Disney Hotels

TOASTING THE NEW YEAR: Walt Disney World guests can count down to midnight and ring in 2008 with a dazzling display of entertainment, parades, fireworks and extended hours throughout the Vacation Kingdom on New Year's Eve. (Diana Zalucky, photographer)

Feel Home away from home!

If you are planning to visit Melbourne and thinking where to stay, Then I would recommend you this best Melbourne Accommodation.

It seemed a handy location between the airport and the city. The apartments were brand new, modern and very clean. We had a huge balcony and flat screen TV. The room had a kitchen, which we didn't really use but it seemed very well equipped. There is a restaurant downstairs that we dined in, they offer a great Stone grill menu and the food was really good..

Would definitely recommend this hotel to others, and will definitely stay there again next time I am in Melbourne.

Orlando Florida

Save on Orlando Hotels with our Top 20 Best Hotel Deals. Find extraordinary savings on Universal Orlando Hotels, Walt Disney Orlando Hotels, Lake Buena Vista Hotels and even pet friendly hotels. Orlandoescape.com has it all, from economy hotels to luxury hotels you will find the best value and the best rates. Enjoy FREE daily breakfast, Kids Eat FREE Programs and FREE transportation to attractions on selected properties. Don't wait, book now and enjoy extraordinary savings on all Orlando hotels.

Home Show

January 11, 12, and 13 visit the Home Show at Osceola Heritage Park. Do not miss the home show showcasing the finest products and services for your home and landscaping.

Osceola Heritage Park
1901 Chief Osceola Trail
Kissimmee, Florida

Friday 11 am to 10 pm
Saturday 10 am to 10 pm
Sunday 10 am to 6 pm

Adults $ 9.00 and under 16 is free. Plenty of parking is available.
Hotels near Osceola Heritage Park

Walt Disney Maingate Hotels / Kissimmee Hotels

Gaylord Palms Orlando Resort - Discount rates and FREE shuttle to Disney!
Suites at Old Town - 1 and 2 bedroom suites * FREE shuttle to Magic Kingdom
Radisson WorldGate 4 days for $169.00 includes hotel, Disney tickets, dinner...
Seralago Hotel - Suites from $75.00. Lowest price guaranteed!
Mike Ditka Resorts: Lighthouse Key Resort & Spa – Luxury villas from $169
Mike Ditka Resorts:Runaway Beach 1 to 3 bedroom family condos near Disney
Orlando Sun Resort - Hotel near Disney World. Completely renovated.
Radisson Resort - Best hotel in Orlando! Rates from $79.00. Kids Eat FREE
Galleria Palms Boutique Hotel - FREE breakfast and shuttle to Magic Kingdom
Disney Universal Area Vacation Homes - Homes & Condos from $79.00.
Knights Inn - Cheap rates in Orlando hotels! FREE breakfast and transfers

Kennedy Space Center

Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled to launch at 2:26 am. January 10 on a mission to deliver the European Space Agency's Columbus science laboratory to the international space station
Kennedy Space Center

Planning for trip to Australia?

Australia's biggest attraction is its natural beauty. Scattered along the coasts, its cities blend a European enthusiasm for art and food with a laid-back love of sport and the outdoors.

Any time is a good time to be in Australia. Summer (December to February) can get uncomfortably hot but it's great beach weather. Up north, the summer wet season is very, very humid and the sea is swarming with box jellyfish. Winter offers skiing in NSW, Victoria and sometimes Tasmania. In spring and autumn the weather is mild.

Booking hotels and resorts is just simple with Travel zone.

If you really want to discover this beautiful island in luxurious way, just go for ayres rock, Boambee Bay Resort, Gold Creek Tourist Resort, Darwin Resorts, because I would say regardless of where you stay, while you are at these resorts, you can experience the beauty of the living cultural landscape. Travel zone really knows that what the visitors want, as for them, travel in Australia is not just a job, it’s a passion. They deal with Australia’s best hotels and resorts.

So, Happy trip to Australia with Travelzone.

Spa-tacular Orlando

Not just a destination for coasters and conventions—Orlando also offers calm to travelers.

By Michelle Cannon


Renowned as one of the premier tourism and convention capitals of the world, Orlando offers ample entertainment and meeting venues. Whether in the city for work or play, you may seek a place of relaxation and serenity from vocation and even vacations. Such a search introduces a different side of Orlando—a world-class spa destination with numerous soothing options for weary visitors.

The Star Treatment
Located just off of US 192 in Kissimmee near one of the busiest areas of tourism (Walt Disney World), yet in its own oasis, Star Island Resort boasts a “star’s” spa, The Celebrity Spa.
Utilizing the renowned all-natural Pevonia Botanica skincare line, The Celebrity Spa offers facials, massages, nail and body treatments, as well as hair services and body waxing. With services specialized for teens and adults, men and women, a friendly staff, and a relaxing atmosphere, the spa has something for everyone. It offers unique amenities, including the “C” and “Sea” Facial (highly recommended), which features vitamin C and freeze-dried seaweed to turn back the hands of time. Other special services include a melt-into-the-table Swedish massage and body wraps to shed pounds (the Green Coffee Slimming Body Wrap) and to heal sunburns (the Water Lily After Sun Soothing Wrap). Through its accommodating service and stress-alleviating services, The Celebrity Spa at Star Island truly revives the celebrity in every guest. Open seven days a week from 8 am to 9 pm. Contact the spa at 407.997.8000 or www.star-island.com for more information.

Two Good to Pass Up
Synonymous with quality in the hospitality industry, the Rosen name is attached to two state-of-the-art spas—the Body and Sol Spa at the Rosen Centre and the Spa at Rosen Shingle Creek, both located near the convention and tourism hub of International Drive.
With a focus upon healing clients within and without, the Body and Sol Spa’s professional therapists cater to each guest’s specific needs. Offering facials, massages, body and nail treatments, Body and Sol utilizes the French Yonka product line and a staff dedicated to promoting relaxation and restoration. With aromatherapy personalized to detoxification, relaxation, or stimulation, as well as an anti-fatigue leg treatment (Jambes Toniques), the Body and Sol Spa can improve a variety of ailments. An afternoon of Le Grand Classique Facial and a Therapeutic Massage is guaranteed to bring physical and spiritual peace to a guest. With the toll of traveling, a visit to Body and Sol Spa should be part of your checklist while in Orlando, perhaps more than once. Open 8 am (9 am for skincare) to 8 pm. Contact the spa at 407.996.9840 or www.rosecenter.com.
The full-service Spa at Rosen Shingle Creek (the newest in the area) provides an array of services in its nine pristine treatment rooms (including facials, massages, body and nail treatments, waxing, and hair and makeup services) that use Florida’s nature. Signature treatments make use of native plants, such as citrus and cedar, infusing your body from scalp to feet with these natural essences.
There are treatments specifically for the needs of golfers (with a massage using heated golf balls), wedding parties, mothers-to-be, and teens. Other unique options include the Ashiatsu Barefoot Massage (originating in Buddhist monasteries and using a bed surrounded by a high wooden frame to suspend a therapist who walks over the client) and treatments using chocolate that will exceed your expectations. The Florida historical and environmental themes pervade services such as the Cypress Salt Glow and the Everglades Wrap, as well as the Ponce de Leon Anti-Aging Facial. You can even follow a treatment with a nap or “siesta” draped in hot packs and calmly listening to Tibetan Ting She bells. If you are interested in reconnecting with history and nature while rejuvenating, spending time at the Spa at Rosen Shingle Creek would be highly recommended. The Spa is open 6am to 10 pm. Contact the spa at 407.996.9939 or visit online at www.rosenshinglecreek.com for more information.

Paradise Found
With a name derived from the Sanskrit legend of the gods’ quest for the Elixir of Immortality and Eternal Youth, Mandara Spa originated in Bali and now includes over forty-five locations worldwide. These locations range from the Caribbean to Asia and the South Pacific, from luxury cruise ships to Hawaii, California, Las Vegas, and two Orlando locations—the Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal and the Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort.
The Balinese-inspired Mandara Spa and Salon at the Dolphin provides Zen-like retreat from the everyday. Decorated with carved imported Balinese wood and scented by the aroma of exotic oils, it appeals to all six senses (including perception) and has one-of-a-kind details such as a tea garden and meditation temple in its two interior gardens. Offering over one hundred options for facials, massages, body and beauty treatments (hair, waxing, nails, and makeup), the spa utilizes the Elemis line of aromatherapy products, taking a holistic approach with medical-grade essential plant oils and extracts in natural bases. These products possess high therapeutic value because of their first-time only pure extraction used to create them.
Mandara grants its guests several alternatives to meet their needs, from the Ceremony of the Hands and Feet and cellulite-reducing wraps, to a Men’s Facial, a Business Facial, and a Surfer’s Scrub for teens. The spa also offers treatments for moms-to-be, brides, the Mom and Daughter Paradise Massage, the Father and Son Chill Out Massage, and the Elemis Exotic Coconut Rub and Milk Ritual Wrap. Signature treatments, such as the Balinese Massage and the Four Hand Massage (in which two therapists work on an individual in serene silence) pamper guests. Additional treatments are teeth whitening, Novalash eyelash extensions, and the Total Glow Self-Tanning Ritual. With so many choices and the meditative environment, a guest at Mandara will have great results after just one treatment and desire more. Open 8 am to 10 pm. Contact the spa at 407.934.4772 or visit online at www.mandaraspa.com for more information.

No Excuses
Whether attending meetings or visiting attractions in the City Beautiful, at some point you’ll want to seek relief from your activities. Considered an indulgence—but actually more a necessity—a spa treatment is just the prescription for many spiritual and physical problems. Orlando fortunately provides the perfect venues for this relief, and with the quality of services and convenience of location, there’s no reason not to indulge. Orlando Spas

Who Could Ask For Anything More?

