Disney Blog - Orlando Vacation Information

44th Chief Barak Obama stars at Hall of Presidents

2009-07-10T08:07:00.011-04:00

Entering the spotlight this 4th of July is the Executive Chief Barak Obama with compelling larger-than-life image from the White House. Disney's imagineers have created a remarkable audio-animatronic figure of America's first black president to mark the reopening of the Hall of Presidents.

With sound bytes recorded from the White House, imagineer's make the 44th president come to life from detailed clothing to minute mannerisms. Entertaining guests since 1971, the Hall at Liberty Square was rightly titled The Hall of Presidents featuring 7 of the most notable leaders.

“The stories associated with the American presidency are some of the most engaging and relevant our guests will hear while they are with us. And, like all great stories, these stories inspire, motivate and teach us to appreciate the challenges and personal triumph that comes with overcoming adversity.”

As the curtain opens, forty-four fully featured presidents are presented on stage in full patriotic colors. Some think that the audio-animitronic character of the 44th president is the most realistic and sophisticated to date; it is fully-animated with subtle movements.

For 25 minutes, George Washington delivers a riveting speech regarding the struggle to build a new nation. During musical scores written by composer Joel McNeely, each president continues the story that reaches out to American's during troubled times.

Disney writers & composers worked hard to create a very human story that will strike a resonant chord in the hearts of all who hear it.

National Transportation Safety Bureau investigates monorail crash

2009-07-09T07:43:00.008-04:00

After a busy July 4th weekend, monorail pilot Austin Wuennenberg was preparing to drop of his last six passengers at the Transportation & Ticket Center when suddenly he was faced with calamity. Wuennenberg knew there was something terribly wrong when he saw a train coming towards him in reverse...

According to Disney records, the monorail has maintained a clean track record for over 38 years. But that record was broken when a train travelling in reverse slammed into his vehicle killing him.

Recent investigation by the NSTB reveal that Wuennenberg attempted to stop his train and then put it into reverse to avoid the collision. As highly unusual events began to unfold, Wuennenberg did not have much time to respond to abnormal procedures.

Sunday's fatal collision could have been averted had the operators not failed to transfer the train between tracks said the federal agency behind the investigation. It appears for now that electro-mechanical failures are being ruled out as factors leading up to the crash. Human error seems to be the culprit for this horrific crash.

Individuals familiar with the system said the central control coordinator who oversees the trains movements is an integral piece of the safety network. According to the display grid at the console, the controller instructs the pilots to move after the tracks have been properly aligned. But on this occasion, the monorail control coordinator who went home early due to sickness was replaced by a supervisor that was not behind the console. Moreover, several human failures would have had to occur to create the scenario that unfolded after all the hussle and bustle died down at 2:00am.

Cast members in the monorails maintenance department, another integral component, are responsible for switching tracks when directed by the main console. Not having a person behind the control console could not in itself have caused the crash said former monorail pilots.

Multiple clues were available to crew members working near the Transportation & Ticket Counter that a pilot was moving backward down the Epcot line and not the spur line. Kill packs are strapped onto cast members in the eventuality that an accident is immanent

The NSTB report reveals that the pink train was instructed to drop off guests at TTC and then advance forward past the switch on the Epcot track. As the train was instructed to back up onto the spur, apparently, the track was not switch for realignment causing the train to back down the Epcot line right into the path of Wuennenberg's purple train.

OUC plans to cut power to Veranda Park Town Center

2009-07-08T08:23:00.009-04:00

Residents expressed concern that their lights could be turned off at Veranda Park even though they have paid their bills. Fears are viable based on a foreclosures and bankruptcies against the $700 million West Orlando Town Center, but the worst is not over.

Because Kevin Azzouz has fallen behind 6 months on his Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC)electric bill, they are threatening to cut the power. Starting today, OUC plans on cutting power which could affect over one hundred people renting at the South Hiawassee Road complex.

Renters are baffled why they are losing power since they have paid their bills and rents. Notices have been mailed to residents regarding the shut-off because of more than $378,000 of debt representing 9 months of arrears is owed by Azzouz.

Ongoing negotiations between the Hiawassee Road & westpointe Boulevard owners association and OUC for a debt of $6,400 hope to stave off a lose of power.

Azzouz's lavish lifestyle is best defined by remodeling a coffe shop with chairs, plasma tvs, leather chairs, and a Turkish fireplace for a pricetag of $30,000. Other buildings in Veranda Park have a whimsical touch of chisled marble & artwork, a fountian fashioned from Saint Mark's Basilica in venice, hand-carved gondola rides, four-star hotel, office spaces, shops, outdoor amphitheater, and six more buildings.

