ACTION ACTION ACTION Theme Parks, other attractions and MUCH MUCH MORE

Create lifetime memories - discover, plan and experience the best of Central Florida

HavingA wonderful

Xmasin Orlando

12

Experience a 100 storythe RMS TITANIC

NEWReasons to visit

GREAT ADVICE6 TOP TIPSTo Beat the Queues

Islands of Adventure

Tour the home of Harry Potter in the world`s most advanced theme park

53

2740

24

Disney Fantasy Cruise ShipThe latest and largest of Disney`s expanding fleet

FEATURES06 Around the Parks

News of what’s been happening in those amazing theme parks

09 Test Track

Reopening with an eye on design. Test your skills before taking it to the track

12 Beat the Queues

Who likes waiting in line? 6 Top tips so you don’t have to

15 Indoor rollercoasters

Rock n Roller coaster v The Return of the Mummy v Space Mountain

16 Islands of Adventure

Take a tour of a park full of adventure, superheroes and a famous wizard

24 3 Never Done That Before

Three experiences in Orlando to try

27 Christmas in Orlando

Parties and more at the most wonderful time of the year

36 Titanic: The Experience

Richard King’s visits the museum exhibition of this 100 year old journey

40 12 New reasons

2012 gave even more reasons to visit, here’s a dozen of them

48 Fire & Water

Do you know the locations of our 8 photos. Win an Orca photo frame

53 Just for Kids

Phoebe’s day at Magic Kingdom, quiz and tip to meet your favourite friends

55 Our Top

Check out our favourite theme park rides, shows, rollercoasters and family fun

CONTENTS

TM&©

Take a tour around Universal’s

Islands of Adventure with us on

pages 16 - 23

Fantastic tips, advice and stories, all to make

sure you have the

best Florida holiday ever!

We try 3 exciting new experiences in ‘Never Done That Before’

Find more on page 48

WIN a SeaWorld

Orcapicture frame

Welcomelove Florida, especially the Orlando theme parks and attractions, I say love, my family and friends say obsessed. It’s true, since my first visit of December 28th 1997, I have been obsessed. Any excuse, every chance I had I would be in America. In 2003 I was lucky enough to purchase a vacation villa at Glenbrook on Hwy 27. Heaven, that meant visiting to do repairs, re-furnish,

check the length of the grass, any excuse!.

Why? Living in England, the weather is the obvious answer, the blue skies, the warmth and the smell but it so much more. The American

way, the space, the easy of driving and parking, the customer service and that’s all before stepping foot in a theme park.

Orlando is all about choice, so much to see and do it is impossible to fit it all in, not in one visit or ten. I wanted to help other visitors enjoy some of the things I was lucky enough to experience, show the little details, what not to miss, how to get the best out of your time and money.

After much soul searching, business plans and ideas, I finally realised that it had to be a magazine. With all the digital developments over the recent months it became clear that digital is the way to go. So here we are.

Each month we will alternate between

action, from theme parks and attractions to the essentials, accommodation, dining and the like. Our first issue is all action and Orlando at Christmas time is so special. We check out Harry Potter and the amazing Islands of Adventure, show you how to beat the queues, understand the 100 year story of The Titanic, 12 new reasons (or excuses) to visit and much more.

I must take this opportunity to say thank you to everyone who has supported me in getting this far, my parents, my friends, my family, with this the start of a wonderful journey.

Please get in touch, get involved, let us know how we are doing. Don’t forget to check in at our facebook page, say hello, submit a comment or photo. We would love to here from you. www.facebook.com/gofloridamag

We hope to play a small part in helping to create those lifetime memories, go ahead and please discover, plan and experience the best of Central Florida.

James King, Editor

Welcome

James King

EDITORIAL TEAM Editor: James King james.king@gofloridamag.com Art Editor: Vicky Nash vicky.nash@gofloridamag.com

DESIGN TEAM Design Editor: Paul Draper paul.draper@gofloridamag.com Head Designer: Carla da Cruz carla.da.cruz@gofloridamag.com

With thanks to Jen Foster

CONTRIBUTORS THIS ISSUE Peter King, Ryan Curtis, Susan King, Darren Tracy, Michael Krajewski

TO ADVERTISE IN THE MAGAZINE To advertise at very competitive rates please email: advertise@gofloridamag.com or call 01604 000 000

Sponsorship, editorials and

Ipad splash opportunities available

Next issue December 2012

Copyright© Go florida magazine GO florida magazine is the trading name of Sunshine Publishing Ltd company no: 08035971

Go florida magazine is not affiliated in anyway with any

companies featured in the magazine.

Follow us https://www.facebook.com/Gofloridamag

www.gofloridamag.com

I

The man who started it all with a mouse. His ideals and dreams are a joy and inspiration to all the World. Mr Walter Elias ‘Walt’ Disney, we thank you.

the ParksAround

Psst, oi muggle, over here, ‘want to know how to get to see Potter without having to wait in them damn blasted queues, you don’t need no magic wand neither!’Enter into Hogwarts, pass the lockers and on your left there’s a staircase and the magical ‘single rider’ line. Take this and follow quickly to the front, this is a journey you can really take on your own.

Harry Potter’s Forbidden Journey

SPECIAL TIP

Always arrange a ‘lost’ meeting point, ideally somewhere central but not too crowded.Tips

&Hints

PARK HOURS

Magic Kingdom DEC: 9AM – 7/8/9/10/11/12PM • JAN: 9AM – 8PM

Epcot DEC: 9AM – 9.30/10.30PM • JAN: 9AM – 9PM

Animal Kingdom DEC: 9AM – 7/8PM • JAN: 9AM – 5PM

Hollywood Studios DEC: 9AM – 8/10PM • JAN: 9AM – 7PM

Blizzard Beach DEC: 10AM – 5PM • JAN: CLOSED (from 6th Jan)

Typhoon Lagoon DEC: CLOSED • JAN: 6th onward

Islands of Adventure DEC: 9AM – 7/ 9/11PM

Universal Studios DEC: 9AM – 7/8/10PM

SeaWorld DEC: 9AM – 6/9/11PM

Aquatica DEC: 10AM – 5PM • JAN: 10AM – 5PM

Busch Gardens DEC: 9AM – 7/8/9/10/11/12PM • JAN: 9AM – 8PM

Wet & Wild DEC: 10AM – 5PM • JAN: 10AM – 5PM

Please note that these are a rough guide, times may vary on a daily basis. WARNING: Christmas to New Year is the busiest period and some parks may reach full capacity by midday. We recommend checking prior to visiting and where possible always arrive early.

