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Celebrate the Holidays at Busch Gardens Tampa

11/28/2020

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Last weekend I was invited to visit Christmas Town at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay for the third year in a row.  This year was very different than the last few years due to COVID-19.  I have to say, I think I enjoyed it even more!  Just like in previous years, there was the Christmas Village which was full of food and beverage vendors with tons of holiday treats. Plus there was still meet and greets, Santa, the ice skating show, and more just in a more social distanced and masked-up way! 

Honestly, I love that the park requires reservations and is at limited capacity because it means a much more enjoyable experience (IMO).  We felt like we had SO much room and we rarely waited in line for food or drinks.  We felt very safe, especially since we mainly stay in our homes during this time, so this was a huge thing for us.  We did not have a chance to catch the ice skating show, but I loved that they held it outdoors this year, because in the past going inside made me a little claustrophobic plus a little warm.  The weather was beautiful, so it was perfect to have it outdoors so that people could enjoy the weather and have their holiday food and beverage. The show took place 3x that evening as well.

There are things to do ALL day as part of the "Christmas Town" experience, but the food/drink vendors don't open until 4pm.  Just like many of the other festivals, you will find this area by taking a LEFT once you start getting into the park.
I LOVED that the first thing you saw this year was Frosty! Last year he was a bit hidden, but this year he was your first friendly holiday face to greet you!
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After Frosty, once you get to the Christmas Village, this is where the yummy food and beverage vendors begin!
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Let's talk holiday food and beverages - let's be real, this IMO is the best part of holiday fun at the parks other than - FIREWORKS, but we'll get to that.
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There are SO many different foods and treats, but for sure an emphasis on TREATS.  If you have a sweet tooth, you are going to LOVE this! I mean, look at those cookies and donuts!  Is your mouth watering yet?  Just wait...
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Apple Cobbler Cake Cone from North Pole Bakery
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Chicken & Waffles, Bison Beef Sliders, and Beer Cheese Soup from Winter Waffles & Bites
Those were just a few, there's plenty more to be had, but let's talk about some of the drinks!
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Frozen Hot Cocoa with Baileys added in from Jack Frosty Cocktails (not sampler lanyard size)
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Frozen Kahlua Eggnog from Jack Frosty Cocktails (sampler lanyard size)
Above: Cinnamon cranberry mimosa - all the holiday feels in a delish mimosa! Perfect for a holiday cheers!
​Below: Peppermint Hot Cocoa with Baileys added in a refillable mug - yum!  Nothing says "it's the holidays!" like some hot cocoa!
How did we eat and drink so much?  Well, the best deal is to purchase the Christmas Town Sampler Lanyard.  The 5-item lanyard is $34.99 and the 10-item is $49.99 (this makes everything $5!)  Now, the drinks WILL be a smaller size, but that just means you get to try more! Honestly, I love the sampler lanyard because I never have to worry about how much I am spending nor do I have to worry about taking out my wallet - easy peasy! PLUS, if you love the hot cocoa, there is a souvenir refillable mug - super cute and highly recommend! To learn more about the other food and drink offered during Christmas Town, GO HERE.
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During COVID, I do not go on rides or really go inside places, it still makes me pretty uncomfortable, so I love that Busch Gardens has tons of things to do outside while being socially distanced.  There were a few meet and greets with some Princesses and also Santa (we did not meet Santa).  
We did decide to ride the Christmas Train as they were offering social distancing (skipping a row between parties) and it was only one way.  This was a nice little break as you get to see different parts of the park while also hearing holiday music.  I loved that they kept parties separated, so we felt very safe.
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As previously stated, I did not visit with Santa, but I did see this GIANT Coke Santa that the had on display, which was pretty amazing:
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Now, for the part that really made the evening SUPER special - FIREWORKS!  This does not happen every night during Christmas Town, so be sure to check out their schedule online before booking your reservation if this is something you want to see - which I recommend! 

I live in Central Florida and I have been seriously missing fireworks, so this was something really special right now.  I was so happy to see fireworks again!  Most people watch them from the field where they had the ice skating show, but we watched from the Christmas Town Village - this was awesome because we were able to sit down and were almost all by ourselves.  We could see and hear the music just fine. 
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Christmas Town was a wonderful this year, even with social distancing, masks, etc.  If you are looking for a fun holiday experience, I recommend going. Christmas Town is included with daily admission, so you can start your day with rides and animals, and end your day with Holiday Cheer!
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I am a Busch Gardens blogger ambassador. In exchange for sharing upcoming information sometimes I receive complimentary admission to events. As always, all opinions are my own.
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Christmas Town is BACK with NEW Open-Air Festivities and Modified Family-Favorite Traditions in Order to Bring Safe Holiday Cheer to Busch Gardens Earlier than EVER!

11/19/2020

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Millions of twinkling lights, NEW holiday fireworks, the first-ever outdoor production of ‘Christmas on Ice’ and much more merriment, complete with enhanced health and safety measures, are making spirits bright this year
Wrap up the year with holiday cheer earlier than ever at Busch Gardens® Christmas Town™, the park’s award-winning holiday event. New this year, the event kicks off with a preview weekend with light displays and select entertainment elements on November 14 and 15. Christmas Town runs daily with park-wide festive fun from November 20, 2020 through January 3, 2021.
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To bring the merriment to life, Busch Gardens’ creative team has consulted with medical experts to offer a modified event with required reservations and limited capacity that celebrates the spirit of the season safely. This seasonal event features open-air entertainment and experiences as well as enhanced health, safety and sanitation measures, including temperature checks, face covering requirements and physical distancing. Included in park admission, park guests can enjoy holiday traditions with a twist, from millions of twinkling lights throughout the park’s 335 acres to physically distant holiday shows, breathtaking animal encounters and contact-free visits with Santa and Rudolph® the Red-Nosed Reindeer.
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​Heartwarming Holiday Entertainment
A warm-weather winter wonderland awaits park guests with a variety of holiday programs offered throughout the event. Guests are encouraged to check the park’s website before visiting to learn which programs are available each date.
  • NEW “Spark the Night” Fireworks Show: This year, guests will have several opportunities to enjoy festive bursts of Christmas colors as they cover the sky in a dazzling display. Fireworks are offered select nights throughout the event at the Festival field, offering plenty of space for guests to spread out and enjoy the sights.
  • “Christmas on Ice”: For the first time ever, park guests can enjoy  Gardens’ longest-running holiday show at a NEW outdoor location on the Festival Stage. This fan-favorite skating production will perform awe-inspiring delights on real ice for physically distant audiences every Friday through Sunday and additional holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve.
  • Elmo’s Christmas Wish: Families can sing and dance with their favorite furry friends in this fun holiday show. Celebrate the Christmas spirit with Sesame Street in the outdoor Sunny Day Theater with physically distant seating.
  • Three Kings Journey: The musical tale of the famed journey to Bethlehem is now offered alongside festive eats at the spacious Dragon Fire Grill.
  • Holly Jolly Express: All aboard for Christmas Cheer! With limited capacity, this locomotive is on track to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with favorite songs of the season as guests venture through the park in festive fashion. 
Card-Worthy and Contact-Free Photo Opportunities
  • Santa’s Merry Meet & Greet: Jolly elves guide guests to see Santa for a physically distant photo at a spacious new outdoor location this holiday season.
  • Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: Jingle all the way to Pantopia to Rudolph’s Winter Wonderland to find the most famous reindeer of all and snap some contact-free pictures with Rudolph and Clarice.
  • Original Christmas Town Characters: For moments that sparkle, guests will encounter the Poinsettia Princess, Sugar Plum Princess, Ice Princess and jolly snowmen throughout their Christmas Town journey.
  • Sesame Street Friends: Enjoy physically distant photo opportunities with everyone’s favorite furry friends in their festive holiday attire.
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Holiday Eats & Unique Gifts
As guests dash through the night between iconic rollercoasters, they can explore the Christmas Town Village: a delicious destination filled with drinks and dishes from an all-NEW chef and mixologist created holiday menu. Beyond a selection of fan-favorite seasonal beers and mulled wine, guests can also choose from a variety of NEW holiday inspired beverages rooted in classic Christmas traditions. These unique, limited time options include specialty cocktails like the “Winter Wonderland Hot Toddy” made with winter cider, honey whiskey and a chai infusion and the festive “Spiked Hot Cocoa” with gingerbread crumbles, caramel and whipped cream.
 
The spirit of the season is in every bite of holiday dishes throughout the park such as sliced pork tenderloin, smoked turkey legs with pumpkin cider glaze, harvest turkey and prosciutto sliders and a variety of peppermint desserts.  The best way for guests to savor and save during the holidays is with a Christmas Town Sampler Lanyard, starting at ONLY $34.99 for a 5-punch lanyard. Pass members can enjoy an extra special offer with an exclusive 12-punch lanyard for the price of a 10-punch lanyard to sip and savor throughout the event.
 
After fueling up for festive fun, guests can check everyone off their holiday shopping list from dazzling ornaments to charming nutcrackers with Busch Gardens exclusive 2020 holiday merchandise which is only available during this special event.  
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Give the Gift that Gives All Year: Busch Gardens Fun Card and Annual Passes
For a limited time, buy a 2021 Fun Card and get the rest of 2020 FREE or upgrade to an Annual Pass starting as low as $11.50 per month with no down payment. Annual Pass Members* receive 12 months of visits, now with the best benefits ever such as FREE parking, up to 6 free guest tickets, Pass Member VIP Ride Nights, an exclusive 2020 Pass Member Ornament, and up to 50% savings on merchandise, photo prints, Quick Queue, and more. The Fun Card gives park-goers unlimited access to the park to visit again and again for the remainder of 2020 calendar year and all of 20211 for one low price, but does not include the additional pass benefits!  Visit www.BuschGardensTampa.com for more information, park hours and to purchase tickets, Fun Cards or Annual Passes.
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​Expanded Health and Safety Measures:
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is committed to the health and safety of our guests, employees, and the animals in our care. The park has worked diligently with state and local health experts, outside consultants and attraction industry leaders to enhance our already strict health, safety, and cleanliness standards. These protocols and guidelines will be modified based on evolving industry standards and methodologies, public health, and governmental directives, and advancing scientific knowledge on the transmissibility of COVID-19.
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Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is excited to continue to provide our guests with fun, inspiring and memorable experiences, while addressing important health and safety needs during this time. For detailed information about the measures that guests can expect when visiting the park, including key operational changes, visit buschgardens.com/tampa/safety

Be the first to know about event details and special offers by visiting www.ChristmasTown.com and following Busch Gardens Tampa Bay on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

I am a Busch Gardens blogger ambassador. In exchange for sharing upcoming information sometimes I receive complimentary admission to events. As always, all opinions are my own.
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Get Spooked at Busch Gardens Tampa’s Howl-O-Scream

10/2/2020

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I was invited by Busch Gardens to attend their Howl-O-Scream event this year. This was my first time attending this event in Florida. I used to go to this event when I was younger at their Virginia theme park. This year things are a little bit different due to the need for social distancing. There are no haunted houses but there are still plenty of scares!

This year there are 10 scare zones instead of haunted houses. The scare zones vary in size and type. Some are more elaborate While others are more of a walk-through as you are going to other areas of the park. They are all well-themed and they do a great job. There is social distancing through most of the park and most of the scare zones as well. The employees do a good job not getting too close to you but still making you feel like they are.
My favorite scare zones were Little Nightmares, Dia Los Muertos, the Shortcut, and the Junkyard. Dia Los Muertos was not very scary but super beautiful - so be sure to snap some pics!

This year there is also a great show called “Fiends” which I HIGHLY recommend! This show is definitely not for children, so if they are with you don’t go. But if you are kid free be sure to check out this funny and a little bit raunchy show! It is not your typical Halloween show! I do recommend arriving about 30 minutes early to secure a spot as there is social distancing taking place in the seating areas.
There are also some yummy eats and drinks not just for the Halloween event but if you get to Busch Gardens earlier in the day you can take advantage of the Bierfest. We almost missed it but did get to take advantage of a few drinks and bites!
My favorite HOS “snack” were the Jell-O shots in the syringes.
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You still have time to get your “scream” on at Busch Gardens this Halloween season! Head to their website to reserve your date and ticket as they are doing limited capacity due to COVID-19. Masks are required.

update: I forgot to add that when you arrive they take your temperature using thermal cameras so you don’t even have to stop! You just walk on through, which I found very cool! Plus when you get your wristband for HOS they hand it to you to put it on yourself due to COVID-19 measures. I really liked this.
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I am a Busch Gardens blogger ambassador. In exchange for sharing upcoming information sometimes I receive complimentary admission to events. As always, all opinions are my own.
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“Flicks & Frights” Now Showing at SeaWorld Orlando with Limited Capacity Weekends through October 31!