After selling a computer company in Silicon Valley, Azzouz's accumulated substantial wealth for these one-of-a-kind building projects.

Although some tenants have paid their electric bills directly to OUC, elevators, fire, security alarms, lights, will all be without power. Some are baffled as whether they stay or go. Leaving means breaking the rental agreement and may cost them their security deposit.

Things will begin to be shut off ending July 21, for now all the tenants can do is hold on and wait.

Kennedy Space Center commemorates 40 years

2009-07-07T13:29:00.004-04:00

Home to NASA's legendary space program, Kennedy Space Center (KSC) has been the gateway to America's past, present, and future space exploration. Since 1952, Kennedy has conducted vital tasks in harmony with Johnson, and Goddard Space Flight Centers.

KSC transports you back to a bygone era of space exploration through interactive attractions Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo.

Now 40 years later, KSC will be featuring their new Apollo exhibit commemorating Apollo's successful mission Apollo 11 mission to the moon in 1969. Four astronauts, Buzz Aldrin, Charlie Duke, Al Worden, Edgar Mitchell, and Walt Cunningham will all be present for the 40th anniversary event.

Explore a unique Apollo Treasures Gallery featuring an array of memorabilia from Apollo moon trip, Alan Shepard's space suit, space hardware, instructions to employ American flag, Apollo 13' space suit repair kit and Apollo's moon walkers.

The KSC Visitor Complex is home to an array of museums, 2 IMAX theatres, simulator ride, and a variety bus tours of various restricted areas.

Monorail crash at Disney

2009-07-06T07:28:00.012-04:00

Austin Wuennenberg, a cautious man, notorious for being bright, studying computer science, worked hard at Disney in hopes for his dream job as monorail pilot. After three years of hard work, his dream came true.

As a typical evening came to a close at the Magic Kingdom Resort on July 5th, Wuennenberg was making his last run back to the station to park the train when something ominous happened while switching tracks.

During it's 38 year history, Magic Kingdom has always put a premium on safety by putting systems in place to create the highest quality experience. One of these systems called Mary Poppins (MAPO) is designed to avoid collisions by maintain track of the distance between trains. During this time, the Magic Kingdom has maintained a good track history regarding safety.

Something terrible went wrong with the tram's shut-down system early in the morning. When sheriffs arrive on the scene, Wuennenberg was found dead after his parked train was rammed by another train in reverse at the Disney Transportation and Ticket Center.

One person near the scene of the crash said that they had never witnessed such a horrific sight of this magnitude before. Another witness said that it sounded like two automobiles in a head on collision.

While some starred in disbelief, guests were trying to free the driver that was trapped inside.

One theory behind the crash is that while the pilot is switching tracks, he must override the crash safety system. In order to bring closure to this accident, investigators will probably use the data recorder to shed more light on the minutes leading up to the crash.

Low price for Coke Zero 400 Daytona

2009-07-03T08:31:00.002-04:00

Daytona business is gearing up for the Coke Zero 400 race this July. Speed officials are expecting a 20% decrease in attendance to 100,000 this year. Businesses require the infusion of millions of dollars of revenue that the race brings to Daytona in order to survive.

Customers are really looking for deep discounts before they purchase during this declining economy. In order to get some economic boosts, prices at the track should be a all-time low from last years prices.

Instead of long term planning, travellers are making last-minute choices for the best deals. Downtown businesses like Sea Dip Beach are hoping for a good turn out to help revive the economy in Daytona.

In order to boost attendance, speedway officials decided to sell tickets on the front stretch of the track instead of the grandstand and opposite side of the track seats. From 15%, speedway officials realize that sales continue on a downward spiral forcing them to drop ticket prices including hats, memorabilia, soft drinks and much more.

Simply put, the Daytona economy is driven by the race track said several economists from Florida. Unlike other attractons, Daytona 500 draws people from outside the state compared to sports and is a real revenue generator.

Although there are tons of vacancies in local Daytona hotels, last minute deals are bringing in the business said the vice president for the Sun Viking lodge.

Hotel taxes down for 6 straight months

2009-07-03T07:40:00.002-04:00

Hotel taxes have experience a steady decline since the beginning of the first quarter of 2009 and continue the downward trend through July 4th holiday.