Bergamo’s Italian Restaurant provides the best of Central Florida fine dining in an elegant and exotic atmosphere. You’d think that would be enough…

You may think as you approach Bergamo’s Italian Restaurant that you are entering an ordinary mall restaurant—but you’d be wrong. Through the doors, you are transformed to another world. Located at the Festival Bay mall on International Drive, Bergamo’s takes you back to the days of supper clubs, where images of men in white jackets and women in flowing gowns come to mind.
You’re greeted at the door by the general manager himself, who quickly escorts you to the best seats in the house. With Bergamo’s rounded architecture and elaborate design, every seat is the best. Then friendly and attentive wait staff not only provide excellent service while you dine—they also provide the entertainment!

First—the Food
Bergamo’s offers the best in authentic Italian cuisine, which includes the finest pasta, seafood, veal and certified Angus steaks. For starters try the meaty Seared Scallops with Cannellini, Radicchio and Saffron Citronette. As a main course, you can’t go wrong with the Filet Mignon with Rosemary-Gorgonzola Butter. The combination of the flavorful filet with the sharpness of the Gorgonzola simply melts in your mouth. Paired with mascarpone mashed potatoes, and a Madiera reduction, this dish is sure to please any palette.
Bergamo’s also offers the largest selection of Italian wines in Orlando, and is the proud recipient of numerous awards from Wine Spectator magazine. Oh, and the dessert menu is more than your typical Italian fare.

Let the Show Begin!
Every evening, promptly at 7:00, this elegant, fine-dining establishment rivals any dinner theater in musical entertainment for the whole family. Singing Broadway show-tunes, classical opera, authentic Neapolitan folk songs and more—these are not your typical singing waiters.
Bergamo’s provides an excellent venue for birthdays, anniversaries and other special occasions. You may have had Happy Birthday sung to you in a restaurant before—but never like this! The sensational serenades of these talented musical professionals will surely make it a night to remember. Ordinary? Bergamo’s is anything but.
By Chris Lomas

The Glenlivet City links opens in Pointe Orlando

The Glenlivet City Links opens in Pointe Orlando

In a marriage of Scotland's two best loved exports, Scotch Whisky and golf,
The Glenlivet brings a traditional Scottish links to the shopping and
entertainment venue of Pointe Orlando. The urban-scaled course features nine
holes sloped with water hazards, bridges, sand traps, and a virtual driving
range and chipping area for golfers to practice their games. In addition to
practicing their swing, golfers will have the chance to win two
extraordinary trips to the courses in Pinehurst, North Carolina and St.
Andrews, Scotland.

The Glenlivet City Links will host the public for ten days in Orlando before
continuing on to other cities across the United States.


* Tee time for media preview: 9:00 a.m. *
Grand Opening: January 15, 2008
Regular Hours: 11:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Open January 15-18, 22-25
Closing Night: January 25, 2008

The Glenlivet City Links Orlando
9101 International Drive
Suite 2300 (Former Metropolis Nightclub)
Orlando, FL 32819

Aiming to offer a new way to golf from the oldest tradition in golfing, The
Glenlivet City Links will be open to anyone who enjoys a round of golf in
their spare time. Players must be 21 years of age or older.

There are no set green fees to play on The Glenlivet City Links; instead a
'pay-as-you-will' policy has been implemented to benefit the Cystic Fibrosis
Foundation.

There is no reservation required, as guests will be served on a first-come
basis. For further information, please contact:

Amy Felmeister
212.229.2294 x102


Sara Bigelow
212-229-2294 x201

Gaylord Palms Resort in Orlando

Gaylord Palms Resort is pleased to announce today a special offer for ICE for Annual Passholders for select Florida theme parks. Please see attached Press Release. Beginning Sunday Dec. 23, season passholders for select Florida theme parks can receive a free child’s admission to ICE! for every adult admission purchased. This offer is only valid for admission before 2pm, and is available by showing a valid season pass at the ICE! Box Office.
This promotion is valid for passholders for the following theme parks: All Walt Disney World theme parks, All Universal Orlando theme parks, SeaWorld Adventure Park, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, and Cypress Gardens.
Admission tickets must be purchased on site at the ICE! Box Office, before 2pm between the dates of Dec. 23 and Jan. 3. [No online ticket sales]

For more information, please visit Gaylord Palms Resort in Orlando

Vacation Rentals Still Available for International Builders Show

ORLANDO, FL—Vacation rentals are still available at the Encantada and Bellavida Resorts for conventioneers looking for an alternative to International Drive hotels while attending the International Builders’ Show at the Orange County Convention Center February 13 -16, 2008.

As the single most important building industry event in the nation, the 64th annual International Builders’ Show is also one of the largest conventions in Orlando, with an expected 1,800 exhibitors and 105,000 attendees. The event’s popularity brings large crowds and heavy traffic to the tourist district along Orlando’s International Drive.

According to Sunil Govind, president of the travel Web site Orlandoescape.com, vacation rentals are becoming an increasingly popular option for Orlando visitors who want a relaxed atmosphere and easy access to the Orange County Convention Center as well as other local attractions.

“The International Builders’ Show is a real event for the city of Orlando, but even local residents try to avoid the congestion along International Drive when that convention comes into town,” said Govind. “The resort communities of Encantada and Bellavida are only a few minutes away from the Convention Center and offer all the comforts of home.”

Both Encantada and Bellavida are located in Kissimmee, Florida, just minutes away from International Drive, Walt Disney World, and other local attractions such as Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure, SeaWorld, and Discovery Cove. The vacation rental townhomes available at the Encantada and Bellavida Resorts include the spacious 4 bedroom/3 bathroom Tall Palms model or the cozy 3 bedroom/2 ½ bathroom Sunrise plan.
Encantada’s newly constructed townhouses include a gourmet kitchen and pre-wiring for cable TV in the living room and all bedrooms. Visitors have access to the resort’s clubhouse, which features a cyber café, exercise facility, and lakefront gazebo. The Encantada Resort offers a virtual tour of the finished townhouse units on the community’s Web site at Encantada Resort.
The clubhouse at the Bellavida Resort covers more than 6,700 square feet, and has one community pool, 15 acres of lakes, a cyber café, arcade, basketball courts and volleyball nets, television room, walking trails, picnic area, tot lot playground, and Italian gardens. Reservations can be booked through Orlandoescape.com at Bellavida Resort
“A vacation rental is always a good option for Orlando visitors who want to avoid the crowds on International Drive, and that’s especially important when a major convention is in town,” said Govind.

Anheuser Busch extends military tribute

“Here’s to the Heroes” Provides Free Admission to Company’s Worlds of Discovery For Military Members and Direct Dependents. A tribute program that so far has provided free admission to Worlds of Discovery parks to nearly 4 million members of U.S. and coalition armed forces and their families has been extended through 2008. Anheuser-Busch launched “Here’s to the Heroes” in February 2005 to acknowledge the service of military men and women and the sacrifices made by their families.
“It is gratifying to all of us at Anheuser-Busch that so many members of our armed forces have taken advantage of this program and honored us with a visit,” said Jim Atchison, President of Busch Entertainment Corporation (BEC), the family entertainment division of Anheuser-Busch. “This is a difficult time for our men and women in uniform – and their families -- and we are honored to give them something back.”
Here’s to the Heroes provides a single day’s free admission to any one SeaWorld or Busch Gardens park, Sesame Place, Adventure Island or Water Country USA for the service member and as many as three of his or her direct dependents.
Any active duty, active reserve, ready reserve service member or National Guardsman is entitled to free admission under the program. He or she need only register, either online at www.herosalute.com or in the entrance plaza of a participating park, and show a Department of Defense photo ID. Also included in the offer are members of foreign military forces serving in the coalitions in Iraq or Afghanistan or attached to American units in the U.S. for training.
“This is one small way we can acknowledge and thank the soldiers, sailors, Marines, airmen and Coast Guardsmen whose service helps to preserve the freedom and safety of every American,” Atchison said. “It’s important to all of us at Anheuser-Busch that we show our gratitude to the men and women of our armed forces and their families for the sacrifices they make on our behalf.”
Here’s to the Heroes is the fourth tribute to military personnel offered by Anheuser-Busch since Yellow Ribbon Summer welcomed service members home from the Gulf War in 1991.
Three Anheuser-Busch parks – SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and SeaWorld San Diego – operate year round. The company’s remaining parks are seasonal, with varying opening dates this spring. Each park’s operating schedule is available online.
Inactive, standby and retired reserve members, military retirees, U.S. Merchant Marine and civilian Department of Defense workers are ineligible for the program. The program does not include Discovery Cove or SeaWorld’s new waterpark, Aquatica.
Anheuser-Busch Extends Free Theme Park Admission Program For Military – page 2
Orlando-based Busch Entertainment Corporation (BEC) is the family entertainment division of Anheuser-Busch Companies, Inc. BEC operates nine Worlds of Discovery parks across the U.S.: SeaWorld Florida in Orlando, SeaWorld California in San Diego, SeaWorld Texas in San Antonio; Busch Gardens Africa in Tampa, Fla., Busch Gardens Europe in Williamsburg, Va.; Discovery Cove in Orlando; Sesame Place in Langhorne, Pa. near Philadelphia; and waterparks Adventure Island in Tampa and Water Country USA in Williamsburg. Aquatica, SeaWorld’s waterpark, is under construction in Orlando and scheduled to open in spring 2008.
Worlds of Discovery parks play host to more than 21 million guests each year and employ more than 21,000 people nationwide.Orlando Florida

WaterSong Resort Homes by Park Square Homes

The Main Clubhouse Is Now Open!!Park Square Resort Homes Sales Office Is Inside
Located just 15 minutes from the Walt Disney World® resort, WaterSong offers your clients all of the amenities you have come to know from Park Square Resort Homes, including our BRAND NEW +6,700 sq. ft. resort clubhouse. This luxurious facility is located in the center of the community, and is complete with concierge service, cyber café, weight room, sundries shopping, conference facility, luggage storage and of course, the resort pool and spa. Attended entry gates, complete lawn service, TV cable and broadband high speed internet services are also included amenities at WaterSong, as is our superior customer service, construction and floor plan design. VIRTUALLY ALL OF OUR 150’ HOME SITES OFFER A CONSERVATION VIEW, making WaterSong your client’s best destination for luxury, privacy and serenity.

