Yorkshire County Fish Shop at Walt Disney World Resort

Heading to Disney World? Looking for a great place to grab some lunch while visiting the Disney World Resort? If so, we personally recommend the Yorkshire County Fish Shop. You'll find the restaurant located in the United Kingdom pavilion at Epcot World. Please note that in-park dining requires a park reservation and valid admission on the same date. 

The restaurant serves British and American cuisine. They offer the best fish and chips in the area. At least in our honest opinion and their prices are very affordable. Their lunch and dinner menu is $14.99 and under per adult. You can order regular beverages or a draft beer.

If this isn't your type of cuisine you can visit other stops at the World Showcase like China, Canada, Mexico, Norway, France, Morocco, Italy, etc. Visiting the Disney World Resort is a lot of fun (and that's what their known for), but it's also a foodies paradise! Something for everyone! 

We discovered the Yorkshire County Fish Shop on our first trip to Disney World several years ago. Every time we visit Disney we always make sure we stop in to grab fish and chips while we're there. It's something we look forward to on every trip.

Kennedy Space Center JFK Wall Water Fountain in Florida

How many of you have ever visited the Kennedy Space Center in Florida? If you have never visited, you really need to add it to your bucket list. The center has been NASA's primary launch center of human spaceflight since 1968. The late 1960's was big time for human space travel and it often dominated the headlines.

They invite visitors to watch rocket launches from the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex which offers the closest public viewing areas. If you visit their website and/or follow them on social media, you can find out when the next launch will be and plan your visit around it.

Right out front of the main entrance into the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex you'll find the beautiful granite wall and water fountain that features JFK (President Kennedy) and the wall states the following text:

"For the eyes of the world now look into space, to the moon and to the planets beyond, and we have vowed that we shall not see it governed by a hostile flag of conquest, but by a banner of freedom and peace." Quote by John F. Kennedy

Since we're big fans of street art and outdoor wall murals, I wanted to document the JFK Kennedy Space Center Wall here on our blog for all of our readers to see. It's quite large in size and I really enjoyed standing in front of it and watching the water fountain do its thing. You can double click on our photo to have it open up in an enlarged size to see all of the beautiful details.

Valiant Air Command Warbird Museum in Florida

The Valiant Air Command Warbird Museum is located at the Space Coast Regional Airport in Titusville, Florida and is open 7 days a week (closed major holidays). Admission ranges from $5.00 for children up to $20.00 for adults. The museum shows off various aircraft collections, offers aircraft restoration, displays a memorabilia collection and hosts air shows throughout the year. If you're looking to save money on the admission price, you'll find a printable $2.00 off adult admission ticket coupon on their website.

When you visit their museum you'll learn very quickly that their mission is to honor the past, preserve our heritage and educate the future. The museum was founded in 1977 and currently has a collection of 45+ historic warbirds.

While walking around the air museum you'll have the chance to see the C-47 Tico Belle, TBM Avenger, A-4 Skyhawk, the F-86 Sabre and many more! You can get up close and personal with many of these historic warbirds and they make great backdrops for your family pictures.

They have an extensive memorabilia collection containing genuine uniforms, equipment, weapons, artillery, photographs and artifacts from the beginning of military aviation. I was really impressed with all of the items that they had on display and I learned a lot about them as we wondered around the museum.

If you're looking to visit, I recommend that you go to their website and check out their calendar of current events. They keep that updated with upcoming air shows, fly-in breakfast events, etc. I also recommend that you go over to Facebook and like their page where they update it almost daily with museum events and news.

The Official Florida State Facts and Travel Tips

Florida is one of the states that you have to visit at least once in your lifetime. It's a melting pot of different cultures from all around the world and appeals to a variety of different age groups. The young adults love the state for it's diverse culture, the middle-aged adults love to work & raise their families there and then you have the seniors who flock to Florida for retirement.

The Official Florida State Facts and Travel Tips

- Florida is the 4th most populous state in America with Jacksonville as the most populous city in the entire state.

- Has the largest coastline in the contiguous United States, consisting of 1,350 miles. To the east you'll find the Atlantic Ocean, to the south you'll find the Florida Straits and to the west you'll find the Gulf of Mexico.

- Agriculture, tourism, banking and transportation are the driving force behind their economy. When it comes to agriculture, Florida is known for cattle farming, growing sugarcane, citrus orchards (oranges, lemons, limes and grapefruits) and tomatoes.

