Orlando Homes To Rent - News & Useful Information

Visitors to US to pay at least $10 fee for ESTA From

Visitors to the US will have to pay a fee of at least $10 following the passing of the Travel Promotion Act by the US Senate.

The act, which is expected to become law within 10 days, means travellers will have to pay to complete the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation form before travelling.

It is thought the charge could be as much as $17, taking into account the cost of setting up the transactional website and credit card fees.

A Corporation for Travel Promotion will be set up to push the US as a tourist destination to source markets and to provide information to prospective visitors and travel professionals overseas. This will be funded by the charge for visitors, which will be directed into a Travel Promotion Fund.

President Obama is expected to sign the measure in the next few days.

Visit USA chairwoman Kate Burgess-Craddy said: “This has been needed for a long time. The US has lost market share because other countries have upped their game and the US hasn’t been marketing itself enough. We don’t welcome the charge but as a proportion of the cost of going to the US, it is not really very much.”

She claimed the UK travel industry was likely to benefit from the act in the long term.

“We should see a good chunk of the money being spent here,” added Burgess-Craddy.

“Visit USA will be lobbying to make sure the money is spent with operators and airlines. Hopefully this will mean more bookings for the UK trade.”

The move has been welcomed by the travel industry in the US, which has been lobbying for the government to get involved in promoting the US as a tourist destination for some time.

Legoland Florida announce new web site

Harry Potter - Universal Studios

British company Merlin Entertainment announce the 5th and largest Legoland

2011 will see the old Winter Haven Cypress Gardens transformed into the world's largest Legoland theme park.

Labels: Legoland, orlando, orlando homes to rent, theme park

Special Theme Park rates for Florida residents

• Universal Orlando's deal is $10 off a two-park pass that's good every day through Jan. 31, 2010. Must be purchased by Jan. 3, 2010, but the earlier you purchase, the more bang for your $79.99. Although both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure parks can be crowded in December, it's usually roomier in January. Lots of details and fine print at universalorlando.com.

• SeaWorld Orlando's Fun Card, if purchased now, offers admission to the theme park from now until Dec. 31, 2010, for $69.95.

(Note that neither Fun Card nor Universal offer includes parking.)

• Walt Disney World's annual pass is now good for 15 months if purchased by Dec. 31, 2009. Passes are good at Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios and Disney's Animal Kingdom.

The three-month extension applies to seasonal passes (the ones with blackout dates), regular annual passes and the premium annual pass, which includes water parks. Prices on those passes range from $220 to $489. The 15-month clock starts from time of purchase.

Labels: disney, florida, orlandohomestorent.com, sea world, theme parks, universal

ICE! at Gaylord Palms

An exciting highlight of our Best of Florida Christmas celebration!
November 14, 2009 – January 3, 2010
Open daily including holidays, hours vary.

For the lowest ticket prices, purchase your tickets in advance, online!

Prepare for the coolest winter on record as Gaylord Palms in Kissimmee presents ICE!, a walk-through Christmas attraction hand-carved from nearly TWO MILLION pounds of ice.

Fueled by a dose of holiday spirit and tempered by a cool pinch of irony, sunny Central Florida is home to one of then nation’s most spectacular (and unusual) art attractions, now in its seventh year. Who says the holidays in Florida are all about sunshine and palm trees, anyway?

Inside a simulated winter environment, guests are immersed in a whimsical wonderland of larger-than-life, three-dimensional hand-carved ice monuments and scenes, including fantastic frozen creations, slippery ice speed slides, and heart-warming holiday vistas. As for the chill, visitors are given oversized parkas to stay comfortable inside the attraction, which is kept at a chilly 9 degrees.

This year, ICE! will take guests on a trip to the North Pole. And, tag along on Santa’s journey, beginning with an encounter with Old Man Winter, through an arctic forest, and into the middle of a Christmas Carnival, complete with a life-size carousel! Next, chill-seekers will be able to explore Santa’s ornament room, climb onto his oversized knee (an unusual photo op!), and watch as he and reindeer take flight.

The attraction’s signature scene—a life-size Nativity carved completely of crystal-clear ice—has been described as one of the most breathtaking depictions of the birth of Christ. Dramatic lighting and a stirring narrative track give guests an opportunity to pause and reflect on the story behind the season.

The award-winning Kissimmee attraction is carved by a team of 40 artisans from Harbin, China. The talented artisans spend more than a month in Kissimmee creating this one-of-a-kind attraction. Harbin is best known for its annual International Ice and Snow Festival, where more than 2,000 sculptors annually carve a 100-acre walk-through ice park, using ice from the nearby Songhua River.

ICE! is open daily from November 14, 2009 – January 3, 2010, including holidays.

For the lowest ticket prices, purchase your tickets in advance, online! For more information, or to purchase your tickets by phone, please call (407) 586-4423.

Note: ICE! is kept at a frigid 9 degrees Fahrenheit. Be sure to dress appropriately: closed-toe shoes and long pants are required. Hooded winter coats will be provided for your warmth and comfort inside the attraction. Hats and gloves are suggested and can be purchased on site at the ICE! House gift shop.

Gaylord Palms is only a short drive from Orlando Homes to Rents luxury pool vacation homes

NEW NONSTOP SERVICES TO ORLANDO

Looking to get away from the cold Spring weather

Allegiant Air to Offer Nonstop Service between 10 U.S. Cities and Orlando International
Introductory Fares as Low as $45.99* One-way

ORLANDO, Fla. – Low-cost airline, Allegiant Air, LLC, a subsidiary of Allegiant Travel Company (Nasdaq: ALGT), today announces it will establish a new base at Orlando International Airport (MCO) beginning Feb. 1, 2010. The low-fare carrier will initially serve 10 U.S. cities from the base.

Allegiant currently offers nonstop, scheduled service to Orlando from 31 U.S. cities via Orlando-Sanford International Airport. The 10 selected cities reflect a portion of the company's current operation at Sanford, Fla. which will move to Orlando International Airport, starting Feb. 1, 2010. The move provides Allegiant customers with more convenient access to the popular theme parks in Orlando and allows the carrier to remain competitive in the markets it serves. Allegiant will continue to offer flights to Orlando-Sanford International Airport from the other 21 cities currently served by the airline.

Robert Ashcroft, vice president of planning for Allegiant Air, said, "Moving these markets from Orlando-Sanford to Orlando International accomplishes two things for Allegiant. First, it allows us to be responsive to the many Orlando travelers who prefer the proximity of Orlando International to the most prominent attractions in the Orlando area, including, most obviously, Walt Disney World. Second, it improves our position relative to competitors with service to Orlando International."

"The decision by Allegiant to launch service from Orlando International Airport adds new air service options and access for Central Florida travelers," Vicki Jaramillo, director of marketing for Orlando International Airport, said. "It also positions this airport as Florida's leader in service by low-cost carriers by adding the Allegiant's schedule to the current 2900 flights operating per week."

To kick off the new service, Allegiant is offering introductory fares as low as $45.99* each way to/from MCO (listed chronologically).

1. Knoxville, Tenn. — flights begin Feb. 1, 2010 with fares as low as $49.99* each way
2. Lexington, Ky. — flights begin Feb. 1, 2010 with fares as low as $57.99* each way
3. Allentown, Penn. — flights begin Feb. 8, 2010 with fares as low as $59.99* each way
4. Greenville/Spartanburg, S.C. — flights begin Feb. 8, 2010 with fares as low as $45.99* each way
5. Grand Rapids, Mich. — flights begin Feb. 12, 2010 with fares as low as $79.99* each way
6. Springfield, Mo. — flights begin Feb. 15, 2010 with fares as low as $79.99* each way
7. Tri-Cities, Tenn. — flights begin Feb. 15, 2010 with fares as low as $47.99* each way
8. Huntington, W.V. — flights begin Feb. 16, 2010 with fares as low as $59.99* each way
9. Youngstown, Ohio — flights begin March 4, 2010 with fares as low as $59.99* each way
10. Des Moines, Iowa — flights begin March 5, 2010 with fares as low as $79.99* each way

By March 5, 2010, the leisure-focused carrier will base five, 150-seat, MD-80 series jet aircraft at MCO. The new base is the carrier's eighth scheduled service base, the airline also has scheduled service bases in Las Vegas; Sanford, Fla.; Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; Bellingham, Wash.; Phoenix; Los Angeles and St. Petersburg/Clearwater, Fla. Allegiant currently provides nonstop scheduled service to/from 69 U.S. cities.