From I-4 take exit 58 (ChampionsGate) and drive east 3.5 miles on CR 532 (Osceola – Polk County Line Rd) to the end. Turn right onto US 17-92 and drive 3.5 miles south and WaterSong will be on your left. Once you enter WaterSong, continue on the main road to the Clubhouse.

Builder's commission to realtors is 12%
Builder’s incentive to buyer is 4%
Park Square Resort Homes
Sales Office Is Inside
Orlando Real Estate

Hannah Montana & Miley Cyrus

The Best of Both Worlds Tour
It's the BEST OF BOTH WORLDS, as HANNAH MONTANA & MILEY CYRUS
play two shows at Amway Arena on January 28 & 29.
Miley Cyrus, star of Disney's hit TV Show "Hannah Montana", will be performing both songs from the show and new songs from her platinum solo album "Meet Miley Cyrus.
JANUARY 28 & 29 For Hotels near Amway Arena in Orlando

Plan a perfect day trip to St. Augustine.

Lace up your skates and head over to the St. Augustine Amphitheatre to enjoy a Winter Wonderland! Winter Wonderland is free and open to the public Monday through Friday from 6 to 10 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Beginning December 23, it will be open daily from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. through January 6. The ice skating rink is open daily from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 6-10 p.m. with skating only $8 (skate rental is $2). Sleigh rides take place from 6-10 p.m. (adults $10, $4 for children). This winter extravaganza includes an Elf Village, lighted nature trails, holiday shopping, children’s storybook readings, theatrical performances of the Gift of the Magi (tickets $5), Santa, s’mores on an open fire and much more. The St. Augustine Amphitheatre is located at 1340 A1A South in St. Augustine. For more information, call 904.471.1965

THE GIFT OF THE MAGI
Enjoy Theatre St. Augustine’s performance of this holiday classic at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre. The Gift of the Magi is a short production about a young husband and wife who each sells a great treasure to buy the other a Christmas present. A timeless reminder of how love matters more than any other gift, this play captures the true spirit of Christmas. Show times are Fridays and Saturdays at 7 and 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2, 3 and 4 p.m. through January 6. Tickets are $5. The St. Augustine Amphitheatre is located at 1340 A1A South in St. Augustine. For more information, call 904.471.1965

HANDA CUP TOURNAMENT
Enjoy an international match-play competition at the final event of the 2007 The Legends Tour. Held at World Golf Village’s Slammer and Squire course, the Handa Cup tournament features some of the top players from the LPGA Legends Tour including World Golf Hall of Famers Amy Alcott, Patty Sheehan and Kathy Whitworth. These all-star players will compete against an international team including Jan Stephenson, Dawn Coe-Jones and Sally Little. Play begins on Friday at 10 a.m. with a shotgun best-ball format. On Saturday and Sunday, play begins at 9 a.m. The Slammer and Squire is located at the World Golf Village, off I-95 at exit 323 in St. Augustine, Florida. Single day pass tickets are $10. For more information about the Handa Cup Tournament.
LIMELIGHT THEATRE: THE FANTASTICKS
Enjoy the longest-running show in the history of the American theater. Directed by Tom Jones, this musical performance takes you through the lives of a pair of small town fathers who scheme to bring their children Matt and Luisa together in a romance. The plan succeeds and awakens them to the darker and more disappointing side of love. General admission is $25 per person and performance times are Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and matinees on Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. All performances take place at The Limelight Theatre, located in the Joukowsky Family Foundation Center for the Performing Arts, 11 Old Mission Avenue, St. Augustine. For more information and for show times, call 904.825.1164.

Hotels in St. Augustine

Lisa Poirier Named Top Sales Consultant at Encantada Resort for 2007

KISSIMMEE, FL—Park Square Homes’ at the Encantada Resort has just named Lisa Poirier Sales Consultant of the Year for 2007. The announcement was made earlier this week at a holiday party for Encantada employees.

Poirier has worked for Park Square Homes for the past three years and this is her first Sales Consultant of the Year award. “We all work as a very strong team here at Encantada,” said Poirier, “We’ve got wonderful relationships with brokers in the Orlando area and in the foreign market. They trust the relationship with the people they work with at Park Square.”

In spite of a softening real estate market that has made local and national headlines, Poirier believes that she was able to continue to selling units at the Encantada Resort this year because of the high quality of the townhouses, the resort’s prime location, and other amenities.

“We’ve been fortunate over here; we have a beautiful product,” said Poirier, “We’ve got what the second home buyer and the vacation home buyer is looking for, and the on-site management of the resort is a very strong selling tool.”
Encantada’s newly constructed townhouses include a gourmet kitchen with designer oak cabinets and the latest appliances, as well as pre-wiring for cable TV in the living room and all bedrooms. Each unit has a screened-in pool with a sun deck, tropical landscaping, and distinctive Mediterranean architecture with Floridian accents. Residents have access to the resort’s clubhouse, which features a cyber café, exercise facility, and lakefront gazebo. Catch and release fishing is permitted and there is a paved path around the lake for walking, biking, and other recreational activities.
Located just minutes away from Walt Disney World and other Orlando attractions, the Encantada Resort has a full description of amenities and offers a virtual tour of the finished townhouse units on the community’s Web site at www.encantadaorlandoresort.com. For current pricing information, contact Lisa Poirier at 321-239-9497.

Sunshine Limousine Car Service Ranked #1 in WESH 2/CW 18 A-List Poll

ORLANDO, FL—With travel at its peak during the holiday season, Sunshine Limousine Car Service anticipates even more business this month due to its #1 ranking among Orlando area limousine services in a recent customer Internet poll conducted by the Orlando NBC affiliate WESH 2 and its sister station CW 18.

The rankings were announced earlier this fall and a full listing of the A-List nominees and winners are available at http://wesh.cityvoter.com/. Sunshine Limousine Car Service was ranked #1 out of 10 Orlando area limousine services in the wedding businesses category. The Orlando A-list winners include businesses from Brevard, Flagler, Lake, Marion, Orange, Osceola, Seminole, and Sumter counties.

“I just feel good about it,” said Sunshine Limousine president Waseem Khan, “I’m getting a lot of business through the WESH 2 Web site.” Khan added that WESH 2 plans to feature his business on a local programming segment in the near future. Sunshine Limousine is also listed as one of the Top 20 Transportation Companies on Orlandoescape.com, the #1 Internet site for Orlando travel.

Khan established his business in 2002 with a single Lincoln Town Car. “I deal with a lot of corporate clients and a lot of local people, and basically my business was built on word of mouth,” said Khan. “My main thing is customer service. My #1 priority is my customers. I train the drivers myself.”

Khan’s company now has the largest luxury fleet in the area and can handle transportation for up to 250 people per event. In addition to Lincoln Town Cars and other luxury vans, limos and SUVs, Sunshine Limousine’s fleet includes a 22 passenger H2 Hummer limousine, a 25 passenger Krystal limousine bus, and access to a private jet for VIP customers.

“The other reason why my company is #1 is because my whole fleet is brand new,” said Khan, “I change my fleet every two years. My whole fleet is 2007 models right now.”

This year marked the first annual Orlando A-List contest. The rankings for the 2007 WESH 2/ CW 18 A-List will be available online until the winners of the 2008 contest are announced next fall. For rates and reservations through Sunshine Limousine Car Service. Visit Orlando Transportation

Furniture Packages Now Available at Encantada Resort

KISSIMMEE, FL— Emanagement, LLC, which provides rental management services for units at the Encantada Resort in Kissimmee, Florida, has just announced the availability of furniture packages through Hudson’s Furniture at wholesale prices for owners who wish to rent out their condo units for additional income.

“Owners who wish to rent out their units can select brand new furnishings to give their properties a look that is consistent with the rest of the resort,” said Sunil Govind, president of the travel Web site Orlandoescape.com. “The Hudson’s Furniture packages have been carefully chosen to complement the distinctive Mediterranean architecture and Floridian accents of the Encantada rental units.”

Owners can select $19,400 furniture package for the Tall Palms floor plan, a 1,516 square foot unit with four bedrooms and three bathrooms. The Tall Palms furniture package includes a sleeper sectional, coffee table, end table, floor lamp and other furnishings and electronics in the living room; a dining room set for six people; a full range of kitchen utensils and place settings for twelve people; a master bedroom set with a king size bed, dresser, two nightstands and additional furnishings and electronics; a queen size bedroom set with a chest of drawers and nightstand in bedroom #1; and a bedroom set with two twin beds in bedrooms #2 and #3. Bathroom amenities, artwork, patio furniture, and custom window treatments round out the Tall Palms package.

A $15,000 furniture package is available for the Sunrise plan, a 1,298 square foot layout with three bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths. The Sunrise furniture package includes a queen sleeper sofa, love seat, coffee table, two end tables and other furnishings and electronics in the living room; a dining room set for six people; a full range of kitchen utensils and place settings for eight people; a master bedroom set with a queen size bed, dresser, two nightstands and additional furnishings and electronics; and a bedroom set with two twin beds in bedrooms #1 and #2. Bathroom amenities, artwork, patio furniture, and custom window treatments are also part of the Sunrise package.

Buyers have three payment options for the Encantada furniture packages: payment in full, a $5,000 down payment with 24 equal monthly payments to pay off the balance, or a $5,000 down payment with a 40% deduction (plus the Manager’s 20% commission) from each rental payment received for the unit until the entire balance is paid off. All payment plans are interest-free.

Located just minutes away from Walt Disney World and other Orlando attractions, the Encantada Resort has a full description of amenities and offers a virtual tour of the finished townhouse units on the community’s Web site at Encantada Resort Homes.

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas

This winter, cozy up and get ready for the holidays -- Disney style -- as Disney Parks prepares to shine brighter than ever when many of today's biggest stars gather on both coasts for the 24th annual "Walt Disney World Christmas Day Parade." On Dec. 25, hosts Regis Philbin and Kelly Ripa once again will lead the Emmy Award-winning holiday special from Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., and Ryan Seacrest will again host from Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, Calif.
The special will air Dec. 25, 10 a.m. Eastern and 9 a.m. Central, Mountain and Pacific times on ABC-TV, and will be broadcast in HD for the first time.
The "Walt Disney World Christmas Day Parade" is sure to sparkle as it glides down Main Street U.S.A. at the Magic Kingdom park in Florida and Disneyland park in California to a brand-new musical score.
In addition to the celebrity performances and appearances, this year, viewers will celebrate Christmas morning with "Enchanting" new Disney characters, plundering pirates, some of Disney's favorite holiday traditions and awe-inspiring floats -- all sprinkled with pixie dust.
Orlando Florida

Van Halen - The historic tour is here!

