On January 21, 2010, Merlin Entertainment announced big plans for the Winter Garden, Florida region - a new theme park! Joining the ranks of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando and SeaWorld will soon be Legoland Florida.
Merlin Entertainment has purchased Cypress Gardens, and plans to open Legoland Florida on the site by the end of 2011. This will be a 145-acre theme park that will be fully renovated and redesigned, and then expanded over the next several years - probably to include resort hotel accommodations.
Legoland Florida is targeted to kids, between the ages of two and 12, and like its sister park in San Diego, California, will provide at least one full day's worth of entertainment once it opens. Currently, there are four other Legoland Parks in the world, all of which have become very successful catering to kids and their families.
The new Florida park will be located about 30 minutes from Orlando, and will initially feature more than 50 rides, shows and attractions, plus the life-size Lego models that these theme parks are famous for. (The theme parks are based around the Lego building blocks which are so popular amongst kids.)
There's already so much for kids to do in the Orlando area, and later this year, Universal Orlando's Islands of Adventure will be opening The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which is probably the most anticipated theme park attraction ever created. The Legoland Florida park will cater to a slightly younger audience, and will no doubt, quickly become a popular day trip for families visiting the Orlando area.
Currently, within the Walt Disney World Resort, there's a Lego Store open within the Downtown Disney area. It features a handful of life-size Lego models, a Lego activity center, plus a chance to purchase the most popular Lego toy products.
Last week, I had the pleasure of visiting Miami, Florida. While gathering content for my upcoming travel guide, Thomas Cook Florida Hotspots, Iexperienced many of the attractions, resorts, restaurants and activities that this incredible city has to offer.
Two of the highlights of the week were my visits to Miami MetroZoo and Jungle Island. In a nutshell, these two zoos are amongst the very best and most impressive in the country. Each offers a full day's worth of entertainment and excitement for people of all ages. Even adults traveling without kids will enjoy spending a few hours exploring these two animal-oriented attractions.
If you're planning a visit to Miami, definitely make time in your schedule to visit this zoo andJungle Island! When you do, plan on walking a lot. The alternative at MetroZoo is to rent a four-passenger bike, take the zoo's monorail, or rent a Segway to explore this massive and stunning attraction. Don't forget to bring a hat, drink plenty of water, wear comfortable shoes, and apply sunblock during your visit. This is primarily an outdoor attraction.
I guarantee that a day at Miami MetroZoo and/or Jungle Island is one you won't soon forget. Admission to the zoo is $15.95 per adult and $11.95 per child. Bike and Segway rentals cost extra. The zoo is open everyday of the year, typically between 9:30am and 5:30pm. A handful of tours and special programs are available (some for an additional fee). Visit the zoo's website or call (305) 251-0400 for details.
Jungle Island is open 365 days a year, from 10:00 am to 6:00pm. Special shows and events at this popular Miami attraction may extend the attraction's hours. Admission prices are as follows:
One-Day Admission
Adults (Ages 11-64) $29.95 plus tax Seniors (Ages 65+) $27.95 plus tax Children (Ages 3-10) $23.95 plus tax Children (Ages 0-2) Free
Okay, so a few weeks ago I blogged about receiving a Q-Link necklace, and was intrigued by the claims the distributing company makes about how wearing this pendant would increase the wearer's energy and focus, reduce their stress, plus reduce or eliminate jet-lag along with travel-related fatigue.
Well, as you know, if you've been following my blog or Twitter postings, I have been on-the-go, virtually non-stop for the past two weeks. Right now, I'm in Miami, FL, after having a wonderful experience visiting Daytona Beach.
Anyway, for the past few weeks, I was wearing Q-Link's "Classic" SR-2 pendant ($39.00). To be honest, I didn't notice a huge change. However, a few days ago, I acquired a Q-Link Titanium pendant ($239.00), and within a few hours, I did notice a significant difference in my overall well-being, fatigue level and stress level - and that positive difference has remained for several days now, despite the fact that my schedule has become increasingly more hectic.
