Festival of Chocolate

For anyone that has wanted to be a kid in a chocolate store…you now have your chance!

The Festival of Chocolate, Central Florida’s only Celebration of Everything Chocolate is scheduled for March 7 and March 8, 2009 at the Florida Hotel adjacent to the Florida Mall.

The Vendor Showcase will feature chocolate tastes, treats and temptations including cookies, cakes, brownies, cupcakes, ice cream and truffles from some of the areas most acclaimed dessert and confection companies.

The “Best of” Chocolate Indulgences in 9 categories takes place live at the event on Saturday, March 7th by randomly selected judging panels each represented by a pastry/culinary expert, a celebrity and a self-proclaimed chocoholic.

The Kids-4-Chocolate Workshop allows the littlest chocoholics to create their own creative chocolate masterpieces and a one-of-a-kind self-standing artistic chocolate museum display introduces guests to rich history of chocolate, the production process, health and wellness, traditions and much more.

Cooking Demonstrations presented by The Orlando Culinary Institute, special historical presentations, book signings, multiple creative chocolate-themed kid competitions and live music make the Festival of Chocolate weekend the Sweetest Two Days in Central Florida.

The Festival of Chocolate

Saturday, March 7, 2009 10am – 6pm

Sunday, March 8, 2009 12am – 6pm

The Florida Hotel adjacent to the Florida Mall

For More Information: FestivalofChocolate
If you are coming from out of town search for orlando hotels

DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive Theme Park a Gamer's Delight

With five stories of simulators, video games, and other interactive adventures, the DisneyQuest theme park at Downtown Disney’s West Side is a gamer’s paradise. Guests can ride the rapids during the age of the dinosaurs on a virtual jungle cruise, battle the Pirates of the Caribbean on the open seas, or even take a magic carpet ride with Aladdin to seek the magic lamp.

Aladdin’s Genie greets visitors when they enter the elevator that takes them into the heart of DisneyQuest. From there guests are free to roam the five stories of interactive video simulator games—or even play some “old school” pinball and air hockey. No tokens or quarters are necessary; a day’s admission to DisneyQuest covers all of your games. An indoor cafeteria also ensures that no one will go hungry during their day of gaming.

There are no strollers allowed inside DisneyQuest, and due to the height restrictions on many of the interactive rides, the darkened, video arcade atmosphere is best suited for older children, teens and adults. Guests that are 51” or taller can design and ride their own roller coaster on CyberSpace Mountain, or pilot a futuristic bumper car ride with Buzz Lightyear’s Astroblasters. There are even opportunities for visitors to try their hand at drawing Mickey Mouse and other Disney characters at the Animation Academy.

At the end of your day at DisneyQuest, stroll around Downtown Disney’s West Side (adjust your eyes to the light if the sun hasn’t gone down yet) and enjoy the rest of what Downtown Disney has to offer.

ESPN Weekend Disney World

Sports fans who want to leap into planning for the sixth edition of ESPN The Weekend presented by Dick's Sporting Goods -- Feb. 27-March 1, 2009, at Disney's Hollywood Studios --can visit ESPN for the latest information about the upcoming event.
The weekend will feature a lineup of athletes and ESPN personalities as the studios theme park hosts ESPN and ESPN Radio shows, motorcades and star conversations, behind-the-scenes looks at ESPN shows, and an interactive sports area. The sports celebrity list will grow as the weekend draws nearer. All the fun is included with regular theme park admission.

Lighthouse Key Resort & Spa

Opened in August of 2008, the Lighthouse Key Resort & Spa in Kissimmee, FL offers all the luxuries of a high end resort with a convenient location close to Walt Disney World and everything else that the Orlando area has to offer. Managed by the All Star Vacation Homes, the Lighthouse Key Resort and Spa has two, three, and four bedroom suites that can accommodate any group or extended family vacation.

The lakeside suites are spacious and meticulously decorated to enhance the relaxing atmosphere of the Lighthouse Key Resort & Spa. The full-service European style spa offers massages and other treatments for the adults, while the kids will enjoy the game arcade and the billiards room. Transportation to the Walt Disney World resort is available, so you can save on rental car and parking fees.

Other amenities at the Lighthouse Key Resort & Spa include two heated swimming pools (one for adults plus a zero-entry pool for families), a poolside snack bar, sundeck, and a 26,000 square foot Grand Clubhouse. The Clubhouse has a state-of-the-art fitness center and a 52-seat movie theater, so you can enjoy a real film-going experience without the long lines.

Concierge services are also available to stock up the cabinets and refrigerators with foodstuffs prior to your arrival, so your next Orlando vacation can begin right away the moment you arrive at the Lighthouse Key Resort & Spa.