Nickname: The Sunshine State
Capital City: Tallahassee
Animal: Florida Panther
Fish: Largemouth Bass
Bird: Northern Mockingbird
Mammal: Manatee & Porpoise
Reptile: Alligator
Flower: Orange Blossom
Seashell: Horse Conch
Wildflower: Tickseed
Tree: Sabal Pine
Fruit: Orange
Juice: Orange Juice
Pie: Key Lime Pie
Largest Lake: Okeechobee

Largest Cities: Orlando, Miami, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale, Tallahassee, Jacksonville, Saint Petersburg, Port St. Lucie and Pembroke Pines.

Border States: Georgia and Alabama

Famous Amusement Parks: Walt Disney World Resort, SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa and Universal Orlando Resort. Orlando attracts more amusement park visitors than any other area in the country.

Port of Miami: is the largest cruise ship & passenger port in the world and one of the largest cargo ports in the U.S.A. They boast that they're the "Cruise Capital of the World". Over 4 million passengers/people pass through the Port of Miami every year and that number continues to grow.

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens at Delray Beach is the only museum in the United States dedicated exclusively to the living culture of Japan. You can read our review on the museum & gardens here on the blog.

We enjoy visiting beautiful botanical gardens and if that's something you enjoy doing, we highly recommend the Fairchild Botanical Gardens in Coral Gables. When we visit the Coral Gables area, it's always a must-see and must-do on our travel list. You can read our review on the botanical gardens right here on the blog. Beautiful place to visit!

Family Fun at the Legoland Florida Resort

Planning a family vacation to Florida? Do you plan on visiting Disney while you're there? If so, don't forget to add a visit to the Legoland Florida Resort too! Legoland is approximately a 45 minute drive from the popular tourist attractions in Orlando. Matter of fact, if you're staying in Orlando, you can find shuttles that are available to take you to Legoland, so you don't even have to drive!

Legoland is a 150-acre theme park that is 100% geared towards kid's and their families. At the park you'll find over 50+ amusement rides, fun attractions, entertaining shows, restaurants, a super-fun water park, botanical gardens and more! There is something for everyone to see and do at Legoland!

The theme park is broken down into several different lands for you to explore. You can find a map right on their website and I suggest you print it out and come up with a game plan before you head to the park. Make notes on the must-see and do activities and do those specific ones first. Then you can fill out the rest of your visit with other things within the park to-do.

When it comes to the different "lands" to explore, some of our favorites were:

Land of Adventure
Lego Kingdoms
Legoland Water Park
NinJago World
Heartlake City
Cypress Gardens
Pirate's Cove
and several others!

When it comes to the admission price, yes...Legoland is a tad on the pricey side, but there are a lot of things for you to do while visiting there. When planning your visit, you do want to plan to arrive there early in the morning and stay all day long, that way you get your money's worth when it comes to the admission fee. You can save a few dollars by purchasing your admission tickets online and buy them before you plan on visiting.

When it comes to shows and entertainment, you'll find 3 main entertainment venues: Friends to the Rescue Live Stage Show, the Wells Fargo 4D Theater and the Pirates' Cove Live Water Ski Show. If you plan on catching one of the shows, you'll want to check out their website for scheduled times and/or inquire about show times as soon as you enter the park.

My family had a lot of fun visiting the Legoland Florida Resort and the next time we're down in Florida on a family vacation, we'll be visiting the park again. You can find out more information about the park by visiting the company's website online.

Note: All photographs are clickable. Double click on each one to have it automatically open up in a new browsing window and in an enlarged size. We're a mobile reader-friendly travel blog. Thanks!

5 Reasons to Visit the EOD Memorial Wall

How many of you have ever visited the EOD (Explosive Ordinance Wall) at Elgin Air Force Base in the Florida panhandle? How many of you even knew it existed? I can personally tell you that I never heard of it before, but now that I have...it's on my must-see list the next time we visit the great state of Florida.

Today, I'm sharing a travel guest post with all of you about the EOD Memorial Wall.

Many people are not familiar with who Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technicians are or what they do in our military. Yet the more people learn about them, the more they become interested in learning more about the work they do, getting involved in supporting them, and rallying behind this important and worthy cause. Many others are surprised to learn that there is an EOD Memorial Wall, honoring fallen EOD technicians, available for the public to visit.

“The EOD Memorial Wall is a beautiful structure that features the names of over 300 fallen EOD warriors and it’s open to the public,” explains Nicole Motsek, executive director of the EOD Warrior Foundation. “We encourage people to visit the EOD memorial, and learn all they can about EOD technicians and the lifesaving work they do.”

Here are 5 reasons to visit the EOD Memorial Wall:

1. To learn. The memorial is a great place for people to learn about the EOD warriors who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

2. To teach. It’s a great place to take kids, so they can learn about the sacrifices the men and women in our military make, and see the wall in person.

3. Honor fallen. Visiting the wall and seeing the names of all the EOD warriors who have died in the line of duty is a great way to honor them and pay tribute.

