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.