Your Florida Friend

The Best Time to Go to Magic Kingdom

2008-07-21T11:50:00.007-04:00

In this month of July, the brilliant minds at Disney World have kept the park open up until midnight every Tuesday. Check their calendar. This is great!

Imagine...driving to the parking lot. No parking fee. Drive right up to the front and get a spot so close that you don't even need the tram to get to the transportation center!

Once the monorail is bringing you closer to the lit up castle in the distance, you start to get goosebumps. The mood at night is truly spectacular. The lights are glimmering. The breeze is cool. There isn't a rushing to get it all done among the crowd. You might think that the "cast members" are tired and grump, but only Grumpy is grumpy. The whole atmosphere is magical.

Then, there are the lines...or the lack of lines. I don't arrive until after 9:00 pm, yet I walk up and onto all the rides I want.

Last Tuesday, we came just before the fireworks at 10:00 pm. I don't waste my time sitting around Mainstreet to watch them burst over the castle. You can view them from all over the park as you're walking to the next ride.

We rode Aladdin, Pirates, then Small World, Peter Pan (that was the only wait of 23 minutes), Snow White, Winnie-the-Pooh, saw the great 3-D movie PhilharMagic, Dumbo, Tea Cups, and Roadway within those two hours. That was ten rides! Amazing! With only one wait line!

One thing to remember is not to look in ANY shops on Mainstreet when you arrive. That area stays open after the other areas have closed. Keep moving through it to the ride you most want to see.

What about cranky kids? OK, you have calculate it out right. Nap late; around 3:00 or 4:00 in the afternoon. Wake up and eat dinner then go around 9:00. Don't go earlier than that. Two hours at the park is plenty. Remember, if you get there too early, you'll be fighting the larger crowds that are in the park until 10:00. It's only after the fireworks that it starts to clear out.

And while I've said that the fireworks aren't anything to hang out for, I would highly recommend SpectroMagic. This light parade is great. The weird thing is that it loses its magic if you are standing too close. You actually want to be a few steps back from the street, which works out well, with all of the die-hard Disney-ites plunking down on the curbs in anticipation. Truly, you enjoy Disney best when you don't try to wring happiness out of the experience.

Magic Kingdom! Ahhhh...I'm in love all over again!

Staying Cool in Florida's Weather

2008-07-07T21:59:00.014-04:00

I think I suffered from heat exhaustion on Saturday while at Universal Studios. It was a great day, but it was hot.

There are two times to enjoy Florida's theme parks: the morning and the evening.

Really, if you arrive at the parks right at opening, then you are guaranteed a breezy beginning. Most tourists are tired out from the day before and can't get up and get going to take advantage of this time.

The other time is after 7:00 pm. The sun is going down and the air is starting to cool. Walking around becomes refreshing instead of depressing.

How can you take advantage of both times? Take a siesta, as they do in most hot weather climes. The only way you can do that is to stay close enough to the parks so that driving isn't an issue. So, you would eat breakfast, go to the park, eat a snack (that you brought in), have a drink (in addition to the water bottle you brought), leave around 1:30/2:00, be back resting by 3:00, get up in a couple of hours, have dinner and leave for the park around 6:00. This way you avoid the energy-zapping hottest hours of the day.

Even if you try to avoid the highest heat, you should be prepared for sweating. Of course you need deodorant, but you also can try some baby powder. Sprinkle baby powder any place that gets irritated: under bra line, waist line, upper thighs, etc.

Wear light clothes. I mean this both ways: don't wear dark colors (which do absorb so much heat) and wear fabric that is airy and allows your skin to breathe. This outfit is a good example and comes from http://www.coldwatercreek.com/ :

How can you chose the right fabrics to wear? Breathable means natural like cotton and linen. The worst fabric choices would be rayon or polyester.

Then, think to yourself which garments you own dry easily. You know that cotton knit ribbed T-shirt? The one is so heavy when wet and takes forever to dry? That shirt is the wrong choice. While it is short-sleeved, it isn't going to keep you cool. Choose something that is so light weight it is almost dry after the spin cycle.

For pants, everyone and their cousin wants to wear jeans in America, but it truly isn't the best choice for Florida's unforgiving heat. I was wearing mine on Saturday, and I think it contributed to the problem of getting overheated. It's better to wear thinner pants or shorts.

I would not recommend dressing skimpy, however. Covering your skin loosely with natural fabrics, even long sleeves and long pants has the benefit of protecting from the ultra-violet rays.

Whatever you don't cover with clothing, you really have to cover with suntan lotion. Be sure to get nose and cheeks, tops of ears, neckline (where your shirt moves around a lot), shoulders, forearms, tops of legs (from sitting down in the sun), and finally tops of feet (where sandals don't cover).

Do have sunglasses and a hat or be prepared for a headache. If you can't get little ones to wear a hat, see if they will put up with a tied bandanna.

Bandannas, by the way, are the best thing to pop in a diaper bag. They can be a hat, a bib, a washcloth, a handkerchief, and even (in a sad, sad, moment) a diaper.

OK, what if you end up suffering from heat exhaustion like I did? If you find yourself dazed and confused and sweating bullets, the best thing to do is to get into the bathroom. Go for the handicap accessible bathroom, shut the door and cool down at the sink. Splash water on your face, neck, arms. Stand there until you start to feel better.

When you leave the bathroom, go straight for a sports drink. Pay the $3.00 for a Powerade. Drink it inside some air-conditioning. Stay there a good 15 minutes. Sip it little by little, as it will get absorbed better than if you gulp it. Even when you feel better, you should leave the park. You'll need to rest and keep hydrating yourself.

Obviously, no one likes to spend a small fortune to enter a park and then leave early. That's why I'm giving you so much advice on how to avoid that situation. However, if you or someone in your family does need to get some relief from the heat, it's better to leave sooner than later. Be careful with your heath while touring. Nothing ruins a holiday faster than feeling badly and when it's Florida, then the sun can be the quick culprit.

EPCOT Field Trip

2008-06-08T09:54:00.012-04:00

Teaching school in Orlando has its advantages; especially when chosing where to go for a field trip. Middle schoolers might beg to go to Universal Studios, but will settle for EPCOT. You can arrange field trips through Disney, but if you are a true teacher, you can create your own.

The focus on the field trip was to be, "World Literature." A week before the trip, I assigned a paper for each of my ten students. There are ten foreign countries, in addition to America. For more students, a teacher could assign countries to groups.

Here is what they had to research on the internet:

Name of Country:

How much is a plane ticket from Orlando to your country? How much travel time is necessary?

Name three things (sights, food, music, clothing, etc.) that your country is famous for:

What is the predominant language of your country?

Write down a phrase and its meaning, from that language, which you can learn how to say and share with all of us:

Name a famous writer from your country and then find a quote from one of their books:

Name a famous poet from your country and include a short excerpt from one of their poems:

Name a famous playwright from your country and include a line from one of their plays:

The students had to turn in the assignment AND receive a passing grade for it, in order to go on the field trip. For those who did a lack luster job, they had to revise their answers and hand it in again.

We arrived at school at 8:00, and left school at 8:30, thus arriving at the park at 9:00. Though our goal was to go around the World Showcases, those don't open until 11:00, so we had two hours to see some other attractions.

I insisted we start with Spaceship Earth. The problem with that was the kids' excitement level was sky high, and they weren't very quiet on the ride. I fixed that with a cell phone call.

What I had done was get everyone to bring their cell phone and I had their numbers programmed into mine. All their names were entered with the letter "Z" before their name so it was easy to scroll quickly.

Even though the boys were loud in the car ahead of me, while going through ancient Greece, I could call the biggest offender and tell him to can it.

Afterward, I talked with the group. I reminded them to be quiet enough on the rides. I also "quizzed" them on which era throughout history they most wish they could visit.

From there, we headed to Test Track, which was the class favorite.

If I had to do it again, I should have run over to Soarin', which always has incrementally long wait lines with each minute. It's more mellow than the zooming action of Test Track and a better lead up.

They begged me for Mission Space, but I denied that. There are two levels of the ride and on the more intense level, two people with heart problems have died. I am not one for taking unnecessary risks with other people's children.