Considered by both fans and media as one of the most highly anticipated tours in rock and roll history, Van Halen comes to Orlando. Guitarist Eddie Van Halen, lead vocalist David Lee Roth and drummer Alex Van Halen will perform with Eddie's son, Wolfgang who joins the line-up as the band's bass player. Van Halen and Roth have not performed or recorded together since 1984's classic multi-platinum album "1984" and subsequent tour, making this concert truly an historic event. The 2007 tour has already drawn over 600,000 fans thus far with sold out shows in cities across America, winning the praise of fans and critics alike. "From the first power chords of "You Really Got Me," the band hit a hard groove that didn't let up for the next two hours," said the New York Daily News. The Hollywood Reporter said: "For one perfect night…Van Halen was nothing short of spectacular."
February 14 · 8 pm Amway Arena

MS Awareness week.

March 10 – 15, 2008. The National MS Society’s Mid-Florida Chapter announces their annual MS Awareness Week featuring fun and interactive “Join the Movement” events at locations throughout Central Florida to raise awareness of Multiple Sclerosis. Events include book signings, art exhibits, shopping promotions and more and conclude with the Annual walkMS events throughout Central Florida. For more information, visit www.nationalmssociety.org/flc or call 407-478-8880 option 2. walkMS“Mid Florida Chapter walkMS,” March 15, 2008, Lake Eola at Thornton Park, 8:00 am check-in, walk starts 9:00 am. 3K and 5K, fully accessible, open to the public. No registration fee, but t-shirts/prizes for money raised. For more information, visit www.midfloridamswalks.org or call 407-478-8880 option 2. “Mid Florida Chapter walkMS,” March 29, 2008, Lady Lake, The Villages Polo Fields, 8:00 am check-in, walk starts 9:00 am. 3K and 5K, fully accessible, open to the public. No registration fee, but t-shirts/prizes for money raised. For more information, visit www.midfloridamswalks.org or call 407-478-8880 option 2.

Sea World leads the way in Manatee rescue and rehabilitation

SeaWorld’s Animal Rescue Team is on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, responding to emergencies involving injured, ill or stranded animals – from a 310-pound manatee suffering from cold stress to an endangered sea turtle who’s lost his way. In 2007, the park’s rescue team successfully rescued 8 manatees and returned five more back to their natural environment.

Gaylord Palms brings back special by popular demand.

The $129.00 rate that we loaded last minute over Thanksgiving Holiday did so well that effective immediately we are making this rate available for dates of 12/12 – 12/26. That’s right! A $129.00 rate for this luxury resort that is just 1 mile from Walt Disney World! I would appreciate anything that you can do to help promote this through all your merchandising opportunities. Thanks! Gaylord Palms Reservations

Discovery Cove has record year in dolphin births 2007

DISCOVERY COVE 2007 has been a very special year at Discovery Cove. The all-inclusive park welcomed five Atlantic bottle nose dolphins, the most births since 2004. There have been a total of 13 dolphins born since the park opened in July 2000. The first birth occurred March 7 and the most recent was Sept 6.
Discovery Cove

Busch Gardens to unveil Jambo Junction

Busch Gardens’ Nairobi Field Station is undergoing a transformation to allow greater interaction between guests and the park’s animal ambassadors. The new area is scheduled to reopen in January 2008 as Jambo Junction, a name inspired by a Swahili greeting. Jambo Junction will use the existing field station infrastructure to create a new, interactive attraction. The conversion will include a walk-through station, expanded outdoor habitats and more animal presentations. Jambo Junction guests will have the opportunity to participate in animal feedings, lessons in husbandry and behavior training. Featured animals will include Caribbean flamingos, lemurs, cucuses, sloths, opossums and baby animals. This area will also be the permanent home for Busch Gardens’ animal ambassadors. Animals in the ambassador program travel nationwide for educational presentations in schools, community events and media events. Each animal ambassador’s name and fun facts will be introduced to the guests.
Busch Gardens

Top 20 Orlando Night Life and Entertainment

Universal City Walk - Enjoy live music and great entertainment from the legends of jazz and Orlando's rising new stars. Exquisite appetizers and great atmosphere! Located in Universal CityWalk. Phone: 407-224-2189
House of Blues - West Side Downtown Disney - featuring night live music and great performances of many well known music groups! Phone: 407-934-BLUE
Cirque du Soleil - Prepare to be amazed by La Nouba, the mesmerizing new wonder from Cirque du Soleil®. It's a visual feast that will dazzle your imagination. Located in Downtown Disney Phone: 407-939-7768
Sleuths Mystery Dinner Show - A totally different dining experience! Become a detective and try to solve a mysterious murder through the clues that each character provides to you! An intellectual dining experience! Reservations recommended. Phone: 407-363-1985 * Toll Free: 800-393-1985
Bongo's Cuban Cafe - Eat and dance in Downtown Disney's hottest nightspot! Bongo's Cafe. With beautiful Havana inspired murals and breathtaking tropical décor. Enjoy the best Latin dance music like Salsa, Merengue, Rumba and Cha Cha. Inspired by Gloria and Emilio Estefan. Open for lunch and dinner. Reservations accepted for groups of 7 or more
Arabian Nights Dinner Show - Enjoy an evening of Enchantment & Adventure. Experience a storybook tale of romance and intrigue! Sixty of the world's most beautiful horses combined in a Broadway production. Reservations recommended Phone: 407-239-9223 * Toll Free: 800-553-6116
Pirates Dinner Adventure Dinner Show - Orlando's most interactive dinner show! Enjoy a Pirate's Feast Broadway -styled musical full of daring stunts and live performances! Reservations recommended Phone: 407-248-0590 * Toll Free: 800-866-2469
Medieval Times Dinner Show - Feast on a four course medieval Banquet while watching daring knights on beautiful Andalusian horses! Reservations recommended Phone:407-239-0214 * Toll Free: 800-229-8300
Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede - The Most Fun Place to Eat in Orlando! Fabulous show featuring horses, specialty acts, comedy, music and four course meal. For reservations call 407-238-2777
Zebra's - Located at the Quality Inn Plaza Hotel on. Featuring live music including Karaoke night. CD Juke Box, pool tables and games. Late night Bar Food Menu for dine-in or take-out. Phone: 407-996-8585.
Capone's Dinner and Show - Discover the mysterious world of Capone's Dinner Show. Enjoy life stage extravaganza with a Broadway style musical production. Unlimited beer, sangria, rum, runners, coffee, tea and soda! Phone: 407397-2378 * Toll Free: 800-220-8428
Habitat Lounge - Enjoy an intimate atmosphere with soft piano music and big screen TV with a spectacular view of the Adam's Mark beautiful outdoor pool. Great place to relax after a day at a park! Phone: 407-859-1500
Adobe Gilas - Rustic American Cantina with indoor and outdoor seating. Live entertainment while enjoying their famous tequila and Southwestern surroundings. Nominated for Best Margarita! Located in 2nd level at Pointe Orlando in International Drive. Phone: 407-903-1477
Cowboys Orlando - Orlando's Premier Country Music Nightclub. The Home of Central Florida's country music! Phone: 407-422-7115
Mark Two Dinner Theater - Orlando's Finest Professional Dinner Theater. Presenting the best of Broadway musicals and comedies for Orlando audiences with excellent food and extraordinary service.
Hard Rock Live - Located in Universal CityWalk - Enjoy the Rock and Roll classics, memorabilia and great food that you will only find in Hard Rock Café. Phone: 407-351-5483
Bahama Breeze - Enjoy the beautiful Caribbean atmosphere with great nightly live entertainment. Just relax and enjoy the reggae music, incredible food and famous wide variety of fruity drinks! Located in International Drive.
Tabu Night Club - Located in Downtown Orlando, features the best of hip-hop music, while on weekends enjoy performances of great bands and celebrities. Sushi menu, exquisite champagne and cigars. It's definitely the place to be! Phone: 407-648-8363
Downtown Disney - When the sun goes down, the night heats up! Enjoy the sensational night clubs, dazzling live stage shows and a spectacular nightly New Year's Eve celebration! Phone: 407-WDW-2NITE.

