Timeshare Information

Disney Fans Insider, a page from the Disney.go.com web site, released this information on March 1, 2011: From March 18 to 21, 2011, Walt Disney World Resort will host the first-ever Magic of Healthy Living: The Weekend - an inaugural experience taking place at Epcot's World Showcase to celebrate the spirit of living well.

The Weekend Event is a natural extension of the Disney "Magic of Healthy Living" initiative, which was launched to help kids and families discover fun and easy ways to focus on fitness, health, and nutrition.

Even First Lady Michelle Obama is on board. Mrs. Obama agreed to appear in a year-long series of public service announcements with Disney Channel's hottest stars after learning that the program's fundamental themes were aligned with the goals of her "Let's Move!" campaign to provide healthy choices for future generations.

After the "Magic of Healthy Living" contest was announced last fall, thousands of eight to 14 year olds across the country entered with hopes of hanging at the Park with their favorite Disney Channel idols during the Weekend Event. Thanks to their eloquently expressed ideas about healthy lifestyles at home, school, and in their communities, 50 winners will do just that.

Kids were asked to "reach for the sky" and write about new ways to add nutritious foods into their diets (particularly fruits, veggies, whole grains, and low-fat dairy), make 60 minutes of daily exercise easy, share information on healthy choices, and schedule rewarding family activities – like planting fruit and veggie gardens. Submissions were judged by a distinguished panel of health and wellness luminaries on how much fun the concepts were, originality, and their ability to motivate others.

Introducing healthy cuisines from around the world is an important part of the two-day itinerary, with cooking demonstrations by Walt Disney World chefs. Food-related activities include "Pass-the-Plate," a mealtime event that teaches kids and parents how to prepare healthy lunches rather than rely on fast food when time is tight.

Participants will enjoy an immersive schedule of games and entertainment inspired by various cultures – from tai chi (Japan) and belly dancing (Morocco) to the culturally diverse "Play Your Way" challenge. "Play Your Way" teams will test their skills at [sepak] takraw, a popular Thai sport that's similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball, as well as games from South America, the Dominican Republic, and other countries.

You can experience healthy eating in an around the world style yourself by renting an Orlando timeshare or Disney timeshare, and heading to the fun international pavilions in Epcot's World Showcase.

(Photo credit - disney.go.com)

Orlando is a many-faceted vacation destination. Known primarily for its big Theme Parks, this Florida city has other great "themes" to its vacation personality as well. Rent a timeshare and have fun with the third "theme" we're exploring in our 3-part series - Dinner Theaters.

1. Arabian Nights
   At this award-winning dinner show you enter the world of Scheherazade, a young girl who dreams of becoming a princess (see photo). Two magical genies take her - and you - on a thrilling romantic adventure filled with music, lights and daring acts. You'll encounter everything from dancers on horseback to racing chariots to flying gypsies.
   
   This is a large-scale production and features riders and acrobats performing on over 60 horses. The entire Arabian Nights performance and dinner show is hosted inside the Palace of Horses, the world’s largest indoor equestrian arena for a permanent show, where more than 14 different breeds of horses are trained.
   
   Along with this exciting show, you'll also eat well. The dinner menu includes everything from sirloin steak to a kid's menu of chicken tenders and macaroni and cheese. And try the Oreo brownie for dessert.


2. Sleuths Mystery Dinner Show
   This is true theater as you watch a mystery play performed right in front of you. And you never know - you might get to mingle with the outrageous characters yourself if you're chosen for a cameo role.
   
   Thirteen different stories are rotated through the schedule. Each show is 2 1/2 hours of scripted mystery, improvisation and audience participation. Bring your investigative skills and watch for anything suspicious, interrogate some of the suspects and help solve the crime. You'll be on the edge of your seat, if you're not rolling in the aisles with laughter.
   
   Your mystery meal offers hot and cold hors d'oeuvres, a choice of entrees that includes prime rib and lasagna, and - a mystery dessert.


3. Pirate Dinner Adventure
   Set aboard an authentic reproduction of an 18th century galleon anchored in an indoor lagoon, this interactive show will "shiver the timbers" of all wanna-be pirates. The action-packed adventure unfolds with a cast of a dozen actors, singers and stunt performers accompanied by cannon blasts, pyrotechnics and plenty of laughs. Every night more than 150 audience members are chosen to play an actual role in the show.
   
   Your pirate's feast includes the Captain's Seafood Medley, Pillager's Pork, and Princess Anita’s Royal Desserts.

An Orlando timeshare rental will put you in the middle of this amazing city - a multi-themed, family-friendly vacation hot-spot.

Explore Orlando’s Many Themes - Part 1: Flying
Explore Orlando’s Many Themes - Part 2: Animals

(Photo credit arabian-nights.com)

Orlando is the Theme Park capital of the world, no doubt about it. But Orlando is a lot more, too. Rent a timeshare in Orlando, and explore Orlando's "other themes." This is Part 1 of a 3-part series on the many fun themes of Orlando. Here we'll explore the theme of "Flying."

Certainly there is flying with Pixie Dust at WDW, and flying with Harry Potter's wizard broom at Universal, but for real family flying fun, Orlando has a lot more from which to choose.

Let's start with skydiving. Think that's not something the entire family would be up for? Think again! At Orlando's Sky Venture you skydive indoors, in a wind tunnel, where just about everyone can fly.

This is just like real skydiving but without having to jump out of a plane. It's so realistic, in fact, that professional skydivers actually practice their moves in the wind tunnel. It's safe enough for 3 year-olds, and thrilling enough for adults.

