Christmas Parades at Disney's Animal Kingdom!

The Most Miserly Mom absolutely loves Disney's Animal Kingdom. I love the wildlife, the foliage, the rides, and the atmosphere of this Disney park - I could travel there once a week. And at Christmas time I love their parade. They call it "Mickey's Jingle Jungle Parade."

Disney combines the Jungle rhythm and the beat with traditional Christmas Carols in a Holiday Parade led by Goofy himself.

Not only can you challenge yourself on Expedition Everest this Holiday Season, you can Christmas Carol your way around Animal Kingdom while you do it!

Happy Holidays from The Most Miserly Mom!

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/
Check out my book:
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!

Cheap Disney Hotel Rates for the Holidays!

The Most Miserly Mom loves to report when Disney comes out with special rates at their resorts! To get a great deal at the Walt Disney World resorts is awesome, because then you can enjoy the parks and use the Disney transportation and still travel on a Miserly budget.

Here's the scoop:

If you are a Disney passholder and you travel between 12/9 - 12/14 and 12/17 - 12/23 you can get rates as low as $59 per night plus tax! For this rate you must ask for code FBZ.

Start Saving and enjoy the Holidays at Disney!

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/
Check out my book: A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!

New Year's Eve at Universal Studios?

The Most Miserly Mom knows a great New Year's Eve party when she sees it! And Universal Studios of course has the best ever!

Universal Studios holds the New Year's Eve party at City Walk, their entertainment boardwalk area, and this year Cyndi Lauper will be there! The Most Miserly Mom has enjoyed her singing at City Walk before - she is awesome!

Universal offers a ticket price that will include shrimp, filet mignon, tons of festivities, and of course this great entertainment! Be miserly and buy your tickets in advance!

Check out Universal's web site for ways to save money and more information on the New Year's fesitivities:
http://www.universalorlando.com/holidays/index.html

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/
Check out my book:
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!

Universal Studios / Meet the Grinch!

The Most Miserly Mom has watched "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" for many many moons, and it still remains a favorite of mine. Universal Studios captures that memory and includes the Grinch in their Holiday festivities.

Not only will Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure be decked out for the Holidays, you can actually get your picture taken with the Grinch himself at Islands of Adventure. Universal offers the Macy's Holiday parade and the special Grinch Meeting between December 8th and January 1st.

Check out more information about holidays at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure:
http://www.universalorlando.com/holidays/index.html

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/
Check out my book:
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!

The Dining Book is here!

We're celebrating around here. New baby, of course, but also a new Disney book, back today from the printer. Sales can commence!



Buy it from Amazon: The Unofficial Dining Guide to Walt Disney World 2007: Current Menus and Prices for All Restaurants at the Parks and Hotels

Cheap Airfare to Orlando & Disney World for Christmas!

The Most Miserly Mom knows how important it is to save money on your airline tickets to Orlando & Disney World. After all, airfare can be one of the biggest portions of your travel budget. Here are a few Miserly trips to secure cheap airfare to Orlando & Disney world this December:

1. Be flexible if you can! Don't lock yourself into specific dates until you see what is available.
2. Try and fly midweek - Tuesdays and Wednesdays are easier for cheaper flights to Disney!
3. If you can fly before Christmas - do it! If you can stay clear of Christmas/New Year's week - do it! If not - book it now if you haven't already!
4. Check on line. On line airfares can save you big money! Check on Tuesdays for big savings!

Here are some web sites to check:

www.orbitz.com
www.expedia.com
www.southwest.com
www.spiritair.com
www.allegiantair.com

5. Double check with the airlines themselves to make sure you got the best deal!

Happy Flying and Happy Holidays from The Most Miserly Mom!

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/
Check out my book:
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!

Disney World Vacations & a Personal Phone Call from Mickey Mouse?

The Most Miserly Mom knows what joy a trip to Disney World brings to your little ones, but how about topping that off with a personal phone call from Mickey Mouse himself?

"The Magic For Less" travel company is offering this special phone call from Mickey Mouse for people that book their Disney vacation with them by December 23, 2006.

All the information can be found at:

http://www.magicalmountain.net/WDWNewsDetail.asp?NewsID=1378

Happy Holidays from The Most Miserly Mom!

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/
Check out my book:
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!

Disney World Gearing up for Christmas!

The Most Miserly Mom decorated her house this weekend for Christmas, did you? The folks at Disney World have certainly decorated the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and MGM studios!

MGM studios is adorned with thousands and thousands of Christmas lights! You can enjoy the magic of "The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights" from November 13-January 7 this year.

Disney has added over 400 dimmer controls to the lights, allowing them to control their every movement. Every 15 to 20 minutes, all of the lights on the entire length of the street will launch into a wonderful performance, perfectly synchronized to the music by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra!

Talk about Christmas lights! The Most Miserly Mom loves these lights!

For more information go to: http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/wdw/parks/specialEvents?id=OsborneLightsSpecialEventPage&CMP=EMC-AP092006eflashII&bhcp=1

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/ Check out my book:
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!

Holiday Crowds at Disney!

The Most Miserly Mom visited Disney Village Marketplace on the Friday after Thanksgiving and boy was it crowded! The masses of people at Disney were not a shock to this Miserly Mom however.

I actually love milling around Disney World with throngs of visitors from around the world. I especiallly love this when I have my sons with me. They actually absorb a bit of culture while enjoying the Disney magic!

While meandering through the Christmas store at Disney, the Disney Toy Store (with Mr. Potato head!), and the glorious Lego Land, we met people from the United Kingdom, Australia, Arizona, and Ohio. Amazingly enough, even with the crowds, virtually every adult and every child at Disney had a smile.

The crowds will die down now, and we can head over to Disney's Magic Kingom or to Epcot or MGM studios and enjoy shorter lines! There is alwasy something to enjoy at Disney!

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/
Check out my book:
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!

Free Fun at Disney Village MarketPlace!

The Most Miserly Mom visited The Disney Village Market Place yesterday. The sights and sounds were incredible! I have always recommended the Disney Marketplace for families to enjoy a few hours of fun together for free!

My family became immersed in Disney magic the minute we entered the marketplace. Christmas carols resonated throughout the shopping area, dreamy chocolate wafted up to envelope our senses and glitter and decorations for the festive holiday season greeted us at every turn!

We tried on silly hats, looked at beautiful ornaments, checked out the fabulous Disney Toy store with Mr. Potato Head and Buzz Lightyear. We visited the Lego store of course - Checked out all of the cool characters for ourselves and oohed and aahed.

All in all it was a Cheap Orlando day for us! We window shopped and enjoyed the Disney World magic and bonded as a family.

The Most Miserly Mom did by a few stocking stuffers at the $10 and under store. After all, I am Miserly!

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/
Check out my book:
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!

Orlando, Disney & Flying?

The Most Miserly Mom found an exhilarating adventure on Olrando's very own International drive yesterday! It's not Disney World, but it's a place where you can actually skydive inside!

That's right! You can realistically skydive in a high energy wind tunnel! You float, you fly, you can somersault, soar, and kick your adrenaline up to high gear.

Skyventure is the name of this attraction, and The Most Miserly Mom is fascinated by this Orlando attraction.

The cost is @$39 per person, and it is worth every dollar for the smiles and excitement and memories it brings. You can truly fly!

For more information go to www.skyventureorlando.com or call 407.903.1150.

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/
Check out my book:
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!

Disney World & The Florida Mall for Souvenirs!

The Most Miserly Mom wants to talk more about Holiday shopping! In fact, I need to stop blogging and head out to do my own shopping! :-)

I am going to The Disney Village Marketplace today to wander around with my family and enjoy the sights. I have written a couple of times about Disney Village Marketplace - and I will post again after today to see if I have anything new to say.

