aChateau Frontenac

TUniversal StudiosThe gateway to Universal Studios Disney World - EpcotDisney's Epcot Theme Park SeaWorld - OceansSeaWorld show with Shamu the Killer Whale
Orlando Theme Parks - Christmas 2011

 
Bound for Orlando
   Introduction
Itinerary - Orlando
    Day One & Two
    Day Three
    Day Four
    Day Five
    Day Six
    Day Seven
    Day Eight
 Travel Supports
    Weather - Orlando
    Frommer's Online
    Frommer's Disney
    Disney World
    SeaWorld
    Universal Orlando
    Buena Vista Suites
 Thoughts on Travels
    Reflections
    Gallery
    Samaritans
    Tips for Friends
    Links
ccFrommers.com
 Orlando 2011 - Tips for Friends

We had a lot of input in regards to tips & tricks for navigating the "Theme Park" experience prior to our departure so we always list some things that helped us while we were on the ground in Orlando;

  • Double check for those passports... and likewise do an expiry look to confirm validity.
  • Whooie... Canadian dollar almost at par with the buck!!! This makes quite a difference in the run of a larger trip with expenditures on atrraction tickets and accommodations.
  • Speaking of accommodations... Buena Vista Suites offered a free breakfast and free shuttle to Disney Theme Parks. The shuttle was helpful... but the breakfast was such a worry free great start to each day that we'd do that again without hesitation.
  • We took an iPod & iPad across and used them a lot. Would have been nice to have picked digs with free wifi... but not much for free in Orlando. This technology and accompanying charger left a means for notes, e-books, maps as well as a little solitaire time on the plane!
  • Take copies of passports / cards and hold in a different place than originals (leave a copy of these and an Itinerary at home with contact as well).
  • We opted for not driving (getting a rental) and using existing transportation links. Its a sacrifice in freedom exchanged for avoidance in driver related stress. In our case, it was perfect not to have to think about driving, directions, parking, etc...
  • Check with your card company before leaving so they know the card may be used abroad and drop a limit on expenditures in case it gets stolen.
  • Tips for attractions/locations:
    • I kept my Frommer's Guide close, as it was fun for me to chart out the attractions we visited the night before, and know the general layout prior to hitting the ground.
    • We got on to the Fast Pass thing at Disney during Day 2 on the ground there. If we were ever to visit again, we'd use this more diligently as it does assist in planning and can be a time saver when used appropriately.
    • The Express Plus Passes we purchased for Universal were great!!! Nice to slash by long lines when time is limited.
    • We kept a stash at all times in our trusty Canada knapsack Joan gave us... filled with water and goodies with healthy treats. Works well in the midday spaces.