Sky Venture isn't a ride or a simulator - you actually fly. It's just like free-falling, and instructors teach you how to control your movements by adjusting your positions. Learning how to master turns and other maneuvers gives you a different experience each time you fly.

If you'd like to go up in an airplane, head to Biplane Rides over Kissimmee. You'll experience the freedom of flying in an open cockpit as you wear goggles and feel the wind in your hair. You'll soar above the clouds in a vintage Stearman biplane, and get a bird's eye view of Orlando.

Or take the controls of a WWII fighter at Warbird Adventures, also in Kissimmee (see photo). This is a hands-on experience. You're in the front seat with an experienced flight instructor in the back seat. Once airborne, with his coaching you'll be doing the flying - even some aerobatics if that's what you want. No prior flying experience is necessary.

And who hasn't dreamed of a hot air balloon ride? There are several companies in the Orlando area that can help make that dream come true. Most of the hot air balloon rides take place in the early morning hours when the air is calm and quiet, and afterwards you can look forward to a traditional Champaign toast. You'll enjoy spectacular views as you gently float over Walt Disney World and the other theme parks. You might even have the thrill of finding yourself surrounded by other hot air balloons as you all rise above the earth together.

An Orlando timeshare rental family vacation offers many themes and the fun of flying is just one of them.

Explore Orlando's Many Themes - Part 2: Animals
Explore Orlando's Many Themes - Part 3: Dinner Theaters

Photo courtesy attractionsconnection.com

Rent a Disney timeshare in California or an Orlando timeshare now and plan to be part of a great Debut at either Walt Disney World in Florida, or Disneyland Resorts in Anaheim, CA. On October 14, 2010, Duffy the Disney Bear will make his long-anticipated debut at the U.S. Disney Parks.

Never heard of Duffy? Well, he made his first official appearance at Tokyo Disneyland where he's become quite a phenomenon. See, what happened was that when Mickey Mouse was getting ready to go on a trip, Minnie knew he would need a traveling companion, so she got him the perfect one - his own teddy bear! And believe it or not, Duffy has actually gotten to be more popular in Japan than even Mickey!

But there's no denying who Duffy really belongs to. He has a "hidden Mickey" face shape, Mickey's silhouette is on the bottoms of his feet, and he has a very special birth mark on his hip.

In Anaheim Duffy will be introduced at Disney's California Adventure at Paradise Pier. Duffy's debut at WDW will be at a newly created venue inside Epcot across from the Mexico boat ramp. At Epcot the Kidcot program is involved as well. Kidcot Fun Stops are colorful craft stations for preschoolers located in World Showcase at Epcot. On October 14 your youngsters will be able to go to the Kidcot stops and get a unique Duffy that they can take from country to country to color, decorate, and receive country specific Duffy stamps.

In both parks, special activities and events will mark the October 14 celebration. The day will not only introduce the Duffy teddy bear itself, but also other related souvenir items such as key chains, magnets and zip pouches. The launch will also consist of some special treats like Duffy's crispy treat, chocolatey cake, molded dessert cup, a menu placemat with activities, and coming later, Duffy’s very own molded popcorn bucket.

Although Duffy is actually a small toy teddy bear that Mickey carries with him, he will now be inducted into the full-size, walk-around, character family. During his daily visits, he’ll dress for the occasion but he'll also frequently be seen in many of his own outfits, including a sailor outfit and a baseball uniform.

Disney plans to position the Duffy the Disney Bear as a direct competitor to the popular "Build-a-Bear" franchise. You'll be able to dress Duffy in a full line of costumes, including Christmas and Easter, and for special occasions such as birthdays and graduation.

Duffy is a bear of magic and great luck and the perfect traveling companion for your family. Take him along on all of your timeshare rental vacations!

(Photo credit blueskydisney.blogspot.com)

It will soon be Halloween time, and that means its Disney Villains time! You'll want to rent a Disney timeshare, an Orlando timeshare, or a California timeshare and join in the Halloween fun. Hear your own "screams" - of delight at meeting your favorite Disney Villain!

Who is your favorite Disney Villain? Have you ever really thought about it? Well, now is the time to do some soul-searching, and then Vote! Following are the campaign crusades from some of the most deliciously evil villains Disney ever produced, straight from Disney's Campaign Headquarters. Each one is "dying" to become your favorite:

Jafar – The all-powerful sorcerer from “Aladdin” is full of wicked magic tricks.

Maleficent – Self-proclaimed “Mistress of All Evil” she lures an innocent maiden to prick her finger on a spindle and fall into everlasting slumber, then transforms into a monstrous, fire-breathing dragon!

Ursula – This dreadful sea witch will sink to any depths to carry out her evil deeds! She torments undersea creatures, steals King Triton’s crown, and captures Princess Ariel’s beautiful voice. Could you “cast” your vote for someone this slippery?

Evil Queen – Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the most jealous of them all? When the Magic Mirror reveals that Snow White is alive and still the “fairest in the land,” the Queen transforms herself into a hag and convinces the innocent princess to take a bite of a poisoned apple.

Captain Hook – This elegant but vengeful villain anchored his ship and crew in the waters of Never Land, to seek revenge upon Peter Pan. Hook locks up Tinker Bell, sends a ticking package to Peter Pan, kidnaps the Lost Boys and forces Wendy to walk the plank, all the while repeatedly attacking Peter Pan and his crew with swords and schemes to exact lasting revenge.

