Orlando Parks, Hotels, and More
May 7, 2013 by Van Shipley
Filed under Orlando
The year is flying by and vacation time is here! It’s never too early to begin booking your trip, so take a look at the different hotels and lodging that we offer in this top Florida town, and get started on your trip today!
Quality Inn International Hotel, a Rosen Hotel
If you are looking for an inexpensive but clean and nice property located near exciting attractions, then the Quality Inn International Hotel is the choice for you. Less than a mile from exquisite activities like Titanic – The Experience, Treasure Tavern Burlesque, Comedy, and Magical Dinner Show, and Wet ‘n Wild Orlando, you won’t have to travel far to enjoy your stay, all the while keeping a few extra dollars in your wallet. The hotel includes an outdoor heated pool, two on-site restaurants, and all rooms include a microwave and refrigerator. For reservations and to see more information, visit us at http://www.vacationsmadeeasy.com/OrlandoFL/lodging/QualityInnInternationalHotelaRosenHotel.cfm
Coco Key Hotel and Water Resort-Orlando
With an on-site waterpark, five restaurants and bars, outdoor pool, and hot tub, you’ll never have to leave the resort! The Coco Key Hotel and Water Resort does happen to be conveniently located close to multiple attractions and also offers a complimentary shuttle which will take you to and from such exciting destinations as Aquatica, SeaWorld, and Universal Studios. Guests will enjoy the refrigerators located in every room and the on-site fitness center. Reserve your room or check for more information at http://www.vacationsmadeeasy.com/OrlandoFL/lodging/CocoKeyHotelandWaterResort.cfm
Disney Parks and Adventures
Of course people of all ages will enjoy going to Walt Disney World! And with over 20 themed resorts, you’ll be able to find the perfect something for your vacation. Some of the most popular resorts include Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, where guests can witness wildlife grazing outside of their rooms on the Animal Kingdom grounds, Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, where the property contains Disney movie motifs, and Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, where you will find yourself in a tropical Caribbean theme. These are just a few of the many properties that Disney World has to offer, so check us out for more details and to get started on your vacation at http://www.vacationsmadeeasy.com/OrlandoFL/activity/iWaltDisneyWorldregiThemeParks.cfm
We also offer activities galore on our website, and you can bundle them together with a hotel to create your very own vacation package. So get started on your vacation today, and make it simple with Vacations Made Easy!
Enjoy A Night On The Town In Orlando
April 18, 2013 by Shannon Walter
Filed under Orlando, VME
The bustling city of Orlando boasts hundreds of great shows, attractions, outdoor adventures, and much more! Check out some of our favorite shows in the Orlando area. You might just have to extend your vacation so you can see them all!
Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show
You’ll be blown away by the magic and comedy of Tony Brent at the Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show! Brent has been performing sleight of hand for more than 15 years and his experience definitely shines in this show. Like most magic shows, the show relies heavily on audience participation so get your assistant hat on for this show! Minds will be read, things will vanish and reappear, and predictions will come true at this fabulous show. At the show, enjoy unlimited pizza, salad, popcorn, beer, wine, soda, and dessert for dinner. You’ll love the food, the comedy, and the magic at the Outta Control Magic Comedy Dinner Show! For more information, click on this link.
Blue Man Group Show at Universal Orlando Resort
“Yo, listen up, here’s a story about a little guy that lives in a blue world and all day and all night everything he sees is just blue like him…” Eiffel 65 penned the song but three men are living the blue life in Orlando. The Blue Man Group Show is described as avant-garde performance art. It’s a combination of music, comedy, science and much more that captivates audiences again and again. Using experimental instruments, cutting edge technology, multimedia, and silent comedy, the three men wow the audience with their stunningly visual show. The group stays in character as silent performers throughout the show and even after when they sign autographs using a smudge of paint from their face. This is a must-see show! For ticket information, visit our website.