Allegiant is more than an airline, it is a full-service travel company that offers great value to its customers through its hotel, car rental and entertainment packages. The company will provide low-cost car rental service through its partnership with Alamo Rent a Car.

Reservations can be made on the airline's website at www.allegiantair.com, through the airline's Reservations and Information Center at 702-505-8888 or through professional travel agents.

About the offer:

Seats are limited. Fares are one-way and not available on all flights. Must be purchased by December 16, 2009 for travel completed by May 31, 2010. Offer not available Dec. 22-31, 2009; Jan. 1-4, 2010; Feb. 12-15, 2010; March 31, 2010 and April 1-2, 11-12 and 18, 2010. Seven-day advance purchase required. Prices do not include PFC, segment tax or Sept. 11 security fee of up to $10.60 per segment. A segment is one take-off and one landing. A convenience fee of $14 per passenger will apply when booked on allegiantair.com. A convenience fee of $14 per passenger, plus $10 per segment, will apply when purchased through Allegiant Air call centers. Purchases made at any Allegiant Air Airport Ticket Office will not incur a convenience or call-center fee. When purchased at the time of booking, a first checked bag fee of $15-$20 per bag and second checked bag fee of $25 will apply per person, per segment. If purchased at flight check-in, a fee of $35 per checked bag, per person, per segment will apply for the first two bags checked. Additional higher fees will apply for three or more checked bags. Fare rules, routes and schedules are subject to change without notice. Restrictions apply.

About The Company:

Las Vegas based Allegiant Travel Company (NASDAQ: ALGT), focuses on flying travelers in small cities to world-class leisure destinations such as Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Fort Lauderdale, Fla., Orlando, Fla. and Tampa/St. Petersburg, Fla. Through its subsidiary, Allegiant Air, LLC, the Company operates a low-cost, high-efficiency, all-jet passenger airline offering air travel both on a stand-alone basis and bundled with hotel rooms, rental cars and other travel related services.

Why not stay in one of our luxury 3, 4 or 5 bedroom pool homes all close to Disney and the other parks - check them out on our web site Orlando Homes to Rent

Emergency Evacuation Policy


Polk County Emergency Management Division recommend in-place shelter as the primary option during a disaster.
For those unable to remain in place the remaining choices should be considered in order of preference.
Whichever of the following options is selected, it is advised that a 72-hour survival kit be assembled and ready, a course of action be planned, and that the plans be executed as soon as practicable before the disaster hits.
The recommended options are:

1. In-place Shelter - plan to remain in residence during the emergency, if possible.
2. Evacuate to Friends or Relative Residence - if forced to evacuate, it is less traumatic for all concerned to be sheltered with familiar people, in more comfortable surroundings.
3. Evacuate the Area - other people leaving this area or areas in the projected path of the storm will also be on the road; leave at least 48-72 hours before the storm is expected to strike.
4. Evacuate to the Hotel/Motel/ - make arrangements early as rooms will fill quickly with other evacuees.
5. Evacuate to a Public Shelter - please see the Public Shelter policy.
A copy of the the Polk County Public Shelter Map, can be downloaded from the link at the end of this item.

Emergency Public Shelters

Not all public shelters are automatically activated for each emergency.
They are opened as needed and are not pre-assigned by geographic area.
During an emergency please monitor Polk County Government Television, other local television and radio stations for open shelter information.
Have your 72-Hour survival kit ready to take with you.
Weapons and alcoholic beverages are not allowed at any public shelter.

Download 72-hour survival kit
Download Polk County Public Shelter Map

Theme Parks Florida - Something Different

Orlando homes to rent guests staying at our luxury vacation homes have recommended something different to enjoy while in Florida.

Bok Tower - Built on the highest point in Central Florida stands a structure over 200 feet tall - the iconic Bok Tower. Made largely of pink and gray marble, the soaring 205-foot tower surveys woodland gardens designed by famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. and hundreds of acres of citrus groves, conservation lands and nature preserves. And it houses one of the world's great carillons.
The Tower Looking up at the 205 foot neo-Gothic and art deco Singing Tower carillon is an experience like no other. Designed by famed architect Milton B. Medary and ornately crafted by noted stone sculptor Lee Lawrie, the Tower houses one of the world’s finest carillons. Concerts from the 60 bell carillon at 1 and 3 p.m. fill the Gardens daily.

The Gardens
The meandering garden is one of the greatest achievements of famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. Tranquil resting places, shady recesses, picturesque vistas and expansive splashes of color create a contemplative setting for your personal renewal and enjoyment.

There are also many family-friendly garden areas which give children the chance to learn about the gardens while playing in a vine-covered arbor or observing butterflies.

The acres of ferns, palms, oaks and pines create a year-round backdrop of 1,000 shades of green for the seasonal bursts of azaleas, camellias and magnolia blooms that form an ever-changing work of art.

Check opening times at www.boktowergardens.org

SEA WORLD & BUSCH GARDENS 2010 Admission Prices
Busch Entertainment Corp. has just raised its admission prices to its Tampa and Orlando theme parks. However, Florida residents can still get 2010 year-long passes at the 2009 price (a yearly pass for $5 less than the new admission price for just one day).

Tampa Bay Online reports:

Adult single admission tickets will increase from $69.95 to $74.95 at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and prices for children ages 3 through 9 will increase from $59.95 to $64.95.

However, 2010 Fun Cards purchased on line will enable Florida residents to get a full-year's adult or children's admission at Busch Gardens for $69.95, less than the price of a single day admission and the same price as the adult 2009 Fun Cards.

The 2010 Busch Gardens Fun Cards purchased at the gate will cost $74.95.

SeaWorld Orlando admission for adults will increase from $74.95 to $78.95, while children's admission will increase from $64.95 to $68.95. Sea World 2010 Fun Cards for adults and children also will be $69.95 on line.

Disney Announce weekday pass for Florida Residents

A new Weekly Annual Pass has just been announced by Walt Disney World for Florida Residents. The pass will allow admission to any of the theme parks during weekdays throughout the year (but does include some blackout dates).

The pass holder will also receive special discounts throughout the parks.

The price for the Weekly Annual Pass is $169 for adults and $149 for children (under 10 years old).

Visiting Walt Disney World - why not stay in a luxury vacation home at Highlands Reserve only 15 minutes from Disney - check out our homes at Orlando Homes To Rent

AirTran Airways Warms Up for Winter, Increasing Flights to Florida
- Airline Announces Additional Service From Several Destinations to the Sunshine State -

ORLANDO, Fla., Oct. 5 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --
AirTran Airways, a subsidiary of AirTran Holdings, Inc. today announced increases to its winter flight schedule to Florida. Daily flights will be added to a combination of Orlando and Ft. Myers, Fla., beginning December 17, 2009, from Boston, Pittsburgh, Chicago/Midway, and Columbus, Ohio. These flights are in addition to AirTran's already extensive schedule to 10 cities in the Sunshine State, including recently added service to Key West.
The low-cost leader flies to more cities from Orlando and Ft. Myers than any other airline. "The only thing that covers Florida better is the sunshine itself," said Kevin Healy, senior vice president of marketing and planning, AirTran Airways. "No one beats our combination of low fares and high quality service to the land of theme parks and powder white beaches." The following nonstop flights between Boston and Orlando will be available beginning December 17, 2009. This is in addition to two existing daily nonstops: New Nonstop Service Between Boston and Orlando

From To Flight Departs Arrives Frequency Equipment
---- -- ------ ------- ------- --------- ---------
Boston Orlando 895 3:05 p.m. 6:34 p.m. Daily 737
Orlando Boston 892 11:23 a.m. 2:25 p.m. Daily 737

The following nonstop flights between Pittsburgh and Orlando will be available beginning December 17, 2009. This is in addition to three existing daily nonstops:
New Nonstop Service Between Pittsburgh and Orlando

From To Flight Departs Arrives Frequency Equipment
---- -- ------ ------- ------- --------- ---------
Pittsburgh Orlando 982 7:08 p.m. 9:24 p.m. Daily 717
Orlando Pittsburgh 891 7:15 p.m. 9:33 p.m. Daily 717

AirTran Airways, a subsidiary of AirTran Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: AAI) and a Fortune 1000 company, has been ranked the number one low cost carrier in the Airline Quality Rating study for the past two years. AirTran is the only major airline with Wi-Fi on every flight and offers coast-to-coast service on North America's newest all-Boeing fleet. Its low-cost, high-quality product also includes assigned seating, Business Class and complimentary XM Satellite Radio on every flight. To book a flight, visit www.airtran.com.