We did go through Journey into Imagination, for which is never a wait line, but we did that after Test Track, and it wasn't a good enough finish for our time before World Showcase portion. So, in a 20/20 hindsight moment, I should have done Soarin', Journey into Imagination, Test Track, and then Spaceship Earth before the 11:00 opening of the pavillions.

With all the walking around, we headed over to one of the best kept secrets of EPCOT: Club Cool.

This is behind the smallest circular founation by the Character meeting point. It is sponsored by Coke, but the free (FREE!) samples of soda pop are global and perfect for our field trip's focus. You get to fill Dixie cups with as much ice-cold sugary goodness as you desire and it's fun to compare notes. Oh, and we all hated the pop, "Beverly," from Italy.

Then, we headed over to Mexico.

Most people go through the showcases starting with Canada, so it's best to go the opposite way. It's good to start with a country that has a ride, as well, as Mexico does. After hearing the speech, and while waiting for our "Gran Fiesta" boat ride, kids had to tell me one Spanish word in order to go on board.

Part of the money collected for the trip was a $100 fund for us to buy a $10 food sample at every country. That $10 got paid to the person who gave the speech (and that is something I kept a secret until we were there), who then had to make the food choice for everyone. In Mexico, for example, we bought four long churros, at $2.50 each, and divided them into thirds, which was plenty.

The moment of buying the food gives the kids a chance to actually interact with the people from the country and to try out some language and ask some questions. It was a great reinforcer to everything we had just done.

After Mexico, there is Norway.

The best place for the speech was inside the church replica. I always tried to find a quiet air-conditioned building, or at least a spot of shade. We then went on the Maelstrom ride and viewed the movie on Norway. We visited the enormous troll in the gift shop (which you have to exit through anyway) and bought cookies.

In China, we heard our talk in the large circular building.

It was right before hearing some music and seeing the clay soldiers. We would have stayed to see the movie on China, but I decided against when it was a 12 minute wait. You really have to have stay fluid and keep it going. We bought ginger ice cream, which most of the kids didn't like, but I loved.

In Germany, there really isn't very much to see or do. We heard the speech in the candy store and bought candy to share. The worker dispelled the "Guten Dag" and "Aufwierdersen" notions by telling us that every younger person in Germany says, "Hi," and "Bye." We did walk through the store and talk about toys, beer, cuckoo clocks and soccer

Italy was next and maybe the biggest disappointment. We had missed the street performers and there was nothing to see or do. After the speech, we couldn't even buy food there. There was only one sit-down restaurant which was too expensive. I understand that a pizza place is coming (duh! what were they thinking not to put one in before now?) but all we could buy was a bag of crackers in the wine shop, and we declined. Also, two of the Italian workers decided to hug and kiss behind the counter of the shop, much to the embarrassment of our group. We didn't buy any food there, but used the money from Italy towards our food in America.

In America, we did hear the Revoluntionary War bugle corps play some songs. We didn't see the American Experience Show. We needed to sit in air-conditioning and went inside to the eating area, after buying two turkey legs to share. They were about $6.25.

We moved on to Japan.

Japan had a storyteller, which was only ok. We missed the drummers (this photo is from a previous trip), which I find more interesting. We heard the speech in the garden area, under a tree. The money was kept in order to buy a drink in the next country.

Morroco was next.

I love this pavillion. It is the only country which has actual buildings and not simply facades. We looked into the cutural museum and heard the speech right next to it, in the center courtyard. We looked into the fancy restaurant, but got our slushie drinks in the fast-serve restaurant.

Each student had to find someone else who could share one of the flavors with them: tangerine, strawberry, or pina colada. I loved the tangerine. The slushies at expensive at $6, but do-able at half that.

France had a mime/juggler, of whose act we only saw a bit. The speech was given by the fountain, which was a poor choice, as it was too loud there. Not sure where a better spot would have been. We were tired by now, so we didn't even try to buy a thing. Oh, well.

The U.K. was next. We saw Mary Poppins. The speech was given in the courtyard. We AGAIN didn't buy anything, but thought about fish and chips. In hind

Canada was the last country and we were wiped. We asked if we could go inside one of the shops to give the speech, as it was so hot. We opted out of the movie. And for the third time, my perfect plan to spend our money in each country was abandoned (we'll use the money in an end of the year party).

And then it was time to GO! There was not one kid with energy left. You know what they say EPCOT stands for; Every Person Comes Out Tired. I hear everyone went to bed early. One boy didn't come to school the next day, and I think he had gotten dehydrated from not bringing a water bottle (as you can led a child to water, but you can't make them drink).

All in all, I do think it was a success. This could be duplicated for another class, or even for a family that wants to get the most educational experience they can from EPCOT.

Medieval Times in Kissimmee

2008-05-25T08:16:00.013-04:00

Wondering what actually happens inside the castle on 192?

Wonder no more!

This is good family entertainment. Kids will love it and parents will enjoy the evening.

Having said that, while this review is positive overall, let me now tell you some of the negatives.

The ticketing process at the beginning is tediously long. One problem with being a Disney visitor is that you get spoiled by their proficiency. When you go anywhere else, you become more impatient at inefficiency.

Prices, by the way, are steep. $60 gets you in the door as an adult. Check the website for special deals as they offer $10 off on occasion. Kids 12 and under pay $35, but again check for deals as they can offer a free child with paying adult.

This was right before the 8:00 pm start time. I had missed the earlier show at 6:00 pm. The audience for that show was just filing out and it was lots of happy, energized people. Happiest of all seemed to be little boys with wooden swords.

Where did they get those swords? Well, that's what I was going to find out.

The large holding room for those waiting to be allowed admittance was really a big, noisy market for a captive crowd. So, this is the big negative that, while it didn't ruin the experience, did diminish it. The tiled room with wooden ceiling just reverberates with every vocalization which is particularly annoying for small children, who are more sensitive.

My advice is to avoid going in right away. Stay outside and visit the village.

I've already written at some length about The Medieval Village . It is often overlooked by the patrons of the dinner show entertainment. I think this might be because the village is more high-brow than most of the visitors seem to need.

If you do chose to enter in the castle and wait, then head into the Wine Cellar which is more quiet. You can find cushy booths, the bathrooms, and a water fountain.

What about drinks? A small non-alcoholic slushy, found at any 7-11 for a buck, is $5.00. 'Tis the royal rip-off, me lads! I mean, I expect to pay more at one of this tourist venues, but there's a moment when you just can't stomach the absurdity.

Now, remember, this is all my initial moments, waiting until the real evening's entertainment starts. It was unpleasant and even confusing, as I wondered about the yellow cards Iwas holding in my hand. The ticketing agent didn't really explain the process. I had to ask a bartender. He said that we would be called in by colors soon.

The whole audience is divided into colored sections which correspond to a knight's crest. The tournament takes on an element of a wrestling show, as you cheer and boo fake fighting in a tournament.

Finally, upon the trumpet's blare were we ushered in. That is when we could settle in and the fun began.

The script of the show is more or less superfluous; meaning, you really don't care what's being said.

It mostly sounds like:

blah blah blah My Lord blah blah blah sword blah blah blah steed blah blah blah

It doesn't really matter. The great part of the show is watching some fights and some horse show tricks. There's even a falcon in flight! Visually, the show is really good, so if you can't understand the Medieval mumbo-jumbo, it's alright.

There are a number of videos on youtube that show you exactly what goes on.

The food? Remember, this is a dinner show.

To start, no water is given, unless you request. Your choices are Pepsi or beer.

There is then the choice for a meaty meal:

Garlic Bread

Tomato Bisque Soup

Roasted Chicken

Pork Spare Rib

Herb-Basted Potato

Pastry

Beverages

or a vegetarian meal:

Tomato Bisque Soup

Garlic Bread

Large Portobello Mushroom Cap Stuffed with Whole Grain, Rice and Bean Blend

Large Skewer of Roasted Vegetables

Hummus with Pita Chips

Pastry

Beverages

That is a half a chicken sitting on your plate and no vegetables. If I had to do it over again, I would order one meaty meal and one vegetarian and then split them both between the two of us.

And if you're a low-sodium eater, good luck! Everything is chockful of salt. The saltiest food being the soup (I diluted it with some of the water I had requested) and then coming in second, the garlic toast (that slice isn't really bread any more).