American Idol Experience Disney

The American Idol Experience, which will have its Grand Opening on February 14, 2009, will be located at Disney's Hollywood Studios theme park and will follow the model of the high-energy show. Disney guests will be able to experience the challenge of auditioning, the rush of performing on stage in competition, or the thrill of judging the performances in a live interactive entertainment setting with all the glitz and glamour of the distinctive "American Idol" set.
That experience will include an audition process, open to all eligible to register, where guests perform “live” in front of a Disney’s Hollywood Studios producer for the chance to be cast in a theme park show. If shown to have that star quality during the screening process and after backstage preparation -- working with a vocal coach, hair and make-up -- it’s lights up and showtime for the lucky guest in front of a “live” audience and a panel of judges.

Tampa Bus Charter

It’s official—Super Bowl XLIII will be a matchup between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Arizona Cardinals, and the only way to get close to the action is a Tampa bus charter to see the big game—or at least get near it—at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa on February 1, 2009. With more than 20 years of experience in the transportation business, USAChauffeur in Orlando can transport your group from Central Florida to Tampa Bay for any sporting event.

USAChauffeur will make every effort to provide you with excellent service for your Tampa bus charter and get you to your destination efficiently and safely. USAChauffeur is a reliable transportation resource for customers with a variety of transportation needs, including corporate travelers, destination management companies, event planners, leisure travelers, state agencies, travel agencies, tour operators—and football fans.

To make travel arrangements, contact USAChauffeur.com at 407.239.1551 or toll free at 1.800.820.5705.

Mardi Gras 2009 Date

Universal Orlando is unleashing the biggest Mardi Gras celebration this side of the bayou with the most powerful and diverse concert series in the event’s history. With a combined total of more than 300 million records sold and a dozen Grammy Awards, this year’s Mardi Gras line-up features 13 of the most popular names in pop, rock, R&B, country, hip-hop and more.

Guests will experience a Mardi Gras concert series like no other, with performances by Billboard Chart-topper Ne-Yo, “American Idol” winner Kelly Clarkson, country music-duo Montgomery Gentry and Grammy Award-winning rapper Nelly. Other headliners include the hit artists behind classics such as “Hit Me with Your Best Shot,” “Too Legit to Quit,” and “Y.M.C.A.” – Pat Benatar, MC Hammer and The Village People, respectively. “This year’s Mardi Gras will be our best party ever,” said Jim Timon, senior vice president of entertainment for Universal Orlando Resort. Guests will experience the most authentic Mardi Gras celebration outside of The Big Easy when the event kicks off on February 7 and runs every Saturday night through April 18, with additional dates on Sunday February 15 and Friday, March 27. Guests will enjoy hundreds of costumed characters, tons of souvenir beads, Cajun cuisine and an elaborate parade featuring floats designed by Blaine Kern Artists, Inc, who designs floats for the New Orleans parade.

This year’s parade theme is “Stories,” giving guests a glimpse into the world of literature. Themed floats featuring iconic characters and settings from the pages of the most popular and beloved books featuring genres such as Mystery, Romance and Horror will cruise the streets of Universal Studios throughout the event.
Mardi Gras is included in park admission to Universal Studios.

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS MARDI GRAS 2009 CONCERT SERIES

Saturday, February 7 KC and the Sunshine Band Big Red and the Zydeco Playmakers
Saturday, February 14 Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons Lil Malcolm and the House Rockers
Sunday, February 15 The Village People Lil Malcolm and the House Rockers
Saturday, February 21 Ne-Yo Daddy Mac Blues Band
Saturday, February 28 Pat Benatar(featuring Neil Giraldo on guitar) Chris Klein and the Boulevards
Saturday, March 7 Barenaked Ladies Rockin Jake
Saturday, March 14 Montgomery Gentry Mem Shannon and The Membership
Saturday, March 21 Collective Soul The Honey Islands Swamp Band
Friday, March 27 Boys Like Girls Jumpin Johnny Sansone
Saturday, March 28 Kelly Clarkson Jumpin Johnny Sansone
Saturday, April 4 MC Hammer Soul Project
Saturday, April 11 Trace Adkins Lil Nathan and the Zydeco Big Timers
Saturday, April 18 Nelly Lil Brian and the Zydeco Travelers