After undergoing a three month renovation to the greens, Falcon’s Fire Golf Club is proud to unveil a new golf experience to the Orlando golfing community

On Thursday, October 1st Falcons Fire Golf Course will reopen for play to reveal brand new TifEagle greens re-establishing themselves amongst the finest public golf courses in Orlando.
Players are invited to come and experience the newly
renovated greens at Falcon’s Fire Golf Club at specially discounted rates all month long with the offer a replay round with every regular green fee paid in October. A special re-opening celebration will be held the weekend of October 9th through October 11th which will kick-off with the live broadcast of ESPN’s “The Beat of Sports” and “Tuck and O’Neil Show” and culminate with five golfers taking one shot for their chance to win $1,000,000. The weekend will be filled with special prizes and giveaways including entry to win the Grand Prize of a year of free golf at Falcon’s Fire Golf Club. “We are so excited to reveal a brand new golfing experience to our golfers,” says Kenny Winn, Director of Golf at Falcon’s Fire Golf Club, “These special events are our way of saying ‘thank you’ to our guests for their patience and loyalty throughout this renovation.” To book your tee time please call 407.239.5445.

Why not stay at one of Orlando Homes To Rent.com luxury golf course homes and enjoy some of the areas other courses.

About Falcon’s Fire Golf Club
Falcon’s Fire Golf Club is open to the public and offers a challenging Rees Jones-signature designed golf course of 6,900 yards, which plays to a par-72. Located a mere three miles east of the main gate of Walt Disney World, just off Osecola Parkway, Falcon’s Fire Golf Club is convenient for area residents as well as out of town visitors. The Clubhouse features a fully stocked Golf Shop, dining and banquet facilities for up to 200 guests. For more information please call 407.239.5445 or visit www.FalconsFire.com

Disney is offering a free day's admission to 1 million guests who complete a day of volunteer work next year.

The "Give a Day, Get a Disney Day" program will provide certified volunteers with a one-day ticket to any park at Disneyland in Anaheim, Calif., or Walt Disney World near Orlando, Fla., in 2010.

Disney is partnering with HandsOn Network, a clearinghouse for volunteer opportunities, to connect people with projects and to certify that the work was done.

"We are trying to inspire 1 million people to volunteer in their communities and we're inspiring them to do that by giving them a free day at a Disney park," Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, said in a phone interview with The Associated Press.

Rasulo called the promotion "very timely," citing the increased needs of nonprofits in the weak economy, as well as President Obama's national volunteering initiative.

"The spirit of our country is very much behind that, whether it's the first family or whether it's the average family," Rasulo said.

Duncan Dickson, who teaches theme park management at the University of Central Florida's Rosen School of Hospitality Management in Orlando, said the volunteer initiative is "a smart marketing move."

Dickson said Disney will get good buzz for encouraging volunteerism plus free publicity from the nonprofits that benefit. And even when theme parks let people in for free, they make their money back in other ways, Dickson said.

"You make a lot of money in popcorn and T-shirts and other things," Dickson said.

Some guests who come in for free would have bought tickets anyway, but the free offer will also bring in visitors who wouldn't otherwise have made the trip, and they'll bring paying guests with them, Dickson added. "Anything that pushes the turnstiles is good for business," Dickson said.

HandsOn Network has 70,000 affiliated agencies, from Habitat for Humanity to local food banks, churches, health care centers, and educational programs. Once their service is verified by HandsOn, volunteers print out an online certificate that can be redeemed at a Disney park.

Would-be volunteers must register online with Disney and must be residents of the U.S., Canada or Puerto Rico to be eligible for the free admission. The work must be performed in 2010, and the park visit must take place by Dec. 15, 2010. Participants must be 18 or older to sign up for the program, but volunteer work done by children ages 6-17 qualifies for a free ticket as long as kids are accompanied by an adult when volunteering. Unused admission certificates can be donated to a charity designated by Disney.

Examples of volunteer opportunities currently listed on HandsOn's Web site range from drivers and bingo callers to a book drive organizer at a senior center in Scranton, Pa., to a docent at the Oregon Maritime Museum in Portland.

Volunteers who have multiday tickets or annual passes can get a special FASTPASS for up to six people in lieu of the voucher.

DVD rental kiosks are beginning to appear close to Highlands Reserve Orlando.

Redbox who are one of the largest players in the market have installed DVD rental boxes at locations that are close to our luxury orlando vacation rental homes

Redbox, which allows customers to rent and return DVDs at more than 15,000 kiosk locations nationwide, is becoming hard to miss in Polk County. After debuting here with about 17 locations in late 2008, the Illnois-based firm now counts more than 50 kiosks at 40 sites in Polk, mostly drug stores and supermarkets.

However, a new competitor looms. After testing DVD kiosks in select stores the past few years, Lakeland-based Publix Super Markets is preparing to gradually introduce Blockbuster Express DVD machines in the majority of the chain's 1,000-plus locations.

Most Florida stores will have a kiosk by Nov. 1.

"Within the next month the majority of the Polk County locations will have one," said Publix spokeswoman Shannon Patten. Currently, Publix has just five kiosks in local stores, all in Lakeland.

"All of our new stores will be opening with a Blockbuster Express in the future as long as we can fit them in with the size and format of the store," Patten said.

Similar to Redbox, the Blockbuster Express machines rent DVDs for $1 per night using a credit card.DVD rental locations close to our vacation homes are:
Redbox
Walmart - Hwy 27/US192
Wallgreens - Hwy27/Dean Still Road
Wallgreens - Champions Gate
Blockbuster - Publix - hope to have a kiosk in their store on Sand Mine Road this fall

CYPRESS GARDENS CLOSES - AGAIN

Cypress Gardens and Splash Island Water Park in Winter Haven abruptly closed Wednesday afternoon, leaving in doubt the future of an attraction that has lured visitors with flowering plants, Southern belles and water-skiing exhibitions since 1936. Wednesday's sudden announcement marked the third time since 2003 that Cypress Gardens has closed.

A lawyer speaking for the owners, says that they are looking to sell property to someone who will reopen it as a theme park.

The park's owners released a brief statement Wednesday afternoon announcing the immediate closing of the twin attractions.
Co-owners Rob Harper and Brian Philpot said they are "in the process of negotiating with several potential purchasers and lessees for all or part of the property, and do not feel it is fair to our employees, the guests, or the public to continue operations heading into the fall with the future of the property in flux."

Harper and Philpot have owned Cypress Gardens since 2007 through Land South Holdings based in Mulberry.
Neither Harper nor Philpot returned messages Wednesday evening.

There have been reports in recent months that Legoland, a California theme park, was negotiating to buy Cypress Gardens, but the local owners have not confirmed that. A spokesman for Legoland could not be reached Wednesday.

Bob Morgan, a spokesman for the theme park, said employees learned of the closing Wednesday at 4 p.m., when the owners gave him the statement to be posted on the Cypress Gardens Web site.
The parks had approximately 200 employees when they opened in March after being closed several months.

Rick Dantzler, a Winter Haven lawyer and former state senator, has been representing Land South Holdings.
He said Philpot told him Wednesday the owners are committed to finding buyers who will reopen Cypress Gardens as a theme park.

Bob Gernert, director of the Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce, said the attraction's recent history of closings and management changes has been frustrating.

"Winter Haven and Cypress Gardens have had a long, wonderful love affair, but we hate to see it struggle," Gernert said.
"For the last year, the park has not functioned well. It seemed to lack direction and the crowds weren't there. In general, I think the starting and stopping and the roller coaster it's been through has been damaging."

Gernert said he is hopeful the park can find a new buyer, but he also is concerned that Cypress Gardens has yet to find a niche where it can hold its own against competing attractions in Orlando.

Universal Orlando Resort Reveals Highly Anticipated Details About The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Opening Set for Spring 2010

ORLANDO, Fla. (September 15, 2009) – Universal Orlando Resort, together with Warner Bros. Consumer Products, today revealed first-ever details about the incredible scope of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Universal also announced that the highly anticipated land will open in spring 2010.

Inspired by J.K. Rowling’s compelling stories and characters – and faithful to the visual landscapes of the films – The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal’s Islands of Adventure will provide visitors with a one-of-a-kind experience complete with multiple attractions, shops and a signature eating establishment. This completely immersive environment will transcend generations and bring the wonder and magic of the amazingly detailed Harry Potter books and films to life.

