Universal Orlando

Anjie Naughton on 16 June 2017
ORLANDO JUNE 2017 I was lucky enough to be invited to see all the attractions at Universal Studios and view the properties on site. Including the fabulous and world famous Universal Studios, Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Islands of Adventure, CityWalk and the brand new Volcano Bay (opened in June 2017) Staying at the new Loews Sapphires Falls which is one of the amazing Universal Resorts properties. I can highly recommend this and the other properties as each hotel has a different theme and feel to them - in short, something for everyone. All Universal On-Site hotels allow early park admission to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Volcano Bay one hour before the park opens plus complimentary transportation to the theme parks and CityWalk. Hard Rock hotel – cool and fun. Includes express tickets* and is the closest hotel to the Park (10 minute walk) or catch the ferry. Great entertainment day and night with live bands and movies by the pool. Portofino - Includes express tickets*. Stunning hotel in the style of authentic Portofino, even has narrow, winding streets and picturesque port, you will feel you are in Italy itself. Loews Royal Pacific. Includes express tickets* and walking distance to Universal Studios and CityWalk or catch the ferry. Large pool and relaxed atmosphere. Loews Sapphires Falls. New hotel with largest pool in Orlando. Walking distance to Universal but just as easy to take the frequent ferries. Cabana Bay - great value 50’s style motel. Option for Volcano Bay View room (highly recommended) NEW for 2018 – Aventura Hotel (opening August 2018). Will be modern and stylish. *The Universal hotels offer express tickets to give you early entry to the parks and a chance to see the parks at a more leisurely pace during peak dates. Recommended Universal VIP Experience - highly recommended. We experienced this great enhancement and if your budget can stretch to it or if you have a large group (upto 12) it is definitely worth treating yourself. You will see 10x more than without it! Includes back door shortcuts, hearing all the stories behind the rides and being whizzed straight to the front of the queue was a real luxury. A definite must for those short of time, or patience! Universal Dining Plan - stress-free, flexible and choice across many restaurant choices and food stands across the park. Great value and a must for families on a budget, the snacks and meal portions were very generous Volcano Bay waterpark, featuring the ‘Tapu Tapu’ wristband queuing system, which allowed you to virtually queue and come back to each of the rides when it was your turn to ride. City Walk was easy and enjoyable. This can also be done as a leisurely 15 mins walk, there is a wide selection of restaurant and bar choices along CityWalk, as a vegetarian travelling is often a struggle but I found dining easy here - the portion sizes are not for the faint-hearted though! Dinner and drinks on CityWalk are not too different to UK price but take into account current exchange rates. A starter is usually between $7-10 and main courses are between $12-15. Portions are large, so bear that in mind. Shopping Premium Outlet Mall and the Florida Mall Any questions, feel free to ask. Call me on 01270 560731 - look forward to hearing from you!