Friday, March 30, 2012

Resurrection

Ok, so what is up with so many posters replying to posts that are 2-3 YEARS old? Come on, at least check the original post date before hitting reply. Some info that is given now is not applicable to what they were wanting then.

On a side note- Hey all my TA buddies! How are things going? It is 26 degrees in my TX town this morning. Can%26#39;t wait to get to FL in March.

Resurrection

I understand Texasteach, not sure, I know one poster is signed on for one reason only to promote a certain hotel. Must be a hotel employee. If you see the missing posts that is what was there. I agree, people need to read the dates. Some may be relavent but most are old news!!!!

It will be perfect weather when you come in March!!!

Resurrection

TT, how was your trip to Daytona this year? What all did you do? Anything new to report on?


hoosier- i didn%26#39;t actually get to Daytona in March ths year, but I was in FL, and the weather was AWESOME!!!! My circumstabces have become very interesting latey and I might actually be moving back to the Daytona area this summer..... what fun right???? I grew up in Daytona, and visit 2-3 times each year, I just haven%26#39;t been there since New years ( a total blast by the way) but will be going back very soon and will report back. I am very interested in the boardwalk renovations, etc.


I hope your situation is not an unpleasant one. Moving to DB sounds like a positive thing. We fell in love with the area eight years ago and have been back almost every year since. We have been to a few other beaches in FL, Cocoa, New Smyrna, Clearwater, Treasure Island, and the DB area is where we go now exclusively.

  • natural remedies for pimple
  • In Daytona Now...

    In Daytona Now...weather is great and beach is beautiful.





    Traveling with 5 year old grandson - so will be experience having a trip to entertain children.





    Renata





    Any questions while I am here ??



    In Daytona Now...


    Renata, enjoy your trip...41 more days until I am sitting on the beach in Daytona, can%26#39;t wait.



    In Daytona Now...


    Enjoy your time there and save some nice weather and sand for us...... ;-)




    Have a great time with the little one. I imagine it is a different experience with him.





    What is the water temperature in April?





    Anything new on the boardwalk area. Isn%26#39;t the Breakers park nice? We watched New Year%26#39;s Eve fireworks from there this year and it was so nice.





    Charlotte




    Hey Bluzin,



    Yeah, I got lots of questions:)



    How long are you staying?



    Where are you staying?



    Did you get good air fare?



    Are you going to do one of the theme parks with your grandchild?



    Have you had a piece of cheesecake yet from that wonderful little French bakery on Granada?



    Does the beach erosion per se look any different than this time last year?



    Thanks,



    punz




    Hey Punz,





    How long are you staying? Scheduled to fly home April 21st





    Where are you staying? Daytona Beach Resort %26amp; Conference Center// Ocean Walk %26amp; Hawaiian Inn





    Did you get good air fare? Yes -- our American Express points were traded in,so this trip our air fare was free..





    Are you going to do one of the theme parks with your grandchild? No -- his mother may take him...





    Have you had a piece of cheesecake yet from that wonderful little French bakery on Granada? No -- and no alcohol either -- this is a healthy trip :0





    Does the beach erosion per se look any different than this time last year? No -- beach looks great !!





    Having a great time - weather was beautiful today -- wish you were here !!





    Renata




    Blu, there is a post on the DB TA forum from someone bringing a large family, they are looking for condos. Maybe you could clue them in?

    No Wake Charters

    I have heard rumors that they are no longer in business even though their website is still up.





    Before I send an email to them, I figure I would ask the TA experts of what they have heard and any reviews that you may have. Would be nice to get out on a C/O sail while we are in town in June.



    No Wake Charters


    We went out with Capt. Ran and Lacey in Mid-Feb. Capt. Ran has the business up for sale, and the potential purchasers at the time did not buy based on finances. We recently heard from the Capt that he has purchased a home in Missouri (nothing against Missouri or anyone from Missouri, but it seems like a tough tradeoff!), but stated that when he sold the business he would stay on for an undetermined period of time for the transition.





    We went out as part of Lou%26#39;s month long 40th b-day celebration. We chartered the boat for the entire day, and they treated us like absolute royalty. We hit the reef, anchored out, did some swimming, floating, drinking, and sunning all the parts that need sunning, especially since Atlantic Shores is gone (sigh). Saw lots of turtles, great fish, and even had a pod of dolphins stop by! Drop the Capt. an e-mail and see. If he%26#39;s still doing it, it is well worth it, and we%26#39;d gladly do it again if he%26#39;s still around when we come back. If not, we%26#39;ll have that day fondly stored in our hearts.





    We are also a huge advocates of John and Bernadette McCall at Senses At Play. Their photography is stunning, and they do sensual photoshoots of couples that get set to music and put on DVD. That service can be linked to off of their website (Google Senses at Play or Loversart). We did a photoshoot with them during our 1st visit to KW, and Lou surprised me this last trip by having them shoot her replicating some of our favorite prints they have for sale in their gallery (no, they only use models for those, not private shots). They turned out great - but two unique ones took our breath away, and they blew them up to 44'; x 28';, had them framed, and we%26#39;ll have them hanging in our home next week! Not for everyone of course, but if you guys like No Wake, this just may be something up your alley.



    No Wake Charters


    ChrisandLou- Thanks for the great information and I will send him an email and see what if they are still sailing. Yes we have looked at Senses at Play%26#39;s website and find it very interesting. The wife is very much into that and we try to get some pics everywhere we go, thusly the interest in No Wake.




    We got a few nice ones out at the Dry Tortugas this trip as well. Big place, not too many people.

    Virgin Holidays weddings in Clearwater

    Hi there,



    Has anybody booked/had their Florida wedding through Virgin Holidays UK?





    I got engaged last weekend (in Washington DC, how exciting!) and really want to get married in Florida. Is it worth booking through Virgin? Going it alone? (eeek!) I don%26#39;t want to feel like i am on a conveyer belt of couples, getting churned out by the half hour but I want to feel like it is being dealt with by the best people who are in the know.





    Also, I know that Virgin don%26#39;t arrange evening receptions - where would be a good place to begin looking? I am looking at Sheraton Sand Key, Marriot Sand Ke, Tradewinds Grand Resort.





    Any info would be gratefully received.... I am going back to surfing the net for more info!!!!



    Virgin Holidays weddings in Clearwater


    Forgot to say - I would be looking to tie the knot in October/early November. Does the weather generally allow sunbathing still at this time? Thank u x



    Virgin Holidays weddings in Clearwater


    Weather is usually in the low to mid 80%26#39;s during the day. Very nice time - Not as hot and humid as earlier in the Summer.



    I have never been to a wedding on Clearwater Beach, but have heard from several folks here on TA that they had a great wedding here.



    The beach on Sand Key, is not normally near as crowded as Clearwater Beach, so it may afford you a quieter, more peaceful ceremony. Plus, all the fun spots of Clearwater Beach are just accross the bridge.




    I got married on Sand Key beach (definitely more private than clearwater beach) and had my reception across the street at the Marriott Sand Key.. I knew where I wanted my recpetion so I started at the Marriott and the wedding coordinator there (Deb at the time) helped me out so much, she pointed me in a direction of wedding coordintor, officiant, florist, etc. also sent me brochures on vendors in the area. She was extremely helpful as I am from out of town as well but frequent the area every year, but didn%26#39;t know vendors.





    If you decide onthe Sheraton the coordinator there (Mark at the time) will probably be able to point in the director of vendors as well.

    flights with thomsonfly movies for kids?

    any one any experiance of flying with thomsons? how is the in flight entertainment? am hoping it is good for kids to keep them occupied, a few films would be good but am also planning on taking nintendo ds for them, i presume you are allowed them on flight?



    flights with thomsonfly movies for kids?


    Hey





    You can take Nintendo DS on flights, as long as they are not being used during take off or landing. Same applies for iPods.



    flights with thomsonfly movies for kids?


    thanks




    No prob. I%26#39;ve only flown Thomson to European destinations and Egypt, so not sure about the long haul flights. I assume you%26#39;d have a seatback entertainment system?




    Hi, I have flown with First Choice and Thomson have just joined or taken them over. Not really sure which it is however, we have done loads of research and they will mostly be using First Choice aeroplanes repainted with Thomson Logo; We also researched Tomson planes just in case.





    And yes you will have personall tv%26#39;s on the back of the seat in front of you. You will get 5 movies and a selection of games and childrens cartoon chanel, commedy chanel, TV chanel etc, plus more. You can pay an extra 拢5 each way to receive extra movies. I did this for my son last time, and he was thrilled. Quiet for whole trip. You can use nintendos etc but not on take of or landing, just make sure it has a full charge.





    Hope you find it ok. Oh one more hint, you will be given head phones for the journey out there but not on the return journey, so keep your head phones.





    We found out this the hard way and ended up having to purchase some on the plane.





    Hope you have a nice trip.




    Thanks for that.


  • eye liner
  • Best Disney Character Dining

    We will be visiting in Oct w/6,8 %26amp; 10 yr olds. First time, we decided to wait until naps, tantrums etc were done! B/c we girls and a boy, want a well rounded experience...not interested in Pooh and friends.

    Best Disney Character Dining

    We%26#39;ve enjoyed Chef Mickey%26#39;s for an early (7:30) breakfast, then hop on the monorail and arrive at Magic Kingdom or Epcot in time for Rope Drop. I%26#39;ve found dinner there to be too much after being at the park all day..meltdown city (especially the parents!!). There%26#39;s a breakfast at OHana at the Polynesian with Lilo and Stitch, and also one at the Beach Club resort with Mickey, etc. Where are you staying?

