Disney magic: Downtown Disney is among the group-friendly venues in central Florida.
By Mark Chesnut
Orlando may be known as the capital of Florida vacations, but its many world-famous attractions can also serve as memorable backdrops for business meetings, entertaining and enjoying time off after long days at work. (more…)
Doodle & dine: Sketches dance on screens at Animator's Palate on the Disney Fantasy. Credit: Matt Stroshane.
By Tim Enstice
In advance of its first official cruise on March 31, yesterday the brand new Disney Fantasy embarked on an exclusive preview cruise to showcase all of the new features and amenities that families will experience throughout their vacation. From the AquaLab to the Disney Wishes stage show to the Bibbidi Boppidi Boutique, among many other additions, the Disney Fantasy is an entirely new vacation experience that builds upon the success of its sister ship, the Disney Dream. (more…)
Grand style: The Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort, Bonnet Creek
By Mark Chesnut
With interesting new hotels and an array of renovations and new meeting and event space opening at existing properties, Orlando hotels are offering more than ever for business travelers as well as anyone looking to plan a Florida vacation. (more…)
Swim with tangs, rainbow fish and butterfly fish in Aulani's Rainbow Reef. Credit: Paul Hiffmeyer/Disney Destinations.
By Jill E. Cooper
As spring break crowds head to traditional destinations in Florida and Mexico this year, travelers with a fondness for wildlife should head west to Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa, the newest and arguably most magnificent resort designed by the magic-makers at Disney. There, along the sun-kissed southwestern shoreline of Oahu, some of nature’s most awe-inspiring creatures have returned to celebrate spring. (more…)
Batter up to a budget vacation: Hit the diamonds in Arizona and Florida for spring break 2012.
By Jeanenne Tornatore
Families itching for a different kind of getaway are in luck. Check out these five spring break getaway ideas that will suit any lifestyle — from sports enthusiasts to the spontaneous traveler, with an affordability factor that appeals to everyone. (more…)
Bears know best: The Country Bear Jamboree -- one of the original acts at the park -- will fete the extra day.
By Deborah Bowen
Every four years, the calendar rewards us with an extra 24 hours to do with as we see fit. Some work, some play and some choose to immerse themselves in magic. Walt Disney World is exercising its option of giving us 24 straight hours of incredible fun and excitement with ‘One More Disney Day.’ On Feb. 29, Magic Kingdom will stay open from 6 a.m. through 6 a.m. on March 1. So what do you do with 24 extra hours of uninterrupted fun in the Kingdom? Here are five overlooked attractions that might be perfect for you to visit (or revisit, as the case may be): (more…)
Skip the chocolates -- sprinkle spontaneity into your Valentine's Day celebration with a Disney vacation.
By Jill E. Cooper
Ah, love. Some say “it makes the world go round,” while others insist that it is “what makes the ride worthwhile.” In either case, Valentine’s Day gives us the chance to celebrate those who bring love into our lives. If you and your loved one are fortunate enough to spend Valentine’s Day this year at Walt Disney World, you’ll find a full range of ways to make your day extra sweet. (more…)
Deck party: Fight the winter doldrums with the fam aboard the Disney Dream. Credit: Matt Stroshane.
By Deborah Bowen
Many people, especially at this chilly time of the year, crave the warm sun and golden sands of the world’s welcoming beaches. I appreciate these natural wonders, but as a Florida native and current resident, I sometimes like to appreciate them while wearing a sweater. (more…)
Is your tween or teen past the princess phase? Treat her to high tea at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort.
By Jill E. Cooper
I think it’s safe to say that every parent of a newborn has received the sage advice from a more seasoned parent – enjoy each minute with your son or daughter because the years that child will spend under your roof will pass all too quickly. “Remember,” they’ll say, “just like a butterfly, she too will spread her wings and fly some day. Enjoy her caterpillar years.” If you have a high school senior in your household, I don’t need to tell you how eerily accurate those words can be. (more…)
Outdoors in: Guests enjoy open-air massages at Aulani - a Disney Resort & Spa. Credit: David Roark/Disney Destinations.
By Jill E. Cooper
Nestled inconspicuously on the first floor of the Wai’anae tower of Disney’s Aulani Resort & Spa, you’ll find one of Oahu’s newest hidden treasures – the Laniwai Spa. “Laniwai” is a Hawaiian word that translates to “freshwater heaven” for English speakers. “Heavenly” is an apt description for an afternoon spent at Laniwai. As you amble about the grounds of Aulani, you won’t find this enchanting 18,000 square foot tropical retreat by accident. You must look for it, but the search is well worth the rewards that await you there. (more…)
We love to travel, and we love to talk about it. The Orbitz Blog is another way we can share our expertise, advice and the occasional random thought.
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