Making a difficult year for Central Florida's lodging , hotel taxes have experienced a downward spiral for the twelfth straight month. From $13.7 million one year ago in May 2008, taxes have decline 18.5% to $11.1 million.

Orange County measures declines from one month to the next and is hoping for some good news soon. Although the Counties lodging industry has adequate cash reserves, it will struggle with it's tax bond obligations.

Hold on to your wallets.

DIsney reopening Holiday Inn hotel

2009-07-02T08:10:00.008-04:00

After the hurricanes of 2004 that devastated buildings in central Florida, the Holiday Inn near Disney downtown will be getting a $35 million makeover. Closed since it sustained damage by Charley & Francis in 2004, the 323-room hotel located on Plaza boulevard will open its doors later this year.

Originally built and owned by Howard Johnson's in 1972, the new hotel director stated that the old hotel will not be a renovated but rebuilt ground up.

What was once the an icon of American hospitality, slid little by little into oblivion said Michael Terry from the Rosen College Hospitality Management. Nearly 5 years ago before the hurricanes, the Holiday Inn hotel was formerly used as a courtyard by the Marriott, but since then has remained in disuse.

With a new contemporary Floridian design planned, everything will be removed leaving the hotel and empty shell. Currently, the hotel is owned by CIG LVC LLC and registered by Al Cabrera. Cabrera, formerly a fast food tycoon that operated the second-largest chain of Burger King's in Miami, decided to leave the greasy spoon business, and then invest in hotels in 2006.

Holiday Inns owner InterContinental Hotels Group PLC, is sponsoring a $1 billion campaign to create a modern makeover of the brand. After the new look is rolled out, the name will be the same but very little will remain of the old brand.

Could Legoland be a new rival for Disney World & Universal Orlando?

2009-07-01T08:09:00.011-04:00

With more than fifty superhero rides, shows, attractions, restaurants, shops and nine different lands, Legoland who offers unique entertainment for children 2- 12 may be looking to expand.

Recently, there has been rampant reports that the world-renown theme park Legoland may come to Central Florida. Well under way is the search by Merline Entertainment Group for a new location for their interactive theme park and Florida may be a good candidate.

Many Floridians have completed online surveys regarding their interest level in a new Legoland attraction close to home.

Rumor has it that Cypress Gardens may have been one of the sites that Merline was looking at to build the new theme park. Several other locations were under consideration including Splendid China, and Old Kissimmee area.

It's really not a question of whether, but when the Legoland will make the announcement, stay tuned.

Comuter train coming soon

2009-06-30T07:46:00.009-04:00

Commuter train for Central Florida is not dead yet according to U.S. Representative John Mica. Most think that the high speed train from Deland to Poinciana is nothing but corporate greed. But after two years, this is the second time the $1.2 billion project has been resurrected.

Many refused to give up on the train including Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and Mica. Although the deadline was past on June 30, an extension was given by the Jacksonville train Co. CSX for SunRail to buy the tracks.

Other projects took the place of the SunRail train by lawmakers who used it as a bargaining chip last year.

SunRail was not able to purchase the track due to an insurance policy that was impaled by the state legislature. But plans to have CSX assume more risk when employees are liable may help get the policy written.

Out of the $800 billion stimulus package, Mica hopes to lobby for up $250 million to cover the high cost of the SunRail train. Some think it's nothing buy corporate welfare at the taxpayers expense.

More Delays for Hollywood Rip Rocket Ride

2009-06-29T07:26:00.008-04:00

Universal that offers both the big screen action and immerses guests into thrilling rides has been unable to debut it's most costly attraction. Poised to fire the big gun, Universal's 17 story, $45 million attraction has been slammed with multiple delays.

With it's customized soundtracks, 167-foot height, reaching speeds up to 65-mph, the high-speed coaster is the most technologically advanced machine in the neighborhood. Capable of making industry-breaking maneuvers, guests are able to produce a video of their adrenaline-pumping experience. But it has been about a year since Universal said it would roll out the attraction.

As one of the leanest seasons in theme-park history, Universal had been prepared to open it's biggest weapon this summer but still does not have a opening date. With it's rival competition, Seaworld Orlando & Disney, it would stand the risk of losing a lot of ground from the reduced pool of travelers on July 4th.

Lingering delays could have an impact on cash-strapped Universal said senior analyst from major consulting firms. This time last year park attendance has fallen an estimated 14% for the first quarter.

Universal is banking on the Hollywood Rip Rocket Ride to boost their park attendance and have a positive impact on their business. More than likely, Universal will open the ride when it's the right time.