Anyway, I wanted to mention again to my readers that you can find Disney discounts at The Florida Mall at The Disney Store. They have great bargains there, and you can combine the rest of your holiday shopping as well!

Happy Holidays and Happy Shopping!

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/
Check out my book:
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!

Disney Discount Souvenirs!

The Most Miserly Mom knows where to find discounts on Disney souvenirs!

If you are visiting Orlando and Disney World this weekend and would like to find bargain prices, head to International Drive for the best prices ever!

Holiday Shopping is upon us, and The Most Miserly Mom know how to combine Disney & shopping!

The best prices can be found at the "Everything is 1.99 or Less Stores" on International Drive. There two of these stores & they both have the same owners. They truly have everything priced at $1.99 and under, and they truly have every type of discounted souvenir an Orlando tourist could want.

First of all they have Mickey coffee mugs, and pins and stickers and chalk and diaries and napkins and notepads and floaties and alarm clocks and furry pencils and giant pencils and fanny packs and those water mister bottles that we love when it is so hot outside. And plastic plates and t-shirts and caps and socks and bibs and sippy cups and picture frames and kaleidoscopes and lip gloss and key chains and well, as The Miserly Mom said, every type of discounted souvenir you could want.

And it isn't just Mickey merchandise. You can find Tinker Bell and Minney and Pooh and Goofy and Pluto and all of your favorite Disney characters. You can even find Nickelodeon characters too! This is truly the place to buy your souvenirs for the entire family!

Happy Holiday and Happy Shopping!

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/
Check out my book:
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!

Holiday Shopping at Disney!

As Black Friday descends upon us, The Most Miserly Mom knows that the most festive place for Holiday shopping is at Disney World! Who can resist all the trinkets and treasures and glorious treats within the gates of the Magic Kingdom?

No one enjoys the shops at Disney World more than The Most Miserly Mom! I love Mickeys and Minnies and especially Tinker Bells and tshirts and crystal and baubels and gadgets and especially delectible desserts! I am Miserly, however, so I must search for the bargains!

If you are wandering through the various gift shops of Epcot or MGM studios or The Magic Kingdom this Holiday Weekend, make sure you find the bargain stores. Each park has a store that offers items for $10 or less! There you can find those special Disney items at a discount and still enjoy your Disney shopping.

Enjoy your Disney World weekend!

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/

Check out my book:
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!

Disney World Parades!

The Most Miserly Mom loves a Parade! Who doesn't? Luckily Disney World and Universal Studios give us a plethora of parades!

Remember when you were little and you would wake up on Thanksgiving morning and watch the Macy's Day Parade while your mom cooked up Thanksgiving Dinner? In your pajammas the t.v. glowed as the smells of juicy turkey wafted through to the living room.

The folks at Disney and Universal clearly know how fondly we remember these parades, so they have created parades to remember at their theme parks.

Universal has an awesome Macy's Day Parade, and of course Disney has, as I mentioned before, a plethora of parades at MGM studios, Epcot, and The Magic Kingdom. They even have a parade that will be televised on ABC. For more information about that, check out this web site:

http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/wdw/parks/specialEvents?id=ABCChristmasParadeSpecialEventPage

Happy Thanksgiving! Enjoy your turkey and Enjoy your parade!

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site:

http://www.cheaporlando.net/ Check out my book:
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!

Thanks for Disney World at the Holildays!

The Most Miserly Mom doesn't just think about Disney World, Sea World, Orlando, and Universal Studios all of the time! Just like many of you, I get nostalgic around Thanksgiving time, thinking about all of the Holidays that have passed, family, friends, great times, great food, and even snow.

Luckily, I still have my parents, a wonderful husband, two glorious children, and a gazillion more reasons to say Thank You at Thanksgiving.

Writing my book about Disney World and Orlando has given me the opportunity to enjoy so much - I can even enjoy snow like I did as a child in Connecticut.

The Gaylord Palms, Magic Kingdom's Main Street, Disney's Celebration, and many more areas offer "snow" for holiday enjoyment. My own children have only seen real snow a couple of times, so it's a joy taking them to Disney World or Sea World to enjoy a winter wonderland, even if it is a simulacrum of snowy surroundings.

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone from The Most Miserly Mom in Orlando!

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/
Check out my book:
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!

Orlando & Disney: Thanksgiving Travel Tips!

The Most Miserly Mom knows that millions of people are traveling during Thanksgiving, and many of those wll be coming to sunny Florida to visit Orlando, Disney World, Universal Studios, Sea World, and the beaches. While I have thousands of travel & money saving tips in my book, I want to remind you of some travel tips to help you in the next few days.

1. If you are driving to Florida, allow extra time. Be sure to allow extra time for unexpected traffic or other factors beyond your control that could reduce your average travel speed, such as road work or poor weather conditions.

2. If at all possible leave earlier than most people and stay later as well. Avoid traveling during peak traffic times. Remember that even in the Disney/Orlando area there will be last minute shoppers on the road, evening rush hour and Floridians leaving here to visit relatives elsewhere! The roads will be packed. Try not to be on the highways here between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Wednesday evening.

3. Did you know that AAA has a Fuel Price Finder? Just go to www.aaa.com to find the cheapest gas for your road trip or for the cheapest gas once you arrive in the Orlando area.

4. Always arrive early at the airports, always check your flights for delays, and try to carry on luggage if you can instead of checking it.

5. Use an online check in service if you can. You can get boarding passes and everything on many airlines these days, and not even have to stop at the ticketing counter at all!.

6. Log onto www.tsa.gov for the latest information concerning prohibited carry-on items. Recently I forgot about this, and I ended up throwing away perfume, make-up, deodorant, etc. That can be costly, and This Miserly Mom does not like that!

7. If you are traveling with your children or even for yourself, bring snacks, bring games, bring books, and most of all bring a sense of humor and your patience.

It is Thanksgiving after all!
Happy Holidays from The Most Miserly Mom!

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/
Check out my book:
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!

Golf in Orlando Florida: Holiday Hotel Package!

The Most Miserly Mom found an awesome deal for those who love golf, luxury, sunshine, Orlando & Disney World!

One of the newest resorts in Orlando, The Rosen Shingle Creek, is offering magnificent holiday rates! Not only can you visit Floriday, golf your socks off, and take your family to Disney World, you can do it luxuriously and get a deal! The Most Miserly Mom likes that!

The package offers guests luxurious accommodations, as well as a host of other resort “gifts,” for a special rate of just $99 per night, double occupancy. The package is offered Dec. 17 – 27, 2006, based on availability. Tax and gratuity are not included.

This package is called the "Shingle Bells Holiday Package,* (to get you in the Holiday Spirit!)and also includes:

Luxury accommodations (among the largest guestrooms in Central Florida at 436 sq. ft.)
* Breakfast buffet for two adults at Café Osceola
* 25% off a decadent holiday buffet (reservation required)
* 30% off spa services at the Spa at Shingle Creek
* Two-for-one golf at the award-winning Shingle Creek Golf Club (cart fee not included)
* Complimentary shuttle and discounted tickets to Sea World and Universal Orlando
* Free self-parking
* Guests can also book a golf lesson for two with the Brad Brewer Golf Academy for a special $99 rate.

For more information on the Rosen Shingle Creek Resort, check out their web site:

www.rosenshinglecreek.com

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/
Check out my book:

A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!

Universal Studios: Holiday Savings!

The Most Miserly Mom loves it when the theme parks have discounts on their tickets! Who doesn’t, right?

Universal Studios is offering a special right now if you purchase an annual pass to their theme parks Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. If you purchase their annual pass right now they are offering an additional 3 months for free! The Most Miserly Mom thinks this is awesome!

