A Night at DisneyQuest

Once upon a time i found myself at a wonderful land of fun and entertainment with an somewhat endless prospect of amusement. Where was I? Chucky Cheese's? Dominoe's Pizza? NO my friends! I was at Disney's own DisneyQuest with 5 floors of interactinve awesomeness. DisneyQuest has got it all, everything from 80's arcade games to interactive hydraulic powered fighter pilot simulators. And everything inside the complex is covered with admission. DisneyQuet is definitely the best thing on Disney property in my opinion. Why go spend all day in the heat with tacky tourists at Epcot when you could be a in a nice air conditioned building fighting aliens and racing Ferrari's? Weird how people come here to get hot and sweaty all day right? When you enter DisneyQuest not only is nice and Air Conditioned but it is full of entertainment everywhere you look, Disney has recreated some of their hit movies into rides here. You can be a real "jack sparro" and wreck some pirate ships, it really is a great experience. You get to stand inside the pirate ship and pull the strings on the cannons and blow up other ships on the screen. You'll surely love this treat at DisneyQuest! My favorite part of it tho is all the interactive racing games. They have some really good ones when you can pick whatever car you want and then beef it up before you actually race by adding a supercharger,nos, etc..
I can spend hours playing these games and i surely have before as well. I enjoy makin the kids cry due to me beating them at their own games countless times over and over again. I also love the fighter pilot games because it's so realistic. The cockpit that you sit in while your shooting the planes actually moves up and adown and rotates while you're playing to give a more realistic game play. This game can get pretty intense so make sure you hydrate before you play or you may pass out from the pure funage.

DisneyQuest has mutliple levels as i was saying before meaning each level has it's own unique theme. For example they have one whole level dedicated just for forestry themed activites such as lion king interactions and virtual hang-gliding. This level is really fun because they have interactions with river water rapids, in a row boat. It is a great ride that you definitely get a workout on.

All in all Disneyquest is an amazing place that i would recommend over any other central florida attraction.

FUN SPOT ATTRACTIONS

Fun Spot USA on a Sunday night, It was an AWESOME!!!!!.

Right next to the "road course" are the flying chairs. WOW!!!, yes that's right, FLYING CHAIRS, the classic ride, so simple yet so thrilling. I hadn't been on this since I was a child. This ride brought back great memories as well as giving me a little scare. Lol. I think I was more afraid of the ride now as an adult than I was as when I was a child. My family just had a blast watching me scream in this simple yet fun ride. It is the simple things in life that make the best memories. I don't think I will be able to forget that weightless feeling. It is just so exciting to be that high up and having fun with those close to you. I won't forget the laughs I shared during and after that ride, as well as the embarrassing jokes that will be shared by my family and friends, jaja.

My group decided to move onto the "HOT SEAT". WOW!! Was this a monster! The ride is swinging you about 100 feet in the air until you are at about 90 degrees angle to the ground. This ride really is intense; I would not recommend this to anyone with a weak heart or stomach. Let’s just say that if you are weak of stomach, your co-riders might not be too happy with you. Now for those who dare get on this ride, it will be the thrill of a lifetime. This is one of the rides that you will remember during your adventure to Fun Spot. When the ride begins, it swings you back and forward somewhat slow. It is once you are at about the third swing when it gets intense. This ride will get your heart beating at a ridiculous rate. Once you are in the air everyone looks tiny, and that is only when you are looking down, when you swing the opposite way and get to enjoy the view of the stars, it feels like you can reach up and touch them. I think I might have grabbed some pixie dust while I was face to face with the moon. As scary as the ride may be, it is a must do while at fun spot. After the ride is at a complete stop, its time for your friends to laugh at all the funny screams that you made while on the ride. An Experience like no other.

If thrills is not your cup of tea. You can try their arcade room. With games such as: DANCE, DANCE REVOLUTION, and DEAL OR NO DEAL, they are so much fun. They also have a glow in the dark mini-golf course. 18 holes of nothing but black light clubs and great graphics. These 18 holes are challenging and fun. Remember to grab your pencil and scorecard, without these; you won’t get to enjoy your bragging rights to the fullest. Fun spot offers a wide variety of attractions for both the young and young at heart, thrill seekers and those more laidback. No matter what your preference may be, Fun Spot will have something to keep you entertained at an affordable price.

FUN SPOT GO-KARTS

TRACKS

Fun Spot USA on a Sunday night, It was an AWESOME!!!!!. I am always busy with work and school, it definitely has me a little stressed with assignments due at school and goals to be met at work. It can sure get pretty stressful for anyone with a busy lifestyle in sunny Florida. As a student I have to watch my cash because of the tight budget most students have to guide their expenses by. Fortunately Work had a Fun Day at the Attractions, and it couldn't have come at a better time. I simply needed a break from the everyday routine.

So last Sunday that stress reliever came, as an exciting night of competitive Go-Kart racing at Fun Spot USA in Kissimmee. As my long work week came to an end around 5:00 pm Sunday afternoon. I was on my way to Fun Spot, working in the Kissimmee area it was a short trip for me; took me around 7 minutes. To get to it and park. They have such a big parking lot that there is no need to stress over where to park. So finally on the ground, met up with some family and friends. The adventure was finally on the way. We started out with the "Road Course" track; it was so excited to begin the race. Once strapped into my totally awesome speed machine, the coordinator gave us the instructions and rules. It is such an incredible feeling when you rev the small yet powerful engine, just gives me the chills thinking back to it, So amazing. As he gave us the green light to begin our race all, we let go of our breaks and our exciting race was underway. The race was fun yet competitive, it was a great time watching everyone being so competitive taking the sharp corners going so fast and yet not spinning out or going into the wall. Unfortunately I did not finish in first place, but my day was just starting out.

