bizcor, Author at Magical Stays

Flying And Fashion: 4 Things NOT To Wear On A Plane

When the big day arrives and everyone is packing and preparing for their flight, it is important to remember exactly what a flight is. It’s at LEAST an hour (sometimes over 10!) of being in a small space, with other people, without much control of the temperature. This is not a place to wear an evening gown or tux, but it’s also not the place to wear your favorite “hole-y” pajamas and slippers. Comfort is key when on a long flight, so dress the part. Here are four things to avoid when dressing for a long flight, and a few alternatives.

Really Tight Clothing-
Tight clothing restricts airflow, which could cause your legs/feet to fall asleep during the flight. Tight jeans that cut into your stomach are also not a good idea. Although you may look fantastic in skinny jeans, give yourself some breathing room and opt for cotton or soft linen instead.

High Heels-
Unless you’re walking straight off the plane and into a business meeting, do your feet a favor and wear comfortable shoes. There is nothing worse than trying to get from one side of the airport to the other in uncomfortable high heels. Don’t be that person who is walking barefoot through the airport with your heels in hand because you were trying to be cute. And remember the part about being in a small space with lots of other people? Don’t make them suffer the smell of your feet because you made the choice to be a fashionista on travel day. Sneakers, slip on shoes, even boots will make your trek through the airport more bearable. Your toes will thank you.

Perfume/Cologne-
Although smelling like “Warm September Leaves” or “Rustic Log Cabin” is great for your everyday life, dousing yourself in perfume or cologne right before a flight can be overwhelming for passengers sharing a space with you. Freshly washed clothes and deodorant is all you need and prevents the whole plane from mixing smells and smelling like “Warm September Vanilla Pumpkin Lilac Apple Pie Ocean Cabins.” Less is more in the fragrant department when on a long flight.

Jackets and Other
Bulky Items- You may be going from one temperature extreme to the other, but you can dress appropriately without bulking up. Wearing snowsuits, heavy jackets, and thick sweaters may keep you warm when you reach your destination
but could make the flight a rough (and sweaty) one. Instead, layer your clothing so you can take pieces off when you break a sweat running through the airport or sitting on the tarmac for a long period of time. Remember the part
about not having much control of the temperature on a long flight? Don’t put yourself in the position when the only choice you have is to wear a thick turtleneck sweater for the whole flight. Layers mean options and options mean
ultimate comfort.

Heading to the airport for a family vacation is exciting, but it is important to evaluate your wardrobe before you leave the house to ensure you, and the rest of the family, have the most comfortable flight possible.

Disclaimer: This post could get a little awkward. But not as awkward as it’ll be on the plane if you eat some of these foods before your flight.

Many passengers swing by the food court or sit-down restaurant at the airport before their flight. It’s part of the fun and excitement, to grab a coffee, breakfast, or snack before the highly anticipated flight. However, there are some foods that you should avoid before you board, for your sake and the sake of those sharing a small space (and even smaller bathroom) with you.

Fast Food

This is a hard one to avoid because there are McDonald’s’, Burger Kings, Taco Bells and other fast food restaurants all over most major airports. If you can’t avoid the restaurant, try to avoid the grease. Salads and soups are usually safe options. The body isn’t designed to process super greasy foods very well when you’re on the ground, so why would it be any different up in the air? Really greasy foods + sitting still and squished in a seat for a long period of time could = major discomfort. The greasy food could lead to swollen feet, and in extreme cases, blood clots.

Gassy Foods

This is awkward. However, stinking up the plane because you downed onions, cabbage or beans before your flight will be even MORE awkward. These foods can cause you to feel bloated, and the pressure in the plane can only make it worse. One unlucky passenger was caught striking matches to cover up her conceal her personal issues, and the flight had to make an emergency landing. Talk about embarrassing. Dairy products, wheat and oat bran and asparagus are some of the worst offenders, so steer clear of these to avoid tummy troubles on the plane.

Alcohol

Nervous about the flight? Or nervous about spending the week with your in-laws when you get off of the flight? Either way, avoid using alcohol as a coping mechanism. Alcohol causes dehydration, which is never fun on a small and long flight where you have limited access to drinks. Too much alcohol could cause you to miss your flight or be removed from it. If you must have a cocktail to calm your nerves, counteract the booze with plenty of water

If you have time, prepare a healthy and filling meal the night before the flight that you can grab and go in the morning. Breakfast sandwiches, snacks like chips and pretzels, and pasta are great options because they fill you up without bothering your digestive system too much.