Visitors can enjoy the Holidays at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure now and even come back in the summer and next year (and any time in between for that matter!) You can enjoy the Macy’s Day Parade, The Grinch, and all the mystical fantasy of Universal Studios as many times as you want for 15 months!

And Universal Studios lets you pay for your passes on a monthly basis. So you can pay @$15 a month instead of shelling out tons of cash. Yes, The Most Miserly Mom loves deals like this.

For more information on this special at Universal Studios check out their web site:
http://www.universalorlando.com/holidays/index.html.

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/

Check out my book:
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!

Sample of my new WDW menu book now online

I've created a PDF sample of my new book, the Unofficial Dining Guide to Walt Disney World 2007, so that you can see how this book looks and how effective those indexes are when you're sitting there, hungry in a park with no idea what to eat or where.

http://www.ultimateorlando.com/books/MK_Sample.pdf

The prices are current as of now, but this PDF is just meant as a sample and they won't be updated in the pdf going forward, just in the "real" book.

To buy the book, visit this page on Amazon. It comes out in about two weeks.

Laugh Floor preview - one fan's perspective

John Frost at TheDisneyBlog got to visit a completely impromptu practice run of the Laugh Floor last week. This is the show which replaces the Timekeeper, and is themed after the comedy routine done by the one-eyeball Monster. At least I think it is. I didn't read John's musings, since I prefer to be fully surprised by what I see, the first time I see it. But many folks like this kind of spoiler, so I thought I'd link to it: http://www.thedisneyblog.com/

The show isn't in normal preview mode - he got a one-time deal there, I think.

Video of Osborne DANCING lights

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AQob62M2gtc



I found it interesting, and even neat to behold, but it lacks the rhythm and charm of the amateur effort seen elsewhere on youtube, such as http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TD4g0gmQSLk

Hopefully they'll revise this as time goes on. Maybe even get it right in future years.

Orlando & Disney World: Kids Can Travel!

The Most Miserly Mom knows that kids can travel too! In fact, most of my book advises travelers on how to save money while traveling with your children to visit Disney World, Sea World, Universal, and the Orlando area.

I always like to let my readers know about interesting & informative web sites, and The Most Miserly Mom has found a winner! www.KidsCanTravel.com is one such site.

www.KidsCanTravel.com assists readers in finding "kid friendly" destinations. This international site not only has articles and tips about Disney World (which The Most Miserly Mom honed in on) but on destinations throughout the entire world! Readers can find places for adventure & fun as well as safety and travel tips for their actual trip.

Check out this site for more information:
www.kidsCanTravel.com

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/
Check out my book:
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!

Christmas at Disney's Epcot!

The Most Miserly Mom will continue to have tons to write about Christmas in Orlando and Disney, but one of the things I am most looking forward to this year is the Candlelight Processional at Epcot Center.

Disney creastes such a beautiful, inspirational evening with music, lights and celebrity narrators. It's something this Miserly Mom looks forward to all year long. This year Epcot will welcome celbrities like Rita Moreno, Gary Sinise, Lou Diamond Phillips, Cuba Gooding Jr., and Kirk Cameron.

If you have ever loved a Candle Lighting Service at your hometown church during the Christmas Season then your eyes will light up during the Epcot Candlight Processional. It's an awesome sight an sound with over 30,000 choir singers and a 50-piece orchestra!

For more information about this Holiday event at Disney's Epcot, go to:
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/wdw/parks/specialEvents?id=HolidaysAroundTheWorldSpecialEventPage

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/
Check out my book:
A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!

Christmas at Disney’s MGM Studios: The Osborne Family Lights

The Most Miserly Mom definitely loves to ooh and aah over the Osborne lights at Christmas time, but this year Disney is making the light show even more spectacular!

The new name for Disney’s MGM light show extravaganza is: The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights. And not only are there millions of lights in various colors to dazzle your senses during the Holidays, Disney has added music and dimmers and actually choreographed the lights to the music.

This light show demonstrates clear Disney brilliance. The Most Miserly Mom knows that thousands and thousands of families will stroll the streets of Disney’s MGM Studios during the Holidays, gazing at snowflakes, listening to music, and enjoying the pure “spectacle of beauty” that this light display will offer during the holiday season.

The Osborne Spectacle of Dancing Lights will be displayed between November 13th and January 7th.

For more information about this event go to:
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/wdw/parks/specialEvents?id=OsborneLightsSpecialEventPage

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/
Check out my book: A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!

Soarin' Over Florida (fan film)

Here's a video assembled by a fan, using the Soarin' soundtrack and cutting together video of flight over Florida landmarks. Well-timed and well-done. Too bad it's not what we're really getting. That particular film hasn't been finished yet!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x86FXNPNXDc

No Grinchmas this year

The Orlando Sentinel confirms: No Grinchmas this year at Universal.

That's a shame on one level; everyone likes the holiday mood. But it opens even wider the door for Disney to "own" Christmas if they so desire. All they need to do is really dress up their parks. More than the Osborne Lights. Where's the Winter Wonderland? Only Disney has the budget to pull this off and make it seem great.

Book review: "Utopia"

My wife discovered this 2003 volume in our local library. At first, I was completely uninterested. A thriller set in a theme park, I thought, big deal. But Lincoln Child's novel engaged me when it came to the descriptions of the theme park. Wow, do I want this place to exist in real life. But best of all, Child seems to know all of the tenents that made Disneyland great: the emphasis on immersion and theme, the trillions of minute details that are not merely extra cost, and so on. I don't know if Child is a Disney fan, but I can tell you that Disney fans will be fans of Child, too.


Buy Utopia from Amazon.

Cypress Gardens for free

This is amazing: if you hold an annual pass to any theme park, that gets you FREE admission to Cypress Gardens through the end of 2006:

Buescher also announced a pass exchange program, in which passholders from other parks can experience Cypress Gardens at no charge. Between now and December 24th, 2006, guests can present any other theme park’s valid 2006 pass and receive free admission to Cypress Gardens. And just like the season pass; guests can take advantage of the opportunity as many times as they want. They will also receive a $10 discount off any of the 2007 Passport options.

I've delayed hitting this park, but will definitely go explore it now. And, doubtless, spend money on the food. And possibly buy a regular annual pass, if the experience is any good. So in my case, their gamble may pay off.

Sea World Orlando at the Holidays!

The Most Miserly Mom loves Sea World, and knows that mot families enjoy those dolphins, shamu, and the awesome roller coasters now offered, the wonderful kids area, and the absolute serenity of the theme park known as Sea World Orlando.

Sea World Orlando will kick off the holiday season with its Yuletide Celebrations at the Waterfront. From singing fountains to Jazz celebrations to Frosty sleepovers and of course visiting with Santa, Sea World Orlando has it all.

Take a look at this information I took from their web site:

Spend your holidays under the sea as you enjoy the sights and sounds of a SeaWorld Christmas dream. Our Waterfront is the perfect place to shop and dine – you'll even meet the jolly man himself, Santa Claus. Stay for the Christmastide holiday fountain show, and marvel as the sky fills with fireworks and flurries of snow.

Create a new holiday tradition for the whole family as you surround yourself with a Christmas celebration by the sea.

"Christmastide" Holiday Fountain Show - Nightly during the holidays, at The Waterfront.

Festivities at The Waterfront - Immerse yourself in a holiday celebration at The Waterfront. Carolers make a joyful noise while your little ones share their holiday wishes with Santa Claus. You can find that perfect gift at our incredible shops or grab a bite at our tastiest restaurants. And be sure to stay for the nightly snow flurries!

