Disney World
http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/
Disney World is always on our to-do list when we visit Orlando and it’s amazing that each time we go, we always seem to find something new to do or have a new favorite activity. This was Shawna’s first time at Disney World, and it’s always fun to go with a ‘first timer’ and see what stands out to them. The Haunted Mansion (in The Magic Kingdom park) was on her list of favorites, even though she usually isn’t that fond of haunted houses or scary attractions. With its Ghost Host, secret panels, Doom Buggy ride, séance in progress and more, the Haunted Mansion attraction is definitely an experience not to be missed!
Her other favorite was the Expedition Everest attraction in the Asia area of the Animal Kingdom park. This high-altitude, high-speed roller coaster attraction train ride is for big kids, teens and adults and takes you to the “Roof of the World”, home of the Yeti at the mountain’s peak. The trek then takes you on a railway car to Mount Everest, across the Forbidden Mountains, and then to the summit for an amazing view of the Animal Kingdome park.
With its four theme parks (Animal Kingdom, Magic Kingdom, Epcot and Hollywood Studios) and two water parks (Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon) as well as areas like Downtown Disney (great for shopping, dining and entertainment), there is just so much to do at Disney World. Whether you want to see something new each time your return, visit old favorites or introduce someone new to the magic of Disney World, you won’t ever be disappointed with your visit!
Paradiso 37
www.paradiso37.com | (407) 934-3700
One of the best things about Disney is that they have free transportation between all the parks, so it doesn’t matter where you are staying, you can always get to other portions of Disney quickly and for no charge! We booked a dinner in Downtown Disney at Paradiso 37 for this trip. Paradiso 37 is a restaurant and bar that serves up unique cuisine inspired by the street foods of the Americas. Menu items include options from North, South and Central America and, for the adults in your party, there is also an international wine bar and a one-of-kind tequila tower bar with more than 50 kinds of tequila and a selection of signature frozen margaritas.
The atmosphere here is wonderful and our appetizers (which include options like quesadillas, Central American Crazy Corn and North American Corn Dogs) were delicious. Dinner options included salads like the Skewered Shrimp & Jicama Orange Salad and entrees such as Colombian Style Whole Crispy Hen, Bacon & Pineapple Burger, Beef Short Ribs and Southern Fish Fry. Whether you want to be adventurous and try something new or go with an old stand-by, you’ll find something you’ll love. If you are going with a party of adults, take note that there is live entertainment nightly and that the bar is open late (and features their specialty ‘Mangled Margarita’ and the World’s Coldest Draft Beer!).
There’s a reason why Orlando/Disney World is on our list of favorite vacation spots! Whether you are taking your family, a group of friends, small children or teenagers, there is always plenty to keep everyone entertained and you’ll never get bored with all the destination has to offer! If you haven’t made plans to visit Disney yet, you should definitely put it on your list!