    Best Disney Character Dining

    Very smart waiting till kids are a little older. Little ones don%26#39;t remember their trip. We always have dinner with Chef Mickey our first day. Excellent buffet for kids and adults. The first day can get crazy and having a reservation at Chef Mickey forces us to stop and relax and enjoy a good (and fun) dinner.


    We are not staying on sight. I was lucky enough to have a brother who gave us his 7 day timeshare on beautiful property 10min away....so, though I dont get some perks...I do save $2000 in hotel costs. Thanks for responding...


    I mean on site...too late in the evening.


    I have never understood spending that kind of money on toddlers.I suppose some people have that kind of money to spend. One parent I know said it was for his memories, not the kids? I want all the kids to be able to take advantage of everything...no left outs.(they are very close in age and this is a problem when someone cannot participate)


    Now that Liberty Tree Tavern no longer has a character meal, my vote will also tend toward Chef Mickey%26#39;s.


    Hi Fabules3 - With those ages I will also throw my hat in for Chef Mickey%26#39;s in the Contemporary Hotel for breakfast. Mickey, Minnie, Goofy %26amp; Pluto will come around to all the tables for pictures and autographs.

    The buffet has everything you could possibly imagine for breakfast so no one will leave hungry. Here is the link to the allears website with the menu.

    www.allears.net/menu/menu_cmb.htm


    We really enjoyed Donald%26#39;s Safari Breakfast at the Tusker House in Animal Kingdom. Great breakfast, with good variety in a really cool building. Go on a day when there is no morning magic hours and if the park opens at 9:00, get a breakfast reservation for 8:00. That way you are already in the park when it opens and the restaurant is right next to the safari ride for you to ride at 9:00.


    We like a late breakfast at Chef Mickey%26#39;s-10:30 or so_ we go to the MK first and then walk over to the hotel. Lots of pictures with Mickey of course and pretty good food,nice atmosphere. We get filled up through lunch


    Hi fabules

    Well Epcot Akershus story book dining Go for a breakfast and meet 5 princesses This one is so good . And even my boys husbond and then 11 year old enjoyed the place, special when Jasmin come around .

    And then there are several at Grand Floridan

    with the prince/princesses and the mean stepsisters and stepmum who make a lot of show. ( this one I havn麓t tryed)

    Other then that was the Tucsker house which we didn麓t get with Donald and friends- so we choosed Boma no, character but wow a great dining experiance

    it was.

    Mutter

  • AJAX in .net
  • Universal Studios - Twister...Ride it Out Closure?

    Twister...Ride it Out is closed seasonally per the Universal Studios calendar.





    Can anybody confirm this? If true, any idea when this attraction reopens?





    Thanks.



    Universal Studios - Twister...Ride it Out Closure?


    Ugh. I hated that ';attraction.'; I%26#39;m deathly afraid of tornadoes. I think I actually had to leave that one in the middle of it.



    Universal Studios - Twister...Ride it Out Closure?


    Shame. Good attraction, when the cow goes flying it is hilarious!




    Cant answer the question but to be honest, wont miss it.




    Yes its closed along with Fear factor Live. they both say that they will reopen in the spring (no actual date given)




    Sorry, but IMO, this was a big dud!!





    The preshow with Paxton and Helen Hunt describing the making of the movie was much more interesting to me than the attraction itself.





    I%26#39;d like to see them replace this altogether with something a little more thrilling.




    Can%26#39;t answer the question, however feel I should defend the attraction!





    I saw a programme on tv about it - how they create a Twister indoor is very very clever %26amp; sadly lost on most who don%26#39;t understand how it all works. The pre-season should be about how its done....





    Plus you do actually feel the power of it if you stand down the front...




    I actually enjoyed the Twister attraction. I thought it was better than Men in Black to be quite honest. If anybody is able to find out when the attraction reopens will you please post. I was hoping to take my kids to see it in mid March. Oh well.



    Thanks.




    Hi there if you are interested in updates to do with ride closure/opening, new rides opening (ie Manta) operational and seasonal closures and general gossip in the world of rides and rollercoasters all round the world not just florida try this web site as it has its finger on the pulse of what is happening all over the world.





    www.screamscape.com/index.htm





    Hope this will help for future references




    The Twister show is interesting for what it is and very powerful if you stand up front. It is about making movies and how they are done. It has always been open in May when we have been there.

    Jelly fish in July

    My family has a condo reserved for the end of July and First of August at the Pelican Isle. I%26#39;m looking forward to our trip but was curious about the jellyfish. I got to thinking and each time during the summer that I have been there the jellyfish were terrible. Was that just a coincidence or is it like that during the summer?



    Jelly fish in July


    Can%26#39;t say they won%26#39;t be there but last year was the only year I%26#39;ve been to Destin and seen lots of jellyfish.



    Jelly fish in July


    The jellyfish are totally unpredictable. If you have encountered bad jellyfish on multiple vacations, you have been very unlucky. Usually they are no problem.




    Jellyfish season starts the last part of July through August. Sorry for the bad news! My family and I go every year and we found this out 2 years ago on our trip to the emergency room. The nurse told us of the ';jellyfish season';. So now we go right after Memorial Day to the first of June.






    I am with Hawkfish on this one - no one can predict jellyfish season (except Mother Nature) I have seen a whole lot more times without jellyfish then with - but last year was exceptionally bad (worldwide)




    The nurse lied. There is no such thing as JellyFish Season. She was ignorant.





    JellyFish are totally unpredictable.




    I guess I have been lucky! In my 6 trips to Destin I have never even seen a jellyfish!




    Although there IS a 100% percent chance that there will be jellyfish in the ocean all through July.



    I%26#39;m no marine biologist, but I did stay at a Holiday in Express last night.




    Well the Holiday Inn%26#39;s not working for you too well. Destin is on the gulf not the ocean.





    I still think the most reliable source of information is Semco%26#39;s crystal ball.




    Suma - I believe what the HI Express expert was saying is that there is a 100% chance that there will be jellyfish in the ocean, gulf, wherever, but nobody really knows if they will be abundant and in close to the shore though...




    Suma- technically claiming the gulf is oceanfront is accepable according to wiki:





    QUESTION: Is the Gulf of Mexico an ocean?





    ANSWER:



    It is a gulf by title, but part of the Atlantic ocean. It is a gulf because it is semi-surrounded by land on more than one side.

    How is scenic hwy 98 compared to Sandestin or FWB???

    We are in the process of narrowing places down and have come to the following:





    1. Waterscape in Okaloosa Island



    2. Beach Resort on scenic hwy 98 in Destin





    Can anyone help us decide??? We have 2 small kids so the pools at both seem really nice! I%26#39;m a little concerned about crossing the highway numerous times to get to the beach. We stayed last year at Hilton Resort in Sandestin, but it was March and really cold so we didn%26#39;t get to enjoy it as much as we would have liked. THanks for any help!



    How is scenic hwy 98 compared to Sandestin or FWB???


    I cant speak for Waterscape because I am not familure with it, but between Scenic 98 and Sandestin its a little different. The Hilton is on the beach side of highway 98 and we have a tunnel that goes under 98 to get to the bayside.





    Your little ones will have to cross the rd, which is pretty safe but if you are letting them go on their own I might be a little concerned as well.





    Sorry I might not be much help but i thought I would put my two cents in.



    How is scenic hwy 98 compared to Sandestin or FWB???


    There are crosswalks up and down Scenic 98... and the traffic is really good about stopping for folks crossing over to or from the beach... I wouldn%26#39;t let my kids cross the street alone, nor would I let them go to the beach alone even without crossing the street....

    Hey locals...how is the weather right now?? Beach??

    Hey locals...my husband, myself, and our 2 small kids are planning on leaving next Saturday. I have done the extended forecast and seen it will be in the high 70s (75-79). How is that for just hangin out at the beach?? We don%26#39;t plan on swimming in the ocean, maybe just getting our feet wet. We would like it to be warm enough to use the pool though at our condo as it has a great kids splash area. Thanks so much!



    Hey locals...how is the weather right now?? Beach??


    The weather is awesome this week!!!! For us older folks, the water in the pool and Gulf will still be cool, but for the kiddos they will be fine!

    What is great weather for the beach...high 70s nice & comfy?

    I have been watching the weather very closely as my family will be in Destin the last week of April. I found the extended forecast and it showed temps to be 76-78 degrees. It said real feel is 81. So...how does that pan out for the beach? Is that warm enough? We do not plan on getting in the ocean, but our little ones would like to swim in the condos pool as it has a great kids splash area. Thanks for your help! Oh, we could go the following week, but I%26#39;m not sure how much difference a week is going to make! Any help is greatly appreciated.

    What is great weather for the beach...high 70s nice %26amp; comfy?

    Plenty warm enough..... Wear sunscreen though.... There will be plenty of breezes so you really won%26#39;t notice your body soaking up all the rays...

    I spent a couple of hours on the beach yesterday and never broke a sweat....Got too much sun too! should have known better :(

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  • ittwit
  • Your honest opinion...

    In your honest opinion, how soon or how late in the year do you see Whales Tail being fixed up and opening it%26#39;s doors again? Just your thoughts on best/worst case scenarios...man i love that place!