"Makahiki Christmas Luau" - Celebrate the ancient holiday traditions of the Pacific Islands with a bountiful feast and traditional music at the Makahiki Christmas Luau. Nightly, Nov. 24 - Dec. 31, 2006 (except Christmas Day). Advance reservations can be made by calling 1-800- 327-2424, or buy online. Park admission is not required.

Frosty Friends Sleepover - Gather the family and spend the night with animals from the chilliest environments on the planet, the Arctic and Antarctic! Make camp with the coolest little dudes in town at the Penguin Encounter. This overnight family adventure includes educational games and activities, a pizza snack and continental breakfast. Dec. 8, 7 p.m., $75 per person. Purchase online! Or call
1-866-4SW-CAMP

Baywave...Seaside Jazzfest - Dec. 26 through 30, enjoy a week-long celebration of jazz during SeaWorld's Baywave...Seaside Jazzfest featuring guitarist Ken Navarro (Dec. 26), a "Soulful Christmas" with Brian Culbertson, Bobby Caldwell, Warren Hill, Ray Parker Jr. and Eric Darius (Dec. 27 & 28), a "Peter White Christmas" with Rick Braun and Mindy Abair (Dec. 29 & 30).

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/

Check out my book: A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!

Disney World & Orlando: Cheap Car Rentals!

The Most Miserly Mom likes to help people save money on their Disney World Vacations, and one of the most frequent questions asked of me is "Should we rent a car in Orlando?" When you take your vacation to Disney World, Universal Studios, Sea World & Orlando, and you want to save money, then most likely you WILL rent a car. Yes, it is an added expense, but what you will save in the long run will be worth it! Here are the reasons why:

If you have a car you can easily stay at an economical hotel minutes from Disney and the other theme parks as opposed to staying on site at Disney and paying more money.

If you have a car you can easily drive to economical restaurants to feed your family instead of paying the astronomical prices at restaurants inside Disney, Universal or Sea World.

If you have a car you can easily head to International Drive to purchase discounted souvenirs as opposed to paying exhorbitant prices within Disney, Universal or Sea World.

The Most Miserly Mom wants to remind you of a few important points when renting a car in Orlando to save money:

Always ask for discounts! AAA, Motor Club discounts, coupons & anything you get your hands on will help with your car rental costs.

Steer away from purchasing any insurance with the car rental companies - Check with your own insurance company or credit card service to see if you are already covered.

Do not take an "upgrade" from the car rental company unless they are giving it to you for free.
Rent an economy car - Keep this expense as low as possible. You won't need anything more for zipping around Orlando to Disney, Universal, or Sea World.

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/ Check out my book: A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day

The Blue Man Group / How To Be A MegaStar Tour 2.0

Pre-Sale Details
Start: November 14 @ 10 am
End: January 5 @ 11:59 pm


Forget labels. You can't compare the Blue Man Group show to any other attraction around. It's a rock concert, heavy on percussion. A display of magic and illusion. A critique of modern technology and information overload. Put those together, mix with some cobalt blue paint and you've got some idea of what you're going to see.

With their How To Be A Megastar Tour 2.0, the trio send-up and embrace the rules, rituals and raw excitement of that most primal of group experiences: the arena rock concert.

After downloading a tongue and cheek "how-to-manual" broadcast for the audience, Blue Man Group is joined by an eight piece band and takes us through step-by-step and song-by-song, every head-bobbing, fist-pumping moment of a real concert. The result - a uniquely clever interactive show that, regardless of musical tastes, delivers hypnotic entertainment for all ages!

Show Date:
TD WaterHouse
Thursday, February 22, 2007 @ 7:30pm

The Nutcracker

Don't miss Orlando's only fully professional presentation of this beloved holiday classic. This enchanting rendition is brought to life by the skill and athleticism of the unparalleled Orlando Ballet. The Nutcracker will be danced to the full Tchaikovsky score performed LIVE by the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra and danced by the entire professional company including more than 100 children from the award-winning Orlando Ballet School and the Patel Conservatory.

The Nutcracker in Orlando
New Location!

Osceola Performing Arts Center
Thursday, December 14 - 7:30pm / Friday, December 15 - 7:30pm
Saturday, December 16 -7:30pm / Sunday, December 17 - 2:00pm

To Purchase Tickets Call Orlando Ballet Box Office: 407-426-1739 or Visit www.orlandoballet.org

Light up Mount Dora

Nov. 26
Downtown Mount Dora
5pm-9pm

Nearly two million lights will be turned on to celebrate the holiday season. The event includes food vendors, festivities for the kids and more. For more information, call 352-383-2165

Central Florida International Auto Show 2007

Nov. 22-26, 2006

More than 450 of the latest cars, trucks, minivans and sport/utility vehicles will roll into the Orange County Convention Center for the 2007-Model Central Florida International Auto Show. This special automotive event will allow attendees to check out all the newest vehicles in a non-selling environment and learn more about the increasingly popular “green” auto movement, including hybrids and alternative fuel vehicles. The show will also offer the public an up-close look at concept cars, crossover vehicles, sports cars and much more.

Show Times: Wednesday, November 22, noon – 10 p.m.
Thursday, November 23, noon – 10 p.m.
Friday, November 24, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Saturday, November 25, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Sunday, November 26, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

The Orange County Convention Center
West Concourse
9800 International Drive
Orlando, FL 32819

Tickets:
Admission to the event is $9 for adults, $4 for military, seniors and students with ID and $2 for children 7-12. Children 6 and under are admitted free with a paying adult. On College Two-Fer Day, Wednesday, November 22, college students with valid ID who purchase one student ticket will get a second student admission free with a second student ID. On Kids Day, Sunday, November 26, children 12 and under are admitted free with a paying adult. E-tickets can be purchased and discount coupons can be downloaded at: www.motortrendautoshows.com/orlando

Walt Disney World & Orlando Winter Savings!

The Most Miserly Mom receives a plethora of emails each day regarding Disney World, Orlando, Universal, Sea World, and travel specials. I must tell you that at this time I am receiving even more information about airline savings on flights to Florida and Orlando in particular.

All of the major travel web sites are advertising special rates to Orlando. www.Cheaptickets.com, www.Hotwire.com, www.Expedia.com, as well as www.Airtranairways.com, www.Jetblue.com.

The Most Miserly Mom also found an awesome package deal to Orlando for $169.00 per person plus airfare for 3 nights in Orlando with Disney tickets included. Check out this web site:
http://www.fairfieldgetaways.com/Offers/Specific.asp?Preview=True&Package=1510&gcid=c11287x047-deal&ST=3.

Also keep in mind that we are in value season for traveling to Disney World and Orlando. Except for Thanksgiving and Christmas week, you can find a mountain of savings when booking hotels, airfare, and cars down here!

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/
Check out my book: A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day

Arabian Nights Dinner Theatre

NOv. 13- Jan. 7, 2007

Arabian Nights in Orlando presents their annual Holiday Show, full of the “most wonderful things” you have ever seen and heard! Acrobatic elves, dancing reindeer, sugar plum fairies, a disbelieving sultan, a determined princess with her genie, plus more magic than you can shake wand at. Put it all together and you have a holiday show with all the romance and excitement only Arabian Nights can bring to life.

The show is choreographed to the holiday music of Andy Williams, Hillary Duff, The Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Brenda Lee, Jimmy Buffett, Little Texas, Lone Star, The Philadelphia Symphony Orchestra and many more.

Call 800-553-6116 or visit www.arabian-nights.com for details and showtimes.

The Holley Follies!

Nov. 11-Dec. 31
Join Super Star Chris Holly’s Network TV Special. Chris and his Special Guests have a ball exploring Holiday Traditions Around The World and Here At Home! After a few minutes, you’ll forget they are marionettes!