Arabian Nights Dinner Attraction
Embark on a tale of adventure and romance at the Arabian Nights Dinner Attraction. The show is about an all-American girl and champion rider who discovers that she is a princess. Along with her genie, Abracadabra, she decides to travel the world in search of her true prince, who must love horses as much as she does. So she sets her sights on Europe where she comes across military-style quadrilles. Next, she heads to Latin America to see garrochas in actions. With no luck, she makes her next stop at a Gypsy camp to see fascinating horseback riding acrobatics. Finally, she returns to America to see the fabulous talent in the USA. Will she find her true love in any of those places? Find out at the American Princess show at the Arabian Nights Dinner Attraction in Orlando! For ticket prices, visit this link.
Take a Fun in the Sun Vacation in Orlando
April 5, 2013 by Shannon Walter
Filed under Orlando, VME
Next week’s Orlando weather is perfect for a Spring getaway! Sunny skies are expected Saturday, April 6 through Wednesday, April 10. So pack up your gear and head to Orlando for some fun! Check out some of our favorite stops in “The City Beautiful.”
First, head to the gulf to cruise the ocean blue on a quest to find beautiful dolphins! On Orlando’s Dolphin Encounter Tour, you will have the chance to see the majestic sea mammals in their natural habitat in the Gulf of Mexico. Dolphins are often regarded as one of Earth’s most intelligent animals. Though it is hard to determine their intelligence, there is one thing we know to be true, dolphins are playful! They pop out of the water often, something known as spy-hopping, to view their surroundings and communicate with other creatures. The tour lasts about 12 hours so you’re guaranteed to see the dolphins swimming, playing, and jumping right next to your boat! For more information on the location and ticket prices for this fun-filled tour, follow this link.
See high-flying acrobats and spectacular contortionists at Cirque du Soleil La Nouba. The multitude of fantastic performers will amaze you in a show that you won’t want to tear your eyes away from. The acts include jugglers that you’ll have to see to believe, high wire artists that defy gravity, trick cyclists doing tricks with a bicycle that don’t seem possible, and flying trapeze artists to name a few. This is a must-see show! For more information about ticket prices and show times, visit our website.
Orlando Zipline Tours at Florida EcoSafaris
Enjoy an outdoor adventure on your vacation with a zipline excursion at Florida EcoSafaris, a 4,700 acre eco-ranch and wildlife conservation area. The zipline will take you soaring through trees over the wetlands and Pine Flatwoods. You’ll be glad you’re high in the trees because you’re likely to spot alligators, black bears, and even the endangered Florida panther. Not thrilling enough for you? Take the tour at night under the stars! Most of Florida’s wildlife is active at night so you will have the chance to see even more animals. No matter what tour you decide on, you are sure to have a blast flying through the skies! For information on the different tours and ticket prices, visit this link.
Soak up the Sun in Florida
March 6, 2013 by Shannon Walter
Filed under Orlando, VME
Spring Break is drawing near for schools across the country! Have you made your plans yet? Florida is the ultimate place to take a Spring Break vacation. So dig yourself out from the snow and ice, throw your swimsuit and sunscreen in a suitcase, and head to the Sunshine State! Check out some of our favorite destinations!
Fort Lauderdale, Florida – Mai-Kai Polynesian Dinner Show
You’ll be transported to Hawaii at Fort Lauderdale’s most celebrated dining and entertaining experiences. The show accurately represents village life in the South Pacific through traditional dances, songs, costumes, headdresses, and, even, fire dancing! The show’s choreographer, a native Polynesian, travels to the South Pacific every year in order to accurately present the lifestyle, culture, and traditions of Polynesia at the dinner show. While you enjoy the show, you’ll have the chance to peruse the extensive menu offering classic oriental dishes and much more! Dine and enjoy at the Mai-Kai Polynesian Dinner Show. For more information about this show, visit our website.
