Thursday, April 30, 2009

Sandestin to Host ArtsQuest Fine Art Show!

It's that time of the year! Sandestin is gearing up once again to host the ArtsQuest festival. Every year over 100 artist and many more art lovers travel from around the globe to attend this the show at Sandestin's Baytowne Warf. The festival starts May 9th (Mother's day) and concludes on the 11th. For more details visit our events calender and for hotels near by visit http://www.cheapdestinhotels.com/.

Thirsty Thursdays

The best place for Thursday night happy hour is the brand new Hyatt Place Orlando/ Lake Mary. Join us in the hotel wine bar and café each Thursday for live music, appetizers, buy one, get one free drinks and the chance to win a weekend getaway at Hyatt Place.

Date: Begins 5/07/09 and runs every Thursday thereafter.

Time: 5 – 7 p.m.

Tel # 407-995-5555

Website: HyattPlaceOrlandoLakeMary.com

Address: 1255 South International Parkway, Lake Mary FL 32746

Adjacent to Walgreen’s near the corner of Lake Mary Boulevard and South International Blvd.

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Church Street Orlando

Church Street in downtown Orlando is the nightclub district favored by young locals as well as out-of-town visitors who prefer their nightlife to be stroller free. Some of the most popular nightclubs in downtown Orlando are situated here, including Chillers (shown at left), Big Belly, Latitudes, and Antigua. Other dance bars, like Tabu Nightclub and Club Firestone, are located just off of Church Street on Orange Avenue.

The Church Street Station is clearly visible from the eastbound side of I-4 and spans both sides of Church Street and both sides of CSX’s A Line tracks. In the early 1970s the station was developed as an entertainment complex with bars and restaurants, and by the mid-1980s it was one of the top tourist attractions in the state of Florida. After Walt Disney World added Downtown Disney and Universal Orlando created CityWalk, tourists tended to gravitate to the nightlife offerings that were closest to the attractions, and many stores and restaurants at Church Street Station began to close down.

Today, Church Street Orlando maintains a smaller, but lively local crowd, with the added benefit of inexpensive, easy to find parking, plus a pub crawling atmosphere that is distinctly different from the larger, touristy crowds.

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

High School Dancers in Festival

If i am correct there are 8 high school and elementary school participants in this presentation. Some school participants are1. Lipata National High School2. Guindaruhan National High School3. Minglanilla National Science High School4. Tungkop National High School5. Tubod National High School6. Tulay National High School7. Minglanilla Central SchoolI could not remember the other high school and

Dancers of Kabanhawan Festival

More street dancers from Kabanhawan PicturesIn this post you will enjoy the cebu pictures of Kabanhawan DancersComment are very much Welcome--------------------------------↑ Grab this Headline Animator

Harbor Nights Primavera at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando®

A wine tasting, gourmet food and jazz event at the Italian-themed Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando. Featuring select wines and sparkling wines, gourmet food samples, live music performance by Michael Andrew & Swingerhead and a balcony music show paying tribute to Mama (Mia) on Friday , May 8, 2009 6:30 - 9:00 p.m.

The event will be at Harbor Piazza Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando5601 universal Boulevard Orlando, Florida 32819 and admission is $35 (general admission)$60 (reserved seating)includes private wine station and passed hors d'oeuvres. You may log onto LoewsHotels.Tix.com to buy tickets or call for more information, call 407-503-1200.

Free self-parking or $5 valet parking . The famous Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando re-creates the charm and romance of the famed seaside village of Portofino, Italy, right down to the cobblestone streets and outdoor cafes. As the premier luxury resort at Universal Orlando, the hotel offers the utmost in European style and elegance and is one of three themed, on-site Loews hotels. Featuring 750 rooms and suites, exceptional dining and a wealth of recreation, Portofino allows its guests to experience 'la dolce vita' - the sweet life - without traveling halfway around the world.

Monday, April 27, 2009

Maggiano’s Little Italy Restaurant

With authentic cuisine, generous portions, and family style dining, Maggiano’s Little Italy Restaurant has brought a bit of the “Old Country” to Orlando. Every dish is prepared from scratch, and every plate is full enough that most patrons will end up taking a bit of the Maggiano’s experience home with them at the end of the evening.Maggiano’s specializes in family style dining, so the entire table can enjoy a variety of entrĂ©e salads, pasta, seafood and meat dishes. Gluten-free pastas can even be prepared upon request. Everything is priced per person, so the plates won't stop coming until everyone has had a chance to sample each dish. Menu items include gnocchi in tomato vodka sauce, linguine with clams with a choice of red or white clam sauce, veal marsala, chicken parmesan, filet mignon, and a special “Sunday Only” Italian Pot Roast. The dessert offerings include tiramisu and Maggiano’s signature spumoni ice cream.

Located in the Pointe Orlando shopping mall on International Drive, Maggiano’s is walking distance from the Orange County Convention Center. In addition to lunch and dinner, Maggiano’s can also host banquet events; for more information, visit the Maggiano’s Web site.