    Your honest opinion...


    My best guess would be by July 4th.... but there are lots of factors involved.... but if it were my restaurant, I would make the earth move to get my beach restaurant open during the busiest time of the year....





    Too much money going to somebody else!



    Your honest opinion...


    I shot video early this morning of the workers. They are like ants rebuilding feverishly.




    i agree..i%26#39;ll be down there 6/28 thru the 4th, hopefully it%26#39;ll be open by then. Glad to hear they%26#39;re working hard on it, that place is def a crowd pleaser!




    I can%26#39;t believe I%26#39;ve never been there...someone tell me about it so I make sure to go!




    JoeMammy,





    Are you going to post the video?




    Late yesterday afternoon, there was nothing left but a concrete slab.... everything cleared away and ready to rebuild... Looking good for the summer!




    Interesting...wonder if they will use the same ';look'; when they rebuild it back up...

    Whale's Tail - Locals keep us updated

    Saw on waltonsun that it caught fire earlier this evening. Any updates?



    Whale's Tail - Locals keep us updated


    We now as much as you, however, I can tell you my power was on and off all morning then had a complete power failure for 6 hours. I was by there earlier and didn%26#39;t see a thing. I will read the paper in the morning and try to post again.









    MIRAMAR BEACH - The interior of the popular Whale%26#39;s Tail beachfront restaurant suffered smoke damage and parts of the roof were left charred after a late-afternoon fire broke out Saturday.





    South Walton Fire District Deputy Chief Sean Hughes said the restaurant and other businesses on Scenic Gulf Drive had been having intermittent problems with power throughout the day. He said the fire was likely ';electrical in nature'; and that the 10-15 mph winds had fanned the flames.





    Around 4:55 p.m., the power came back on after an outage and ';the staff noticed that there was some power arcing above the ice machine in the back of the kitchen, and they noticed some flames above the ice machine,'; he said.





    ';They evacuated the building and called 911, and when our units arrived, they saw smoke issuing from the building.';





    Dozens of firefighters from South Walton and Destin were at the scene, including two ladder trucks. A fire marshal was en route to the scene to investigate the fire as firefighters sprayed streams of water on a small fire still flickering out from beneath several shingles on the roof. Dozens of spectators watched while several firefighters pulled hoses to the top deck while police secured the scene with yellow tape.





    Terry Parker, a Miramar Beach resident, was inside the restaurant when the fire broke out and commented on how long it seemed to take for firefighters to arrive. And once they did arrive, ';they had no water pressure.';





    ';The firefighters had two cooks helping them run the water hoses,'; added Chris Pierce, a Santa Rosa Beach resident.





    Hughes said the restaurant - a completely wooden structure - has been standing for at least 30 years and weathered both hurricanes and tornadoes. The fact that it had rained for three days prior to the fire, leaving the outside of the wooden structure wet, Parker said, was probably its ';saving grace.';



    Whale's Tail - Locals keep us updated


    OMG! We stay very close to Whales Tail!! I hope things are ok there! Did you have tornados? WoW! Hope everyone is safe! Thanks semco for the updates. I see that there is a double red flag out today!! Bad rip currents? BarB




    Barb, we have had VIOLENT storms for 3 days. It will take a while for the water to calm.





    Here%26#39;s the story about Whales Tail in today%26#39;s paper.





    nwfdailynews.com/news/…fire_county.html




    It%26#39;s alot worse than the paper reported. Looks charred from the outside. Doubt they will be open anytime soon...





    I pulled off the road on Sat as all the firetrucks whizzed by.




    My guess is that olderhottie made the roadie out for Beer Fest, stopped in the WT for an ';afternooncap';, and her hotness caused the fire.



    Power arcing above the ice machine? Yeah, that would explain it. Bobbing for cold ones. 8-)




    That%26#39;s right Chief; It was me, I started the whole thing; accidentally of course!




    I was there right before it happened. The electricity must have just come back on because there was a long line to buy drinks. We decided it was too windy to eat outside on the beach, so we walked back to the condo. Before we got back we could see white smoke first, then heavy black, black smoke. We watched for awhile and figured it must have been a power surge or something like that.I think my son posted pictures and a video on facebook.




    In today%26#39;s paper.





    nwfdailynews.com/news/…whale_blaze.html




    Walls are being ripped down - They have a crew on site and at least one wall is now gone - Looks like it is pretty well gutted. - might have to be a total rebuild.

    Restaurant Suggestions

    I am coming into town next week for a conference. Statying at the Epic Hotel.





    Looking for a couple restaurant recommendations. Probably looking for Italian one night and any other recommendations. We would like to eat outdoors possibly and something with a nice water view.





    Thanks for any help you can provide.



    Restaurant Suggestions


    The Brasserie on Brickell Key is nice, no view though. Azul%26#39;s at the Mandarin oriental is amazing (probably the second best meal I have ever had, 1st being a great restaurant out in Bachelor Gulch, CO), very expensive though, its on the water. Oceanaire at Mary Brickell Village is a chain, but we always have a great meal. Smith %26amp; Wollensky is on the water overlooking the port of Miami, you can sit outside. Perricones on Brickell is good (i have only been there for lunch but I hear dinner is good too).







    smithandwollenskysteakhouses.com/index.htm



    http://www.perricones.com



    http://www.theoceanaire.com/



    www.mandarinoriental.com/miami/dining/Azul/



    Restaurant Suggestions


    Hi Red%26gt;





    At your hotel, the seafood restaurant Area 31 is lovely and has a great view.





    A few streets away is one of the loveliest Italian restaurants overlooking the bay, il Gabbiano at the Met.





    Definitely have a drink at the Viceroy Hotel just across the bridge from the Epic at sunset one night and check my map for a street guide to Downtown here:





    http://tinyurl.com/PORT-AG





    Also restaurant info here:





    http://tinyurl.com/EAT-AG





    Enjoy!





    AG

    Long layover at MIA, what to do?

    We arrive in Miami about 2:00 p.m. and our flight to Lima, Peru does not leave until near midnight. We will not have luggage to hassle, what can we do for 8 hours? should be back at airport by 10:00 p.m.



    Long layover at MIA, what to do?


    Miami is working toward connecting its airport to the mass transit system but isn%26#39;t there yet. The airport area is astonishingly congested, especially the north-south LeJeune Road. However, you can reasonably take a taxi (or perhaps even rent a car) and drive south, preferably from the rental-car area on NW 37th (Douglas Road) south to Coral Gables, an independent city dating to the 1920s, a short distance south of the airport. Miracle Mile has fancy shopping and there%26#39;s an abundance of eating places.



    Long layover at MIA, what to do?


    The Gables is a good recommendation and the closest but I%26#39;d avoid renting a car. Just grab a taxi. Coconut Grove is another option which has nice tree lined streets and alot of dining/entertainment options(shopping there is not great). Finally South Beach, you could make it there but I%26#39;d spend no more than 4.5 to 5 hours there. Leaving an hour to/from the airport just to be safe, though it shouldn%26#39;t take that long. Cab to South Beach would also be a little pricer than one to the Gables or Grove.




    Thanks for the input! We are anxious to start our trip.




    About how much is the cab to south beach now?




    Depends on zone in South Beach but it should be a flat rate between $28-$46




    cab it to Joe%26#39;s stonecrab for some claws and a keylime pie to go for your flight of course!




    You will probably find more of interest in South Beach than anywhere else. Cab from the airport to anywhere in SoBe will be $32.00 flat rate + tip. Same on return. Metered fare to downtown Coral Gables will be about $20.00 + tip.




    $32.00 is not bad for 3 people. If we asked to go to Versaces(sp) mansion, which I believe is 10th and Ocean Drive would that be a good place to be dropped off. We also arrive in Miami at around 2:00 and leave for Peru about midnight. Would love to have a great place to walk around, shop and have a good dinner before we go back to Miami Airport for Peru. Any feed back would be truly welcomed. This is going to be a trip of my lifetime. Machu pichu here I come - let alone being able to visit Miami on the way there and back. Thanks!!!!!!!!!!




    DEnver --





    Casa Casaurina (the old Versace mansion) is between 11 %26amp; 12 %26amp; Ocean Dr. Unless it%26#39;s an off hour, don%26#39;t ever take a cab to Ocean Dr. It%26#39;s one way %26amp; often jammed. Take the cab to the same cross street on Collins Ave %26amp; then walk the block to Ocean Dr. Both you %26amp; the the cab driver will appreciate the time saving.




    While I wonder about traffic logistics of getting to and from South Beach, the former Versace mansion is at a central location. Lincoln Road is the local restaurant row.





    The Versace building is distinctly not Art Deco, so it sticks out.

    Star Wars Weekends

    Star Wars Weekends are just around the corner! For all of those die hard fans out there, this is a great event! It will be hosted by Disney%26#39;s Hollywood Studios and run select weekends through June.

    The dates are:

    May 22, 2009 - May 24, 2009

    May 29, 2009 - May 31, 2009

    June 5, 2009 - June 7, 2009

    June 12, 2009 - June 14, 2009

    Watch all of the Star Wars motorcades, play trivia, go to the parade, or learn to be a jedi yourself!!

    Check it out if you%26#39;re into Star Wars and in the Kissimmee/Orlando Area!!

  • java
  • Can I use a phone card with my own mobile phone.