Cruella De Vil – This devilish lady stops at nothing when it comes to satisfying her need for greed. She plots! She steals! She dognaps 101 Dalmatian puppies just to make the perfect fur coat. The only thing perfect about Cruella De Vil is her name. Like the song says, “If she doesn’t scare you, no evil thing will.”

These villains will be battling each other for the title of the baddest villain of them all, now through October 28. Cast your vote at disneyland.com/halloween. Then rent a timeshare for a great Disney Halloween Adventure to meet your favorite Disney Villain!

(Photo credit disneyland.disney.go.com)

Looking for a fun vacation idea for the fall? Rent a Disney timeshare, or take an Orlando timeshare rental, and head to Walt Disney World's Epcot. The annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival will take place this autumn from October 1 -November 14, 2010.

This special event transforms Epcot into a foodie paradise where you'll be bombarded with culinary events, sophisticated parties, and live musical entertainment. Epcot, with its international theme, is the perfect place to try delicious regional foods and wines from around the world.

The Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, presented by Vanity Fair magazine, offers once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to learn from world-renowned chefs and winemakers, and indulge in some of the world's tastiest foods - all without having to step foot outside the U.S.A. New additions this year include the tantalizing tastes of Belgium and the robust flavors of South Korea.

It's easy to start eating as soon as you get there - at the Marketplaces and Promenade area more than 25 international marketplace kiosks, representing countries from 6continents, will be serving up tapas-sized portions of regional specialties. Try Steamed Mussels with Roasted Garlic Cream from Belgium, Australia's Seared Barramundi with Blistered Cherry Tomatoes, and Shrimp Stew with Coconut and Lime from Brazil - and that's just the beginning!

You can also start your wine tasting here - how about South Africa's Goats do Roam White, or China's Dragon's Hollow Chardonnay?

Wondering how your waistline is going to handle all of this? Sign up for the first annual "Run Around The Parks, Dine Around The World" Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon. You'll be inaugurating a brand new half marathon course that will take you through the WDW Theme Parks. Enjoy a private after party at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival exclusively for runners and their friends.

The Eat to the Beat concert series is another way to jive and wiggle and keep in shape. You won't be able to sit still as you listen to a varied lineup of classic rock, soul, R&B, jazz and funk hit–makers, such as Kool & the Gang, Air Supply, and Sister Hazel.

An exciting schedule of seminars and demonstrations will teach you the secret techniques of culinary masters. Everything is offered from introductions to wine connoisseurship to demonstrations packed with cooking tips, and sessions where you can sample regional beers and even artisanal cheeses.

It's a good thing you'll be staying in a timeshare rental - you'll want to start trying out your new-found culinary expertise right away - and you'll have a fully equipped kitchen in which to do it!

(Photo credit examiner.com)

Did you know that Orlando, the "Theme Park Capital of the World," is not just all theme parks? Not only are there numerous other fun, interesting and educational activities in Orlando, but many of these are free. Got your attention?! Rent an Orlando timeshare, and check this central Florida city out for its budget-friendly free offerings.

Originally a major citrus growing region, the Orlando metro area's population is now over 2 million. Today its major industry is tourism, but it is also the home to a major industrial and hi-tech center, as well as the University of Central Florida, the largest university in the state of Florida and among the largest in the United States.

With all of this diversity it's no wonder that the Orlando area offers many different types of activities and events to its visitors. The free ones include:

1. Fort Christmas Historical Park
   Just 20 miles east of Orlando on the Space Coast in Christmas, FL, this is a replica of the original fort built here in 1837 during the Seminole Indian War (see photo). The 25-acre park also features seven pioneer homes, a sugar cane mill and historical farming equipment. There are beautiful picnic areas (pack a great lunch in your timeshare kitchen), volleyball and basketball courts, and a unique themed children's playground.


2. Morse Museum of American Art
   Located in Winter Park, just 10 minutes from downtown Orlando, the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art houses the largest and most comprehensive collection of the works of Louis Comfort Tiffany in existence. The exhibit includes everything from Tiffany's famed leaded-glass windows to glass buttons. While Tiffany's work is the centerpiece, the museum also exhibits a major collection of American art pottery, and fine collections of late-19th and early-20th century American paintings, graphics and the decorative arts.


3. Orlando Brewery
   You adults will enjoy the free behind-the-scenes tour of this very popular brewery. It is Florida's only certified organic brewery, and brews "in accordance with the German Purity Law of 1516, which means we use only natural, organic ingredients." The brewery is located near downtown Orlando, where you'll enjoy a calendar of events and live entertainment along with your tour.


4. Central Florida Railroad Museum
   Another Winter Park attraction, this fun museum is housed in a former Tavares and Gulf depot that was built in 1913. Besides an exhibit of dining car china, you'll be able to get up close and personal to a number of "big boys," including a New York Central locomotive, a 1919 steam engine, and the huge "No.1835" locomotive donated by the U.S. Army.

So now you know that Orlando offers plenty of free activities to suit every member of your family on your timeshare vacation. Have fun!

(Photo provided by nbbd.com)

Have one last wild fling at summer and plan a timeshare rental vacation where you can get the adrenalin rush of an extreme roller coaster ride. This is the last of our 3-Part series on exploring the best roller coasters in America as suggested by Arthur Levine, a travel writer and self-proclaimed "theme park-aholic." In Part 3 we are going to explode into the best of the Extreme roller coasters - these are what Levine calls the "merciless" ones.