Sunday, April 26, 2009

Mother’s Day Brunch at La Coquina and Cascade

Scrumptious gourmet fare at a fantastic value with spectacular view and Complimentary Valet Parking

La Coquina: Uniquely-presented in the style of a European Market, award-winning Brunch at La Coquina is the ultimate way to celebrate Mother’s Day. Offering a seemingly-endless buffet of gourmet new world cuisine, unlimited complimentary champagne and a panoramic view of swans gliding along private Lake Windsong, La Coquina Brunch is truly an experience to remember. Feast on mouth-watering entrees and irresistible desserts by the legendary, award-winning pastry chef of the year, Steven Rujak. Adults $69.00++ with raw bar and carving station/ Kids $34.50

Hours: 10:30am– 6 pm

Cascade: Cascade is the perfect spot to celebrate Mother’s Day with views of private Lake Windsong and a generous buffet of classic favorites and inventive new dishes. Adults $59.00 and Kids $29.50++

Hours: noon– 4 pm

Reservations Strongly Recommended Call 4072393853

Located in the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress
1 Grand Cypress Boulevard Orlando, Florida 32836

Hyattregencygrandcypress.com

Saturday, April 25, 2009

Kabanhawan Festival Video - Cebu

The 7 minutes presentation of Minglanilla National Science High School thatgather prizes during Kabanhawan Festival 2009 Celebration.




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Minglanilla National High School - Street Dancing






This is the street dancing during Kabanhawan Festival 2009of Minglanilla Cebu performed by Minglanilla National Science High SchoolEnjoy more videos in the future here.Comment are very much Welcome--------------------------------Posted for the benefit of Virtual Assistant Service↑ Grab this Headline Animator

Kabanhawan Minglanilla Street Dancing

Kabanhawan Street DancingFirs Place winner in street dancingis Tulay National High School located East of the town.




For those interested to visit Kabanhawan Festival.The town is Minglanilla which is located 19km or 1 hr south of Cebu City.Kabanhawan is held every Pasko ng Pagkabuhay. Eastern Sunday.Comment are very much Welcome..--------------------------------↑ Grab this Headline Animator

Top 3 List of Must Do's at Walt Disney World

Disney guests who want to be literally in the middle of the theme park action are in for a treat – or three – at Walt Disney World Resort this spring. Imagine performing a vocal onstage in front of a thousand people. Or being part of an audience that evaluates and votes on vocal performances. Or playing the role of a world adventurer crusading to thwart the bad guys. Or a party-goer who “gets down” and dances in the street.

Three new experiences will allow spring vacationers to participate in all those activities following debuts in late January and February of ‘The American Idol Experience’ at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure at Epcot and “Move It, Shake It, Celebrate It!” Street Party at Magic Kingdom.
Here’s a snapshot of each experience:

The American Idol Experience” – Starry-eyed Disney guests get a taste of the pop culture phenomenon “American Idol” – up close and personal by experiencing the challenge of auditioning and the rush of performing onstage in competition or judging the performances in a live interactive setting modeled after the “American Idol” set. There are several show times daily. Guests advancing through the screening process to the nightly final competition can earn a guaranteed reservation for a regional audition for the “American Idol” TV show by topping the audience voting.

Disney’s Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure – In an experience inspired by Disney Channel’s Emmy Award-winning “Kim Possible” animated series, guests become secret agents to save the world from comical villains and their mad inventions in this interactive adventure packed with mystery and excitement. Guests team up with members of Team Possible in this high-tech adventure in Epcot’s Mexico, Norway, China, Germany, Japan, France and United Kingdom pavilions. Each pavilion features a different mission and villain from the TV series.

Move It, Shake It, Celebrate It!” Street Party – It’s party time when a cast of Disney characters, stilt walkers and other performers processes down Main Street, U.S.A. toward Cinderella Castle to high-energy tunes such as “Breakout” and “I Like To Move It.” Floats decked out as gift-wrapped packages are part of the procession, and near the castle, Mad Hatter, Genie, Lumiere and Sebastian – the life and light of the party – pop out of four huge boxes. They join about a dozen other Disney characters headed by Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse to mix and mingle and dance in the street with Magic Kingdom guests during a 12- to 15-minute party that takes place three times daily.

While in Magic Kingdom, guests may want to check out the “refreshed” 3 o’clock parade. New music, new costumes and some new float dĂ©cor are now part of the parade. The procession also makes more stops – during which party dancers perform to get guests into a celebratory spirit. And to go with the changes, the parade has a new name: “Celebrate A Dream Come True.” It and the street party are part of Disney Parks’ program “What Will You Celebrate?” which began in January.

Friday, April 24, 2009

UCF Orlando

Most people think of Orlando, FL as the tourism capital of the southeastern United States, but did you know that it is also a college town? The University of Central Florida has more than 50,000 students attending classes on UCF’s main campus on the east side of Orlando (just take University Avenue all the way east) and its 11 regional campuses throughout Central Florida. Many UCF graduates remain in the Orlando area, making UCF Knights bumper stickers almost as commonplace as Walt Disney World antenna toppers.

Compared to Florida State, the University of Florida and the University of Miami, UCF is a relative newcomer, founded in 1968. Forty years later, UCF has become the fifth-largest university in the nation, and it is still expanding with the newly established College of Graduate Studies and the College of Medicine.

The College of Medicine is particularly exciting for local residents because it will create thousands of jobs as part of “Medical City” of research institutions and hospitals being built in the southeastern part of Orlando. The UCF College of Medicine is the first medical school in US history to offer full four-year scholarships to an entire class—over 4300 applicants competed for 40 slots in the new Med School. UCF area hotels

Thursday, April 23, 2009

Route 46

Route 46 Entertainment District® is Seminole County’s new entertainment hot spot. Guests experience the charm of old Florida highway culture with a modern day spin by offering dining, entertainment, live music, dancing, and so much more! Route 46 Entertainment District® offers other dining options:


The Smokehouse at Route 46®– Perfect for any occasion. Savory, bold, smoked meats offered with fast service in a cozy cabin setting, with take-out and catering options available. It’s not your typical barbecue, sauce is not required!