We decided to go on the "Slick Track", this was by far the best track, and you could actually drift. I had been told about this track, but it just sounded too good to be true; "a track where you could drift?" I asked myself, "nah that's not possible they wouldn't have such cools rides here, for the money we paid for the armbands, that's not enough for them to afford a drift track." Boy was I wrong. This place was able to provide super affordable pricing and still manage to provide us with a drift track. This was simply perfect. Once strapped in for my second track of the day. I was ready! finally do some drifting, I was there yet could not believe it. We were given our instructions and the light turned green, the first turn was disappointing because no drifting action, but little did I know, I was just going to slow. By the second turn I almost went into the wall, lol. What a thrill, I was actually drifting now. It was so exciting being behind the wheel of a drifting go-kart. This was the best of the best. I was taking these turns and just getting some sweet drifting action from this little go-kart. I was able to move up from 4Th to 1st in a couple of turns. This was amazing. I would look back at my sister and friends and would just have so much fun.

It came to a point where I actually bumped one of my buddies, and it put me to the wall. I remember thinking "oh man, am I in trouble?", but no, the coordinator simply helped me get straightened up and I was on my way. They do ask that you don't bump each other while on the go-karts; however sometimes is just inevitable. When you bump someone on the turns it normally just slows them down. The coordinator does have the ability to shut off the go-karts from his post if one of the karts is flipped around. So it avoids any real danger. Some of my friends did get hurt, emotionally that is lol. After I ended up in 1st place, they were a little emotional, but it is just part of the game, you lose some and you win some.

They also had “The Vortex”. This track was so amazing; it takes you into a curly way up to the top of the track. And it feels like you become airborne at the top. The way down is simply too much fun. You are going so fast, that you can barely see the fans cheering for you. This track is by far the fastest there. Their last track was definitely the longest. If you are a great driver, you will come in first every time in this track. You must take corners properly and know when to pass or when to stay back. The real drivers stand out in this one.

Fun spot you must be safe, if they see that you are not driving very safely, they will mark your wristband and you won’t be allowed to ride the go-karts anymore. I loved my time out there and will do it again as soon as possible.

Sesame Street returning to Busch Gardens

Sunny, Funny Days are here again

A kid-friendly coaster and sunny, funny water play are just some fo the family adventures coming in Spring 2010

Rides and Attractions Safari of Fun at Busch Gardens

Air Grover
Soar with Grover on his plane through the Sahara a junior coaster fullof fun turns, mini-dives and plenty of laaughter.

The Count's Zambezi Rally
Join The Count at this kid-size car ride that takes you on a jaunt through our desert and tribal trails - and all at your own speed

Zoe-Petra & the Hippos of the Nile
A splashy fun flume ride with Zoe's hippo friends tat gives you a river-side glimpse of Africa - gyramids included

Snuffy's Elephant Romp
Fly around and around and up and down on Snuffy's fun friends

Elmo's Safari go-Round
Sit atop a frindly lion, zebra or buffalo for a spin on this tribal - inspirted carousel with Elmo and his friends

Rosita's Djembe Fly-away
Take a swing ride through the jungle with Rosita that sends you whirling above the African canopy.

Big Bird's Whirly Birdie
it's funny side up on Big Bird's delightfully playful ferris wheel ride. An egg-celent ride for the small ones.

Telly's Jungle Jam
join telly to explore sound, shapes and shadows in this naturally engaging play area for kids of All abilities.

Elmo's Treehouse Trek
Explore Elmo's 3 -storyhideaway to play hide-n-seek, discover new levels of funa nd get a bird's eye view of our entire African play land

Cookie Monster's canopy crawl
join Cookie Monster ona a quest for...fun- as you climb, crawl and explore on this 3-story net climb.

Slimey's Sawara Sand
join slimey at his fun-filled, sand-filled beachy aosis . it's a place for dids to frolic and paretns to relax in the coolest desert around

Oscar's Swamp Stomp
Get your feet - and friends - wet as you stomp, splash , play in Oscar's delightfully cool water play area.

Bert & Ernie's watering Hole
Turn the kids los in Bert and Ernie's wildly fun water adventure filled with bublleers, gyers, juets, dumping buckets and more.

Big Bird's 123-Smile With Me
All your favorite Sesame Street Friends are here to meet and greet , share a laugh, a hub - and a photo

Sonny Day theater
Go deep into our african land as tales of adventure come to life with the help of your Semsame Street Friends - right before your very eyes.

Dine with your Sesame Street Friends
Share an unforgettable meal with Big Bird, Elmo and friends at Sesame Street Safari of Fun


Explore Busch Gardens

German shipyard begins building Disney Dream

The much anticipated Keel Laying of the Disney Dream ship begins in Germany.

As the construction of the new Disney Dream Ship begins to take place at the Meyer Werft ship yard Papenburg, Germany, scores of people observe as the first block of the ship is christened.

At this very special occasion, Karl Holz, President of Disney Cruise line speaks at the beginning of the Keel Laying:

"As the first block is lowered into place, a special coin is placed under the Keel of the ship for good fortune during upcoming seafaring adventures."

Disney selected a very talented member of the Disney crew, Captain Tom Forberg, who was given the honors of placing the Dream coin on the Keel.

Forberg, the first crew member hired to participate in the launch of the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder, has a distinguished maritime career aboard Disney Cruise Line,

Forberg was named as the future Master of the Disney Dream.

We are witnessing months of planning and preparation coming together and now we have reached a significant point that is allowing this amazing ship to begin to take shape said Karl Holz.

Finally the ships sections are coming together to fulfill a dream that many have waited for. Boasting double capacity of Disney's cruise Lines, this ship will be the most innovative and unique ships ever built afloat The Dream will be an escape for family's to begin exploring their dreams to come true said Karl Holz

With both of these new floating wonders, Disney will bring the Disney Experience to more people than ever before more place around the world

Families will now be able to visit destinations that were not possible prior to the construction of these cruise liners that they only dreamed of

So now let the Disney Dream begin..

Hotels desperate to entice tourists

In a landmark move to attract a larger clientel, hoteliers have slashed prices in a race to reach the bottom. The old axiom, "you get what you pay for" may not be true in today's climate after this watershed decrease in hotel rooms.

Falling to pre-9/11 volumes, high-end hotels are slashing prices to the bone. Imagine staying at a Crowne Plaza for just $10-a-night over the weekend. The Red Roof Inn has even offered eye-popping rates as low as 1¢ near the County Convention Center.