The major drawback on Rip Rocket is the implementation of the latest anti-rollback system which does not produce the clicking noise usually associate with such technology but provides a smooth ascent. After quality testing, the new system did not perform as well expected requiring engineers to retrofit the coaster with the old design.

In addition to the initial cost of $45 million according to the Security Exchange Commissions, the technological setbacks could push the cost up substantially. Unlike Universal, Seaworld announced a summer date but announced opening the Manta to be near Memorial Day.

Although Universal has not opened the ride yet, a lot of hype around the right may have a tendency to increase park attendance.

Check out some of these coasters for size:

Cheetah Chase (Busch Gardens)
Dueling Dragons (Universal's Islands of Adventure)
Expedition Everest (Disney's Animal Kingdom)
Gwazi (Busch Gardens)
Incredible Hulk (Universal's Islands of Adventure)
Kraken (SeaWorld)
Kumba (Busch Gardens)
Manta (SeaWorld)
Montu (Bush Gardens)
Primeval Whirl (Disney's Animal Kingdom)
Revenge of the Mummy (Universal Studios)
Rock 'n' Roller Coaster (Disney's Hollywood Studios)
Scorpion (Busch Gardens)
SheiKra (Busch Gardens)
Space Mountain (Disney's Magic Kingdom)

Blue Man Group

2009-06-23T08:28:00.015-04:00

Best know for their one-of-a-kind theatrical shows, Blue Man Group is three-man unique eclectic performance starring men dressed in black with blue greased heads.

Debuting as the full-length show Tubes, Blue Man Group experienced continual growth resulting in a performances at distinguished venues like the Lincoln Center in New York and then to off-Broadway.

The Blue Man Group is fashioned as a trio with human characteristics while remaining completely mute. One of the strongest aspects of the blue men are their stark, ear-less, and bright blue face appearance. Their only communication is through gestures and intense eye contact. At their inception, they were a allowed to speak with the audience while signing autographs, now they are only allowed to make a blue smudge.

Out of all the qualities that the blue men possess, they must be able to drum. Both non-verbal communications and percussion skills truly underscores their act. Not only must this male/female trio be physically fit, but they also must be musically gifted to play a unique mixture of synchronized percussive instruments.

Over the years, Blue Man has amassed a comprehensive list of theatrical performances around the world including Astor Place Theater in New York, Boston's Charles Playhouse, Blue Sweet Theater in Chicago, Las Vegas, Berlin's Bluemax Theater, and the Invoice Theatre in Tokyo Japan.

Today, Blue Man's popular shows and concerts combine multimedia, comedy, and music creating a totally exciting form of entertainment. Blue Man's uniquely blissful atmosphere sets them apart from any other theatrical performance.

Live stage shows can be seen in New York, Boston, Chicago, Las Vegas, Orlando, Berlin, Tokyo, and Zurich. Many of Blue Man's projects evolved into music including Grammy-nominated "Audio", The Complex created during their tour, How to be a Megastar LIVE, and Live At the Venetian Las Vegas.

One thing is for sure, as the company grows, they continue to strive for a unique exciting experience in a multiplicity of media venues.

Future of Epcot's Test Track uncertain

2009-06-22T07:37:00.008-04:00

It appears that the economy is putting a squeeze on the world-famous Burbank California-based brand Disney. One source of trouble comes from Epcot's signature attraction GM Test Track that remains without a sponsor.

GM Test Track features a tour of a test equipment facility, a high-speed test ride, and it's flagship vehicles showroom. After the second-largest bankruptcy in history, GM remains in negotiations over a contract for it's Test Track attraction at Epcot.

After the 10-year contract has expired, GM would need to negotiate an extension with Disney. GM would have paid $100 million for the sponsorship 10 years ago, and then continued to pay sponsorship fees for the next 5 years. At the end of the ride, guests can walk through a show room featuring various vehicles including GM's Yukon flagship vehicle. The post-ride display has an operating budget of more than $1 million.

Just before GM's bankruptcy filing in June, the two companies were poised to sign a six-month contract extension allowing the embattled company to forgo paying for the sponsorship fee. GM would continue to sponsor payments for the post-ride show room.

With the government helping to keep GM operating with billions of dollars, the deal with Disney might become complicated when using taxpayer money to sponsor a theme-park attraction. Some rumors circulating suggest that Disney is allowing the automaker to remain month to month in an effort not to embarrass GM by removing the brand from Epcot.