REHABS

SPLASH MOUNTAIN Magic Kingdom CLOSED: January 2nd, 2012 OPENS: March 19th, 2013

TEST TRACK Epcot OPENING: December 6th, 2012

BLIZZARD BEACH CLOSED: January 6th, 2013 OPENS: March 17th, 2013

TYPHOON LAGOON CLOSED: December OPENS: January 6th, 2013

1 2 3 4

Pick up a park map at the entrance and check out any show times.

Remember where you parked, the parking lots are massive. Take a quick photo to remind you.

When leaving after Wishes, take the boat to the parking lot for a relaxing end to a hectic day. Beats cramming into a metal tube!

GRAB LUNCH WITH A DOLPHIN!

Easily missed but rumored to be Walt’s favourite ride, he brought it to Disneyland from the 1965

World’s Fair.

An audio-animatronic family rotates you through the ages, looking at how electricity and household appliances have

developed. All together now ‘it’s a great big beautiful tomorrow…’

Don’t miss feeding time at Seaworld...We all love Dolphins, they are our friends, so why not meet up for lunch. Down at Dolphin Cove, home to ten or more Atlantic bottlenose Dolphins, its feeding time.

At certain times throughout the day, there is the real opportunity for a close-up interaction with these friendly creatures. A calculated amount of lunch (fi sh) is available to buy for them. Each person paying $7 for a tray of 4-5 fi sh, is allowed into the feeding area to share their lunch with the excitable school of dolphins.

They are famous for their intelligence, so have to ‘bribe’ them for that perfect photo opportunity by dangling that fi sh in front of you, enticing them closer. You can then say hi and

give them a friendly rub of the chin before tossing their lunch into an expectant mouth Seaworld trainer watch over their ‘children’ from canoes and rocks advising the guests how to get the best interaction and telling off anyone who tries to pat them like a dog (the top of their head is quite sensitive) In Florida there are a number of opportunities for Dolphin interaction but this is relatively inexpensive way of getting a brief but memorable close-up experience, that we highly recommend.

Check out the information boards at the parks entrance or at Dolphin Cove for those important feeding times.

www.seaworld.com

Walt’s Carousel of Progress

at the Magic Kingdom

ZOOMS BACK FOCUSED ON

DESIGNBecome A Chevrolet Concept DesignerThe re-imagined Test Track presented by Chevrolet, had it’s grand re-opening this past December 6th. Gone is the crash dummy queuing area and replaced with a sleek, modern and interactive design centre.

Here you are invited to create your own custom concept vehicle using multiple choices and options of car design and performance. Good car design is centred around four important attributes, capacity, efficiency, responsiveness and power.

After customizing your vehicle, the details are encoded on to a card and off you go to the Test Track circuit. Strap yourself into the 6 person ‘Sim-vehicle’ and endure a series of tests to analylize all aspects of your design, ending with that 65 mph banked run.

The fun continues in the post show as you see how you and your vehicle did and experience other aspects of vehicle testing and marketing. Here you can

Test Track at Disney’s Epcot was always a must-do, now it’s a must, must-do. So get there early, get a fastpass and get up to speed with modern car design on Disney

World’s fastest ride.

Compare your results against the baseline

Simcar – and your fellow designers

Race your vehicle against other guests own

designs

Create a T.V. commercial starring your

virtual car

Green screen technology has you posing for

photos with amazing backdrops

Get behind the wheel of Chevrolets’ latest

models

✓

✓

✓

✓

✓

Universal Orlando recently announced that ‘The Battles Continues’ as Transformers:

The Ride 3D is coming to Universal Studios, opening

Summer 2013.

Join Optimus Prime and the Autobots in the battle to save mankind, come face-to-face with Megatron as you dodge attacks by the Deceptacon’s.

Already hugely successful in their Singapore and Hollywood Parks, Universal Orlando have

another big hit on the way.

www.prepareforbattle.com

Transformers on their way

he 7th and latest baby rhino born at Busch Gardens arrived on

Tuesday 23rd October. Mum, Kisiri gave birth to 140 pound Jasiri on the twenty six acre white rhino habitat, situated in the middle of the Serengeti plain, after the normal sixteen months of pregnancy.

Busch Gardens then asked their Facebook fans to name her, voting for their favourite from four choices. Each choice was based on their Swahili meaning, Bahati (luck or success), Jasari (brave & bold), Safiri

(traveller) and Saba (seven, 7th born).

Brave and bold was the winner and Jasiri will begin her life on the plain, bonding with her mother, as she grows by around 4 pounds every day until she becomes a fully grown adult at 3500 to 4000 pounds.

You can see Jasiri and the Crash (group) of 12 white rhino by taking the Serengeti Train. You get even closer on a Serengeti Safari (from $19). www.seaworldparks.com/buschgardens-tampa

Facebook Fans name her JasiriBusch Garden’s baby rhino is Brave & Bold

TGet a fastpass and it was generally good anytime after the start time but no more, Disney now want you to stick to the time printed on your pass.

Disney’s ‘reservation’ system for it’s park main attractions, called Fastpass, allows you an hour window to return to the ride for an express line, meaning little wait for your favourite rides.

We think it will be especially true for the blockbusters, Test Track, Soarin, Toy Story Mania and Rock n Roller coaster as they regularly ‘sell out’ of passes for the day.

Stricter Fastpass Times

IN BRIEF

Shortly after entering Magic

Kingdom’s Adventureland is a Aloha Isle, here you will find pineapple

dolewhip ice cream. For many a frequent visitor the dolewhip has become a rite of passage, a must-do, a I’m not at Disney til I’ve tasted that little piece of heaven. Ice cream or float?

We Recommend

The storyline at the end of Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s

Kilimanjaro Safari, featuring the race to save Little Red from

elephant poachers is no more. Gone are the sights and sounds of

gun fire, planes landing and poachers camp. It is now a far

more relaxing end to the two day safari tour (well about 20 minutes really) as a herd of zebras graze quietly in front of you. I liked the

‘action’ part of the ride and seeing little Red rescued although I

expect some will appreciate the gentler finish.

TIP: Take the Kilimanjaro Safari either first thing or just before sun

down as the animals are much more active.

Little Red has left the Safari!

Big day for Disney and guests - 6th December 2012

That Thursday will be a busy one as three new parks feature grand openings of new attractions. The major draw will of course be at the Magic Kingdom and a major phase of the Fantasyland expansion completed. Thrills seekers and dare I say, boys, will be heading over to Test Track at Epcot as it opens it doors to a new model of car designing and testing. Hollywood Studios gets in on the act too! as Pirates of the Caribbean – The legend of Jack Sparrow begins.