I can't offer specific quantifiable proof that the Q-Link achieves everything the company's promotional materials says it does, however, for me, I have noticed steady improvements as I continue to wear the Q-Link Titanium pendant, which utilizes more powerful SR-3 technology (described on the company's website - www.QLinkProducts.com).
So, after a few weeks of wearing two different Q-Link products, I would say that if you too are intrigued by what Clarus Transphase Scientific, Inc. claims the Q-Link can do for you, I would give it a try firsthand. The company does offer a 90-day money-back guarantee.
My advice, however, is if you are going to try out a Q-Link, invest in one of the more costly SR-3 models (they start at $99.95), so you'll potentially benefit from the full impact of what this technology offers.
Before investing any money in this technology, however, visit the company's website or call them directly at (800) 246-2765, and have Clarus Transphase Scientific explain the Q-Link technology to you and help you choose from their line-up of products that will best benefit you.
It's important to understand that this is not a medical device. It's more of a "new age" thing that helps people counteract the negative impact of EMF fields that we're all bombarded with when we use cell phones, computers, fluorescent lights, most electronic devices, and when we travel.
If you'd rather wear handcrafted jewelry that incorporates Q-Link's SR-3 technology, consider one of the more expensive pieces from the Equilibrio line (described on the company's website).
As I continue to wear my Q-Link, this week I am in Miami, FL gathering information and taking photos for the Thomas Cook Traveller Florida Hotspots book I am currently writing.
Details about this Miami portion of my trip, including travel tips, reviews of top attractions/activities, money-saving advice, and vacation planning strategies will be posted shortly. Until then, please follow me on Twitter (www.Twitter.com/JasonRich7).
Those of you who follow me on Twitter know that I am spending the week in Daytona Beach, FL gathering information and taking photos for a soon-to-be published travel guide, called Thomas Cook Traveller Florida Hotspots. The book will be distributed throughout Europe early next year.
While here in Daytona Beach, I'm staying at the incredibly lovely The Shores Resort & Spa(386-767-7350 / www.shoresresort.com), which is actually located in Daytona Beach Shores. It's the only AAA-rated four-diamond resort in the area, and well worth visiting.
The guest rooms are spacious, clean and luxurious - and most overlook the ocean and beach, which is just a few yards from the resort. As you'd expect from a top-rated resort, The Shores Resort & Spa has a day spa, restaurants and a bunch of other services and amenities right on-property, so it's easy for a couple (on a romantic getaway), honeymooners, business travelers, or an entire family to relax and enjoy their time here. (The resort is also pet-friendly, which appeals to Rusty, my Yorkshire Terrier, who is enjoying his days lounging on the couch in the room and watching the ocean.)
For anyone looking for a fun-filled beach vacation, Daytona Beach is well worth the visit. While this area has a reputation for being a popular Spring Break getaway for college students (thanks in part to MTV), in reality, this is no longer true. In fact, Daytona Beach has re-invented itself over the past few years to become a premier resort and beach destination for couples and families. The college kids are enjoying there Spring Break elsewhere these days, so when you get here, you can expect more of an adult and family-oriented crowd - not a wild party atmosphere.
What may people also don't realize is that Daytona Beach is less than one hour by car from Orlando, so it's very easy and convenient to combine a Disney trip with a few days along the beach in Daytona Beach (or vice versa). You can fly into Orlando International Airport and rent a car to get here, or fly into Daytona Beach's own airport, which is much smaller, but more convenient.
Once you get here, there are all kinds of activities available for kids, teens and adults alike. If you're a NASCAR fan, you already know that Daytona is home to one of NASCAR's most famous tracks (and several NASCAR related experiences for tourists). However, for people who love the beach, this area offers 47 miles of lovely sandy beaches (along the Atlantic ocean), plus so much more - all at affordable prices!
Between NASCAR and the beaches, Daytona Beach welcomes more than eight million visitors per year. In terms of beach and water activities, you'll find whatever you're looking for - from swimming and surfing, to parasailing, fishing and kayaking.