The theater is in the Colonial Promenade Shopping Center at 525 S. Semoran Blvd., Winter Park.
Tickets: adults $9; children ages 2-12 $8, children under 2 are admitted free.
For more information and the latest showtimes call 407-677-8831, or visit www.pinocchios.net

Breakfast with Santa!

Saturday, December 16, 2006
Join us this holiday season and enjoy breakfast with Santa at the Central Florida Zoo! There will be lots of fun holiday cheer and activites for the whole family. Share your holiday wishes with Santa and enjoy up-close animal encounters. After breakfast everyone can enjoy creating a special animal enrichment and join the Zoo Keepers to watch as the animals receive their special holiday gifts. Be Sure to bring your camera for that special holiday picture of your family with Santa. The Zoofari Outpost Gift Shop will offer a special 20% discount to all of Santa's guests for holiday shopping.
Members: $12.00 for adults, $7.00 for children ages 3-12 years.
Non-Members: $15.00 for adults and $10.00 for children. All Children age 2 and under are free. Event includes admission to the Zoo. Program begins at 8am. Registration and payment are required by Saturday, December 2, 2006. For more information and reservations, call 407-323-4450, ext. 123 or email education@centralflordiazoo.org. Space is limited.

Celebration's Snowing Nightly

Nov. 24-Dec. 31, 2006
The day after Thanksgiving is known as one of the busiest shopping days of the year. But in Celebration, the day marks another tradition - the beginning of Celebration's Nightly Snowfall down MARKET STREET. The snow begins at 6:00pm, 7:00pm, 8:00pm and 9:00pm for ten minutes and repeats every night until New Year's Eve. This year, the month-long festival will be packed with holiday essentials, including photos with Santa, holiday carolers and the Celebration Express train ride. Celebration's Market Street; Free Celebration, 407-566-2200; www.celebrationfl.com

Holidays Around the World

Nov. 24-Dec. 30, 2006
Celebrate the holiday season with characters, legends and lore from around the globe. Delight in wondrous tales and customs while experiencing the traditions of Walt Disney World Resort, including the breathtaking Candlelight Processional with its 50-piece orchestra. You can also watch a special holiday-themed finale to the dazzling IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth. Walt Disney's EPCOT Center. Lake Buena Vista, 407-824-4321; www.disneyworld.com

Christmas Wonderland at Cypress Gardens

Nov. 24-Dec. 30, 2006
Christmas Holiday celebration will start with a special "Tree Lighting" ceremony. Some of the activities will include a train ride on the "Wonderland Express", Santa Claus, and strolling carolers. There will be a series of Christmas concerts and much more. Cypress Gardens Adventure Park 6000 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven, Fl. 33884; 863-324-2111' www.cypressgardens.com

25th Annual Osceola Crafter's Holiday Gift Gallery

Nov. 24-Dec. 20, 2006
Choose from the largest selection of handcrafted gifts in Osceola County. The perfect holiday gift is waiting for you. Osceola Center for the Arts; Free; 2411 E Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy; Kissimmee, Fl. 34744; 407-846-6257; www.ocfta.com

14th Annual Festival of Lights at Silver Springs

Nov. 24-25, 2006
The Festival of Lights will feature more than a million twinkling lights and dozens of neon displays from dusk to 8:30pm. Nightly activities will include local choirs singing songs of the season, strolling carolers, lighted boat parade and Santa Claus through December 24. Silver Springs Nature's Theme Park. 5656 E Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs, Fl. 34488: 352-236-2121; www.silversprings.com

Festival of Trees

Nov. 11-19
The Orlando Museum of Art’s Council of 101 hosts the 20th annual Festival of Trees at OMA, 2416 N. Mills Ave., Orlando, when the museum complex is transformed into a glittering holiday wonderland, featuring a collection of large, decorated trees, holiday vignettes and gingerbread creations that are available for purchase. Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost: $10, adults; $6, children; $3, parking. For more information, call (407) 672-3838 or visit www.councilof101.net

Taste of Celebration

Nov. 11
Celebration’s Market Street hosts its annual Taste of Celebration, a family event focused on the town’s anniversary and Founders’ Day that includes live music and good food. Time: 6:30-10:30 p.m. For more information, call (407) 566-2200 or visit Awww.celebration.fl.us

Home & Family Show

Nov. 10-12
The Orange County Convention Center, 9800 International Drive, Orlando, hosts the USA Home & Family Show, including home products and decorations, all-terrain vehicles, hurricane products, accessories, lawn and garden items, food, wine and more. Time: Friday from 3-8 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m.-8 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Cost: $8, adults; $5, seniors; free for children 16-younger; with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the Children’s Cancer Center. For more information, call (888) 242-7469 or visit www.usahomeandfamilyshow.com

Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party

Starts Nov. 13, 2006
Enjoy Christmas at Disney with snow on Main Street USA, character greetings throughout the park, live stage shows and holiday entertainment. Walt Disney's Magic Kingdom Park Separate admission: Lake Buena Vista 407-934-7639 or visit
www.disneyworld.com

Holiday Shoppes to Offer Southern Cuisine and Unique Gifts in Ponte Verde Beach

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. (Nov. 8) – Scott Peacock, one of America’s premier chefs, will offer fabulous tastes of the South as part of the annual Holiday Shoppes to be held November 15-18 at the Sawgrass Marriott Resort and Spa in Ponte Vedra Beach. Featuring more than 30 creative and unique shopping boutiques, this event provides a festive way to begin the holiday season in one of Florida’s most famous resort towns.

Chef Peacock, from Atlanta’s Watershed Restaurant, will present a Gift of Southern Cooking Preview Gala featuring his favorite dishes on Wednesday, November 15, from 6-9 p.m. Tickets are still available for this opportunity to be among the first to view the Shoppes, while enjoying the UNF Jazz Band and delectable Southern cuisine.

On Friday, November 17, from 10-11:30 a.m., Chef Peacock will present Southern Samplings, a cooking demonstration that will enable attendees to duplicate his award-winning Southern culinary creations. Sip champagne while listening to local pianist Gene Nordan before sitting down for a fabulous Southern brunch. Afterwards, Chef Peacock will be available to sign copies of his book, A Gift of Southern Cooking.

The ever popular Holiday Shoppes will be open to the public on Thursday, November 16, from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Friday from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.; and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission to the Shoppes is $5.

Tickets for Chef Peacock’s Gift of Southern Cooking Preview Gala are $85. Admission to his Southern Samplings lecture is $50. All of the events take place at the Sawgrass Marriott Resort and Spa located at 1000 PGA Boulevard in Ponte Vedra Beach. For more information, call 904.2802.0614 or go to www.ccpvb.org or for St. Augustine Hotels Click Here.

Gtmnerr Photography Workshop

Saturday and Sunday: November 11 & 12
Learn about composition, lighting, digital workflow, and the challenges of photographing nature at this two-day workshop lead by nature photographer and photojournalist Terry Brown. The two day workshop will feature hands-on photo excursions into the Reserve, including a sunrise session on the beach. The cost to participate is $99 per person and space is limited to 10 participants. The workshop takes place at the GTM Reserve from noon to dusk on Saturday and sunrise to noon on Sunday. GTMNERR is located 8 miles north of Vilano Beach at 505 Guana River Road in Ponte Vedra Beach. For more information and reservations, call 904.823.4500.

United Way Fall Arts & Crafts Show

Saturday and Sunday: November 11 & 12
Enjoy a wide range of arts & crafts created by artists and crafters from all over Florida when the St. Johns County United Way presents its Fall Arts & Crafts Show at Francis Field in St. Augustine, located behind the Visitors Information Center on Castillo Drive, The Show will be open both days from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free. For more information call 904.829.9721. St. Augustine Hotels.