Experts are concerned with resorts like Marriot World Resort near Disney World that would make deep discounts as low as 25% on room rates. Recouperating rates at such low discounts not only will hurt to market but require several years to recover.

Some hotels have cut their rates as low as 10-12% like the Best Western in Kissimmee in deperation to grab some business from Disney World. After 9-11 attacks on the World Trade center, it took the market nearly four years to recoup the 11% rate losses.

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament Schedule

Be transported to the 11th century, to a far away place where gallant knights fight for the honor of the king. Your invited to join King Philippe and princess Leonore for a royal banquet in the celebration arena.

As guests arrive, a sumptuous feast is being prepared for a night of chivlry, honor, romance, and victory. Cheer on your favorite night as the palace wenches serve a four-course meal consisting of garlic bread, roasted chicken, tomato bisque soup, herb-basted potatoes, spare rib, pastry of the Castle, coffee and two rounds of select beverages.

Vegetarian meals are available upon request.

NBC Universal Orlando

Universal is announcing gate price increases Effective Tuesday August 25, 2009

Effective Tuesday, August 25, 09 the retail price for the 1-Day/2-Park Ticket will change at the front gates of Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure. The upgrade value of all 1-Day 2-Park tickets will be adjusted to reflect these new rates.

1-Day/2-Park Ticket

Currently the ticket is $94.99/Adult & $84.99/Child. The ticket will be $99.99/Adult & $89.99/Child (with tax: $106.49/Adult & $95.84/Child).

This change will affect the gate price only.

Universal Dubai stalls in the sand

Dubai, a part of the United Emirates, has a long history of domestic oil production which drastically changed after the Persian Gulf War in 1990. The etymology of the word Emirate means a dignified royal prince or political office of the Arab nation.

Tourism representing the largest part of it's gross domestic product, is built also upon oil, natural gas, real estate, trade, financial services and construction. After the Gulf War, the economy tanked causing large withdrawals from banks due to instability in the region.

Free zones in Dubai quickly developed after the Persian Gulf War producing trading communities, Maritime City, Media City, and Internet City. As oil prices continued to increase, Dubai continued to focus on tourism generating a gross domestic product of nearly $37 billion propping up Dubai society.

As oil production diminishes and is expected to exhaust in 20 years, Dubai quickly has become a tourist magnet through-out the free world attracting the attention of resorts like Legoland and Universal Studios.

Some of the tallest hotels in the world are found at Dubai. While private real estate investments increase, residential projects are popping up everywhere. Substantial increase in the cost of living has occurred by rising inflation as Dubai's skyline continued to be marked by massive construction.

At one point, Emirates had a vision to convert a large sandy area to the east into a into a theme park called Dubailand. Just before the global economic depression, Dubai began to build the biggest most extravagant entertainment venue ever seen.

As the recession deepened, Universal Studios Hollywood thrill-rides construction sat empty and deserted in Dubai's sandy dunes. Dubailand would be double the size of Disney World Orlando with huge shopping centers, sprawling golf courses, and world-class resorts.

Inicially, Emirates had a vision to attract some 15 million visitors in several years. But today, real estate officials seem to think that Dubailand having begun with great momentum, now is hard to sell to cash-strapped tourists.

The vision required nearly one hundred miles of desert that would house Universal Studios, Legoland, Six Flags, Tiger Woods golf course, race track, and much more. With the intention that Emirates wealth would prop-up the Arab economy, the project became to big, too fast.

Much of the projects plans have been stalled that would have included enclosed animals, rides, restaurants, snow-park and outlet malls. New target dates have been set by Dubai's official developer Tatweer for 2012 who insists that the projects are on track.

Hopefully, Dubai's officails will step back and attempt to inplement their lofty plans a bit slower in the months to come.

I went on a Discovery Cove non-swim last Saturday with some friends and family, I wish we would of been smart and went early morning. We went at lunch timw, which was our plan as all food and drinks are included with admission. I had the salmon for lunch...Fantasic!! it was moist cooked through and the seasonings were spot on. After lunch we chatted about which adventure we'd go on first.. my brother didn't want to go anywhere near any creatures so we chose the Lazy river..Take a floatation device (pool noodle) with you as the depth of the lazy river does change throughout the course. As you float along watch out for the waterfalls..try to miss them...good luck...I couldn,t do it. after several trips around my brother felt brave and wanted to try snorkelling with the tropical fish!! It was the BEST!! we spent the final hours wishing we'd of began our time in snorkelling..Bro lost his fear of the fish immediately. I almost swallowed my snorkel when i saw the maco sharks!!! Glad to find out they were behind plexiglass!! The steel drums playing next to the restaurant during lunch was very entertaing the members of the band we very amusing and easl to chat with. All in all it was worth every penny.

A Night at Funspot

This past weekend i went to Kissimmee, Florida's own Funspot attraction. It was a thrill of a lifetime. I've never seen a place with so many go cart tracks and amusement rides for such a low rate. A simple rate of about 30 dollars can you get you unlimited access to all these thrills for the whole night, and the best part is Funspot is usually open to 2 or 3 in the morning so you can play late. Funsot is an area by Old Town located in Kissimmee right next to mile marker 8. It is sitting on the property which Old Town used to own. Now it hosts some of the fastest rides and carts that Orlando has ever seen, and not to mention the world's tallest sky coaster sitting at over 330 feet high which makes the thrill of alifetime. While at Funspot i got a chance to ride all of the differnt go cart tracks that they had to offer and i was astounded. They have one track that you can actually drift on. They spray the track down with water which allows you to slide easily through the corners while you're racing your opponents. It really is a good time there. It is a smaller track but very high pace due to all of your competitors being crowded in a smaller area. I also went on the blue track which goes 4 stories up and swirls around at the same time. This track was the best in my book. You hit the highest speeds and the best turns for a go cart track that i have ever seen. And this isn't a cheesy carnival track either, you can tell this track was buil for speed "a real racer's raceway" if i do say myself. I was bumpin everyone i saw around in their car. I was flying on this track and once you reached the top of the 4th floor you started your decent to the bottom-this is where you caught the most speed at hands down. You'd come flying down to the bottom at hight speeds you wouldn't imagine a little go cart would be capable of then you'd have to take a quick turn to your right and hope you don't slide into the wall. It was one of the best rides i've been easily worth 30 dollars to ride all night.