RecommendedDaytona Beach Area Activities & Attractions
The area has plenty of restaurants at all price points, plus a variety of other activities that are family-friendly. Adults in particular will enjoy the Museum of Arts & Sciences, which includes a variety of indoor exhibits, plus several miles of paths through a beautiful wetland area, called the Tuscawilla Preserve. There's a small admission fee for the museum, but you can spend between 15 minutes and several hours exploring the outdoor preserve for free.
Another interesting (and fun) activity that's family-friendly is the Ponce de Leon Inlet Light Station. The 175-foot tall lighthouse is open from 10:00am daily. Guests can climb to the top of the lighthouse and see an amazing, 360-degree view of the surrounding area (but be prepared to climb 203 steps). It's also possible to explore the adjacent buildings that have historic significance, as well as a light house themed gift shop.
On your way to or from the lighthouse, you'll pass the Marine Science Center, which is a wild animal rescue facility that's open to the public. This attraction is primarily for kids and offers a handful of interactive exhibits. Guests can also see the wild turtles and other sea creatures that are being rehabilitated at the center. Plan on spending between 30 and 60 minutes here.
Below are photos from my visit to Daytona Beach...
During my trip, I also had the pleasure of experiencing a private surfing lesson at Daytona Beach Surfing School (386-677-7880 / www.daytonabeachsurfingschool.com).
You'll find a handful of "surfing schools" along the beach. This one, is located at the Grand Seas Resort (2424 N. Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach), but is open to anyone. What's special about this school is that its instructors are highly skilled surfers, experienced instructors, extremely friendly, patient with beginners, trained in CPR, and they're fully insured. Private or small group lessons are available to teens and adults. For a kids, a daily or week-long surfing camp is offered between June and August.
Even if you're an absolute beginner, the instructors at Daytona Beach Surfing School will have you surfing during your first one-hour lesson. While no previous experience is necessary, this is a physically challenging sport, so expect a workout.
After my surfing lesson, I drove over to the Daytona International Speedway to experience the Richard Petty Driving Experience(800-BE-PETTY). This attraction allows guests to experience the thrill of racing around the Daytona International Speedway track, in a genuine NASCAR racing car, at speeds up to 165 mph.
You'll sit in the passenger's seat as a highly-skilled driver shows you exactly what it's like to be a part of a NASCAR race. You'll not just see the experience, you'll hear, smell and feel it. While the ride-along experience is a bit pricey, it's a truly exhilarating and memorable, and something you won't soon forget - especially if you're a NASCAR fan.
The Richard Petty Driving Experience is available at other NASCAR tracks around the U.S., including in Orlando, but this one allows you to experience the world-famous Daytona International Speedway track firsthand.
For those who are truly adventurous, several more elaborate racing programs are available that allow you to actually drive a NASCAR vehicle around the track (after proper training). Expect to pay at least $400.00 per person for this unique experience.
More suitable to people of all ages is the Daytona 500 Experience (386-681-6530 / www.daytona500experience.com). This is an interactive attraction that features hands-on exhibits, an IMAX movie, actual NASCAR vehicles, and a handful of other displays. There are also several racing arcade and simulator games, multiple dining options, and a handful of other activities here - all designed especially for NASCAR fans. Plan on spending several hours here to see and experience everything this primarily indoor attraction offers.
For an additional fee, there's the VIP Hot Pass Tour, which includes a more personalized and up-close visit to Daytona Internationl Speedway - including a track tour and a look inside the driver's meeting room.
Over at the Pier area of Daytona Beach, you'll find a bunch of restaurants, carnival rides and games, arcades, shops, a movie theatre, and other activities which are open late into the night. Also here is the Daytona Lagoon water park, which is small, but will offer several hours of water-based slides, pools, rides and fun, primarily for kids and teens.
If you enjoy sailing, or you've never had the opportunity to sail a 36-foot sail boat before, but you want to try it, one of the best deals in terms of experiences that you'll find in Florida is a two-hour (or longer) sailing lesson/charter excursion with Captain Eric from Eagle Yachts (386-295-2578 / www.marinesource.com/eagleyacht).