Key West/Florida Keys, Florida – Key West Island T’Ing: Sail, Snorkel, & Kayak Adventure
Jump in the water in the Florida Keys/Key West! Key West is known for its gorgeous waters, dolphin population, and the very long drive to get there. The island is only 7 square miles but it is definitely packed with fun! The Key West Island T’Ing Adventure begins aboard a large catamaran that will sail around the mangrove islands and coral reefs while you enjoy lunch and drinks. Once the captain finds a nice spot, you’ll have a chance to kayak and snorkel around the reefs. For more information about this exciting adventure, visit our website.
St. Augustine, Florida – Old City Helicopters
If you don’t want to trek all the way to the Florida Keys, then make your destination St. Augustine on the northeast coast of Florida. St. Augustine is the oldest continuously occupied settlement in the continental United States. So there is history around every single corner! See the city in style aboard an Old City Helicopter Tour. The company offers several different tours of the area allowing guests to see the beaches, St. Augustine Lighthouse, Old Downtown, Porpoise Point, the Bridge of Lions, and much more! There’s even a sunset flight allowing you to watch the gorgeous sunset from high above the city. For more information about each tour, visit this link.
So, what are you waiting for?! Visit Vacations Made Easy to begin planning your Florida Spring Break today!
Spring Break is Approaching, Visit Orlando to Make it a Memorable One!
February 20, 2013 by Van Shipley
Filed under Orlando, VME
The year is flying by and spring break is fast approaching. It’s never too early to begin booking your trip, and Orlando is a top destination. So take a look at the available properties in this top Florida destination and get started on your trip today!
Quality Inn International Hotel, a Rosen Hotel
If you are looking for an inexpensive but clean and nice property located near exciting attractions, then the Quality Inn International Hotel is the choice for you. Less than a mile from exquisite activities like Titanic – The Experience, Treasure Tavern Burlesque, Comedy, and Magical Dinner Show, and Wet ‘n Wild Orlando, you won’t have to travel far to enjoy your stay, all the while keeping a few extra dollars in your wallet. The hotel includes an outdoor heated pool, two on-site restaurants, and all rooms include a microwave and refrigerator. For reservations and to see more information, visit us at http://www.vacationsmadeeasy.com/OrlandoFL/lodging/QualityInnInternationalHotelaRosenHotel.cfm
Coco Key Hotel and Water Resort-Orlando
With an on-site waterpark, five restaurants and bars, outdoor pool, and hot tub, you’ll never have to leave the resort! The Coco Key Hotel and Water Resort does happen to be conveniently located close to multiple attractions and also offers a complimentary shuttle which will take you to and from such exciting destinations as Aquatica, SeaWorld, and Universal Studios. Guests will enjoy the refrigerators located in every room and the on-site fitness center. Reserve your room or check for more information at http://www.vacationsmadeeasy.com/OrlandoFL/lodging/CocoKeyHotelandWaterResort.cfm
Disney Parks and Adventures
Of course people of all ages can enjoy going to Walt Disney World! And with over 20 themed resorts, you’ll be able to find the perfect something for your vacation. Some of the most popular resorts include Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, where guests can witness wildlife grazing outside of their rooms on the Animal Kingdom grounds, Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, where the property contains Disney movie motifs, and Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, where you will find yourself in a tropical Caribbean theme. These are just a few of the many properties that Disney World has to offer, so check us out for more details and to get started on your vacation at http://www.vacationsmadeeasy.com/OrlandoFL/activity/iWaltDisneyWorldregiThemeParks.cfm
We also offer gift certificates that are available for use on any activity or hotel on our website, so it’s the perfect gift for the student in your family. So get started on your spring break trip today, and make it simple with Vacations Made Easy!