My Next favorite ride was the slalom course. It was a go cart track about a quarter mile around and it swivels back and forth like a formula 1 race track and gives you th real "white knuckle" racing feel and mentality of doing anything you can to win, whether it be to spin a young kid out a bump an old lady to get by her. This track was the best way to test your skills and to "put up or shut up" if you're one to talk alot about how "good" you are at racing. Me and my buddies had a blast on this track seeing who the real Michael Andretti was.

There are many tracks there to experience for your self. Words can't explain how much fun I had at Funspot. Make sure to ride all the tracks when you get there, there is virtually no lines on any of the rides. You can usually just walk right up and hop in the drivers seat in go. From time to time you'll have to wait for those riding the track to finish their race, but that's usually the extent of your waiting time. 4 to 5 minutes maximum. Ride height requirements usually aren't a problem either. You can use one of the helmets on the rides if you wish, but they do not make you if you choose not to. The whole place there is really rexlaxed and the workers are friendly and if you ever spin out on the track then they'll gladly help ya get turned around. And if you have friends like me, they'll do alot of turning ya around.

The funnest thing I did at Funspot had to be the skycoaster thought. It was a 330 foot drop straight down then you swing out a hundred yards or so. It is the tallest free standing bungee system in the world, and it's no joke either. To ride it you're lookin at 40 dollars, but if you talk to the workers you'll be able to get a 30 or 25 dollar ride out of them if they're feeling nice that day, it all depends. But once you get hoisted into this beast there is no turning back and the only way off is pulling the cord, YES! you pull your own cord releasing you from above 330 ft of nothing but air. It is a very scary sight, so don't be scared to scream, everyone does it!

All in all Funspot was one of the best theme parks I've been to, and being a Florida resident here I have been to all the major theme parks and for the money this is definitely the best one to go to. So if you're ever in town and lookin for somewhere really fun to go just for a few hours or to spend the whole day at, this is your place! Don't let the pricetag fool you, Funspot is ranked right up there with Disney and Universal easily, and in my opinion is even better.

JAWS at Universal Studios

Though I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve been on Jaws it’s still been my favorite ride since I was a kid. I recently went to Universal Studios to check out the new Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit and could not leave without getting on the Jaws ride. My favorite thing about the Jaws ride is the great photo opportunity you get to take with the massive replica of the 25 foot 3 ton shark, which is always swarmed with a species of humans we Floridians like to call ‘tourists’ who always seem to come up with the goofiest poses – which can get pretty entertaining. The best part of the Line at Jaws is that it’s shaded and beautifully decorated and there is a short video going on which is pretty funny if you pay attention to it. When entering the boat you can see some water on the seat and people’s faces start to change, but as long as you sit in the middle you won’t feel more than a mist. The ride makes you feel like you are going on a tour and as you begin to make it around a lighthouse you hear a distress call on the radio and see a ship sinking in the water. The skipper is confused about what is going on and as soon as he begins to think large grey dorsal fins submerge out of the water, that’s when the shark makes his first appearance, it’s also when the skipper makes his first shot, and his second and misses twice. You then head into a boathouse as the only light is the skippers flash light and all of a sudden boats start to fall into the water so you are guided out. This begins my favorite part, as you are guided out you pass several oil tanks, and electricity lines the skipper shoots (and misses) again but this time he hits the Oil tanks causing a huge explosion where you feel the heat of the flames on your entire body. The shark becomes more aggressive and rocks the boat, and finally biting an electrical wire and electrocuting itself then exposing it’s burned face to the boat as the shooter shoots it once (and once again) to make sure it’s dead. You then sail back to the dock and go on with your life. Again, even though this has probably been the millionth time I’ve been on JAWS and basically lipped every word that was said by the skipper it is my all time favorite ride at Universal Studios.

No home-run films from Disney

Disney is not thrilled about the recent movie "UP" because it's not the type of film that will splash across all of its entertainment properties. Recently, Pixar Animation Studios has not been able to produce a hit film like Toy Story and Cars.

It may be a long time before Fredricksen's gang of characters are given a larger stage across Disney's sprawling parks. Many Disney executives do not foresee this film becoming a larger-than-life hit generating sell able products at it's franchises.

Transporting this film from Pixar to theme parks will be a challenging task according to Disney's CEO Robert Iger. The star film up does not lend itself to action figures, face cars, tee-shirts, toys and other merchandise.

Disney needed a home-run film to offset the steep drops in consumer spending across it's brands. Some analysts believe that the value in Pixar's latest film does not truly represent the typical power-house films that bring to life the film's characters.

Disney needs fully-featured films that will generate sequels producing long lines at the box office. One of the real franchise films like Toy Story 3 which has been critically successful will produce characters that lend to successful marketing.

Feature films that are commercially successful and valuable franchises lend themselves easier to toy licensing and video games. Perhaps some of the more resent films have not had a fair opportunity to develop a greater awareness in theme parks due to the current economic depression.

Successful films like Finding Nemo, spawned attractions including musicals, aquarium rides, various productions at both Epcot and Disneyland Burbank California. Likewise, the animatronic figure Remy debuted in French restaurants at Epcot including other films in the USA.

Often a typical marker that denotes the success of a film is the abundance of souvenir pins that can be discovered across different marketing platforms. Perhaps a plethora of projects exists for the recent films inside of Pixar Animation Studios that are only a basic sketch at this point but are just waiting for the right door of opportunity.

Many variables are involved in bringing these projects to fruition including park location, timing, age group, atmosphere, and world's economic health.

After all of the hype from Universal’s new roller coaster I knew I had to go and check it out for myself. Right when you walk into the entrance of the park you can see it sitting there in all of its red roller coaster glory. I knew this would be a good one. As you get closer to the ride itself you can hear the music blaring and the people on the coaster screaming at the top of their lungs. We stood in line and waited for our turn to get on the ride.

