A frosty hello from me this week!
To those in the UK, it’s certainly been a cold one this week… I’m sure we all know where we would rather be right now. I would rather have a icy day in the parks than here, get us to that Florida sunshine! With highs of 28 in Orlando today, it’s a stark difference to the minus temperatures we are feeling!
Over the coming weeks… I am taking the opportunity to fill you in on some of my favourite parks, with my must see bits, favourite snacks, and tips to make the most of your day!
This week I am kicking off with SeaWorld – whilst I know this isn’t always everyone’s “go to” due to the publicity SeaWorld have received over the years I am here to restore some feel good details! With protection and care at the heart of everything SeaWorld does, you will never get an up-close experience like it. I’ll be sure to put it on your visit list this year.
SeaWorld is a firm family favourite with something to do for those of all ages, and as always there are definitely some amazing coasters for the thrill seekers of your party! With the vast array of animal exhibits and exciting shows I am sure you will have an unreal day. I love the facts they incorporate in to the shows, it’s huge learning opportunities and appreciation of the hard work that goes in to them does not go unnoticed.
Dive in to the animal encounters…
One of the best has to be Dolphin Cove! Immerse yourself above and below the water and watch the bottlenose dolphins play and fly through the water. A firm family favourite, you can’t forget to visit the Dolphin Nursery to catch sight of the calves!
The Manta Aquarium is next on my list, the 360 aquarium will have you feeling like you are in there with the rays! See the bonnethead sharks upclose – Here you will find out about SeaWorld’s commitment to working with researchers supporting aquaculture.
My all time favourite… Pacific Point Reserve. If you are all about the laughs, these guys will not dissapoint! California sea lions and harbour seals call this place home. Did you know… you can get the opportunity to feed them while you are there, toss your fish and watch them gather!
Wondering what rides await you?…
Pipeline is coming and we have been shouting about it for what feels like FOREVER! But… we seriously can’t wait!
IceBreaker is the newest that you can ride, featuring FOUR airtime filled launches going both forwards and backwards, the steepest beyond vertical drop in Florida! 93 feet tall at a 100 degree angle – only for the bravest thrill seekers!
Kraken, an oldie but a goldie turns 23 years old this year! Dangle your feet in the open sided seats for a mammoth ride! I’m recomending front seats for this one – believe me it’s worth the wait! It’s everyones favourite floorless roller coaster.
I’m a sucker for a water ride, and infinity falls holds the key to this one! Face your rafting adventure around the tropical ruins, take on the rapids before you hit the tallest drop taking the plunge down to the whitewater. It’s a soaker so be sure to pack a change of clothes or jump in the family size dryers!
For the kids, if they are staying wet… jump over to the Rubber Duckie Water Works found in Sesame Street Land – Let them burn off some steam with Ernie for some super splashy fun on this water playground!
Foodie’s unite!
Whilst it is a known fact that SeaWorld does not let you bring in outside food or drinks in to the parks other than refillable water bottles they know how to keep you fed during your day!
Our highly recommended best option is to pre purchase the all day dining plan! This gives you the chance to grab and go at quick food stations with a meal and drink available every 90 minutes throughout your day. You are free to have as many as you like! So for those who get extra peckish, save yourself some money by purchasing in advance.
FREE BEER!!! Sorry, but who doesn’t love a thirst quencher in the Florida heat, for a limited time through til the end of January grab a free beer from Waterway Grill!
Get your guac on at the Flamecraft bar, nachos piled high with chilli, cheese, pico de gallo and get your fire on with some jalapenos!
A finishing topic from me, SeaWorld made a commitment for the greater good… “Today, we cared for an injured animal. Today, we taught a child about the world around them. Today, we celebrated life, in all of its magnificent and powerful forms. Tomorrow we’ll do the same.”
Over the years, over 30,000 distressed animals have been helped by SeaWorld through it’s rescue program. This comes from SeaWorld and it hits home right where it needs to…Standing at the glass, on a safari truck, in the water, within an exhibit, surrounded by animals, it happens. Something profound, unexpected, and utterly and totally life affirming – you enter the world of a species not your own. You suddenly have new eyes. Or maybe you don’t. Maybe, this time, this moment, is not yours. Instead, maybe its your son’s or your daughter’s. Maybe its your Mom’s or Dad’s. Maybe its your sister’s or brother’s, your friend’s, or maybe its someone’s moment of connection which you just happen to be lucky enough to witness. Whether it is you, someone dear, or someone you don’t really know, you know that their life is forever changed. As absurd as that may sound – that a moment at a park could change your life – if you’ve been there, at the glass, on a safari truck, in the water, within an exhibit, surrounded by animals, you know it happens. A connection – extraordinary, precious, and real – given without expectation by an animal; an animal who – with a single shared moment – opens your eyes to a bigger world. This is a world in which your voice, your choices, your passion truly matter. This is a world to which you are connected.
That’s it from me, as always… drop me a line with any questions or recommendations! I love to hear about your experiences!
Join me next week where I am showing you what’s good at Universal!
Thanks,
Louise 😊