Don’t Miss Bands, Brew, & BBQ at SeaWorld in Orlando
February 6, 2013 by Shannon Walter
Filed under Orlando, VME
February 9 marks the beginning of Bands, Brew, & BBQ at SeaWorld in Orlando, Florida! Lasting until March 17, every weekend visitors will have the chance to enjoy amazing musical artists, yummy BBQ from all over the country, and delicious drinks. The fantastic lineup is as follows:
- Saturday, February 9 – Chris Young with Jerrod Niemann
- Sunday, February 10 – Merle Haggard
- Saturday, February 16 – The Beach Boys
- Sunday, February 17 – Styx
- Saturday, February 23 – Big & Rich
- Sunday, February 24 – Third Eye Blind
- Saturday, March 2 – Daryl Hall & John Oates
- Sunday, March 3 – Darius Rucker
- Saturday, March 9 – Michael McDonald
- Sunday, March 10 – Josh Turner
- Saturday, March 16 – Rodney Atkins with Uncle Kracker
- Sunday, March 17 – Sheryl Crow
Bands, Brew, & BBQ is included with admission. The event area opens at 11:30 am and the concerts will begin at 4 pm. Pickup your tickets to SeaWorld through VacationsMadeEasy and you could be enjoying The Beach Boys, Darius Rucker, Josh Turner, and Styx every weekend! For more information, visit this link.
While you’re there, enjoy the rides, animals, and attractions throughout the rest of SeaWorld’s park! SeaWorld wouldn’t exist without the famous Shamu, so you won’t want to miss the “One Ocean” show, which seeks to educate the audience about the impact that each and every creature makes on the world around us. We are all part of one world, one ocean. Other shows include “A’Lure, The Call of the Ocean,” which features high flying acrobats, and “Clyde and Seamore Take Pirate Island,” a fun show about two lovable seals and their hijinx. Popular rides in the park include the Journey to Atlantis roller coaster and the Wild Arctic helicopter simulator. There is no shortage of fun at SeaWorld! For more information about the park and its attractions, visit this link.
Orlando features hundreds of lodging options throughout the city. From resort hotels with beautiful pools and spacious rooms to skyscraper hotels overlooking the city, you’ll have no problem finding the perfect place to rest your head after an exhilarating day in Orlando! Browse through the options by clicking here.
Escape Cold Winter Weather in Orlando
November 14, 2012 by Shannon Walter
Filed under Orlando, VME
Escape the winter cold that has plagued most of the United States in favor of a warm Orlando vacation! Florida has the sunniest winter climate in the eastern United States because it is the southernmost continental state. The Florida peninsula is surrounded by warm weather year-round and the sun is almost always shining, even in winter! Of course, the further south you travel, the warmer it gets. So the Florida Keys bathes in high 70 degree weather in the winter whereas, just a few hundred miles north, Orlando sits in low 70 degree weather. That all sounds very good compared to the 20 degree and lower weather that northern United States residents are enduring. The most important tip for traveling to Florida in the winter is to dress in lots of layers. The morning temperatures are known to be cool and crisp after a chilly night spent in the 50s, then a couple of hours later it will warm up to 80 degrees. Now that you know all about Florida’s winter weather, check out some of Orlando’s most popular activities for a winter vacation!
Cocoa Beach Thousand Islands Eco-Tour Cruise
Start out your vacation on an excursion to see Florida’s most-famous creatures, dolphins, aboard an island cruise! The Thousand Islands formed during storm surges when sand accumulated into islands due to flood tides. This natural occurrence created a maze of canals around small islands where local animals flourish. On the Eco-Tour cruise, tourists will have the chance to see manatees, bottle-nose dolphins, and a large variety of coastal birds. These animals love playing in the warm water between these islands so tourists will have several chances to see them. Not only will you see playful animals, you’ll also see the beautiful Florida eco-system these creatures have created. Check our website for more information about ticket prices.
Treat yourself to an adventure on your Florida vacation with a parasailing excursion! This high-flying adventure starts on the water near Disney World and lifts you approximately 600 feet in the air for an adrenaline rush that you’ll never forget. While you’re soaring through the skies, you’ll be able to see the skyline of Orlando behind the gorgeous Walt Disney Resort. At the end of the breathtaking adventure, you will be lowered back into the boat without ever getting wet! Why soar through the skies alone? Tourists have the option of riding alone or enjoying parasailing tandem with a best friend. Visit our website for more details.
