by Adele Woodyard
Now Easter’s over, snow birds are leaving and we begin thinking of our vacation time fun. Not exactly our usual fare, but here’s some high end ideas for a start. In Florida that means what’s new at the theme parks in May and June. For more info, dates, prices and Florida resident discounts: http://www.visitorlando.com
It’s a Turtle Trek at Seaworld Orlando where you can follow the underwater journey of a sea turtle in a brand new 3D, 360-degree dome theatre. Outside, two natural habitats hold over a dozen real-life sea turtles, hundreds of freshwater fish and 1500 saltwater fish (but no dropping a line in the water).
Universal Islands of Adventure has upped the thrill by enhancing the Amazing Adventures of Spiderman with new animation and 4K high-definition visuals A new daily parade of larger-than-life floats, characters and hundreds of street performers add to the fun.
The Magic Kingdom Fantasyland at Walt Disney World Resort is doubling in size and Phase I is now open. A new Storybook Circus offers Dueling Dumbo, a Great Goofy coaster and inter-active games; kids will delight in making like sorcerers to help battle an army of Disney Villains.
Legoland Florida opens a waterpark on May 26, 2012. Besides wave pools and waterslides, one with a 60 foot drop, for excitement, you can “build a raft” and float down a lazy river. Toddlers have not been forgotten—they can get wet on a DUPLO Slash Safari. 877-350-5346. http://www.legoland.com
Families with kids old enough for mare daring adventure will find it at Forever Florida Eco-Safari. The Rattlesnake, a first in the country zipline roller coaster, is one of six new exciting rides in this rough-hewn park a few miles southeast of Kissimmee. Part of Eco Park admission. 321-766-4803; 888-658-5662. http://www.floridaecosafaris.com
Especially for Golfers:
Monday, May 7: Charity Golf Classic at the Old Memorial Golf Club, Tampa opens with a 10:30 a.m. check-in and lunch 12 noon shot gun start.. Event includes contests, ;live auction, raffles, awards dinner and banquet, Contact Lowry Park Zoo, 813-935-8552 x 235.
Now through 6/30/12: Ritz Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes offers a one-two round golf package, Greg Norman Signature Course, and luxury accommodations From $269. 800-576-5760, Code GOF.
Need to improve your game? Black Diamond Ranch golf xommunity, Lecanto has a partnership with John Jacobs Golf Schools and Acadamies for two and three day instructional programs. 800-328-8099. http://www.blackdiamondranch.com
Plan and Save on a Florida vacation: Buy Florida “Freebies” and “Cheapies” 250 Daytrips for Little or No Money http://www.adelesbooksandblogs.com
Vacation Fun Florida Weblog 