The expectations of Harry Potter fans are high and Universal Orlando Resort is collaborating closely with J.K. Rowling, Warner Bros. Consumer Products and the Warner Bros. Harry Potter brand team to ensure that The Wizarding World of Harry Potter will be an experience of a lifetime. The Harry Potter films’ production designer, Stuart Craig and art director, Alan Gilmore, in cooperation with a corps of artisans from Universal Creative are working daily to construct the most authentic Harry Potter experience possible. Guests will be able to sip Butterbeer in Three Broomsticks, buy Extendable Ears at Zonko’s and experience a state-of-the-art attraction that brings the stories of Harry Potter to life in a way never before imagined.

“All of the action and adventures of Harry Potter’s world will come to life here at Universal Orlando Resort,” said Tom Williams, chairman and CEO, Universal Parks and Resorts. “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter will be unlike any other experience on earth and we can’t wait to see the looks on our guests’ faces as they enter this rich environment.”

“Harry Potter continues to spark the imaginations of fans of all ages and we really have seen the anticipation continue to build for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter,” added Brad Globe, President, Warner Bros. Consumer Products. “We are excited to share with fans a first glimpse into the truly enchanted world we are bringing to life with all of our partners at Universal Orlando Resort.”

From the front archway of Hogsmeade to the immensity of Hogwarts castle, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter will feature the locations listed below:

• At the entrance of Hogsmeade, billowing steam and an iconic whistle signal the arrival of the Hogwarts Express into Hogsmeade station
• Across the way is Zonko’s, a joke shop with a collection of tricks and jokes, including Extendable Ears, Boxing Telescopes and Sneakoscopes
• Honeydukes is next door and full of treats like Chocolate Frogs and Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans
• The Three Broomsticks and adjacent Hog’s Head pub will feature traditional British fare and drinks including Butterbeer and pumpkin juice
• Across from the Three Broomsticks is The Owlery, where owls roost and await their next delivery
• The Owl Post sends letters with a certified Hogsmeade postmark and sells official stamps from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
• Ollivanders wand shop is an incredible interactive experience where the wand chooses the wizard
• Completing Hogsmeade is Dervish and Banges, the magical instruments and equipment shop featuring Quidditch equipment, Triwizard apparel, Spectrespecs and Remembralls
• The first attraction, Dragon Challenge, features a twin high-speed roller coaster with many iconic elements from the Triwizard Tournament
• Next is Flight of the Hippogriff, a family coaster simulating a Hippogriff training flight over the grounds of Hogwarts castle
• Located in Hogwarts castle, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is a thrilling new state-of-the-art attraction that uses entirely new technology to bring the magic, characters and stories of Harry Potter to life in ways never before experienced
o Before exiting back into Hogsmeade, Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods is full of Ministry of Magic and magical creatures merchandise, Omnioculars, and even remote control Golden Snitches

“This Universal Creative and Warner Bros. team shares an incredible passion and commitment to making this destination an exceptionally immersive environment that will touch the lives of our guests,” said Mark Woodbury, President, Universal Creative.

“The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is yet another way that fans will be able to experience and enjoy Harry Potter for many years to come,” said Diane Nelson, President of DC Entertainment, who is also responsible for overseeing the Harry Potter brand team worldwide. “The power of this brand speaks for itself, as the enthusiasm of our dedicated fans around the world continues to grow even stronger as we move into the future.”

Universal Orlando Resort is a theme park destination that places you and your family in the heart of pop culture’s most incredible and timeless stories – making you the superstar in a world-class adventure story and allowing you to discover your own inner hero. Guests experience two exciting theme parks – Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure as well as Universal CityWalk, a 30-acre restaurant, shopping and nighttime entertainment complex; and three magnificently themed on-site hotels – the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel and the Loews Royal Pacific Resort. Flagship experiences featured in the theme parks include “The Simpsons Ride,” “Revenge of the Mummy – The Ride,” “The Incredible Hulk Coaster” and “The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man.” More information is available at www.universalorlando.com.

Warner Bros. Consumer Products, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, is one of the leading licensing and retail merchandising organizations in the world.

Harry Potter continues to be a global phenomenon. The series of books by author J.K. Rowling has been translated into 67 languages with more than 400 million copies sold in over 200 territories around the world. The films, produced by Warner Bros. Pictures, have grossed more than $5.3 billion at the box office worldwide, making Harry Potter the largest-grossing film franchise in history.

# # #

HARRY POTTER characters, names and related indicia are trademarks of and © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Harry Potter Publishing Rights © JKR.
(s09)

Book your spring vacation now with Orlando homos to rent

Luxury 3 and 4 bedroom pool homes at Highlands Reserve and 3 and 4 bedroom town homes at Regal Palms Resort

SPECIAL REGAL PALMS VACATION HOME OFFERS

Any 6 or more nights between

September 1 to October 3, 2009

For these special rates!

4 bedroom Town Home

Normally $135 per night.

Special rate $90* per night

EMAIL NOW FOR DETAILS

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ALL offers subject to availability -

*Rates quoted exclude 12% tax

Rentals may be 4 or 5 nights but additional $85 cleaning charge will be added

US ESTA Forms for UK Citizens
ALL UK passport holders without a valid US Visa MUST complete an Electronic System for Travel Authorization or ESTA form prior to traveling to the USA.
Travelers should be aware that this service is free of charge from the US Homeland Security Services web site https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov
You do not have to pay for the service just go to the link above and its FREE

Special Fall Orlando Vacation Home Rates
Check out our special vacation deals with discount rates Highlands Reserve pool homes or Regal Palms Resort townhomes vacation rentals.
Rates from US$90/night plus tax
Orlando homes to rent special offers page

Disney offering free admission to theme parks on birthdays in 2009

NEW YORK — Walt Disney Parks and Resorts on Thursday announced a new promotion to admit visitors free on their birthdays next year.

"Every guest gets in free to one of our parks on their birthday in 2009," Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, said at a news conference in Manhattan.

Visitors will have to show valid identification and proof of birthdate to qualify. Details are available at http://www.disneyparks.com, where birthday visits can be registered in advance.

The birthday offer is part of a larger Disney promotion announced Thursday called "What will you celebrate?" It includes a 30-city tour with public events featuring Disney costumed characters, beginning in Minneapolis on Sept. 25 and ending in Phoenix in February.

Disney will also start running "What will you celebrate?" TV ads featuring kids blowing out candles and brides in limousines.

In addition, the parks will offer buttons to wear that identify guests with phrases such as "Just Married," "Just Graduated," and "First Visit."

"Our goal is to mark the special moments in your life in a way that your family will remember forever," Rasulo said.

Peter Yesawich, a consultant on lifestyle trends, said at the Disney news conference that Americans often arrange vacations around personal milestones such as anniversaries and birthdays. He called the phenomenon "celebration vacations."

Miley Cyrus, star of the Disney show "Hannah Montana," plans to celebrate her 16th birthday at Disneyland in Anaheim, Calif., Oct. 5.

Luxury Highlands Reserve pool homes or Spacious Regal Palms town homes at Special Fall rates.
Check out our Special Offers now www.Orlandohomestorent.com

TravelCity Direct or XL Airways.
Customers who have booked accommodation at Regal Palms or Highlands Reserve through either Travel City Direct or XL Airways may have lost their accommodation.

www.Orlandohomestorent.com still have plenty of availability at Regal Palms for 2008 & 2009.

Please contact us if you need help in rearranging accomodation email
andrew@orlandohomestorent.com

Top 10 Fun Places to Visit

GoldenTravelGuides.com, one of the fastest growing travel companies in the country, released their much-anticipated list of top 10 fun travel destinations for 2006 as reported by their customers.

East Stroudsburg, PA, USA, October 3, 2006 (XTVWorld.Com) -- The number one destination for the year was Las Vegas, followed by Orlando, with the third most happening destination for vacation fun being New York City.

GoldenTravelGuides.com reserves travel in more than 80 top destination cities or regions across the United States. Their travel professionals have been obtaining customer data over the first three quarters of this year in order to identify the most fun travel destinations according to their customers. GoldenTravelGuides.com lists the following as the top 10 most fun destinations: 1. Las Vegas 2. Orlando 3. New York 4. San Francisco 5. Miami (Tie) 5. Ft. Myers/Naples, FL (Tie) 6. Phoenix 7. Atlantic City 8. Key West 9. Punta Cana, D.R. 10.Tunica, MS.

Denny's, America's leader in family dining, is partnering with the Florida Attractions Association and VISIT FLORIDA to offer restaurant guests the opportunity to save money and have fun at one of 34 family-pleasing attractions throughout the state in a promotion known as "Denny's Florida Passport."