Space shuttle Atlantis completes it’s final journey

After one hundred and twenty six million miles, Atlantis last movement was a rather short ten mile trip from the Kennedy Space centre to the Visitor Center. The last historic journey on November 2nd saw the Orbiter docking at its final resting place, a $100 million (still under construction) facility. The as yet unnamed display is scheduled to open to the public in July 2013.

Celebrate the Magic

Is the name of the new Cinderalla Castle projection show. It’s debut came on November 13th and replaced The Magic, The memories and You. Some of the old show remains but with new visuals and audio. The castle is turned into an old video game for Disney’s

latest hit, ‘Wreck-It Ralph’, whilst much loved regulars Dumbo, Simba and Tinkerbell all appear. Take your place in front of the castle or along Main street for nightly showings at 7.45pm and 8.35pm.

Starbucks to open

Magic Kingdom’s Main Street bakery and Fountain View in Epcot closes in January to be converted in to the coffee houses of Starbucks. Scheduled to open next summer, we hope that they are able to keep some Disney magic amongst the lattes and frappes.

Price Increases at SeaWorld

For the second time in four months SeaWorld puts up it’s prices. A single day ticket is now $89, the same as Disney and Universal, whilst Annual passes increased a massive 25% to $119.99 from $89.98. The new exhib Antarctica: Empire of the Penguin could be the reason for the change as park historically increase their prices prior to a new headline attraction.

BE THERE AT LEAST 20 MINUTES BEFORE THE OPENING TIME

“ “

FASTPASS GIVES YOU AN HOUR LONG WINDOW TO RETURN IN, MEANING LESS

TIME WASTED HANGING AROUND

6 Top Tips...

BEAT THE QUEUES

GET THERE EARLY

Crowds build up throughout the day to a mid-afternoon peak so it really pays to get-up with the sunrise.

This should be less of a challenge in your first few days as you will still be on ‘UK time.’ You should aim to be at the main entrance at least 20 minutes before the advertised opening time.

Trust us, you will do more major rides in the first hour than in four later in the afternoon in peak season.

USE FASTPASS

Disney operate a free ‘reservation’ system on many of their major attractions called Fastpass, this gives access to a separate line which greatly reduces wait times.

This works by giving you an hour long window to return in. The ticketing area displays the current time slots being allocated in 5 minute intervals. You simply put in your park ticket in the machine and it returns it to you with your Fastpass. This slip has your return time on it, the ride name and importantly when you can get your next fastpass, usually in at least an hours time. You can then return anytime in your allocated time but strictly not before.

In peak season the major, major rides, like Soarin, Test Track and Toy Story Mania can issue all their fastpasses by lunchtime, so another reason to GET THERE EARLY.

MORE ADVICE ON THE NEXT PAGE

TAKE A BREAK

As the crowd and temperatures reach their afternoon peak, LEAVE! Yes leave, go back to room for a nap or a swim.

The temptation is to cram as much in a possible but taking a break is the best long term strategy. Hopefully you were able to GET THERE EARLY so you will want a nice rest, this allows everyone to recharge the batteries.

An alternative is to explore one of the amazing resort hotels, perhaps take in a meal or just to chill out in their grand lobbies. The Wilderness Lodge, Animal Kingdom and The Hard Rock are all experiences in themselves.

You can then return to the parks for some evening parades, fireworks or shows. If you have seen the fireworks then late is a great time to do ‘go on it again’ multiple rides.

CONSIDER SINGLE RIDER LINES

Many of Universal’s main attractions offer a separate line for single riders whilst only Test Track and Expedition Everest at Disney.

You WILL be split up from your party but these lines can save heaps of time. This is highly recommended for Harry Potter’s Forbidden Journey as it can literally save you hours and the ride experience is very individual in that you can’t see any other riders. The only downside is that you miss almost all of the amazing Hogwarts. The single rider line option is perhaps more suitable on some rides than on others depending upon how important it is to be together as a family when actually on the attraction.

Look out for the single rider entrance as they are sometimes a little difficult to see. If in doubt ask a cast member.

GF Challenge: Our record is 6 times straight on Test Track (in off-season). Can you beat it?

MORE ADVICE ON THE NEXT PAGE

SOME CLEVER PLANNING CAN ENSURE YOU GET THE MOST OUT OF EACH DAY

AVOID THE PARK BOASTING THAT DAY’S ‘EXTRA MAGIC HOURS’

“

“

AVOID EXTRA MAGIC HOURS

This is a free benefit to those staying on Disney property where every day one park opens either an hour early or stays open for an extra 3 hours in the evening just for their guests. Not all the attractions open but most of the main ones do. EMH brings in huge numbers into that particular park so avoiding it will help you beat the queues.

A good strategy is to visit the EMH park the day before as many people will wait for the EMH days. Basically the park operating the EMH is will be much busier than on a normal day and so should be avoided.

GO AGAINST THE GRAIN

It certainly pays not to follow the crowd. When most are still in bed you are at the park gates, when they’re having breakfast you are on your favourite ride. After they have arrived and facing at least an hour wait for their premium attraction you are taking an early lunch in the not so busy air conditioned restaurant.

Whilst they queue for their lunch you are taking in some of the secondary attractions or larger capacity ‘shows.’ They are now waiting in line for their third favourite ride in the baking hot afternoon sun but you are taking a very pleasant swim and chillin by the pool.

You now take an early dinner fuelling up ready for the evenings entertainment meanwhile they must get to do at least two more attractions before the scramble for food at peak time.

Back at the park you are rested and energised ready to enjoy the fireworks and parades whilst they are secretly wishing the day would end so they can just crawl back in to bed.

Disney Resort guests: If you are lucky enough to be staying on-site then you could take advantage with a short visit either very early or very late.

Indoor rollercoasters...

Revenge of The Mummy

Space Mountain

Hollywood StudiosWHERE

HEIGHT RESTRICTION

RIDE TIME

TRACK LENGTH

WHY IT’S UNIQUE

TOP SPEED

INTENSITY RATING

BEST BIT

WHEN TO GO

OVERALL RATING

Universal Studios Magic Kingdom

44”

2 minutes 30 secs

3186 feet

It’s the original indoor coaster!

28mph but feels much faster

7

Not knowing where you’re going next!

First thing / Fastpass

48”

2 minutes 50 secs

2200 feet

First psychological coaster and the special effects!

45mph

7.5

Escaping from those pesky beetles!

V. Early or V. Late

48”

1 minute 22 secs

3403 feet

Goes upside down, that launch and the music

64mph

8.5

The launch... 0-60mph in just 2.8secs!