Take care of yourself, and your reputation, by choosing smart foods before a long flight. Once you get to your vacation destination, you can enjoy the foods you’ve been craving!

Many families head to Florida with multiple generations in tow. Grandparents, their children, their grandchildren and sometimes even great grandchildren pack up their bags and head to the Sunshine State to make life long memories.

Families who opt for vacation homes often find luxury vacation rentals with two or more master suites, giving grandparents their own space to relax during the day, their own bathrooms, and large comfortable beds to help them sleep soundly at night. Many vacation rentals have one master suite upstairs and one downstairs, eliminating the need for grandparents to use the stairs, while other vacation rentals are single story homes and put one master suite on either side of the house, ensuring grandparents get peace and quiet when they need it. Finding hotel accommodations for multiple generations can be tricky, uncomfortable, and not to mention expensive. A vacation home is usually the best option when traveling with seniors.

There are two things that is always true about Disney: there is a lot of magic and a lot of walking. Even for the younger generations, walking all day can be exhausting, and standing in long lines can really tire out your feet. Consider renting a wheelchair or scooter before you get to the parks, or rent one when you get there. This will help family member who tire easily still enjoy the parks without feeling weak or exhausted. One perk to using a wheelchair is that there is usually a separate entrance or line onto many of the rides for guests using one. This may alleviate the long lines for the whole crew.

While the younger family members zip through Space Mountain in the dark, cool off on Splash Mountain, or climb and hike through the Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse, seniors can find walking tours that give them a behind the scenes look at some of the things that are easily missed when grandchildren are rushing from one thrill or another. Epcot offers the Gardens of the World tour; a slow paced walking tour that explores the horticulture and gardens of the theme park. The Hidden Treasures of World Showcase at Epcot is another walking tour that explores the various pavilions “around the world.”

At Magic Kingdom, there is a behind the scenes tours that shows you all of the work and secrets that come together to make this place the most magical place on Earth. This one is $60 per person and lasts about 4 hours, and is a great option for grandparents who want a few hours of their own time while the family explores the parks.

Animal Kingdom is a great park for seniors who enjoy animals and beautiful scenery, and is best to try during the “cooler” Florida months (November-February.) There are a lot of shows to see, and animal exhibits that allow families to sit and watch the animals for as long as they’d like.

Traveling with grandparents is a treasure, and seeing them interact with their grandchildren in the happiest place on Earth is priceless. By taking a few of these guidelines into consideration, everyone can have the family vacation of their dreams!

Skull Island Reign of Kong Ride at Universal Studios

If this is not your first time visiting Orlando Florida you may have had the opportunity to ride “Kongfrontation” the old King Kong inspired ride over at Universal’s theme parks. Being that this ride was opened back in 1990 it was one of the “go-to” rides when visiting the New York section of Universal Studios Theme Park.
It was a sad day for us locals when we found out about the closing of the popular Kongfrontation ride back in 2002. Fortunately, now after so many years in the making we are excited to hear that Universal has brought back our beloved Kong and this time in a bigger, more massive adventure!

The new ride called Skull Island Reign of Kong, located at Island of Adventure in between Jurassic Park and Toon Lagoon, has just open its doors this summer 2016 in Orlando, FL.

It had been 7 years since Universal Studios opened a new ride at its Island of Adventures Park. It is awesome news that finally after three years in the making Skull Island Reign of Kong has been completed and opened its doors to the public.

The adventure takes place in Skull Island where researchers are looking for evidence that the Mega Primatus and Gigantapithicus primate species are still alive. In the story Gigantapithecus primates are small compared to Kong measuring 10 feet and weighing about 1,100 pounds, imagine the size of King Kong who measures approximately 25-30 feet tall!!!

Get ready to scream when boarding your expedition vehicle in this 3D ride where you will face Dinosaurs and everything else that is coming your way with digital and physical effects!

I hear you will be greeted by an enormous stone carved Kong head where you will walk through and really get into the theme as you see human skulls and steam coming from the walls!!! Scary isn’t it? Yet I can’t wait to see it for myself.

If you thought you had seen it all, beware Orlando, FL constantly has bigger and greater adventures that will make you and the kids want to come back over and over again!

You definitely will want to add the Skull Island Reign of Kong Ride to your “Things to do this summer
in Orlando List!”

Be sure to check out one of our beautiful homes for your accommodations in Orlando. Providing everything you need in your home away from home, you will have the adventure and relaxation time you so strongly
deserve.

What’s Up With Wet n’ Wild?