"Denny's has been serving Florida residents and visitors for nearly 40 years," said Margaret Jenkins, Denny's Chief Marketing Officer. "We have over 100 of our restaurants involved in the program and it's a terrific way to thank our valued guests. By working with the Florida Attractions and VISIT FLORIDA, we're providing valuable money-saving coupons to vacationing families."

From August 19 through September 29, every guest visiting a Denny's restaurant will receive a 20% off admission coupon to 34 participating attractions. At the same time the attractions will be giving away Buy-One-Get- One Free coupons to Denny's redeemable for a free entree with every entree and two beverages ordered.

The "Denny's Florida Passport" promotion also includes a Grand Prize Vacation Giveaway which allows every restaurant guest to enter to win a four- night stay for four people at the Radisson Resort in Orlando. The winner will receive a five-day rental car, a private guided tour at the Kennedy Space Center, including a guided tour with maximum access to the Visitor Center Complex and lunch with an astronaut, admission with "Acceleration Alley Passes" to Daytona USA and admission with food and drink to Wet'n Wild. Denny's will select the winner in a random drawing on October 2. Tourists can also receive coupons to dine at Denny's at any of the four Official Florida Welcome Center highway locations.

"All visitors to Florida, including Floridians who are exploring their own state, are winners in this Denny's Florida Passport promotion. Saving twenty percent on participating attractions' entry fee, getting a free entree, and participating in a grand prize drawing is the perfect way for our visitors to enjoy the end of the summer season," said Dale Brill, Chief Marketing Officer, VISIT FLORIDA.

PRNewswire

Airline security
Following this morning's police action, security at all UK airports has been increased and additional security measures have been put in place for all flights.
With immediate effect, the following arrangements apply to all passengers starting their journey at a UK airport and to those transferring between flights at a UK airport.
All cabin baggage must be processed as hold baggage and carried in the hold of passenger aircraft departing UK airports.
Passengers may take through the airport security search point, in a single (ideally transparent) plastic carrier bag, only the following items. Nothing may be carried in pockets:

* pocket size wallets and pocket size purses plus contents (for example money, credit cards, identity cards etc (not handbags));
* travel documents essential for the journey (for example passports and travel tickets);
* prescription medicines and medical items sufficient and essential for the flight (eg diabetic kit), except in liquid form unless verified as authentic.
* spectacles and sunglasses, without cases.
* contact lens holders, without bottles of solution.
* for those travelling with an infant: baby food, milk (the contents of each bottle must be tasted by the accompanying passenger) and sanitary items sufficient and essential for the flight (nappies, wipes, creams and nappy disposal bags).
* female sanitary items sufficient and essential for the flight, if unboxed (eg tampons, pads, towels and wipes).
* tissues (unboxed) and/or handkerchiefs
* keys (but no electrical key fobs)

All passengers must be hand searched, and their footwear and all the items they are carrying must be x-ray screened.
Pushchairs and walking aids must be x-ray screened, and only airport-provided wheelchairs may pass through the screening point.
In addition to the above, all passengers boarding flights to the USA and all the items they are carrying, including those acquired after the central screening point, must be subjected to secondary search at the boarding gate. Any liquids discovered must be removed from the passenger.
There are no changes to current hold baggage security measures.
Regrettably, significant delays at airports are inevitable.
Passengers are being asked to allow themselves plenty of extra time and to ensure that other than the few permitted items listed above, all their belongings are placed in their hold baggage and checked in.
These additional security measures will make travel more difficult for passengers, particularly at such a busy time of the year. But they are necessary and will continue to keep flights from UK airports properly secure. We hope that these measures, which are being kept under review by the Government, will need to be in place for a limited period only.
In light of the threat to aviation and the need to respond to it, we are asking the travelling public to be patient and understanding and to
cooperate fully with airport security staff and the police.

JetBlue - Nonstop from Syracuse to Orlando International.
Low-Fare Airline's New Flight Becomes the Only Nonstop Service from Syracuse to Florida . JetBlue Airways (Nasdaq:JBLU) today celebrates the launch of daily nonstop service between Syracuse Hancock International Airport and Orlando International Airport. This is the only nonstop service offered by any airline from Syracuse to any Florida destination. Orlando becomes the airline's second nonstop destination from Syracuse, with regular fares for the new flights ranging from $99 to $299 each way.

Orange County Convention Center Calnedar of events July 2006 - Jan 2007

Date Event

July 2006
Sun 9 - Thu 13 BENEVOLENT & PROTECTIVE ORDER OF THE ELKS

Mon 10 - Thu 13 ANNUAL NATIONAL / TEACH 1ST!

Fri 14 - Sat 15 13TH ANNUAL ORANGE COUNTY COMMUNITY CONFERENCE

Fri 14 CELEBRATION OF 2005 ACHIEVEMENTS

Sat 15 - Sun 16 NECRONOMICON

Tue 18 - Wed 19 AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL 11TH EPISCOPAL DISTRICT

Wed 26 - Sat 29 WORLD FINANCIAL GROUP

Wed 26 - Thu 27 STUDENT LEADERSHIP UNIVERSITY

Wed 26 - Thu 27 HYUNDAI SANTE FE RIDE/DRIVE EVENT

Wed 26 - Fri 28 JUDAH CONFERENCE

Sat 29 DGTRIALS

Sun 30 - Wed Aug 02 AMERICAN ASSN OF PHYSICISTS IN MEDICINE

Sun 30 BARBIZON MODELING CENTER GRADUATION


August 2006
Thu 3 - Sat 5 SOUTHCONFERENCE

Sat 5 ORANGE COUNTY'S NATIONAL ARTS PROGRAM

Sat 5 - Tue 8 ORLANDO GIFT SHOW

Mon 7 - Wed 9 ASSOCIATION OF PUBLIC SAFETY COMMUNICATION OFFICIALS

Mon 7 - Sat 12 GENERAL COUNCIL ASSEMBLIES OF GOD, FOR ASSMBLIES OF GOD FINE ARTS FESTIVAL

Fri 11 - Mon 14 HOT SUMMER BOAT SHOW

Fri 11 INDIA ARIE LIVE

Thu 17 - Sun 20 MISS AMERICA'S OUTSTANDING TEEN PAGEANT

Thu 17 - Sat 19 TUPPERWARE JUBILEE

Sat 19 CAIR ORLANDO ANNUAL BANQUET

Sat 19 AUTISM 5K WALK

Sat 19 2006 FEDERAL COURT INTERPRETER EXAM

Fri 25 - Sun 27 ORLANDO FURNITURE & ACCESSORY MARKET

Sun 27 - Mon 28 PREMIERE BEAUTY SHOW


September 2006
Thu 7 - Sat 9 THE TOY & GAME INDUSTRY FOUNDATION

Fri 8 - Sun 10 THE FLORIDA RESTAURANT & LODGING SHOW/ORLANDO PIZZA SHOW

Sun 10 - Wed 13 AMERICAN SOCIETY OF TRAVEL AGENTS

Tue 12 - Thu 14 NATIONAL ASSN OF ELEVATOR CONTRACTORS

Thu 14 - Sat 16 ARBONNE INTERNATIONAL

Fri 15 - Sun 17 SURF EXPO

Fri 22 - Sun 24 ORLANDO HOME SHOW

Sat 23 - Mon 25 EXPO DREAM BODIES

Tue 26 - Thu 28 YAMAHA UNIVERSITY AND THE 2007 NATIONAL DEALER CONFERENCE

Thu 28 - Sat 30 FLORIDA NURSERY, GROWERS & LANDSCAPE ASSN


October 2006
Thu 5 - Fri 6 FLORIDA ASSOCIATION OF CHRISTIAN COLLEGES & SCHOOLS

Fri 6 O/OCCVB BUREAU LUNCHEON

Sat 7 - Mon 9 INTL ESTHETICS COSMETICS AND SPA

Thu 12 - Sun 15 SOUTHERN WOMEN'S SHOW

Tue 17 - Thu 19 NATIONAL BUSINESS AVIATION ASSOCIATION

Mon 23 - Fri 27 CENTRAL FLORIDA FACILITIES EXPO

Tue 24 - Wed 25 SYSCO FOOD SERVICES OF CENTRAL FLORIDA

Wed 25 - Fri 27 NATIONAL AUTOMATIC MERCHANDISING ASSN

Wed 25 - Thu 26 CONEX CENTRAL FLORIDA

Fri 27 - Sun 29 HAY HOUSE, INC.