For $70.00 per hour (with a two hour minimum), up to six people can enjoy a personalized, hands-on sailing lesson and experience with Captain Eric, aboard the 36-foot sailing vessel S.V. Eagle. No previous sailing experience is required. However, you will be expected to participate in the sailing experience - not just lounge around on the deck as a passenger. The affordable $70.00 per hour rate is for the entire group (between one and six people), not the per-person rate.
Captain Eric is an excellent teacher and guide, and the experience is nothing short of exciting and memorable. This is a great family activity, or a romantic activity for couples, for example.
When you have some free time in Daytona, consider exploring South Beach Street. Here, you'll find a variety of unique shops, cafes, restaurants, bars and clubs. Kids and teens will enjoy stopping at Daytona Magic, which sells thousands of different magic tricks to amateur and professional magicians alike. Throughout the day, free demonstrations by highly-skilled magicians are offered.
Also along Beach Street is the Angell & Phelps Chocolate Factory (800-969-2634). Here, you can purchase a wide range of homemade treats that will satisfy your sweet tooth. On weekdays, a free tour of the factory is offered. This tour lasts about 20 minutes and includes free samples. This store/factory has been in business since 1925.
As you can see, Daytona is a beach community that offers plenty of fun-filled activities for people of all ages. You can enjoy quiet time at the beach or by a pool, or keep yourself entertained with thrilling activities - day and night.
A Few Words About Daytona-Area Accomodations
There are literally hundreds of hotels and motels located in Daytona Beach - most along the ocean. A few, like The Shores Resort and Spa, or the Hilton, for example, offer superior accommodations.
Some of the smaller, independently owned/operated motels and hotels, however, offer far less luxurious accommodations, starting at just $35.00 per night. Before booking one of these inexpensive motels or hotels, seek out an independent referral from someone you know and trust. As a general rule, when it comes to accommodations in Daytona Beach (and elsewhere, for that matter), you typically get what you pay for. So, for that $35.00 per night, expect a no-frills, one-star hotel or motel, with minimal amenities and services.
Some of the less-expensive hotels and motels are not family-friendly, offer only basic accommodations, are outdated, or would be classified as one or two-star properties. After spending several nights at The Shores Resort and Spa, however, I honestly can't recommend this resort highly enough. You and your family be extremely comfortable here, plus you'll feel like you're getting your money's worth.
For more information about all that there is to see and do in Daytona Beach, visit the DaytonaBeach Area Convention and Visitor's Bureau's website at www.daytonabeachcvb.org, or call (800) 544-0415.
Naples, Florida is, without a doubt, a wonderful vacation destination for seniors, families and couples looking for beaches, golf, day spas, shopping, fishing and fine-dining.
While almost every major restaurant franchise and chain has a presence in the Naples area, there are a handful of independent, one-of-a-kind restaurants that offer superior and memorable fine-dining experiences that are also surprisingly affordable.
During my recent visit to Naples and Marco Island, I had the pleasure of dining at three unique restaurants that should not be missed if you happen to be visiting or vacationing in the area.
Sea Salt
1186 Third Street South
Naples, FL
(239) 434-7258
Open daily for lunch and dinner
No matter what your taste, Sea Salt, located on historic Third Street in Naples, is a wonderful, family-friendly restaurant that offers a fine-dining experience, but in a casual, yet sophisticated atmosphere.
Chef Fabrizio Aielli is on-hand every afternoon and evening (seven days a week) and creates a daily menu based on only the freshest ingredients he's able to acquire for that particular day. Only the finest seafood, Kobe beef, pastas and vegetables, for example, are used to create mouth-watering dishes you won't soon forget.
Complementing the chef's daily creations is an extensive wine list (from an inventory of more than 5,000 bottles) from around the world. Sea Salt also has a full bar, outdoor seating, and a very well decorated dining room which overlooks the open kitchen.
While the appetizers, salads, soups and main entrees are all incredible, be sure to leave room for the home-made desserts. As you'll discover, Sea Salt is a popular restaurant amongst tourists and locals alike. In fact, during peak travel seasons, reservations are an absolute must.