Monroe’s at Route 46® – Upper casual dining specializing in classic American cuisine. Everything from steak to seafood presented in an intimate atmosphere with truly inspiring flavors, making it an exceptional dining experience.

The Saloon at Route 46® – A refined lounge with cozy spaces, constructed of handcrafted oak woods. Partake in a classic cocktail, appetizer, dinner, and great conversation. It’s perfect for an evening with friends.


Private event space and catering services are also available at Route 46 Entertainment District®. From board meetings to weddings, any type of event can be hosted on the property. Offsite catering and party packages are available with a wide array of culinary options: smoked barbecue meat, unique desserts, delectable hors d'oeuvres, steak/seafood ensembles, and more.


Nestled between Daytona Beach and Orlando’s tourist attractions on the I-4 corridor, Route 46 Entertainment District® is the perfect destination for all ages and personalities. Offering a wide variety of dining and entertainment experiences in the northern Orlando market, Route 46 Entertainment District® is accommodating, convenient and most importantly fun!


Route 46 Entertainment District® is privately owned and operated. It was developed based on the love of the bygone days, which encapsulates the integrity and pride of craftsmanship and service of that era. Route 46 Entertainment District® is operated under a team of individuals who share the same goal – to deliver the ultimate experience to each guest.


Route 46 Entertainment District® is located at the corner of S.R. 46 and Elder Road, next to BJ's Wholesale Club. Garage Bar at Route 46 and please Please visit http://www.blogger.com/www.route-46.com for more information.

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Great American Pie Festival April 25 – 26

In what has become a traditional rite of spring for the city of Celebration, FL, the Great American Pie Festival returns to Lakeside Park April 25 – 26. The festival will be open 11:00 am – 7:00 pm on Saturday, April 25 and 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm on Sunday, April 26.

The highlight of the Great American Pie Festival is the never-ending pie buffet, featuring pies from Bakers Square, Bonert's Slice of Pie, Edwards, Key West Key Lime Pie Co., Inc., Mrs. Smith's Bakeries, Publix SuperMarkets Inc., Rocky Mountain Pies, Sara Lee Bakery, California Raisin Marketing Board, Schwan's Bakery, Village Inn Restaurants and Wick's Pies. Admission to the Never Ending Pie Buffet is $10 for adults, $5 for seniors and children age 6-12.

The event also features a kids’ area with games, crafts, pie making activities and inflatables. There will be live entertainment and cooking demonstrations on the main stage, and a pie eating contest for the die-hard pie lovers as well.

That same weekend Ramada Orlando Celebration Resort and Convention Center is hosting the 2009 APC Crisco® National Pie Championships®. This contest is an opportunity for professional and amateur bakers to compete for a $5,000 grand prize. Junior chefs (ages 14 – 17) can also enter pies to compete for a $1,000 gift certificate to the Chef Depot, a source for all Professional Chef Tools. For the past several years the Food Network has covered the National Pie Championship and broadcast a special presentation on the event in the fall.

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Garage Bar at Route 46™ is Now Open

Route 46 Entertainment District® opens its fourth and final venue, the Garage Bar at Route 46™. The Garage Bar at Route 46™ takes guests on an exhilarating ride by incorporating hot rods, classic car collectibles, and vintage cars with innovative lighting and sound. The Garage Bar’s motto is “This is not your parents’ watering hole! It’s cool, flirtatious and combustive.”

Garage Bar at Route 46™ brings a whole new experience in nightlife to Seminole County. Fun and energetic bartenders serve up serious libations, while keeping guests entertained. There will be nightly specials happy hour to late night. Garage Bar at Route 46™ also has a full service restaurant. From Riblets, Mini Sandwiches to signature Smoked Chicken Wings, this is not your typical bar food fare.

Garage Bar at Route 46™ is and indoor/outdoor bar that features a deejay booth along with an outdoor dance floor and stage called the “Main Stage.” Garage Bar at Route 46™ doesn’t discriminate when it comes to music and entertainment. From rock, country, blues, pop, dance to jazz, Route 46 celebrates all types of music. Deejays perform nightly and live entertainment is featured on weekends. “We continue to add entertainment at Route 46 Entertainment District!”
Check out the entertainment/event calendar at http://www.route-46.com/ . Route 46 Entertainment District® encourages guests to join the Route 46 eClub to get the latest news on upcoming entertainment, events and special offerings.

Hours of operation are Sunday 2:00 pm – 2:00 am, Monday – Tuesday 4:00 pm – 11:00 pm and Wednesday – Saturday 4:00 pm – 2:00 am.

The Garage Bar at Route 46™ also offers accommodations for private parties. It’s the premiere spot for VIPs, bachelor/bachelorette parties, anniversaries and birthdays. To be considered for a performance at Route 46 Entertainment District®, entertainers are asked to fill out booking request form at www.route-46.com/booking. Entertainers that do not have an electronic press kit, can mail or drop off a press kit to the mailing address below. Do not call Route 46, please be patient as Route 46 receives many submissions every week.

Come experience the roar of the Garage Bar!

For more information, please visit route-46.com or call 407-268-4646.

Monday, April 20, 2009

Orlando 192

For budget-minded Orlando visitors, US 192 in Kissimmee offers the proximity to Walt Disney World that vacationers are looking for without the higher prices found at the WDW property hotels or the crowds that fill the busy tourist district on International Drive.