All aboard! The Polar Express experience rolls into Sea World

Believe in the magic of the season aboard this one-of-a-kind journey to the North Pole
This holiday season, jump aboard The Polar Express Experience at SeaWorld for a magical trip to the North Pole. Debuting Nov. 23 and continuing through Jan. 1, 2008, SeaWorld’s Wild Arctic transforms into a thrilling, never-before-experienced expedition to the fabled Santa Town.
The Polar Express Experience is based on the film from Warner Bros. Pictures and Shangri-La Entertainment, inspired by the beloved Caldecott Medal children's book by Chris Van Allsburg. “SeaWorld Orlando, Warner Bros. and Iwerks have created a one-of-a-kind motion simulation experience that combines one of the holiday’s most beloved movies with an actual winter wonderland,” said Michael Fletcher, Vice President of Entertainment for SeaWorld. “The result will completely immerse guests into a thrilling combination of fantasy and reality.” This heartwarming adventure begins with a three-minute preshow telling the story of a young boy lying awake on Christmas Eve, just before midnight. Straining to listen for the elusive sound of ringing bells aboard Santa’s sleigh, the boy is jolted out of bed from the thunderous roar of The Polar Express arriving to take him on a fascinating adventure to the North Pole. Guests then embark upon that same adventure as they board The Polar Express Experience. Recreating classic scenes from the movie in a multi-sensory experience, The Polar Express Experience immerses guests with lighting, scent, sound and motion to transport them to the North Pole… and into the spirit of the season.
When guests arrive at their destination, they step off the train and into the movie itself. Temperatures drop and holiday spirits soar as the travelers arrive at the frozen North Pole, complete with towering Christmas tree, gift-laden sleigh, village décor and Santa himself. The journey continues as guests also encounter other inhabitants of the North Pole – the animals themselves – including graceful beluga whales, powerful polar bears and giant walruses.
In addition to this stellar holiday attraction, SeaWorld also offers an array of festive shows and seasonal additions. Guests can join Shamu for the holidays during “Shamu Christmas…Miracles.” This captivating show helps guests celebrate the holiday season as a time filled with hope and peace and just possibly, miracles. The 22-minute production comes to life daily through Dec. 25 at Shamu Stadium.
Guests may also witness a winter wonder as snow flurries descend from up above, and jewels of water and light adorn the night during the “Christmastide” holiday fountain show -- a seasonal spectacular where water seemingly dances to the beat of Christmas music through Dec. 25.
“Mistify,” a nighttime finale Dec. 26 – 30, takes place on SeaWorld’s center lake and features larger-than-life marine creatures on 60-foot mist screens, 100-foot fountains, flames on water and dazzling fireworks.
Families will enjoy strolling through the Waterfront’s array of gift shops and restaurants all while listening to the joyful tunes of singers, musical quartets and the “Sizzlin’ Pianos” show that ignite the spirit of the season. Through Christmas, stores and restaurants will remain open until 7 p.m. during weekdays and 8 p.m. on weekends. The park will remain open until 10 p.m. Dec. 26 – 30.
Additional Festivities
The winter season warms up South Seas-style at “Makahiki Christmas Luau.” This festive celebration includes succulent island cuisine served with the ancient holiday traditions of the Pacific Islands. The sounds of Christmas are reinterpreted with authentic Polynesian rhythms, music and dancers Nov. 23, 2007 through Jan. 1, 2008 (except Dec. 25). Park admission is not required.
Breakfast with Elmo and Friends, Dec. 26-31, offers a delicious buffet served up with the hottest characters in town including Elmo, Big Bird, Grover, Zoe, Ernie and Cookie Monster. Prices are $16.95 plus tax for adults and $14.95 for children (ages 3-9). Children under 3 are free. Reservations are required and breakfast times are 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Park admission is required.
New Year’s Eve at SeaWorld
SeaWorld rings in the holiday Dec. 31 with a musical celebration that includes the best in pop, Latin and swing music and dancing. The party begins with Michael Andrew and his 18-piece Atomic Big Band who will keep the crowd dancing. At the stroke of midnight, the night will shine even brighter with vibrant fireworks. (For those who would rather end the year with a splash, the park’s attractions and thrill rides will remain open until midnight.)
For more information call (800) 327-2424.
About SeaWorld
SeaWorld is the world’s premier marine adventure park with 200 acres of world-class shows, thrilling rides and unforgettable animal encounters. Millions of visitors have explored the mysteries of the sea with up-close animal interactions and exhilarating experiences. State-of-the-art rides give guests unprecedented thrills, while amazing animal encounters include killer whales, dolphins, sea lions, sharks and more. Other Anheuser-Busch Adventure Parks include SeaWorld parks in San Diego and San Antonio; Busch Gardens Africa and Adventure Island in Tampa Bay and Busch Gardens Europe and Water Country USA in Williamsburg, Va.; Discovery Cove in Orlando; and Sesame Place near Philadelphia. Aquatica, SeaWorld’s water park, is under construction in Orlando and is scheduled to open March 2008. To learn more about the Anheuser-Busch Adventure Parks, call toll-free (800)4ADVENTURE.
About Warner Bros. Consumer Products
Warner Bros. Consumer Products, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, is one of the leading licensing and retail merchandising organizations in the world.
About The Polar Express
Castle Rock Entertainment Presents, in Association with Shangri-La Entertainment, a Playtone / ImageMovers / Golden Mean Production of a Robert Zemeckis Film: Tom Hanks in The Polar Express. Directed by Robert Zemeckis from a screenplay by Zemeckis & William Broyles, Jr., the film is produced by Steve Starkey, Robert Zemeckis, Gary Goetzman and William Teitler and is based on the book by Chris Van Allsburg. Tom Hanks, Jack Rapke and Chris Van Allsburg are the executive producers. The production team includes directors of photography Don Burgess, A.S.C. and Robert Presley; production designers Rick Carter and Doug Chiang; and editors Jeremiah O’Driscoll & R. Orlando Duenas. Senior visual effects supervisors are Ken Ralston and Jerome Chen. Co-producer is Steven Boyd. Music score is by Alan Silvestri, and original songs by Glen Ballard and Alan Silvestri. The Polar Express is distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company. Soundtrack album on Warner Sunset/Reprise Records. This film is rated G by the MPAA. For more information, please visit Sea World Orlando

SeaWorld honors Special Forces soldiers and family members

More than 125 soldiers and their family members celebrate their recent return home after deployment in Iraq with a special day at SeaWorld. The soldiers are enjoying a variety of events at the park including recognition during the Clyde and Seamore Take Pirate Island show and a family picnic. The soldiers are members of Company A, Third Battalion, 20th Special Forces Group (Airborne), Florida Army National Guard and hail from throughout Florida.
Anheuser-Busch has a long history of honoring the men and women of the U.S. armed forces with tribute programs like Here’s to the Heroes. Here’s to the Heroes provides a single day’s free admission to any one SeaWorld or Busch Gardens park, Sesame Place, Adventure Island or Water Country USA for the service member and as many as three of his or her direct dependents. In addition, Anheuser-Busch was recently recognized as one of the “Top 50 Military-Friendly Employers” by G.I. Jobs Magazine.
WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 1, 2007
9:45 a.m.

WHERE: SeaWorld’s Sea Lion & Otter Stadium

Sea World Orlando

Orlando area resort hosts Florida's premiere cold weather Holiday Attractions

Gaylord Palms Resort Creates Attraction from
Nearly Two Million Pounds of Ice

The coldest spot in the United States this holiday season will likely be Central
Florida, where temperatures are predicted to be 9 degrees Fahrenheit, Nov. 19 - Jan. 3.
This “cold front” of winter weather is part of a flurry of holiday fun
at Gaylord Palms® Resort, located five minutes from Walt
Disney World theme parks. At this landmark resort, visitors flock
to a collection of “cold-weather” holiday activities, like ICE
skating, and ICE!, Orlando’s coolest holiday attraction, handcarved
from nearly TWO MILLION pounds of ice.
Inside, guests explore a whimsical winter wonderland of largerthan-
life, three-dimensional hand-carved ice monuments and
sculptures, including fantastic frozen creations, slippery ice
slides, and memorable holiday scenes. As for the chill, visitors
are given oversized parkas to stay comfortable inside the
attraction, which is kept at a blustery
9 degrees.
This year’s attraction, which reflects the theme “A Holiday
Road Trip,” is presented by Coca-Cola and sponsored by
Nissan and Sara Lee Food Service.
GAYLORD PALMS FEATURES “ICE!”
In its fifth season, ICE! will feature several new or revised scenes, including a walk-through igloo and
a towering gingerbread candy house, meticulously hand-carved from enormous blocks of colored ice.
A guest favorite, the ICE! castle and slides, has been re-designed to reflect a South Pole locale with a
colony of penguins surrounding the longest ice slide in the attraction’s history. The new slide,
measuring 5 feet taller and 30 feet longer than previous years, will curve around the exterior of the
scene to provide visitors with a more exhilarating slide experience.
The signature scene, a breathtaking life-size Nativity carved completely
of crystal-clear ice, has been described as one of the most breathtaking
depictions of the birth of Christ. Dramatic new lighting and a stirring
narrative track will ensure guests will continue to pause and reflect on
the story behind the season.
The enormous structure used to house ICE! is cooled to a chilly
9 degrees. To stay comfortable inside the attraction, visitors are loaned
oversized winter coats to wear.
“Not only is the artistry amazing to enjoy, but the brisk environment
inside the attraction creates a winter holiday experience like no other in
the Sunshine State – rosy cheeks and all!” said Kemp Gallineau,
general manager of Gaylord Palms.
The attraction is carved by a team of 40 artisans from Harbin,
China. The talented artisans spend nearly an entire month in
Kissimmee creating this one-of-a-kind attraction. Harbin is best
known for its annual International Ice and Snow Festival. Each
year more than 2,000 sculptors carve a 100-acre walk-through
Ice Park from blocks of ice taken from the Songhua River.
Produced exclusively for Gaylord Hotels, the artisans’ work
appeared for the first time in the United States in 2001, when a
similar attraction debuted at Gaylord Opryland® Resort’s "A
Country Christmas" celebration in Nashville. The project
expanded in 2003 to include ICE! at Gaylord Palms, and in
2005 to include ICE! at Gaylord Texan® Resort in Grapevine,
Texas, located near Dallas/Fort Worth.

GAYLORD PALMS FEATURES “ICE!”
In addition to ICE!, this year’s Best of Florida Christmas program will include 46 days of holiday
revelry, including several new or revised activities:
• ICE! Skating: A larger outdoor skating rink offering a holiday tradition common only in northern
climates. Skate rentals are included.
• “Luminescence – A Holiday Fantasy”: A heartwarming tale
with inspired music that is as edgy as it is classic. Part rock and
roll show, part holiday tale, part aerial exhibition,
“Luminescence” will bring a sense of joy, awe and wonderment
to the holiday season.
• Hidden Holiday Gnome Hunt, featuring The Roaming
Gnome: Families can hunt throughout the Gaylord Palms
atriums to spot cleverly hidden gnomes (presented by
Travelocity).
• Christmas in Florida: The County Wreath Collection: An
exhibition of wreaths decorated to reflect Florida’s diverse
destinations, from coast to coast.
• Visit Santa: Kids can take an opportunity to share their special Christmas wishes with Santa
Claus…in person, or via email.
• Brunch with Mrs. Claus: Santa’s “better half” is the
star of the show at Villa de Flora restaurant
(weekends).
While most activities are intended for both day guests
and hotel guests, this year’s celebration will include
special experiences created exclusively for guests who
purchase the Best of Florida Christmas overnight
package:
Priority Entry to the ICE! attraction
Multiple Visits into the ICE! attraction and ICE! Skating rink during the length of a guest’s
stay.
Family Memories Gingerbread Experience, an
opportunity for package guests to create a family
gingerbread house, with the help of a Gaylord pastry chef.
Holiday bedtime stories, broadcast every night via a
special in-room channel.
Character tuck-ins, bedtime visits by one of our holiday
characters (additional fee).
GAYLORD PALMS FEATURES “ICE!”
Christmas Concierge, featuring recommendations and assistance in booking unique holiday
experiences throughout Orlando.
Overnight Best of Florida Christmas packages start at $249 per night plus tax, based on a two-night
stay. Packages include a Florida-view guest room, 2 tickets to ICE! and ICE! Skating, a souvenir
photo, self parking, and a host of exclusive resort guest benefits. Packages and rates are available
for families of all sizes, beginning with a one-night stay.
ICE! tickets range from $9.99 - $24.99, depending on the type of ticket, and day of the week.
Discounts will be available for tickets purchased online in advance at www.gaylordpalms.com/ice.
Tickets will go on sale in September.
For more information or reservations, call (407) 586-4-ICE.

