit card rental policies for 8 car rental companies that can be found on Debit Card Policies -- Best Car Rental Tips.com


There are some car rental companies that may offer the option of using a cash deposit to rent, but this is something that you cannot research or book online. You would have to contact the local branch of the car rental company directly to request information on cash rentals, or contact their toll free reservation line and speak with a reservation agent to find out if they offer a cash rental option, and if so, what the deposit would be.

Hope this helps.

Harbor Nights Americana at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando!

HARBOR NIGHTS AMERICANA
Friday, July 2 at 6:30pm

Kick off the Independence Day weekend at Harbor Nights Americana at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando!

Join us for a wine tasting and jazz event designed to capture the ambiance of the Mediterranean. Enjoy select wines and sparkling wines, gourmet food samples, live music performed by The Robert Harris Group and more! Harbor Nights Americana takes place in the Tuscan Ballroom at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel.

CLICK HERE TO GET TICKETS
Tickets: $35* on-line or $45 at the door
Reserved Seating**: $60* on-line or $70 at the door

*Ticketing fees apply. **Includes Harbor Nights ticket, reserved seating, private wine station & passed hors d'ouevres.

Summertime at the Orlando attractions

Summertime is definitely the high travel season for Orlando, when visitors from around the country and across the globe fill the theme park attractions. And this year, there are several factors that might make Orlando even more attractive to tourists than ever. With gas prices going down, Orlando has become more affordable as a road trip destination for Floridian travelers.

The driving force for Orlando tourism this summer is expected to be The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando's Islands of Adventure. The soft opening is already underway, and the highly anticipated grand opening has been generating a buzz among theme park lovers for a couple of years now, and it will undoubtedly attract fans of J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter novels from both sides of the Atlantic.

Manta... Celebrating its 1-year anniversary at SeaWorld Orlando

Manta is an all-new flying roller coaster at SeaWorld Orlando that seamlessly blends up-close animal encounters with a head-first, face-down thrill ride that's sure to top the must-see lists again this summer.

Celebrate "Life Moments" at Gaylord Palms Resort

Turn life's special moments into forever memories.
Celebrate with your loved ones at Gaylord Palms Resort.

Make your anniversary as memorable as the day you said, "I do!" Celebrate in style in a deluxe guest room, enjoy preferred reservations at any of our world-class restaurants, get a congratulations message on our giant AstroVision screen, and best of all... get your SECOND NIGHT FREE*! Learn more...


Now you can celebrate birthdays with twice as much spirit. Book the first night of your birthday stay and get the SECOND NIGHT FREE*!
Learn more...

Creating romantic memories with those you love is important, so we've created a getaway for you including champagne welcome amenity, $40 meal credit and more! Learn more...


Get away with Dad on Father's Day weekend. Treat Dad like a king, and you’ll save 25% on an overnight stay! Learn more...


Take the family on tour to Orlando and vacation like Rock Stars at this summer’s best sounding getaway. For those about to rock, we salute you with a non-stop splash of musical activities and amplified events at this summer’s most rockin' vacation destination - SummerFest! Learn more...

Little Gifts

A reader asked me for ideas. She wanted small gifts that she could bring back from Stresa for her friends and family at home. She didn't want the typical tourist souvenirs, and she needed to buy many, so what she was looking for were things that were small enough, light enough, inexpensive enough, and more individual to Stresa than a keyring or t-shirt.

And so I went out into the piazza with this mission in mind. The parameters of my scavenger hunt were these: I wanted to find items that cost no more than a few euro each, about 5 maximum. I wanted something that you could buy many of the same thing that would satisfy a great number of people. And I wanted things that one could pack easily into luggage without having to buy a new carryon bag, and that could be transported without too much worry about breakage or spills. Here are a few of the items I saw that I think fit the bill.

La Cambusa on via Cavour is a treasure trove of goodies. From small bottles of local wines and chianti to all manner of local delicacies, Rosaria has stocked this store with something to please everyone.



I like these soaps that I saw in baskets outside L'Acqua di Stresa shop in Piazza Cadorna. Made locally, and available in several floral scents, including the famous local camelia, these are small, beautifully wrapped, everyone can use them, and they cost only 2.50 euro each.



Just off the Piazza, outside Gastronomia Bianchetti on via Garibaldi, I was drawn to this selection of colorful local pastas. How about combining a bag of pasta with a small bottle of chianti? I've stretched the rules a little bit here... although these bags of pasta are light and inexpensive and not very large I would be concerned however for their safety during transporting them. I wouldn't want to crush them packed in a suitcase, so do take care with that.



Along the same lines I like the idea of small bags of coffee. Some of the cappuccino bars can sell you their own coffee in small paper sacs. Torrefazione Moka, on via A.M. Bolongaro, has a mixture that they call 'Stresa'. "Aromatic," they call it, "In any moment of the day when one wants to gift oneself with a moment of true pleasure," they say, "that is the moment to savour this coffee called Stresa." Look at these gorgeous jars of coffee at Torrefazione Moka. Marcello is usually there and he'll be happy to help you with your selection.



I like this idea of a gift a bit more local, a bit more practical. A gift can be really of a place, not just from a place. And if there are many people that you want to bring back a little piece of Stresa for, these ideas should get you off to a good start!