4. See donations at work. The wall was built and is maintained by donations that people and businesses in the community make. Seeing it in person gives people a chance to see their donations put to good use.

5. To heal. Those who know an EOD warrior who has died, often finds comfort and healing by a visit to the EOD Memorial.

“Seeing the memorial wall is a meaningful experience for many people, especially those who knows a warrior named on the Wall,” added Motsek. “We are honored to be a part of caring for this important and beautiful memorial. The Wall is there for the community, EOD technicians, their families, and all who want to pay tribute. We remember!”

The EOD Memorial Wall is located at the Eglin Air Force Base in the Florida panhandle. The Memorial Wall was built in 1969 and contains the names of fallen EOD warriors. The wall is on a military base that is secure, but it is open to the public. Weekday times are 5:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with holiday and weekend hours being noon until 4:00 p.m. If you are planning a trip to the area and would like to visit outside of normal hours, please contact them and they will do everything possible to accommodate a visit to the Wall. For those who cannot visit the memorial in person, there is a virtual wall with names, bios and photos of the fallen EOD warriors on the EOD Warrior Foundation website.

The EOD Warrior Foundation is a nonprofit organization that helps military EOD personnel and their families. There are around 7,000 EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) technicians in the Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force, performing the most dangerous job in the military, as they disarm explosive devices on the battlefields and at home. Many EOD personnel come home with debilitating injuries, including lost limbs, blindness, paralysis, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), burns, and the invisible wounds of war, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

About EOD Warrior Foundation:  The EOD Warrior Foundation is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life for the EOD family by providing emergency financial relief, scholarship opportunities, physical, social, and emotional support. Specific programs include emergency financial support, education, hope and wellness retreats and events, and care of the EOD Memorial located at Eglin AFB, Fla. for wounded EOD warriors and their families, and families of Fallen EOD warriors, including both active duty and veteran EOD warriors. To learn more about the EOD Warrior Foundation, or see their fundraising events calendar, visit their site at: www.eodwarriorfoundation.org.

Disney's Main Street Electrical Parade

If you are planning a visit to Walt Disney World in Florida you will want to set aside some time one evening and check out the Disney's Main Street Electrical Parade. To see it...you will need a valid park admission, no exceptions.

The nighttime parade shows off numerous floats that are all lit up in dazzling colored lights. These floats move along main street along with several of the Disney characters and dancers. It's great fun and entertainment for the entire family to enjoy.

To find the best places to see the electrical parade and to map out the entire parade route you will want to visit Disney World online. The three main viewing areas are: Central Plaza, Frontierland and Town Square in the Magic Kingdom Park. You will want to allow 20 to 25 minutes to see all of the floats as they pass by.

This is an outdoor event so the schedule can change depending on the weather. If attending, make sure you dress appropriately for the current weather conditions. Updates to the viewing schedule are made on the website and posted on the Times Guide at the Magic Kingdom Park.

Some of the floats you will see:

Alice in Wonderland, Pinocchio, Cinderella, Pete’s Dragon Elliott, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Mickey Mouse and many more!!! There really is a nice variety of the Disney characters that are represented in the Electrical Parade!

While the park is fabulous to visit during the daytime hours...it really comes to "life" at night when you see everything lit up and all of the beautiful twinkling lights! When visiting the Magic Kingdom, you definitely want to add this to your "must-see" list!

Beautiful Miami Beach Hotel Rooms at the Hilton Bentley

Jumping the velvet rope in a Miami Beach nightclub is one thing – viewing Miami Beach from the luxurious penthouse of the Hilton-Bentley South Beach is another.

Many travelers vacation south for the winter to Miami Beach, home to numerous bars, lounges, hottest venues and vibrant night clubs, but many of the best luxurious are a bit more secluded than those decked out with neon signs. The Hilton-Bentley penthouse is definitely one of Miami Beach’s best-kept secrets; yet, it is located in the center of it all.

A spiral staircase leads you to one of the most secluded gems on Miami Beach. The one of a kind panoramic view is by far one of the best features of the Penthouse Presidential Suite in the Hilton Bentley. Sink into the view in the private pool and whirl pool tub located on the rooftop. With panoramic ocean view throughout the entire dual-leveled presidential suite the luxury doesn’t stop at the terrace – the 3,500 square-foot space centered by Miami Beach’s hottest venues offers the ultimate South Beach experience.

Coveted by the most well-known celebrities, politicians, and athletes, each of the 2 king bedroom suites features marble bathrooms with whirlpool tubs, walk-in closets and private oceanfront terraces. A full kitchen, dining and living room, along with an extra half bath, will be having you calling this luxurious suite “home” as soon as picking up your room key from the Hilton’s courteous and attentive staff.