8 / 10 8.5 / 10 7.5 / 10

First thing / Fastpass

Three indoor coasters, three different types of rides, which one is your favourite?Rock n Roller is lit up by flashing neon loud music as you rush through L.A. traffic in an upside down, corkscrew limo ride, hold on as the driver really puts his foot down. Even darker is the wild mouse rush of Space Mountain, with only minimal lighting from other space cruisers and Mother Earth. Careering through the galaxies in the dark keeps you guessing, which way next! Revenge of the Mummy has you trying to escape from the Mummy and his guards in this stop start coaster, fire, smoke and other special effects have you wanting even more. The after ride ‘grin meter’ meant it is voted our favourite.Vote for yours on our facebook poll www.facebook.com/gofloridamag

WE CHECK OUT THESE INDOOR, WHITE KNUCKLE RIDES

OUR WINNER

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster

TM&©

Its’ a Harry Potter and Superheroes

Universe

Most technically advanced?

Being Orlando’s newest theme park, opening 28th May 1999, IOA is deemed by many as the World most technological advance theme park. Cutting edge design, graphics and presentation is clear to see in the blockbuster experiences. Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, The Amazing Spiderman, Poseidon’s Fury and Jurassic Park River Adventure all demonstrate their creativity, enhancing and immersing guests into each adventure.

Who is it for?

It truly has something for everyone, thrills to keep the biggest adrenaline junkies happy, three world-class water rides that excite and soak in equal measure along playgrounds and the very colourful Seuss Landing for the youngsters. If we were forced to say, the park is best suited for older kids (11 +) and younger adults (18-30) but if you have the time in should not be missed.

Get ready for a big adventure and big action as you come face to face with superheroes, super villains, runaway dinosaurs and a certain well-known wizard. Wacky water rides, carton characters and a quirky Doctor add to the fun and entertainment.

Should it be renamed Harry Potter Land?

No! although the addition of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter has been an astounding success. The 2011 TEA / AECOM theme park attendance report showed a massive 29% increase in attendance (to 7.7 million visitors) from 2010, being the first full year of Harry Potter. There are many facets to the park, the attention to detail is approaching

Disney standards and six ‘lands’ to explore.

The World’s Best?

Well amongst it’s many awards it is the proud winner of two of the most important. The prestigious Theme Park Insider awards have previously voted The Amazing Adventures of Spiderman as the best theme park attraction, whilst the Forbidden Journey is now the current holder. Six time winner of the best theme park restaurant is Mythos situated in The Lost Continent. Full waiter service dining of excellent food, overlooking the lake and housed in a ‘dormant

volcano’ with subtle lighting, streams and fountains, all at

surprisingly reasonable prices.

Where should we start?

At the gate and early. Remember that the parking garage is a good ten minute walk away. If your first thought is “must see Harry” then the shortest and quickest route is head right at the lake, towards Seuss Landing. The benefit to approaching from this direction is that you enter through the Hogsmeade village arch and right into the heart of this magnificent re-creation. Thrill seekers should go left, straight to Spiderman, Dr Doom’s Fearfall and of course the Incredible Hulk coaster.

This is certainly an Islands of Adventure, something for everyone, a variety of types of rides, big and small. The inclusion of Hogwarts and all things Potter has made this park a DON’T MISS. It is amazing!

Park MapTOON LAGOON

A watery cartoon landscape with a wild and wet flume ride, an interactive play ship, and get

drenched on those bilge-rat barges

The Wizarding World of HARRY POTTER

Find yourself in Harry’s world, checkout the Hogsmeade

village, challenge dragons and visit Hogwarts on The

Forbidden Journey.

JURASSIC PARKGo back in time and explore the prehistoric land. See the visitor

centre, fly high over a camp based playground but watch out, a T-Rex is on the loose

PORT OF ENTRYGateway to the park, Grab

your park map and purchase park upgrades including the meal deal

and Express plus

MARVEL SUPER HERO ISLAND

Thrills and super heroes on every corner, defeat

gravity, be propelled at an incredible rate, battle evil

and career through the streets looking for a scoop.

SEUSS LANDINGNot a straight to be found in this crazy adaptation of

Dr Seuss. The little ‘uns will love to go round, over,

up and down this colourful land

INCREDIBLE HULK ROLLERCOASTER

DOCTOR DOOM’S FEARFALL

HIGH IN THE SKY TROLLEY

DRAGON CHALLENGECAROUSEL

FLIGHT OF THE HIPPOGRIFF

ONE FISH TWO FISH

HAVING FUN AT IOA

THE SIMPSONS STALL

DRINK TO BUTTERBEER SUCCESSA measure of the phenomenal success that The Wizarding World of Harry Potter has brought to I.O.A. can be seen from it’s sales of Butterbeer. Available in regular liquid form or as a frozen treat, sales reached one million in less than 7 months. The buttery, cream soda refreshment is serviced from two ‘tanker trucks’ in the Hogsmeade village. However if there are long queues, try the Hogsmead bar next to the 3 Broomsticks.

RIDE HEIGHT RESTRICTIONS You might be brave enough but are you tall enough?

Incredible Hulk Coaster 54”Dragon Challenge 54”Dr Doom Fearfall 52”H.P. the Forbidden Journey 48”Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls 44”Bilge Rat Barges 42”Spiderman 40”Flight of the Hippogriff 36”Seuss Trolley Train Ride 34”

SKIP THE REGULAR LINES Universal Express Plus gives guests the opportunity to jump the queue with this special pass. The cost varies as it is based upon how busy the park is and the anticipated demand, starting from $20 for a single park at the quietest time to a whopping $90 for both parks on the very busiest day. The average price for July and August is $39 for and $59 for the two. Although that is for one day, per person and is in addition to your park admission, it still has some important restrictions. It can only be used ONCE per ride and it is not even accepted at Harry Potter’s Forbidden Journey or Rip Ride Rocket (Universal Studios). We would say, unless you really detest queuing, get there early and save your money for something else.

Keeping 100% loyal to it’s books and films coupled with the meticulous attention to detail means it’s a small world. Establishments taken from the Hogsmeade Village and Diagon Alley are re-created to please even the most die-hard Potter fan. However some complain of overcrowding in the dark, tight spaces like the Owl Post or the ninety minute wait for the Olivanders Wand shop show.

The headline attraction is of course Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, a unique ride that has you flying along with Harry whilst trying to escape many of the ‘dark’ elements seen in the early part of this mega series. Almost an attraction in itself is the queue as you wind your way through the awe-inspiring Hogwarts castle.

The Flight of the Hippogriff is a junior rollercoaster ridden by many adults eager to taken in as much Harry as possible. Keep an ear out for Fang as you pass Hagrids cottage. For the real thrill seeker, the Dragon Challenge completes the ride offerings here, take you pick of dragon and head into 100ft drop, twists and loops, while hitting 60mph.