Many of the hotels on US 192 include “Gateway” or “Maingate” in the name if they are within five miles of the main entrance to Walt Disney World. At its busiest point close to the Interstate 4 interchange, US 192 runs east-west, so many of these hotels have the distinction of being “Maingate East” or “Maingate West” depending on what side of Walt Disney World the accommodations are located. When booking a hotel in the Orlando 192 area, look for the “Walt Disney World Good Neighbor” label, which means that Disney shuttle services and ticket sales are usually available.

Right off of US 192 just east of I-4 is the town of Celebration, FL, which is a Disney-inspired example of urban planning. With a lively town center and plenty of outdoor cafes and boutique shops, Celebration frequently hosts festivals and other events that draw visitors from across Central Florida as well as tourists who enjoy making a side trip from their Disney vacation.

Sunday, April 19, 2009

Larger Updated Destin Hotel Map

One of the most used features on Cheap Destin Hotels is the interactive Destin Hotel Map. We have recently decided to expand the size of the map, add more hotels, and add a direct link and photo for each hotel. In the near future we intend to post details and reviews on the map. When searching for a hotel every little detail helps and Cheap Destin Hotels strives to offer the tools you need. Keep a look our for more new exciting features in the future.

Stomp Broadway

STOMP is explosive, provocative, sophisticated, sexy, utterly unique and appeals to audiences of all ages. The international percussion sensation has garnered an armful of awards and rave reviews, and has appeared on numerous national television shows.

The eight-member troupe uses everything but conventional percussion instruments – matchboxes, wooden poles, brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters, hubcaps – to fill the stage with magnificent rhythms. As USA Today says, "STOMP finds beautiful noises in the strangest places." STOMP. See what all the noise is about. CLICK HERE TO BUY TICKETS Password: STOMP JUNE 9 - 14, 2009 Carr Performing Arts Centre

Saturday, April 18, 2009

How to Get the Most out of a Disney Park Visit

How can a guest get the absolute most theme park fun – and value – out of a Walt Disney World visit?
The overarching tip is: Get to know the territory. Do research. Ask questions.
Several means to this end are:

Read a guidebook.
Visit the official Walt Disney World Resort Web site (http://www.disneyworld.com/) and obtain a free vacation planning DVD; at the site, also check out the online planning tools which offer suggestions about experiences which may be of interest to first-time guests or to those combining a celebration with a Disney vacation.

Consult with the Disney World Moms Panel (http://www.disneyworldmoms.com/) comprised of Disney-savvy parents who share knowledge in an online forum.
The information gleaned from a combination of sources may lead a guest to conclude – correctly – that many considerations are involved in getting the most out of the theme park experience. Furthermore, many of the considerations ultimately involve a guest’s interests and individual circumstances.


For instance, while the four Walt Disney World theme parks are all created for family fun, virtually any guest familiar with Disney World has a “favorite park.” That’s because the parks’ themes vary dramatically – from lands of whimsy in Magic Kingdom to worlds of scientific and cultural accomplishment at Epcot to streets, sets and backlots of show business at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, to realms of animals living, extinct and imaginary at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Guests are immersed in those thematic worlds through stories “told” in attractions and experiences. But the methods of immersive storytelling are many. Sometimes a physically interactive entertainment concept is used, with guests being drawn into the action and becoming stars of the show. Sometimes ride systems carry guests on journeys that range from tame to wild – just like the stories. And sometimes the experience is physically passive, designed for the senses to “drink it in.”

With “homework” ahead of vacation, a guest can customize an itinerary to suit interests as well as considerations such as age, height restrictions and ambulatory limitations. A valuable source of information relating to “Traveling With Little Ones” and “Guests With Disabilities” is http://www.disneyworld.com/. (On the home page, under the heading “Plan Your Vacation,” click on “In-Depth Planning Topics” for links to specialized information.)

Many considerations that impact satisfaction are common to all guests. They involve tickets, time and convenience. Here’s a closer look at some aspects of ticket-buying, time use (plus time saving and time “expanding”) and guest services that can add up to an exceptional, value-enhanced theme park experience.

Other related links
Guests Choose Their Destiny in Star Wars™
407 Orlando
Lynx Orlando
Family package at JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes...
Gators, don't miss this year's Central Florida Gat...
Easter sunrise service at SeaWorld
Disney's Characters in Flight
Celebrating Easter at Walt Disney World
Yanni Concert Tour
Smokey Bones Bar and Fire Grill

Friday, April 17, 2009

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge recently welcomed a new “resident” – a Ruppell’s Griffon Vulture hatchling that is a member of a threatened species. While weighing less than six ounces and about eight inches long when hatched, a vulture could grow to reach sizes close to three feet in height, with a wingspan of nearly eight feet, and can weigh 15-20 pounds. The baby, born in early 2009, and its parents reside on one of the unique resort’s savannahs at Walt Disney World Resort.

Thursday, April 16, 2009

Kabanhawan Morning Activities

Annual Carabao RaceIn full speed. This man got the semi finalOn the spot painting competitionThe Championship levelEveryone enjoy the morning activity.Comment are very much Welcome--------------------------------↑ Grab this Headline AnimatorFor more kabanhawan festival schedule.