Birds, Botany and Breakfast Walk

Saturday: November 11
Join the Friends of GTM Reserve and birding experts Linda and Jerry Harrison for a “Birds, Botany and Breakfast” nature walk. The walk will begin at 8 a.m. at the Guana River Dam Trailhead located off A1A at Guana River Road. Come walk along the GTM Reserve’s hiking trail and look for birds, plants, and other interesting wildlife. The walk will take about 2 hours, cover about 1 ½ miles and will be followed by coffee, orange juice and donuts. Bring binoculars if you have them. The cost is $10 per person for the guided walk and continental breakfast ($5 for Friends of GTMNERR members). Make reservations by calling the GTM Reserve at (904) 823-4500, space is limited.

Veterans Day at the Castillo De San Marcos

Saturday: November 11
Be part of St. Johns County’s largest-ever Veterans Day celebration at the Castillo de San Marcos. The event begins at 11 a.m. with a “Massing of the Colors” followed by a speech by Lt. Col. (ret.) Steven Murray of the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs. There will be equipment displays and exhibitions from 9:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. as well as living history presentations featuring American soldiers from the Revolutionary War through Desert Storm.. The Castillo de San Marcos is located on Avenida Menendez on St. Augustine’s bayfront.

Veterans Day at the LightHouse

Saturday: November 11
Take part in a stirring Veterans Day ceremony at the St. Augustine Lighthouse to honor those who have defended the Nation. The ceremony gets underway at 5:30 p.m. with the presentation of the flag by the 169th Color Guard Team. The featured speaker will be Captain Dan Hill, U.S. Army (ret.), the recipient of numerous decorations for gallantry including the Silver Star, five Bronze Stars and the Purple Heart. In addition, the Lighthouse will honor Maj. Gus Nordstrum, U.S. Marine Corps (ret.) and Col. Howard McGillin Sr., U.S. Army (ret). Refreshments will be served. Admission to the event is free, but reservations are required. To reserve your place at this special event, call Paul Wenglowsky at 829.0745.

Precious Objects Exhibition

Friday: November 10
Enjoy this exhibition of unique whimsical gifts, jewelry, small sculptures, and hand-blown glass. This exhibition, which runs through December 20, features items selected from myriad studios on the First Coast to provide one-of-a-kind, one-stop cultural shopping The Cultural Center at Ponte Vedra Beach is located at 50 Executive Way, Ponte Vedra Beach. Admission is free. The CCPVB is open Monday-Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information call 904.280.0614 or visit www.ccpvb.org. For St. Augustine Hotels Click Here.

Veterans Day Concert

Friday: November 10
Get in step with the weekend’s salute to veterans with a special concert by the 13th Army National Guard Band. This Friday evening presentation gets underway at 5:30 p.m. in St. Augustine’s Plaza de la Constitucion. Admission is free.

Grammy Winner Jeff Coffin In Concert

Friday: November 10
Saxophonist Jeff Coffin, a Grammy Award-winning member of Beta Fleck and the Flecktones, will appear in concert at 7 p.m. in the Lightner Museum’s Café Alcazar on Granada Street, St. Augustine. A master of a wide range of musical “styles,” Coffin has performed with such diverse artists as The Dave Matthews Band, Branford Marsalis, Garth Brooks, Van Morrison, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and The Wailers. Tickets are $20 and are available at Music Matters, Cafe Eleven, Art Advocate, and Turtle's Music. All proceeds benefit the St. John’s Cultural Council. For more information, call 501-0826.

St. Johns County Fair Returns

ST. AUGUSTINE, (Nov. 7) – One of Florida’s oldest counties will celebrate its rich agricultural heritage when the St. Johns County Fair returns to the fairgrounds November 14-19. As always, a dazzling midway filled with great rides, food and entertainment will add to the excitement of the livestock judging and exhibits.

The fair with its great carnival midway opens at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, November 14 with entertainment provided by the Adam D. Tucker Band at 6 p.m. with encore performances at the same time on Wednesday and Thursday. Basic Rock Outfit will provide the entertainment at 5 p.m. on both Friday and Saturday. Highway 101 will perform in concert on Friday at 8 p.m.

Sure to thrill horse lovers, the Black Arabian Liberty Show and Caesar the miniature trick horse will entertain at 5 p.m. on Thursday and again at noon on Sunday.

On Saturday, November 18, the fair opens at 10 a.m. and the day’s events include the 4H goat show, the Southwood Elementary Honor Chorus, the Glastara Irish Dancers at 1 p.m., singer/songwriter Caitlin Eadie at 3 p.m.; and the Pedro Menendez High School band and Remax 100 hot air balloon rides at 4 p.m.. The fair’s headliners, Deep South take the stage at 8 p.m.

Sunday’s events include the 4H dog show at 11 a.m.; an appearance by Miss St. Augustine at 1 p.m.; the bull riding rodeo at 2 p.m.; along with entertainment by Paper Cutt at 3 p.m. and Christian alternative band Opportunity Knox at 7 p.m.

A $15 ticket provides unlimited rides along the carnival midway on Tuesday through Friday and on Sunday. On Saturday, fifteen hours of carnival rides can be enjoyed for only $20. Each day, helicopter rides will be available for $10 per person.

St. Johns County Fairgrounds are located on SR 207 in Elkton, just seven miles west of I-95’s exit 311. Fair hours are 5-11 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday; 4 p.m. – 1 a.m. on Friday, 10 a.m. – 1 a.m. on Saturday; and noon – 9 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is $7 adults and $4 for students and seniors 65 and over. Children under six are admitted free. Admission is free on Sunday with a church bulletin and on Saturday, a library card is good for a $2 discount. For more information, call 904.810.4244 or go to www.StJohnsFair.com.

Orlando & Disney Dinner Shows

The Most Miserly Mom enjoys the multitude of dinner shows that are offered at Disney World and in the Orlando area. From Arabian stallions to pirates to ho-downs, everything you can imagine is offered in this theme park paradise.

During the holidays the Pirates Dinner theatre celebrates the season with a new holiday version of its buccaneer story. For Christmas, the tale centers on an elf who wants to be a pirate. He is then called upon to save a kidnapped princess, all told in Pirate’s theater, which features a replica of a Spanish galleon surrounded by icebergs.

With seasonal sights outside the show ranging from photos with Santa to a Nativity with live animals, Pirate’s Christmas Dinner Adventure runs Nov. 25 to Jan. 6.

Check out my book to find out how to get discounts at this dinner show and many others!

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/
Check out my book: A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day

Disney Cruise Line: Florida Resident Rates!

The Most Miserly Mom loves to cruise! And what better way to cruise than to cruise on a Disney Cruise ship! Normally the rates are quite high, but right now Disney Cruise Lines is offering Florida Resident Savings.

The rates start at $349 per person for a 3-night cruise to the Bahammas. Not only can you enjoy the beauty of the Bahammas, but you can do it Disney Style. Disney Cruise Lines has an awesome children's program, excellent food, tons of activities, and of course those Disney Characters and that Disney flair that excites us Disney fanatics.

You need to ask for this booking code: FLR

To book your reservation or find out more you can call 1-800-230-4258, or access this web site:
http://disneycruise.disney.go.com/dcl/en_US/reserve/reservation.

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/
Check out my book: A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day!

Walt Disney World Resort Savings!

The Most Miserly Mom loves it when Disney announces savings at their resorts! I know how much families enjoy actually staying at Walt Disney World, and when deals come out like this it makes it possible to stay at Disney and really have a budget too!

The rates start at $59 per night plus taxes.