Orlando Florida

Holiday party space still available!

HOLIDAY PARTY SPACE STILL AVAILABLE!
(formerly the Hyatt Orlando)
Groups from 50 to 1,000
Our Holiday Party Packages includes:

· Holiday centerpieces on each table.
· Holiday colored linens.
· Dance floor.
· Holiday Décor.
· Special rates for guest rooms.
· Complimentary one night stay for the party planner contact.

Discounts available Sunday to Thursday

Please call Annette to book your Holiday Party
at (407)390-5800 x 5303. Orlando Sun Resort

Time to visit Buenos Aires

Many people are coming to Buenos Aires Argentina in summer season. Most of the travellers prefer to stay in hotels three, four and five stars. The situation right now is the full demand of this kinds of accommodation. There is an excellent option to stay in Buenos Aires for day, week or month and cheaper than hotels.
There are furnished apartments for temporary rentals. Apartments are fully equipped and at best locations in town. During your stay in Argentina find Buenos Aires Apartments and feel as your own home. Other important thing if you are looking for travel southamerica or other destinations, you must check Travel Argentina to learn more about the country , its culture and every information of the destinations.
Remember the best time to visit these places is between end of October and end of December. Enjoy your trip!

Winter Ski Car Hire

Transformed into a winter wonderland from November to May, Europe's Alps become a thrilling playground for the skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts of the world. What better way to drift from one snowy terrain to the next than by renting a car and checking out what each resort has to offer? Moreover, when you book a car with Argus Car Hire you're guaranteed to get the best deal anywhere online.

Car Hire Switzerland affords you the option of hurtling downhill past the picture-postcard chalets of Valais, relaxing at tranquil Lake Geneva region all before tobogganing by fragrant pine forests of Grindelwald. With a hire car you really do have the freedom to explore all that this beautiful country has to offer-from its sparkling lakes to its sky-scraping mountains, touring in the Alps offers the chance to experience some of Europe's most spectacular scenery. Meanwhile, car hire Munich opens up the wonderfully picturesque mountains and valleys of the Bavarian Alps, where oom-pah bands and lederhosen replace the yodelling salopettes of Switzerland. Driving in Bavaria, be sure to include attractions such as the magical Neuschwanstein Castle in your itinerary. Here you'll be transported to a world of fairytales and charming storybook back-drops.

Special Events in Orlando

Orlando Ballet presents: The Nutcracker
Performed with Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra
Friday, December 14, 2007 at 7:30pm
Saturday, December 15, 2007 at 11:00 am – Family Series performance
Saturday, December 15, 2007 at 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm
Sunday, December 16, 2007 at 2:00 pm
Thursday, December 20, 2007 at 7:30 pm
Friday, December 21, 2007 at 7:30 pm
Saturday, December 22, 2007 at 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm
Sunday, December 23, 2007 at 2:00 pm
All Performances are held at the Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre
Tickets: $12-$65
For ticket information call: (407) 426-1739, (407) 839-3900 or visit ticketmaster.com.

This production will be noteworthy for its exciting and challenging choreography as created by the late Fernando Bujones. The Nutcracker will be danced to the full Tchaikovsky score performed by the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra and will include over 100 children from the award-winning Orlando Ballet School.


Orlando Ballet’s Annual Nutcracker Brunch
Sunday, December 16, 2007, 11:30 am – 1:30 pm
Orlando Marriott Downtown
400 West Livingston St.
Orlando, FL 32801
For ticket information call: (407) 426-1739.

On December 16, a holiday tradition returns to Orlando. Join us for a special holiday treat! Enjoy a delicious all you care to eat buffet brunch, Nutcracker character appearances, photo opportunities, and an exclusive commemorative holiday ornament. Pricing includes complimentary valet parking onsite at the Orlando Downtown Marriott

Brunch Only:
Adults: $ 35.00
Children: $23.00
Or
Brunch + Tickets to the Nutcracker Matinee
Adults: $75.00
Children: $63.00
Includes ‘A’ section seating for the 2:00pm December 16th Nutcracker performance at the Bob Carr along with your brunch.


Grande Masque 2007 – An Evening at Moulin Rouge
Monday, December 31, 2007, 7:00 pm – 1:00 am
Gaylord Palms Resort, Kissimmee
For tickets call the Orlando Opera Box Office at (407) 426-1717.

Mark your calendars for Grand Masque 2007 – An Evening at Moulin Rouge to be held Monday, December 31, 2007. Leave the everyday world behind for this extraordinary holiday event of Parisian fantasy. Held at the luxurious Gaylord Palms Resort, Grande Masque is a black-tie, masked ball offering gourmet fare, a full open bar, dancing, and tres magnificent auction items. Experience the romantic glamour so grippingly captured on canvas by Toulouse-Lautrec as we stroll down to the foot of Montmartre to experience the decadence of An Evening at Moulin Rouge! This annual New Year’s Eve tradition is hosted by Orlando Ballet, Orlando Opera and Orlando Philharmonic. Attendees can purchase individual tickets or a table by calling the Orlando Opera Box Office at (407) 426-1717. This event is a charity gala and all proceeds benefit the host organizations. Hotels in Orlando

Epcot Presents Holidays Around the World

With one extra event date this year, World Showcase transforms into a splendor of international holiday traditions and storytelling from Nov. 23 through Dec. 30. Holiday icons who delight children around the globe -- such as France's Père Noël and Italy's La Befana -- make special appearances in their respective countries, while Santa Claus himself pays visits to The American Adventure. Guests can see holiday traditions and legends as they are observed around the world, with Hanukah and Kwanzaa customs also showcased.
At nightfall, Mickey Mouse and his friends host a gala tree-lighting ceremony -- Mickey's Tree Lighting Treat -- complete with music and storytelling, in World Showcase Plaza. A dazzling synchronized light show -- "The Lights of Winter" -- illuminates a canopy adorning the World Showcase breezeway bridge. The laser, lights and fireworks spectacular, "Illuminations: Reflections of Earth," complete with a holiday finale, caps the celebration. Guests with a long holiday shopping list will discover one-of-a-kind gifts with international flair throughout World Showcase boutiques. The special holiday fun takes place daily, Nov. 23-Dec. 30, and is included with regular Epcot admission. Christmas in Orlando

Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World Resort

ICE CASTLES: For the first time, Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World Resort magically morphs into a shimmering, glimmering ice palace for the holidays -- thanks to a new special effects spectacle bathing the castle in 200,000 twinkly white lights. Magic Kingdom guests are treated nightly to the castle celebration, which also features cherished Disney characters. Similar lighting spectacles also adorn Disney parks in Paris, Hong Kong and Anaheim, Calif. Walt Disney World Resort

Park Square Homes features WatersSong Resort Style Community

The Palm Series
2 Ensuite Vacation Homes
in a Resort Style Community
From the $290s !!

Located just 15 minutes from the Walt Disney World® resort, The Palm Series at WaterSong offers your clients all of the amenities you have come to know from Park Square Resort Homes, including our +6,700 sq. ft. resort clubhouse. This luxurious facility is located in the center of the community, and is complete with concierge service, cyber café, weight room, video arcade, sundries shopping, conference facility, luggage storage and of course, the resort pool and spa. Attended entry gates, complete lawn service, TV cable and broadband high speed internet services are also included amenities at WaterSong, as is our superior customer service, construction and floor plan design. VIRTUALLY ALL OF OUR 150’ HOME SITES OFFER A CONSERVATION VIEW, making The Palm Series at WaterSong your client’s best destination for luxury, privacy and serenity.

The Palm Series offers 4 to 6 bedroom plans, with a complete resort home package. Most importantly, ALL OF THE HOMES IN THE PALM SERIES NOW OFFER 2 ENSUITE CONFIGURATION!!! Architectural shingles, pool w/gas heater, tile in all wet areas, all appliances and blinds are included. Homesite selection is all your buyers will need to choose, and their new vacation home will be complete.

Price Sheets and Lot Premiums for The Palm Series are attached. NOTE THE TABS AT THE BOTTOM OF THE EXCEL FILE. You will see the “Base Price” tab and then the “Suggested Package Price” tab. This shows suggested packaging of all-ensuite pricing with edge-to-edge decking, 15’ x 30’ pool and lanai (per plan).

Please don’t hesitate to call or email with any questions regarding this outstanding product.

From I-4 take exit 58 (Champions Gate) and drive east 3.5 miles on CR 532 (Osceola – Polk County Line Rd) to the end. Turn right onto US 17-92 and drive 3.5 miles south and WaterSong will be on your left.