Since the entire auto industry has been shattered by the recession, Disney has been aware of the fact that finding another sponsor would be very difficult undertaking.

Stay posted for more in the weeks to come.

AirTran increases presence in Orlando

2009-06-19T08:13:00.003-04:00

AirTran has a bright future with increasing operations at Orlando International Airport. Within the next five years, AirTran is looking for increased growth in it's business according to it's commitment with the government.

Florida will be contributing some $3 million in contributions to build a hurricane-strength operations center for AirTran's Orlando Airport operations. In order to get the money, AirTran is commit ed to maintain it's cooperation and operations in Orlando.

Another portion of the $6.9 million will be contributed by the Orlando Aviation Authority said authorities. Unfortunately economic woes has delayed the groundbreaking last June. Generating a complaint from AirTran, Tourism, Trade and Economic Development bureau has renegotiated the 20-years lease to give the Airlines 5 additional years to meet its employment-growth pledges.

The new negotiations is all positive for AirTran who will hopefully break ground this summer.

Travel expected to sizzle July 4th

2009-06-19T07:50:00.002-04:00

It's seems like "deja vu" when gas prices peaked around $4.00 per gallon in 2008. Analysts believe that gas prices will continue to rise through 4Th of July weekend. Despite these macabre predictions, Orange County tourism leaders remain optimistic that travel in July will sizzle.

Prices at the pump have increased by $1 since the beginning of the year. Most industry leaders believe that the bargains will outweigh the prices at the pumps in July compare to $3.50 this time last year. Industry watchers believe that tourists will have something to shout about this independence day.

Some great hotel deals this year will be one of the lures that draw tourists to Orlando says Seminole County Visitor Bureau leaders. With July 4th beginning on a Saturday, travelers will have a 3-day-getaway to enjoy everything that Orlando has to offer.

Certainly we hope that $3 per gallon gas is not in the future for 2009.

11% decline in business travel expected

2009-06-18T07:52:00.006-04:00

Are federal agencies allowed to indulge in whimsical activities during their leisure time? The Orange County Convention Visitors Bureau does not think so. Certain vacation destinations may be on a virtual blacklist because they are perceived as too much fun. A federal agency gathering at the convention center may be an unacceptable image during the recession and budget crunch.

Vacation destinations that may be on the list include Aspen Colorado, Miami, Las Vegas Nevada, and Orlando. Many believe that this unwritten list exists and that it is quite significant.

Orlando tourism marketers believe that as the government grows, substantial amount of meeting activities could be lost if the blacklist actually exists. As perception goes, government officials may believe that it's counterproductive to have a serious meeting in a destination similar to Orlando.

As evidenced by the recent loss at the Disney Swan, for weeks the hotel has been courting the U.S. Department of Defense for a conference that would have generated a large number of reservations but lost the contract to a rival in Chicago. Could the withdrawn offer from the U.S. Military that came on the heels of a briefing by the U.S. Travel Association of a unspoken blacklist be just coincidence?

With large financial bail-outs last fall, business meetings in Orlando should be increasing instead of dwindling. But there has been abuse regarding some of these bailout recipients like AIG that may have damaged the convention industry in Orlando.

Orlando should be the perfect place for meetings & conventions now that the travel industry offers low airfares, discounted entertainment and competitive hotel packages.

Universal's Hollywood Rip Rocket Ride

2009-06-17T07:41:00.015-04:00

As one of Florida's #1 vacation destinations where people can experience incredible entertainment for the whole family, Universal is gearing up to debut it's new Hollywood Rip Rocket Ride (HRRR) soon.

As far as entertainment is concerned, this will be the next big thing to attract tourists to Orlando. Even though the Rip Rocket Ride does not have an opening date yet, many guests anticipate boarding the ride.

With only twelve passenger seats, the Rip Rocket Ride offers almost vertical climbs, hair-pin turns, twists, high-energy acceleration, dramatic torque, on-board video & soundtracks, and whole lot of thrills.

Unlike other mega-coasters brands, Rip Rocket Ride resembles a skate board with agility to pop a wheely, skate, and pivot. Plus the on-board cameras allows you to get a preview of some of the thrills that await you. Seating is so ergonomic that Hrrrrrrrrrrrr-ride does not require seating harnesses but the guest is locked right in!

Riders are encouraged to hold on tight to the handle bars with no hands up. HRRR is so high-energy that guests do not need to increase the adrenaline level by holding their hands up.