For years, Wet n’ Wild has been an iconic part of Orlandovacation history. Since 1977, thousands of families have flocked to the waterpark to cool off during the hot and humid Florida summers. From the highspeed thrills of the Der Sukta, a nearly vertical, 60 foot free fall speed slide, to the cool and calm waters of the Lazy River, Wet n’ Wild has always provided something for the whole family to enjoy.

Sadly, at the end of 2016, Wet n’ Wild will be closing their doors forever. But for families coming to Florida between now and then and considering spending the day at Wet n’ Wild, here are a few things to think about:

1. Get there early– For the rest of the summer, Wet n Wild opens at 9:30, and it is highly recommended to get there before that. If you get there right at 9:30, you’ll spend time waiting in line to get into the parking lot, and then the walk from the parking lot, crossing Universal Blvd., and waiting in line to get into the park will take you another 15-20 minutes. Families who decide to get there closer to 10 or 11 will most definitely spend a lot of time (30-40 minutes at some times) waiting to get into the park.

2. Don’t expect Disney– If you’ve already spent a day at Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach, mentally prepare yourself that Wet n’ Wild is not like either. Some of the rides are a little dated and in need of a paint job. It’s not as themed or detailed as the Disney parks, and generally feels a little older than the other water parks in the area. It’s not Disney, but that also means you don’t pay Disney prices. Tickets to Wet n’ Wild are much cheaper than tickets to the bigger water parks, and depending on the needs of your group, it could be a better option. Many people complained that little things, like the “DJ” broadcasting specials and store promotions over the intercom is a little annoying, or that the cabanas were not as impressive as those at Disney or Aquatica. If you expect Disney at Wet n’ Wild, you’ll leave disappointed.

3. Crowds– Of course, no matter what water park you visit during the summer, you’re going to encounter crowds. Wet n’ Wild has great deals for locals, so weekends can be packed with teens out for the summer and families who live near by. Going during the week is probably your best bet if you are from out of town.

4. Be Mindful of the “Cooler Police”– There are signs in the parking lot about what you can and can’t bring into the parks in regards to coolers, snacks etc. It is also posted on their website. So, don’t be surprised when you finally get through the slightly confusing and sometimes unorganized entrance process, that they will check the size and contents of your cooler, and will give you the option to either throw away the “contraband” or bring it back to your car and do the entry process all over. Save time, embarrassment and hassle by following the guidelines for coolers and backpacks the first time around.

Although the closing of Wet n’ Wild is a sad fact for locals and tourists, it is paving the way for bigger and better things for the Orlando area. Volcano Bay, Universal’s brand new water park will open in 2017, and rumor has it that some of the newer slides and attractions from Wet n Wild will make the trip across the street to Volcano Bay (with brand new themes and paint jobs, of course, to fit with the Polynesian theme of Volcano Bay.) The space
that Wet n’ Wild occupies now will probably be used for more hotels, increasing the options for families coming to Orlando for vacation.

If you are coming to Florida this summer, consider making Wet n Wild part of your trip itinerary. It has the thrill rides, it has the kid rides, and is a less expensive option for a family to cool off during the summer. If you are in search for a “theme park” vibe, Wet n’ Wild falls a little short, but can still be a great place to spend a hot Florida day.

While many people come to Disney to visit Mickey at Magic Kingdom, or take a trip around the world at Epcot, Universal Studios has a lot to offer families when they come to Florida, and there is a big expansion in the works that will add to the action and adventure that Universal Studios is known for.

Volcano Bay is Universal’s newest project, and will be a 28-acre water park with 18 thrilling attractions, all centered around Krakatu, a massive volcano! There are even plans to have water slides on the volcano itself! The volcano will have large waterfalls during the day, and will light up the night with fiery “lava” at night.

The park will have four different areas, with Polynesian and Hawaiian themes, to name a few. In these areas, families can find rides for everyone, from thrilling rides where the floor drops out from under you and sends you speeding down a slide, to calmer attractions like wave pools and lazy rivers. For smaller family members, Tot Tiki Reef will be a safe and refreshing place for kids to play, and Runamukka Reef, a three-story water playground, will be a popular spot for everyone in the family to cool down.

For the more fearless family members, rides like Puihi in the Rainforest Village will get hearts racing for sure. With a zero gravity drop and funnel feature, this multi passenger ride will be fast and exhilarating. If you’re looking for more thrills, the Ohyah and Ohno Drop Slides will twist and turn you before dropping you directly into the water from 6 feet high. Universal is focusing on making this brand new park a place where families can enjoy the rides, and not spend all day waiting in line. They haven’t announced exactly how they’ll do this, but locals and anxious tourists are keeping their eyes and ears open for more news.