Finding Cheap Universal Studios Tickets

Fleetwood Mac Tour

The historic "Unleashed" Tour will include all of the Mac's greatest hits from over the course of the band's extraordinary career. Fleetwood Mac, the multi-Grammy winning, multi-platinum Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees are back on the road for the first time in five years following several successful solo projects. April 20, 2009 at the Amway Arena Downtown Orlando. Search foor hotels near Amway Arena and also check out the following hotels in downtown orlando hotels Marriott - Across the Amway Arena and Bob Carr Performing Arts. Great rates! Courtyard Orlando -Your best lodging alternative near Bob Carr Performing Arts

Disney Valentine Coloring Pages

Get into the spirit of Valentine’s Day with Disney Valentine coloring pages. Familyfun.com (which is owned by Disney) has a number of holiday coloring pages to choose from, with at least seven printable coloring pages for Valentine’s Day. With these Disney Valentine coloring pages, are plenty of hearts to go around for any Valentine’s Day themed activity.

Elsewhere on the Web, Disney’s Magic Artist online has a number of printable coloring pages to choose from with all of your favorite Disney characters, including Mickey & Friends, Winnie the Pooh, the Princess Collection, The Incredibles, Beauty and the Beast, Finding Nemo, The Little Mermaid, Toy Story 2, Mulan, Sleeping Beauty, The Lion King, Snow White, plus many more.

Florida Resident Tickets for Walt Disney World® Resort

Florida Resident Walt Disney World® Theme Park Tickets
Choose from a selection of ticket options for 3 and 4 days, including special prices for Florida Residents.

Now you can get to the fun even faster. When you order tickets online, you can print an exchange certificate that can be redeemed at a ticket window at any of the four Walt Disney World® Theme Parks. Please note that proof of Florida residency for each adult is required for purchase and use.

Florida Resident Walt Disney World® Theme Park Tickets
Choose from a selection of ticket options for 3 and 4 days, including special prices for Florida Residents.
Now you can get to the fun even faster. When you order tickets online, you can print an exchange certificate that can be redeemed at a ticket window at any of the four Walt Disney World® Theme Parks. You will need to present your printed confirmation along with proof of Florida residency for each adult ticket.*
* You must provide any one of the following: Florida driver’s license, Florida state-issued ID card (must have Florida address), Florida voter’s registration card with corresponding picture ID, a college ID for a Florida college, or a Florida-based military ID for each adult ticket.

Space Mountain to close for renovations in April

If Space Mountain is on your to-do list for an upcoming trip to Walt Disney World, be sure to get to Magic Kingdom before April 19, when Space Mountain will be temporarily shut down for what the Disney company has called a “refreshment,” that will last until later this year. According to a recent article in the Orlando Sentinel, Space Mountain will remain closed throughout the summer of 2009.

This will be the first renovation to Space Mountain since the popular attraction opened at Walt Disney World in 1975. The dual tracks of this indoor roller coaster propel riders through space-like darkness (with the only light coming from a few twinkling stars). The sharp drops and turns—in the dark—make the ride a bit disorienting but a lot of fun. Riders on the much milder Tomorrowland Transit Authority (TTA) can hear the screams from the Space Mountain riders as part of that attraction.

The construction work on Space Mountain will include installing new track inside the enclosed coaster, but the layout of the track will remain the same. Other upgrades will include a new enclosure for the ride's queuing area and a new ceiling, so that fans of the ride can look forward to a Space Mountain that’s a bit more 21st century and a lot less 70s Sci-Fi.

Bud & BBQ Returns to SeaWorld Orlando and Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Get ready for smokin' hot food and fired-up music during SeaWorld and Busch Gardens' Bud & BBQ. Each weekend Feb. 7 through March 1, the parks present a zesty line up of live performances by award-winning country and classic rock artists paired with blazing barbeque and ice-cold Budweiser.

The best way for Florida residents to experience Bud & BBQ is with a Fun Card. With the purchase of a Fun Card, families can pay for a day, and come back all year long. This incredible offer gives guests the opportunity to enjoy unlimited access to the exciting line-up of artists during Bud & BBQ, plus the chance to enjoy all the amazing animal encounters, world-class thrill rides and family fun the parks offer.

At SeaWorld, Bud & BBQ kicks off on Saturday, Feb. 7 with country artist Blake Shelton. On Feb.14, Kenny Rogers performs his classic hits. The series also features Daryl Hall and John Oates on Feb. 21 and Jason Aldean on Feb. 28.

At Busch Gardens, Sundays will rock beginning Feb. 8 with Phil Vassar and opening act Josh Gracin. Also appearing are Gretchen Wilson on Feb. 15, Miranda Lambert on February 22 and Gregg Allman on March 1.