    I am going to Orlando in 2 weeks and intend to purchase a phone card to ring home. If I take my own mobile phone can I use it with the card and if so will it cost a lot? I%26#39;m not technologically minded and only have a pay as you go phone.



    Can I use a phone card with my own mobile phone.


    I have no idea :( I wouldn%26#39;t risk additional roaming charges though. They work easily from your hotel room or any public phone.



    Can I use a phone card with my own mobile phone.


    I believe you could, but you would not only be using your cards minutes, but you would be using phone minutes and roaming charges. I believe you can use it at any pay phone and possibly with only the card minutes being used, no pay phone costs?




    My initial thoughts were no, you can%26#39;t use them but just doing a quick search on a phone card provider%26#39;s website they say they do not recommend using them as you will still be charged international charges by your mobile phone company.





    So I would say a simple answer is yes you probably can but it would be pointless to buy a phone card if you are still going to be charged extortionate prices by your mobile phone provider.





    :o)




    Short answer: yes; it will cost well over 拢1 per minute.





    Basically, phone cards work by you calling a US ';free'; number (so you don%26#39;t pay anything into, say, a callbox). But ';free'; numbers aren%26#39;t ';free'; if you ring from abroad which, perversely, is exactly what you will be doing.





    You will be using a UK phone to call a US phone number. The call will (for billing purposes at least) go from the US to the UK and then back again. This means you pay roaming charges (to get back home to your own network) plus then the cost of calling to the US from the UK.





    Why not, instead, buy a Net10 mobile phone and use it to call home? You pay $30 and get a handset, charger, and 200 minutes of UK call time (or 300 minutes calling the US, or a mixture). Note that you can only call to UK landlines - not UK mobiles. You CAN call other US mobiles, and people can call you, too.





    Get it at WalMart or Walgreens.


  • eye liner
  • Baggage

    It has been awhile since I have been on a commercial flight. My DH, DS, 8 and I will be traveling nonstop on Air Tran from Iowa for a 7 night stay in June. We are staying at animal kingdom lodge. Do you experts just bring carry on bags and do laundry once? We are not going to buy loads of souviners. I might bring an expandable duffel just in case. I know beverages are not allowed. but can some food or individual powder drink packages like Crystal light be carried on. I was thinkin of ordering food and drink from the Garden Grocer. Has anyone had good luck we their services. Thanks for the tips.



    Baggage


    We try not to do Laundry but if you want or need to, the AKL has a nice Laundry Room, throw a load in while your in the Pool or having Dinner and go back for it later. The Dryers get very Hot so don%26#39;t put anything in that might shrink



    We have used GardenGrocer when staying in a Villa but have always found any snacks we might want at the Gift Shop and Food Court at AKL ( any Resort really) Get the refillable Mug, saves a lot on buying Drinks.



    You can%26#39;t bring any food thru Security, you can buy something after Security and take it on the Plane.



    A nice advantage to using Airtran is that you will be able to check your Luggage right at the AKL and get your Boarding Pass for your Return Flight :)



    Baggage


    Go Hawks!



    We always only take carry on bags because we don%26#39;t like to wait for our luggage at the carousel and it takes forever at MCO, but if you%26#39;re doing the free Magic Express it won%26#39;t be a concern (don%26#39;t know if Air Tran flies into MCO or Sanford though and the Magic Express only goes out of MCO).



    You can take food including powder for drinks in both carry on and checked bags, just not more liquids than your little zip lock bag holds.



    If you%26#39;re only planning to buy some snacks and drinks we too have bought those from the gift shops at the resorts. You may want to wait until you get here to see what%26#39;s available and the cost comparison and then decide if the delivery charge for the Garden Grocer is worth it.




    Baggage, slow? I%26#39;m accustomed to the bags reaching the carousels shortly after the first passsengers.





    Nevertheless, last time, my big bag got trapped at the door...dislodged it with the help of another passenger. Annoying, or what?





    As always, check Air Tran%26#39;s baggage policies.




    You definitely can bring food through security with you, but the food can%26#39;t be a liquid or a gel. In other words, you can%26#39;t bring yogurt or Jell-O or a jar of peanut butter, but you CAN bring a peanut butter and jelly sandwich (and ANY kind of sandwich) and bags of snack food and, well, I think you get the idea.





    In addition, AFTER you pass through security, you can buy anything available at the airport and then bring it with you on the plane. In other words, AFTER you apss through the security checkpoint, you can buy bottles of water or juice or whatever and bring it onto the plane with you. So, for example, you could bring your Crystal Light packets with you in your carry-on, then buy bottles of water after you pass through security, so that you can drink your Crystal Light on the plane.





    In addition, you are permitted to bring ANY liquids, gels, etc. in your checked luggage, your suitcases that go in the underneath of the plane (if you decide not to do just carry-ons).





    I%26#39;d love it if I could pack exclusively in carry-ons, just so we wouldn%26#39;t have to chance the airline delaying our luggage, but even with planning to do laundry I%26#39;m not that good at packing that light.





    I%26#39;ve never read any serious complaints about bad experiences with Garden Grocer, Gooding%26#39;s, or WeGoShop. Personally, I%26#39;ve used Gooding%26#39;s for each of my last three trips in the past 4 years.




    We have done the carry on and I have done laundry in disney, just save your quarters the first few days. It is not hard to build up quarters when spending money. They have a machine with all kinds of detergents and softeners too. I would bring a cloth laundry bag to bring the laundry there and back.





    My only complaint was the water is different in disney then I am used to, not sure why I noticed but I did.




    As for actually taking clothes to the laundry area, I always just found it easiest to use one of our rolling suitcases or carry-ons. I just stuff it all in on the way to the laundry, and then when all done I fold it nicely and it stays that way all the way back to the room.




    Could be the time of day we%26#39;ve flown in, usually late, but the few times we%26#39;ve had to check a bag it%26#39;s taken about an hour to finally get it. And forget any priority tagging. Maybe they think it%26#39;s funny to put them on the carousel last. Orlando is the slowest we%26#39;ve ever experienced.




    You can bring any food you want through Security except for liquids or gels so nothing like pudding in a cup or anything like that. We bring sandwiches,fruit,cookies,raw veggies and empty water btolles which we put in the sam ebin as our shows and quart sized ziploc bag and jacket. Then we get water on the other side of Security. Most of the bottles water they sell at the airports in New York is Dasani which we find disgusting-its tap water with chemicals as their label proudly states. Being crystal light and iced tea mix;its great in the parks-we are among those that don%26#39;t care for water in Florida(and Disney sells...Dasani water!)We only do carry on going to Orlando and do laundry depending on how long we stay-for a week,we would certainly do a load or two.Garden Grocer is fine if you have no access to a grocery store-they are expensive and charge a fee.




    http://www.ouc.com/home/water.htm





    The City of Orlando%26#39;s water is from deep wells and is ozone-treated. Might have a faint whiff of sulfur, perhaps.

    ESTA Helpline

    Hi,





    Can anyone please give me the number to ring for this helpline as I seem to be having a few problems.





    Thanks!



    ESTA Helpline


    i filled my daughters in on tuesday night and it came back as unathourised if you leave for 24 hours then try again it will go through



    ESTA Helpline


    I don%26#39;t see any helpline number. Contact details for the US embassy are on this page:



    http://www.usembassy.org.uk/ukaddres.html





    Noe the premium rate for visa enquiries - you may prefer to mail or email.




    There is no help line, there is an extensive 11 page help link on the official site.



    https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov

    Taking a large family to Daytona.......

    Hi guys,





    We want to take our family to Daytona for 4 nights this summer. We have four kids (ages range from 8 to 14), and three of their friends will be going with us. So, a total of 9 people. Do you guys have any ideas where we could stay? Do you know of any house rentals on the beach or any hotels that have ajoining rooms or suites? Please let me know if you would!





    Thanks a bunch,





    Kristy :O)



    Taking a large family to Daytona.......


    There are lots of condos for rent on the beach. The Best Western Aku Tiki Inn has adjoining rooms on some floors and some with kitchenettes. I am sure there are others on the beach that may fit your needs.



    Taking a large family to Daytona.......


    Can you recommend a website to use for Condo rentals? Thanks!!! :o)




    Maybe contact Bluzin (Renata). I believe she owns a condo in DB that she rents and she may know of other places to contact. She has a blog and is on TA Daytona Beach forum a lot.




    Okay thanks a bunch! :O)

    restaurants in International Drive

    Hi, me and my girlfriend are going to Orlando in two weeks and cannot wait! We%26#39;re planning on staying at the Quality Inn Plaza and was wondering what the best restaurants are around there? I%26#39;ve read that there are loads round the north part of I-Drive and don%26#39;t mind going there, but also would like ones near our hotel. Whats the best place for a buffet breakfast?

    Also, is it a common thing in orlando to get vouchers for cheaper meals? For instance, here in the UK we can print off vouchers off the internet for loads of restaurants for buy one get a meal free etc. Any good websites for orlando vouchers?

    Many Thanks

    Alex

    restaurants in International Drive

    More choices than you can imagine in easy walking distance, and more still a short bus ride away.

    Breakfast buffet - try Sizzler right outside.

    Dinner - across at Pointe Orlando there are many good choices. I like Red Rock Canyon Grille. And close by, for outstanding value is the italian-style Olive Garden.

    Take the bus down to Premium Outlets and go to Outback (Australian-themed steaks and grills - also excellent value).

    Plus the obvious TGIFridays and loads of others.