No vacation can start without planning where to stay. Browse through out comprehensive list of hotels in the area to find exactly what you want with the amenities you’re searching for. Looking to extend your stay? Check out vacation rentals in the area!
Take A Warm Winter Vacation to Orlando
October 31, 2012 by Shannon Walter
Filed under Orlando, VME
The holiday season is approaching meaning that cooler temperatures are hitting most of the United States. So why not head to Orlando this winter to escape the winter weather? Most days during the winter in Orlando, the climate stays in the low 70’s. So escape to Orlando to enjoy a warm weather vacation. While you’re there, check out these fun attractions!
“What do you want to be when you grow up?” Almost every child has answered that question with: Astronaut! At the Kennedy Space Center in Orlando, visitors get the chance to see space ships and their launch pads up close. The in-depth bus tour of the facility includes a visit to the Saturn V Exhibition, the Astronaut Hall of Fame, and Observation Gantry. Experience what it’s like to be in space on the G-Force trainer. Before you leave, you’ll have a chance to meet a real astronaut! The Kennedy Space Center Tour can be combined with several other tours including an Airboat Safari, Astronaut Luncheon, and the Astronaut Training Experience. Why not enjoy life as an astronaut for the day at the Kennedy Space Center! For ticket pricing and vacation package information, visit this link.
‘Ahoy Mateys! If you never thought about being an astronaut, then you most certainly considered being a pirate! Why not relive that dream at the Pirate’s Dinner Adventure? The action-packed show is set aboard an authentic 18th century Spanish ship replication, so audience members will truly feel like they are on a pirate ship. The ship is anchored in a 300,000-gallon indoor lagoon featuring night sky lighting. The audience is seated in six ships scattered throughout the lagoon. Each ship will have the chance to support their own fearless, swashbuckling pirate mascot as he participates in jaw-dropping stunts throughout the show. Actors, singers, and stunt performers will amaze the audience as they are backed by explosions, cannon blasts, and pyrotechnics. Dress the part because more than 150 scallywags from the audience will have the chance to participate in a swashbuckling adventure. This show is perfect for a fun date or an event that the whole family will love. For ticket information, click on this link.
After a busy day sightseeing the city of Orlando you will need to find the perfect hotel. Settle down in a fun-filled Disney resort near Walt Disney World, book a cozy stay in the quiet outskirts of town, or choose a skyscraper hotel for gorgeous view of Orlando!
Spend the Weekend at Walt Disney World in Orlando
October 18, 2012 by Shannon Walter
Filed under Orlando, VME
This weekend, pack up your gear and head to Orlando for the International Dragon Boat Festival! Enthusiasts travel from all over the country to participate in this fun event located in Downtown Disney West Side. Dragon boating originated in southern central China more than 2,500 years ago during the same era that the Olympics were being established in ancient Greece. In China, dragons are traditionally believed to be the rulers of the river. So dragon boating began as an annual water ritual during festival celebrations. Now it is a competitive sport practiced across the world. The rules have changed quite a bit over the last 2,500 years but the tradition remains. Each long boat is affixed with a dragon at the front, it holds 20 paddlers, 1 person to steer, and 1 person motivating at the front. The paddlers strive to work in unison to create a sport that is truly fascinating. So take a break from your Disney vacation to watch this spectacular competition on Saturday October 20!