Builder's commission to realtors is 12%
Builder’s incentive to buyer is 6%



Orlando Real Estate

Osceola Art Festival

41st Annual Osceola Art Festival
The Osceola Center of the Arts is proud to present the 41st Annual Osceola Art Festival held November 17 and 18, 2007 in beautiful historic downtown Kissimmee. The festival offers a wide variety of art and events for the whole family and is FREE to attend. Public parking is abundant and the show is simple to navigate allowing one to see artists exhibiting work in painting, pastels/graphics/drawing, photography, sculpture/clay/ceramics, jewelry, glass wood, mixed media and metal.
In addition to a great variety of fine art, be sure to stop at the student art booth for children’s crafts and a special showcase of artwork by local students from around Osceola County. Bring your appetite for a great selection of food from local vendors and enjoy live entertainment throughout the weekend. The Radio Disney Fun Squad will be at the festival Sunday from 11:30am – 3:30pm with fun and games, promoting a FREE ticket giveaway for two pairs of tickets to the Hannah Montana and Miley Cyrus, Best of Both Worlds Concert at the St. Pete Forum November 19th.
For more information on any of the festival events or to register at the festival for the FREE Hannah Montana concert tickets:
call (407) 846-6257. Hotels in Kissimmee

Worlds of Discovery Ticket Prices

Worlds of Discovery
Adult Retail Price
SeaWorld $67.95
Busch Gardens $64.95
Aquatica $38.95
Adventure Island $36.95
Discovery Cove (off peak) $269.00
Discovery Cove (peak) $289.00

More Parks = More Value
Adult Retail Price
SeaWorld / Aquatica $89.95
SeaWorld / Busch Gardens $99.95
Busch Gardens/Adventure Island $79.95
Sea World / Busch Gardens / Aquatica $134.95
Discovery Cove Ultimate $339.00
Discovery Cove + SeaWorld+Busch Gardens + Aquatica
Orlando Flex Ticket $234.95
SeaWorld + Aquatica + Universal Studios + Islands of Adventure + Wet n Wild
Orlando Flex Ticket Plus $279.95
SeaWorld + Busch Gardens + Aquatica + Universal Studios + Islands of Adventure + Wet n Wild

Advance Purchase Benefits
Adult tickets at kid’s prices on single-park and multi-park tickets*
Unlimited admission flexibility through length of stay on all multi-park tickets
Round-trip transportation between Orlando and Busch Gardens
E-tickets that can be printed at home, offering fast, easy entry into the parks.

Florida Resident Benefits
Fun Card: Pay for a Day, Come Back all Year
Discovery Cove resident offers Passport Memberships

Aquatica open March 2008. Additional details available online. *Except Discovery Cove and Aquatica single day tickets.
Orlando Attraction Tickets

Tis the season for Holiday fun at Pirates Dinner Adventure

Back by popular demand, the swashbuckling holiday version of “The World’s Most Interactive Dinner Show”
sets sail on November 1
Returning for an encore engagement after last year’s successful launch, Pirate’s Christmas Dinner Adventure sets sail on the merriest holiday adventure on the high seas this November. The infamous band of buccaneers, cast and crew of Pirate’s Dinner Adventure will celebrate the season with a holiday version of their popular nighttime theatrical experience, renowned as the “World’s Most Interactive Dinner Show.” From November 1 through January 6, Pirate’s Christmas Dinner Adventure features an exciting holiday story line, spectacular sets, seasonal music, and a shipload of yuletide surprises throughout the show. Even St. Nick is on hand for photos, fresh from his journey from the North Pole.

The entire Pirate’s Dinner Adventure Theatre will be decked out in true pirate fashion with a frosty twist for this swashbuckling holiday celebration. This family-friendly holiday experience kicks off in the pre-show area where a Live Nativity scene will feature live cuddly barnyard animals. In the village square the festivities continue with brightly colored garlands, snowmen, holiday trimmings and music, plus complimentary appetizers for guests.

The Christmas story begins during the pre-show as the evil Magistrate tries to halt the holiday festivities, the princess is captured, and Magee the Elf -- a pirate wannabe -- is called on to save the day. Jack Frost has come to town as a spectacular wintry scene greets guests entering the theatre in the round. Anchored in a 300,000-gallon indoor lagoon, and appearing frozen in time, sits an authentic replica of an 18th century Spanish galleon with a 40-foot mast. Icebergs surround the ship, icicles hang from her bow to stern, and snow blankets huge sections of the deck. The audience is swept up in a, cold winter’s eve as dramatic lighting bathes the entire scene in a chilling white light, as snow gently falls from the sky.

Led by one of six Pirates, guests go back in time to the 1800’s as pirates dazzle, thrill, and entertain with spectacularly choreographed swordplay, aerial artistry, and dynamic duals. Magee the elf transforms into a pirate in a thrilling, heroic effort to save both Christmas and the Princess.

From “pass the fruit cake” to “holiday gift toss,” Pirate team leaders enlist guests to join the fun in thrilling head-to-head competitions pitting one audience group against another. Over 150 guests each night will find themselves in the middle of the show as they don costumes and join the pirate action. A crowd-pleasing tradition established in last year’s holiday show, youngsters will again have the opportunity to join the March of the Toy Soldiers and help Magee save Christmas. The show ends will a spectacular, pyrotechnics-filled, audience-involving celebration guaranteed to raise the roof.

The merriment continues in the post-show area, where guests can mingle with the swashbuckling stars of this holiday celebration. And after the last performance of the evening, guests can party like a pirate at the Buccaneer Bash Dance party, included with each paid admission. The high-energy DJ disco party features a state-of-the-art sound and special effects system and dancing to a wide variety of music.

Pirate’s Christmas Dinner Adventure serves up festive fare, beginning with complimentary appetizers during the pre-show, and continuing with a hearty four-course feast. Guests can select traditional favorites including roasted breast of turkey, sliced pork loin with mushroom gravy, and shrimp in a delicious seasonal sauce, served with steamed vegetables plus roasted potatoes or Caribbean rice. Dessert is a warm apple cobbler alamode or profiterole pastries with vanilla ice cream. Complimentary beer, wine and soft drinks are included during dinner. Vegetarian and “Captain Kid’s” meals are available upon request.

Those in search of even more piratical fun during the holidays can navigate their crew over to The Florida Mall, where Pirate’s Christmas Dinner Adventure is a sponsor of Santa. Pirates will invade the mall when Santa arrives at 10 a.m. on Saturday, November 10th. A special discount for mall guests will be available throughout the holidays in Santa’s meet-and-greet/photo area.

About Pirate’s Dinner Adventure
Pirate’s Dinner Adventure is owned and operated by Odien, Inc. and is the creation of artistic directors and brothers, Ramon and Antonio Riba of Spain. The main theater is comprised of tiered seating for 800 guests and the venue is available for private group events and functions. Renowned for 10 years in the dinner theater industry for exemplary service, facilities and first-class entertainment, the Orlando venue is located one block from world famous International Drive. This venue is the prototype for brand expansion. A second Pirate’s Dinner Adventure opened in December 2005 in Buena Park, California. Admission prices for 2007 in Orlando are $55.95 plus tax for adults, $35.95 plus tax per child ages three to eleven, and free for children ages two and under. Group rates are offered for parties of 15 or more.

For additional information, group rates or to book a reservation call toll free 1-800-866-2469 (Florida) or visit Pirate’s Dinner Adventure online at www.piratesdinneradventure.com Hotels near Pirates Dinner Adventure

41st Annual Osceola Art Festival in Kisssimmee Florida

The Osceola Center of the Arts is proud to present the 41st Annual Osceola Art Festival held November 17 and 18, 2007 in beautiful historic downtown Kissimmee. The festival offers a wide variety of art and events for the whole family and is FREE to attend. Public parking is abundant and the show is simple to navigate allowing one to see artists exhibiting work in painting, pastels/graphics/drawing, photography, sculpture/clay/ceramics, jewelry, glass wood, mixed media and metal.
In addition to a great variety of fine art, be sure to stop at the student art booth for children’s crafts and a special showcase of artwork by local students from around Osceola County. Bring your appetite for a great selection of food from local vendors and enjoy live entertainment throughout the weekend. The Radio Disney Fun Squad will be at the festival Sunday from 11:30am – 3:30pm with fun and games, promoting a FREE ticket giveaway for two pairs of tickets to the Hannah Montana and Miley Cyrus, Best of Both Worlds Concert at the St. Pete Forum November 19th.
For more information on any of the festival events or to register at the festival for the FREE Hannah Montana concert tickets:
Visit http://www.ocfta.com/ or call (407) 846-6257.

Hotels near Kissimmee

A Christmas Story

Based on the 1983 motion picture comedy, A Christmas Story, humorist Jean Shepherd’s memoir of growing up in the Midwest of the 1940s follows 9 –year-old Ralphie Parker in his quest to get a genuine Red Ryder BB gun under the tree for Christmas. Ralphie pleads his case before his mother, his teacher and even Santa Claus himself, at Godblatt’s Department Store. The consistent response: “You’ll shoot your eye out.”
All the elements from the beloved motion picture are in this play, including the family’s temperamental exploding furnace; Scut Farkas, the school bully; the boy’s experiment with a wet tongue on a cold lamppost; the Little Orphan Annie decoder pin; Ralphie’s father winning a lamp shaped like a woman’s leg in a net stocking; Ralphie’s fantasy scenarios and more. Come enjoy our newly renovated theatre and experience live community theatre at its best. For ticket information please call 407-846-6257.

November 30th – December 16th
Show times are Fridays and Saturdays @ 8pm
Sunday matinees @ 2pm
At the Osceola Center for the Arts
Kissimmee Hotels

Worlds of Discovery Theme Parks in Florida

Launches new Ticket Menu Encompassing Five Distinct Adventures
Incentives for Guests Purchasing Multiple Parks and in Advance
The five Worlds of Discovery parks in Florida – SeaWorld Orlando, Discovery Cove, the new Aquatica (opening March 2008), Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Adventure Island -- today announced a new ticket menu that offers guests adventures that can be found nowhere else in the world, along with tremendous value on multi-park tickets, as well as additional savings when they are purchased in advance.
The new tickets are available today, November 9, 2007.
MORE PARKS EQUAL MORE VALUE
With the opening of Aquatica, SeaWorld’s waterpark, in March 2008, guests will be able to create customized vacations with five parks in Florida – and interact with five natural worlds.
The more parks a guest adds, the greater the value. For example, a two-park ticket that combines both SeaWorld and Aquatica will be available for $89.95 – a savings of $16.95 per person compared to when purchased separately. A three-park ticket that includes SeaWorld, Aquatica and Busch Gardens is $134.95 – a savings of $36.90 per person.
“This is an exciting time for our company as we continue to grow, drive innovation and create compelling reasons for guests to visit Central Florida,” said Joe Couceiro, corporate vice president and chief marketing officer for parent company Busch Entertainment Corporation. “When Aquatica, a park that only SeaWorld could create, opens in 2008, it establishes a portfolio of five parks in Florida, together offering five very different worlds.”