The courtyard area holds demonstrations with the TriWizard Spirit rally and from the Frog Choir. Nearby is a truck full of the delicious Butterbeer frozen or chilled treat. Good old English fish & chips is served in the 3 Broomsticks, perhaps washed down with a Hogs Head brew from the pub next door.

There are plenty of opportunities to pick up house related wear and other related merchandise, of which all the stores are worth browse through, even just to soak up the atmosphere. Send a postcard back home with a genuine Hogsmeade postmark from the Owl Post.

Much of the mega success and associated hype is certainly justified here, we don’t need to tell you not to miss it!

All photos: © 2012 Universal Orlando Resort. All rights reserved.

Wet, Wet, Wet... Water Rides!

The Wet-O-Meter

Jurassic Park River Adventure

You’ll get wet!

Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw

Falls

You’ll get soaked!Popeye @ Bluto’s Bilge-Rat Barges

You’ll get drenched!

The Three Broomsticks ‘Fly back home’ in this Hogmeade village eatery. English fare includes good any fish ‘n’ chips or shepherd’s pie. The open hall dining area adds to the ‘old worlde’ feel as Owls cast a beady eye over all. Some tasty desserts are offered especially the strawberry peanut-butter ice cream.

Thunder Falls Terrace A meat eaters delight with rotisserie chicken, turkey legs, ribs & burgers.

Mythos Regularly awarded the World’s best theme park restaurant, Mythos is full service. You can relax in an air cooled cavern with views across the lake. Prices are very reasonable when you consider the location, entrees start from $10 to the Filet at just $17. Certainly worth a visit if you have time.

Pizza Predattoria Quick service counter in Jurassic Park selling? You guessed it, take away PIZZA.

The Circus McGurkus Cafe Chicken, pizza, pasta and of course cheese burgers. Standard theme park quality grub but it’s almost worth it to say you ate at ‘Circus McGurkus’!

Tel: 0800 408 4834

Tickets: 2 park (14 day) £103, 5 park flexticket (14 day) £209 Pay on gate (1 day) $88

Size: 6 ‘islands’ 110 acres

Hours: 8am-10pm Peak 9am – 7pm off peak

Parking:

Regular: $15 per day $5 after 6pm

Preferred: $20

Website: www.universalorlando.co.uk

• Bring a change of clothing to really enjoy getting soaked on those water rides.

• Only get an Express plus pass if you really, really, hate queuing. It will only be really useful on extremely busy days.

• Don’t forget the single rider line of the Forbidden Journey, the ride is such that you cannot see the person next to you and really is an individual experience.

• Approach the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in an anti-clockwise direction for a panoramic view of the Hogmeade Village, with Hogwarts Castle in the distance.

• Take in the two ‘shows’ in the Lost Continent, a live Sindbad stunt show and the Tour of an ancient temple in Poseidon’s Fury.

• Spiderman – Often crowned World’s best theme park attraction, the HD improvements only strengthen its grip on that title

• Butterbeer – This should have a warning label, BEWARE – Highly addictive. A sweet white froth and followed by a refreshing nectar. Slurp

• Harry Potter – The attention to detail is stunning. Hogwarts Castle is a technological and architectural masterpiece.

The THREE excellent water rides, a great fun way to cool off in the Florida sun with the barges our favourite way of getting wet.

General Info Universal Islands of Adventure 6000 Universal Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32819

Hints and TipsGet there early and head straight for Spiderman and Harry Potter’s Forbidden Journey.

Why we love it hereIt is a park that really has something for everyone from thrill rides, water rides and a land for the real little ones too

DINING OPTIONS

OTHER OPTION INCLUDE

Confisco Grill: Full service with a bar

Blondies: Specialty sandwiches

Green Eggs & Ham: urm.. green

eggs & ham

Comic Strip Café: Italian, Fish and

Asian cuisine

1

thre

e

Live your American dream and hit the highway on a Harley Davidson. With wide open roads, perfect riding weather and from Orlando’s central Florida location, where would you go?

Over to Daytona for Bike week, glide over to the Gulf coast for sunset, perhaps a real road trip down to Miami’s ultra cool South Beach, then on to the Keys and feel king of the road. Eaglerider, on Sandlake Road, Orlando, have over ten different models so man (or lady) and machine can be matched in perfect harmony. Will you go for cruising with the ‘kitchen sink’ equipped Electra-glide, the more racy Sportster or

the real classic, the Heritage? Rental is for a minimum of 24 hours, extras such as satnav, additional panniers and full no risk insurance are available.

Free helmet and hotel delivery or collection is included if required, all you need is a UK motorcycle license. Eaglerider and Florida combines to give you a unique bike experience, we would recommend grinning from ear to ear only when stationary, those bugs are not that tasty!

Florida is full of unique opportunities, so we will have more for you in next issue too.

Create those lifetime memories by doing something different. says PETER KING.

never done that before

Ride a Harley DavidsonEaglerider rental

From $99Call: [001] 407 438 4055www.eaglerider.com/orlando

3Snuggle-up with a loved one as you take a evening ride through the forest trails of the secluded Wilderness Lodge and campground. Leaving from Crockett’s Cavern at Pioneer Hall, this 25 minute journey whisks you away to what seems, a million miles from the Magic Kingdom. Smaller carriages can accommodate 2 adults and 1 child, whilst the larger one holds either 4 adults or 3 adults and 2 children. This nightly slice of relaxation runs from 6pm to 9.30pm, reservations recommended.

Romantic Horse Drawn Carriage Ride

2Think Florida and you think sunshine, theme parks and gators! There are over one million alligators living there and Gatorland has its fair share too. It is Orlando’s original theme park, opening in 1949, long before Walt Disney came to down.

Gatorland is home to 1000’s of alligators, reptiles, birds and wildlife. At the Gator Wrestling stadium, you get the chance to do just that, ‘wrestle’ a live Gator. What a picture to show your friends and you’ll earn their respect as you climb on board and show it whose boss.

Wrestle an aligatorGatorland

From $10Call: [001] 407 855 5496www.gatorland.com

$45,00Call: [001] 407 939 7529 www.disneyworld.disney.go

The most wonderful time of the year in the most magical place on Earth.

What could be better?