The chicken was delicious. Absolutely no complaints on the succulent meat which fell off the bone.

If you don't eat pork, you should request a side of hummus and chips. Very tasty!

The pastry is an apple struddel stick.

Did I mention no silverware? For some that's an anomaly, but I found it refreshing and fun. Why not?

You will not leave hungry or dissatisfied from Medieval Times. Even if the beginning of the evening was a bit of a muddle, the total experience was worth recommending as a unique entertainment you will truly remember.

Medieval Times Map

Driving in Florida

2008-05-20T22:28:00.000-04:00

Driving in Florida is a pleasure. I have battled snow and ice in the American Heartland, roundabouts in London, and Cairo's traffic jams. Truly, to be behind the wheel in Orlando is like another ride to enjoy.

There are some things to keep in mind:

"Click it or ticket." You must wear a seat belt at all times under Florida law.

Children age 3 years and younger must be in a child safety seat.

Florida is wet. If you head out early, you'll usually find condensation on windows. It's best to have the glass clear before moving out of your parking space. Spending many days or weeks in Florida? Purchase an inexpensive squeegee and place it in the glove compartment for those misty mornings.

You'll then have to turn the air to hot and hit the defrost button (making sure that the air indicator is showing the straight arrow for fresh air, as opposed to re-circulating air). The windows should clear soon.

For rain, if you are using your wipers, then you must also turn on your low beams.

When it rains, you have to be careful on the road, as oil builds up and makes the asphalt extremely slippery.

Have a stack of quarters at the ready to pay for tolls. While not every road necessitates coinage, you have to be prepared. If you have exact change, it's better, as you can go through a lane and throw the coins out the window. Usually, you are going to need between 75 cents to $1.50. Coming from the airport, this is a guarantee, whichever road you take. Wondering which other roads have tolls? Here is the link.

Turning right on red is allowed, unless posted.

Thieves target drivers so ...

Keep your doors locked while driving.

While driving, if you are bumped from behind or flashed by headlights, or see someone who indicates he or she needs help, do not stop. Drive to the nearest, well-lighted public area and call 911.

Sometimes men will be approaching cars at the intersection while you are at a traffic light. They might have a hard luck story or outright asking for money. Do not roll down your window to talk with them.

While getting gas at the station, make sure to remove your keys. Car thieves in Florida have actually jumped in and driven off while you are standing right there with the hose!

If you are placing bags or packages in the trunk, do so before you drive off for your next destination. This is especially true at tourist spots where thieves are actually watching the parking lots.

Always take your parking ticket with you. Leaving it in the car allows a thief to exit the parking lot.

Lastly, it's best to be prepared by knowing where you are going first. Getting lost on the road can ruin a vacation with frustration and delays. It can even be dangerous as you stop concentrating on your driving to try to figure out where you are. Also, some parts of town are better to find yourself in than others.

Go to www.mapquest.com or http://maps.google.com to plot out where you're going and get the most out of your Florida vacation.

Best Drinks in Florida

2008-05-06T22:26:00.006-04:00

Florida is warming up, which means I'm usually in search of a good drink after work.

Now, don't get me wrong. I'm fun-loving enough without alcohol. I abstain from the stuff. You can find wine and beer at most restaurants and grocery stores.

I'm talking about the real pleasure in life: a cool down with a tall glass.

Here are my Florida favorites, thus far:

Dairy Queen's Limon-Lime Mr. Misty Freeze

Flavored ice with soft-serve whipped up into the true meaning of refreshment. Ask for it, even if you don't see it on the menu.

Dairy Queen Map

Pollo Tropical's Pina Colada Creme Smoothie $2.99

Sure, you could cut calories and order it without the creme for 50 cents less, but it doesn't taste the same. This concoction is all of nature's best flavors in one glass.

Pollo Tropical Map

A&W's Orange Freeze

I love the flavor of a dreamscicle; it's orange sherbet and vanilla ice cream perfectly blended. If you want nostalgia, drive up and wait for the "car-hop" to come take your order. For me, I'd rather do drive-thru.

A&W Map

7-11's Slurpee

Wow! What a surprise to find so many flavors! It used to be just Coke and Wild Cherry! Now, there's been a taste explosion at the Slurpee machine! You can find tangerine and pina colada along with the usual suspects. It's the best deal for a crowd. Buy a couple of huge cups and satisfy your family for cheap.

7-11 Map

Wyler's Italian Ice found at Walgreen's and CVS

This is not your old icee. They really DO taste like Italian ice! These plastic tubes of flavoring come in Orange Creme, Watermelon-Kiwi, Raspberry, Lemon and Lime. You have to freeze them, then seperate them. Best part? You get eight for a dollar. CHEAP-O! And only 60 calories with NO FAT!

Walgreen's Map

CVS Map

Downtown Orlando and Lake Eola

2008-05-04T14:51:00.020-04:00

There is absolutely no reason to stay in an Orlando hotel, unless you're there on a convention.

Did you know that you're actually closer to Walt Disney World when you're staying in Kissimmee than in downtown Orlando?

Disney World isn't located in Orlando or Kissimmee, but in Lake Buena Vista .

So, while you do fly into Orlando, you should head west to the sights.

You never really feel that you're crossing city boundaries as you travel the roads and highways. What you do feel is that some places are more conducive to a vacation than others.

Downtown Orlando is simply not a good place to stay.

However, it is a good place to visit, especially on Sundays.

There used to be an entertainment complex, located downtown Orlando, called Church Street Station, but it went under. A plan to revitalize the area is in the works.

Located under the bridges, near the complex, were booths and vendors every Sunday, but they recently re-located.

The new location for Sunday's street fair is at Lake Eola.

This spot is truly the best that downtown Orlando has to offer:

You get the beautiful scenery.

There's the well-equipped playground.

If you visit the street fair, you can purchase yummy food and drinks, such as English meat pies, Jamaican curries, and Turkish baklava.

A passable folk singer strums his guitar in the center courtyard.

There's a ritzy-looking restauranat named Spice

which I didn't investigate further (although, I did stop later at Panera --not pictured--on the Southern end of Lake Eola for some iced chai)

Then, there are the swan boats,

which can be rented for $12 an hour.

You'll be surprised at how physically taxing it is to peddle those buggers. Before heading out, set your cell phone alarm for 15 minutes. Get out a ways, then just sit and enjoy the calm. Once your alarm goes off, then start heading back.

Should you put Lake Eola on your trip itenerary?

If you have time on your hands, you like hanging out with locals, and enjoy real life moments, then by all means, go to Lake Eola on a Sunday.

Lake Eola Map

Las Vegas Buffet

2008-04-06T18:04:00.009-04:00

Pay your respects to The Las Vegas Buffet.

Don't get me wrong: it's not worthy of any respect.

I mean...it's not long for this world.

It can't be.

This prime location on 192 (next to The Wizard) and a great name are the only pulls.

Once in, you see the truth.

The restaurant is empty.

The buffet is only a third full and with poor-quality food.

The wait staff is so bad, that we were never asked nor given re-fills. When I did ask for something, the server returned after much time and gave it to the table next to us instead. Make no mistake, there were only about four other tables containing customers at the time.

That table next to us? Well, the husband was about ready to fill his plate with salad, when the wife came back from the bathroom in a huff.

"This place is filthy! We are not eating here! We are going!"

And they did.

Was it the loose toilet seat left unsecured in the bathroom that did it?

I'm not sure--couldn't ask her as she departed.

Why did we stay? Sometimes, you're just too hungry to get up and leave, but that doesn't mean we'll be back.

Las Vegas Buffet Map

Islam in Orlando

2008-04-04T18:50:00.003-04:00

You see that? Look closer...

That building is proof that Islam is the fastest growing religion in America. Right off of Apopka-Vineland in Buena Vista, you'll see Masjid Jama. It's only one of many mosques (Spanish word) or masjids (Arabic word) where Muslims worship in the Orlando area.

The Friday sermon, or khotba is given weekly at Masjid Jama starting at 1:30 p.m. While you don't have to be Muslim to attend, you do have to dress appropriately. Women must cover their hair with a scarf, and cover everything else with clothing; showing only hands. Men must not wear shorts above the knee.