There is something about being in the sun and water all day that can really work up an appetite, and Universal plans to have restaurants throughout the park, so families don’t have to head to the front to get a bite to eat.

Universal Studios is an easy drive from Kissimmee, making it easy for families staying close to Disney to add a day at Universal to their dream vacation. Universal isn’t spilling much about the opening day of Volcano Bay, only saying it’ll be 2017 when families can slip and slide on what will be, undoubtedly, one of Orlando’s coolest
attractions.

Diana McCarthy
Magical Stays Vacation Homes

While the younger family members zip through Space Mountain in the dark, cool off on Splash Mountain, or climb and hike through the Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse, seniors can find walking tours that give them a behind the scenes look at some of the things that are easily missed when grandchildren are rushing from one thrill or another. Epcot offers the Gardens of the World tour; a slow paced walking tour that explores the horticulture and gardens of the
theme park. The Hidden Treasures of World Showcase at Epcot is another walking tour that explores the various pavilions “around the world.”

Diana McCarthy
Magical Stays Vacation Homes

Chances are, if you are planning out your Florida vacation, you’ve started to think about what rides you want to ride, what shows you want to see, and what restaurants you want to try. One of the great things about Orlando is that you’re always just a quick drive from great food. From tacos to Thai food, Mexican to Mediterranean, and southern comfort classics to seafood, Orlando has something to satisfy any appetite.

Families who are visiting the parks and opt in for the Disney Dining Plan have the opportunity to purchase meals in advance, and use vouchers throughout their stay at particular restaurants throughout the parks. The very basic package allows families to stop by two fast food type restaurants, have one snack, and allows them to refill their Disney mug throughout the day. The price per adult is $44.13, and for kids 3-9 is $19.04. For seven days, eating snacks and fast food all day, a family of four would pay $884.38.

And that is just the basic package. If you want to be able to enjoy some of Disney’s “sit down” restaurants (which you should because they’re amazing!) A family of four could see a price tag of over $1,200, and that’s not even the most advanced dining package. If you are coming to Disney with no budget and not a care in the world about the money spent, purchasing the Disney Dining plan is probably a good option for your family. However, there are other great options that will allow you to eat a variety of foods without breaking the bank.

The first, and most cost effective tip is to buy groceries when you arrive. Buying cereals for the mornings, milk, juices, sandwich meats, chips, and other easy non-perishable items will allow you to eat breakfast before you get to the parks, and most parks allow you to bring in small snacks to enjoy throughout the day. Families staying in hotels have limited space to keep a lot of groceries, so it is important that they only buy what they need, and plan on making a few trips to the store throughout their stay. Families who opt for vacation rentals have access to full kitchens, cabinet space, and pantries, giving them the space they need to do one big grocery-shopping trip at the beginning of their stay. Access to a stove, microwave, fridge, freezer, and dishwasher also makes eating at home (or making food and taking it to go) a lot easier.

Eating outside of the parks is also a good way to save money but still enjoy the local food options. Venturing just a few miles outside of the “Disney zone” will allow you to enjoy a tasty meal out, without paying Disney prices. Leaving the park is not always easy and convenient, especially if you’re lugging toddlers and strollers and Disney souvenirs, but if leaving the park in the middle of the day makes sense, drive a few miles, enjoy a good meal, and come back for some evening magic at the parks.

Do some research about the rules each park has about bringing in food, drinks and coolers. The water parks are usually stricter about what you bring in, so same yourself some time, energy and embarrassment by following the guidelines and only packing what is allowed. Getting called out by the “cooler inspection patrol” is not a great way to start a day at the theme parks. That being said, take advantage of what you can bring and stock up on water bottles, fruit and other snacks that can get you through the day.

When planning your vacation, leave room in your day (and budget) to enjoy some of the delicious food the city has to offer. By using some of these easy tips, you can save money and still eat like you’re on vacation. (and remember, calories don’t count when you’re on vacation.)

Unless you’ve been under a rock, you’ve heard about the heartbreaking events that unfolded in the past few weeks in Orlando. Many families from across the world have saved for and planned and dreamed about a magical Florida vacation, filled with sunshine and Mickey Mouse popsicles and warm afternoons in the swimming pool. They’ve bought the gear, made the reservations, booked the accommodations and have started counting down the days
for their dream vacation.

And now many are worried that the recent events may have changed the dynamic and feeling of the city. And they’d be right, the city has changed. But maybe not in the way everyone may expect.