The oceanfront presidential suite makes the perfect start and finish to a weekend getaway. Whether the suite, located right above the beach, is the fulcrum of your vacation or just a place to rest after a day full of the activities Miami has to offer – the presidential suite offers an opportunity you do not want to miss.

You can learn more about the Hilton Bentley in Miami Beach by visiting their site online.

The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club in Florida

How many of you will be taking a trip to Southwest Florida this summer? If you have never been to that area...I highly suggest you visit at least once in your lifetime! It's a gorgeous area and there are always a ton of activities going on. In other words, always something to see and do!

The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club In Southwest Florida is Offering 3rd Night Free This Summer!!! That's right, get your 3rd night free!

The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club features an incredible setting on the pristine white-sand beaches of the Gulf of Mexico, the 125-acre resort is Southwest Florida’s only beachfront resort with a championship golf course, a world-class spa, and an award-winning tennis center, all on-site.

Making it even more appealing, the resort spent more than $45 million in impressive renovations and enhancements over the last few years, which included the renovation of its 319 guest rooms and suites, the expansion and renovation of its popular The Sunset Beach Bar & Grill, and the addition (in 2010) of a beautiful new beachfront pool complex with two pools, two whirlpools, and a pool bar with food service.

Want more reason to visit? The resort is offering the 3rd night free from May 21st – September 30th, 2015, based on availability, with holiday weekends excluded. For holiday weekends (Memorial Day, 4th of July, and Labor Day), the resort is offering the 4th night free instead. For more information or for reservations, call (800) 237-7600 or (239) 261-2222 and ask for the “3rd Night Free Promotion,” or visit www.NaplesBeachHotel.com , specifically naplesbeachhotel.com/3rd-night-free (or http://tinyurl.com/pv8p7dy ). Blackout dates may apply, and the promotion may not be combined with any other offer. Also, the promotion is not applicable to groups.

Rich in hospitality and tradition, The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club has resided in Naples since 1946. Owned and operated by the Watkins family for three generations, the resort features: 1,000 feet of soft white-sand beach; the 18-hole, par-72 championship golf course; the world-class spa; a fitness center (with complimentary admission for guests); the Mary C. Watkins Tennis Center with six Har-Tru courts; Beach Kids Club, a complimentary daily recreational program for children ages five to 12; an Orchid House, home to over 3,000 tropical plants; retail shops; and beach rentals.

The resort also features multiple restaurants and lounges. This includes: the signature beachfront restaurant HB’s on the Gulf; Broadwell’s, providing panoramic views of the golf course; and the Seminole Store, which serves deli sandwiches, ice cream, gourmet coffees and a variety of freshly baked pizza, pastries and desserts in a café atmosphere. The Sunset Beach Bar & Grill has been recognized as the “Best Place To View A Southwest Florida Sunset,” and was named “Naples’ Best Beach Bar” by Travel Channel.

Situated just blocks from Naples’ renowned shopping districts of fashionable 5th Avenue South and historic 3rd Street South, the resort is also within minutes of shopping at Venetian Village, Waterside Shops, Bayfront and Tin City. Guests can also experience the area by taking tours of the Everglades, Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, Corkscrew Swamp, The Botanical Gardens, or the Conservancy Nature Center. Boat and fishing trips also can be arranged at the hotel. Other leisure time activities can include Naples’ outstanding museums, theatres, and art galleries.

Providing a comfortable, friendly atmosphere, the resort is an exceptional tropical getaway. Resort guests benefit from no resort fees, and complimentary self and valet parking. The resort is located at 851 Gulf Shore Blvd. North in Naples, Florida. Contact the resort at (800) 237-7600 or (239) 261-2222, and visit www.NaplesBeachHotel.com .

7 Downtown Disney Resort Area Hotels In The Walt Disney World Resort In Florida

DoubleTree Suites by Hilton

Seven Downtown Disney® Resort Area Hotels In The Walt Disney World® Resort In Florida Offering Enticing “Escape From The Cold” Rates!!!

Looking for a cure for the winter blues? You should consider taking advantage of the special “Escape From The Cold” rates that are being offered by the seven Downtown Disney® Resort Area Hotels in Central Florida. Available February 1-March 31, 2015, the special rates are a great way to escape to the Sunshine State, experience such special events as the Epcot® International Flower & Garden Festival, and to take in the many new offerings in the Walt Disney World® Resort including the recently expanded New Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom® Park. In addition to the hotels having an ideal location with an easy walk to more than 75 themed and immersive shopping, dining and entertainment venues at the Downtown Disney® area, these seven Official Walt Disney World® Hotels also provide complimentary shuttle transportation every 30 minutes to all four Walt Disney World® Theme Parks, two Water Parks, and to the Downtown Disney® area. As a bonus, guests at these hotels also receive the “Downtown Disney Deals” booklet that features exclusive discounts and specials from over 30 merchants on Downtown Disney® area dining, entertainment and shopping.

Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista

The Downtown Disney® Resort Area Hotels’ “Escape From The Cold” rates are:

· B Resort & Spa – rates from $149 per room, per night
· Best Western Lake Buena Vista Resort Hotel – rates from $89 per room, per night
· Buena Vista Palace Hotel & Spa – rates from $93 per room, per night
· DoubleTree Suites by Hilton – rates from $159 per suite, per night
· Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista – rates from $89 per room, per night
· Holiday Inn Orlando – Lake Buena Vista – rates from $99 per room, per night
· Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Resort – rates from $97 per room, per night.

Among the many coupons featured in the “Downtown Disney Deals” booklet are discounts at Rainforest Café®, T-Rex CaféTM, Wolfgang Puck® Express, Steve Baker Caricatures, The LEGO® Store, Planet Hollywood®, House of Blues® Restaurant, La NoubaTM by Cirque du Soleil®, Splitsville Luxury LanesTM, Bongo’s Cuban CaféTM, and Ghirardelli® Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop.

Taking advantage of the special rates also will enable you to enjoy such other benefits of staying at one of the seven Downtown Disney® Resort Area Hotels as:

· Disney tickets available to purchase at each hotel
· Advance tee times and discounts at all Walt Disney World® golf courses
· Disney Merchandise store located in each hotel
· The ability to book advance dining and dinner show reservations for all restaurants across the Walt Disney World® Resort.

Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Resort

For more information on the “Escape From The Cold” rates or to make a reservation, visit DowntownDisneyHotels.com , specifically downtowndisneyhotels.com/escape-the-cold (or bit.ly/1yEMnc7 ). Rates are based on availability and some blackout dates may apply. The rates do not include the Resort Services Fee or daily parking fee (if applicable), taxes or gratuities. The offer is not valid with any other special offers, promotions, existing reservations, or for groups.

Special events at the Walt Disney World® Resort include:
· The Walt Disney World Pro Soccer Classic – February 1-March 1, 2015 at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex
· 22nd Epcot® International Flower & Garden Festival – March 4-May 17, 2015 at Epcot®
· Garden Rocks Concert Series – select nights from March 6-May 17, 2015 at Epcot®
· Atlanta Braves Spring Training – March 4-April 4, 2015 at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

In addition you also could take in such new offerings in the Walt Disney World® Resort as New Fantasyland, which is the largest expansion in the history of Magic Kingdom® Park. It offers more immersive enchantment and interactive experiences, and features two new themed areas: Enchanted Forest and Storybook Circus. Enchanted Forest attractions and experiences include Under The Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid; Be Our Guest Restaurant; Enchanted Tales with Belle; Ariel’s Grotto; Gaston’s Tavern; and the crowning jewel of New Fantasyland Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. Storybook Circus attractions include: The Barnstormer featuring the Great Goofini; Dumbo The Flying Elephant®; Casey Jr Splash ‘N’ Soak Station; Pete’s Silly Sideshow; and Fantasyland Station.

Other new offerings in the Walt Disney World® Resort include: the new Move It! Shake It! Dance & Play It! Street Party at Magic Kingdom® Park, with new music, new characters, and more audience interaction; a new Canadian Lumberjack Show at the Canada pavilion at Epcot®; For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration at Disney’s Hollywood Studios®; the display of the original golden coach from Disney’s new live-action feature “Cinderella,” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios® (from February 1-April 11, 2015); the opening of Exposition Park at Downtown Disney® West Side, the permanent home of four Disney-owned food trucks; and the opening in November 2014 of a new five-level parking garage with 4,000 spaces at the Downtown Disney® area.

What’s more, in 2015 the Downtown Disney® area will evolve in to Disney Springs® – adding new shopping, dining and entertainment venues for your enjoyment. This one-of-a-kind destination will overflow with sights, sounds and flavors that come together in a beautiful outdoor environment with a charming waterfront setting. An experience only made possible by the imagination of Disney, this vibrant destination will offer a mix of unique (non-Disney) retail, distinct Disney shopping and incomparable dining offerings. Set amid beautiful open-air promenades and meandering springs, Disney Springs will double the number of shopping, dining and entertainment venues, and will be complete in 2016.

Buena Vista Palace Hotel & Spa

Additionally, guests purchasing tickets to the Walt Disney World® Theme Parks in advance are now able to reserve access to some of your favorite Walt Disney World® experiences before you even leave home, with the Disney FastPass+ service – at no extra charge. With valid park admission and online registration, you will be able to choose from more than double the previous number of experiences and skip the standby queue at the attractions that you selected in advance, and – for the first time ever – Fastpass+ service includes select Character Greetings, shows, parades and fireworks. You also have the ability to make changes anytime so that you can lock-in some of your must-do attractions and entertainment experiences, and relax and enjoy the moment with your family.