Some other posts about shopping in Stresa:

Enoteca La Cambusa
Wunder Kammer on Isola Bella
Market Towns
Antiques and Collectibles

Rockin Lake Eola

Consider it an outdoor Happy Hour to cap off a busy work week—this summer on Friday nights from 5:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m. Lake Eola Park in downtown Orlando is hosting an after work outdoor party with live nationally known bands as well as local artists. The event is open to the public and visitors can enjoy an assortment of foods as well as alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

In addition to the Rockin Lake Eola event every Friday, visitors can enjoy the Lake Eola fountain, which is finally spurting out water after being zapped out of commission by a lightning strike in August of 2009. The fountain still has an estimated $1 million worth of repairs remaining, but the City of Orlando had to get the water running first to prevent the summer heat from damaging the fountain any further.

To get a full schedule of performers and other special events at Rockin Lake Eola, visit the event website.

Rent a Car Edinburgh to Feel the Magic of Edinburgh

Rent a car to Edinburgh to explore the city with its beautiful cityscape. The beauty of the city can be best appreciated by renting a car to Edinburgh.
Edinburgh is a city that draws visitors in with its seemingly endless selection of attractions and ancient charms. Dominated at its centre by the amazing Edinburgh Castle, which looms over the city on an extinct volcano and shelters some fantastic public gardens, Edinburgh is an immediately striking city. Renowned for its party spirit, Edinburgh comes alive at New Year and of course during the world-famous Arts Festival. You can be there on these occasions by going for rent a car Edinburgh. Indoor and outdoor performances are to be seen across the city, from the smallest living room production to epic theatre at the Royal Lyceum. Those looking for buzzing nightlife and great restaurants should head to Grassmarket. Shoppers can spend hours wandering Princes Street and the numerous alleys and cobbled roads dotted with boutiques and old-fashioned sweet shops.
Rent a car in Edinburgh and explore the city at your own pace. With rented car Edinburgh make a round of the city, and enjoy the tourist spots like Play House, Edinburgh Central Youth Hostel, Balmoral, Sheriton Grand, Caledonian Hilton, George Hotel, Scotsman, Scottish Parliament, Arthurs Seat, Edinburgh Castle, St James Centre, Princess Street, John Lewis, Harvey Nichols, Scots Monument, Usher Hall. Take a drive in rent a car Edinburgh up to Arthur’s Seat, and then walk to the very top to enjoy some astounding views of the city and the Firth of Forth. For a fascinating daytrip, you can also visit Rosslyn Chapel, which is famous for its amazing gothic architecture and its recent appearance in the all-conquering Da Vinci Code.
For a fascinating journey to Edinburgh, choose rent a car Edinburgh and delve into the magical world of Edinburgh.

Disney Shopping

Merchandise purchases don’t have to be a burden. There are alternatives to carrying the packages throughout the parks:

• Package pickup is available at no charge. Merchandise is moved to package pickup, conveniently located near the front entrance of each park, for guests’ pickup when they are leaving the park.
• Hotel delivery is available at no charge to guests of Walt Disney World resorts. Purchases made prior to 7 p.m. will be delivered to the guest’s hotel by noon the following day. Purchases made after 7 p.m. will be at the hotel on the second day after purchase.
• Shipping is available for an additional charge at the time of purchase

Orta From The Other Side

The view back to Orta, from the Pella side.

Lago d'Orta is another beautiful lake, close to Stresa, with charms of its own. Many of Stresa's tourists include a visit to Orta in their itinerary. Here, guest writer Tony tells us about another way to see Orta:

Orta From The Other Side

Orta San Giulio is a beautiful town, but you must park above and walk down and the walk back to the parking is tiring, and those pesky parking meters consume Euros. So park in Pella, they only charge on the weekends and holidays.

Orta from the other side is more level, and does involve a roundtrip on the lake boat Azalea or Ortensia and it is four Euros roundtrip and you can get off at the island if you wish.

But you were going to take a boat trip anyway.

Lake towns are of course graded by their lungolago, that walking area along the lake. And Pella has finished a modernization of theirs, even if it is interrupted in parts where you need to walk along the road. Look at lake walk as you leave on the boat and consider walking when you return from Orta. Oh, another plus on Pella’s lungolago, nice new benches for sitting and reading or napping. If you have time before the boat comes into Pella you can have a glass at the bar restaurant near the boat dock. Or if you are not pressed, sit down at Antico Torre where they have their own gelato and make a variety of crepes. Very relaxing.

Pella is mellow compared to Orta’s many shops and hustle and bustle. But Orta has one of the most beautiful lake walks in Italy, just to the north of Hotel San Rocco, and dedicated to those lost on 9-11. It extends all the way around the lake back to the turn to Orta off the main road. And a few benches are complemented by docks out over the water that seem to invite those who wish to sun themselves like lizards. The Orta lungolago walk is a natural digestive for that lunch you had at one of Orta’s many restaurants.

Back in Pella you can walk the road north to Ronco. The road dead ends at Ronco, a small neighborhood town of Pella. There is no bar or market or hotel there, a question you will be asked frequently by those approaching you as you walk back with a thirsty look. Just a very very quiet little lake town. About two kilometers on a road that is above the lake. And there are a few benches down on the lakefront in Ronco.

So consider the road, and water, less traveled the next time you visit Orta.

Antico Torre in Pella.

Pella's lovely lungolago.

Thanks again to Tony, for always expanding our knowledge of this area. I'm adding this one to my list of things I'd like to do... I feel more relaxed even after just reading this post. The photographs are also all from Tony.

Here's the link to the main site for the Lago navigazione d'Orta: http://www.navigazionelagodorta.it/it/index.php

Also at Orta:

The Sacri Monti Near Stresa