Sun 29 - Tue 31 APICS

Mon 30 2006 AUTO GLASS TECHNICIAN OLYMPICS


November 2006
Thu 2 - Sun 5 ACTIVE ISOLATED STRETCHING W/AARON MATTES

Sat 4 WEBSTER UNIVERSITY

Wed 8 - Sat 11 DEMA SHOW 2006

Fri 10 - Sun 12 BEAD & ART GLASS FEST AND MEMORIES SCRAPBOOKING EXPO

Sat 11 MRS. FLORIDA PAGEANT

Sun 12 SOUTHEAST BARBIZON COMPETITION

Sun 12 - Wed 15 INTERNATIONAL ASSN OF EMERGENCY MANAGERS

Wed 15 - Fri 17 RICHARD ROBBINS INTERNATIONAL

Wed 15 - Fri 17 MATCHMAKER 2006

Fri 17 - Sun 19 COMPANY DANCE

Sat 18 - Sun 19 THE INTERNATIONAL HOLIDAY EXPO

Sat 18 NATIONAL HBCU SCHOLARSHIP FUNDRAISER CONCERT

Wed 22 - Sun 26 CENTRAL FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW

Tue 28 - Thu 30 POWERGEN


December 2006
Sat 2 - Sun 3 NATIONAL NUTRITIONAL FOODS ASSN, SE REGION

Mon 4 - Thu 7 I/ITSEC INTERSERVICE TRAINING SYSTEMS MEETING

Tue 5 - Wed 6 NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL AVIATION ASSOCIATION

Fri 8 - Mon 11 AMERICAN SOCIETY OF HEMATOLOGY

Thu 14 - Sat 16 PERFORMANCE RACING INDUSTRY


January 2007
Thu 4 - Sun 7 FLORIDA UNITED NUMISMATISTS

Mon 8 - Tue 9 TRUE VALUE RENTAL MARKET

Thu 11 - Sun 14 SURF EXPO
North/
Thu 11 - Sun 14 SHOOTING, HUNTING AND OUTDOOR TRADE SHOW


Full details www.occc.net

Planned 2006 launches from Kennedy Space Center or Cape Canaveral Air Force Station

August 1

A two-year mission to provide a unique and revolutionary view of the Sun-Earth System.
Launch Windows: 2:42 - 2:44 p.m. and 3:50 - 4:05 p.m.

August 28

STS-115 will deliver a truss and other key components during the Space Shuttle Program's 19th mission to the International Space Station

October 19
THEMIS will study the dynamic and colorful eruptions of auroras.
Launch Window: 1:53 a.m. - 2:12 a.m

2007
June 21
Dawn
The Dawn Mission will be the first time a spacecraft will orbit two planetary bodies on a single voyage as it studies Ceres and Vesta.

August 3
Phoenix is the new Mars lander mission and the first of NASA's scout missions. Phoenix will work to uncover clues in the martian arctic soils about the history of water and potential for habitability.

September 1
Space Tracking and Surveillance System. A U.S. Air Force tracking technology demonstration mission for the Department of Defense Missile Defense Agency.

September 7
The Gamma-ray Large Area Space Telescope (GLAST) will enable astronomers to study how black holes, physicists to study subatomic particles at energies far greater than those seen in ground-based particle accelerators and cosmologists will gain valuable information about the birth and early evolution of the Universe.

You should always check these date at http://www.nasa.gov/missions/highlights/schedule.html

ST. PETERSBURG – Salvador Dali experienced a chaotic era of two World Wars which influenced the artistic movement of Surrealism and Dali’s own work. “Dali by the Decades“ explores his interpretation of these events through an exhibit of oil paintings, drawings and watercolors from Dali compared to photographs, text and graphics from this era of shifting political power, American heroes and destructive forces. The collection will be on display at the Salvador Dali Museum through January 2007. (727) 823-3767. www.salvadordalimuseum.org.

HALLOWEEN IN ORLANDO

Universal – For 19 select nights Halloween Horror Nights 16 will be the most chilling in the event’s history and will feature chilling new haunted houses, more intense scare zones and frightening theme shows. The designers, also known as the “scream team” of Universal Studios Orlando create a celebration involving hundreds of gruesome “scare-actors” and a twisted “Sweet 16” theme. Halloween Horror Nights runs through October 6-8, 11-15, 19-22, 26-29, and 31. (407) 363-8000. www.universalorlando.com.

SeaWorld - is putting a sea-faring twist on with Halloween Spooktacular. This incredible underwater FantaSea stars sea witches, mermaids, pumpkin fish and more to bring the myth of the sea to life. Visitors can dress-up in their favorite costumes and trick-or-treat at the park. At Spooky Spectacular Sleepover, join your favorite SeaWorld characters for an unforgettable breakfast. Spooky nights include October 7, 8, 13, 14 15, 21, 22, 28, 29 and 31. (407) 363-2200. www.seaworld.com.

Cypress Gardens – Get ready to face fears every night this October at PHOBIA, Cypress Garden’s Halloween fright fest with haunted houses and the Black Forest. Spiders, monsters, ghosts, snakes, clowns, heights, falling and darkness are just a few fears unleashed at each “Scare Zone.” For the younger children “Friendly Frights” await with a Boo House and fun Halloween activities. (863) 324-2111. www.cypressgardens.com.

Disney World Orlando
– Take a dive into a tropical reef and visit with familiar sea friends at the unveiling of two Walt Disney World Resort’s “Finding Nemo” themed attractions. At Disney’s Animal Kingdom enjoy singing and dancing Dory-style at “Finding Nemo –The Musical”. The Living Seas Pavilion at Epcot opens a whimsical and visually stunning show starring “Finding Nemo” favorites swimming amid the live marine life of the Seaspavilion’s huge aquarium. (407) 934-6707. www.disneyworld.com.

ORLANDO– The Mennello Museum of American Art presents a rare opportunity for American art enthusiasts to study remarkable works of art in the exhibit “From Cassatt to Wyeth: American Masterworks from the Mitchell Museum“ November 3 -February 25. For the first time this entire collection of American paintings and drawings are permitted to travel to a handful of venues while the Mitchell Museum in Chicago
to a handful of venues while the Mitchell Museum in Chicago undergoes an expansion.
The arrangement is comprised of works such as Mary Cassatt’s “Young Woman Nursing Her Child” and Andrew Wyeth’s “Winter Furrows” from the late19th and early 20th century. (407) 246-4278. www.mennellomuseum.com

ICE - Gaylord Palms Resort
It might be 95 now but its going to get cold - very cold- in fact down to 9 degrees!!!!

Who says the holidays in Florida are all about palm trees and sunshine? Prepare for the coolest winter on record as Gaylord Palms™ Resort presents ICE! An instant dose of winter, this spectacle is made from nearly two million pounds of ice!

This year, ICE! will feature several new and revised scenes, including a new train depot with a 3-car locomotive you can walk through, a heartwarming Victorian holiday home scene with a life-sized horse-drawn carriage you can sit in, the whimsical Santa's Toyland, and a majestic Church in the Woods. Back by popular demand, the breathtaking life-size nativity carved completely of crystal-clear ice. And, of course, three fantastic ice slides will return amid a towering Christmas Castle.

Put away the flipflops, this event is a chilly 9 degrees! But, don't worry, we've got plenty of parkas to keep you warm!

ICE! will be open daily from November 18, 2006 - January 2, 2007, including holidays. Tickets for ICE! will go on sale October 1.

NOTE: ICE! is kept at a frigid 9 degrees. Be sure to dress appropriately; closed toe shoes and long pants are required. Hooded parkas will be provided for your warmth and comfort inside the exhibit.

www.gaylordpalms.com/ice

New Atlantic Route
- Flyglobespan, Liverpool's (UK) John Lennon Airport's latest airline, has today announced that it will commence daily flights direct to New York from May 2007. The news brings JLA its first scheduled transatlantic service.

The news that Liverpool's historic links with New York, previously associated with the strong maritime heritage of both cities, is now to be re-established by an air link, was made at a press conference appropriately held at the top of the city’s famous Liver Building - scene of many departing passengers bound for New York by sea.

flyglobespan's flights from JLA will commence on 25th May 2007 to the "Big Apple's" popular Newark Airport, with fares starting at only £149 per sector including taxes. flyglobespan will operate two cabins on their Boeing 757 aircraft with 22 of the 189 seats in business class and the remainder economy. The business cabin fare will start from £299 per sector including taxes with 22 business class seats with full individual in-flight entertainment, dedicated priority check-in and the use of an airport executive lounge. Champagne will be offered prior to departure and during the flight passengers will enjoy gourmet meals served with fine wines.