    Whilst I don%26#39;t recommend it as a means of transport (it%26#39;s route is too limited and there is a much broader alternative) the I-Ride trolley route map has a list of and approximate locations of, some of your choices:

    http://www.iridetrolley.com/pdf/marker.pdf

    restaurants in International Drive

    Try Red Lobster just north of Wet n Wild, I love their cheesy biscuits and the ceasar salad! Plus if you love seafood you%26#39;ll be spoilt for choice. There are meals for people who don%26#39;t want seafood either that are very good, and all reasonably priced.

    Try the IHOP for breakfast, that will probably fill you up till dinner time! haha!

    Also you have to try the Cheesecake factory (if you can get there) in the Millenia Mall, their cheesecakes are to die for!

    Search on here for it and others and you%26#39;ll get an idea of what%26#39;s good and what%26#39;s not so good. There is a list of restaurants which you can check through as they%26#39;ve all had reviews in here.


    excellent, I shall have to try all of those! Regarding transport, we%26#39;re not getting a rental car so would you recommend using lynx over other bus services?


    Hi

    Don%26#39;t know where it is in relation to your hotel but I would recommend Sweet Tomatoes. Buffet service with lots of salads which makes a welcome alternative. There are also lots of coupon booklets about in most shops which give discounts on eateries and attractions.

    80)


    Hi ADringer,

    Welcome to Trip Advisor!

    We%26#39;re at the Quality Inn Plaza right now! We weren%26#39;t up in time for breakfast I%26#39;m afraid but in a few minutes we%26#39;re going to head out to Cafe Tu Tu Tango for lunch. Bahama Breeze is planned for dinner tonight. I%26#39;ll let you know how it goes.

    Jennifer


    Hi - you can get loads of voucher books when you get there - they are everywhere.

    Also try www.orlandocoupons.com

    Have a great time.


    re ';would you recommend using lynx over other bus services';

    There are only two to choose from; one only serves I-Drive itself so is very limited; that%26#39;s the I-Ride trolley.

    The other is LYNX, which you can use to get pretty much anywhere you might want to go. And here is how:

    ***** LYNX BUS ROUTES ON INTERNATIONAL DRIVE *****

    From anywhere on I-Drive between Premium Outlets and Prime Outlets to:

    - Universal - 8 or 42 to a stop two lights North/East of WetNWild (look out for the Sheraton Hotel - distinctive cylindrical building with a wire-frame globe on top) at the intersection of I-Drive and Grand National Drive; If coming from the south (most hotels are south of this point) you%26#39;ll need to cross the street. Take 37 going West/South every 30 minutes (hourly at weekends)(destination - Park Promenade).

    - Sea World, Aquatica and Discovery Cove - bus 8 (frequent) from a stop on I-Drive.

    - Disney Parks (option 1) - bus 8 to any one of three or four stops near Sea World, then transfer to bus 50 express to Disney%26#39;s Transportation %26amp; Ticket Center. Use Disney%26#39;s free bus/boat/monorail to the parks.

    - Disney Parks (option 2) - bus 8 or 42 to Canadian Court (adjacent to the southern end of the Convention Center). If coming from the north, you%26#39;ll need to cross over I-Drive. Go into the mini-interchange in Canadian Court and take bus 111 (hourly) to the Transportation %26amp; Ticket Center. Use Disney%26#39;s free bus/boat/monorail to the parks.

    (I mention both of these mainly for coming back; you can get on 50 (destination DownTown Orlando) or 111 (destination Airport) - whichever comes first - but note that if using 111 you have to walk out of the mini-interchange and onto I-Drive for your connections.)

    - DownTown Disney - buses 50 and 111 both call there en route to/from the transportation %26amp; ticket center.

    You can also go by LYNX to

    - Premium Outlets - 8 or 42 south

    - Prime Outlets - 8 or 42 north

    - Florida Mall - 42 north from anywhere on I-Drive **or** 111 from Canadian Court interchange (runs once per hour but may be a lot quicker than the 42).

    - Orlando International Airport - 42 north from anywhere on I-Drive **or** 111 from Canadian Court interchange (runs once per hour but may be a lot quicker than the 42).

    - Millenia Mall - 8 or 42 north to Prime then 24 (hourly) to Millenia. Note the last 24 going back towards I-Drive from Millenia is at 6.18pm Mon-Sat and 5.48pm Sun. If you are later than this, you%26#39;ll need to use a cab. To minimise cost, you could take a cab back to Prime and then go the rest of the way by bus.

    - US192 in Kissimmee (e.g. for Old Town, Celebration) - travel to Disney%26#39;s Transportation %26amp; Ticket Center using either method above and then get LYNX 56 every 30 minutes to US192.

    - WALMART - The easiest store to get to by bus is on John Young Parkway. You need to be on bus 37. This service stops at just one stop on I-Drive, and that%26#39;s two traffic lights north/east of WetNWild at the intersection with Grand National Drive (opposite-ish the Sheraton Studio City hotel, which is a distinctive cylindrical building with a wire-frame globe on top). If necessary, take an 8 or 42 to get to this stop. Catch the 37 as it goes in the north/east direction (so, if you are coming from the south, stay at the same stop). After going through a residential area, the bus ends up going East on Sand Lake Rd. It turns south onto John Young Parkway and passes the front of the store, before turning left past some modern offices and then stopping at the rear of the store. This is where to get off. Ask the driver if necessary. And get the bus back from the same stop. 37 is every 30 minutes weekdays; hourly on Sat and Sun. Note also that this location is fairly close (but not walkable) to the Florida Mall, which is where the 37 bus is going. If visiting both, you might care to consider combining the two into one outing.

    etc............

    - Busch Gardens - you%26#39;ll need the Busch Gardens shuttle express which picks up at three places in the area - at ';Gooding%26#39;s Plaza'; (this is in the parking lot adjacent to Ripley%26#39;s Believe It Or Not and Charley%26#39;s Steakhouse, half a block to the south of Sand Lake Rd; I understand that Goodings has closed so the name may change at some point); at Premium Outlets, and at Sea World. (There may be other points, too). This is a once-per-day scheduled service, but you need to book in advance by phone to be sure of getting a seat. The price is very low and it%26#39;s free for holders of certain multi-park admission tickets (e.g. the type of Orlando FlexTicket which includes Busch). This service is not part of LYNX, but you can, of course, use LYNX to get to the pickup point if necessary. More details and online bookings here https:/鈥uschGardens.asp

    Obviously, if you are starting out close to a transfer point (e.g. if you are at the Sheraton Studio City, then you are already close to the 37 stop) you%26#39;d walk rather than taking the first bus detailed above.

    ***** LYNX TIMETABLES *****

    Download timetables for all these and other LYNX services at

    http://www.golynx.com/?fuse=cstm%26amp;app=route

    (home page http://www.golynx.com)

    ***** LYNX TICKETS *****

    LYNX costs:

    $2 each person one-way regardless of distance. Transferring buses (eg from 8 to 50 at Sea World for Disney) is at no extra cost so long as you ask for a transfer ticket when you board and pay.

    or

    $4.50 for an all-day ticket (if you are going to make %26gt;2 one-way trips in a day)

    You can buy one-way fare and one-day passes from the driver. No change given.

    %26gt;%26gt;%26gt; For best value and convenience %26lt;%26lt;%26lt;

    $16 for a week%26#39;s unlimited use. Buy in advance from the Official Visitor Center 1/2 a block north of Bahama Breeze on I-Drive, set at the back of a parking lot and indicated by an orange, yellow and black ';i'; sign. I understand, also, that you can pre-purchase passes on the website https://www.golynx.com/?fuse=shop%26amp;app=store and they will mail to overseas addresses (pick the $16 7 day pass). In any case, passes are validated on the bus the first time of use and the period of validity starts then.

    ***** FINALLY *****

    All the services I have mentioned above have a weekday daytime frequency of every 30 minutes or better except where stated and run every day of the week, including holidays. Most also run well into the evening. The last 50 out of Disney, for example, is at midnight every day. But do study the schedules for precise timings to minimise waiting and note that the number 8 bus stops running earlier in the evening on Sundays and you%26#39;d also miss the last 8 if you leave Disney later than 11 on a Saturday. 8%26#39;s are also less frequent later on than in the daytime. So take care if you are returning from Disney late on, esp. on a Sunday.

    Once you have LYNX passes, you won%26#39;t also need I-Ride passes. On the odd occasion that you do feel the need to ride the trolley, I suggest you just pay cash fare. LYNX stops in pretty much all the same places as the I-Ride, so you can use LYNX for any trips you would otherwise use the I-Ride main line for.

    LYNX services on I-Drive run until the small hours of the morning (earlier at weekends). They do get less frequent later on, so do take copies of the schedules with you.

    I would also emphasise that LYNX bus drivers are helpful, patient and co-operative for the most part and will answer questions and give guidance. You will quickly get the hang of it.

  • get rid or hyperhidrosis
  • DDP - should we/can we?

    Sorry if I%26#39;m asking a question that has been posted and answered many times before - I have done a quick search and not found the answer.





    Staying on-site for Christmas week. 2 adults, 1 child age 6 and 1 child age 2. We know 2 yo will have to share of buy meal separately, and I know we can also add DDP to our existing reservation.