Sadly, another thing that happens on a regular basis is that Muslims on vacation in Orlando fall ill or die. The Imam, or religious leader of the masjid, is in charge of ministering to them and their families. What's so difficult for Muslims, it seems, is that they must be burried right away--wherever they die. Can you imagine accompanying your family on a dream trip to Disney only to bury a beloved?

On a happier note, directly across from the masjid is The Muslim Academy of Greater Orlando. This school opened in September, 2007.

Masjid Jama Map

Spill-Proof for Traveling with Young Children

2008-03-31T21:57:00.010-04:00

In Florida, you really need to keep your little ones hydrated. While you can think that you'll be out and about and always be near a store or restaurant, you won't be. You'll be in line waiting for rides, or you'll be stuck in traffic when they need a drink.

For me, one of the biggest challenges is finding a drink container that is truly spill-proof. I was really tired of finding all the bag's contents wet from what was supposed to be sealed.

And then also, I didn't want anything too big in my toddler's hands. He isn't able to manage anything too large without me and becoming self-sufficient is key.

The solution?

Tummy Tickler

This is actually a container of 100% fruit juice that you buy in the produce aisle of SuperTarget and other top stores. Don't look for it alongside the empty containers in kitchen storage. You buy it full of juice and then you wash it out and re-use.

The top spouts are kids' favorite characters: Clifford, Bob the Builder, Barney, Curious George, and Sesame Street to name a few. Your child will definately ownership right away with these characters he or she already loves.

If you are planning to travel on a plane with this, then have your child drink up the juice before the travel day. You will not be allowed to carry the bottle through security filled with juice, however you can fill it with milk or formula and carry it. Once through security, you can fill it at the drinking fountain, or with water or juice from any of the vendors in the concourse.

Traveling with young children is happier when you are prepared. Making sure that you have something at all times for your child to drink is very important. Again, my recommendation, after many trips, is Tummy Tickler.

Mary, Queen of the Universe

2008-03-10T16:34:00.003-04:00

Spiritual renewal is something you can't buy at Orlando's Premium Outlet Stores. However, if you travel just west of Armani, you will find Mary, Queen of the Universe Shrine. There, surrounded by large pools, spouting water, palm trees and hibiscus you might just remember the proper order of the world and your place in it.

For me, one of the most sobering moments is visiting the Mother and Child's Chapel. This open-air structure is embedded with the memory tiles of countless children who lost their lives, yet cannot be forgotten. Candles burn at the altar under an intricate artwork depicting a mother's love. Standing there, you feel both the grief that was and the hope that remains.

Moving across the courtyard, you could visit the large church. Obviously a lot of devotion went into making the edifice honoring Jesus' mother. It isn't a tourist sight. It is a break in the materialism and the world of fantasy.

What I enjoyed the most was walking through the serene setting of the rosary garden. The many benches and tables make me this this would be a beautiful spot for a snack. The hide-away is shaded and quiet, littered only with pine cones and fallen blossoms, after a windy night. The I-4 races on nearby, but there is no rush in this little spot of earthly paradise.

A gift shop is available, though I didn't check it out. Really, after finding again some peace, I had all I needed.

Mary, Queen of the Universe Shrine Map

Sick in Orlando

2008-03-01T22:30:00.002-05:00

It sucks to be sick.

It really sucks to be sick on vacation.

Need a doctor while in Orlando? Don't go to the emergency room for medical needs that are urgent in nature, but not life-threatening. Find the nearest Centra Care Clinic. Walk-ins are welcome. You'll get help faster and cheaper than in the ER.

If you need a prescription, your best bet is Walgreen's. Some of the other stores are open 24-hours but do not have a pharamacy open that whole time. Don't drive around endlessly looking for the needle in the haystack. Go to the store locator and type in, "Orlando".

It's very disorientating to be away from the comforts of home, and without the usual caregivers and remedies. If you find yourself in this predictament, simply resign yourself to the truth and shelf the previous plans and schedule. Take care of yourself, or your traveling companion.

God willing, good health, like Centra Care Clinics and Walgreen's, is just round the corner.

Freezing Florida

2008-02-27T22:31:00.004-05:00

Florida can be very cold, as it is right now.

The news reports a low of 29 degrees Farenheit overnight. That's actually three degrees below freezing.

Can't do the math in order to figure out Farenheit and Celsius? Check out this website and see that no matter how you say it, Florida is cold tonight.

Nope, you really can't come to Florida with only shorts. You need one pair of pants and one long-sleeved shirt. You also need socks and shoes; don't bring only sandals.

Premium Outlet Mall

2008-02-26T09:39:00.005-05:00

Florida nights are gorgeous. I love them. You might feel too hot during the day, but after a siesta and a refreshing shower, head out into the cool night.

Where to go?

Well, if you like upscale shopping, then head over to Orlando's Premium Outlet Mall. The covered arcade-style mall is perfect for star-lit nights.

The shops themselves are a mix of the possible and the impossible. Generally, I don't pay $174 for a dress, no matter how lovely. It was more window-shopping than buying that night. If that's all you want is a walk with some materialistic dreaming, then you'll have a good time. Sure, there might be bargains, but I didn't find them. Go look and see what there is for you.

Premium Outlet Mall Map

Lake Bryan Restaurants

2008-02-25T08:40:00.003-05:00

Heading north on the 535, it turns into Apopka-Vineland. As you travel down the road, you think, as you often do in Florida, that you should head back, because you've reached the end of civilization. Then just before the I-4, you see the Lake Bryan restaurants.

You'll see Golden Corral from the road, but don't think that there's a separate entrance for it. You have to take the main entrance, which functions as the gateway for Bahama Breeze as well.

Both of these restaurants are extremely popular, so parking is can be tough. It's best to arrive early; around 4:00 PM is ideal.

Golden Corral is another pig-out buffet restaurant. For around $8.00, you eat your fill and then some. Look for their coupons in every Orlando guide. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The beginning of the experience is a little confusing. You stand waiting with the hordes in lines that will remind you of a Disney ride. When you reach the counter, you are to grab silverware and a plate and put them on a tray. Then, you choose a beverage. Only at breakfast do beverages come free. After paying, you pick a table. The server will come to check your receipt and then will refill drinks and (occasionally) clear the dirty dishes.

The beauty of Golden Corral is in the stations; these are not bars, like at other restaurants. The workers actually are preparing the food in the middle of the bakery station, at the salad station, and on the grill. You crowd around them and get the food which appears and disappears quickly. The stations are set out attractively in the center of all the seating and there's a good flow to the action. Though, the numbers of hungry diners is high, you seldom feel like you're waiting to pick out your food.

The food itself is quite good. It's got some excellent Tilipia and the hushpuppies are a must; they are so American. Broasted chicken, carved turkey and ham, pot roast, grilled steaks...ok, I'm getting hungry, so I'll stop. It's got a lot of meat. But, it has all the trimmings besides. For instance, the mushroom buttons and the battered onions, the sauteed green peppers are all yummy extras that the restaurant thoughtfully provides at the grilling station.

Golden Corral has a lot of everything. It is the teens' favorite place to eat. It is a family restaurant. It isn't high class, but yet, you don't feel like you've lowered your standards while you've eaten. It's tasty, it can be nutrious (if you chose carefully), and it's fast and cheap. Gotta like that!

Truly, if you stop at Golden Corral, you will skip the next meal. That's why I'm going to state again to eat early. DO NOT eat a late dinner there. I believe you will regret it through the bloated night.

I kind of wish that we had gone to Bahama Breeze that night. I still haven't eaten there, but I hear that it is the destination for a romantic dinner. This Valentine's Day, there was a three-hour wait to get in AND people waited! I did ask to walk through and take a look around. The surroundings are great. Atmospheric lighting, sunken pools and bridges, flowers, palm trees, and lots of cushy booths in fabulous colors. The food on the plates looked as inviting. I'll be back.

The large covered patio isn't where I'll head though, and I have two reasons for this. Firstly, the restaurant is right along a busy stretch of road and I wouldn't want that noise. Secondly, the steel drum player was really, really white and seemingly tone-deaf. Couldn't they find a real Carribean musician? Oh, well, after you have a few drinks I suppose he sounds better.