Guests are ushered down moving queues like the parking garage. Almost immediately a train is dispatched to pick you up, and riders have just under a minute to get oriented in their seats. The moment the train is boarded, on-board touch screens allow passengers to choose the genre of music.

With it's large selection of popular music, touch-screen selection, 167-ft vertical ramp, and color-changing light show, the Hollywood Rip Rocket Ride is clearly a one-of-a-kind mega-coaster.

AirTran's new service from Orlando

2009-06-16T07:39:00.005-04:00

In the middle of a deep recession where ticket counter lines are thin, and consumers wait longer to book, AirTran has launched serveral new services from Orlando International Airport. At a time where people are travelling less and gas prices are higher, now you can travel using AirTran from Orlando to Asheville, N.C., Knoxville, Tenn. and Atlantic City, N.J.

Although some tourism brands ranging from airlines to cruises seem to be improving, top executives believe that booking windows will not lengthen any time soon. It appears that people are making decisions to travel closure to the time of vacation. Obamas stimulus package will not cause a snap-back-to-normal scenario like people may think.

Just after AirTran had begun new service between Milwaukee and Branson, Mo., they had to cut the service due to booking windows. AirTran will continue to add some new services between Atlanta hub and Brason in the future.

3-parks SeaWorld - Aquatica - Busch Gardens

2009-06-15T11:03:00.003-04:00

A trip to Florida would not be the same without visiting Orlando's favorite theme parks, SeaWorld, Aquatica, and Busch Gardens. Plummet at 90° straight down at Busch Gardens, immerse into the under-the-sea world of Shamu, and dare the high-energy, soaking-wet plummets at Aquatica.

With 1 amazing pass, visit 3-theme parks with an unlimited access for 14 days. When combining Aquatica, Sea World, or Busch Gardens you can to come and go at your leisure. for a whopping two weeks! Capitalize on child prices when you make a select order at least seven days in advance.

Get this with your combo pass:

Get wet at SeaWorld, Busch Gardens & Aquatica at you leisure
Check out length-of-stay benefits offer with unlimited access
Free complementary round-trip shuttle service to Busch Gardens
EZ-Tickets allow you access directly to the turn styles
Can not combine offer with any other specials

Let Busch Gardens make memories for you and your family for years to come.

2-Parks Sea World Busch Gardens Combo

2009-06-15T09:40:00.004-04:00

With this pass, you can visit two amazing theme parks for 14 consecutive days. Any combination of Sea World, Aquatica or Busch Gardens will allow you to come and go as you please for two whole weeks!

Take advantage of child prices when you order at least seven days in advance. Now at Busch Gardens & Sea World, get all this:

Immerse yourself into both SeaWorld and Busch Gardens at you leisure
New length-of-stay benefits offer unlimited access to come and go
Imagine free round-trip shuttle service from SeaWorld Orlando to Busch Gardens
Go straight to the turn styles when you purchase a E-Ticket
Can not combine offer with any other specials

FIesta San Juan at Wet 'n Wild

2009-06-15T07:35:00.006-04:00

From the serene to the extreme, Wet 'n Wild offers the latest adrenaline-pumping thrills for the whole family. At Wet 'n Wild, we take immersion to a whole new level for a unique one-of-a-kind soakin' wet experience.

There's salsa in the air as Wet 'n Wild celebrates Fiesta San Juan's 10th anniversay this Saturday June 20th, 2009. Join the party starting at 12:00pm as El Grupo Limi-T 21 and high- energy thrill-rides collide to create one phenomenal day.

Be transported to a bygone era where people gathered in the streets to celebrated “The Night of San Juan”. Join hottest artists in the circuit including Rhythm, Neco, and Latin Project as they create the sounds that move you, and the rhythms that groove you.

Dive in for a midnight splash including Latin rhythms, music, salsa, meringue, food, and a whole lot of splashes.

There is always something new going on at Wet 'n Wild.