When you’re done watching the competition, experience the magic in Orlando at Walt Disney World. You are never too old to the beloved Disney character Mickey and all his best pals. This theme park packs the family fun into four different parks: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios. Can’t choose? Pick up Disney’s Magic Your Way Ticket to see everything! The spectacular world of Disney starts in the Magic Kingdom Park where fairy tales come true in a beautiful castle. Cinderella’s iconic castle stands in the middle of the park surrounded by enchanting shows, whimsical rides, and wonderful parades with your favorite characters. Head into the wild in the Animal Kingdom Park where all your favorite Disney animals characters reside. The park is home more than 1,700 animals and 250 species on 500 acres of beautiful African safari landscaping. Take a safari expedition to see exotic animals from Africa up close, travel back to the time of dinosaurs on an interactive ride, or gaze at the 14-story, 50-foot-wide Tree of Life in the middle of the park. You’ll even spot Safari Mickey and Minnie in the park. Next, travel the globe in EPCOT which is split into two parks: Future World and World Showcase. The iconic Spaceship Earth polyhedral welcomes you to explore all the wonders of Future World. The inspiring ride takes you traveling through 40,000 years since the dawn of man. Pavilions surrounding Future World comprise the World Showcase where you’ll learn about different countries all over the world. Kids can grab a passport to take to each pavilion where they’ll receive a country stamp and get the chance to create one-of-a-kind souvenirs. Finally, head to Disney’s Hollywood Studios that holds the infamous Tower of Terror that drops you 13 stories into the Twilight Zone! You’ll also have the chance to go behind-the-scenes on a studio lot, watch as Indiana Jones recreates the most captivating scenes from the movies, or hang out with your favorite Disney/Pixar stars. Pick up tickets for just one day or extend the vacation for 10 days! With so many parks, you’ll never run out of stuff to do! For more information on ticket information, follow this link.
Take your pick from hotels, resorts, and lodges in the area. Find a hotel attached to a gorgeous golf course for the beautiful views and to spend a relaxing day on the course. Book a resort close to Walt Disney World with an attached water park the whole family will love. Choose a comfy hotel with beautiful views of Orlando. Or escape the city to stay close to the gorgeous wetlands surrounding the city. No matter what, you are bound to find the perfect lodging for you and the family!
October Adventures in Orlando
Celebrate Halloween Disney style at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. This special seasonal event transforms parts of Disney’s Magic Kingdom Park into spooky haunted hollows. You’re encouraged to wear a Halloween costume and go trick-or-treating for candy all around the Magic Kingdom. The highlight of the party is Mickey’s Boo to You Halloween Parade, which begins with the ride of the Headless Horseman and features Disney characters in special Halloween costumes. After dark, see a fantastic fireworks display with the Disney Villains. The Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is, of course, not so scary – so it’s appropriate for all ages. This event occurs nightly September 11 – November 2, so there are plenty of opportunities to have an unforgettable Disney Halloween.
Airboat Ride at Night
For a truly spooky Florida adventure, take an airboat ride through the swamp at night. After dark, shadows and sounds make the Everglades especially mysterious. Boggy Creek Airboat Rides offers a one-hour tour to those brave souls who wish to venture into the swamp after dark. Watch carefully when your airboat captain shines lights across the water – alligators’ eyes reflect red in the dark!
Zipline Tours
For another thrilling expedition, try a zipline tour at Florida EcoSafaris. Enjoy a terrific view of Florida’s famous wetlands as you soar overhead on a network of zipline cables. You’ll reach speeds of up to 25 miles per hour and heights of 55 feet above the ground. After your exhilarating zipline ride, visit the Interaction Area to get up close and personal with some of Florida’s unique wildlife.
Disney Theme Parks
No visit to Orlando would be complete without theme parks. Disney’s rides, characters, and magical atmosphere have charmed visitors of all ages for decades. There are Disney park options to suit any group. A one- or two-day ticket lets you choose between Magic Kingdom, Disney Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, or Disney’s Animal Kingdom. If two days of Disney magic isn’t enough, choose a multiple-day pass. Passes for 3 or more days allow you to visit multiple parks each day and also include admission to exciting extras like the Blizzard Beach Water Park, Typhoon Lagoon Water Park, DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive Theme Park, and Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex.