    Are we able to get DDP without the park tickets? We can get 6 day park hopper MYW for about $750 so don%26#39;t need the park tickets. If we CAN get only the DPP, is it worth it? We were planning to hire a fridge and have breakfast in our room, then take sandwiches and snacks into the park for lunch and go out for dinner, maybe Golden Corral or Ponderosa. We%26#39;ve estimated about $100 on groceries for the week for breakfast and lunch, and maybe $200 for 6 buffet meals (the last night we%26#39;re going to Outback).





    Are these fair estimates? I can get DDP for 拢320 (about $500) for the week for all of us.





    Any thoughts?





    TIA





    CarolineJ



    DDP - should we/can we?


    No, you must at least buy one day%26#39;s park admission to qualify for the DDP as it must be a package deal.





    At Xmas time, with the extra dining surcharges they have, the DDP is more of a good value than ever; you must make sure you get reservations as soon as possible though as everything will book up very fast.





    If you don%26#39;t have a car to go out and about to other locations, I%26#39;d say definitely go with the DDP, but sounds like you will have a vehicle, so that may not be as much of an issue. Just make sure you can use all the credits for the DDP during your stay before you choose to buy it.



    DDP - should we/can we?


    Ah I see. The only meals we were thinking of having at Disney (and therefore booking) are the Crystal Palace Character Meal on Dec 23, Chef Mickey%26#39;s on Xmas Day and Wonderland Tea Party on Dec 28. (Though subject to change, depending on EMH!)





    Of course we%26#39;ll have ice creams etc, though our main lunch is going to be sandwiches. Just don%26#39;t want to tie ourselves down with reservations.





    Is the $300 for food all week a fair estimate?





    Thanks





    CJ




    Food budgets are somewhat hard to predict as prices may rise during the year, but even snack food and sandwich food can be expensive.





    Plan on budgeting about $10 per adult for smaller meals and $5 per child except for the 2-year-old.





    For larger, ';sit down'; style meals, usually need about $15 to $20 per adult and probably $10 or so for the child, and this is outside Disney.





    Here%26#39;s the current menu pages for the Disney food venues and their current prices:





    http://allears.net/menu/menus.htm




    Well chef mickeys and crystal palace are going to set you back over $75 a piece so thats $150 just for those two!





    For us..there are 6 of us altogether, kids want to do chef mickeys, garden grill at epcot and ohana breakfast at the poly. I added the cost of those three together and that came to over 拢300 (for us that is) where the dining plan came to just over 拢500. I felt it was worth paying the extra 拢200 for all the extra meals and snacks we would get. My lot love those frozen colas that cost around $3.50 a time, they are classes as a snack on the plan and my lot always like to eat in pizza planet which is always around $10 a head so it all adds up.





    I suggest you go through calculate the cost of your meals you really want to do then add on the 拢300 you think you will need with eating sandwiches and snacks and off site meals, i think you will be surprised. I know what you mean about being tied down to dinner reservations but you dont have to do that with them all just the ones you really want to do then organise the rest later.





    I wasnt going to get the passes either but i got a good deal on 14day passes fro the price of 7 and i was lucky enough to get free dining (but im going before christmas and free dining finishes before then)




    One other option to keep in mind where you say you will be doing dinner outside of Disney most nights is the Quick Service Dining Plan. It includes 2 quick service meals, and 2 snacks per day plus the refillable mug. Just another option instead of having breakfast in your room. I%26#39;m not sure the cost of this one.




    Well we%26#39;ve worked it out, doing a ';DIY'; dining versus DDP and (providing my calculations are correct) there%26#39;s a MASSIVE 拢7 difference! We%26#39;re going with DDP!





    Here are our choices (Disney say each of these are 1 credit table meals too - even on xmas day!)





    22/12 ESPN for quick service after check-in



    23/12 Crystal Palace



    24/12 Rose %26amp; Crown



    25/12 Chef Mickeys



    26/12 50s Prime Time Caf茅 (Half day AK for picnic)



    27/12 Garden Grill



    28/12 Eating out at Outback Steakhouse



    29/12 check out day





    I know we%26#39;re not going to be using all our table service credits, but any extra we can use on check out day.





    Any thoughts?




    You are staying 7 nights, yes ?



    You have listed 6 Table Service Meals ( ESPN will be a Table Service , not a Quick Service )



    The DDP Credits can be used for any Meal, not just for Dinner so I recomend a Nice Big Breakfast on the Day you Check-out, to use your last Table Service Credits. Your Credits are good until midnight the day you check-out




    I agree with partypa reserve something on your check out day. We booked a early lunch at Whispering Canyon to give us time to pack. We left Disney full. If you want a good breakfast that is not a buffet I would pick Kona Cafe in the Polynesian. Great breakfast!!!!





    I would also make on on your Outback day in case you decide not to leave Disney to go to Outback, then you can cancel the last day if you use your disney reservation instead of Outback. you might find once you get there you don%26#39;t feel like leaving to go to Outback.




    Heya,





    Party, will do that - can anyone recommend a good buffet-breakfast for that morning? Doesn%26#39;t matter if it%26#39;s park or resort as our tickets will be valid that day.





    Outback is a family tradition for the ';last meal'; so to speak, so I doubt we%26#39;d cancel, but will make a reservation ';just in case';. I quite fancy Supercalifrag.... breakfast. We%26#39;ll have a car, so can always get a late breakfast/early lunch, pack in the morning and then go.





    One thing that suprised me though, considering the meal prices are increased for the holidays, I was suprised to find that Chef Mickeys on Christams day is still only one credit and not two. I think had we been travelling at a different time of year, DDP wouldn%26#39;t work out such good value!





    CJ




    The Breakfast at 1900 Park Fare is Lovely, that would be a good choice. We also quite enjoy the Princess Storybook Breakfast at Norway in Epcot, food is yummy and the Princessess are great. Crystal Palace and Cape May Cafe are also good. Hard to go wrong with Breakfast at Disney :)

    Help Hotel Info needed

    I am traveling with my 17 yr old daughter and her girlfriend...We are booked at the Orlando Metrpolitan Resort but after reading the posts I am very nervous about cleaniness and being safe traveling with 2 girls...They decided that they would rather be in the Epcot area (we will be spending a day there)...I will have a car but I would like a hotel that has shuttle service...since this is a trip on a budget due to the fact I had to help some banks get out of trouble and pay bonuses to AIG...and I have not received a stimulus package or a bail out..I cannot spend over 120.00 a night...any experts know where I can stay with a continental breakfast a shuttle service but most important a NICE LARGE POOL because the girls main concern for their Easter break is coming back with ';like..a totally awesome tan';...I look forward to all your help!!!!!



    Help Hotel Info needed


    If you want to stay in Kissimmee and have a nice place with shuttle service, try the Best Western Lakeside you%26#39;ve seen here on this forum.



    Help Hotel Info needed


    mrsr12,





    I don%26#39;t know the exact numbers, but it would be well worth a phone call to check out the Disney on-property hotels. The bargains they are adverting locally are phenomenal.





    Normally, I would point you to something in Kissimmee like for example one of the Raddison properties, but in this economy you should at least ask the question.





    There is a Raddison that used to be a Hyatt at the corner of 192 and I-4 that has at least one nice pool and is about as close as you can get without being on Disney property.





    CTR




    The Comfort Suites Maingate East is located in Kissimmee just 2 miles from Disney. It is a Disney Good Neighbor hotel with a shuttle service. Also, there is a 24 hour pool, a pool bar, restaurant, and a continental hot/cold deluxe breakfast. Right next door is Old Town for some fun when you are not going to the parks!


  • eye liner
  • messed about by thomas cook-attractin tickets

    Where can we get disney tickets cheap with only a few weeks to go?



    we saw the information about disney ultimate tickets for 拢199 and tried to buy some at the week end. At the end of the process were were told we needed all dates of birth. As we didnt have two of them we were asked to ring back on Tuesday. we rang and after lots of messing about and diferent messages we were told that they didnt have any left so we would need to buy more expensive ones.



    I have tried other branches who have also said that they are sold out as they only have a few cheap the rest are expensive.







    any ideas who else has reasonable ones. we only want a few days at disney plus a day or so at the water parks. thanks



    messed about by thomas cook-attractin tickets


    You could try to look at



    www.undercovertourist.com



    Mutter



    messed about by thomas cook-attractin tickets


    You could look at http://www.park-tickets.com/ .





    If you only want a few days you can pick the option that you want, rather than paying for Ultimate ticket that you don%26#39;t really need. I know at the price you could have got for the Ultimate from Thomas Cook it was worth paying that but it is hard to find a price that good anywhere else, so it would be better value for you to just pay for the days you need.





    Otherwise try undercovertourist as suggested above.





    :o)




    what price did thomas cook have for the 7 day premium/5 day premium?





    other sites you could try:



    www.orlando-ticket-deals.co.uk



    www.attraction-tickets-direct.com

    Leaving on Saturday!!!

    Very very excited. Only 2 more days at work to go.



    Thanks everyone for the advice.



    A%26amp;A (currently over packing, how mnay shoes are too many ;



    Leaving on Saturday!!!


    Forget the Shoes, just wear some Flip Flops and get going !!!



    Have a Swell Holiday and don%26#39;t forget all of us, please write a Fun Trip Report when you return :)



    Leaving on Saturday!!!


    Thanks partypa, I have lots of flipflops too which I%26#39;ll wear in the day :)



    Will def write a trip report when I return. I have been to Orlando a few times but only found this forum for this trip, it%26#39;s been a big help.