Busch Gardens Serengeti Safari

2009-06-12T12:41:00.006-04:00

Recently My girlfriend an I took the hour and a half long trek from my home in Orlando to Busch Gardens in Tampa, Florida. We went over to experience a once in a lifetime event that you can purchase at Busch Gardens for about $35 extra per person. It is called the Serengeti Safari, this consist of an open aired truck ride through Busch Gardens' Serengeti Plains where you get up close and personal with some of the animals that call it home. The most amazing interaction was with some of the giraffe's that they have who are all decedents of the original heard of 14 that first arrived at Busch Gardens almost 30 years ago, they also have one of the remaining herds still living there who has almost amazingly doubled a normal giraffes life span. When you are in the back of the truck and driving through the guide will stop and try and call over some of the giraffes. Right after we stopped 2 giraffes started walking over to the truck and started leaning their head into the back of the truck, then out came the lettuce. It turns out that that's what they wanted the whole time. Feeding those animals was remarkable all you had to do was hold out the piece of lettuce and the giraffe would come over and and wrap its long finger like tongue out so they can wrap it around the the food and bring it into their mouth. Giraffes are not color blind so they knew exactly what they were going for, and they eat an incredible amount of food in a single day consuming over 125 pounds a day which has them feeding about 20 hours a day to be able to consume that much food. This close up presents an excellent photo-op for great shots of an incredible animal. You also have an excellent opportunity for great pictures of zebras, multiple kinds of antelope wildebeest and rhinos both black and white. Sadly the tour is only 30 minutes long and leaves you wanting to go again. It's a good thing that Busch Gardens has plenty more amazing animal exhibits that you will regret not bringing a camera for. The Myombe Reserve is one of them, especially if you love apes like my girlfriend does. The reserve features two main kinds of great apes the gorillas and the chimpanzees. The chimps are fun to watch and makes you want a video camera for to tape their antics. They get loud go crazy and chase each other all over the exhibit. The gorillas are more calm because they spend over 30% of their day resting with the other 70% going to traveling and eating, you still have some chances for excellent pictures. At the Edge of Africa the animals that are displayed are mostly predators being lions and hyenas. Yet they have another of my girlfriend's favorites the meerkats who also have some big personality. Near Jungala are the orangutan and tiger exhibits, the tiger exhibit has a pop up area where you can get as close to a tiger as possible without becoming its next meal. There are also a lot of other smaller animal exhibits that are entertaining as well. One of the most timeless and one of the first animal exhibits is the Anheuser Busch Clydesdale horse stable. These horses are massive you will never really be able to conceive how large these animals really are from the commercials you have to experience them in real life. Being as I went during the summer months I thought it would be packed to the brim with guests but much to my surprise the longest wait time I had all day was about 20 minutes and with a few rides my girlfriend and I walked straight on to, I guess this was because we went during the middle of the week. That made the trip a lot more worth it because, lets be honest, waiting in line to get on a roller coaster is terrible, especially in the heat of the summer. If the lines were bad the Quick Queue which for an extra fee would allow you front of the line access to all the major rides at Busch Gardens, it would be well worth that fee too because the rides at the park are great all the roller coasters pack an intense punch and no 2 have the same feeling. When we first got to the park we made a bee line straight for Montu when we got there we out our back pack in a locker which is required at all the rides and walked straight on to the ride. Montu has to be one of my favorite rides of all time, every single time you board that coaster and get to the top of that first drop you know you are in for an adrenaline packed, looped filled, floor less, feel like your feet are gonna hit everything you come close to ride. I could ride Montu over and over again all day and still not get bored. When we headed for Kumba we figured this line would be at least a little bit longer but once again when we got to the queue we walked straight up and right into the ride. Kumba is a classic coaster and it sounds like it roars when it goes overhead. There is never a dull moment on any of Busch Gardens' coasters but Kumba gives you a super dose of speed twists and turns that you cannot get enough of. Next we when on the Congo River Rapids which you can probably tell is a water ride, it was hot outside so this ride at this point was a must. It is a pretty mild ride and its not one that will get you soaked, unless you get hit by the waterfall at the very end which sure enough I did. After it was off to the Rhino Rally a ride that for the most part of it is drove by a human in a Land Rover type multi-passenger vehicle. It is another way to get a pretty good look other animals. Then instead of walking all the way to Stanleyville to get to the Zambia House to eat we took the Skyride that takes you over top of the park and part of the Serengeti. After we arrived we went straight for the Zambia House that specializes in smoked Bar-B-Que food that is excellent. The prices are a little expensive but the food is delicious. After the filling meal we didn't want to chance a roller coaster so we went and jumped on Tidal Wave another water ride. This ride is boring, it is very slow and takes a long time to get to the drop. When you get to the drop you will get soaked and then it is over. If the line is long skip this ride all together. We then went to catch the Pirates 4D show which is a decent show that gets you out of the heat for a while. It also gives you a refreshing surprise at the end of the show. After that we figured our food was all settled enough to go ahead and jump on Sheikra, Busch Gardens' 200 foot mega thrill coaster that drops you straight down twice in the ride. This ride counts on those two 90 degree drops because with out them this ride would be nothing because it is very short compared to the other longer roller coasters that are at the park. I give Busch Gardens a lot of credit for bringing this kind of super coaster to life. There are also a lot of carnival games and gift shops a few other shows as well as a free flight aviary where you can feed birds. All of the restaurants that are at the park have a different menu and all food there is very good. Busch Gardens is a great value being as any single day admission can be upgraded for a whole year for Florida residents or a second day free for non-residents. Everyday at Busch Gardens is a new adventure that will never disappoint. If you like adventure, animals and thrill rides Busch Gardens is your park.