Admission to Bud & BBQ is included with regular park admission, Fun Card or valid Passport membership. The Fun Card is not valid with other discounts or special offers. Concert dates and artists are subject to change. For more information, call 1-888-800-5447 or visit BudandBBQ.com and Sea World Packages

Free Beer at SeaWorld Ends February 1

The tap will run dry on the free beer provided at SeaWorld Orlando’s hospitality centers as of February 1, 2009. The hospitality centers will be temporarily shut down and replaced by restaurants or cafeteria-style eateries. According to a recent article in the Orlando Sentinel, Anheuser Busch In Bev announced that it will shutter the popular hospitality centers and "brewmaster clubs" in its SeaWorld and Busch Gardens theme parks starting later this month. There will be beer sales in other areas of SeaWorld, but the days of Shamu buying a round of drinks are numbered.

For Busch Gardens in Tampa, the end of the free beer samples marks the end of a 50 year tradition. Busch Gardens opened in 1959 as a small park offering tours of a nearby Anheuser-Busch brewery. Recent news reports have indicated that Belgian brewer InBev, which recently purchased Anheuser-Busch, might sell off the company’s theme park division and shutting down the hospitality centers is a way to make the parks more appealing to potential buyers.

Discovery Cove Offers Once-in-a-Lifetime Memories

Discovery Cove Offers Once-in-a-Lifetime Memories For Valentine’s Month
As the search for memorable Valentine’s Day gifts heats up, couples will fall in love with three Valentine’s packages at Discovery Cove® in Orlando.
From chocolate and roses, to champagne and private cabanas, these romantic packages will give Valentine’s Day a spectacular sizzle and splash found only at Discovery Cove. Located in the heart of Orlando, this reservations-only retreat allows couples to enhance an amazing day of swimming with dolphins, snorkeling with rays and tropical fish, relaxing on pristine beaches and drifting along a crystal clear tropical river The three Valentine’s packages are available for the entire month of February:
Valentine’s Honey Package
Starting at $74.95, this sweet treat includes a souvenir 6 x 8 photo and frame; boxed chocolates; and a keepsake buoy with a personalized message delivered to your honey by one of Discovery Cove’s lovable Atlantic bottlenose dolphins.

Valentine’s Sweetheart Package
Upgrade to the Sweetheart Package ($215.95) to enjoy the souvenir photo and frame, chocolates, and dolphin “love note” on a personalized buoy, a dozen red roses, plus a private cabana, a bottle of champagne, boxed chocolates and two souvenir toasting flutes.

Valentine’s Romance Package
The Romance Package ($295.95) gives guests the ultimate experience, combining Honey and Sweetheart package amenities with a champagne chiller, one dozen red roses, and a souvenir DVD of their Discovery Cove experience.

Package prices are in addition to park admission and require the purchase of at least one dolphin swim package. Florida residents receive an exclusive rate of $199 (plus tax) for a dolphin swim package and $99 (plus tax) for a non-dolphin package. The all-inclusive admission includes a light continental breakfast, freshly-prepared lunch and all snacks and beverages throughout the day. Guests have access to all park amenities such as snorkel gear, towels, lockers and parking, as well as a 14-day, unlimited-use pass to either SeaWorld Orlando or Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. With only 1,000 guests per day, Discovery Cove provides a secluded, tropical retreat where couples will engage in up-close encounters with exotic marine life and other animals. The sparkling Tropical Reef provides an incredible underwater playground where couples have unlimited time to snorkel, swim and wade hand-in-hand among hundreds of graceful Cownose and southern rays, colorful tropical fish and other marine life.

In the free-flight Explorer’s Aviary, shady walkways lead through a lush jungle where guests can observe and hand-feed more than 250 exotic birds. A winding river, sandy beaches and resort pool add to the paradise, but the centerpiece of the park, and the highlight of the Discovery Cove experience, is the dolphin interaction. Here, guests learn about, play with and ride alongside a beautiful Atlantic bottlenose dolphin. Each visitor enjoys up-close interactions, such as kissing, petting and feeding the gentle dolphins – for most guests, a dream come true. With each of the Valentine’s packages, a dolphin will help create lifelong memories by personally delivering a “love note” buoy to your sweetheart. For those set to impress this Valentine’s Day, visit DiscoveryCove.com or call 1-877-4-DISCOVERY to make a reservation.