An Orlando Christmas

Very MerryChristmas

Party

Mickey’sThe number one party to be at for all kids and the young at heart is naturally held at Disney’s Magic Kingdom. It is a hard ticket event that takes place from 7pm ‘til midnight on selected nights November through December.Special Christmas shows, parades, fireworks and castle show make it a real night to remember. Free cookies and hot cocoa and a special edition sorcerers card are included in the festive fun.All the parks major attractions stay open until midnight giving the opportunity to hopefully ride some more than once.Look out for a Santa Goofy photo opportunity and plenty of chances to meet your favourite characters. www.disneyworld.disney.go.com

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Parade

Christmas by thenumbers

at Walt Disney World

16

FOOT

800

PERFORMERS

8.5

MILLIONlights strung

throughout the Walt Disney World Resort

200

GUESTchoirs during the run

of Candlelight Processional (Epcot)

1314

WREATHShung

throughout

high gingerbread house (Grand

Floridian Resort)

10

MILESof twinkling rope lights in the Osbourne lights (Hollywood Studios)

of twinkling rope lights in the Osbourne lights

(Hollywood Studios)

35800

WHITE LEDlights on the 70 ft tall tree in the

Contemporary Resort lobby

26

FEETwide base of the Christmas tree

(Magic Kingdom)

11

COUNTRIESdressed for the Holidays Around the World (Epcot)

100

PERCENTgingerbread

carousel (Beach Club Resort)

1300DECORATED

trees throughout the Walt Disney World

300 000 YARDS

of ribbons and bows draped over the Christmas trees

Christmas in OrlandoWONDERFUL1It all adds up to

1

LIFE-SIZEgingerbread

carousel (Beach Club Resort)

The streets of America at Disney’s Hollywood Studios come alive with literally millions of multi-coloured dancing lights. Animated displays, 3-D effects and snowfall all add to this amazing display over an extended Christmas period, November 9th to January 6th.

M acy’s Holiday parade takes to the streets recreating the famous New York City’s Thanksgiving Day

Parade. Those iconic balloons form part of the celebrations with floats, clowns and of course Santa himself. Don’t miss the spectacular tree lighting accompanied by a dazzling display of lights and music. Daily from December 1st through January 1st at Universal Studios. Mannheim Steamroller are in fact the biggest selling Christmas artists of all time, yes we

were surprised too! See them perform live in concert on the three December weekend nights prior to Christmas. They take to the stage at 6pm and admission is included in your park ticket. Adding to the Studio’s Xmas spirit are two special holiday shows from the parks popular performers, the Blues Brothers and A Barney Christmas. For a taste of Christmas the Holiday Village has hot chocolate, caramel apples and roasted chestnuts amongst it’s offerings.

‘BIG APPLE’ CELEBRATIONSStudios̀

Love Shrek, Po and other Dreamworks movies then ‘The Christmassy Dreamworks’ package could be for you. It includes Unlimited front of the line access to ICE, Shrekfeast Character meal, Dreamworks character holiday meet &

greets and much more. Two night packages start at $219 per night (all prices plus sales tax).

For tickets and info: www.ChristmasAtGaylordPalms.com

It’s Grinchmas Seuss Landings at Islands of Adventure is transformed into a wintry wonderland with festive storybook décor as it becomes Grinchmas. A heartwarming live Christmas show starring the Grinch and featuring music record by those Mannheim Steamrollers.Say hello to the Whos from Who-Ville as stroll around Seuss Landing spreading good cheer and don’t forget a visit to the Wonky Tree lot.

XmasChill & Cheer

I ce sculptures is returning for its tenth holiday season at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Kissimmee. This year’s

all-new extravaganza features the DreamWorks’ animated TV special, Merry Madagascar. Visitors experience the story of how Alex the Lion and his friends saved Christmas after Santa and his reindeer crash on the island of Madagascar. The entire family will delight in the larger-than-life characters, real snow and a thrilling ride down the two-story- tall ice slides. The show is carved entirely from two million pounds of ice including clear “crystal” ice, white opaque ice, and coloured ice in nine brilliant hues. For more than a month before its opening, a team of 40 skilled artisans from Harbin, China

painstakingly carve and assemble this unique, 20,000-square-foot attraction. The ICE! attraction is kept at a temperature of 9° Fahrenheit (-13° Celsius), so dress warmly. The resort provides hooded winter coats in all sizes to wear inside the attraction. Long pants and closed-toe shoes are required, and a hat and gloves are strongly recommended.ICE! has become a holiday tradition at the Gaylord Palms Resort, and is just one of several family-oriented holiday activities, including the holiday ShrekFeast and Meet & Greets with favourite DreamWorks characters. Enjoy magnificent seasonal décor with over two million twinkling lights, a 54-foot-tall Christmas tree and musical entertainment.

Nov 10 – Jan 1

Tickets from

$22.99 non-peak $27.99 peak Child (4-12) $13.99 Discounted tickets available for seniors (55+)

Runs

1.

I should think everyone has heard of the Titanic and that it was a very big boat that sunk after hitting an iceberg. For most of us, information has been gleaned from the many films, documentaries and TV series that have covered this tragic event. It is a ‘story’ that has fascinated the world ever since that fateful night of April 15 1912, when 1514 of the 2228 passengers and crew on board, lost their lives.

The interest is unsurprising, for the Titanic is a subject of great human passions, of tragedy, wealth, love, greed and heroism. Of course over time many myths and have half-truths have emerged about the ship, it’s owners, even the passengers and crew. With the recent hundred year anniversary my own curiosity was awoken and perfect timing to hopefully gets some ‘facts’, with a visit to Titanic The Experience, located right on International Drive. Essentially it is a museum run by RMS Titanic Inc, who are the exclusive stewards of the Titanic and her wreck site.

Tours start on the hour, every hour, as trained actors in period costume, guide you through the displays, telling stories of their character’s history whilst highlighting details about the exhibits and explaining why certain things happened. To ‘come aboard’ you are given a boarding pass of an actual passenger, for the next hour I was to be Mrs James Baxter, aged 50, traveling with her son and daughter, returning home to Canada after seeking medical advice in Europe for her heart condition. Mrs Baxter was

obviously quite wealthy, seeking out the best medical advice and travelled in 1st Class, so I was hopefully of being well looked after, perhaps even a glass of wine or two!

We start at the beginning with a brief history of the men and company behind the building of the great ship Titanic and then on to the Belfast shipyard where she was ‘born’. As we move from each set, the story progresses, while every set features artifacts from the Titanic itself and other articles of that time. Each room created an atmosphere, through sight, sound, even smell as you get a sense of the generation.

The Titanic truly was a luxury liner, second class was as good as first on any other craft of the day. The difference in the treatment of the classes, emotionally portrayed in the blockbuster of the same name, Leonardo DiCaprio and all that, is well explained. Although is it impossible to recreate the sheer size, the exhibition captured the grandeur, as replicas of the 1st Class cabin and the Grand staircase showed the attention to detail and the use of the finest materials available, including very expensive lino! Over 400 historical treasures are on display, many with amazing stories, with even the smallest pieces proving great interest and value.