The management of Sea Salt has done a wonderful job creating a friendly, welcoming and open atmosphere that's classy, yet casual - although the food is what you'd expect from the fanciest of fine-dining restaurants. While the menu is always changing, it always offers a large selection of appetizers, entrees and desserts that will appeal to everyone, including the most picky kids.
If you're looking for an enjoyable way to spend an evening, consider eating dinner at Sea Salt, and then sticking around for drinks and dessert while you enjoy the live Flamenco guitar music that's presented several nights per week.
For more information about Sea Salt, or to make a reservation, call (239) 434-7258, or visit www.SeaSaltNaples.com. I have the opportunity to travel a lot and experience restaurants everywhere. Very few offer such a tasty and memorable meal that's affordable and so expertly prepared. I highly recommend dining at Sea Salt for lunch and/or dinner!
Naples Tomato
14700 Tamiami Trail North
Naples, FL
(239) 598-9800
Open daily for lunch and dinner
If you're in the mood for what could very well be the best Italian food you've ever had (featuring freshly made pastas and many other entrees), look no further than Naples Tomato.
I have to admit, when I pulled into the parking lot of this restaurant for the first time, I was extremely skeptical. After all, the restaurant is located in a strip-mall, and from the outside doesn't look like much. However, I was pleasantly surprised when I entered the restaurant and immediately realized it was going to be a memorable and extremely enjoyable meal. (The dining room was packed on a weeknight.)
Like Sea Salt, Naples Tomato is locally-owned. In addition to offering an extensive menu of Italian dishes (featuring ultra-fresh seafood, homemade pasta, steaks, and other entrees), Naples Tomato features the Enomatic self-serve wine-by-the-glass system that allows guests to taste and experience any of more than 48 vintages from the restaurant's extensive wine selection.
While the dining room is large, this is a favorite restaurant of locals and tourists alike, so expect a crowd every night of the week. Reservations are strongly suggested. The atmosphere is casual, but classy and refined. Casual resort attire is acceptable.
Naples Tomato first opened its doors about five years ago, but recently expanded its dining room and wine tasting lounge. The portions are large and the service is top-notch. Be sure to leave room for the homemade desserts.
Whether you're looking to experience a romantic dinner, an enjoyable dinner with the entire family, or you want to host a small group of close friends after a round of golf, dining at Naples Tomato guarantees a wonderful and memorable dining experience.
Guy Harvey's Island Grill
760 N. Collier Blvd.
Marco Island, FL
(850) 230-4321
While spending time exploring Marco Island, consider dropping by Guy Harvey's Island Grill for lunch or dinner. This casual restaurant is located on the water and showcases the artwork of Guy Harvey on the walls throughout the dining room. (The restaurant is located within The Esplanade shopping and dining complex, which is accessible by car, Marco Island Trolley or boat.)
This is primarily a seafood restaurant, but steak, chicken and other menu options are available, as are a selection of tasty salads. Within a dining room is a full bar. This is a mid-priced dining option that's suitable for the entire family. It's conveniently located a short drive from many of Marco Island's most popular resorts.
Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to spend a few days exploring Clearwater, Florida, and was pleasantly surprised by all that this city has to offer - whether you're looking for a luxury vacation, or a more affordable getaway to a breathtakingly beautiful beachfront community.
First and foremost, Clearwater offers absolutely exquisite and pristine white sandy beaches. In fact, you'll find more than 28 miles of lovely beaches in Clearwater, which allow for all sorts of water-based recreation (not to mention sunbathing).
The city is located within a two hour drive from Orlando, and is easy to reach from Sarasota, Tampa and St. Petersburg. The nearby major airport is the Tampa International Airport, although the smaller St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport is a bit closer.
During my visit, I had the opportunity to stay at the luxurious Sandpearl Resort & Spa (877-726-3111 / www.sandpearl.com), which is located right on the beach. This resort property is as nice as any Ritz-Carlton or Four Seasons Resort. It offers spacious, nicely decorated and extremely comfortable rooms and suites (many overlooking the ocean), plus fine-dining restaurants, a full-service day spa, a lovely swimming pool, and plenty of beachfront activities for kids, teens and adults alike.