“The weather is absolutely beautiful, and the special events at the Walt Disney World® Resort are outstanding, which makes it a wonderful time to visit,” said Doug Smith, chairperson of the Downtown Disney Resort Area Hotels’ marketing committee.

Downtown Disney® Resort Area Hotels is a consortium of seven Official Walt Disney World® Hotels that includes: the stylish B Resort & Spa, opened in June 2014 with 394 newly renovated guest rooms and suites, the full-service B Indulged® by AVEDA Spa, and American Q signature restaurant; the 18-story, 325-room Best Western Lake Buena Vista Resort Hotel, overlooking Lake Buena Vista and the Walt Disney World® Resort, and offering two restaurants, lounge, and wireless internet; Buena Vista Palace Hotel & Spa, offering 1,014 guest rooms and suites, three pools, tennis, basketball and sand volleyball courts, five restaurants/lounges and a full-service spa; the luxurious and spacious 229-suite Doubletree Suites by Hilton, the only all-suite resort hotel in the Downtown Disney® Resort Area; Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista, walking distance to Downtown Disney® and the only Downtown Disney® Area Resort offering Extended Theme Park Hours; the Holiday Inn Orlando – Lake Buena Vista, the only Holiday Inn located in the Walt Disney World® Resort Area and featuring elegant rooms with modern Florida décor; and Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Resort, featuring 626 guest rooms (which each feature a refrigerator), the Oasis Aquatic Playground with two pools and interactive water features, and six dining options.

With nearly 30 food and beverage outlets and restaurants, more than 3,600 rooms and an array of amenities, the Downtown Disney® Resort Area Hotels offer a rate, space and menu to please every guest. Located in the heart of the Downtown Disney® area, these properties are within walking distance of exceptional shopping, dining and entertainment venues. For reservations, or more information, visit DowntownDisneyHotels.com .

Gale South Beach's Packages for the Fall Season

It is hard to believe but Summer is slipping by and Fall is quickly approaching. With that said, hubby and I love taking vacations in the Fall before Winter sets in and traps us indoors for months. When we take vacations during the Fall season, we like to head South and hit up the great state of Florida.

For those of you who are heading to Florida and the South Beach and/or Miami Beach area...check out these fabulous Fall package deals from Gale South Beach!

Situated on lively Collins Avenue, Gale South Beach is located in the epicenter of Miami Beach. Menin Hospitality's $35 million restoration of the historic hotel in 2012 transformed the property into a state-of-the-art, Riviera-inspired luxury boutique hotel. The hotel features a gym, 5,000 sq. ft. rooftop bar and pool deck, Dolce Italian Restaurant and café, Regent Cocktail Club and subterranean night club, Rec Room.

With the "FALL Back into Summer" package at Gale South Beach (rate code "scat") guests will receive:

Luxury accommodations
Complimentary valet parking
15% off lunch at Dolce Italian (onsite)
2 drinks at the renowned Regent Cocktail Club
*a resort fee of $25.00 per day for 2 people is collected upon check in. the fee includes a $15 credit toward any Gale South Beach food & beverage outlet, high speed WiFi and two lounge chairs at Beach Club.

Or, guests can take advantage of the upcoming holiday and book the "Keep Calm and Shop on" package:

Luxury accommodations
Welcome in-room chilled Prosecco
Bottled Water (4) in your room daily
An exclusive Miami Beach VIP card that offers discounts to the shops and restaurant along Lincoln Road (one block from the hotel)
Complimentary Gale South Beach tote bag
15% off your lunch at Dolce Italian restaurant
Late check-out (by 2 pm)

Enhancement: After shopping all day, treat yourself to a foot massage at Club Essential Spa. You can book this enhancement at a special discounted rate upon purchase of this package.

*a resort fee of $25.00 per day for 2 people is collected upon check in. the fee includes a $15 credit toward any Gale South Beach food & beverage outlet, high speed WiFi and two lounge chairs at Beach Club.

* Rates start at 279.00 usd* per night.

Disclosure: Information and photos are copyright Gale South Beach and are provided as a courtesy to the Pennsylvania & Beyond Travel Blog Readers.

Smithsonian Channel: Aerial America Southeast Collection DVD

Several weeks ago I had the chance to review a Smithsonian Channel travel DVD and today I am back with another one. We love to travel and traveling through the Southeast is one of our favorite travel destinations. It is a really beautiful are of the country.