The tour builds to the fateful moment when disaster strikes, whilst precious time is lost due to communication failures and

Titanic the Experience, 7324 International Drive, Orlando, Florida 32819

CALL 001 407 248 1166 OPEN 10am – 8pm (last tour leaves at 7pm and 6pm on Saturdays) TICKETS Adults: $21.95, Child (3-11): $12.95, 2 years old & under: Free

Over 400 historical treasures are on display,

many with amazing stories, with even the

smallest pieces proving great interest and value

THE OFFICIAL STORY OF A 100 YEAR OLD JOURNEY BY RICHARD KING

TITANICTHE EXPERIENCE

1. A screw wing propeller, the central one wouldn’t fit in the room 2. Guides show the Grand staircase 3. The ACTUAL ship’s telegraph – set in reverse 4. Names of everyone on board and their fate 5. Guides show the Grand staircase

2.

4.

5.

3.

misunderstandings. That confusion even spread to us as we stand on deck in the cold night air, men are separated from the women and children, is this a drill?

Four large plaques display the names of every passenger and crew member aboard, here you see if you were one of the lucky one who managed tosurvived that awful night. For me, although being a 1st Class passenger and having the greatest chance of surviving, my Mrs Baxter sadly perished, perhaps her heart couldn’t take the strain. Even though it was 100 years ago, I couldn’t help but feel the sadness at her loss and that of the 1500 others.

Many of the deaths were caused by hypothermia as they plunged into the freezing cold Atlantic waters. A miniature iceberg demonstrated just how cold those waters were, I failed to keep my hand there for more than a few seconds. The second largest piece of the Titanic ever recovered, a three ton section of the hull, named ‘little big piece’ hangs here as a reminder of the ship’s huge size and to the efforts of RMS Titanic, INC, in rescuing and conserving the priceless artifacts from the wreck site, some two and half miles beneath the ocean’s surface. Some good has come from this tragedy as numerous changes to ship design, safety features and emergency procedures have no doubt saved countless lives ever since.

At the end of the tour you are invited to revisit any of the displays and take as much time as you want. You can really feel what life was like, what it would have meant to have been on that ship over 100 years ago, whether a rich socialite or an immigrant off to start a new life in the great US of A.

As I emerged through to the obligatory gift shop, with its memorabilia and trinkets, I reflected on time well spent and happy that my knowledge and understanding of this momentous event had been raised.

Replica of a luxurious first class suite A genuine electric heater from a first class cabin

Replica of the communication room

Replica of the cafe area Genuine fragment of the ship’s hull

A selection of artefacts

12Take magical rides with turtles, supercars and even a magician. Watch new shows, play some Crazy golf and sleep in with the Lion King

New reasons to visit...

1. M.K. FANTASYLAND EXPANSION

Disney’s response to Harry Potter is the park’s biggest ever expansion, with completion not due until 2014. December 6th sees the grand opening of double Dumbo, The Great Goofini, Under the Sea - Journey of the Little Mermaid and Ariel’s Grotto. The Be Our Guest restaurant along with some other surprises complete this main phase.

2. LEGOLAND WATERPARK

Quickly following on from Legoland’s 2011 opening comes it own water park. The usual water park offerings include wave pool, water slides, and a fun climbing centre. Great fun especially for the younger ones. http://florida.legoland.com/

3. THE EXOTIC DRIVING EXPERIENCE

Experience the power of a real supercar with a selection of the World’s fastest and most exotic cars. Strap yourself in and take to the wheel. Which one will you choose, Ferrari 458, Porsche 997, Lamborgini Gallardo or Audi R8. www.exoticdriving.com

1.

2.

3.

2012 was another exciting year for Central Florida as new rides and attractions give even more reasons (or excuses!) to visit. Here we give you a dozen of the best.

12 NEW REASONS TO VISIT

4.

5.

6.

4. ART OF ANIMATION RESORT

This Disney ‘value’ resort offers magnificently themed accommodation, putting you in the middle of the movies. Three wings, Lion King, Cars and Finding Nemo consist of family suites, each having three sleeping areas and two bathrooms, with prices from $248 per night. The Little Mermaid wing has standard rooms starting at just $94 per night.

5. SPIDERMAN HD

Often voted the World’s best theme park attraction, Spiderman has got even better. The upgrading to state of the art 4K digital projection and 16 channel audio makes the action more life-like than ever, putting you right in the middle. Put on those new 3D glasses and see what you’re missing.

6. FRESHWATER OASIS

Wade through unique waterways in a rainforest setting and discover marmoset monkeys and playful Asian otters. The shallow, waist high water level means a whole family adventure awaits. www.discoverycove.com

See inside the world of the majestic sea turtle in an epic journey under the sea using ‘first of a kind’ technology that pulls together an animated film, ultra HD quality and all shown in a 360 degree dome theatre. SeaWorld’s newest attraction opened April 28th following renovation of the old Manatee Rescue centre, now you see large viewing tanks of these wonderful creatures, as you follow the story of SeaWorld’s enormously successfully Manatee and sea turtle conservation efforts.

The main attraction is without doubt the 3D film that gives you unprecedented access to this hidden world. Follow the life of the sea turtle from the beach across thousands of miles underwater and back again. The amazing effects submerse you as the 950 gb film (trying downloading a copy of that!) gives a turtle eye view. It is all played out in front, to the side and even above, truely putting you in the centre of an Ocean of wonder.www.seaworld.com

7. Turtletrek 3D HD 360

The latest and largest of Disney’s expanding fleet, this 4000 passenger capacity cruise liner brings Walt Disney World to the water. Modern technology and Disney ‘magic dust’ combine for endless fun, recreation, show and character interaction. World class cuisine in elaborate theme restaurants and top of the range adults only spa mean there is something for everyone. Seven night Caribbean cruises leave from Port Canaveral. ALL ABOARD.. www.disneycruise.com

8. Disney Fantasy Cruise Ship

12 NEW REASONS TO VISIT

9. Despicable MeBecome a minion in this hysterical

high-tech 3D attraction at the Universal Studios

10. Hollywood Drive-in GolfUniversal City Walk adds two 18 hole

themed 1950`s Sci-Fi flicks putt-putt golf

11. Rattlesnake Zipline at Ecosafari

The USA`s 1st zipline rollercoaster, 1000 ft long, 65ft high and 20 mph

www.floridaecosafaris.com

12. Universal`s Cinematic spectacular

A stirring tribute to 100 years of movie memories, featuring the exquisite voice

of Morgan Freeman.11. 10.

9. 10.