My heart was pumping and I could feel the butterflies in my stomach as I walked closer to the ride. We were sectioned off by row and we took our seats onto the coaster. The seats were different than any other roller coaster I have ever been on. The seats had all different flashing lights and they had speakers that wrapped around the back of the seats. I sat down and they put the lap bar down. Not only do you get to listen to your favorite soundtrack but also on the lap belt there is a touch screen where you can control what you are listening to. It was the coolest thing I have ever seen on a roller coaster.

This ride does not wait to get the action started. Right out of the gate you are sitting 90 degrees looking STRAIGHT up at the sky. Once you reach the top you have a huge drop almost straight down. I could feel my stomach drop and we were weightless for a little bit. Right from there we built up speed and went straight into a cork screw flip. After that I thought the ride would soon be over, but oh no. Right after that you go into another big drop and roll THROUGH A BUILDING. That’s right through a building. We hit this hard right turn and then right into another flip. With all of that speed built up we hit another turn and ended up right over the people that were in line (You get a great view of the entire park from here). You take a turn over City Walk and then you are right back to where you started.

My hair was all messed up (as was everyone else’s) and I quickly got off the ride. That was one of the best roller coasters I have ever been on. I quickly grabbed my things and hoped right back in line so I could hit it a second time. This is a ride that you will not want to miss.
-BrocklesBee

Hollywood Rip-Rocket Ride Now Open

Industry experts were stunned when Universal announced the official opening of Hollywood Rip-Rocket Ride after a short soft opening Wednesday. Just after a brief debut of the $45 million ride, universal decided to open the ride.

Three months behind schedule, this highly anticipated roller coaster is one of the most technologically advanced attractions in the state. At speeds exceeding 60 mph, passengers can select a variety of soundtracks to listen to during the 90 minute excursion.

Population drops in Florida

The population increase after sixty years has ended due to economic factors. Over 50,000 residents may have moved to higher ground from 2007. This is the second mass exodus from Florida since WWII in 1946 when military personnel began leaving the state in large numbers.

It appears that migration to Florida may be reversing with it's estimated 18.7 million people. There are many factors that may be responsible for this trend including unemployment, recession, hurricanes, low benefits and a slow job market.

Even though roughly $14 million of federal funds has been granted to Osceola County in an effort to stabilized the neighborhood, people continue to start grass roots elsewhere.

According to analysts, the biggest factor that has sent people packing, is the lack of work. For now, the mass exportation from New York for the last 60 years is over in as much as people are unable to sell their homes.

Since the highest record of unemployment was set in 1975, unemployment in Florida is a staggering 10.6% according to sources. Today, there is no incentive to be established in Florida. Likewise, declining schools attendance has followed the curve as Miami-Dade counties report substantial losses on the order of tens of thousands.

It seems that state educators were bracing for a smaller Florida with the trend of smaller classrooms.

Inventories of empty homes has always been the measure of the health of the economy in Florida. Some Florida researches want to believe that the recession's downward curve has reached the virtual bottom.

Since there is little diversity other than the hospitality sector, Florida's total dependency on tourism is devastating to state revenues. For some, this might be the best time to diversify your portfolio by making a career change.

Cast member dies at Disney World

Performed several times a day is the stunt spectacular Indiana Jones Epic. It is a show at Disney's Hollywood Studios based on the movie, Raiders Of The Lost Ark. Indian Jones features pyrotechnic devices, various stunts, and the integration of the Amiga computer used to controlled events.

One of Disney's best spectaculars is produced by George Lucas, and directed by Jerry Rees. To provide a more interactive experience, guests are selected to participate in the final scenes.

In the original epic movie, the action begins in a Peruvian temple where Indy attempts to overcome certain perils including false floors, ancient booby traps, and mortal spikes as makes a getaway with a golden idol.

Similar stunts were being performed by Anislav Varbanov, a Disney cast member when he fatally was injured in a tumble roll on Monday evening. This is the third injury in 7weeks that was sustained by a cast member.

Since 1989, Disney has been performing this epic with virtually minimal injuries. During that time some occupational safety fines have been imposed upon Disney for equipment failure. These include a malfunctioning trap door, a ladder collapse, a faulty restraining cable and a lack of adequate padding or equipment protection.

Being rushed to the hospital after 7:34 p.m., it was determined that Varbanov had suffered a head injury. Unable to resuscitate him, Florida Hospital Celebration Health pronounced him dead at 8:53 p.m. according to a police report.

Company Day at Funspot USA.

Funspot USA in Kissimmee is great for a large outing of family and friends. I mention this because a little while ago some of my fellow co-workers went there for a company outing of sorts to relax have a little bit of fun tearing up the go kart tracks. The park is rather large being over 5 acres but it is still small enough to be able to do your own thing and still bump into your friends or family in the ques at the tracks. When you're driving the karts and racing against people you know, it is a lot more fun then racing against just random people. When you're with friends and bumping (which technically is not allowed) and trying to race pass their kart, it gets more intense then if it was just a person you were standing in line with. The Slick Track is the best place for this, it is a small oval but they spray it with water so that one of the turns you drift around. That turn is were things get crazy people not able to handle the turn slide out to a stop, people behind them hit the first person so everyone else stops and then you do it all over again. Believe it or not the track is the easiest to pass on even though it is the smallest track at the park.

The other flat track that is a lot of fun is the Road Course. This track seems to take a lot more driving skill to get around the turns and pass people then you may be able to imagine, you go into it thinking "hey its a go kart track not an Indy car, how hard can it be?" When you start driving you and get into that first sharp turn your mindset changes, you start to feel like you are a professional race car driver flying around turns using outside, inside, outside turning patterns. Being with friends increases this feeling and it makes it all the better. The multi-level tracks are fun as well but they really aren't for racing people or trying to see who is the better driver, they are more for the thrill of the steep hills and banked turns. The Chaos has a couple of hills that you climb and the catch an extra burst of speed on the way down. This track is fun to watch your friends fly around when your right behind them. The Vortex is the track for the banked turn you climb up a circular incline to get to the top which is about 4 stories tall. Then you race around the worlds steepest bank of 32 degrees which is steeper than at the Daytona International Speedway. then down a small decline to do it all over again. This track is a great thrill track. Once again watching your friends faces as they fly down the first decline is hilarious. Yet sometimes you have to watch out for any of your particularly aggressive driving friends when your coming in to the pits when your race is over because you may get a "little nudge" from behind. Running into to your friends on and off the track makes a group outing a must.