When you get to Orlando, you won’t be able to miss the “Orlando Strong” motto posted on signs, t-shirts, bumper stickers and billboards. You’ll notice strangers helping strangers; you’ll notice a very diverse group of people, living together in peace. Everywhere you go, from Disney to Universal Studios, Sea World to the Outlet Malls, you’ll be able to notice the people who are from this beautiful city. They’re the ones that let you in front of them in a long line. They’re the ones who let you squeeze in front of them in traffic with a friendly wave. They’re the ones working at the stores, restaurants and attractions that are genuinely happy to see you. They’re the ones that want you to have a great time here, and love and support your family regardless of where you come from, what you look like, or what language you speak. They’re the ones that don’t sweat the small stuff, because they’ve had to deal with very big, very difficult stuff. They’re the ones that make you and your family feel like you’re part of this city while you’re here.

Orlando HAS changed. We’ve always been the city of Disney and hot summers and roller coasters, but now we’re a city that has been through trauma, and has come up on the other side stronger and better. We have come together in such a profound way in the last few weeks, that we can never go back to how we were. And it’s the tourists, the visitors, the guests, like you, who will really notice the difference. You’ll enter a city that is united in love and solidarity.

You can feel safe here. You can feel accepted and wanted and loved here. You can feel the magic of Disney here, the excitement of Universal Studios here, the awe of Sea World here. You can feel the warmth of the summer sunshine, the coolness of the Florida rain showers, and most of all, the happiness that comes from spending time with your loved ones in one of the happiest cities on Earth.

Yes, we went through some heartbreak. Yes, we were scared and shook up and devastated. But as the news crews leaves, as our story fades from the headlines, we remain a city that is forever changed for the better, and it is families like yours that will get to experience this change first hand when you come to visit.

So stay excited about your upcoming trip! Mark down the days on your calendar, start packing, and order an Orlando Strong shirt so you fit in like the rest of us, and get ready to visit Orlando, a city that is stronger than ever before.

Diana McCarthy
Magical Stays Vacation Homes

When traveling, the last thing you want to hear about, think about or worry about are restrictions. At the airport there are luggage restrictions, at the theme parks there are height restrictions. All of these, of course, are put into place to keep everyone safe and to make things flow smoothly. And if you’re traveling with a restriction of your own, more specifically a dietary restriction, you may find it hard to find a safe place to eat.

However, in true Disney style, the theme parks and resorts on Disney property have thought of everything when it comes to accommodating dietary restrictions. Disney restaurants know how serious food allergies can be, and with a little bit if knowledge and preparation, you and your family can enjoy a worry free meal while at the parks,

According to Disney’s website, they can accommodate the following food allergies:

Gluten or wheat
Lactose or milk
Peanuts and tree nuts
Shellfish
Soy
Fish
Eggs
Corn

Many restaurants offer separate menus with detailed dscriptions of the options that are safe for a particular allergy. Just ask for this menu and one will be provided for you. When eating at a “sit-down” restaurant, mention any serious food allergies to your server right away, so they can take note and make extra precautions to ensure the food you receive is safe. It is important to know that Disney doesn’t have separate kitchens to prepare allergen-friendly food, so the possibility of cross contamination, although not likely, is still possible.

Most Quick Service and Table Service restaurants will have a separate allergy specific menu for guests to order from. When visiting a buffet, guests are encouraged to speak with a manager about their certain food allergies. Many times, families have been escorted by a manager through the buffet line, and given the opportunity to see the food selection and ask any questions about food prep and handling before they order.

As with everything Disney, the more prepared you are, the better. When making dining reservations, mention the allergy. This will give the restaurant plenty of notice to make sure they have options available for you. When making online reservations, there is a box where you can write in any allergies or restrictions you may have, and when you make reservations by phone you can simply tell the cast member about your situation so they can make note of it.

Families looking for Kosher or Halal Meals will also be able to find something suitable at select Disney restaurants. These requests need to be made 24 hrs in advance and can be made by calling the Walt Disney Dining Reservations Line.

When food allergies are severe, many families like to make and pack their own food to eat while enjoying the parks. You can even bring your own food into the restaurants, just let someone at Security know when you enter the park that you have food in your bag and the reason why, and you won’t have a problem.

Guests who stay in vacation homes near Disney have the luxury of heading “home”, making a safe lunch or snack, and the easily heading back to the parks.

While you’re on vacation, you shouldn’t have to worry about restrictions. With a little preparation, you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious meal with your family, worry free.