Live Music venues in Orlando

2009-06-12T08:49:00.004-04:00

Go ahead and ask yourself: Where can I listen to good, live music in Orlando? I'll give you a minute...nothing? Well I've got good news, compadre. There are quite a few fantastic live band venues in the Metro Orlando area. Two of the venues are pretty well-known names: Disney's House of Blues and Hard Rock Live. The musical experience in each is overwhelmingly breathtaking. If you ever get the chance to see a band you like at either one, take it; it's well worth the money you spend.
I can honestly tell you that the best concerts I've ever been to were at these two venues. The first concert I went to was at the House of Blues. My friend suggested I go see Badfish with him. I figured I'd go give it a try out of my love for Sublime. Don't get me wrong, the band was awesome (The lead singer's voice is almost identical to Bradley Nowell's) but I was equally, if not MORE impressed with the layout of the venue. A clear separation from the dining area and the dance floor made for ease of navigation. The sound setup was incredible. It's hard to even explain: The building is designed to play any kind of music from metal rock to folk acoustic. It is easily my favorite music venue in Central Florida.
Hard Rock Live is no pushover, though. You could ask anyone who's seen a concert here and they would tell you they had a blast. You're thinking "Who doesn't have fun at a concert though, right?" Well the building layout once again prevails. It's set up perfectly, how you can relax and enjoy the music from a short distance or you can be right in the middle of the action and dance for 3 hours if you feel.
Now, im not the most convincing fellow, but I'mbeing completely serious when i say that these two venues provide more than enough fun for a night. If you are ever in the need for a concert that wont put too much pressure on your budget, my first choice would be to check out the calendar for the House of Blues and Hard Rock Live.

Consumers tighten belt with high unemployment

2009-06-12T08:30:00.004-04:00

Another unemployment record has been set this year for workers receiving unemployment benefits. Analyst caution that high unemployment could slow a recovery during the recession. Although consumers have remained uncertain over the past days, car & gasoline sales continued to rise in May. With unemployment so high, it's hard to see significant change in the economy.

After 19-weeks, unemployment levels reached an all-time 6.8 million during May. These statistics do not include extended unemployment benefits up to 53 weeks for 2.4 million persons. Some analysts are projecting 11% unemployment during the summer after 345,000 job have been cut to date.

Some indicators show that the unemployment rate is slowing but dwindling house values, shrinking stock portfolios, may hinder consumer confidence in the months to come. Financial reports indicate that Americans lost 1.33 trillion in wealth representing 2.6% of their net worth.

With the increased amount of travel, inflation is being seen at the gas pumps as the supply stays the same. Drill here, drill now mantra fell on deaf ears in the house of representatives as the price per barrel of crude oil moves up slowly.

If borrowers default on their loans in the months to come it will be the result of employment, not risky mortgages as foreclosure rates continue to fall.

Avoid long lines at Disney World

2009-06-10T07:50:00.004-04:00

Despite the current recession, lines have still been long at Disney World Orlando. Wait times can up to 90 minutes depending on the popularity of the attraction. Although each park posts wait times clearly in view, some people are not satisfied with that service.

One person decided to address the problem during a recent loss of employment. The design called "app", is an application that can be installed on the iPhone. With the iPhone app, guests can stay in touch with the wait times for each attraction and avoid long walks across the parks.

Costing about 90 cents, guests can view all the information about a ride in order to plan their day. But there is one caveat, other guests must input information about the ride for the whole concept to work.

Wait time apps are also being developed for Universal Studios Orlando. Disney & Verizon have decided to get into the iPhone business as well providing specific wait time information for rides.

At least 12 people will need to enter wait time information in each theme park for the iPhone application to be useful. One person is committed to begin entering wait information for Disney World as early as Thursday 6/11/09.