Watching people go on the rides like the the Hot Seat which is a pneumatically powered swings that catapult you higher than you ever thought possible when you were a little kid on the elementary school playground. When watching your friends on that ride you see other sides of them come out. For example one of your male co-workers screaming like a 14 year old girl at a Hannah Montana concert. They have other thrill rides that are fun to go on that are kind of kiddish but they take you back to your childhood and it makes for a good time. The arcade in the Full Speed area is a lot of fun if you like wining tickets to get that 2000 ticket RC car that you always dreamed of this is where you go. It is a little small because the glow in the dark mini-golf and NASCAR simulators take up a lot of room, but still fun all the same. There are a ton of picture opportunities at Fun Spot USA with giant monster trucks and full size race cars all over the Full Speed area.

The Sky Coaster which is the tallest and most recognizable attraction at Fun Spot. If it so happens that you aren't brave enough to take on 300 foot behemoth of an attraction it is still fun to watch all the random strangers and you friends do the monster swing which is a mix between sky diving and bungee jumping. The park is just the right size for family fun and an escape from the ordinary mold of a theme park or just go to have a little fun with friends and family. Parking is not a problem at Fun Spot USA there are plenty of spaces and it is all FREE. So gather your family and friends and head out to Kissimmee to Fun Spot USA you will not regret it.

Universal's Hollywood Rip Rocket Ride

On Aug 16 I went on Hollywood Rip Ride Rocket. Around 6pm, I waited about an hour in the single rider line. They didn't have the express line yet so the regular line was even longer about a 120 min wait. While in line they had previews to the songs they had on the ride and how to operate the music controls on the ride. The type genres they had were rap/hip hop, classic rock/metal, pop/disco, country, and club electonica. When I finally got on it I picked the song "Stronger" by Kanye West, after that the ride accelerated and it climbed 90 degrees up the vertical lift and dropped down in a circle also called the double take, At this point I was scared. After that it did a treble clef which looks like a hurricane spin and a loop. Then it did a crowd surfer which you are flipped on your side and the Que is right beneath you. At the end it did a plot twist which is a big spin and up doing jump at the end. I believe it accelerated up to 65mph, felt like 75mph. When the ride was finished I was out of breath and sweating. When you exit they had your photo and a video while you were on the ride. In the picture, I looked blown away. Overall was the rocket is amazing and thrilling. The ride blew me away by its fast speed and spins. It had a wide variety of music selection to make your experience better so you could rock on while you ride. I would rate this ride a 10 because it was better then most roller coaster like the Manta. I would say it was really intense, and it is worth waiting 120 min for it.

Disney's Netbook for kids

With the Disney Netpal By ASUS, younger children ages 6-12 can continue to enjoy Disney magic now that Disney and ASUS teamed up to create their new Netbook Computer for kids. This netbook is designe for children that offers web-safe access and fun.

Like no other computer, this computer provides a one-of-a-kind engaging experience with parents in mind. This model has over 40 parental controls, 8.9in LCD display, kid-friendly software,Wi-Fi capabilities, XP Home operating system, Disney Applications and Widgets.

Fully featured Disney Characters and stunning graphics, parents have complete control over Disney-themed email in a Disney-themed browser. Two models will be available for both girls and boys in August.

This unit was specially designed by Disney's team of researchers, engineers, designers, inventors and product development experts.

The Netpal provides an intuitive visual interface, easy instructions, Disney Magic desktop, specifically tailored for kids. From the box to launching kid-friendly websites is simple. For easy access to applications, the Magic Desktop offers 2-D “gadget tray” displaying bold visual icons.

With a plethora of other kid-friendly features including a collection of 15 easily-accessible widgets, stopwatch, digital memo pad, and a calculator, this computer is a dream come true.

Specifications
Model
Disney Netpal by ASUS

Operating System
Genuine Windows® XP Home

Display
8.9” LED-backlit WSVGA screen (1024×600)

CPU
Intel® ATOM N270

WLAN
802.11 b/g/n

Memory
DDR2 SO-DIMM 1GB

Storage
160GB HDD
16GB SSD

Interface
1 x VGA port (D-sub 15-pin for external monitor)
3 x USB 2.0 ports
1 x LAN RJ-45
2 x audio jacks: Headphone / Mic-in
1 x VGA port (D-sub 15-pin for external monitor)
3 x USB 2.0 ports
1 x LAN RJ-45
2 x audio jacks: Headphone / Mic-in

Camera
0.3 M Pixel

Reader
MMC and SD (SDHC supported)

Audio
Hi-definition audio CODEC
Built-in stereo speakers
Analog Mic

Battery
4200mAh Polymer, 5hrs*

Dimensions
248mm (W) x 173mm (D) x 28.7mm (H)

Weight
1.2kg with battery
1kg with battery

Casing Colors
Princess Pink, Magic Blue

Busch Entertainment revenue drops

Seaworld, a place where both air & sea collide, a one-of-a-kind whimsical wet experience where guests can get up-close and personal with killer whales, continues to see slower business in the second quarter.

Busch Entertainment Corp's parent company A-B InBev, the world's largest brewer took over Seaworld in 2008. Since then, Busch Gardens theme parks including Discovery Cove, Aquatica, and Seaworld, second-quarter earnings were about $399 million, down from a year ago.

According to the reports reported by the Belgian beer brewery, sales dropped by 4.2% below $416 million operating sales the same time last year.

A-B InBev has goals of gaining $7 billion in divestitures during 2009 while they sold over $3 billion in assets.

Brooke Shields meets Shamu

Brooke Shields, the famous American actress known for classic movies such as The Blue Lagoon, Pretty Baby, The Muppet Show, ABC's Fridays, Saturday NIght Live and various other TV shows made a VIP debut to Seaworld.