Golden Corral Map

Bahama Breeze Map

Kissimmee's Buddhist Temple

2008-02-11T21:33:00.000-05:00

Yes, that's right! There's a real, honest-to-goodness Buddhist Temple in Kissimmee.

In the land of Mickey and Minnie, there is also enlightenment.

Truly, the place is as fantastical as anything you'd see in EPCOT.

If Thailand were represented at EPCOT, it probably would look something very close to this enclave of buildings. Can't place Thailand? It's the country of "The King and I"; the former Siam.

You don't have to be Buddhist to vist the grounds and buildings. You do, however, have to welcome diversity. There are groundskeepers, from Thailand, who will leave you alone, if you wish, or will answer your questions if you ask. Look for the slow-moving men in orange.

Wondering about entering into the buildings? First and foremost, turn off your cell and then remove your shoes. Need more advice on how to act? The main building has this sign posted:

Infact, my favorite part of the visit was the signage on the trees. These wooden placards speak the eternal wisdom which is both simple and universal. I don't think you have to be Eastern to agree with these truths which are found in all religions. To be quiet and reflective as you walk around, reading these words is indeed renewing of that inner peace within.

Buddhist Temple Map

The Loop

2008-02-09T09:10:00.001-05:00

The Loop is my favorite place to shop. Located on John Young Parkway, it is neither low-class nor upscale. Like most of us shoppers, it is in the middle. The c0mplex has been open for three years now and is really fulfilling a need. It's where real people shop.

The bakery-cafe Panera is hopping every weekend. It's hard to find a table, in part because there are so many people entering, and in part because no one seems to leave. It's relaxing to sip coffee from a cup as big as your head, as you sit in a comfy leather chair. However, this isn't a coffee shop. Truly, it is a bakery. Samples are usually out in the morning and soon gone, but stop by and try some. My favorite is the Spinach and Artichock Quiche. Sure, you could pig out at a breakfast buffet for less, but you would miss out on really sumptious flavors mingling in your mouth. There are four other Panera locations around Orlando.

Check out the large animals sitting outside of Panera, if your kids need some crazy climbing time. There's a frog and a lizard for them to maul.

Looking for some cheap entertainment at the Loop? Go to Petco. It's a freebie zoo. See ferrets, bunnies, mice, hamsters, lizards, snakes, fish and the dogs who come in for grooming. Sure, you could go to the movie theatre, but I'd rather spend my time at Petco (without spending any of my money).

There's Micheal's Crafts, Kohl's, Ross (Dress for Less), Pier One, Sports Authority, and Bed, Bath and Beyond, among others.

After all that, are you still looking for more? Across the road is a new section still under development with a JC Penney's. Really, it's too far to walk with bags, so you have to drive on over.

Honestly, at The Loop, you will enjoy your time shopping, be comfortable with the money you spent and the happy with the food you ate.

If you see me at there, be sure to wave!

The Loop Map

Panera Map

Osceola Square Mall

2008-02-01T19:57:00.000-05:00

There aren't too many reasons to head to Osceola Square Mall.

It's a bit off the beaten path. Infact, it's location is where few tourists venture. If you travel east on 192 and hit Hoagland, you feel like you are no longer in La-la-land. That's exactly where the Osceola Square Mall is located.

Thankfully, there will soon be a Burlington Coat Factory and Baby Depot but it is short on good shops. It isn't an upscale mall. Is there such a thing as a "downscale" mall? If there is, do you want to shop there?

Well, you do if you're thrifty. The two largest stores are both for bargain lovers. You can search for hours and saves hundreds.

Beall's Outlet has every, and I mean every price tag at 70% off. The clothes are quality, if not always name-brands. You will not always see them grouped together, so you truly must hunt the racks. There are also shoes and household items.

On the other end of the store is Ross Dress for Less. It's a larger store and better organized, but the discounts aren't always as much. You'll see a nice dress for $8.99 but then others that hardly seem reduced in price at all. So, best not to fall in love with anything on the hangers, until you check the tag.

In between the two anchor stores, are smaller offerings: a dollar store, a Christian work-out gym, a food court, and coin-operated rides for the little ones.

Want some scandalous skimpy outfits? There's one store to help you look the part of femme fatale.

It happens to be located across from Ilham's Belly Dance Academy, run by a former EPCOT entertainer. This Moroccan beauty has built an oasis in the middle of a mall. You can get a glimpse of the class going on through the window. I don't know if that attracts new students, but it sure gathers a group of gawking geezers! See if the offer a free introductory class is still available. Belly dancing is great exercise for women! If you just want to look like a Middle-Eastern Madame, she has the outfits on sale, as well as some North African music.

Sharing the same parking lot with the mall are two very good restaurants choices: Friendly's and Pollo Tropical.

Friendly's is filled with booths and families. It's an ice-cream parlour restaurant. The food quality is higher than I expected. My Sweet Terriyaki Chicken Strips basket with Wasabi dipping sauce was terrific.

I hesitated in ordering a children's meal, since they seemed over-priced. However, when you order a children's meal for around $6, you get a drink, large portions, and a large ice cream treat for dessert. To get the most for your money, ask the server which sundaes are three scoops.

Or would you rather see where all of Kissimmee's Spanglish families eat? "Pollo," means chicken in Spanish. This restaurant specializes in Carribean cuisine. It isn't really fast food; nothing in the Carribean moves quickly. There is a drive-thru, which seems to be a bit faster than inside. If you order inside, expect to sit and wait for your number to be called.

The food at Pollo Tropical is worth the wait. The chicken is grilled and tastes healthy with the rice and beans. The prices are fair, with a family meal of half a chicken, and two sides costing around $16.

Interesting sides are offered on the menu such as fried plantains ( ripe sweet plantains are angle-cut and cooked to a golden, caramelized finish), yuca (a fried or boiled potato yummy garlic sauce), and tosetones (a classic Latin American side dish of crispy fried green plantains served with a zesty cilantro mayo sauce).

Top off the meal with one of my favorite drinks in the Orlando area: the cream smoothie. It comes in three flavors: strawberry, mango, or (my favorite) pina colada. If you really want to count calories, then ask for only the fruit smoothie and not the cream smoothie...but it tastes soooo good with the cream!

Ah, come to think of it, there are just enough reasons to visit the Osceola Square Mall.

Osceola Square Mall Map

Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores

2008-01-28T09:21:00.002-05:00

Shop 'til ya drop.

It makes sense to do your shopping on your Florida vacation...especially if you're holding Euros. Our dollar just isn't as strong, yet our styles and quality are top-knotch.

Some stores are better than others. I do think that there's a great collection of the best American stores over at the Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores. It's a real cross-section.

For the kids, there's Oshkosh and Carter's. These are truly two of the best manufacturers of affordable quality children's clothing. Only Hanna Andersson makes it better--and they're Swedish!

On your way from Oshkosh to Carter's, stop off at the playground area. It's well-equipped and shaded during most of the day. You'll find it right next to the food building.

For the teens and young adults, there's Aeropostale and Old Navy.

For us older folks, there's Tommy Hilfiger, Liz Claiborne, VanHeusen, Eddie Bauer , lots of shoes, and more.

The setting of stores encircling a fountain is very nice. It's a good feel; much nicer than an enclosed mall. It's very clean, organized, and easy to find exactly what you need.

The location is great---just south on the 535 from Magic Kingdom's entrance.

Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores Map

Miserable Time with Mickey Mouse

2008-01-20T08:01:00.000-05:00

"How long are they going to take?" asks the impatient dad. He's standing at the Norwegian KIDCOT.

The mom, standing over her two little artists at work says, "They'll be done in a minute."

"When?! WHEN?!" The dad explodes out of frustration. "It's almost one o'clock!"

The dad is irate.

The mother is embarrassed.

The kids are caught in the middle.

The sad thing is that this scenario could happen to any of us on a Park visit. It would be nice to think that we're above a family fight in public, but we're not.

Here are some tips to avoiding those same mistakes:

Remember that the trip is for the kids Grown-ups drag kids around all year long. For once, let the kids be in charge of what they want to do. Give them as much time as they need to enjoy. Sacrifice for the sake of their happiness.

Don't Think about the Money The money has been spent. It's gone. You won't get your money's worth by squeezing it out of the kids. Know what I mean? It's not their fault if you overspent.