Disney is offering this special rate to annual Passholders. The rate is available most nights between November 1 through January 11th and January 15th through February 14th. (The holiday periods are excluded of course)

To book this great rate call 407.560.7277. You must mention booking code FCE when you call. You can also go to this web site:
https://secure.disney.go.com/wdw/passholder/passholdersGate?s=o&appRedirect=%2Fwdw%2Fpassholder%2FofferDetail%3Fid%3DPassSOQ2Season07ResortOfferDetailPage%26CMP%3DEMC-AP112006ResortOffer

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/
Check out my book: A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day

Epcot Center during the Holidays!

The Most Miserly Mom loves the Holidays at Disney's Epcot. The lights, music, shows, and decorations thrill my senses each year. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa, there is something for everyone.

This year Epcot presents Holidays Around The World, from Nov. 24 to Dec. 30. Traditions are brought to life in the World Showcase with appearances and storytelling by Pere Noel in France, La Befana in Italy, Los Tres Reyes Magos in Mexico and other legendary figures. Hanukkah and Kwanzaa customs are on display as well.

Another highlight is the Candlelight Processional. The nightly event features an orchestra, choir and celebrity narrator who retells the story of Christmas. Celebrity narrators this year include Cuba Gooding Jr., Kirk Cameron and Rita Moreno. The Candlelight Processional runs from Nov. 24 to Dec. 30 and is included with Epcot admission.

For more information about Epcot during the Holidays go to:
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/wdw/parks/specialEvents?id=HolidaysAroundTheWorldSpecialEventPage

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/
Check out my book: A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day

"Tarzan Rocks" banners still around

Looks like they need to order new banners at Nemo The Musical. Tarzan Rocks is gone and won't be coming back. At least, as Rebekah noticed, they are faced "inward" and those on the path beyond won't notice unless they join the line.

Sea World Anytime

I haven't been to SeaWorld in some while now, so I didn't notice this program until now, though it's been around since summer. From the SeaWorld website:

The SeaWorld Anytime offers the freedom and flexibility to come and go on your schedule at no extra charge; you can visit in the morning, hit the pool in the afternoon and come back tomorrow, or anytime during your stay! Vacation is your time. Make the most of it with a SeaWorld Anytime*. (*Valid six consecutive days from first visit.)

If there are no hidden strings, this appears to be a tremendous deal. If you are visiting Orlando and purchase just a one-day SeaWorld ticket, you can visit over and over (and over!), for as long or short as you want, almost up to a week. Is there any reason not to take them up on this offer?

(Well, I guess parking would have to be paid each time... but that's probably worth it)

Disney's Animal Kingdom: Finding Nemo

The Most Miserly Mom knows that most children in this day and age have enjoyed Walt Disney's "Finding Nemo" movie. Disney's films entrance children of any age (even The Most Miserly Mom's childlike heart).

Well, Disney is offering a sneak peak of their "Finding Nemo" attraction at Animal Kingdom. Between December 1-10 Disney offers Annual passholders and Seasonal passholders a preview of the "Finding Nemo" show. Disney is not even publishing the show times in the park guides - that's how special they want passholders to feel at Animal Kingdom!

For more information about the "Finding Nemo" passholder preview go to: http://vacation.disneyworld.com/PS!iuY7J6Hbv8YFBgIAAAAGCgFICggzNzM3NzcyMAoKMjU0MjEwOTc2MQkABtXGCgkxNTk3NTY2ODYF?CAMP_CODE=CM0000002644&HOUSEHOLD_ID=130854337&email_addr=krose3%40cfl.rr.com

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/ Check out my book: A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day

Flash photo comparison

Digital cameras have changed life. Or, at least, changed the way vacation memories are captured.

Here's a flash photo of the new Tomb Raiders display in Epcot:



...and here's how the same photo might look if you turn off the flash and manage to hold still long enough for the longer exposure to finish:

The Evil Blue Eye

I made a Turkish friend in Germany a few years ago. He parted ways with me by giving me two blue eye representations: one a small glass one to sit in my coinpurse (there's an old superstition that says this brings financial luck); and a second, much larger one to hang in my closet at home (another superstition says this wards away bad luck). There's something racist about the Blue Eye warding away bad luck, but what are you going to do. I thus found it odd to see these blue eyes for sale in the Turkey booth at Epcot's Food and Wine festival:

Rainforest Diver

No news here, just a discovery I made: they apparently send a diver to clean those cylindrical tanks at Rainforest Cafe. Neat!

Rope Drop at DAK

For some reason, they let me in through Rainforest Cafe before the crowds at the main turnstiles, so I got to see some uncluttered walkways.



There's a rope drop just in front of the Tree of Life, complete with some of the Fab 5 on a truck, and Mickey himself rising out of the treescape ahead. It's a scripted show, and cute. Then, a "first family" is selected to lead the crowd toward Africa, following the aforementioned truck. A nice way to start the day.

LMA Finale

These days, the finale jump in Lights, Motors, Action looks like this:



But I seem to remember much more of a fireball. In fact, it once looked like this:



Assuming this isn't just a case of unfortunate timing in the photos, what has changed? I have a guess. Wasn't there an injury or two in the past year? Could the toning down of the fire be a side-effect of those injuries? Did they tone down the show?

Problem with Fruit Cups

Here's a minor gripe about the fruit cups throughout the WDW resort, courtesy of my visitors from California: the darned things don't open without a pocketknife!

The Festival of Orchestras Welcomes the National Orchestra of Wales to Orlando

Orlando, FL - The world-renowned National Orchestra of Wales will bevisiting the Orlando area on Sunday, January 21, 2007 and will perform at the Bob Carr Performing Arts Center at 3 pm. Under the artistic direction of Thierry Fischer with Joan Kwuon on violin, the National Orchestra of Wales will perform Benjamin Britten, Four SeaInterludes from Peter Grimes, Max Bruch, Violin Concerto No. 1 in G minor,Op. 26, and Dmitri Shostakovich, Symphony No. 10 in minor, Op. 93. The National Orchestra of Wales continues to enjoy its special dual role as a national and a broadcasting orchestra, recognized not only for the qualityof its performances but also for its contribution to local Welsh communities. The Festival of Orchestras brings world-class symphony performances to Central Florida to enrich the community's international music culture forresidents and visitors alike. The Festival season includes performances from the Hamburg Symphony Orchestra, Atlanta Symphony and National Philharmonic of Russia.For more information or to purchase tickets contact the box-office at1-800-738-8188 or 407-539-0245 or visit the Festival website at www.festivaloforchestras.org .

Walt Disney's Town: Celebration

The Most Miserly Mom would like to tell you about Walt Disney's town: Celebration. The actual name of the town is, "Celebration," and it is a slice of Americana out of the past.

Surround yourself with old time charm in Disney's magical town of Celebration - especially at Christmas time! As only Disney can do, the season comes alive in this quaint town. During the holidays it actually snows in Celebration.

Enjoy hot chocolate, a snack, or a yummy dinner. Then stroll around the quaint streets and shop or browse and soack up the feeling of "the good ole days!"

Celebration lights up at the holidays, with decorations, Santa, snow and lots of feel good stuff surrounding you.

For more information on Disney's town of Celebration, go to http://www.celebrationfl.com/market_street/home.html

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/
Check out my book: A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day

Universal Studios: Free Tickets for Teachers!

The Most Miserly Mom is proud to announce that Universal Studios is offering Florida teachers a free two-park, one day pass!

This promotion was just announced today, November 1st, 2006 by Universal Studios.