Seats from New York to Liverpool will also be on sale in the USA from only $259 per sector including taxes with the added benefit of the route attracting vital tourist and business numbers from the States into the area.


More details
FlyGlobespan - www.flyglobespan.com or
John Lennon Airport - www.liverpooljohnlennonairport.com

ORLANDO International Airport (MCO)
– For the convenience of visitors picking up arriving passengers in private vehicles at Orlando International Airport, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority Board has approved the development of a complimentary 100-space cellular phone parking lot on South Airport Boulevard.

"The operation of the lot will increase roadway capacity because it will minimize congestion on airport entrance road, provide freer movement on terminal loop roads and circulation on baggage claim curbs. Most of all, it will provide a higher level of customer service," says Chris Schmidt, Deputy Executive Director of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority. Federal security requirements have eliminated the ability for motorists to wait for passengers on the arriving flights curb resulting in vehicles circling around the terminal roadway system.

The lot will be situated on a portion of the current Red Satellite Lot in a convenient location south of the main terminal building. The lot allows drivers to wait until notified of their passenger’s arrival and baggage pick-up before driving to the arriving flights curb. In considering the lot location, it was important that there was close proximity to the terminal, easy entrance and exit at a traffic signal and that the construction could be both speedy and economical.

The project is expected to be completed by the Thanksgiving holiday travel season.

Orlando International Airport served more than 34.1 million passengers in 2005 making it the 12th busiest airport in the nation, 21st busiest in the world and busiest in Florida.

AirTran Airways Flights Sale
-Air Tran Airways launch a sale for flights to all of the airline's destinations with fares starting as low as $59* each way. Travelers may purchase these sale fares at airtran.com or via AirTran Airways' reservations system at 1-800-AIR-TRAN. For Spanish, call 1-877-581-9842.

These special fares are available for purchase through July 11, 2006, are good for travel through November 15, 2006, and are valid for travel on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Like all AirTran Airways fares, prices included in this sale are available for one-way travel and do not require a roundtrip purchase or a Saturday night stay.

Following is a sample of the one-way fares. Fares listed require a 14-day advance purchase and are valid in either direction:

Tuesday/Wednesday Mon/Thur/Sat
Atlanta - Orlando $79 $89
Baltimore - Tampa $79 $89
Newark - Orlando $109 $124
Seattle - Tampa $169 $179
White Plains, N.Y. - Orlando $59 $79

Why not take adavantage of these great fares and spend a few days in one of our Luxury homes at Highlands Reserve Championship golf course.
For mor info on our homes look at our web site Orlando Homes to Rent

*All fares are one-way. All fares are non-refundable and a $50 fee per person applies to any change made after purchase plus any applicable increase in airfare. Fourteen-day advance purchase required. Tickets must be purchased by July 11, 2006. Travel must be completed by November 15, 2006. Lowest advertised fares are valid for travel on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Additional sale fares are valid for travel on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Fares are not valid for travel on Fridays or Sundays. Seats are limited, subject to availability and may not be available on all flights. Blackout date is September 4, 2006. Fares, routes and schedules are subject to change without notice. Fares do not include per-segment tax of $3.30. A segment is defined as one takeoff and one landing. The September 11th security fee of up to $10 is not included.

Airport Passenger Facility Charges of up to $18 are not included.

Jet Blue Announce New Nonstop Service Between Syracuse and Orlando

Service Begins July 20, Fares Start at $99(a), Plus - Fourth Daily Nonstop to New York’s JFK Starts November 1 --

NEW YORK - JetBlue Airways (Nasdaq:JBLU) today announces new nonstop service from Syracuse-Hancock International Airport to Orlando, FL. Flights feature its award-winning service, 36 channels of DIRECTV(r) programming and roomy, all-leather seats. Daily nonstop service will begin July 20, with regular fares ranging from $99(a) to $299(a) each way.

Universal to use solid-state lasers in show

A new generation of compact laser display equipment is a key technology that will be used in Universal 360: A Cinesphere Spectacular, the new nightly show that opens July 1 at Universal Studios.

Slow the pace down an try a scenic Lake Cruise
Clermont's Sunshine Express, takes advantage of one of Lake County's strongest resources: its abundance of lakes. Based at the marina on Lake Susan
just off Hwy27 between lakes louisa and Minnehaha.

Sunshine Express operate a 42-foot pontoon boat that will cruise the Clermont chain which runs from Lake Louisa south of Clermont to Lake Emma in the Villa City area north of Groveland. There it connects to the Harris Chain of Lakes via the Palatlakaha River. The Clermont chain has been officially designated by the state as Outstanding Florida Waters. The major lakes in the chain are Lake Minneola, Lake Minnehaha and Lake Louisa.

The Sunshine Express cruises either head south to Lake Louisa, or north to Lake Minnehaha -- both directions for the longer cruises. The scenery ranges from unspoiled cypress shoreline to some high density boathouses and conventional homes. Sunset cruises run Wednesdays, Thusdays, Fridays and Sundays. Lunch cruises operate Wednesdays through Sundays, and dinner cruises are on Saturdays.

Sunset cruises in the Sunshine Express cost $10 per person. Lunch cruises are $20 and dinner cruises are $30. Sunshine Express is booking breakfast cruises at $17 per person.

For more information, call 352-243-9227.

Safety advice
Many overseas visitors rent vacation homes from us at Orlando Homes to Rent and a couple of usefull web sites are
www.myflorida.com
http://www.dot.state.fl.us/Safety/ped_bike/laws/ped_bike_pedLaws.htm

Orlando International Airport
Orlando International(MCO) has a very helpfull & informative web site http://www.orlandoairports.net/goaa/main.htm
If you are flying in to Orlando for the first time it is worth taking a look.

Windsor Hills Resort
- is a brand new development which builds on the success of the nearby Windsor Palms Resort. Located just minutes from Walt Disney World, the five-star resort facilities include a beach pool, clubhouse and games room. The Windsor Hills Resort will be the vacation resort of choice for families seeking the best in Orlando vacation rentals.

This private, secure guard, gated community features the best amenities any resort has to offer.

Some of the features include:
• Double Olympic sized, lagoon style pool, complete with fountains
and waterslide, toddler pool and waterfalls
• Spa
• State-of-the-art fitness center
• Most impressive high definition surround sound movie theater
• 7500 sq foot clubhouse overlooking the pool with work out room,
video arcade, games room, video rentals and convenience store
• Outdoor activities: table tennis, sand volleyball, tennis, basketball,
playground, giant chess set and gazebo.

To compliment the wonderful attractions, we are offering a choice of two brand new 3 bedroom / 2 bathroom condos in which to relax after a hard days entertainment. The condos are on the first floor of the same block and each condo sleeps up to 8 so a party of 16 could be accommodated.

They are furnished to a high standard comprising lounge with sleeper sofa, dining room, a king, a queen and twin bedrooms all with TV and VCR or DVD, two ensuite bathrooms, fully equipped kitchen with oven, microwave, washer, dryer, a screened lanai / balcony and air conditioning throughout.

Full details www.simplystay.com or email andrew@simplystay.com

Regal Palms Resort at Highlands Reserve
Special Deals- Orlando Homes to Rent have a spacious 4 bedroom private pool home with full access to the water park and other facilities at Regal Palms Resort.
On selected dates up to October 1, 2006 only US$145/night including tax minimum 6 nights.
On bookings of 4 or 5 nights an additional US$85 cleaning charge will be added.
Full details of this offer on www.regalpalmsathighlandsreserve.com

Orlando International Airport (MCO) - Baggage handling & Customer service improvements

- A plan to expedite passenger screening and improve customer service at Orlando International Airport (MCO) was approved by the board of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority at its April meeting. A new Baggage Handling and Customer Service Representative System will begin operations at Orlando International in mid May.
The program will deploy staff from a private baggage handling company (PrimeFlight Aviation Services, Inc.) to provide line queue management, divesting assistance for those in line and movement of baggage in the terminal.
"This program, working in partnership with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), will expedite the screening process by allowing those agents currently performing these functions to concentrate on baggage and passenger screening. This will enhance the overall customer service experience at Orlando International as we enter into the busy summer travel season," says Steve Gardner, Interim Executive Director for the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority.
The new Baggage Handling and Customer Service Representative System at MCO is believed to be one of the only programs of its type in the nation and it will work in conjunction with the country’s only registered traveler program (CLEAR), which has recently enrolled 20,000 members, to help enhance customer service at Orlando International Airport.
Orlando International is the busiest passenger airport in Florida with over 34.1 million travelers in 2005.