Walt Disney World Passes

Through Dec. 23, 2009, each active or retired member of the U.S. military may obtain one complimentary 5-day “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute” ticket withPark Hopper andWater Park Fun & More options. Walt Disney World Passes is valid for five days of admission into the four Walt Disney World theme parks, plus a total of five visits to a choice of a Disney water park, DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive Theme Park or certain other attractions. During this offer period, active or retired U.S. military personnel may also make a one-time purchase of up to a maximum of five 5-Day “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute Companion” tickets(one theme park per day) for $99 per ticket, plus tax, for family members (including spouse) or friends. Although this ticket for family members and friends does not include either the Park Hopper or Water Park Fun & More options, this ticket can be upgraded to add either such option, or both, for an additional $25, plus tax, per option. Walt Disney World Passes and options are non-transferable and must be used by Dec. 23, 2009. Ask about the great rates that may be available at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels for active or retired U.S. military personnel during this offer period.For information on the “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute” offer at Walt Disney World Resort or the Disneyland Resort, or to make reservations, active and retired U.S. Military personnel may call the ITT office on their base. Information about “Disney’s Armed Forces Salute” offer at Walt Disney World Resort is also available at www.disneyworld.com/military.
Through the years, The Walt Disney Company has demonstrated its support of United States’ servicemen and women through a variety of initiatives. Disney’s support for the U.S. Marines’ Toys for Tots program started 58 years ago – when Walt Disney became one of the original sponsors. Since 1995, Disney’s Operation Uplift program has sent over 90,000 postcards to troops worldwide, thanking them for their service. The company also supports U.S. service members and their families as a sponsor of the USO and its centers. Each year, Operation Disney Care packages, containing Disney DVDs, books, magazines and games, are sent to centers around the world to help entertain the servicemen/women and their families, Disney Minnie Grants are used to host family appreciation events, while Disney VoluntEARS donate many hours participating in local USO projects.

Disney Tinkerbell Cursors

Disney’s Tinkerbell is getting a makeover in the 21st century, plus a whole new batch of companions in Pixie Hollow. Disney Tinkerbell Cursors are available at icon download sites such as Totallyfreecursors.com, but the real treasure trove of Tinkerbell and Pixie Hollow material can be found on the Disney Fairies Web site.

Looking for a Disney Fairy buddy icon or signature icon? The Fairies Web site has all of Tink’s friends: Fawn, Iridessa, Rosetta, Silvermist, Beck, Bess, Fira, Lily, Prilla, Rani, and Vidia. Their names might not be as familiar as the Disney Princesses, but Disney is hoping that with some time (and clever marketing) little girls will embrace the Disney Fairies (and ask their parents to download those Disney Tinkerbell cursors) in the same way that they have delighted in the classic movies and continuing adventures of the Disney princesses.

Kissimmee Florida Hotels

> Walt Disney Maingate Hotels / Kissimmee Hotels <
Gaylord Palms Orlando Resort - $129.00 Special Rate. Selected nights.
Celebration Suites at Old Town - 1 and 2 bedroom suites * Rates from $42.95
Seralago Hotel -Save 35% every day! Rates From $47. Lowest rates guaranteed
Holiday Inn MainGate East - FREE shuttle to Disney. Rates from $59.00
Howard Johnson - Offering cheap rates on Orlando hotels. Book now!
Ramada Maingate West - Kids eat FREE program! FREE shuttle to attractions
Ramada Hotels - Superior amenities and discount rates in hotels near Disney.
Rodeway Inn Maingate - Hotel near Disney World. Rates from $39.95.
Clarion Resort & Waterpark - Full service hotel and state of the art waterpark...
Quality Suites / Royale Parc Suites - 1 and 2 bedroom suites * Free shuttle
Radisson Resort - Orlando discount hotel rates from $79.00. Kids Eat FREE
Disney Universal Area Vacation Homes - Homes & Condos from $79.00.
Knights Inn - Budget rates directly at Disney Maingate from $27.95 p/night!

Free Disney Cursors

Are you getting ready for a trip to Walt Disney World and are trying to get into the mood for the big day? Free Disney cursors on the Web will put you in a Disney state of mind as you point and click your way through your upcoming travel plans. Free Disney cursors are available at sites such as Totallyfreecursors.com and Disneythemes.com, which also includes wallpaper and other Disney desktop themes.

Some of the most popular free Disney cursors include Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Daisy and Donald Duck (especially the animated versions of these cursors) and Ariel the Little Mermaid. Another popular Disney cursor is Tinkerbell, best known as Peter Pan’s companion in the original Disney movie, and now the star of her own feature film on DVD, plus a related line of Disney fairy toys.

Sea World Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando introduces a new, theatrical performance, A’Lure, The Call of the Ocean, an aquatic tapestry combining powerful athleticism, high-energy acrobats, and mesmerizing electronic visuals.
Set to a musical score recorded by the Seattle Symphony Orchestra, this dynamic 30-minute production takes guests on an enchanting journey through the ocean’s depths and mysteries, telling the spectacular tale of Sea Sirens, whose hypnotic calls have lured entranced fishermen into their underwater lairs for centuries.
A’Lure, The Call of the Ocean unfolds on a massive stage before an oversized projection screen – creating a vibrant, underwater world beyond imagination, displaying animated images of interactive schools of fish, graceful manta rays, and daunting 25-foot sea serpents. Featuring a dozen acrobats from China, the mariner’s story comes to life with gravity-defying aerial tumblers, scaling pole climbers, lyrical dancers, unicycle champions and diablo yo-yo performers. Daily performances can be seen at SeaWorld’s Nautilus Theater. Search for hotels near sea world orlando

Disney shows from the 90s

Trying to remember the name of a kids’ program from 10 or 15 years ago but you just can’t seem to remember the name of it? Wikipedia has a listing of Disney shows from the 90s and 80s that is sure to jog the memories of Disney Channel fans who might also recall when Disney was a premium cable channel.

Out of all the Disney shows from the 90s, only the characters from The New Adventures of Winnie the Pooh still appear to be running around Walt Disney World. As newer shows have entered the Disney Channel lineup—such as The Little Einsteins, Hannah Montana and High School Musical—characters from these current shows are most likely to be seen at Disney’s Hollywood Studios or in the gift shop of just about any Disney theme park.

If you have more questions about a show you saw (or thought you saw) on the Disney Channel. Send in a question to “Ask Dave” at the Disney Insider Web site. Dave is the resident expert on all things Disney on TV, in the movies and at the theme parks.

Discovery Cove Announces 2009 Florida Resident Rate

Discovery Cove's Florida resident rate is valid:
January 1 – March 31, 2009
April 27 – May 22, 2009
September 8 – December 18, 2009

Discovery Cove's Florida resident offer has returned for 2009, giving residents of the Sunshine State a special rate of $199 plus tax for an all-inclusive dolphin swim and $99 plus tax for non-dolphin swim admission when they book their Discovery Cove vacation at DiscoveryCove.com or by calling 1-877-434-7268 or (407) 370-1280.

Discovery Cove is an all-inclusive family adventure in which guests enjoy a one-of-a-kind opportunity to swim with dolphins, snorkel with rays and tropical fish, hand-feed exotic birds and relax on pristine beaches. Admission also includes a light continental breakfast, freshly prepared lunch, unlimited snacks and beverages, (including Anheuser-Busch beverages for those 21 years of age), dolphin-safe sunscreen, snorkel equipment, locker rental, wetsuits and towels. Florida residents booking at this special rate will receive an unlimited use pass to their choice of either SeaWorld Orlando or Busch Gardens Tampa Bay for up to 14 consecutive days.

At Discovery Cove, guests experience the most exciting animal encounters the world has to offer in a 30-acre tropical oasis. Discovery Cove is a paradise of rocky lagoons surrounded by lush landscaping, coral reefs, tropical river, a resort-style pool complete with waterfalls and pristine, white sand beaches.


Visit DiscoveryCove.com and click on "Special Rates for Florida Residents” at the bottom of the home page to review full promotional details and orlando hotel reservations

Sound of Sunshine Show Chorus

The award winning Sound of Sunshine Show Chorus, chapter of Sweet Adelines - is proud to announce their 2009 Annual Show featuring the hilariously funny Lunch Break quartet.
Come enjoy a night of music, bring the family and support the local arts.
Date: Sunday, February 08, 2009 Time: 3:00pm
Event: ab-SALUTE-ly Music 2009Location: Winter Springs High School Auditorium130 Tuskawilla Road, Winter Springs
Tickets: $15.00 Adults – Students $10.00 – Under 5 freeFor more information please visit soundofsunshine.com

Orlando Charter Bus

In and around the Orlando area, USACHAUFFEUR is ready to handle all of your local transportation needs. Based in Orlando, USACHAUFFEUR is the Orlando charter bus service that is best equipped to handle motor coach transportation services using the most stylish late model European motor coaches. The buses are comfortably air conditioned for the Central Florida climate with all of the amenities one would expect from a full service transportation company.

USACHAUFFEUR offers competitive pricing for its charter bus service which can accommodate a wide variety of events and group outings. USACHAUFFEUR can easily handle your requirements for the following functions:

• Convention center events
• Corporate events
• Church functions
• Sports team events
• Senior citizen charters
• School trips
• Group charters
• Multi-day charters
• Casino trips
• Weddings

For safe, reliable Orlando charter bus service—all vehicles and drivers are fully licensed and insured—call USACHAUFFEUR at 407-239-1551 or toll free at 1-800-820-5705.

Disney Hotels

> Walt Disney Maingate Hotels / Kissimmee Hotels < Gaylord Palms Orlando Resort - $109.00 Special Rate. Selected nights.
Fun Spots Hotel at Fountain Park- Free shuttle to Disney! Rates from $34.00
Seralago Hotel -Save 20% every day! Rates From $47. Lowest rates guaranteed
Howard Johnson Kissimmee - Walt Disney Good Neighbor Hotel. Low rates!
Ramada Hotels - Superior amenities and discount rates in hotels near Disney.
Radisson WorldGate Orlando Resort - 4 day Disney Package for only $199.00
Holiday Inn Main Gate East- Free shuttle to Disney! Rates from $69.00
Rodeway Inn Maingate - Hotel near Disney World. Rates from $39.95.
Clarion Resort & Waterpark - Full service hotel and state of the art waterpark...
Royale Parc Suites - Free shuttle to attractions * 1 and 2 family suites
Suites at Old Town - 1 and 2 bedroom suites * FREE shuttle to Magic Kingdom
Mike Ditka Resorts:Runaway Beach 1 to 3 bedroom family condos near Disney
Radisson Resort - Orlando discount hotel 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 - Orlando cheap hotel deals! Just $29.00 p/day including fees & tax

Orlando Airport Marriott Offers Prime Location with Fewer Crowds

The newly renovated Orlando Airport Marriott has always given guests the advantage of a centralized location without the large crowds that are expected along International Drive as well as the Disney and Universal resort areas. Business travelers and vacationers have easy access to downtown Orlando, the Orange County Convention Center, as well as all of the theme park attractions that have made Orlando an international travel destination. Located just one mile from the Orlando International Airport on Augusta National Drive, the Orlando Airport Marriott is close to a variety of popular restaurants, including Tony Roma’s, TGIFriday’s, Cracker Barrel, Chili’s Grill and Bar and many more.

With so many new amenities to enjoy, guests might not want to venture too far from the Orlando Airport Marriott. The hotel restaurants include the Porterhouse steak house, which serves up generous portions of U.S. Prime beef, fresh seafood, hearty side dishes and delicious dessert choices; while the LUXE restaurant offers traditional American fare while dinner guests enjoy the view overlooking Lake Michelle.

Visitors to the Orlando Airport Marriott will discover a hotel with environmentally friendly facilities and unsurpassed amenities. As a member of the Florida Green Lodging Program, the hotel has a sophisticated, modern flair with the most up to date technology. The updated fitness center also has state of the art equipment, and the banquet facilities make the Orlando Airport Marriott an ideal location for weddings and other important events. Easy to find, and easy to enjoy, the Orlando Airport Marriott offers a prime location with fewer crowds that guests will appreciate every time they visit Orlando.

Orlando Vacation Homes For Rent

Upcoming Auditions for Disney Channel
Disney World What Will You Celebrate
New Year’s Eve at Universal CityWalk
Guests Can Pay For a Day, Come Back All Year
New Year’s Eve at Walt Disney World
Orlando Hotels International Drive
Things to See Around Orlando: Rising Star at Unive...
Church Bus Rental
Makahiki Christmas Luau at SeaWorld Orlando
Santa Makes One Last Stop At Aquatica

SeaWorld Orlando Kids Play & Stay Free Package

SeaWorld Orlando, Aquatica and select Marriott hotels have extended their Kids Play & Stay Free package, so that even more families will have the opportunity to enjoy everything that SeaWorld and Aquatica have to offer.

The Kids Play & Stay Free package is available at the Orlando World Center Marriott Resort, JW Marriott Grande Lakes, Renaissance Orlando Resort at SeaWorld, Residence Inn SeaWorld International Center, Residence Inn Orlando International Drive, Courtyard Orlando International Drive Convention Center, Fairfield Inn & Suites International Drive, and the Marriott Grande Vista.

Each Kids Play & Stay Free package includes the following amenities:
· Deluxe accommodations
· Exclusive "Length of Stay" tickets to SeaWorld Orlando, giving guests the flexibility to come and go to SeaWorld Orlando for up to 14 consecutive days from first visit
· Free kid's ticket for each adult ticket purchased (two-ticket maximum - ages 3 to 9 years old)
· A free plush toy for each child
· SeaWorld Guest Value Card with a number of special SeaWorld offers

For more information on the Kids Play & Stay Free package and to make a reservation, call 1-888-922-7829.

Disney Princess Party

It's a tea party fit for a princess at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. Girls are encouraged to attend dressed up in their favorite princess attire and enjoy tea filled with fantasy and delight at My Disney Girl's Perfectly Princess Tea Party offered in the Garden View Lounge.
Little princesses will get the royal treatment with tea for two, deliciously decorative princess cakes, plus a personal meet-and-greet with Princess Aurora from the classic Disney animated film "Sleeping Beauty." The enchanting tea party is hosted by Miss Rose Petal, a magical rose from Aurora's garden that has come to life to lead storytelling, sing-alongs and a princess parade.
But that's just the beginning of the magical experience. Guests age 3-11 also receive a My Disney Girl doll dressed in a matching Princess Aurora gown, plus accessories. Special princesses also take home their very own ribbon tiara, silver princess link bracelet, fresh rose, special scrapbook set and a Best Friend certificate.

Dive in to Package Deals at Renaissance Orlando Resort at SeaWorld

The Renaissance Orlando Resort at SeaWorld is currently offering a number of special packages for guests who want to maximize their savings as well as their Orlando experience. Located across the road from SeaWorld and adjacent to Discovery Cove and Orlando’s newest water park Aquatica, the Renaissance Orlando Resort at SeaWorld is only steps away from some of the most popular attractions that Orlando has to offer, with Walt Disney World and Universal Studios only a short drive from the resort.

The special package deals for the Renaissance Orlando Resort at SeaWorld include:
• Orlando Fifth Night Free package, where guests can stay for four nights and the fifth night is free.
• A $100 resort credit for guests who stay three nights.
• The Stay for Breakfast package, featuring breakfast for two adults and up to two children under the age of 12.
• AAA Orlando Hotel Rate, featuring a deluxe guest room with a king bed or two queen beds.

There are many more package deals available, including special spa packages at the neu lotus spa, the Renaissance Orlando Resort’s main location for relaxation and rejuvenation. A number of spa services are available, including the signature Zen garden custom massage experience, a variety of facials and body treatments, and beauty salon services that are perfect for a girls’ night out or a little “me” time.

To learn more about the Renaissance Orlando Resort at SeaWorld, visit the hotel Web site or call 1-800-380-7917 for more details about the upscale package offerings available at the resort that combines modern luxury with an ideal location.

Upcoming Auditions for Disney Channel

Throughout the year, information will be posted on various Web sites about upcoming auditions for the Disney Channel. The following Disney Channel and Disney XD shows are currently in production and are now casting principal acting roles and extras: JONAS, Sonny with Chance, Hannah Montana, Wizards of Waverly Place, Zeke and Luther, Suite Life on Deck, I’m with the Band (pilot episode) and Oops! (pilot episode).

Several Disney Channel original movies and feature films are also going into pre-production soon, including Camp Rock 2, High School Musical 4, Avalon High and Wizards of Waverly Place: The Movie. Keep in mind that talent agents are supposed to earn a percentage of each job they book for an actor or model AFTER that booking has been paid. Paying up front fees to a talent agent is a big red flag.

UPDATE: A full listing of Disney auditions throughout the country (which includes character performers for the Disney resorts and theme park parades, special events, and the Disney Cruise Line) are available through the Disney corporate Web site. Auditions specific to live theatre, music, feature films and television programs (which may or may not include Disney Channel programs) are listed at DisneyChannelAuditions.com, however it is not an official Disney Web site. For local Orlando residents wishing to hire a professional talent agent, visit Filmorlando.com.

Disney World What Will You Celebrate

In 2009, Disney Parks poses the question “What Will You Celebrate?” in response to a travel trend that finds American families hitting the road to mark life’s special occasions. And to put guests in the spirit, Walt Disney World Resort is offering free admission to everyone who visits one of its theme parks on their birthday in 2009.

“Birthdays are the one occasion that we all share every year,” said Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. “We thought a free birthday ticket would be the icing on the cake as we extend this ‘celebration vacation’ trend to Disney Parks. “We see our parks as the ideal setting for a personal celebration,” Rasulo continued. “Guests can immerse themselves in their favorite stories and their favorite characters, creating a visit they’ll never forget.”

Walt Disney World guests can choose from experiences ranging from breathtaking (magical fireworks cruises, sunrise safaris, diving the depths with undersea creatures) to mirth-making (Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, character dining, kids’ pirate adventures) in order to personalize their celebration. Even the Disney florist has gotten into the act, creating special offerings that silently scream “surprise!” when vacationers open their guest-room door.And to aid guests as they plan their personal celebrations, a new Web-based tool at Disney Park helps guests sort through the possibilities – whether the occasion is a birthday, anniversary, reunion, personal accomplishment, first visit or something else. Orlando Hotel Reservations