The offer also includes the opportunity for teachers to purchase up to six discounted companion tickets for their friends and family.In order to take advantage of this program, state-certified Florida schoolteachers, can visit the Florida Education Foundation Web site by
going to this web site:
http://www.floridaeducationfoundation.org/ to fill out a form to register and download a free ticket voucher. A valid Florida teaching certificate is required.
Once they have completed the online application process, certified Florida teachers can print their 1-day 2-park ticket voucher, which can be redeemed at the front gate of either theme park, Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure.

After calling Universal Studios directly, The Most Miserly Mom found out that no other states are being offered this promotion.

And for Miserly Money Saving Tips visit my web site: http://www.cheaporlando.net/
Check out my book: A Mom's Miserly Guide: Orlando, Universal, & Disney on $25 a Day

Emma Concert Series-Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra

Sunday: November 5
Enjoy an exciting program featuring the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra’s 2006-07 season repertoire. JSO is one of the leading cultural organizations in the Southeast and one of Florida’s oldest continuously performing orchestras. Under the Direction of Fabio Mechetti, JSO will perform at the Flagler College Auditorium on Granada Street in St. Augustine at 2 pm. Tickets are $18. For more information call 904.797.2800.

22nd Annual Great Chowder Debate

Sunday: November 5
Looking for the best chowder on the east coast? Satisfy your passion for great seafood at the Conch House Marina’s celebrated annual Great Chowder Debate.
More than 30 area restaurants compete to see who has the best chowder. Participants are treated to an almost limitless variety – from local favorites like the Menorcan chowders to an assortment of New England chowders – made with clams, conch, lobster, scallops and crab and laced with secret concoctions of herbs and spices. The event starts at noon and runs throughout the day. All proceeds benefit the Shriners’ Hospitals for Children. The Conch House Marina is located at 57 Comares Avenue. For more Information call 904.829.8646.

British Garrison Weekend At The Castillo De San Marcos

Saturday and Sunday: November 4 & 5
Experience what the Castillo de San Marcos was like during the British military occupation of 1763-1784. Re-enactors and rangers will be dressed as British colonial soldiers as they provide historic weapon demonstrations, talks and displays. The Castillo de San Marcos is open 8:45 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. Admission is $6 adults, children 15 and under free. The Castillo de San Marcos is located on Avenida Menendez along St. Augustine’s Bayfront. For more information call 904.829.6506 ext. 233, or visit www.nps.gov/casa/.

A1A National Scenic ByWay Dedication Celebration

Saturday: November 4
Come learn about and celebrate seemingly endless recreational activities found along 72-miles of coastal northeast Florida during the dedication celebration of the A1A National Scenic Byway. A ribbon cutting, distinguished speakers, food, entertainment, giveaways, and fundraising sales to benefit the scenic highway are all part of planned activities. The fun takes place 10 a.m to 2 p.m. at the Marineland Oceanfront Park just south of Matanzas Inlet. For more information visit: www.scenicA1A.org.

Tale of Two Cities History Club Presentation

Saturday: November 4
Join the local History Club in the Ancient City to share in stories about our local history. Co-Sponsored by the Saint Augustine Historical Society, presentations include a talk by Ray Osborne about local Maritime history and his story of the presidential visit of Grover Cleveland in 1888; a talk by Jay Humphreys about U-Boat activity off of Florida’s eastern seaboard and noted author Karen Harvey will give a talk entitled “The changing perceptions of a history in a tourist town”. Other topics of discussion include but not limited to; history of Port Canaveral, 1700’s, the Gilded Age, Spanish Military history and Henry Flagler’s historic hotels. The presentations take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Page Edwards Gallery of St Augustine Historical Society, 271 Charlotte Street in St Augustine. For more information call 904.824.2872
or for St. Augustine Hotels

5th Annual St. Augustine Car Cruisers Car, Truck and Motorcycle Show

Saturday: November 4
Rev up your day at the 5th Annual Car Cruisers Car, Truck & Motorcycle Show at the St. Johns County Fairgrounds. Not only can you see all years, makes and models of vehicles there will be live entertainment, games, music, food and more. Vehicle registration starts at 8 a.m. and all vehicles will be available for viewing till 4 p.m. There is a $20 registration fee. Spectators are free. For more information call 904.823.9092 or 904.669.2321 or visit www.staugustinecruisers.com.

5th Annual Ponte Vedra Beach Food and WineFest

Friday, Saturday and Sunday: November 3-5
Explore the food and wine scene of Ponte Vedra while sampling the variety of culinary delights and wines available in the community. The Ponte Vedra Beach Food and Winefest kicks-off Friday evening with a 5-course dinner at the Sawgrass Marriott Resort & Spa. Chef Charles Charboneau has prepared an incredible menu that is complimented with a variety of featured wines. Then on Saturday afternoon, there will be a wine tasting presented by area wine distributors set to the live music of the University of North Florida Jazz Quartet. Then on Sunday, enjoy a sparkling wine brunch prepared by Chef Brett A. Smith. Each of eight courses of this meal is served with an appropriate sparkling wine or champagne. Each event will include brief seminars led by experts in the wine industry. All events take place at the Sawgrass Marriott Resort & Spa in Ponte Vedra Beach. Tickets for Friday’s dinner are $110. Tickets for the Saturday tasting are $40 in advance and $50 at the door, and the Sunday brunch tickets are $40. For more information call 904.285.2004 or visit www.pontevedrachamber.org.

26th Annual Lincolnville Festival

Friday, Saturday and Sunday: November 3-5
Celebrate St. Augustine’s rich African-American cultural heritage! Lincolnville is one of St. Augustine’s oldest neighborhoods with more than half of its buildings dating from the late 19th century black settlement. Funds raised from the festival will be used for exhibits at the Fort Mose Museum. The festival kicks-off on Friday with live R&B music, food, and arts and crafts. Then on Saturday, there will be narrated tours of historic Lincolnville depicting the civil rights movement sites in the area, live country/pop, jazz and dance music all day along with more arts and crafts and a “Soul Food Contest”. On Sunday from 2-4 p.m., the festival features an exciting performance by blues great Eddie Kirkland and special guest Willie Green followed by inspiring gospel music. The Lincolnville Festival is free and takes place on Granada and Washington Streets, Friday 5 to 10 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and 2 to 6 p.m. on Sunday. For more information call 904.827.6893 or for St. Augustine Hotels Click Here.

First Friday Art Walk

Friday: November 3
Join one of St. Augustine’s most popular cultural events on the first Friday of every month. Enjoy the latest exhibits, music, entertainment and refreshments at over 20 participating galleries. Tours begin at Rembrandtz Fine Gifts for Fun People, 131 King Street. Galleries are open from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. St. Augustine Sightseeing Trains and Old Town Trolleys offer attendees a complimentary shuttle service to most of the galleries. Shuttles run on a continuous loop every 30 minutes. For information call 904.829.0065 or visit www.staugustinegalleries.com.

Free Parking at Disney World?

The Most Miserly Mom regrets to say that Disney World does not offer free parking at The Magic Kingdom, Epcot, or Disney MGM Studios. You can, however, park at any of the Disney hotel resorts free of charge. Free parking is also offered at Disney's water parks - both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard beach offer free parking. The normal daily parking rate is $10. Disney does allow the parking pass to be used at multiple parks within the same day -- So if you plan on visiting more than one Disney park during one day you only have to pay once.

Universal Studios parking costs $10 per day - or you can park in a preferred spot (closer to the entrance) for $4 more. The Most Miserly Mom does not think the preferred parking is worth it though - almost all parking is convenient at Universal Studios. If you purchase a preferred annual pass $179.95 (which you can pay in monthly installments if you wish) parking is free of charge.

Sea World Orlando also charges $10 for parking and $15 for preferred parking.

Here is a Mom's Miserly Tip: Take a picture of your parking space with your digital camera or cell phone so that you can remember where you parked!