F1 USA Grand Prix may be held in Daytona from 2007
“The road course at Daytona is a perfect place for Formula One to call home in the U.S.,” said Formula One boss Ecclestone. “It also opens the F1 schedule to new possibilities due to the ability to hold the race during the warm Florida winter.”

Daytona is within easy driving distance from Orlando so why not bring the family and stay in one of our luxury homes where you will have all the theme parks, Golf and much more right on your doorstep. Orlando is the ideal location to stay and Orlando Homes To Rent have the perfect homes for you.
Check them out on our web site Orlando Homes To Rent www.orlandohomestorent.com

Disney Magic could be cruising European waters this summer
Disney Cruise Line is expected to announce the Disney Magic cruise ship, which is based at Port Canaveral, will be taking a European vacation in summer 2007.

Disney officials would not discuss specific details but rumour are that Disney plans to offer European cruises on the Magic, from May to August 2007, with possible stops in England, France and Italy. There likely will be "repositioning cruises" from Port Canaveral to Europe in May; and from Europe to Port Canaveral in August.

Neiman Marcus to open outlet

Department store Neiman Marcus to open an outlet center at Prime Outlets in Orlando, according to mall owner Prime Retail Inc. The 28,000-square-foot outlet will be called Neiman Marcus Last Call Clearance Center and is expected to open in 2007. Neiman Marcus has a department store at Mall at Millenia.

SNOWBIRD SPECIALS - Orlando Fl.
Simplystay.com are offering special rates for rentals of 3 weeks or more at their Regal Palms Resort Town Homes in January/February 2007.
Regal Palms incorporates a club house with 24-hour check-in facility, sports pub broadcasting live events worldwide, casual dining, arcade, business center, meeting facilities, fitness center and a large swimming pavilion complete with waterslide, lazy river and sunbathing terraces.
Located close to theme parks and next to Highlands Reserve Championship Golf course and Publix supermarket.
www.Simplystay.com

FLYWHO - Birmingham England to Florida
UK Based Flywho (THE AIRLINE WITH THE LONG LEGROOM!) Launch twice weekly flights to Florida from July 8, 2006.
The two class carrier will fly from Birmingham England to Sanford FL twice weekly and to St.Petersburg/Clearwater once a week in conjuction with Go Visit America.
www.flywho.com/
Why not stay in one of our luxury vacation homes Orlando Homes To Rent

New Wal Mart Super Store
204,000sq ft new store opens south of Clermont at 1450 Johns Lake Road.
Store features
• Full line of groceries, bakery goods, deli foods, frozen foods, meat and dairy products and fresh produce, apparel and accessories, fine jewelry, lawn and garden center, health and beauty aids, full line of electronics, Tire & Lube Express, vision center, Blimpie restaurant, portrait studio, one-hour photo lab, pharmacy, Smart Style hair salon, Regal nail salon, SunTrust Bank branch, Murphy USA gasoline station and a Wal-Mart Connect Center
• Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week
• 22 full-service, eight express and four self check-out lanes

Universal Orlando - Abolish Universal Express
Universal Express the service that allowed visitors to skip an occasional long line is switching entirely to its Express Plus service, in which people pay extra money for the privilege of cutting lines all day.
Working a bit like Disney's FastPass service, Universal visitors could obtain free reservations to come back later, at one of two specified times, and skip the long line in favor of a much shorter Express line.

Universal introduced the alternative, Express Plus, in 2003. In that program, visitors pay extra -- a fee that ranges from $15 to $50 depending on the season and package -- for a pass that allows them to get into any of the Express lines, any time.
Express is out and Express Plus is in, Universal spokesman Tom Schroder said. The Universal Express pass dispensers will be removed, he said.

"Express Plus allows guests to have front-of-line access to all of our attractions whenever they want to," Schroder said. "Our regular Express system allowed guests to choose a window of time, a reserved time. What we were finding is guests were only able to go to one or two attractions a day with it, and they told us it didn't really enhance their experience."

A Disney spokesman said Walt Disney World has no plans of getting rid of FastPass.

Universal Orlando - Abolish Universal Express
Universal Express the service that allowed visitors to skip an occasional long line is switching entirely to its Express Plus service, in which people pay extra money for the privilege of cutting lines all day.
Working a bit like Disney's FastPass service, Universal visitors could obtain free reservations to come back later, at one of two specified times, and skip the long line in favor of a much shorter Express line.

Universal introduced the alternative, Express Plus, in 2003. In that program, visitors pay extra -- a fee that ranges from $15 to $50 depending on the season and package -- for a pass that allows them to get into any of the Express lines, any time.
Express is out and Express Plus is in, Universal spokesman Tom Schroder said. The Universal Express pass dispensers will be removed, he said.

"Express Plus allows guests to have front-of-line access to all of our attractions whenever they want to," Schroder said. "Our regular Express system allowed guests to choose a window of time, a reserved time. What we were finding is guests were only able to go to one or two attractions a day with it, and they told us it didn't really enhance their experience."

A Disney spokesman said Walt Disney World has no plans of getting rid of FastPass.

“World’s Fair for Kids.”
The first “World Fair for Kids” takes place April 15th through the 23rd at the Orange County Convention Center. Quasi, an intelligent robot for kids created by Carnegie Mellon University, is the official mascot. Guests will be invited to check out the latest in virtual video sports games and at least nine Guinness World Record attempts will be made. (Your family can be part of history by joining an attempt to break the world record for the largest number of people to jump rope simultaneously on April 17th.) Popular characters and celebrities will sign autographs, and the event will include non-stop live music from performers like Whizkid recording artist Jillian Wheeler, television star and singer Raven Symone, country music artist Billy Ray Cyrus, and many others. Single-day passports cost $29.95 each, and multi-day passports are $59.95 per person. Kids under three attend free. www.orlandoinfo.com

Universal Orlando - Free Children Tickets
Universal is offering free tickets to children ages 3-9 when their parents buy two-day, two-park tickets over the Internet.

The deal might be permanent if it works. For at least through July 31, a child can get in free for each $99.95, two-day, two-park pass a parent buys. A similar children's ticket previously cost $99.95. Children younger than 3 already get in free.

Ginn Clubs & Resorts LPGA OPEN
The Ladies PGA Tour kicks off the 2006 season with the inaugural event at Ginn Clubs& Resorts - Reunion Resort Orlando Florida.
With a Purse of $2.5m making this the top prize money event of the LPGA year.
The event will be played over a composite course of Reunion's Arnold Palmer's Legacy and Tom Watson's Independence Courses.
Pro-Am April 26, 2006
Open April 27 -30, 2006

Orlando Homes To Rent are offering a special accommodation package for those wishing to stay in the area. Anyone booking a minimum of 5 nights stay in one of their Luxury vacation homes will receive 4 free rounds of golf per booking, at the Highlands Reserve Championship course. For full details email home@orlandohomestorent.com

Useful contacts
LPGA.com
Ginnopen.com
reunionresort.com

Walt Disney Co., the world's largest theme-park operator, set a holiday-season attendance record at its Walt Disney World resort in Florida.
Crowds were so heavy at Disney World the week after Christmas that the Magic Kingdom parking lot was closed briefly one day as it reached capacity in the early afternoon.
Overall, 2005 was a strong year for attendance at Disney World's four theme parks, with the Magic Kingdom coming in again as the most-visited park in North America and the world.
More than 16 million people visited the park, a 6.5 percent increase, according to figures from Amusement Business, a trade publication.

Expedition Everest - Disney's Animal Kingdom's newest attraction
Ancient legend holds that high in the Himalayan Mountains lives an enormous creature that fiercely guards the route to Mount Everest.

Now that legend roars dramatically to life in a new runaway train adventure that combines coaster-like thrills with the excitement of a close encounter of the hairy kind.

Expedition Everest is part of the 18-month "Happiest Celebration on Earth," the jubilee honoring 50 years of Disney theme parks and commemorating the 1955 opening of Disneyland. The celebration began May 5, 2005, with the launch of the largest lineup of new shows and attractions and continues through 2006.

Walt Disney World guests will discover for themselves the fearsome lore of the yeti when Expedition Everest peaks in early 2006 at Disney's Animal Kingdom theme park. Aboard out-of-control railcars screaming forward and backward, white-knuckle adventurers swoop into the unknown, braving twists, turns and drops inside and outside a mighty mountain leading to an unforgettable encounter.