12.

Create lifetime memories - discover, plan and experience the best of Central Florida

DINING

• Chef Mickey and the gang• Buffett breakdown

SHOPPING• Tour Premium Outlets @Vineland Road• Spell of Shopping with Harry Potter

• WHEN SHOULD WE GO?• Which tickets do we NEED?

AdviceOffers

HintsTips

&

COMING NEXT

MONTHEssentials January issue

available 23 December 2012

PLANNING

ACCOMMODATION• Why stay in a Villa?• Location, Location, Location

Peace andtranquility found in Orlando

Submit your fire and water photos on our Facebook page

WIN a SeaWorld

Orcapicture frame

FIRE& WATER

Our

Photos

Email us each

photo`s location

Firecomp@gofloridamag.

com

DOES MY BUM LOOK BIG

IN THIS?

Cos Babyyou`re a firewor

k!

Just working

on my tan!

TIMETOGO

My MUM always said I was an

ANGEL

I pressed the wrong button

Oops

Again

Plumbing service?How quick can you get here?

just for

by ryan, aged 10 1/2

Pssst! Come and

meet me and my friends!

BE A SORCERER

Check the park map to see where they are. Some have cool places to meet, like Ariel’s Grotto

I love Chip n Dale, they are my favs, high 5 them but watch out they can be naughty, LOL

Ryan,s tip...

Use a fat pen for autographs, help Goofy to get a grip!

Get free playing cards

from the FIRE

STATION. Find and

defeat Disney villains

in special hiding

places within the

Magic Kingdom

“My mum cried when she met Mickey but I just gave him a big hug and had my photo with him.” from Jacob, aged 7

did you know...

kids!Check out Chef M

ickey

’s

The best way to meet is

at ‘character dining’

Answers to Competition Corner: 1 -D, 2 - C, 3 - D, 4 - A

A day at...

by phoebe, aged 9

MAGIC KINGDOM!

BEST BIT: Take Off & watching films!

WORST BIT: Can’t run around!

HOW FAST? 560mph (8 * faster than speed limit)!

HOW BIG? Room for up to 600 people!

WHAT’S IT LIKE ON A PLANE?

Competition Corner1. Where can you find Nemo & friends? A: Magic Kingdom C: SeaWorldB: Universal Studios D: Epcot

2. Who goes on a Forbidden Journey? A: Shamu C: Harry PotterB: Mickey Mouse D: Spiderman

3. Who is Mickey’s pet? A: Goofy C: MinnieB: Donald Duck D: Pluto

4. Where in SeaWorld can you feed a dolphin? A: Dolphin Cove C: Shamu StadiumB: Turtle Trek D: Dolphin Nursery

For a chance to star in a future edition, send your “My day at...”

photos and stories to us – our address is at the bottom

of the page.

Send your photos, stories and colourings to kids@gofloridamag.com or post to www.facebook.com/gofloridamag

My best day EVER

11pm: Got my Minnie ears

8am: At the gate, so excited

9am: Straight on Space Mountain, whoosh

4pm: Monsters Inc., so funny

3pm: See Minnie in the parade

8pm: Wishes fireworks are so awesome !

2 TOWER OF TERRORDisney`s Hollywood Studios Drop in (& down) to the twilight zone. The spooky, abandoned Hollywood Hills Hotel and its staff combine for a ‘chillin’ experience.

RIDESThose not to be missed...

1 SPIDERMAN UNIVERSAL IOAThe recent HD upgrade is truly amazing. 3D and ride vehicle test all your spidey senses but leave you spinning a big grin.

© Universal

3 HARRY POTTER’S FORBIDDEN JOURNEYUniversal IOAThe awesome Hogwarts detailing and unique ride experience justify some of the Harry Potter hype. Muggles are welcome too.

5 TEST TRACKDisney`s EpcotBuckle up for Disney’s fastest and longest ride. You and your vehicle are subjected to hills, corners, brake tests and that high speed loop.

4 KILIMANJARO SAFARIDisney`s Animal KingdomTake a truck ride through the African Savanna. Riding early morning is best to get close to giraffes, rhinos, elephants and even crocs at their most active.

THEME PARK ATTRACTIONSOURTOP...SHOWSFrom real life to fantasy and 4D...

1 FANTASMIC Disney`s Hollywood StudiosThis fantastic night-time presentation is pure Disney magic. Heroes, villains, fire, water and fireworks combine to make your dreams come true.

2 SHAMUSeaWorldOne Ocean is a beautiful and gentler show, focusing on the grace of the awesome Killer Whale whilst offering plenty of splash.

3 WISHESDisney`s Magic KingdomPixie dust galore as this firework spectacular, lights up the night sky over Cinderella’s castle. A beautiful musical score ensures an emotional end to a great day.

4 FESTIVAL OF THE LION KINGDisney`s Animal Kingdom25 minutes of high tempo sights and sounds. All the animated film’s favourite stars and songs feature, with moving stages, singers, acrobats and much more.

5 TERMINATOR 2: 3DUniversal StudiosCombines live action, gun totting animatronics and 3D imagery for a full-on action blast.

2 SOARINDisney’s Epcot Take flight across the great state of California hang-gliding over vineyards, canyons, beaches and cities. (min. height 40”)

FAMILY FUNFrom young to old who will love them the most?

1 TOY STORY MANIADisney’s Hollyood Studios Carnival style shoot-up where every scene is a new game. Great string pull firing system too.

3 PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEANDisney’s Magic KingdomAn indoor cruise as pirates plunder and pillage. Look out for Captain Jack Sparrow.

5 E.T.Disney’s Universal StudiosGet on your bike and help E.T. back to his home planet after which he thanks you personally.

4 SHREK 4-DDisney’s Universal Studios Join Shrek and Fiona in a wild chase with the ghostly Lord Farquaad with 3D, moving seats and other ‘effects’.

ROLLERCOASTERSThrill seekers heaven

1 MANTA SeaWorldFly like a sting ray! You’re horizontal (most of the time) climbing 200ft and swooping all the way down to sea level.

2 EXPEDITION EVEREST Disney’s Animal KingdomExploring this mountain with a yeti on the loose could bring you to a dead stop.

3 MONTU Busch GardensSeven inversions, 60mph, 3.8g and 128 foot drop, all whilst inverted, need we say more.

4 DRAGON CHALLENGE I.OA. Two dragons to choose, we prefer the ‘in your face action’ of the Chinese Fireball.

5 INCREDIBLE HULK I.O.A. Wow what a start, 0-40 in 2 seconds, uphill ! quickly followed by loops and corkscrews. Oh & its green.

THEME PARK ATTRACTIONSOURTOP...