Taking some time off from her busy schedule, Hollywood's Diva and her husband were given VIP access to the theme parks. With here daughter Rowan, Grier, the whole family got to meet Shamu & friends on Tuesday.

Out of all the various species under the sea characters, the actress says her favorites are penguins and dolphins. Actually the highlight of the day was to feed the big guy himself, Shamu.

According to Seaworld spokeswomen Lauren Skowyra, Brooke & family had a whale of a time getting close up and personal with the parks underwater residents.

Take you next Orlando vacation in a Chevy Volt

Hitting the GM showroom in 2010 will be the first American-made electric car.

For the first time ever, General Motors Corp car manufacturer has good some news for American tourists travelling to Orlando next year. For just a sticker price of $40,000, travelers can drive a new Chevy Volt which GM estimates will achieve a whopping 230 mpg!!

With details yet to come, it's not clear how the new electric hybrid will achieve this kind of gas mileage. If the Volt travels exclusively in the City with a charge every 40 miles, theoretically the company touted 230 mpg. When the 40 miles has elapsed, a small internal combustion engine activates to recharge the battery pack.

Even with the steep sticker price, you can't beat triple digit economy for the price.
Imagine, the economy would be about 4-times more than the current champion Toyota Prius hybrid sold in the U.S. Vehicles powered by other than a combustion engine are increasing day-by-day.

With a 40-mile range, the Volt is powered by a industrial battery-pack that only requires a easy home outlet plug-in for recharging the batteries. Toyota Prius starts at $22,000 and achieves about 51 mpg.

Toyota's rival Nissan also debuted it's first electric car, The leaf selling for a comparable price. Chevy Volt will give these other hybrids a run for their money.

As long as one drives sensibly with average cargo, the Chevy Volt can travel 40 miles before it's next charge achieving 230 mpg. As soon as the vehicle travels over 40 miles, a small combustion engine engages providing electricy to power the motor for additional 300 miles. At that point, the Volt's gas mileage will probably drop below 100 mpg.

Another version of the electric car is the Tesla Roadster which renders approximately 224 miles also available in the U.S. Sticker price, $100,000, quite out of reach for the average income.

Good news, GM is working on lower priced family version of the Sadan for the average pocket book.

Steven Spielberg buyout top priority

According to filings, Mr. Spielberg has received nearly $90 million in revenues from Universal Orlando for his consulting work. Recently, we disclosed that Spielberg has a 22 year-old contract that allows him to receive revenue from Universal in perpetuity.

Spielburg's role has been to help design new attractions at the Universal Studios Florida including Jurassic Park Adventure, Men in Black, and other movie hits. Ongoing negotiations for a potential lucrative buyout seems to be top priority to end the contract with Spielberg. His fair market stake in Universal could be worth several hundred million dollars.

It is expedient for Universal to renegotiate Spielberg's contract because of the parks inability to refinance loans totalling $950 million. Payments for Spielbutg's consulting take priority over loan payments making it difficult to restructure hundreds of millions in debt.

There are speculations that Spielberg may need buyout money to fund a new movie studio. On July 18, an announcement was made regarding a partnership between Disney, Reliance Big Entertainment, JP Morgan, and Spielberg that would invest $825 million into new box office hits. Since the relationship was broken with Viacom's Paramount pictures, Dreamworks studios has not produced a single movie in 2008.

In a phone conversation with Reliance Big Entertainment’s CEO, the deal is not final. Since the company agree to match Spielberg's fundraising of $325 million, the amount of funding could increase. It was stated that Mr. Ambani will laid down $325 million, JP Morgan $325 million, and Disney $150 million. Disney will have worldwide distribution rights and Reliance will own all domestic rights.

Spielberg could use his buyout from Universal as part of the money he will raise. According to close discussion with Spielberg, he is able to exercise his buyout clause as early as June of 2010. Although Universal reported a profit for the 3rd quarter, Universal combined with holding companies only have some $51 million available in their accounts.

Nights of Joy 2009

Get ready for high-octane thrills coming to Walt Disney World Resort on Sept 11-12, 2009.

Get ready to rock the night when nineteen of the most phenomenal acts and most powerful voices in contemporary Christian music take the stage. Immerse yourself in an atmosphere of rhythms that grove you, and sounds that move your while you rock mic at Disney's Hollywood Studios.

That's not all, check out this Night of Joy Bonus; between shows, guests can rally their friends and check some awesome one-of-a-kind attractions including The American Idol Experience, plus classics like Rock 'n Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith and world-renown The Twilight Zone tower of Terror.

Friday Sept. 11	Genre
Chris Tomlin	AC
P.O.D.	Rock
Kutless	Rock
NewsBoys	AC
Leeland	Rock
Superchick	Rock
NeedtoBreathe	Rock
Francesca Battistelli	Pop
Josh Wilson	AC
Above the Golden State	Rock
Abandon	Rock

Friday Sept. 12	Genre
Skillet	Rock
MercyMe	AC
Jars of Clay	AC
Flyleaf	Rock
Mandisa	Mandisa Gospel
Family Force5	Rock
Grits	Hip-Hop
Revive	Rock
Josh Wilson	AC
Above the Golden State	Rock
Abandon	Rock

It's going to be an evening.. or two, that you'll never forget. It's a Night of Joy, now rock-it Disney style at Hollywood Studios.

Universal's park attendance down

Amidst the deep global recession, parks like Universal Orlando had to cut operating costs to be profitable while attendance continued to decline for the 2nd straight quarter. Earlier this year, Universal terminated at least 70 middle management employees to cut operating costs.

Rolling out the one-of-a-kind Hollywood Rip Rocket Ride was suppose to be the trump card to help prop-up attendance but Universal still does not have a date. But slashing operating costs some 17% saved the day allowing Universal to continue to make a profit.

As the #2 theme park in Orlando, attendance dropped from 2.9 to 2.5 million visitors nearly 14% from a year ago while sales fell to $242 million or 11%.