ULTIMATE VALUE AND BENEFITS WITH ADVANCE PURCHASE

For the ultimate flexibility and affordability in a Central Florida vacation, the parks offer special savings and benefits for guests who purchase tickets in advance and on-line.

Guests who plan ahead and purchase at least seven days in advance receive:

Adult tickets at kid’s prices on single-park and multi-park tickets
Unlimited admission flexibility through length of stay on all multi-park tickets
Round-trip transportation between Orlando and Busch Gardens
E-tickets that can be printed at home, offering fast, easy entry into the parks

For the ultimate adventure, these guests can also purchase a package that includes admission to the all-inclusive oasis, Discovery Cove, in addition to SeaWorld, Aquatica and Busch Gardens. When purchased online, 100 days in advance, this package price is offered at a 10 percent savings off retail.

FLORIDA RESIDENTS “PAY FOR A DAY”

For Florida residents who want a value unmatched by any other theme park, the “Pay for a Day” offer allows residents a calendar year of unlimited admission to either SeaWorld or Busch Gardens for the price of a single-day ticket. The “Pay for a Day” offer will be available starting November 26, and will be the same as a single-day admission of $67.95 at SeaWorld and $64.95 at Busch Gardens.

”We recognize that Florida residents expect, and deserve, a value like none other,” said Couceiro. “Pay For A Day is, hands down, the best family entertainment offer for Floridians, and shows how much we appreciate our neighbors.”

The Worlds of Discovery parks include SeaWorld parks in Orlando, San Diego and San Antonio; Busch Gardens Africa and Adventure Island in Tampa Bay and Busch Gardens Europe and Water Country USA in Williamsburg, Va.; Discovery Cove in Orlando; and Sesame Place near Philadelphia. Aquatica, SeaWorld’s waterpark, is under construction in Orlando and is scheduled to open next spring. To learn more about the parks, visit http://www.4adventure.com/ or call toll-free (800)4ADVENTURE. Additionally, Busch Entertainment Corporation created the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, a non-profit, private charitable foundation committed to supporting wildlife and habitat conservation, research, education and animal rescue programs worldwide. Orlando Florida

World of Discovery

Worlds of Discovery Await At Busch Entertainment Corporation’s Family of Parks
Introduction of Aquatica Shows Diversity of “Real” Experiences
Long-known for creating one-of-a-kind adventures based on interactive experiences within the natural world, the Busch Entertainment Corporation family of adventure parks will now be known as Worlds of Discovery.

“All of our parks offer guests the opportunity to celebrate, connect and care for the world we share with their families,” says Joe Couceiro, corporate vice president and chief marketing officer of Busch Entertainment Corporation. “This common thread of authentic experiences, interactive learning and leisure opportunities creates meaning beyond park visits and is the driving force behind Worlds of Discovery – the unifying identity for all 10 of our adventure parks.”

When Aquatica - the waterpark that only SeaWorld could create - joins the Worlds of Discovery parks in spring 2008, it will complement the SeaWorld experience. Along with Discovery Cove, these three parks in Orlando offer unique ways to connect with the world of the sea. The Worlds of Discovery parks also include SeaWorld parks in California and Texas, Busch Gardens parks in Tampa, Fla. and Williamsburg, Va., their adjoining water parks, Adventure Island and Water Country U.S.A., and Sesame Place near Philadelphia.

“Guests will come to know that through the Worlds of Discovery parks, they will have the opportunity to come closer to the world we share,” says Jim Atchison, incoming president and chief operating officer of Busch Entertainment Corporation. “It’s our culture and our heritage to present quality products, support conservation efforts and offer guests a real sense of discovery and learning.”

Through up-close animal encounters, thrill rides and live entertainment based on the cultures of continents around the globe, the Worlds of Discovery parks offer an unprecedented variety of experiences not available anywhere else.

The Worlds of Discovery parks include SeaWorld parks in Orlando, San Diego and San Antonio; Busch Gardens Africa and Adventure Island in Tampa Bay and Busch Gardens Europe and Water Country USA in Williamsburg, Va.; Discovery Cove in Orlando; and Sesame Place near Philadelphia. Aquatica, SeaWorld’s waterpark, is under construction in Orlando. Additionally, Busch Entertainment Corporation created the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, a non-profit, private charitable foundation committed to supporting wildlife and habitat conservation, research, education and animal rescue programs worldwide. Orlando Florida

It’s a Wide, Wide World of Sports

Where can you find the most sensational sports entertainment in the country? That’s right: Orlando. Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex hosts countless events and attractions that will remind you of why you truly love sports while creating new memories you can enjoy for a lifetime.
With an impressive 220 acres of top-of-the line courts, fields, turf and diamonds, the facility provides an ideal setting for the most dedicated athletes and sports fans to witness competition and recreation like they have never seen before. The facility is jam-packed with amenities and architectural designs that attract visitors and athletes from all over the world to come and play a while.
Alex Linares, Amateur Athletic Union Sports Manager and coordinator of the complex’s annual International Softball tournament, brings in softball players from countries like Venezuela, Canada and Spain to play on Wide World’s six different softball fields. He says that the expressions on the athletes faces when they walk into the complex follow a similar trend—eyes wide and jaws open.
“It doesn’t matter who you are or where you’re from,” Linares says. “When you walk into the building, you’re impressed.”
Disney’s Wide World hosts over 180 professional and amateur events annually like the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Training Camp, Pop Warner Super Bowl, NBA Pre-Draft Camp, as well as Tampa Bay Devil Rays regular season games. Check out the Devil Rays vs. the Texas Rangers from May 15 to 17.
Disney’s double-decker, retro-style baseball stadium—one of the tallest Major League Baseball spring training sites in the country—will host the tenth Atlanta Braves spring training program in March. Visitors will be able to watch these 14-time national champions train on any of the four fields while relaxing in any of the 9,500 extra-wide seats, two open-air suites or four luxury sky boxes. The first of 16 spring training games begins with the Braves vs. Georgia Tech on February 28.
Last year, the facility set a record with a total of 150,465 people in attendance for all spring training games. The complex has had 7 stadium sellouts, including a record attendance of 11,431 people when the Braves played the Yankees last year.
From February through May, visitors will also have a chance to see future star athletes perform; high school, college and club teams from almost every sport participate in training programs, practicing on the world-class fields and courts. Over 700 high school teams from all over the country will participate to win the attention of the big university coaches in attendance.
From May to July, Wide World of Sports will host the AAU National Championships, in sports ranging from volleyball to wrestling. Some noteworthy athletes who previously competed in the event are NBA players J.J. Redick (Orlando Magic) and Yao Ming (Houston Rockets). Even Michael Jordan has been spotted at the facility, watching his sons play.
Wide World also hosts games and practices for cricket, lacrosse, roller hockey, football and rugby. Check out the Hess Sports Field in July, and you’ll have the opportunity to watch the Tampa Bay Bucs train for next season!
The complex never falls out of the limelight—certainly not with its impressive serve and volley. The top quality green clay courts of the tennis complex were the 1997-2000 venue for U.S. Men’s Clay Court Championship on ATP Tour.
Guests can always count on The Sports Experience facility to be open all event days and have interactive contests in basketball, baseball and soccer. Covered by a tent, the outdoor facility provides a setting for kids and adults to throw footballs, tackle dummies and participate in many other activities.
Families can also sit down together for a bite at the All Star Café, which has interactive sports trivia games and big screen TVs showing all kinds of games.
If you’re interested in an engine-revving thrill, check out the Richard Petty Driving Experience, where you can actually drive or ride on a speedway as fast as 140 to 150 mph in a real stock car from Nascar.
Cost of general admission to the complex is $8.50 for ages 3 to 9 and $11.25 for visitors 10 and older—a price well worth the experience, according to Sports Media Director, Darell Fry.
“The Disney Wide World of Sports complex offers a great complement to any family’s vacation,” says Fry. “The biggest national amateur and professional athletic events take place at Wide World of Sports—a myriad of high-profile games and tournaments that every family should experience.”

Winter wonderland coming to St. Augustine Amphitheatre

Only one hour away from Orlando you can , slide into a Winter Wonderland at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre and enjoy tons of family fun! Beginning November 23, the amphitheatre will be the scene of a winter wonderland featuring ice skating, an elf village, lighted nature trails, holiday shopping, children’s storybook readings, theatrical performances, s’mores on an open fire -- even Santa Claus himself! Florida’s newest outdoor arts and cultural venue, the amphitheatre’s Winter Wonderland will offer a delightful holiday experience that is sure to thrill young and old alike. Combined with St. Augustine’s spectacular Nights of Lights featuring more than two million tiny white lights glowing in the heart of the historic district of the nation’s oldest city, the Winter Wonderland creates a perfect holiday getaway.
The large, outdoor skating rink will provide an opportunity for experienced and novice skaters to test their skills in a beautiful Florida setting complete with lighted nature trails winding through the maritime hammock. The Elf Village is perfect for creating a holiday atmosphere – especially when it includes a visit with Santa. In addition, special performances of the Christmas classic, The Gift of the Magi, will be presented each weekend in the amphitheatre’s Legacy Room. As an added bonus, there will be opportunities for holiday shopping and children’s storybook readings.
Winter Wonderland is free and open to the public, however, there is an $8 fee for ice-skating (skate rental available for $2) and tickets for The Gift of the Magi are $5. Winter Wonderland is open nightly, 6 p.m. – 10 p.m., November 23 – January 6 and daily 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. on non-school days. The St. Augustine Amphitheatre is located on Anastasia Island at 1340 A1A South in St. Augustine. For more information, call 904.471.1965 For more information on events and vacation opportunities in St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches