Some late availability in September and early October 2010

September is a great time to visit Florida - the weather is generally good and the summer crowds are receding.

Take advantage of some last minute availability at my vacation home and get yourself a great rate. I have availability in my beautiful home from 16th September to 9th October 2010.

Save $$$ with a fantastic late deal of onl US$800 per week during this time. This rate includes all taxes and final cleaning. Pool & spa heating is available for $180 per week or choose just spa heating for only $110 per week.

And we don't take a huge damage deposit from you either - a small one-off payment of $54 secures an insurance policy which covers you against any accidental damage for your entire stay. Peace of mind and no worries about getting your damage deposit back.

Looking for that last minute getaway to Florida - then look no further for luxury accommodation at a great value price. Visit http://www.floridaorlandovilla.com/ for more information or email Angela at ang@floridaorlandovilla.com to secure your booking now.

Restaurant Review - Disney's Victoria & Albert's at the Grand Floridian Resort

If you're looking for somewhere really special to eat while on holiday in Orlando then Disney's Victoria & Albert's restaurant is the perfect choice. The restaurant has been awarded the AAA Firve Diamond award which reflects its great food and service.


We've eaten there twice now, once as a couple and once with friends and both evenings were wonderful and I can really recommend giving it a try.

It's not a cheap night out but if you are looking for something special, I think it's worth every penny. Let's get the financial stuff out of the way first - it costs $125 per person which includes tax but drinks and tips are extra. They offer a wine pairing service - where you get a glass of wine to accompany each course - this is $60 per person. However, valet parking at the hotel is free if you are dining at the V&A so take advantage of this little perk.

The restaurant is open from 5pm to 9.45pm. Oh and this is one of the few Disney restaurants with a strict dress code. Gentlemen must wear a jacket, dress pants and shoes (a tie isn't compulsory though) and ladies are asked to wear evening wear - a cocktail dress or elegant trouser suit would be appropriate but long dresses will fit right in too. Definitely no flip flops, jeans, shorts, sandals, capri pants, tennis shoes or sneakers. So this is somewhere you need to go home and change after a day out and about in the sun. Dress to impress as they say!!

It's a very grown up environment and the meal itself takes between 2 and 2 1/2 hours so not really suitable for children. Well-behaved children over the age of 10 are admitted but strictly no under 10s. On our first visit there was a young boy (probably about 13/14) on the next table to us with a wedding party and he was a delightful young man - perfectly behaved and beautiful manners. If your child is like that I'm sure he'll be very welcome - if they're like my two boys - think food is for eating as quickly as possible so as not to interrupt their games and activities then it's definitely best to leave them at home. There is a kids club at the Grand Floridian where you can leave children up to 12 for supervised play while you dine.

Rather than eat in the main restaurant you can opt for the Chef's Table. I've not done this but I've read great reviews - you get to dine inside the kitchen and interact with the chef - tasting all the food etc. It doesn't appeal to me at all as I much prefer not sitting in the kitchen to eat my meal and I like the more formal nature of the main dining room but if you love cooking and want to take the opportunity to chat with the chef then you might enjoy this option. It does book up fast though so ring early.

In the main dining room, you'll be served by your own personal Victoria and Albert (yes, really - all the waiting staff are coinidentally called either Victoria or Albert! - how do they find them all I wonder?) - you get a personalised menu as well to take away as a souvenir.

So, now to the important stuff - what's on the menu? One of the highlights of the meal for me and my husband is the smallest course - the amuse bouche. My husband doesn't eat meat so they offered him the choice of choosing non-meat dishes from the main menu or ordering from the vegetarian menu (or he could mix/match - they are very accommodating). He chose to have the veggie menu so his amuse bouche was an even smaller morsel than mine because mine had a solitary prawn on it. But it's not meant to fill you up - it is just something to get your taste buds into anticipatory expectation - and it does. Such a tasty little morsel - and beautifully presented and served.

Starters included cavier (at an extra cost of from $60) - I'm not a huge fan myself so certainly wouldn't want to pay extra for it but it's there if you want it. More to my taste is the Gulf Shrimp or Minnesota Elk Carpaccio.

Then there is a fish course - options included Wild Turbot, Salmon and Halibut - all beautifully presented with tasty garnishes.

This was followed by a Zucchini-Tomato soup, White Asparagus or Duck confit. Each course seems quite small but it is surprising how full you get after just a few - and there are plenty more to come.

The entree course included a delicious Ranch Lamb, Pork Tenderloin or Veal - of the "Kobe" Beef for an extra $35. All served with potatoes and fresh veggies.

Now for the most serious course - you know what I mean - yes, that's it - DESSERT. Now everyone knows that dessert should be the largest course in a meal and this is something they get spot on at the V&A - their desserts are delicious, spectacular and very large! Particularly when you've already eaten quite enough already. But one has to have dessert!

The Kona Chocolate Souffle is heavenly, so is the Vanilla Bean Creme Brulee - and you won't be surprised to hear that so are the Grand Marnier Souffle, Banana Gateau and Chocolate pyramid. The spun sugar and other decorations make these such hugely special desserts.

Oh, I forgot to mention the cheese course. A small selection of delectable cheeses. Are you hungry yet?

Just time to relax with a coffee - even this is a spectacle at the V&A.

If you like the sound of it and want to try it for yourself, you can book a table at the V&A by ringing 407-939-3862

Disney's Victoria and Albert's - the perfect place for that special meal while staying at our fabulous vacation villa in Orlando, Florida - http://www.floridaorlandovilla.com/

Why is staying in a vacation villa better value than staying in a hotel?

A lot of people who go to the Orlando area on holiday still stay in hotels. Perhaps it's because staying in a hotel is the obvious choice when you go on holiday - but is it?
There are so many more benefits to staying in a vacation villa but is it still bette value to stay in a hotel? Let's compare:

One of the nearest big hotels to my villa is Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge - and a very impressive hotel it is too. I've chosen it because it makes sense to use a hotel in the same general location - although we are a few minutes drive west of the AKL the same restaurants, shops, theme parks are close to both of us.

My villa sleeps up to 10 in 4 bedrooms and a sofa bed in the lounge but for the purposes of this comparison we'll say 8 so we won't use the sofa bed. Let's take a large family group - Grandma and Grandpa, Mum and Dad, 20 year old son with his new wife and two younger children. Just the kind of family group that enjoy a fabulous vacation in sunny Orlando, Florida.

Staying at the Animal Kingdom Lodge for this group would need at least 3 rooms - unless the newly-weds don't mind sharing with Grandma and Grandpa - but we'll assume that's not a popular option.

That means the cheapest option is 3 x standard rooms (with Mum and Dad sharing with the kids) -the total cost for the 3 rooms for a week in August is £4074 - thankfully, that includes tax.

Now let's look at the cost to stay at my villa for a week for this group of 8 people - the same week in August would cost the grand total of £695. That's not per person - that's for the entire villa. And you get 4 rooms so Mum and Dad can have a room to themselves.

So now I've got your attention - well that's a saving of £3379 - think what you can do with that on your vacation.

Just as an aside - even for a couple - (or for a family of 4 all sharing one room) there is a saving of £663 to stay at my villa - and of course no sharing - well not unless you want to.

So cost for cost it's just obvious isn't it - staying at my vacation villa makes perfect sense. So how to the facilities compare - we've already looked at the issue of space and in the villa you get so much more for your money.

At the AKL you get a room with two double beds, a bathroom, TV, coffee maker, fridge, safe, iron and board, hairdryer.

At the villa you get cable TV in every bedroom - our master bedroom has a king-sized bed and it's own bathroom, in addition there is a 2nd bathroom, double bedroom and two bedrooms with twin-beds. Like Disney we like a little bit of theming so we have a beautiful Mickey & Friends bedroom with wrought iron Mickey ears beds, Disney artwork and little touches like the ears rug. We also provide hair dryers in both bathrooms.

We also provide a coffee maker, fridge and iron and board but unlike the hotel, my villa has a full kitchen with full-size fridge-freezer, cooker, microwave, kettle, pots/pans etc, crockery and cutlery - plus a full size washer and dryer - and plenty of space to sit and eat - we have seating for everyone - with 6 seats at the main dining room table and 4 seats at the smaller nook table.

So far it's looking good for the villa isn't it? And, remember that £3379 you're saving!!!!

The hotel has a nice pool area - well so do we. Ok, our pool isn't quite as large but then you don't have to share ours - and it doesn't close. In the cooler months, you'll also find ours is much warmer if you have the pool heating on. The hotel has plenty of loungers and chairs to relax but if you want to use one you'll have to get up early and put your towel down. In my villa you can wander out whenever you want and sit in the sun - these loungers - very comfortable padded ones too - are exclusively for you and the only people sitting on them will be you.

The hotel has a spa - but you might have to wait to get a turn in it. And when you do get your turn, you may well have to share. Oh, for exclusive access to the spa - where you can relax for as long as you like - even take a glass of wine perhaps without getting glares from impatient people waiting for their turn. Remember, there is no waiting your turn at the villa - every facilty we have is exclusively for you!!! Go on - you deserve it!

If  you want a larger pool for laps we can provide that too - although I can't guarantee you won't have to share the community pool, it's always much quieter than a hotel pool. The community also have a tennis court and basketball court - both of which have been recently refurbished and are in excellent condition and available only to residents and guests.

So, where was I? What other facilities does the hotel have on offer? Well there's the lounge and bar areas. The lounge areas have some nice comfy sofas to relax in although it's a bit public to put your feet up and there's no TV - back to your room for that. The lounge area in my villa is perfect for relaxing - comfy sofas - a convenient coffee table for your drinks - and a large 37" LCD TV with extended cable package - which means you can relax and catch up on British sport - yes, premiership football (England and Scotland) - no need to drive all over Orlando looking for a pub with the British sport on it when you stay in my villa. For those who're not so keen on sport, our cable TV shows a huge range of movies/sitcoms/comedy/cartoons etc as well - and best of all you can watch a different channel is every bedroom if you want to - so no more arguing over what to watch.

The hotel offers a video games room which is great but unless your kids are older you'll have to go down and supervise them so no putting your feet up. On the other hand, in my villa we have a games room - with pool table and a multi-activity fussball table - plus magnetic darts (no pointy bits!) and we have a playstation 2 with games as well. So plenty to keep the kids amused - and when the kids are happy!!!!!!!

What about restaurants and bars? Well, the hotel does have these - and the villa doesn't - sorry!!! BUT - we are within 2 minutes of Super-Walmart (open 24 hours a day) and two other supermarkets so you can stock up on beer/wine/soft drinks and bring them back to the vila with you where they will chill very nicely in our large fridge (and there's an ice maker in the freezer too). We even supply plastic glasses (even wine glasses) so you are very welcome to take drinks outside and relax on the pool deck (or in the spa) - I love a really cold glass of sparkling wine in the evening while lounging in the spa.

If it really has to be a bar, then there is one within walking distance - less than 5 minutes - which has a full liquor licence.

There are restaurants within walking distance although if you don't mind driving for 5-10 minutes you'll get such a huge selection it's hard to choose. And, there's always the option of eating in at the villa - either cooking yourself - how about a bbq? Or there are plenty of take aways nearby - many of which will deliver to the villa.

Have I convinced you yet? You've got to admit it's far better value to stay in a villa than a hotel - even if your party is a small one. All that space, all those exclusive amenities. Try it, you'll like it!

Now the only decisions to be made are when do you want to stay? Contact me now and I can help you with availability and provide a personal quote - http://www.floridaorlandovilla.com/

And, what are you going to spend that £3379 on that you've just saved? You can contact me about that too if you like - perhaps you'd like to stay an extra week!

Orlando Restaurant Review - Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant

Raglan Road restaurant is located at Downtown Disney and is open for lunch, dinner and late-night snacks. You can find it just through Pleasure Island if approaching from the Cirque de Soleil end or just before Pleasure Island if approaching from the Disney Marketplace end.

This is a great location - plenty of free parking and easy to get too. We usually find there is more available parking if you drive to the Cirque/Disney Quest end of the parking lot as the Marketplace parking can get quite full - it's no further to walk.

Raglan Road has become one of our favourite eating places at Disney. The atmosphere is relaxed and fun and the service is good. It is popular so well worth calling ahead for a reservation although we've always managed to get next-day and same-day reservations so it's quite doable. You can ring Disney Dining for reservations on 407-939-3463 - and you can also book online at http://www.opentable.com/ - which I find particularly convenient.

The food is good and the menu has something for everyone. Themed around authentic Irish food created by one of Ireland's celebrity chefs, Kevin Dundon - the menu includes such favourites as fish 'n' chips, Irish beef stew, bangers and mash and of course you can get a pint of Guiness here too.

Other dishes include Crock 'o' Mussels, Shepherd's Pie, Sirloin Burger, Ribs, Sirloin Steak. They do a fabulous Chowder called 'It's not bleedin' chowder' full of musells, prawns, scallops etc - very tasty.

Desserts include Bread and Butter pudding, Strawberry and apple crumble, Bailey's Creme Brulee, Trifle or there's a fruit basket with yoghurt and honey. Dunbrody Kiss is an absolute stunner - made of chocolate and chocolate - and more chocolate.

There's also an all-day Bar menu featuring soups and some of the pub classics and there's a kids menu too with burger, chicken goujons and small versions of the shepherd's pie and fish and chips.

In addition to the Guinness they have a full drinks list - the best of Irish and European beers which includes Murphy's, Smithwick, Newcastle Brown and Boddington's Ales plus a range of lagers such as Harp, Stella and Kronenbourg.

They also feature a range of both Irish Whiskey and Scotch Whisky and some great cocktails - 'One for the Road', 'Double Berry Tini', 'The Dubliner' and 'Chocolate Martini' - oh so much chocolate - notice a bit of a theme here!!! Of course, they also have a full bar menu and soft drinks.

The music is lively Irish music and guests are encouraged to get up and dance if they want to.

The perfect place to eat when staying at our beautiful vacation villa in Orlando Florida - http://www.floridaorlandovilla.com/

Orlando Restaurant Review - Seasons 52

Fed up of eating junk food in Orlando? Looking for something that doesn't come with fries and won't ruin your waistline? Then, you'll love Seasons 52.

I discovered this gem of a restaurant a couple of years ago and it really is a find. They specialise in serving really tasty, fresh food which is healthy and wonderful to look at. The menus are seasonal which means the foods are prepared when they are at their best. Using fresh ingredients means the colour of the food is spectacular, take a look at these photos.

And they taste every bit as good as they look! The custom flatbreads (chicken one shown above right) were a great hit with my children and I loved the Tomato stack salad (centre). To the left is the Grouper with risotto which just melts in the mouth.

Am I making you hungry? Wait until you see the fabulous desserts on offer. Because this is a restuarant which focuses on healthy eating they have these marvellous mini indulgences which are small versions of traditional desserts.

Favourites include: Key Lime Pie, Old Fashioned Carrot Cake, Rocky Road, Chocolate Peanut Butter Mousse, Mocha Macchiato and Pecan Pie. From time to time they also feature seasonal favourites like Pumpkin Pie Mini with Double Gingersnap Crust in the Fall, Strawberry Shortcake in the Spring and Summer Blueberry Cheesecake in the Summer.

Add to this a well stocked wine list and a casually elegant and very welcoming atmosphere and you'll see why Seasons 52 is now on my must-do list for our stays in the Orlando area.

They also do a range of alternative menus for those with specials requirements including: low sodium, gluten free, garlic free, vegetarian and vegan. They even have a take out menu - beats any takeaway I've ever had.

There are restaurants all over Florida so look out for them in Altamonte Springs, Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale, Palm Beach Gardens and Tampa as well as Orlando.

You can find the Orlando restaurant at:


Plaza Venezia
7700 Sand Lake Road
Orlando, FL 32819

Phone: (407) 354-5212
Fax: (407) 345-1109


Restaurant Hours

Monday-Friday:

Lunch: 11:30AM - 2:30PM
Dinner: 5:00PM - 10:00PM
(11:00PM on Friday)

Saturday:
Open 11:30AM - 11:00PM

Sunday:
Open 11:30AM - 10:00PM

You can even book online:
http://www.seasons52.com/reservations1.asp

For all the details including sample menus, check out their website at http://www.seasons52.com/

The perfect place to eat while staying at our beautiful vacation villa in Orlando Florida - http://www.floridaorlandovilla.com/

Orlando Restaurant Review - Olive Garden

One of my favourite restaurants for lunch in the Orlando/Disney area. Although this is a very popular restaurant that often has queues in the evening for dinner it is usually much quieter for lunch. Not that it's not worth waiting for in the evening - and they deal with queues very efficiently using a pager. We find we can usually walk straight in at lunchtime and get at table for 4 or 6.

The lunchtime 'Soup and Salad' option is fantastic value and you get the wonderful garlic breadsticks as well. They keep them coming too so no danger of going home early. The fresh, green salad is one of the reasons I love this place so much.

If you want something a bit more substantial, then all the entrees come with choice of salad or soup and of course, the breadsticks. The minestrone soup is particularly popular with my family. You can also order a choice of dipping sauces for the breadsticks but they are just as wonderful on their own.

The lunchtime menu includes a good range of pizza and pizza dishes whilst the evening menu contains are rather more extensive range of meat and fish dishes as well. I've never been able to fit in a dessert after all those breadsticks but if anyone has and can offer an opinion let me know.

The perfect place to eat while staying at our beautiful vacation villa in Orlando Florida - http://www.floridaorlandovilla.com/

Free wifi at Orlando International Airport

Travellers to Orlando International Airport will be pleased to hear that the airport will be offering free wifi as part of a deal worked out with Google. There will also be up to 50 free internet surfing kiosks installed  for those who don't have a laptop with them.

Free phone calls will also be available via Google VOICE for international travellers. There are rumours of British-style telephone boxes being installed.

There will, of course, be advertising but Google insist this will not be intrusive.

Sounds good.

Florida Theme Park Tips

Wondering how to get the most out of your Orlando vacation? Here are just a few tips that might help:

For the main theme parks - Disney's Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios and Universal's Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios - always arrive early. Find out what time your chosen park opens that day and make sure you are at the gate with your ticket in hand at least 15 minutes before that time. You'll get so much more done with the lesser crowds. By the time the real crowds are building up you'll be in a good position to take a break and head back to the villa for a swim and cool down.

Eat breakfast in the villa - then you're all set to go as soon as you get in the parks. No point wasting the least crowded part of the days queuing for breakfast.

If you're visiting the Disney water parks - Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach - you are allowed to take a cooler with drinks and food (no glass and no alcohol though). There is a wheeled cooler at the villa so pop some of the ice packs in the freezer overnight and load up your picnic. It's a great way to save money but it also means you've got all your favourite picnic foods on hand whenever you want them. The kids can graze whenever they feel hungry and you don't have to queue with everyone else and take time out of your day. Try freezing juice boxes - helps keep your food cool and are lovely to drink later on. Also remember the refillable mug system at the Disney water parks where you can buy a mug (or if you already have a mug just buy a sticker for that day - there are usually plenty of mugs in the cupboard at the villa for you to use).

You can make reservations at the theme park restaurants and hotel restaurants even when you are staying in a villa so make sure you book ahead if there is somewhere you particularly want to eat. Victoria and Albert's and Narcoosee's at the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa are great options for a special night out. Outisde the parks, personal favourites of mine are Vila de Flora at the Gaylord Palms Hotel and Seasons 52 near International Drive. Look out for some of my restaurant reviews coming up soon.

Keep baggage to a minimum - use a waist pack only if you can when you're visiting the theme parks - this way you don't have to worry about putting bags in lockers for the thrill rides - this is of particular benefit at Universal parks where the lockers often have long queues and are quite tricky to use.

You can buy cheap rain ponchos in the supermarkets and at the dollar stores. Buy a few and carry them with you on days when it looks like rain or if you want to wear them for the wet rides. Rain ponchos in the theme parks look nicer but they cost a lot more.

Fastpass at Disney theme parks is free and available to all guests. Make use of it as much as possible to maximise your time particularly for the very popular rides. Either get a fastpass and ride other rides until your return time or take the time out to have a drink or just browse the stores.

Wear comfortable shoes - this is no time to break in a new pair of shoes. The theme parks are huge and you'll be amazed at how far you walk every day so comfortable shoes are a theme park guest's best friend. I like crocs myself and they're easy to slip off and cool my feet in one of the little fountain areas for the children.

If you have small children with you who can't ride the thrill rides don't worry - you can still ride. If you all get in the queue together and tell the cast members that you want to use baby swap. They will direct you to where you can wait with the smaller children while the other members of your family ride - when their ride is finished they can come to you and it's your turn. If you have more than 1 other member of your group that is tall enough you can take them with you for your turn so you won' thave to ride alone and they get a second ride. A similar system exists at all the Disney, Universal and Sea World parks for any height restricted attractions.

If you have children in your group who want to meet the characters the best way to do this without queuing and crowds is by taking them to a character meal. You can get character meals at loads of Disney restaurants for both breakfast, lunch and dinner - just ring Disney Dining and book ahead as they are popular. You are guaranteed to meet the characters though - and they will come to you and your table so plenty of time to take photos. And it's not just for parties with children - you won't be the only ones with just adults in your group so don't let that put you off.

Aquatica - more than just a water park!

SeaWorld's popular water park, Aquatica is a great day out for all the family with a fantastic range of pools, lazy rivers, slides and beaches to keep everyone amused.

But there's more to Aquatica than water thrills. Did you know that Aquatica is also home to a vast range of wildlife. The Commerson Dolphins are the most famous residents. Approximately 5 feet in length and weighing around 100 pounds, these dolphin are fast and agile. Their distinctive black and white colouring makes them look more like small killer whales than dolphins and they are a relative of the killer whale. The Commerson's dolphins can be seen from the transparent slide tube or via the underground viewing area below the pool.


Throughout the park you will also find the colourful Macaws - these social birds are native to the rainforests of Central and South America.

Of course, since it is a water park you would expect to find some fish and Aquatica does not disappoint. The  colourful African Cichlids abound.

Guests will encounter a number of what Aquatica calls its Walk-around animal ambassadors. Designed to delight and amaze these include the Giant Anteater, Laughing Kookaburra, Sulcata Tortoise (one of the largest specise of tortoise) and the Roseate Spoonbill (a pink wading bird).

Latest availability

We are pretty much booked for the summer months now although we have plenty of availability later in the year. We do have a few dates left though if you are looking for a last minute break. Contact us now for any of these dates:

27th June to 4th July 2010
16th to 21st July 2010

There is good availability after 18th August 2010 and at the moment we still have availability over the Christmas period. Contact us now to secure your booking.

http://www.floridaorlandovilla.com/

Advantages of a vacation villa holiday

I came across these towels for sale yesterday and it made me think of one of the great advantages of renting a vacation villa over staying in a hotel or apartment complex. It's so wonderful to have your own pool & spa on holiday which is exclusively for your family to use.

No getting up early in the morning and rushing down to the pool to put your towels on a sun lounger. In a vacation villa the sun loungers are all yours. So is the pool - no more worries about other people's children splashing you as you try to quietly read a book - of course there's not much you can do about your own children splashing you (as I know too well) !!!!

No more waiting for a space in the spa either. Isn't it wonderful to have this luxury just sitting outside the vacation villa waiting for you so you can just slip in whenever you want to. One of the things I enjoy most is being able to use the pool in the evening after a day in the theme parks or on the golf course. When the kids are all tired and hot it's a great way to cool them down and relax them before bedtime. And once they're settled you can enjoy a cool drink and rejuvinate those tired feet in the spa.

With complimentary heating the pool & spa are available at our Esprit villa for your enjoyment year round. Whether you like an early morning swim or late night dip or just want to take a day off from all the hectic activities in Orlando, your vacation villa pool & spa are always ready and waiting for you. Just for you.

That's a luxury you can't get at any other vacation accommodation and it's a luxury that doesn't cost the earth. When it comes to value for money on holiday you can't beat our Orlando vacation villa.

Visit http://www.floridaorlandovilla.com/ for more details and start planning your Orlando holiday in our fabulous villa.

Queues, Queues and more Queues

Queues of up to 9 hours greeted guests arriving to see the new Harry Potter themed land at Islands of Adventure. Unprecented queues began OUTSIDE the park with guests queuing round past the Hard Rock Cafe and the Universal Globe, back into City Walk before they could even enter the main park.

Once inside more queues greeted them - this time to get inside the new Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Guests waited in lines which stretched all the way around the park as cast members warned them that even after waiting 9 hours they might not make it inside the land before the park closed.

Those lucky enough to gain access faced more queues to get inside the shops and restaurants with 2 hour plus queues for the new ride, The Forbidden Journey.

Unfortunately for those who gave up there were also long queues at Guest Services for refunds and complaints.

Clearly the Harry Potter experience is enormously popular and for those who want to see it now it looks like the queues will continue. Although it looks set to remain popular I'm sure the initial crowd levels will fall off a bit over the coming months allowing a less stressful visit for most of us later in the year.

$5 Children's tickets at Sea World

Summer is the perfect time for reconnecting with family and friends and making memories that will last a lifetime. And now, the SeaWorld parks are rolling out an offer that comes at the perfect time for vacations and allows families the chance to make a real difference for wildlife conservation.

Now through December 31, with each full-paid, SeaWorld Orlando, San Diego or San Antonio single-day, adult admission purchased online, any child age 12 and under gets a $5.00 admission, all of which goes to fund non-profit organizations that are working right now on wildlife conservation projects. Families even can choose which wildlife conservation effort receives their donation.

Complete details are available at SeaWorldCares.com.

If anyone has some ride reviews of Manta please post and let us know what it's like.

The perfect place to play while staying at our beautiful vacation villa in Orlando Florida - http://www.floridaorlandovilla.com/

England 0 - 0 Algeria

England 0 - 0 Algeria

What can I say? Not a very happy birthday for Fabio Capello!

With only one group match left to go are we going to be able to up our game and get through to the next round or will it be more of the same? One thing's for sure we'll need to play better football than we did last night or we'll be on our way home.

World Cup News - England v Algeria

Bottom of the group table Algeria are playing in their first World Cup for 24 years so you'd have to think that England are odds on for a win tonight. I certainly hope so.

Big question for today? Who will play in goal? A change is inevitable surely!!

Here's hoping for a few goals (for England obviously) and a good win which will put us one step closer to the next round.

Big Day at Universal

© Universal Studios, All Rights Reserved

Grand Opening of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter takes places today at Island's of Adventure!!

Watch it live at http://www.universalorlando.com/harrypotternews/ - the opening takes place between 9am and 9.30am today Florida Time. Don't miss out - You can check the current time in Florida via the local info page on my website at http://www.floridaorlandovilla.com/Weather.aspx

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal

Tomorrow, 18th June, is the big day at Islands of Adventure.

Although a lucky few have already been inside the new Harry Potter land, tomorrow is the grand opening when everyone gains access. If, like many Potter fans, you've been following every leak, rumour and build photo for the last year or so then you'll be looking forward to the trip reports especially the details on the new coaster ride, The Forbidden Journey.

Here are a few highlights direct from Universal.

Hagrid's Hut


© Universal Studios, All Rights Reserved

The Beauxbaton Girls


© Universal Studios, All Rights Reserved

Hog's Head


© Universal Studios, All Rights Reserved

Hogsmeade at Night

© Universal Studios, All Rights Reserved

If you're not in Florida at the moment you don't have to miss out on the opening celebrations. Everyone can watch live updates at http://www.universalorlando.com/harrypotternews/ - the opening takes place between 9am and 9.30am Florida Time.

England v USA

So England have started their World Cup campaign and a very uninspiring start it was. A 1-1 draw against the USA - surely we were all expecting better than that!

I thought it was going to be an exciting match when we scored so early but found it rather disapointing and that goalkeeping error was more than disapointing.

Never mind, onwards we go. Hopefully, now we're started we'll pick our game up a bit and produce a convincing win against Algeria.

And remember, you can relax and enjoy the 2010 Football World Cup in comfort at the villa.


All the World Cup matches are being broadcast on ESPN/ESPN2 and ABC - all channels which are available on our Digital Cable service at the villa.

You will find ESPN on channel 33, ESPN2 on channel 34 and ABC on channel 10

www.floridaorlandovilla.com/WorldCup.aspx

How can we help you?

You may think that you need to give up the benefits of concierge service if you choose to stay in a vacation villa rather than a hotel but that doesn't have to be the case at all!

Through our professional management company we are now able to offer a fantastic range of guest services to our villa guests - these can be pre-arranged before you arrive at the villa or just give our management company a ring while you're there - they will do their best to accomodate your needs.

Guest services include:

Shopping - they can arrange for a welcome pack of groceries to be waiting for you at the villa for your arrival (choose from a selection of packages or specify your own list). They can also do a grocery shop for you while you're busy enjoying yourselves elsewhere or organise the purchase of specialist items or gifts.

Gifts and Flowers - Would you like a gift to be waiting for someone (or everyone) when you arrive at the villa or perhaps some fresh flowers or a bouquet? No problem at all.

Transportation - transport from the airport can be arranged - excursions by private jet, helicopter or limo for a special occasion or day trips.

Personal Chef - what a luxury! Have your own personal chef come to the villa and cook for you. They will do the shopping too.

Sports activities - need to book a golf tee time, water ski-ing lessons, air balloon flights, deep sea fishing - whatever you want to do just ask and my management company can arrange it for you.

Dinner Show Reservations - there are some great dinner shows in Orlando and we can arrange tickets to suit you

Professional massage - the ultimate luxury! A spa treatment which comes to you at the villa. Spoil yourself with a massage, scented wrap or reviving pedicure.

Mid-stay cleaning - keeping the villa clean is really easy (especially with no carpets to worry about) but if you don't want to spend even a few minutes of your vacation time tidying up then ask us about a mid-stay clean (or two).

If you are interested in any of these services (or there is something else you'd like arranged during your stay) then just let us know and we can put you in touch with a specialist at our management company who can give you a personal quote for whatever you need.

Staying in a vacation villa just got even better. All that space, your own private pool & spa and now concierge service as well. Nothing is too much trouble - just relax and enjoy!!

Why rent a vacation home rather than stay in a hotel?

So why would you rent a vacation home rather than stay in a hotel?

For me, the main reason is the private pool and spa - not having to wait until other people vacate the spa so that I can have my turn - you know how some groups just take over hotel spas. No having to rush out at 6am to put my towel on a lounger so I'll have somewhere to relax by the pool later on. In a vacation home, the pool, spa and deck are yours - to relax, to swim, to bbq, to read - whatever you want - always available, never crowded with strangers.

Another good reason for me is the space. We've done plenty of hotel room holidays and how awful is it when the kids have gone to bed and you have to tiptoe around the room watching the TV on low volume. In a vacation home, the kids can go to their own bedrooms and you still have all the facilities available to you. Enjoy a glass of wine or beer outside by the pool, a quiet meal for two or a bbq with the other adults in your group - just watch a film and put your feet up - or a quiet dip in the pool to unwind.

And, as a mother of teenagers I really appreciate having more than one bathroom and access to the full-size laundry facilities. We really travel light when we stay in a vacation home because let's face it we all have our favourites clothes to wear and it's so easy to just pop a load in the washer at night.

The boys like the games room and appreciate being able to watch a different channel on the TV in every room - no more fights over what's on TV. They like the fact that they have easy access to the golf course and community facilties too for tennis, basketball and the large communal pool for laps. Also the community is so friendly - Esprit is part residential, part vacation rental - and there are plenty of friendly locals (children and adults) who'll pass time chatting or give directions or suggestions.

Sometimes I hear people say that staying in a house rather than a hotel wouldn't be like a holiday! Those who think staying in a vacation home means lots of cooking and cleaning couldn't be more wrong. The home will be clean and ready for your arrival and it's so easy to keep that way - tiled floors mean no vacuuming. There is no need to cook if you don't want to as there are plenty of restaurants and take-aways within easy reach. If you don't want to cook, use the vacation home as a giant hotel room - order in or go out for meals.

But for those who do want to cook you have all the facilities you need - you can do anything in our fully-equipped kitchen from reheating last night's pizza to cooking a full Christmas Dinner - I know I've done it. This is the beauty of a vacation rental holiday - the choice is all yours.

Finally, I just have to mention value for money. You can stay in our 4 bedroom villa from £600 per week - that's a fully inclusive price which includes tax, cleaning fees and complimentary pool and spa heating - so nothing else to pay. With 8 people sharing that's only £75 per person per night - where can you get 4 hotel rooms with a large living area, full kitchen, games room and own spa bath for anything like that? - Let alone your own private pool! Even a value hotel would cost more than that - That's real value for money!

If I've persuaded you, check out http://www.floridaorlandovilla.com/ for details about my 4 bedroom villa.

Latest availability

We still have limited availabilty in June 2010 - the following dates are available at reduced rates - book now to avoid disapointment:

9th to 13th June 2010
17th to 20th June 2010
27th June to 3rd July 2010
16th to 21st July 2010

Hedge Watch

I'm pleased to report that our hedging on the right-hand side of the villa is now reaching a really good height and offers even more privacy for the villa. We are now not overlooked on any side of the pool area.

New Photos

I've just finished loading lots of fresh new photos of the villa onto our website. I think the new front shot captures the fresh new paintwork at the villa particularly well and also shows that our lawn has stood up to the hot Florida weather very well so far.

The new bedlinen in the master bedroom looks really good - and our wonderful management company have made some lovely swans out of towels for decoration. We've also changed the bedspreads in the front twin bedroom and I think they navy and white looks quite sophisticated and I'm really pleased with the new look. There's also new gold covers for the double bedroom which are quite luxurious and feel lovely. Overall, I'm very pleased with the changes we've made with the bedlinens and it's all part of keeping the villa updated and in great condition.

Did you see our advert in the Daily Mail?

The villa was advertised in the Daily Mail last Saturday so let us know if you noticed it. Hoping for a good response.

Cheap flights to Orlando for Summer 2010

Cheap flights seem to be in short supply these days but ebookers have a good deal for the summer at £441.55 from Birmingham via Amsterday with KLM/Marinair so there are deals out there if you don't mind flying indirect.

US Airways also have some good deals via Philadelphia at the moment throughout the summer and autumn - best prices seem to be via their website direct.

Best deal for direct flights seems to be Virgin with flights in June from £527.50 from LGW.

We get so many requests to have the pool & spa heated, even in the summer months, that we've decided to make it easier and include it free of charge in our normal rates. Now our Florida villa is even better value.

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The World Cup is approaching!!

Want to watch the World Cup in luxury? Between matches would you like to cool off wth a dip in the pool or celebrate a win with a round of golf?

Or do you want something else to entertain you while other family members watch the football? How about a shopping trip to one of Florida's fantastic malls?

Our villa is equipped with enhanced digital cable TV which means you can catch every match of the World Cup on our state of the art 37" LCD screen in the lounge. And if the kids still want to watch cartoons that's not a problem either as every bedroom has individually controlled cable TV so you can watch a different channel in every room if you want to.

And in between matches, you've got all the entertainment Orlando has to offer right on your doorstep. We're only 5 miles from Walt Disney World and just  few minutes from the I4 for access to Universal Studios and Sea World.

Make the most of your World Cup experience and enjoy it in Orlando, Florida. We still have availability for June 2010 so get in touch now to secure your dream vacation.

Free Day at Sea World Parks for Stranded Passengers

Airline passengers stuck in Florida due to the Volcanic eruption in Iceland can take advantage of a generous offer by Sea World - one day free at each of their parks - Sea World, Aquatica and Busch Gardens.

This is a fantastic offer which allows British and Continental visitors and Flight Crews to make the most of their extra days in the Orlando area.

Full details on their website at http://www.seaworld.com/orlando/default.aspx
Details as follows:

The offer is valid starting Saturday, April 17, 2010 at SeaWorld Orlando, Aquatica waterpark and Busch Gardens Tampa.


Stranded tourists must present to the parks' front gate Guest Services window a valid return airline ticket from Wednesday, April 14, 2010 through Wednesday, April 21, 2010 or until normal flight schedules resume.

One ticket will be offered at each park for each return flight ticket presented. Children under age 3 are free.

Further information is available by calling 1-888-800-5447.

Stranded travelers must present airline ticket or original airline itinerary and photo ID.

The free admission offer has also been extended to all airline crews affected by the travel interruption through April 21. Official airline ID must be presented at Guest Services to qualify

Travel disruption due to Volcano in Iceland

The Icelandic volcano eruption is causing chaos to air travellers as flights are grounded for yet another day.

If you are in Florida and cannot get home try to make the most of the extended vacation time. If your current accommodation is no longer available then the villa is available from 30th April and can take guests for any length of stay.

If you are still in the UK and so having to reschedule your accommodation for next month then we have plenty of availability in the villa for May so can accommodate last minute bookings.

Email Angela on ang@floridaorlandovilla.com to discuss and make your new arrangements.

Fifa World Cup to show live on US TV

FIFA World Cup 2010 TV

The United States gets World Cup Fever!

All the World Cup matches are being broadcast on ESPN/ESPN2 and ABC

Continental Discontinue Bristol to Newark Flights

What a shame - another regional flight route to the US comes to an end!

Continental airways are stopping their schedule flights from Bristol to Newark from 7th November 2010. Anyone who has already booked flights for after that dates can ask for their money back or transfer to another route.

This was a handy regional route to Orlando via Newark and means that the regional options are getting harder to find. There are still options to fly from Manchester and Birmingham with various airlines though for those who find London airports inconvenient.

Weather in Orlando

It's a lovely sunny day in Orlando today - a maximum of 86 F or 30C - a perfect day for relaxing by the pool or heading over to one of the water parks.

This is one of the great things about staying at the villa with its own pool and spa. The kids can splash about while you relax on the extended sun deck with the latest blockbuster. There's always a cold beer or chilled soda in the large fridge so no need to move too far - unless you want to of course.

How about a round of golf - the 9 hole executive course runs right through Esprit and offers very reasonable rates. Or head on over to the tennis and basketball courts - located right next to the community pool.

For those looking for a bit more actions, the villa is within easy reach of all the attractions. On a hot day like today the water parks are a big attraction. Choose from two Disney water parks - Blizzard Beach with its Winter Sports theme has some great slides - Typhoon Lagoon has a shipwrecked theme and features a great tidal wave pool. The new Aquatica water park - located up near Sea World - is a great new addition and has some fabulous slides - you can even slide through the dolphin pool. Finally, that old favourite, Wet 'n Wild - packed full of slides and activities for all the family.

Whatever your preference, you'll find it here in Orlando, Florida.

World Cup Football - South Africa 2010

Worried about missing the World Cup while you're on holiday in Florida - no need! Relax and enjoy the 2010 Football World Cup in comfort at the villa.


All the World Cup matches are being broadcast on ESPN/ESPN2 and ABC - all channels which are available on our Digital Cable service at the villa.

Enjoy great TV viewing on our large 37" LCD TV

Love Sport?

Love Sport?


You'll love our Digital Cable Package

It includes live Soccer coverage from the Barclays Premier League, Scottish Premier League, UEFA Champions and Europa Leagues

Live coverage of the Italian, German and Dutch Football leagues
Live basketball from the NBA, and NHL Hocky and Australian Football League

Sky Sports News - broadcast daily on the Fox Soccer Channel - a hour-long news program from Sky Sports in England which offers extensive coverage of the Barclays Premier League and other European leagues, Sky Sports News also features coverage from a uniquely British perspective.

Checkout the channel lineup:

ESPN - channel 33
ESPN2 - channel 34
ABC - channel 10
Fox Soccer Channel - channel 728
ESPN Classic - channel 726
Fox College Sports - channels 723/724/725