    Shoes, why shoes, No shoes is my answer. However flip flops, sandles you can never have too many.





    Loads, a pair to match every outfit seems about right.





    Hope you have a wonderful holiday.




    Thanks Caz, I do of course mean sandals, of which I have many. Poor Mr A is only taking 3 pairs(I think) so I%26#39;ll be using some of his luggage...




    Happy holidays to you!




    Don%26#39;t pack too much - you%26#39;ll need to leave room for all your shopping! On second thoughts, you can always buy another suitcase! Have a great time.




    A and A





    Enjoy your holiday.





    Do not forget the sunscreen.





    I have seen too many vacations ruined by sunburns.





    When I went to the air show three weeks ago, it was overcast when I got there but cleared off. I was too lazy to go back to my car and get my hat. I paid for it the whole week.





    Be smarter than me.





    CTR




    Thanks everyone. Cruising retirement I have purchased factor 50, and 25 so hopefully we%26#39;ll be ok.





    1 more day at work!! Can%26#39;t wait, today was yuk, I made it through by thinking of that margarita by the pool!!





    A%26amp;A




    I also leave on Saturday! I can%26#39;t wait!




    Hope you have a great holiday!! Where are you staying? Have you worked out a itinery? Mr A and I are quite laid back about the whole thing and have vaguely picked a few things we want to go, guess we%26#39;ll be cribbing up on the plane!!!

    £199 for 14 day Disney Ultimate Ticket - Grab a bargain.

    Good morning everyone,

    I have just bought a 14 Day Disney Ultimate Ticket (not voucher) for 拢199 per person.

    Got them from Thomas Cook in Stirling - Telephone number : 0845 3089576

    I paid a 拢50 deposit today, 拢50 end of April, 拢50 end of May and the balance of 拢198 12 weeks before departure.

    So i have made a saving of 拢72.

    Thanks to Soaringirl for this info.

    Caz Essex X

    %26pound;199 for 14 day Disney Ultimate Ticket - Grab a bargain.

    Well done Caz, you got a great deal there..We paid 拢217 each along with our dining plan with Disney and thought we had got a good deal..

    See ya there at Christmas..lol

    %26pound;199 for 14 day Disney Ultimate Ticket - Grab a bargain.

    That is an excellent price and cannot be beaten. Currently retailing for between 拢230 and 拢240 on all other sites. Good info - wonder how long it will last...?


    Ooohhh yeah, i cant wait.

    I liked the idea that you can spread the payments out so you dont really miss it like a lump sum.

    Caz Essex X


    Opps that was supposed to be 拢100 end of May.

    I asked her how long it would last because my original plan was to buy one now and another in a few weeks. So that was when she came up with the seperated payments.

    So ive only 1 Orlando Flex Plus to get now.

    Caz Essex X


    Oh dear,

    Ive just phoned up Thomas Cook to see how much the Orlando Flex plus are.

    ';I was just about to phone you, when i went to enter your details, the price for a December ticket for 14 Day Ultimate is coming up as 拢265';.

    I am waiting for her to phone me back because she needs to check how long the ticket is valid for.

    I was told by a different Agent that they can keep the lower price if they enter that we are travelling in July, but the ticket can be used in December.

    So it might be that i havent got a bargain after all :o(

    Caz Essex X


    i just phoned them up for the flexi ticket plus and they have it for 150 on the other sites its 189 thats a fantastic deal


    Ok Thanks, If they honour the 拢199. I will book the Flex Plus as well.

    Am i right in thinking that they should honour the 拢199. Its not my fault they didnt enter the details onto the computer first. They told me the price and i gave them my card details so as far as im concerned they should give it to me at that price????

    Caz Essex X


    do they add a charge on for debit/credit cards


    拢199 here too from Thomas Cook, Gordon St Glasgow.

    They have two different systems for checking prices, it%26#39;s 拢265 on one, 拢199 on the other!


    Hi Caz i think since it is their mistake they should honour it. Show them ';The Gift of the Gab'; Girl.You can do it..lol

    let us know how you get on.

    Caroline

  • pets
  • 24hr deep sea fishing trip.

    Does anyone have the name of a charter boat the has 24 and 48 hour fishing trips located in Tarpon Springs. I can%26#39;t find there phone number and tried to google it with out success.



    24hr deep sea fishing trip.


    Try this:





    Dolphin Deep Sea Fishing - The Two Georges 727-937-8257

    Universal Tickets

    I am still unsure what ticket to get.





    I do not want an Orlando Flex, as we only want to do Universal/IOA





    I am tempted to go for VIP day express pass.





    I have looked into staying in a hotel, but that does not work out any cheaper.





    We usually buy the 2 day get 1 free offer, which nolonger exist. We used to buy a fastpass for 1 day, and just get there early on the other days and do our fav rides.





    I never think that 1 go is enough on some rides, you come off and want to go again.





    The VIP express is $149,99 and includes entry.





    I am thinking of just spending 1 full day, with a meal at hard rock for a break.





    With this ticket,you get entrance and unlimited fastpass.





    Has anyone done this before?



    Universal Tickets


    We got the week long pass and they were just $95 on undercover tourist and then we booked a room only for one night so we would be able to use the express pass from the room for two days. The rooms have come down slightly..I looked before and couldn%26#39;t find one under $300 and this one was $240. It worked out the same as just the express passes and this way we can stay closer for that night and we can ride unlimited, instead of just the one fast pass.



    Universal Tickets


    hi Asty



    I think UniversalOrlando.com has buy three nights and get two free so five nights. Have You looked the site up ?



    If You only would go Universal/IOA I would reccomend going into that site



    universalorlando.com/vp/bf/vp_2nts_free.html



    http://www.universalorlando.com/tickets.html





    this are the two links I would use.



    Mutter




    Thanks for the replys.





    I did not make myself clear.





    When I said we only want to do Universal, I meant that I am not bothered about any of the other options that come with the Orlando Flex Card.





    We are staying at a Disney Hotel, and will obviously spend a great deal of time there.





    I just want to visit for only 1 or days.





    I will take another look at a 1 night stay. Get 2 days admission and free fastpass.




    Hi asty



    I put two links for You



    but



    here is the one only for ticketshttp://www.universalorlando.com/tickets.html



    Mutter




    I found this the other day on the Universal website when checking out prices. It may be what you are looking for. I have posted the link below:-





    https:/鈥?/a>

    condo recs going with baby...need a condo and crib?

    Hi,





    We would like to take our infant son to Siesta Key and stay in a condo. There are SO many places to choose from and I don%26#39;t know which is better. Our son will be just shy of a year old when we go, so a crib is necessary as he is a roller and can%26#39;t sleep in a regular bed.





    I am hoping someone who has visited can point us in the right direction. This is what we are looking for. Thanks for any advice!





    1 or 2 br



    Beach access (do not want to cross streets)



    Crib available



    Pool



    Washer/Dryer in unit if possible, on property if not



    Price - reasonable...($200/night or less if possible, but not a deal breaker to get a nice clean safe location)



    Parking spot



    condo recs going with baby...need a condo and crib?


    Not too many of the condos or vacation properties keep cribs available. Mainly due to storage requirements and insurance purposes. There are a couple of rental companies available that will deliver and pick up where ever you are staying. I have used A %26amp; A before and have found the items to be clean and in good shape. When you decide on a location you can order it online or have the condo management help you. I also recommend bringing or renting a beach jogging stroller, regular strollers don%26#39;t make it through our sand very well and can really limit your ability to take a stroll on the beach. I rent those through Midnight Pass Bike and Kayak located in the shopping area at Old Stickney Point Rd. and Midnight Pass Rd.





    www.aababyrentals.com - for baby cribs





    Some websites to use for condo rentals for Crescent Beach





    www.vacationrentals.com



    www.siestakeychamber.com



    www.rentalo.com



    condo recs going with baby...need a condo and crib?


    Awesome info. Thank you sooo much!




    I have used ABC baby rental in the past and would I would highly recommend them. The staff is very friendly. All if the baby items that I have rented was clean and up to date. ABC is willing for a small fee to deliver and pick up item too! I will be using their services again this summer.


  • eye liner
  • 1st trip to Fort Lauderdale...

    Been to Fort Myers, Key Largo, Daytona, Islamorada, and Orlando. Never been to Fort Lauderdale. Technically I think the place we are staying is in Davie. Any suggestions. We%26#39;re a couple in our early 30%26#39;s. Any Tiki Bar style places near the beach to kick back and drink? Thanks!



    1st trip to Fort Lauderdale...


    If you%26#39;r staying in Davie, you are quite a bit west of the beach- and that particular area is sort of a combo of residential family housing and sort of cowboy/country atmosphere ( they have a rodeo.)





    Will you have transportation to get around? There is a large tiki bar at the Ocean Manor Resort on the north end of the beach- and the bar is much nicer than the lousy hotel in front of it. I would say though that the most popular bar for kicking back and drinking is the waterfront bar at the Bahia Cabana Days Inn(another lousy hotel with a great bar). It%26#39;s across the street from the beach , but right on the Intracoastal.





    Tiki Bars are not very popular here, in my opinion, but there are lots of other casual watering holes.



    1st trip to Fort Lauderdale...