1. Rent an Orlando timeshare and head to Islands of Adventure at Universal Orlando for a wild ride on The Incredible Hulk (see photo). "Not for the faint of heart," says Levine, "you haven't truly lived until you've experienced The Incredible Hulk's wild and unique uphill launch. It accelerates to 40 mph in approximately 2 seconds and then speeds through several inversions. When it opened in 1999 it featured the world's tallest cobra roll at 110 feet.


2. A Boston timeshare rental will put you less than an hour's drive from Six Flags New England in Springfield, MA. This is where you'll find Bizarro, a hypercoaster of the best kind - it keeps you screaming up until the last second when the magnetic brakes slam on. "The high-speed first drop is pure coaster nirvana," says Levine. With a 70-degree angle of decent the train accelerates to nearly 80 mph. This amazing coaster has a height of 208 feet, but drops you 221 feet - straight into an underground, fog-enshrouded tunnel!


3. Just an hour's drive from either a timeshare rental in New York City or an Atlantic City timeshare rental, the extreme coaster, Kingda Ka, is thrilling crowds at Six Flags Adventure in Jackson, New Jersey. This "strata coaster" is currently the tallest and fastest roller coaster in the world. The train is launched by a hydraulic launch mechanism to 128 miles per hour in 3.5 seconds. At the end of the launch track, the train climbs the main tower, reaching a height of 456 feet.


4. Intimidator 305, Kings Dominion, in Doswell, Virginia, is just over an hour from your Williamsburg, Virginia timeshare rental. Only one of currently three giga coasters in the world it opened in April, 2010. It's the tallest of its type on the East Coast (launch coasters can be taller, but this is the tallest of the traditional gravity driven coaster using a cable to pull it to the top). The first drop is 300 feet at an astounding 85-degree angle, and is the fastest coaster of its type in North America, getting up to 90mph.

"Why do we love roller coasters? Who knows? But, it seems, we can't get enough of them," sums up Arthur Levine.

Top Roller Coaster Rides – Part 1 (Mild Rides)
Top Roller Coaster Rides – Part 2 (Intermediate Rides)

(Photo courtesy of orlandorollercoaster.com)

Summer is winding down, so it's time for that one big last Hurrah. Plan a timeshare rental vacation for the entire family and go out with a sizzling roller coaster ride at a great theme park! This is Part 1 of a 3-Part series exploring top roller coaster rides in the U.S. as listed by Arthur Levine, an avowed "theme park-aholic" and travel writer.

In Part 1 we'll explore roller coasters that Levine recommends as good for "wimps" and others of us who have been afraid of them. These roller coasters will help you ease into the "thrill" of Thrill Rides.

1. Rent an Anaheim timeshare and head to Disneyland for its Big Thunder Mountain (see photo) roller coaster ride. You can also ride it at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom with an Orlando timeshare rental. This is a robust roller coaster that gets up to 30mph, but has no super steep drops. The "runaway mine train" theme is chocked full of cute Disney touches, and if you keep your mind on watching for those the ride will be over before you know it, and you'll be standing in line to ride again.


2. Space Mountain, also at both Disneyland and the Magic Kingdom, is another "easy but thrill-filled" roller coaster recommended at this level by Levine. He describes it as "really just a tame steel coaster that pokes along at 29mph." Indoors and in the dark, the space theme has you hurtling through inky blackness dotted by stars, and with mostly twists and turns it’s a fun ride without the steep drops.


3. The Flight of the Hippogriff at Islands of Adventure, Universal Orlando, Florida, is part of the new Wizarding World of Harry Potter theme park. Following along with the Harry Potter theme, Hagrid welcomes you to his Magical Creatures class as you climb aboard this "typical family coaster." The biggest drop is just 30 feet, and its top speed is 28mph. You can have a lot of fun with your younger kids on this ride, and use it as good practice on your way to wilder roller coaster adventures.


4. If you really feel like you need to start out on a small ride, Levine recommends the Woody Woodpecker's Nuthouse Coaster at Universal Studios Florida. "If Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain seem too daunting, you could start with this very tame ride that is barely a notch above a kiddie coaster," offers Levine.

Levine suggests that you progress in your "roller coaster training" step-by-step. After the family coasters, ride intermediate ones before attempting any of the hypercoasters with whacky features. "The best roller coasters turn knuckles white and induce screams," says Levine. "The trick is to acclimate slowly!"


Top Roller Coaster Rides – Part 2 (Intermediate Rides)
Top Roller Coaster Rides – Part 3 (Extreme Rides)

Did you know that you can have your cake and eat it, too? Or at least a scone, crème brulee, mandarin duck - and the best part is that it doesn't have to break the bank. We're all still looking for economic ways of traveling and for many families the "world is your oyster" idea is still a bit on the expensive side. The answer - rent a budget-friendly Orlando timeshare or a Disney Timeshare and tour the world through food at Disney's Epcot.

And here's where the cake and mandarin duck come in - at Epcot you can experience the cuisines of many different countries without stepping one foot off America's shores. The countries that are showcased in Epcot provide opportunities to sample food that is not only culturally traditional, but is cooked, and served, by citizens of that country, under the Cultural Representative Program.

Would your family like to visit Paris? The "Chefs de France" restaurant is nestled under the French Pavilion's Eiffel Tower. Here the food is inspired by classical French Brasseries Bocuse. You can try such things as the crème brulee, profiteroles (see photo), and samples from an award-winning French wine list.

How about a trip to Japan? The Yakitori House is built in the style of a traditional Japanese Tea House and is located next to the Pagoda. Or try the Teppan Edo, a "teppanyaki" type restaurant where chefs prepare stir-fried foods right in front you.