Title: Aerial America: Southeast Collection
By: Smithsonian Channel
Release Date: August 19th, 2014

Take off for a first-class, window-seat view of the South's most-beautiful sceneries in this brand new DVD release from Inception Media Group.

Aerial America: Southeast Collection takes you soaring over the South's breathtaking landscapes and landmarks while exploring its compelling, complex role in American History.

In North Carolina, witness the barrier islands and learn about first in flight history. In South Carolina you can experience elegant charms and extraordinary past and in Georgia's hot cities and haunted graves. Flights over Mississippi and Alabama reveal where Civil War battles were lost and the civil rights movement was born. Florida shows off its stunning beaches, lavish lifestyles and what makes the state so magical.

My Thoughts: If you plan on visiting any of the Southeast states for the first time, this DVD is a must-have! You will learn about hot spots and spots off the beaten path that you never heard of before. Not only that, some of the areas they feature on the DVD will give you new travel destinations to check out, ones that you would of never considered visiting until you saw them on this DVD.

We are planning a big 2 week trip to North Carolina next spring so we really appreciated the North Carolina part of the DVD. The photography is just amazing from start to finish and we were amazed at all of the aerial views that we got to see.

Several times we have watched this collection and every time we watch it again we see something new or learn something new about each state that is featured. Thanks to this DVD...we are adding a trip to the great state of Alabama to our travel bucket list in 2015. We have never been there and thanks to this DVD...we will definitely be visiting!

Disclaimer: A free copy of this DVD was provided to me for this review. No monetary compensation has been received. My thoughts & opinions on this item are 100% my own and are unbiased. Your opinions & views may differ.

Summer Getaway - Hilton Bentley on South Beach in Miami

There is something magical about visiting the beautiful state of Florida and I am not talking about visiting Mickey Mouse at Disney World. Personally, been there, done that. What I am talking about is visiting all of the beautiful coastal areas that Florida has to offer...one of them being South Beach in Miami!

I wanted to bring to your attention the newest addition to South Beach for the summer. The Hilton Bentley on South Beach introduces newly renovated 3000 sq. ft. It's fine luxury at it's best!!!

This two story 2/3, two master bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms, makes any stay as classy and upscale as South Beach gets. A full stainless steel kitchen, with personal wine chiller, elegant dining room, living room with 60 inch retractable LED television, and marble bathrooms, accentuate the refined interior.

Two private terraces, a rooftop heated jacuzzi and a pool deck provide all the breathtaking views one could imagine. No matter where you occupy your 3000 sq. ft., you can hear the Dolby surround sound system, while controlling it and everything else in your suite from your iPhone or iPad. With rates ranging from $2,500-$7500, this Hilton Bentley suite is worthy of occupancy any time of year.

If you are looking to vacation in the lap of luxury with all modern conveniences and breath-taking views in South Beach...the Hilton Bentley South Beach - Miami is the place to be! You can check out their web site for additional information, amenities and availability.

4 Excellent Disney World Restaurants in Florida

When it comes to planning a day out in Disneyland, the park's restaurants may not be the first places that come to mind. They are, however, well worth a visit and they have plenty to offer when it comes to themed dining experiences. This article takes a look at a few of the best to give you an idea of all that's on offer.

The Be Our Guest Restaurant

We start with one of Walt Disney World's newest additions, the excellent Be Our Guest Restaurant. The restaurant seats guests in the very heart of the Beast's Castle, located in the recently opened New Fantasyland expansion, and offers up one of the park's most entertaining dining experiences. There's plenty to choose from on the menu but dining here is about more than the delicious food; visitors are also treated to a visual feast with the restaurant ranking highly for its special effects and interactive entertainment.

The Garden Grill

The Garden Grill is located in the popular Epcot Future World and is an excellent choice for lunch or dinner. It might not have the Disney character laden environment of some of the park's other restaurants, but it more than makes up for it in futuristic fun. The Garden Grill slowly rotates during your meal, offering up ever changing views of the surrounding park, and the menu has a wide range of meals to choose from, some of which are sourced from the greenhouses in Epcot.

The Whispering Canyon Cafe

If you're a fan of the "Old West" and dining outdoors, then you should head for the Whispering Canyon Cafe. This impressive restaurant is open to the air and offers up views into the expansive lobby of the Wilderness Lodge. The cafe has an "Old West" atmosphere, with great design touches, and the service here is a real hoot. It's also a great choice if you want to tuck into some great American favourites, with a menu which offers plenty of choice.

The Sci-Fi Dine-In Theatre

When it comes to classic dining experiences in Walt Disney World, the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theatre has to be one of the best. This excellent restaurant is themed around a traditional 'drive in movie' experience, with guests seated at tables designed to look like classic 1950s cars. As you would expect, dinner here comes complete with a screenings of sci-fi B-movies and its menu is packed full of similarly themed food.