    Well, we are staying with my wife%26#39;s aunt in Davie. One can save a lot of money that way. I%26#39;ve always loved the Tiki Bar down in Islamorada, that%26#39;s why I asked about a good bar on the beach. We are renting a car while we are there. We will be there from the 23rd to the 26th, just don%26#39;t tell my wife, she doesn%26#39;t know it yet. LOL. It%26#39;s a surprise anniversary gift. I%26#39;m sure her aunt will be able to tell us how to get places, I just don%26#39;t know that she%26#39;ll be up on where is good to go.




    Bamboo Beach is only one I can think of as she said




    Thanks for your help. My wife%26#39;s cousin said there might be better bars located on the beach at Hollywood. Any thoughts on that? Thanks again.




    A bit further north there is a bar called Aruba%26#39;s that is on the beach... I believe Deerfield Beach. In terms of Hollywood beach, there are many cute lil bars/restaurants on the boardwalk along the beach where you can people watch and get something cold to drink. None that actually stand out as ';must see,'; since they are all basically the same. Across the street, however, there are a few restaurants/bars that you might want to check out... Taverna Opa (loud, Greek, restaurant, belly-dancing and good times), Le Tub (cash-only, voted one of the country%26#39;s best burgers), Giorgio%26#39;s (more classy, Italian).




    Aruba%26#39;s is in Lauderdale by the Sea- at the Ocean end of Commercial Blvd, not nearly as far north as Deerfield- even south of Pompano Beach. They have music during happy hour and they do overlook the beach- not a tiki bar though.





    I would have to say I am not a fan at all of Le Tub- in spite of all the hype from Oprah%26#39;s friend Gayle. I%26#39;d encourage you to read the reviews posted on the Hollywood Forum- a great majority of those posting found it dirty with very rude slow service- and I would personally agree.




    Thank you for the clarification Lulutoo. I know that Aruba%26#39;s is not a tiki bar, but its a nice place to grab a drink/food and sit outside right on the beach, basically. Plus the view of the pier is nice.





    I completely agree with you about the slow service at Le Tub. During the day it is a bit nicer than the evening though. However, I would say its more like one of those places you eat at just to say you have.




    And let%26#39;s not forget to remind you that it%26#39;s really Hollywood broadwalk - there are no boards, so it%26#39;s not a ';boardwalk';.



    Check out Sugar Reef restaurant - great food!




    This is true, it no longer is made with boards, however, there was a time when asphalt and pavers were not there.




    Gosh Venis, were there ever boards? I%26#39;ve been here over 30 years and don%26#39;t remember boards........

    Help Please... are there any websites that....

    Can advise when the busiest/ least busy days are in parks. When i last went to Florida in 2005 I planned my itineray by theday looking at what parks are busiest on what days. I can%26#39;t find anything like thsi now that will help me :(

    I am going in October on the 29th for 3 weeks and will likely be visiting parks for the first 2 weeks of my stay in Orlando. I want to visit all parks (also Bush).

    Can anyone help me please?

    Thanks Gem x

    Help Please... are there any websites that....

    www.touringplans.com

    Help Please... are there any websites that....

    http://www.touringplans.com for Disney.

    Only the current month (I think) is free. For October you%26#39;ll need to either subscribe or buy their book, The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World.

    I prefer this one:

    http://www.tourguidemike.com (again for Disney)

    but it%26#39;s a bit more expensive than touringplans.

    I would try to avoid Busch Gardens on the week-ends.

    Jennifer


    We really need to wait and see what Disney%26#39;s EMH schedule will be in October before the ';park recommendations'; will be the most accurate.

    One thing I can say is don%26#39;t plan to go to MAgic Kingdom on any Monday as it%26#39;s one of the busiest days of the week at that park, regardless of EMH or not.


    www.undercovertourist.com has a general chart that outlines the busy days in each park which has always been very accurate for us (except at peak times like xmas and easter when everywhere is busy!)

    undercovertourist.com/united-states/florida/鈥?/a>


    Thanks for your help :) Does anyone know of any other free websites. I am sure i used a free website last time, also i planned it about 8 months in advance. Maybe things have changed since then :(

    Also are there any similar things for the other parks such as Universal, Seaworld nad all the water parks please?

    Thanks, Gem x


    Kat Cubs Fan what is EMH? Is it Extra Magic Hours? If so i am not staying on site so don%26#39;t think i can take advantage of thsi :(


    Yes, EMH are Extra Magic Hours, but it%26#39;s important to know what days they are on at the Disney parks even when you are not staying at Disney....in order to avoid those parks on the given days.

    If you cannot participate, you don%26#39;t want to be at a Disney EMH park that day; you want to go elsewhere, but you have to know what days to avoid which parks.


    thats a good point to factor in if you are staying offsite. it is better to AVOID parks that have EMH and go elsewhere. just for example, if magic kingdom has morning EMH then even if you get there for ';opening'; there will already be a big crowd in the parks. and if say Epcot has evening EMH you will get bigger crowds for Illuminations, etc. generally speaking EMH will attract resort guests so check the disney calendar before you go and avoid these

  • do for extremely dry skin
  • Is Madeira Beach Busy

    Is it busy or is business slow? We are due to come down 5/1 and I%26#39; wondering how busy it is. Thanks. I can%26#39;t wait to get there.



    Is Madeira Beach Busy


    It is a great beach and not that busy. We have been going down since 93 and LOVE it! It%26#39;s the kind of beach where you can enjoy yourself and still keep watch of your children.



    We are going down July 1-10! I CAN%26#39;T WAIT %26amp; keep counting down the days!! 80 MORE!!!





    Enjoy your time and definately go to John%26#39;s Pass!



    Is Madeira Beach Busy


    Audisdad,



    do you have any recommendations for casual/family dining at John%26#39;s Pass? This iwll be a daytrip for us - beach then some casual early dining.



    Thank you!!



    Ann




    Audisdad,



    do you have any recommendations for casual/family dining at John%26#39;s Pass? This will be a daytrip for us - beach then some casual early dining.



    Thank you!!



    Ann

    fishing from the beach?

    Hi



    Just wondering if you can fish from all the beaches?Do you need permit?



    thanks



    fishing from the beach?


    Yes you can fish from the beach. Of course, common sense dictates that you don%26#39;t fish close to where people are swimming. Non-residents need a license to fish from the beach. You can get one at the bait/tackle shop on Marina Blvd. in Holmes Beach. Good luck!

    Help with Hotel name??

    Hi,





    What is the name of the round hotel to the left of Wet %26amp; Wild if you are looking at it face on?





    Thanks,





    Zip



    Help with Hotel name??


    Hi, I think it is called something like Sheraton four points but not completely sure



    Help with Hotel name??


    Yeah I think the one you are looking for is Four Points by Sheraton Studio City x




    its not on the same side as wet n wild though - opp. is the four points by sheraton studio city with a globe on the very top. starwoodhotels.com/fourpoints/鈥?/a>


  • eye liner
  • Traveller Cheques

    Hi. I was going to get my money tomorrow but my sister has told me that a lot of places are not accepting travellers cheques anymore.

    I dont feel comfortable taking 拢1000 worth of dollars in cash and wanted most of it in travellers cheques.

    Does anyone know the score on this?

    Most places treated dollars travellers cheques as cash (with ID)when I went there in 2005.

    Thanks

    Traveller Cheques

    There are very few places that will not take TC`s so don`t panic. If they are amex it is better but you will not struggle to find places that take them.

    Have a great trip.

    Traveller Cheques

    Do you have a credit card, and the discipline to only spend what you can afford, and pay it off in full when due? Use it and get a better rate. Draw small amounts of cash from ATMs (using a DEBIT card ideally) for ice-creams and cab/bus fares etc..


    Thanks for your replies.

    I think I will stick to the travellers cheques as I dont trust myself with the credit card. Rubbish at budgeting with a card.

    I am bringing one but only using it for emergencies.

    Thanks :o)


    TCs (Amex brand) are better than the new alternative- the prepaid debit card.

    I%26#39;ve never had a TC turned down in the past, but I had my new prepaid debit card refused at Best Buy, Publix, aqnd a restaurant yesterday. THis time I thought I would try one out but so far it has been a bit of a disaster. It was accepted at Gap, and one restaurant so far. Today I wll try to get money out of an ATM. If that works, I may draw it all out.


    Amanx, which one have you got?


    i usually take a bit of both, if you loose cash its gone!, t.c are replaced whether lost or stolen and remember to keep ur chq numbers seperate from t.c themselves, me and my o.h swap so he has my numbers and i have his. neva had any probs using t.c, in the last ten years of visiting florida the only place that refused them was the disney discount shop in the florida mall. most places just treat them like cash, ive neva been asked for i.d though. maybe i have an honest face!


    forgot to add i usually get the american express U.S dollar travellers chqs.

    what ever you do not buy the american express sterling traveller chqs. we made this mistake on our first ever trip to florida bk in the mid nineties and found these a nitemare to ';offload'; as nobody would accept them.


    You should be fine with American Express US Dollar ones.

    My only caution would be not to get too many in high demoninations. Rather then problems accepting them, the greater risk my be some places not wanting or being able to make change if buying something small with a big bill.


    yeah thats true i always ask for no higher than $50 even when i get my dollars.


    We usually get a mix of cash, nationwide (though i know they have put fees on now) and travellers cheques. We usually get our money from crown currency and they can give you a mix if you want and take requests for low denominations.

    We had tc%26#39;s at xmas and had absolutely no problem using them in orlando or anywhere in florida

    xxx pug

  • advice around girls