When you head to Morocco you're in for a real treat. At the Restaurant Marrakesh not only will you enjoy Harira soup, Pastilla appetizers, and even lamb shish kabob, but you'll do it in a sultan's palace setting complete with Moroccan percussion music and entertainment by belly-dancers.

In Germany it's Oktoberfest every day of the year at the Biergarten Restaurant. While being entertained by ompa-pa bands and traditional folk dances you can sample classic schnitzel and strudel, and enjoy German beer served in one liter steins.

You'll sit down for Norway's "kingly" feast in a replica of a Norwegian medieval castle, complete with high cathedral ceilings and huge iron chandeliers. The Restaurant Akershus is a good choice for those in your family who are more adventurous. For example kjottkaker is a meatball with beets added, and Stravanger is a traditional drink of vodka, raspberry and lime. Try the Rice Cream or the Velied Meiden for dessert.

And don't forget the mandarin duck in China!

A timeshare rental and a fun trip around the world at Epcot can give your family a real global travel experience that is nice and easy on the budget.

"Get ready for Fun!" exuded one excited fan after a day at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Universal's newest theme park in Orlando, Florida. Reviews of the Harry Potter experience are starting to come in. Isn't it time you planned to rent an Orlando timeshare and take your family of budding wizards to "the most exciting theme park to open in ages"?

Fans will find themselves authentically immersed in the very "Wizarding World" that they inhabited with Harry Potter and his wizard friends (and foes) every time they turned a page of the books or thrilled to a movie scene. Right here in Orlando you'll feel hot dragon's breath, eat exploding candy, drink butter beer and pumpkin juice, ride a Hippogriff, see talking portraits and moving staircases.

One review put it this way: "One of my favorite things about the new Harry Potter park is that the show never seems to end. Everywhere you look, there's some moving animatronics character, live character shows and performances, a ride, scenes from the books, and so on. You're continually entertained and made to feel like you've truly entered the world of Harry Potter."

A number of reviews give the Butter Beer (obtained, of course, at the Three Broomsticks) big thumbs up (photo at right).
Apparently J.K. Rowling herself supervised the creation of this concoction.

The Dragon Challenge roller coaster ride is reputed to be Harry Potter star Daniel Radcliffe's "favorite roller coaster of all time," and mere muggles agree. "These roller coasters are longer than the average thrill ride. There are more loops, spins, upside down over the top and every which way that you can possibly turn upside down than any other ride that I've ever been on, and they go really, really fast," says one reviewer.

The Flight of the Hippogriff, may be a bit tamer ride, and is considered more of a "family" coaster, but is still "a thrilling ride!" according to many reviews. Harry Potter fans will enjoy the fact that the line winds past Hagrid's hut, and Hagrid himself is there to welcome you to his Magical Creatures class.

The main attraction is the Forbidden Journey ride that takes you through Hogwart's Castle. "The blending of simulation and reality in this ride is the best I've ever seen," stated one reviewer. But be forewarned - several reviewers have mentioned that this ride is not for the youngest ones in your group, as some scenes are very realistic and can be quite frightening.

"Overall, a fantastic experience! I can't wait to go back!" summed up one reviewer. And a young fan from Colorado put it this way: “If you are a Harry Potter fan this is a dream come true." So plan a timeshare rental vacation and head to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!

Top photo courtesy Orlando Sentinel
Right photo courtesy blog.officialticketcenter.com

What will they think of next? Disney, that is. With the Disney Imagineers always on the job, who knows! If your kids are getting tired of the same ho-hum roller coaster experience, rent an Orlando timeshare and take them to Walt Disney World's Epcot. At the Innoventions pavilion they can create their Own roller coaster ride!

Disney's interactive ride, Sum of all Thrills, is actually a "design station" where you use a touchscreen to design a roller coaster, a bobsled, or a jet plane. Then make that ride do spins and rolls, loops and corkscrews - you can go to town and make it as wild a ride as you can imagine. And the best part? The information is downloaded on to a card and you then enter a simulator to enjoy the ride you just created! Inside the simulator you'll experience your ride on immersive high definition video combined with stereo sound and controlled air motion for a complete sensory experience.

Sounds pretty cool, doesn’t it? Pssst - parents - don't tell the kids, but this ride was really designed to show kids that math can actually be fun. When kids are dreaming up the corkscrews and drops for their custom-designed thrill rides, they use onscreen tools such as rulers, speed dials, and mathematical formulas for velocity and acceleration. Developed by Disney and military contractor Raytheon, the hope is that kids will learn how math and engineering sciences interact with their lives in useful - and fun - ways.

Let the kids do some more exploring through Innoventions, while you're there. At this 2-story pavilion and interactive play space for kids of all ages, "you can imagine, invent, inquire and be inspired" while exploring amazing innovations that make our lives better.

Besides Sum of All Thrills, other exhibits located at Innoventions East include Storm Struck where you can experience what it's like to be in a perfect storm; Don't Waste It! full of fun games that challenge you to create alternate forms of energy from virtual trash; and Test the Limits Lab - here you can have the thrill of smashing, bashing, crashing and shattering every day items.

Exhibits located at Innoventions West include The Great Piggy Bank Adventure, a fun way for everyone in the family to learn the importance of sound financial planning; "Slapstick Studios" is where you get to participate in a wacky game show and discover creative ways to solve household problems; and Where's the Fire?, a fun way to explore fire safety by becoming the Fire Chief and making it through the Play It Safe Maze.

For a great timeshare rental family vacation, a visit to Disney's Epcot Innoventions is a way to keep your kids engaged in learning while having the time of their lives!

Photo courtesy aroundthemouse.blogspot.com

Disney's Main Street Electrical Parade is Back! For a limited time this famous parade will wind itself down Main Street at Walt Disney Resort's Magic Kingdom in Orlando, Florida, in celebration of the "Summer Nightastic!" entertainment package. Run, don't walk, to your nearest Orlando timeshare rental this summer to take advantage of this great opportunity to once again see this exciting parade.

The Main Street Electrical Parade was a mainstay at Disneyland in Anaheim from 1972 until 1996. It featured floats and live performers covered in thousands of electronically-controlled lights. A synchronized soundtrack was triggered by radio control along key areas of the parade route. During the summer of 2010 the original parade can be seen at the Magic Kingdom, and an updated version, that includes LED pixie dust, will perform at Tokyo Disneyland.

Wikipedia does a good job explaining just how this amazing parade works. The engineers who helped create the parade in 1972 also created the first show-control program in existence. This allowed the 2,000-foot long parade route to contain multiple radio-activated "trigger zones." Using radio-activated triggers as each float entered a zone, the audience would hear float-specific music through the Disneyland audio system. Each zone was between 70 and 100 feet long, and the zoned system meant that every person watching the parade would experience the same show, no matter where they stood along the parade route.

Until 1977, some of the floats like the elephant train and the American flag finale were 2D and had to be pulled or pushed along the parade route. The Blue Fairy float was a 3D float, and ran until closing. The Big Bass Drum pulled by the Casey Jr. Engine, the Cinderella float and a Chinese dragon (later replaced by Pete's Dragon) and the circus calliope were all 3D. Most of these original floats can be seen in the 2010 parade at the Magic Kingdom.

As important to this parade as the lighted floats is the music. The unmistakable jaunty theme is based on a song entitled "Baroque Hoedown." The original version was created in 1967 by early synthesizer pioneers Jean-Jacques Perrey and Gershon Kingsley.

Many of you parents and grandparents remember the Electrical Parade as a wonderful part of your childhood, and now you have a chance to make sure the next generations get to experience the same incomparable Disney magic. When the kids see the parade for the first time, once will Not be enough! A timeshare rental, and multiple-day passes to the Magic Kingdom, will allow everyone in the family to see this special Disney attraction again and again!

(Photo provided by Disney Parks Blog)

With "The Wizzarding World of Harry Potter" opening June, 2010, at Universal Orlando Resort, in Orlando, Florida, now is a good time to take a closer look at this theme park of Universal Studios. Now is also a good time to rent an Orlando timeshare so your family will have a vacation that is not only memorable, but easily affordable.

Universal Orlando Resort actually consists of three different theme parks: Universal Studios Florida, Universal's Islands of Adventure, and Universal CityWalk.

Universal Studios Florida is where visitors can "Ride the Movies." Many of the park's movie-themed attractions are developed with the actual creators of the films on which they are based. For example Steven Spielberg helped create "E.T. Adventure," and "Twister - Ride it Out." Often the films' stars reprise their film roles as Christopher Lloyd did for "Back to the Future, the Ride." Rip Torn and Will Smith can be seen in "Men in Black: Alien Attack," and the entire cast of Shrek participated in creating "Shrek - 4D."

The overall theme of Universal's Islands of Adventure (see photo) is that of a "Journey of Exploration," where guests visit different islands, each having its own distinct adventure theme. Marvel Super Hero Island has rides inspired by Marvel comic books and focuses primarily on thrill rides such as the Incredible Hulk Coaster, and The Amazing Adventures of Spider Man. The Jurassic Park Island has both thrill rides and discovery-based exhibits. This island's theme takes place under the guise of a "real" Jurassic Park

A brand new island is where you'll find "The Wizzarding World of Harry Potter." Both the production designer and the art designer of the film series have guided the creation of this Harry Potter themed adventure. J.K. Rowling, the author of the books, has also been involved, down to determining the taste of the Butter Beer served at The Three Broomsticks in Hogsmead.

Universal CityWalk is an exciting night time entertainment venue and includes a 20 screen AMC Universal Cineplex, and numerous shops, restaurants and clubs. It is home to Margaritaville, NBA City Cafe, NASCAR Cafe, and Hard Rock Café. The clubs include Latin Quarter, Bob Marley's, and the Red Coconut.

Universal Orlando Resort is a fun place that certainly has something for everybody, and a budget timeshare rental will give your family plenty of time to explore it all.

Okay, raise your hand… Who is tired of staying in basic motels? Who is tired of cramped hotel rooms and one crowded swimming pool? Who would love to spend a vacation at a luxury resort but is thinking, "Sure, I can't afford that!" In the style of this summer's blockbuster superhero "Iron Man" – it’s Timeshare to the Rescue!

As Iron Man and other superheroes of the big screen show over and over – let’s think about how great it is to rescue people from the routine of their lives and problems, and even help make dreams come true. And a timeshare rental can do just that.

Yes, you can afford to vacation at a luxury resort. Believe it! All timeshares are associated with resorts, and talk about luxury! How luxurious would it be to stay in a "room" that is swimming with space. A timeshare is like an apartment, not a motel room. You'll have separate bedrooms, a dining area, a living room, more than one bathroom, a patio or balcony, and a fully equipped kitchen. And best of all - maid service will clean it, keep it supplied with fresh towels and linens, and even carry out the garbage.

Even the most basic amenities offered by a resort beat what you'd get at a plain hotel. All resorts have swimming pools, hot-tubs and generally activities such as tennis and arcade game rooms. Depending on the location, you'll also have direct access to beaches, mountain biking trails, or theme parks right out your front door.