Don't Watch the Time Isn't that part of the reason you went on vacation? You wanted to feel free? If you really want to see a particular show or event, then set your cell phone timer to go off as a reminder.

Don't go on vacation to Disney if your marriage is in trouble Sometimes, parents think that a family vacation is all they need to repair a relationship breaking apart. Actually, "the Happiest Place on Earth," only feels that way when you are already getting along. If you can't handle day-to-day life at home, then think how fraught the days will be while packed together in one room every night, navigating tight schedules in the day, and constantly needing to make quick decisions. Seriously, spend the money on counseling to examine the problems, not on escaping the problems.

Eat, Drink, and Sleep You have to take care of your body's basic needs, regardless of anything else. If you get dehydrated or hungry, you'll get irritable as well. As for sleep, kids need more of it. Sure, they'll beg you to stay up later, but you have to keep in mind what will happen the next day. Plus, most parents aren't used to spending 24/7 with their children and need some "me" time in that hotel room to simply re-group.

Let it Go What if you don't see everything on your list? Let it go. What if you misjudged the wait time? Let it go. What if your child begs to go back to the hotel swimming pool? Let it go. Yep, you might as well just live with the reality of the moment. You wished for more, but got less. You can either complain about it (contaminating everyone around you) and try to force reality to change (which hasn't been known to happen yet) or you can go with the flow. You can enjoy what you do have rather than what you don't have.

Keep Perspective If you run across Tomorrow Land to be first in line at Space Mountain, but your child ends up with a skinned knee and in tears...I mean...what's the point? If you want your child to remember a happy time, then give it to them. Simply buying a ticket to the Parks isn't enough to get nominated for "Cool Dad of the Year." You have to really give them those moments of love and caring, kindness and understanding while in the Parks.

As for those of us who pass by the ugly melt-downs, simply say a prayer for them and a wish for us that we don't do it too.

Sizzlin' Grill, Ponderosa & Full House

2008-01-18T10:24:00.000-05:00

Buffet restaurants are good and bad.

They are good in that you eat your fill without question. You can satisfy any number of people with any imaginable taste sensation. They are bad in that you often eat too much and eat foods that only half satisfy you in terms of quality.

At Marker 9 at Highway 192 in Kissimmee, you'll find three buffet restaurants: The Sizzlin' Grill, Ponderosa and the Chinese restaurant Full House.

Sizzlin' Grill is open from 7:00 A.M. (for the $3.79 breakfast buffet) to 11:00 P.M.

Sizzlin' Grill is locally owned; it's not part of a national franchise. When you walk in, you get more of homey feel. It might just be my imagination, but it seems as if the employees really care. The buffet is always impeccably stocked and cleaned up. All the food items are labeled. The wait staff is so very friendly.

I wish the food were as good. It's OK. It's about as good as mom makes, if mom sometimes throws a frozen pizza into the oven. Some things, like the turkey and the salmon are very delicious. Somethings, like the soggy broccoli swimming in liquid, are edible but not really done the way you would like.

My biggest complaint is the music. I'm not sure why Rock is playing, but I wish it wasn't. I'm all for modern music at the arcade, but not at a sit-down family restaurant.

The one thing that I like about Sizzlin' Grill, but I'm sure the owners don't like, is that it's nearly empty. Of course, I feel sorry for any eating establishment with only a fourth of the sections filled. Though, it does make for an easier time getting another plate piled high!

Ponderosa has the opposite problem; it's too busy. To enter into the restaurant is to enter into chaos of large groups in a hurry, famished families and the slow elderly. I don't care for this kind of feel as I eat; it's like eating in a bus terminal. Of course, it's not always like this, but more often than not, it is.

For some reason, the employees at this particular Ponderosa remind of the United Nations, where at least you get translators.

But, food is the main reason to go to any restaurant. Ponderosa's food is good enough. It's that industrial-strength, cafeteria fare. It is plentiful, though not replenished as quickly as the people dish it up. The employees aren't really to blame; their restaurant is just too popular.

It's open early for the $3.99 breakfast buffet.

If Ponderosa is the quintessential American restaurant, then Full House is an equally good representative of Chinese restaurants. I love the decor--the red tented center is wonderfully kitschy. It isn't fancy, but you feel a happy mood. It is a smaller space than Sizzlin' Grill, so even though there are a constant flow of people (as opposed to a flood like at Ponderosa), you don't feel like you're in an empty cavern. It's quiet, with only some Chinese music playing.

The employees are Chinese also...very, very Chinese...as in: don't expect them to understand you. That communication gap would be a problem if you were going to order off the menu, but you're going for the buffet.

It is typical Chinese buffet. There are the crab legs, the pork ribs, beef with peppers and lots and lots of chicken. There is also lots of deep fat fried foods. Chinese buffets do mix the extremely healthy with the shamelessly unhealthy. It's tasty at Full House.

Full House is open 11:00 A.M. to 11:00 P.M.

Sizzlin' Grill Map

Ponderosa Map

Full House Map

FEBRUARY, 2008 UPDATE:

There's yet another buffet restaurant which has been added to the previous line-up on 192, across from Old Town. Since Cici's Pizza is a big money-maker, the name for this rip-off is IC Pizza. At $4.79, the all-you-can-eat is a great price, but it's not that great an experience.

Honestly, it takes time to make a restaurant into a destination. On my first visit, I faced some dissapointment which guarantees that I won't be back any time soon. They need to work out the kinks.

The price of $4.79 was fine for me, but I felt it was unfair to have young children pay $3.79. That is without a drink. At Cici's, children are $1.99, which includes a drink.

The restaurant is currently cavernous, with only a few tables filled with others like me; hungry people wanting to try something new in town. The feeling of emptiness is increased by the lack of pleasant music. I complained about Sizzlin' Grill's music, but now I'm going complain about the lack of any, any music. The only sound you hear is the team of employees trying the offerings. There's a lot of commaraderie between workers, to the point that I felt like an intruder. My used plates sat too long while they sampled the pizza that I thought was made for me--the paying customer. It's a little strange to eat under such conditions.

The Romaine salad is better than at Cici's. There are more tasty bits tossed in with the leafy greens.

I hated the garlic bread which has a greasy taste; not a buttery taste.

The pizza itself is OK. I would say that the freshly baked pizza is better than Cici's. The crust is actually baked on the premises, rather than shipped pre-fab. The sauces are rather blah, with nothing that improves or diminishes the whole. The toppings are of somewhat uneven quality; some toppings look downright nasty, while others appear very fresh. Overall, the pizzas are good enough for what you pay. However, with so few people scarfing down the food, the pizza sits for a long time and ages unappetizingly.

As with Cici's, I continue to be dismayed at the lack of signage. What is on the pizza? I don't know! What's more, the employees don't always know and they must ask around to find out. What a drag! Can't pizza buffet restaurants simply place labels in front of their offerings?

As I said, I won't be back any time soon. I wish them well. I think it's a great location and has serious potential to be a contender for some of Cici's dollars. First, though, they need to think of how to please their own customers.

Medieval Village

2008-01-14T10:33:00.001-05:00

Florida can be kind of funny.

It's a state where people tout cartoon kitsch but forget to mention a Medieval Village replica.

Sure, Medieval Times is a popular tourist attraction. You've heard about that, I bet.

Did you know that right next to the faux castle is a very authentic looking Medieval Village?

This is not just a theatrical send-up to the times. It is as real-looking as it gets.

You walk through the doors and find yourself in museum quality surroundings.

According to one of the guides there, the furnishings and materials used were brought from Spain by the original men who built the castle. While more castles were built around the country, this is the only one to stand next to a village. It is special.

Strolling through the buildings, you'll see homelife.

You'll see the craftshops as well: the woodworkers, weavers, potters, and metal crafters. You might even see some crafters. Ask them questions, as they are very knowledgeable. There used to be a gift shop where the crafters sold their wares, but a hurricane destroyed a couple of the buildings.

They also used to have weddings performed in the courtyard. What an easy way to host a wedding! I'm surprised the management of Medieval Times doesn't try to sell this idea more.

One thing I did pass on was the torture exhibit. Man's inhumanity to man is not something that interests me. As for children seeing it, the images are very disturbing and likely to cause nightmares in very young or very sensitive kids.