An alternative (and less costly) alternative to the Sandpearl Resort & Spa is the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa, which is also located on the beach, near Pier 60.
The main reason to visit Clearwater is to experience the award-winning beaches, which have been called some of the most beautiful in the United States. The Caladesi Island State Park offers boat-only access to a wonderful nature reserve and beach area, although there are plenty of public beaches located within a short walk from many of the hotels and resorts in the area.
Clearwater Beach is one of the most popular in the area. Lifeguards are on duty during the day, plus you'll find a wide range of activities available - including jet ski and boat rentals, as well as parasailing. This beach is also home to Pier 60, a boardwalk attraction which offers ongoing special events.
As for nearby attractions, Clearwater offers something for everyone. In addition to the beaches, you'll find nearby theatres, museums, theme parks and family-friendly attractions. Within a short drive, there's Bush Gardens Tampa Bay (888-800-5447), for example, but within Clearwater itself, there's the Clearwater Marine Aquarium (727-441-1790), an attraction which I can't recommend highly enough.
Unlike most aquariums that are open to the public, like SeaWorld, for example, Clearwater Marine Aquarium is primarily a research-based, non-profit facility dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of injured marine life. This attraction is relatively small and non-commercial. What people of all ages will experience here is a heartwarming and educational look at marine wildlife.
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is home to perhaps the world's most famous dolphin, named Winter, who lost his tail after it got caught in a trap. Since being rescued, the aquarium has nursed Winter back to full health and with the help of some of the world's leading experts in prosthetics (including people from Hanger Prosthetics & Orthotics), Winter has been fitted with a state-of-the-art artificial limb to replace his tail.
The research being done in conjunction with Winter's artificial tail has directly led to some major advancements in prosthetic limbs for children and injured war veterans. In short, this dolphin has directly touched and improved the lives of many people, and his story is told in a very touching way to visitors of Clearwater Marine Aquarium. In fact, guests get a chance to see Winter up-close as part of the "hands-on" opportunities this very unique aquarium offers.
Even if you don't plan to stay in Clearwater, but you happen to be visiting Tampa or even Orlando, a day trip to Clearwater Marine Aquarium (especially if you're traveling with kids or teens, or someone with a disability) is highly recommended.
Other activities available in the Clearwater area include fishing, sailing, kayaking, canoeing, and golf. What was pleasantly surprising was that the majority of these activities are offered at very affordable rates. For example, if you'd like to rent an inexpensive sail boat, visit the Clearwater Community Sailing Center(727-517-7776) for boat rentals and sailing instruction.
As for land-based activities, located within Clearwater (or in nearby Tampa or St. Petersburg) are hundreds of wonderful restaurants, shops, museums and galleries. In St. Petersburg, for example, I had the chance to visit the Salvador Dali Museum (727-823-3767), and truly enjoyed my experience.
If you're traveling with kids, the two-hour Pirate Cruise (727-446-2587) offers a fun-filled, high-seas adventure. Okay, maybe not high-seas, but you will enjoy a cruise along the Clearwater coastline in a large pirate ship staffed by pirates who play games with the kids and entertain the passengers.
Clearwater is a wonderful, beautiful and laid back place to visit during a vacation. However, it also provides an ideal setting for a beachfront destination wedding or a romantic honeymoon.
For more information about Clearwater, point your web browser to www.visitclearwaterflorida.com and/or www.myclearwater.com. You can also call the Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce at (888) 425-3279.
The following are some photos from my memorable and enjoyable trip to Clearwater...
All images (c)2009 Jason R. Rich. All rights reserved. To see additional images, visit www.JasonRichPhotography.com.
I am a bestselling author of more than 52 books, as well as a frequent contributor to numerous national magazines and major daily newspapers. I am also an accomplished photographer. You can view my work at www.JasonRichPhotography.com and visit my main website at www.JasonRich.com.
On January 21, 2010, Merlin Entertainment announced big plans for the Winter Garden, Florida region - a new theme park! Joining the ranks of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando and SeaWorld will soon be Legoland Florida.
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