Palm Sunday in Cebu

I am lucky to participate this Palm Sunday despite of mysuper busy timeComment are very much Welcome--------------------------------↑ Grab this Headline Animator

Tren-D, New Downtown Disney Retail Offering, Blends Retro Style and Current Trends with a Touch of Disney

A stylish boutique with designer flair and eclectic offerings becomes a premier shopping spot at Downtown Disney Marketplace with the March opening of Tren-D. The urban-inspired Walt Disney World specialty store is a one-of-a-kind, hip destination for fashion-conscious shoppers seeking trendy apparel and novel accessories.

“This unique environment, filled with textured fabrics, new silhouettes, and whimsical art and design allows us the opportunity to push the creative envelope as it relates to fashion and our characters,” said Mark Perrotta, director of Product Development and Design. “Our guests continue to respond to trend merchandise and novel products that they can’t purchase at home. Tren-D speaks to what is happening today with a blend of vintage and hip with stylized Disney influences.”Offerings include organic loungewear, embroidered handbags, jeweled sunglasses and trendy accessories set among stylish art and unique furnishings.


The eclectic environment offers a raw and unfinished feel with jeweled chandeliers, distinct fixtures and mod furnishings.Much of the merchandise will not be available anywhere else at Downtown Disney. Designers such as Kidada Jones, Tarina Tarantino and Roxy will showcase their artistry – blending it with Disney-inspired creations.“With its exclusive product lines and new environment, we think Tren-D will complement the existing merchandise offerings at Downtown Disney,” said Perrotta.Tren-D is in a 2,500-square-foot venue near Pin Traders and Once Upon A Toy.

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Guests Choose Their Destiny in Star Wars™

There's an exciting way for Walt Disney World guests to choose their Star Wars destiny -- be it Jedi or Sith -- and live their adventure inspired by a galaxy far, far away.

Located at the Once Upon a Toy store at Downtown Disney Marketplace is the Build Your Own Lightsaber kiosk, a step-by-step, Star Wars merchandise experience that invites guests to build custom lightsabers with thousands of unique possibilities.

The experience takes guests through nine steps in which they choose every part of their lightsaber, including the color of the blade, sleeve rings, hilt sleeves and ignition switches.

Each lightsaber features authentic Star Wars sound effects, and guests can select colored crystals and filters to cast the legendary glow of the lightsaber blade (purple, green, red or blue).

From the start, guests opt for a Jedi or Sith lightsaber, with bins of custom parts available for each order. Guests can create their very own design or follow instructions to replicate lightsabers used by such favorite Star Wars characters as Anakin Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenobi and Darth Vader. Each electronic lightsaber features specialized lights, sounds and vibrations.

Once complete, guests proceed to checkout where they receive batteries to power up their creation and a store-exclusive Jedi or Sith pin.

No matter how elaborate the design -- guests can even create the double-bladed lightsaber like the one made famous by the evil Sith apprentice, Darth Maul -- each completed lightsaber is $19.95.

The Build Your Own Lightsaber display is the latest in customizable merchandise experiences at Once Upon a Toy, joining the Build Your Own Potato Head and Create Your Own My Little Pony areas.

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

407 Orlando

The 407 area code covers the city of Orlando, and is the main area code for Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties as well as parts of Lake and Volusia counties. Orlando is the county seat of Orange County, and Osceola and Seminole are the counties directly to the south and north of Orange County, respectively.

Like many parts of the country, Florida has experienced a boom in area codes over the past two decades as cell phone usage has increased—and in the case of the Sunshine State; there has been a population boom as well. The 407 area code was created in 1988, and it was carved out of the older 305 area code that used to cover Central and Southeast Florida all the way down to the Florida Keys.

Since 1999 there has been an area code split in Central Florida with the 407 and 321 area codes, so an incoming phone call with either the 407 or 321 area codes would be a call from the Orlando metropolitan area. Central Florida residents also have to dial the three-digit area code plus the seven-digit number when making a local call.

Monday, April 13, 2009

Lynx Orlando

In and around The City Beautiful, Lynx buses provide a valuable service fulfilling Orlando’s public transportation needs. These colorful buses are easy to spot, and most vehicles even have a small bike rack for commuters. There are over 75 Lynx bus routes in Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties, and until Central Florida gets the proposed SunRail commuter trains, Lynx buses are the only public transportation in town, covering an area of more than 2,500 square miles.

If you are a new Lynx passenger who is unsure of which route to take, the Lynx Web site’s trip planner can assist travelers if they enter their starting point and destination. Several Lynx routes go to the Orlando attractions, including Downtown Disney, Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Universal Studios, and International Drive. Several Disney resorts and other hotels are also on Lynx bus routes, including the All-Star Resort, Coronado Springs Resort, Yacht and Beach Club on Link 303, and the Orlando Marriott World Center and Caribe Royale Resort on Link 304.

Sunday, April 12, 2009

Family package at JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes

From now until the end of the year, the JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes is currently offering a family package starting from $219 per room per night, with full access to many of the upscale amenities that make the JW Marriott an ideal place to spend a relaxing day in the Sunshine State.

This package includes:
• Two connecting deluxe rooms (1 King to Double/Double)
• Breakfast for 2 adults and 2 children (12 and under) in the Citron restaurant
• Complimentary self parking
• Unlimited amenities in the resort pool area, which includes an extensive lazy river that links the outdoor heated pools together
• 25 game tokens for the JW Marriott game room
• Unlimited ice cream for kids (12 and under)
• Guaranteed 2:00 p.m. checkout
• Complimentary use of the fitness center in the adjoining Ritz Carlton

Actual rates vary depending on date of reservations. The JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes is just a few minutes away from SeaWorld, Discovery Cove and Aquatica, and is also close to Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando. The resort shares the Grande Lakes property with the Ritz Carlton Orlando.