It's a nice 20-minute visit and the complex opens at 4:00 P.M. It stays open until the show starts (usually at 7:00 P.M.). If you go too early, you'll be one of the only ones. It's better to tour it when it's closer to show time and you can blend in.

See, there isn't a charge to enter; it's free BUT you are supposed to have tickets to the show.

It's actually a bit romantic to visit at night. On the weekends, there are two shows (around at 6:00 P.M. and 8:15 P.M.). If you go when the first show lets out and the second one has not yet begun, the timing is perfect. The parking lot is busy and full, but no one will question you at all.

It's really a quaint place and it's a shame that it's such a secret...at least it was...until now.

Medieval Times Map

Bus to Magic Kingdom

2008-01-12T07:25:00.001-05:00

Not everyone who travels to Orlando is looking to spend the wad. There are many who would like to experience the ultimate vacation without financial regrets.

One cost to eliminate is car rental.

Think about it...where are you going?

Obviously, if you are staying at a Park resort, then you're all set. You're right there in the action; having gotten shuttled in and shuttled out. You'll miss seeing the other sites, but if you are a first-time visitor, or someone prone to taking it easy, seeing the Parks may be enough for you.

If you are staying at a hotel with a shuttle, that's great too. In some ways, it's better to be staying outside of the Parks. It's cheaper. It's still just minutes away from the Park. You can be close to the array of cheap buffets and affordable restaurants offered.

What about staying at a hotel/motel without a shuttle?

Highway 192, in Kissimee is full of choices.

You have to be careful to avoid those motels that have started to cater to the working poor of Central Florida. Those places have become flophouses that act like a magnet for crime. You'll know which to avoid by the price. If they advertise that they are cheap by the week, then they are housing borderline clientele.

If you are situated in a hotel/motel on 192 then, even without a shuttle service, you can make it to Disney cheaply: take the bus. The 56 bus costs $1.75 each way and comes about every 30 minutes. It will pick you up at a bus stop on 192 (make sure that's it's not just a bench without a sign) and drop you off at the Disney Transportation Center. It's fast, with no stops past the Disney designed town, "Celebration." Oh, and you don't have to look at the map to figure out where you are...or how you got lost. The bus driver does all the work and you relax.

By taking the bus, you eliminate car rental for that day (around $25) and the parking lot fee ($11). You paid $3.50. That's a savings of $32.50.

The buses are very nice. They are chilled to almost freezing. Clean. They even have TVs with the latest headlines playing. The people who ride are courteous. Infact, many of the people traveling to the Transportation Center on the bus are low-level employees of the Parks. You'll also see other thrifty Park visitors as well.

For me, traveling in high style isn't really my thing. There are times to splurge, but I don't think the whole trip needs to be a gluttonous affair. Traveling by local transit grounds you a bit in reality and keeps you from losing perspective. It also keep you from losing your money needlessly.

Gatorland

2008-01-08T09:43:00.000-05:00

"JAWS!" Screams the billboard.

You see a huge set of alligator jaws, complete with flesh-ripping teeth. I'm sure that kind of image appeals to some. For others, like me, it's a turn-off.

What a surprise to actually visit Gatorland and experience a serene setting. It is much more National Geographic than Fear Factor. Think, "zoo". Sure, there is gator wrestling, but that is truly a small portion of the experience.

There are lush surroundings of Florida wilderness. You can get your exercise on the 10-minute swamp walk. The trails are fun to tramp while viewing the animals in cages.

It isn't just alligators around a pond. Those alligators are enormous and truly awesome specimens of The Creator. However, large reptiles don't move that often, so you really have to offer more and Gatorland does.

There are so many birds of every shape and size. Peacocks, turkeys, ibis, flamingos, macaws, parrots and more.

There is a bear, a petting zoo, deer, snakes, tortoises, and lizards.

And there's more than animals for the little visitors. I was impressed by the play area. You can have your guys burn off steam on the well equipped playground. If you bring swimsuits, they can play in the spash park.

The only thing I disagree with is the choice to make the train an extra charge of $2.00 per person, after paying so much to enter. Buy tickets on line for $19.95 for adults and $11.95 for kids over age 3 or look for coupons in the local attraction guides.

Hungry? There is some food available at Gatorland, right next to the Emu bird. If you wish for other choices, there is only a lone pizza place across the street. For some reason, there isn't much built up on that portion of Orange Blossom Trail.

Orange Blossom Trail is often abbreviated by locals as, "OBT." And just to make sure that tourists are sufficiently confused as they drive on Highway 192, you'll see a sign for Main Street, but no sign which states that Main turns into Orange Blossom Trail if you take a left and head north.

If you are local, or if you frequent the area more than once in a year, consider purchasing an annual pass. It's one of the best deals in town. It pays for itself after two visits. Consider it as your very own zoo, playground and splash park for your family's enjoyment.

Despite what the billboards say, it is more about fun than fangs.

Gatorland Map

Flea Markets

2008-01-07T10:40:00.000-05:00

"Would you like to go to the flea market with me?"

"Naw, when you've seen one flea, you've seen them all."

The concept of a market place with numerous stalls run by independent contractors is not new. It had been done all over the world from Mexico City to Coventry. What makes them work is the diverse items offered. You can find produce, lingerie, antiques, knock-offs, toys, imports, goo-ga's, and somethings you're not quite sure about. It's fun to find.

There are two main flea markets on Highway 192 in Kissimmee; Maingate and Flea Market Prices. They are much the same, with only a few variances. Too much of what is offered is cheap tourist items and that's too bad. If the sellers could only learn from their global neighbors and diversify their stalls more.

Still, for those who shop for entertainment, it's worth a look. You can haggle price on items and sometimes get a better deal.

Flea Market Prices is located between Markers 14 & 15, after the intersection with the Super Walmart.

You'll find Maingate, directly after the large orange at between Markers 10 & 11. At Maingate, they are air-conditioned, whereas at Flea Market Prices, they are not. On most days, I don't think you'll notice the latter being too hot.

Maingate does offer sit-down restaurants, whereas Flea Market Prices, they do not. The Moroccan restaurant at Maingate is actually a favorite haunt of local North Africans who sample home cooking outside over-looking the pond with fountain.

I bet in Morocco, you could get better deals with more interesting offerings, but since you're in Kissimmee, go ahead and spend an hour at one of these flea markets.

Flea Markets Map

Osceola County Pioneer Museum

2008-01-05T09:57:00.000-05:00

Central Florida is certainly a study in contrast. Travel east down Highway 192 in Kissimmee and around marker 14 you'll see a castle and then a Super Wal-Mart. Turn the corner at the lights onto Bass Road and right after that humungous parking lot and there's a turn-of-the-century farm. It is as close to time travel as you'll ever get.

The Osceola County Pioneer Museum is an earnet effort by hard-working volunteers to keep true to the history that took place long before Walt ever appeared on the scene. Kissimmee was home to ranchers, called "Crackers," for the long whips that made that cracking sound as they'd use them with cattle.

The museum is open 10:00 to 4:00 Thursday through Saturday and Sunday 12:00 to 4:00. Requested donations are $2.00 per adult, $1.00 per child and children 4 and under are free.

Pull in and you'll immediately wonder where to park. There isn't any parking lot; just wide open field. There are no signs and no real plan. The whole compound is rather ambiguous. Just pull over by the fence and go for the walking tour.

There may or may not be a volunteer guide available, but you don't really need one to explain.

It's life as it once was:

the farmhouse with it's antiques,

the old barber shop in back of the country store,

and the old school house.

There is also a hodge-podge of collections and memoriabilia. It's not really as much museum as Grandpa's garage (and I mean no disrespect) but it is still worth a walk-through. You just have to be careful as you go! The space is pretty tight for navigating.

One thing that's nice is just letting the kids run around. It is quiet. It is safe. It is truly a step back in time.

About the only thing to caution you on is that the antique items are too accessible to little hands and this is not a "hands-on" museum for kids. It's to look at, and not to touch.

While you are there, see if the nature walk across the street is open. This is a small conversation area sandwiched between two new housing developments. You walk down a curvy path (cut by local boyscouts) down to the wooden walk-way over a swamp. Will there be alligators? No telling! Those moments in the swamp area will remind you that even before tourism, or Crackers, was a time of pristine beauty.