Most Booked Summer Destinations

I love to travel and my favorite time of the year to travel happens to be Summertime! When hubby and I travel, we like to take road trips most of the time...but from time to time...we will board a flight. Years ago we did some traveling overseas but these days...we are more content to travel domestically and spend our money in our own economy. With that said, I thought I would share this article with all of you who like to travel abroad.

Most Booked Summer Destinations for 2013

The year-over-year data illustrates that while domestic airfare is on the rise, round-trip tickets to cosmopolitan cities including London and Paris, the beaches of San Juan and Cancun, and the culture of Rome, are being offered for under $1,000, making this season an ideal time to take an inspirational trip abroad.

No need to worry about a tight budget, because CheapOair is maximizing its customers’ travel experiences by offering exclusive vacation deals to the most popular summer destinations around the world.

Boston, Massachusetts to Cancun, Mexico

Cancun has become well-known for its beautiful beaches and magnificent resorts, and at the Barcelo Costa Cancun guests can step out of the hotel onto one of Cancun’s most spectacular beaches to enjoy some fun in the sun. When looking to break away from this all-inclusive resort, guests can travel just a few minutes to the city and enjoy the vibrant night life while exploring Mexico’s most popular destination.

CheapOair is offering vacation deals from Boston to Cancun starting at $875 per person. The package includes roundtrip airfare and a 3 night/4 day stay at the Barcelo Costa Cancun.

*Sample hotel rate listed for travel from August 2 to August 5, 2013 and is based on availability; additional dates and locations available. Taxes and service fees included. Sample airfare is listed from Boston to Cancun.

Chicago, Illinois to San Juan, Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico’s beautiful scenery is a perfect reason to escape to this top destination this summer. At the Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino, guests can enjoy a swim in the resort’s infinity pool overlooking the ocean. When looking to escape the sun’s rays, take a break in the hotel’s popular casino with over 500 slots and 16 table games.


CheapOair is offering vacation deals from Chicago to San Juan starting at $1,065 per person. The package includes roundtrip airfare and a 7 night/8 day stay at the Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino.


*Sample hotel rate listed for travel from July 29 to August 5, 2013 and is based on availability; additional dates and locations available. Taxes and service fees included. Sample airfare is listed from New York to Chicago.

Orlando, Florida to Rome, Italy

Whether joining an audience with the Pope outside of the Vatican, throwing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, or enjoying all of the gelato you can get your hands on, the Pineta Palace hotel in Rome offers guests a list of endless possibilities of things to do when visiting one of the greatest cities in Italy.


CheapOair is offering vacation deals from Orlando to Rome starting at $1,998 per person. The package includes roundtrip airfare and a 4 night/5 day stay at the Pineta Palace.


*Sample hotel rate listed for travel from August 1 to August 5, 2013 and is based on availability; additional dates and locations available. Taxes and service fees included. Sample airfare is listed from Orlando to Rome.

Los Angeles, California to London, U.K.

Whether hopping on the London Eye where you can oversee the entire city, touring the Tower of London or walking like the Beatles along Abbey Road, London is the perfect place to soak up some culture. Located conveniently next to the nearest Tube (underground subway) stop, the Copthorne Tara Hotel London Kensington is located near Central London which has some of the world’s best retail shopping and unique markets.


CheapOair is offering vacation deals from Los Angeles to London starting at $2,075 per person. The package includes roundtrip airfare and a 7 night/8 day stay at the Copthorne Tara Hotel London Kensington.

*Sample hotel rate listed for travel from July 29 to August 5, 2013 and is based on availability; additional dates and locations available. Taxes and service fees included. Sample airfare is listed from Los Angeles to London.

New York, New York to Paris, France

The Pullman Paris Montparnasse is situated near the Montparnasse Tower from where guests can enjoy a romantic view of Paris and the Eiffel Tower. When looking to take a break from exploring historical monuments, the hotel is just minutes away from an array of shops, bistros, small theatres, cabarets and bars.

CheapOair is offering vacation deals from New York to Paris starting at $2,116 per person. The package includes roundtrip airfare and a 7 night/8 day stay at the Pullman Paris Montparnasse.

*Sample hotel rate listed for travel from July 29 to August 5, 2013 and is based on availability; additional dates and locations available. Taxes and service fees included. Sample airfare is listed from New York to France. For reservations, visit http://www.cheapoair.com/vacations/special-packages/exclusive-vacation-packages.html

Fares are round trip, Fares include all fuel surcharges, our service fees and taxes. Displayed fares are historical fares were last found on July 15, 2013 at 8:00 AM and are subject to availability. There is no guarantee that the fares will be available at the time of your search.