While Universals COO Bill Davis believes that the park offers a valuable experience, much of the 30% profit came from deep cost-cutting initiatives company-wide.

Universal was not the only park to be affected by the depression but last week Disney announced a 19% drop in operating profits down to $521 million. Unlike Disney, Universals unique marketing schemes enticed customers to spend more at Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios reflecting an increase of 3% for the second quarter.

It was the same pattern across all the major theme parks, people that had booked long term vacations did not cancel but just spent less on food and merchandise. Universal experienced double digit declines in attendance across it's two theme parks.

Having opened the Hollywood Rip Rocket Ride may have stimulated attendance but Universal still has high hopes on the Wizarding World of Harry Potter planned to be rolled out in 2010.

Disney assumes Citi loans

During one of the worst economic declines since Disney's Magic Kingdom park opened in 1971, seven percent of time-share owners have been defaulting on loans mortgaged by Citigroup.

In an effort to preserve relationships with quality customers that foreclosed, Disney has elected to assume asset-backed-securities from Citigroup so that it could manage foreclosure proceedings. Disney's large coffers have enabled it to assume more than $200 million in liability from colossal bank Citigroup.

Since Citigroup has no real interest in time-shares, Disney has reacquired vacation Club liability avoiding a 3rd party from underselling the market at Celebration. An approximated $40 million in sales profit from these time-shares was generated by the Vacation Club in 2008.

Securitization, a lucrative business for the Celebration based Disney Vacation Club, requires bundling time-share mortgages and issuing them to buyers. Unfortunately, Citigroup's woes in 2008 prevented the purchase of these securities due to the credit market.

In the eventuality of foreclosure, Disney assumed up to 18% of the principle in it's agreement with Citygroup representing roughly $76 million in value. As defaulted loans have risen to 8%, the burden on Disney has diminished it's ability to reacquire loans in foreclosure. According to industry-wide statistics, defaults have increased to 31% in the 1st quarter of 2009.

Question remains how long Disney can continue to assure top-quality service to the Vacation Club members without risk of being cash-strapped.

Disney intergrates Toy Story Mania with wireless technology

Join your favorite Toy Story friends as you are transported to a larger-than-life 3-D world powered by a whole new integrated experience. Aboard the carnival-themed tram, you'll be zipped along a gallery of midway-style entertainment created by Disney·Pixar Toy Story films.

For the first time ever, Hollywood Studios has integrated the ride with 802.11 technology that powers the ride. Since the ride has been so successful, Disney has plans to open another ride in Tokyo Disneyland resort.

A challenging experience for the entire family, be greeted by the boardwalk banker Mr. Potato Head who speaks more Audio-Animatronics lines than any of his predecessors. Mr Potato Head will keep the gang busy while the train prepares to take you to Andy's room.

Guests will don 3-D glasses in order to view the 3-D images of Toy Story Mania characters. Get cheered on by your favorite characters Woody, Judy, Rex, and Buzz as they give you helpful hints in five classic carnival games. Games include Darts to burst balloons, Rings to capture little green aliens, Eggs to splatter across, barnyard targets, and Baseballs to break plates.

A sprawling network of 154 workstations power Toy Story Mania using the famous operating systems Windows XP. Each train that houses a real-time gaming system receives Toy Story images while communicating with the other trains using 802.11 technology.

Data is gathered by the workstations including the position of the train, rotation, and angle in order to shoot the gaming projectiles from the guns. The integrated wireless technology keeps the pies & rings projectiles coordinated with the position of the train.

Disney Imaginners were concerned whether industrial wireless technology 802.11 had enough bandwidth to carry an immense amount of data without lag. The key to success was loading the network with predictable data throughput and then evaluating the outcome which would be consistent every time.

Since 802.11 industrial wireless technology is secure and proven, many other attractions will be retrofitted in the future. Disney hopes that the new integration technology will take park attractions to a new dimension.

In the future, guests experience will be enhanced as more rides are integrated with wireless technologies.

Disney increases price on annual pass

According to fans, no place on earth can excite children like Walt Disney theme parks. Disney World includes 4 popular theme parks, Epcot, Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios. It is truly a world of fantasy where fair tales come to life, a place where dreams really do come true.

Sometimes people are transported from the surreal to reality when Disney raises the price on it's annual pass on the heels of a rate hike on regular tickets.

Prices for annual passes increased over the weekend between 2.1% and 4.3% for the premium options. A seasonal pass for FLorida residents to the four major theme parks up 4.2 increased to $249 and child pass to $220 up 4.3%.

Annual passes, good for year-round access at Disney also were hiked up to $369 up 2. 9% while the kiddie pass is up to $325 up 2.8%. While annual passes increased for and adult to $489p 4.3%, the child price increase to $432 up 4.3%

let you imagination soar on your next trip to Disney World

Disney raises ticket prices

As we predicted last month, Disney raised ticket prices despite deep discounts to attract recession-strapped guests. Increases perhaps where not as dramatic as in previous years to the challenging economic climate.

Increases of 5.3% to one-day tickets on Sunday Aug 2nd, may reflect in part some attempt for Disney to recover it's 26% fallen profits over the last fiscal year.

Based on surveys, Disney boasted that the increase reflects good value that it provides to customers at it's theme parks. Starting last Sunday, the price of a one-day pass adult ticket increased by $4 to $79 plus tax while the price of a child's ticket up $5 to $68 plus tax.

In maintaining strategy to attract guests for extra days, Disney's multi-day park tickets experience the smaller increases starting at 2.6%. Historically, rivals Universal & Sea World Orlando have followed suit with their own price increases. But spokespeople from both Universal & Seaworld have indicated that that they have no plans for price increases for now.

Disney justified these increases indicating that over 90% of it's customers believe that the Disney brand offers a high quality experience. Ticket prices on it's popular one-day park hopper options increased to $52. Likewise it's one-day water park fun & more option including Disney Quest increased 3.8% to $52.

According to analysts, Disney's popular five-park hopper adult ticket increased 2.9% to $280 plus tax and $247 plus tax. Statistically, these are the smallest increases for a 5-day hopper pass compared to increases of 4.6% same time last year.