The more up-scale resorts, where, yes, you can still get a budget timeshare rental, will have so many activities that you may not even want to venture outside of the resort. Take the Sheraton Vistana luxury resort in Orlando, for instance. Timeshare rentals here start at just $79/night, and included in that affordable price is a 135-acre fun fest. Or stay at Smuggler's Notch Resort in Vermont where timeshare rentals start at $71/night, and every child from 6 months to teens have something special planned just for them.

Budget timeshare rentals in luxury resorts make it affordable to vacation in a Hawaii timeshare, stay in the Caribbean, enjoy wonderful theme parks in an Orlando timeshare, bask on Florida's sugary sand beaches, and bike through the spectacular mountains in a Colorado timeshare. It's as if Iron Man or Superman or Spider Man swept you up and deposited you right in the middle of your dream vacation. What more could you want from a superhero?

(Photo from Wikipedia)

Want to “Play Side by Side with the Sea”? Then you’ll want to visit Aquatica! Designed as a "natural" water park, the 59-acre Aquatica opened in 2008 and was visited by nearly 950,000 guests, making it the fourth most visited water park in the U.S. in its first year.

Aquatica was created as a second sister park, after Discovery Cove, for SeaWorld Orlando. Discovery Cove was built so guests could do more than just watch shows and view exhibits, but could actually interact with a variety of marine animals, most notably the bottlenose dolphin. Guests also interact in a variety of ways with exotic birds, tropical fishes, and graceful rays. Because it was such a hit, the new water park, Aquatica was created where you can interact with aquatic animals and get wet with water park fun!

There are many budget friendly Orlando timeshare rentals in the area where you can plan a family vacation, and visit Aquatica for a truly unique "water park" experience. With its southern Pacific theme, Aquatica features South Seas architecture and Australian and New Zealand mascots. Distinct from SeaWorld's "Shamu," these mascots are Aquatica's own "park ambassadors," and include Roa, a kiwi; Kata, a kookaburra; Ihu, a gecko; and Wae Wae, a takahe bird.

Providing something for all ages and swimming abilities, Aquatica has over 36 water slides and a wide array of water attractions, some of which actually pass through animal habitats. For example, Aquatica's signature attraction, the Dolphin Plunge, is an enclosed double-tube slide that passes through a pool containing a pod of Commerson's dolphins.

Aquatica offers two versions of the Lazy River. For the younger set and those who enjoy peace and quiet, Loggerhead Lane is a traditional lazy river where you'll float through a grotto of cichlids, the family of tropical fish that includes the beautiful damselfish. For something more exciting, Roa's Rapids is a more aggressive version that is fast, and includes geysers and speed zones.

Two wave pools, one with gentle, rolling waves, and the other featuring stronger, taller waves, share an 80,000 sq. foot white sand beach, complete with lounge chairs and umbrellas. There is even something especially for the little tykes. Kata's Kookaburra Cove is designed for younger children, with smaller slides and play features, and Walkabout Waters offers a fun play fortress with slides, ladders and dumping water buckets.

Orlando offers so many wonderful theme parks and activities. When you rent an Orlando timeshare, be sure to make time for Aquatica and experience how much fun a water park can be.

(Photo provided by aquaticabyseaworld.com)

What kid doesn't like animals? A summer family vacation that is definitely kid-friendly is anything that involves seeing exotic animals. This could include zoos with lions and tigers and bears (oh, my!), or getting up close and personal with exotic marine animals. And what better place for kids to do that than visiting SeaWorld. There are three SeaWorld parks in the U.S., one on each coast, and one in the middle. Take your pick: rent an Orlando timeshare in Florida, a San Diego timeshare in California, or a San Antonio timeshare in Texas, and visit SeaWorld!

SeaWorld is a marine mammal park, an oceanarium, and an animal theme park all rolled into one. The parks feature killer whale (orca), sea lion, and dolphin shows, along with zoological displays featuring various other marine animals including graceful rays, slippery eels, sharks and even penguins.

SeaWorld was the brain child of four UCLA graduates who originally set out to build an underwater restaurant in San Diego. When the underwater restaurant idea proved unfeasible, they decided to build a marine park instead, and the San Diego Sea World opened to the public in 1964.

Today all three SeaWorld parks also feature a variety of thrill rides. Sea World Orlando has the Kraken and Manta roller coasters; Sea World San Antonio offers two rides called the Steel Eel and the Great White; and a "splashdown ride," Journey to Atlantis, can be found in all three parks. Because the giant beer brewing company, Anheuser-Busch, owned the Sea World parks for a number of years, each park also keeps some of the famous Budweiser Clydesdales as an additional non-marine type attraction.

SeaWorld has made many contributions to wildlife conservation, including scientists and zoologists who participate in research and marine wildlife preservation. SeaWorld rescue teams routinely save stranded whales, dolphins, seals, and sea lions, and have helped raise the awareness of Florida's endangered manatees. SeaWorld's commitment to conservation, research and animal rescue was recently formalized with the creation of the non-profit SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund. SeaWorld is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, which means that the parks have met and exceeded the Standards in Education, Conservation and Research.

A family timeshare rental vacation near one of the SeaWorld parks will not only give the kids the unique opportunity to see and learn about marine wildlife, and even have fun on some amazing thrill rides, but your family will also be participating, in a way, in marine conservation efforts the world over.

(Photo provided by seaworld.com)

The news flash is that Spaceship Two made its maiden flight on March 22, 2010, and vacationing in space is becoming more and more a reality. This first of several planned test flights took the Virgin Galactic spacecraft just a few miles up into the sky. But when space actually becomes a vacation destination, Spaceship Two will be taken up to 50,000 feet by its jet-propelled mother ship, WhiteKnightTwo, and then let go. Spaceship Two's own rockets will then fire, and off into space you'll go.

The space tourism industry is now open for business. The first real space tourist was Dennis Anthony Tito, a United States engineer and multimillionaire. In April, 2001, he spent 8 days aboard Russia's Soyuz spacecraft, orbiting the International Space Station. Since then several more people have taken tourism to the new heights.

Perhaps as soon as 2011 you'll be able to look out and see the curve of our blue planet as it sails through the black of space. The first space flights for tourists will be a 2-hour experience for which they'll be charged $200,000. Already there are 330 people signed up and Virgin Galactic has over $45 million on deposit. Eventually week-long trips will be offered, costing around $2 million. There are already several space tourism companies planning to build suborbital vehicles and orbital cities within the next two decades. Space hotels might be popular vacation spots in just 20 years

The good news is that you don't have to forego vacations on the planet now as you save your pennies for an out of this world vacation. While you're waiting to blast off into space, plan your earthly vacations with timeshare rentals. These remarkably budget-friendly, inexpensive modes of vacationing offer a lot of bang for your buck. You get bedrooms and living rooms and kitchens and decks and patios and tennis and hot tubs and swimming pools and - all sorts of wonderfully fun and exciting things right here on the ground.

If you just can't wait to become a space tourist, rent an Orlando timeshare or Daytona Beach timeshare and head for Cape Canaveral. Here you can practice by experiencing a simulated moon landing or a rocket ship blast off, and even try out that wonderfully delicious - space food. Cape Canaveral timeshare rentals are also available.

(Photo by slipperybrick.com)

Fifth in our series "Places Every Kid Should See" will take us into outer space - or at least to the launch pad. The Kennedy Space Center in Florida will bring the exciting story of the United States' space program to life for your kids. The Center is located on Cape Canaveral, a headland along the Atlantic Ocean known as Florida's "Space Coast." Rent either an Orlando timeshare (a 45-minute drive), or a beautiful Daytona Beach timeshare (a short hour's drive) for a great family vacation.

Today's children have grown up with space travel becoming more and more common place. Hardly a ripple goes through the public when a space shuttle is launched, a rocket blasts into space, or the International Space Station is mentioned.

The beginnings of human space travel is really the stuff of science fiction, and kids will get a thrill to see what it was like to take those first heady steps into space - the courage, the determination, the tragedies and the scientific breakthroughs that made it all happen.

The Kennedy Space Center is the U.S. government's installation that operates America's astronaut launch facilities. It has been the launch site for every U.S. human space flight since 1968. Its Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB) is the 4th largest structure in the world by volume.

The Center is a major tourist destination, with a visitor's center and public tours available. Here your kids have the unique opportunity to not only explore past history but also see history in the making. Because this facility is constantly preparing for space launches, much of it is restricted. But that will only make it more exciting for your kids, knowing that they are at the actual site of America's space program.

The Kennedy Space Center Visitors Complex offers a number of displays including actual space craft such as the Gemini 9 capsule and the Apollo 14 command module, and thrilling interactive exhibits including the Shuttle Launch Experience, and a simulation ride into space. Two IMAX theaters will give your kids the exciting experience of being inside the firing room during an Apollo launch, and a simulation of the Apollo 11 moon landing. A tour of the Space Station Processing Facility will allow your kids to see where modules for the International Space Station are tested.

Bus tours will take your family around the Cape Canaveral facility to see the VAB up close, a restored gigantic Saturn V rocket, and even transportation to the observation platform at Launch Complex 39, which provides unobstructed views of both launch pads, and the surrounding Kennedy Space Center property. If they're lucky your kids might even get a glimpse of one of the space shuttles standing on a launch pad in preparation for a blastoff. See all Florida timeshares.

There's a resort in Florida that turns to ICE this time of year. Yes, in Florida, where in December people flock for warm sun and orange trees, the Gaylord Palms Resort goes for the frigid and chilly instead. By renting Kissimmee timeshare or nearby Orlando timeshare you'll easily be able to afford to take the entire family to the Gaylord's nationally renowned ICE celebration.

Known as the "Florida Fridge," this incredible exhibition is carved out of one million tons of ice and housed in a structure that is kept at a freezing 9 degrees. Inside (don't worry, the resort provides warm parkas) you'll experience a winter wonderland of interactive exhibits and huge monuments and sculptures made of ice. All hand-carved by a team of renowned artisans from Harbin, China, the icy attraction is spectacularly lit with dazzling colorful lights.

One of the exhibits sure to excite the kids is a life-size ice carousel in the middle of a fun Christmas Carnival. And this year you'll be journeying to the North Pole where you'll watch Santa and his reindeer as they take off on their annual Christmas Eve trip. You can even ride with Santa down an ice speed slide!

One of the most popular displays is a life-size nativity scene carved out of clear ice. As the Gaylord describes it: "It is undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking depictions of the birth of Christ and along with its stirring narrative track gives guests a moment to pause for reflection on the story behind the season."

The ticket prices for the ICE show at the Gaylord Palms Resort are between $19.99 and $25.99 for adults, depending on the day of the week and the package. All children's tickets (ages 4-12) are just $9.99. This is a magical "you gotta see it to believe it" memory-making Christmas experience for the entire family! Through January 3, 2010.

(Photo from gaylordhotels.com)