Saturday, April 11, 2009

Gators, don't miss this year's Central Florida Gator Gathering with football coach Urban Meyer!

Doors open at 11 a.m., program begins at 11:30 a.m.; Coach Meyer speaks at noon, and BBQ will be served at 1 p.m. and the fun continues until 3 p.m.! Then, head across the street to Ceviche for our after party, enjoy drink specials and watch the 2008 BCS National Championship Game -exclusively for Gator Gathering attendees!

Activities include: Autograph Session with Coach Meyer*, pictures with Albert and Alberta, casino games for Gator Memorabilia, a Gator Bounce House and inflatable games (weather permitting), LIVE Gators from Gatorland, face painting, balloon animals, raffle, silent auction, Gator vendors, and lots of Gator Fun!


Advance Tickets - REGISTER NOW!UF Alumni Association Members: $20Non-members: $30Children (under 12 years): $10
Exclusive Reserved Seating Tickets - UF Alumni Association Members $40Non-members $50Children (under 12 years) $20This year, reserve exclusive seating with excellent viewing of the Coach's presentation! Your seats will be reserved around the main stage and throughout the balconies of Cheyenne Saloon with excellent views. Regular price, non-reserved Advance tickets are first-come, first-served seating and may result in standing room only.


Tickets at the Door (if available)Members $30Nonmembers $40Child (under 12 years) $15
PURCHASE TICKETS ONLINE NOW Hotel Rooms in Orlando

Friday, April 10, 2009

Kabanhawan Festival 2009 Schedule

Kabanhawan Festival 2009April 4, 2009 Disco April 5, 2009 Liveband April 6, 2009 Bulilit Singing Edition (Age 6-12() April 7, 2009 Teen Edition (Age 13-19) April 8, 2009 Group Dance Competition (Inter-School and Open Category) April 9, 2009 Search for the Singing Star (Age 20-35) April 10, 2009 Lenten File Showing (Praise and Worship) April 11, 2009 Lenten

Easter sunrise service at SeaWorld

Orlando vacationers will be able to celebrate Easter Sunday on the road at SeaWorld Orlando’s Bayside Stadium for the annual Z88.3 Easter sunrise service, to be held this Sunday April 12 at 7:00 a.m.

The service is sponsored by local Christian radio station Z88.3 FM and doors open at 6:00 a.m. Admission and parking are free, but admission to SeaWorld after the service is not included. According to the Z88.3 Web site, a love offering will be taken at the service.

This year’s featured guest speaker will be Lisa Whelchel, founder of MomTime Ministries and best known for her portrayal of Blair Warner on the 1980s sitcom “The Facts of Life.” The service will be led by musical artist Big Daddy Weave. Last year, over 5,500 people attended the Easter Sunrise Service.

Thursday, April 9, 2009

Disney's Characters in Flight

Downtown Disney guests will get a bird's-eye view of Walt Disney World Resort as they soar to new heights in a new attraction now open at Downtown Disney's West Side near Pleasure Island. Characters in Flight, operated by Aerophile, is a giant tethered gas balloon with a whimsical Disney design featuring a dozen of Disney's animated flying characters in silhouette such as Mary Poppins, Peter Pan and Dumbo. Characters in Flight will rise 500 feet into the sky carrying up to 30 passengers to a height of 400 feet. Flight times and availability will depend on weather conditions. Riders can catch flights 7 days a week, adults $16, and $10 for children ages 3-9. Availability is on first-come, first-serve basis.

Wednesday, April 8, 2009

Camping in Destin FL



If you are looking to go Camping in Destin there are several great places to choose from. Today we want to highlight Camping on the Gulf. This campground is located on the east end of town just past the outlet malls and right before the Sandestin Beach Resort. When you think of Destin you think of the beach, so why not camp right on the water? Camping on the Gulf offers spots for RVs, a chance to pitch a tent, as well as cabin rentals. They do fill up fast and accept reservation up to a year in advance. If you have family members that want to camp and you prefer a hotel, the Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort And Spa, Destin,FL is located with in walking distance on the beach. For other campgounds and places to stay visit http://doitindestin.com/Places_to_stay_Destin.html.

Celebrating Easter at Walt Disney World

The “happiest place on Earth” is an ideal place to celebrate the Easter holiday. Walt Disney World offers religious services on Easter Sunday, an opportunity to meet Mr. and Mrs. Bunny at Magic Kingdom, plus special meals at many of the resort’s restaurants.

Walt Disney World will hold religious services on Sunday, april 12 at the Contemporary Resort in the Fantasia Ballroom. Catholic Masses will be held 8:00 a.m. and 10:15 a.m., and a Protestant service will take place at 9:00 a.m. Since the parking lots at the Contemporary, Polynesian and Grand Floridian will have parking restrictions, WDW recommends that resort guests use the monorail and the WDW shuttle buses to get to the services.

Easter brunch with Disney characters at the Grand Floridian’s 1900 Park Fare is a popular dining experience; call ahead to 407-WDW-DINE to see if there are any available openings during this very busy weekend. If the 1900 Park Fare is booked, ask the reservations operator for other WDW resort restaurants that are offering special Easter menus. WDW resort restaurants do not require a theme park admission, but they do require a reservation.