Central Florida, is indeed a study in contrast.

As you pull out of museum, consider going right instead of left. You'll come to the most interesting resort I hope you never check into. Give Kids the World can only be glimpsed from the other side of the wall on Bass Road, for those with healthy kids. Only those children who are fighting life-threatening illnesses are invited in. They are given a completely free visit to the resort and attractions in Central Florida. This non-profit organization relies on donations to make these dreams come true.

It's sobering to remember that, for some, a trip to Orlando is a dying wish. It's good to count your blessings and vow that your vacation will be spent enjoying each other.

Osceola County Pioneer Museum Map

Cici's Pizza & Hawaiian Rumble

2008-01-02T20:21:00.001-05:00

Somethings go great together like Sun & Fun, Mickey & Minnie, and Cici's Pizza Buffet and Hawaiian Rumble Adventure Golf. You will find them sitting side-by-side on South Apopka Vineland Road in Orlando.

With so many miniature golf establishments in town, why choose this one?

There's Pirate's Cove, Congo River, Gator Golf, River Adventure, Bonanza, Tiki Island...

BUT let's compare price.

With a coupon, Pirate's Cove is still over $8.00 per person.

What I liked about Hawaiian Rumble is that they offer an "Early Bird" coupon for those wishing to play golf before 4:00 in the afternoon. They are open at 10:00, so that's six hours to choose from. The price? $3.99 per person; that's half the price of Pirate's Cove.

There are two courses creatively encircling a, "volcano". The first time fire shoots out of the volcano will startle you, but that's all part of the fun. Adding to the good time are bouncy

Choose the easier "Lani Course" if you're with young children. You don't have to pay for children under age four, who are still given an over sized putter. There are so many watery places, that I couldn't really recommend it to parents who have a tough time controlling tiny wanderers. You really have to keep a hand on them! Oh, and make sure they don't sit down on the greens, or you'll have a soggy bottom to contend with.

There are wheel-chair accessible holes as well.

It's worth saying that Bonanza Golf, located at Mile Marker 5 on Highway 192 in Kissimmee offers a $3.99 coupon, but it is only applicable from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.

There's another reason to choose to go to this location. One of the keys to having a successful vacation is planning times that flow effortlessly from one activity to another. Choosing a mini-golf next to a popular restaurant is a good idea. You cut down on travel time, and eliminate the worst moment on any vacation: the hungry hunt for a place on which you all agree. You can either work up an appetite playing beforehand, or walk off your over indulgences later.

You will overindulge at Cici's Pizza. It's not that it's the best pizza you've ever had. It's not actually that great, but it's plentiful. An insider reports from one Cici's in town that an ambulance is called nearly every weekend for those who couldn't say, "no," and find themselves engorged beyond endurance.

The price advertised is what attracts families: $4.99 for ages 11 and up.$1.19 $6.58. Age 11 and under $2.69

The thing to keep in mind with most buffet prices is that drinks are not included. Only if you are under age three does your 99 cents buy you the buffet with a drink. Drinks for ages 3-11 are 99 cents additional. Drinks for ages 11 and up at Cici's are $1.19 additional, for a total with tax of $6.58.

What you'll get for that price get is a chance to return as much as you like to their buffet. There is pasta and sauce. There is an iceberg lettuce salad, another salad with bacon bits and then a pasta salad. And then there's the pizza.

My biggest complaint about Cici's is that they don't seem to understand how particular diners with special dietary needs are. There are some people who don't eat meat or don't eat pork. There isn't a lot of signage provided and pizza is one of those foods that you can't really distinguish its ingredients. Asking one of the workers again and again is a drag.

Macaroni and cheese pizza is a hit with the kids. Others will like the spicy chicken. My favorite was the garlic cheese bread. For this ability to satisfy a diverse table of taste buds, Cici's does well.

For dessert, I assembled two plates of the brownies, cinnamon rolls and apple tart wedges; one for each person to sample. Again, everyone had their different favorite flavor and it was fun to discuss which was best.

The atmosphere is bustling and a little loud. It's a family restaurant. For those of you with rambunctious kids, it's perfect...they'll blend right in.

Our bill was just over $30.00. If we had ordered two large pizzas anywhere else, we would have paid as much for just the pizzas. The quality for those pizzas would have been better I think. The selection and the ability to make such individual choices would have been limited.

After a late lunch, we had no need for dinner. But, we did need some golf!

Cici's Pizza Map
Hawaiian Rumble Adventure Golf Map

Orange World

2008-01-02T17:08:00.000-05:00

"Look, Sweetie! Look out your window! What's that?"

"It's a punkin'!"

"Noooooo, it's an orange. We're in Florida and in Florida they have a lot of oranges. It's a biiiiiiiig orange. So, what is that, honey?"

"It's biiiiiiiig punkin'!"

Actually, Orange World isn't a pumpkin or an orange. It's one of those roadside oddities. Infact, it's so spectacularly odd that you'll see it on the cover of Peter Genovese's book, "Roadside Florida: The Definitive Guide to the Kingdom of Kitsch

Located in Kissimmee between markers 10 and 11 on Highway 192, this four-story dome will catch your eye. Even in the night, neon accentuates its form. You can't miss it.

Does that mean you should park the car and go in?

Well, did you want to ship Florida oranges? That would be one reason to go, but maybe the only reason.

For me, the touristy merchandise crammed inside was much the same as you'd find anywhere else.

But if you need to do some shopping, consider if you'd like to say back home, "I bought this T-shirt for you in The Big Orange! I got a really juicy deal!"

Orange World Map

Kissimmee Go-Karts

2008-01-01T12:04:00.000-05:00

What's the Difference between a tourist trap and a tourist destination?

A tourist trap is like a mirage, that you see from afar. It beckons you forth, and only once you have the kids unbuckled and the car doors locked, do you realize that it isn't worth your time and money.

Then, there are some little gems that don't seem like much from the road but really give much more pleasure than you would guess.

You'll find just such simple family fun at Ride Mile Marker 13 on Highway 192. Sandwiched between a castle for sale (it used to be a haunted house) and a McDonald's is Kissimmee Go-Karts.

Kissimmee Go-Karts isn't glossy or glitzy; it's like the anti-Disney: low-tech, a little dirty, no lines and little to no cost. After a few hermetically sealed days at the Parks, coming here is a refreshing change.

The first thing you'll see is the pool of baby alligators. It's tempting to throw a glance and then walk on by, but take your time to really observe them. I'm intrigued by their sense of community, where tails rest overlapping each other on the rocks. Some are floating, like motionless logs.

Others are being fed by visitors willing to pay $2.00 for the privledge. The visitors are given a pole with a string to which they have to attach a piece of hot dog. For me? I'd rather watch the alligators go after the meat that someone else has paid for.

Sadly, there are reminders posted that taunting or teasing alligators is a Federal offense, since alligators have been a protected species since 1973.

Kids are eager to sit in the two go-karts provided for pictures. It's seems implausible that those same kids, who were given so much at Disney, would enjoy just turning a steering wheel around, but they do.

The little ones also like the other coin-operated riding toys available. Hey, if you're really cheap (or if they scare easily) you don't even have to put in money!

For the older kids, there is the arcade, but the real attraction is the go-kart track. When you see it up close, the track seems rather short, because so much of it goes back beyond sight. You can only see up to the first bridge. Take a look at this picture and see how much more there really is!

The best, best, coolest part is that it is very easy to get a "FREE RIDE" coupon. You can print out this one from the internet, or you can tear one out from most attraction guides. Just redeem it at the window before going up to the pit crew guys. The guys will put you or your kid in a go-kart for once around at no charge..and with no catch! It is only one coupon per family. Those who don't ride, can wait on the bleachers. You'll actually see the driver twice, as the track winds around. It's almost as fun to cheer them on!

After your visit, it's only a walk across the parking lot to visit a McDonald's playland. The beauty with these spots is that kids get to be their wild, little selves. So much of Disney time is parents needing to keep kids controlled. It's good for their souls to let them loose. You can feed them $1.00 ice cream cones when they're done.

And if you've been careful, that buck will be the only thing you've paid, at one of Kissimmee's best spots for family fun.

Kissimmee Go-Karts Map