For guests spending the day at Magic Kingdom, keep an eye out for Mr. and Mrs. Bunny, who will appear intermittently throughout the park between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The “Celebrate a Dream Come True Parade” takes place at Magic Kingdom at 3:00 p.m .on Easter Sunday, and Mr. and Mrs. Bunny will be a part of the pre-parade activities.

Tuesday, April 7, 2009

Destin Chik-fil-a

Today we decided to head to Chik-fil-a for lunch. I rarely comment on fast food but I wanted to inform travelers on the best fast food chain in Destin. Our office is just up the street from their location and we tend to eat there at least twice a month. Every time our expectations are exceeded. The restaurant is always spotless. No detail is missed. Even the ketchup is stacked perfectly. The employees are always nice, well groomed, and smiling. The service is shockingly amazing. This week is Louisiana's spring break and the restaurant was packed. We walked up and placed our order after a very brief wait. Before the cashier could hand me my drink our food was ready. I know this is the reason they call if fast food but it is rare that you get such great service from a chain. Chik-fil-a is located in Downtown Destin directly across the street from Holiday Inn Destin On The Beach. For other great places to eat in Destin take a look at Do It In Destin.

Yanni Concert Tour

It's the best concert deal for one of the most anticipated live shows around! Take advantage of this special offer and receive two tickets for the price of one! The availability is limited, so get them while supplies last! Yanni has discovered and developed four of the most extraordinary young voices in music today. For the first time ever, Yanni re-interprets his classic compositions and debuts new music introducing show-stopping vocalists Nathan Pacheco, Chloe, Ender Thomas and Leslie Mills.

Password: ORLANDO
April 14 • 7:30 pm at the Amway Arena
Purchase tickets from Ticket Master

Monday, April 6, 2009

Comedy Night at Howl at the Moon


Last night we had a chance to visit Howl at the Moon just outside of Destin. Every Sunday night they have a live Comedy show with 2 stand ups. If you get there by 8 you get in with no cover. They start off with their famous dueling piano show for the 1st hour. At 9 the opening comic takes stage. The comics travel around the country doing shows and for the most part are surprising good. Around 9:30 the main act comes on stage. The comic last night was hilarious. The entire room was laughing so hard they were gasping for air. Overall the show was great. The bar is right on the beach if you have a chance to catch them on a Sunday we would recommend this show. The average age ground was between 20-50. So pretty much everyone is welcome. Howl at the Moon is located on Okaloosa Island and the best hotel to book out there is Four Points by Sheraton Destin-Fort Walton Beach. Check out Cheap Destin Hotels for other hotel options and Do It In Destin for other entertainment ideas.

Smokey Bones Bar and Fire Grill

Until last year, Smokey Bones was part of the family of Orlando-based Darden Restaurants. The restaurants are now under new management with fewer locations, but the hearty barbeque dishes and family-friendly sports bar atmosphere have remained the same.

While there are other choices on the menu, including burgers, steaks, and fire grilled chicken, but the main draw for Smokey Bones customers are the ribs. Full rack and 1/3 rack platters are available for tender baby back or St. Louis style ribs. There are four fire-grilled flavors to choose from: original sauce, Memphis dry rub, brown sugar and jerk BBQ. Smokey Bones also has pulled pork sandwiches available for diners who like their meat off the bone.

With locations at Waterford Lakes, Colonial Drive in Orlando and the outlying areas of Casselberry, Sanford and Kissimmee, customers won't have to travel too far to enjoy the Smokey Bones casual dining experience.

Sunday, April 5, 2009

New Roller Coaster at Sea World

SeaWorld Orlando’s New Mega-Attraction Opens Summer 2009It’s an immersive experience only SeaWorld could create.The journey begins the moment guests enter a village filled with artisan-created engravings and artwork that celebrate legends and lore of the ray. Anticipation builds as guests wind through caverns adorned with ray-inspired art in marble, jewels, and mosaics, all hand-created and left behind by artists who were moved to pay tribute to the beauty, grace and intrigue of these animals.


Inside this world, floor-to-ceiling windows create mesmerizing face-to-fin encounters with hundreds of rays, as well as thousands of fish and mysterious creatures native to oceans all over the world. Shark rays, spotted eagle rays, leopard rays and cow nose rays float past guests with fluidity and grace in a view entirely new to SeaWorld’s guests.


The Manta experience then evolves from seeing ... to being.

Boarding a coaster inspired by the largest and most powerful of the rays, guests will fly face-down in a horizontal position, attached to a giant, manta-shaped coaster train. With a wing span of 12 feet, the huge manta – with riders secured safely to its belly - will soar over SeaWorld in the most thrilling flying coaster ever created.


“This ride is uniquely SeaWorld,” said Dan Brown, Vice President and General Manager of SeaWorld Orlando. “We’re known for connecting guests with the sea and its amazing creatures. Only on Manta will you find out what it’s like to fly with a giant ray.”


“Imagine an experience that takes you from being surrounded by the grace and power of hundreds of live rays and thousands of exotic fish, to a flying coaster thrill ride where you glide, spin and soar like a giant manta, the biggest ray of all,” said Joseph Couceiro, Chief Marketing Officer for SeaWorld’s parent company, Busch Entertainment Corporation. Manta is scheduled to open at SeaWorld Orlando Memorial Day Weekend 2009.


Saturday, April 4, 2009

Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort Easter Promo

My best summer idea this year is Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort. The resort have a family event this coming eastern Sunday entitled "The search for the Great Blue Egg of Easter this coming April 12. Enjoy the fun with your whole family with this clear bluewaters and enjoy other Easter Games for the kids and the young at heart.Special Kids Package Offers!free entrance - 2 adult companions per

Travel this summer with any Ferry from Cebu

Typical view of Manila North Harbor also know as Pier 12 Gothong Lines going to Manila with Mindoro in the background. No worries with the foods, they have 1 month stocks This must be Marinduque Site seeing is one of the best moment. A chance to see the Islandsbetween Manila and Cebu This one could be Romblon Riding either Superferry or Sulpico is both

American Idol Attraction

The American Idol Experience is a fun, liveperformance show where you determine the destiny
of the singers onstage by voting as a member of the audience. You decide who has what it takes to move on to the next round...and you see the results immediately! You’ll have an opportunity to experience the stunning set (one of the most technologically advanced theaters ever created inside the Walt Disney World® Resort), giving you the thrill of experiencing what it’s like to
really be at an actual Hollywood production! Plus, even if you aren’t familiar with the TV show,
if you or someone in your party, likes to sing…then auditioning to perform live on stage at this attraction just might help make your own dream come true.”

Friday, April 3, 2009

Giordano's Pizza

For pizza lovers around the country, Chicago-style pizza is in a league of its own. And for Orlando visitors who are seeking a slice of Chicago-style stuffed crust pizza in the Sunshine State, Giordano's has three locations in the Orlando area, conveniently located close to Walt Disney World in Lake Buena Vista, just off of International Drive on Sand Lake Road and in nearby Kissimmee, FL.

Like the franchised version of Uno Chicago Grill, Giordano's serves up deep dish pizza that requires a knife, fork and an empty stomach to fully enjoy. Giordano's differs from Uno Chicago Grill pizza in that Giordano's adds an extra layer of pizza dough on top of the generous layer of cheese, creating the "stuffed crust" effect.

Giordano's decor in its Florida locations reminds visitors (at nearly every opportunity) that this is a Chicago-themed restaurant, complete with reprints of vintage posters from the Windy City. Although Giordano's customers might not exactly feel as if they are in a Chicagoland eating establishment--there's no place to hang their winter coats--a slice of the restaurant's stuffed crust pizza will definitely remind some of Orlando's Midwestern visitors of home.

Thursday, April 2, 2009

Universal Citywalk Orlando

Now Open at CityWalk – Element, Burger King Whopper Bar, Moe’s Southwest Grill and Panda ExpressElement – Share in the lifestyle of skateboarding at Element featuring skateboards and accessories; shoes; mens, juniors and boys apparel; sunglasses and watches.

Burger King Whopper Bar – Visit the world’s first, only at Universal CityWalk, and enjoy the flame-broiled burger you love with over a million ways to HAVE IT YOUR WAY®


!Moe’s Southwest Grill – Get ready for giant burritos, cheesy quesadillas and flavorful salads prepared right before your eyes.


Welcome to Moe’s!Panda Express – Wok on over to Panda Express, with original Orange Chicken and zesty Beijing Beef wok-ed up fresh, hot and fast. Experience Pandamonium!

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Destin Pizza!


Looking for a quick meal while in Destin on vacation? Pizza is the easy meal that can feed the whole family without breaking the bank. Once you decide on Pizza it may be hard to find the perfect pizza place. We have decided to highlight a few of the great Pizza places in Destin. Since Destin is spread out a bit we have chosen several places in different areas.


The 1st choice we highlight is Jordano's. This family owned Pizza spot is by far the best pizza in Destin. They are located on the east side of Destin in the Miramar Beach area. They do not have a site so we can not provide a link. If you want to give them a try pick up the phone and call them at 850 654-8080.


For downtown Destin we recommend Mellow Mushroom. This is a fun chain that has a kind of wacky flair to it. I do not believe they deliver but it is a great place to stop in for a great pizza. They also have a large selection of beer for the adults.


For the west end of Destin near the harbour we recommend LandShark's Pizza. This is the one of the three we have not been to. We are recommending this location based off rave reviews from friends.


If you are not adventurous and prefer well known chains Destin has them as well. For other great Places to eat in Destin visit http://www.doitindestin.com/

Clarion Inn and Conference Center

Experience all of the benefits of a downtown location without all of the downtown hassles at the Clarion Inn and Conference Center in Altamonte Springs, just a few minutes north of Orlando. The hotel has a three diamond rating from AAA and has had a $2 million upgrade to the entire facility.

With 264 guest rooms, including 63 suites, the Clarion Inn and Conference Center can accommodate meetings, weddings, receptions, corporate events or holiday parties with the help of the Clarion’s professional planners. The hotel offers 10,000 sq. ft. versatile space, a 3,200 sq. ft. ballroom, 1,200 sq ft meeting room, a Center Gallery pre-function area, four Executive Boardrooms, plus A/V services, catering, free WI-FI and a business center to make every function run as smoothly as possible.

At the end of the day, guests can enjoy the tropical setting of the Clarion’s 20 ft waterfall and the Olympic sized pool and sun-deck, or work out in the 24 fitness center. There is live entertainment in the Why Not Lounge, with admission to the in-house Comedy Club free to hotel guests. Guests will also enjoy a complimentary full hot breakfast every morning in the Waterfall CafĂ©.

Whether your trip to the Orlando area involves business, pleasure—or a little of both—the Clarion Inn and Conference Center can accommodate the needs of your upcoming conference or reception.

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