9/17/2020

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It’s the perfect season for a spooky movie under the stars at SeaWorld. Drive in for a safe, nostalgic experience that starts with enjoying locally sourced food trucks and ends with watching a classic Halloween feature (or two) from the comfort and safety of your car.
Please Note: Per Orange County regulations, a face covering will be required if you are outside of your vehicle.

WHEN: 
Reservations are available now for festivities taking place Saturdays Sept. 19 through Oct. 31 and Fridays Oct. 23 and 30. 
Family-friendly Halloween film: 7:45 p.m./ Fright-filled Halloween film: 10:30 p.m.
  • September 19
    • Hotel Transylvania
    • IT
  • ​September 26
    • Ghost Busters
    • *TBD Fright Filled Flick
  • October 2
    • Frankenweenie
    • The Purge
  • October 10
    • Beetlejuice
    • Pyscho
  • October 17
    • A Nightmare on Elm Street
    • Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride
  • October 23
    • *TBD Family Friendly Flick
    • Scream
  • October 24
    • Casper
    • The Exorcist
  • October 30
    • *TBD Family Friendly Flick
    • Friday the 13th (1980)
  • October 31
    • Hocus Pocus
    • Halloween
Access to SeaWorld Orlando’s “Flicks & Frights” requires a separate guest reservation in addition to the regular reservation required for park access via guest ticket or pass. "Flicks & Fireworks" is $40 per vehicle and includes a reserved guest parking spot in an exclusive lot with access to locally sourced food trucks all from the comfort and safety of the guest’s personal vehicle.  For guests who do not wish to visit SeaWorld during the day, Flicks & Frights is also available for purchase without park admission.
 
SeaWorld Orlando Annual Pass members receive a 20% discount on the event!
Purchase tickets and check back each week for upcoming shows at:   https://.seaworld.com/orlando/events/drive-in-movie/
 
SAFETY:​ 
SeaWorld Orlando is committed to the health and safety of our guests, employees, and the animals in our care. The park has worked diligently with state and local health officials, outside consultants and attraction industry leaders to enhance our already strict health, safety and cleanliness standards. These protocols and guidelines will be modified based on evolving industry standards and methodologies, public health, and governmental directives, and advancing scientific knowledge on the transmissibility of COVID-19.
SeaWorld Orlando is excited to continue to provide our guests with fun, inspiring and memorable experiences, while addressing important health and safety needs during this time. For detailed information about the measures that guests can expect when visiting the resort, including key operational changes, visit Seaworld.com/orlando/safety.
I am a SeaWorld Orlando blogger ambassador.  In exchange for sharing upcoming information sometimes I receive complimentary admission to events.  As always, all opinions are my own.
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Rosen Hotels & Resorts Reopens Clarion Inn Lake Buena Vista in Central Florida As Rebranded Rosen Inn Lake Buena Vista On Oct. 1, 2020

9/17/2020

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Rosen Inn Lake Buena Vista, the seventh of eight Rosen Hotels & Resorts to now bear the Rosen name.
On May 15, 1987, renowned Orlando hotelier and philanthropist Harris Rosen opened his fourth hotel in the now eight-hotel Rosen Hotels & Resorts collection in Orlando. The then 320-room Comfort Inn Lake Buena Vista (now 640 guestrooms and the Clarion Inn Lake Buena Vista) opened and maintained an unheard of 100 percent occupancy for five straight years. The secret?

“We simply deployed a flashing billboard along Interstate 4 reading ‘Best Rates in Town,’” said Rosen. 

Guests flocked to the property just a few miles from Walt Disney World Resort. The hotel reached maximum capacity on opening night. Rosen himself stood in the parking lot re-directing overflow guests to his three other Rosen hotels – the now Rosen Inn International, Rosen Inn closest to Universal and the Rosen Inn Pointe Orlando, all on International Drive.
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Harris Rosen in 1987 in front of his new Comfort Inn Lake Buena Vista.
“That property ran at 100 percent occupancy for five consecutive years,” said Rosen. “It is one of my proudest accomplishments as a hotelier.” And just one of the many reasons why Rosen’s hospitality acumen is revered world-wide.

The Comfort Inn Lake Buena Vista quickly expanded to 640 guestrooms and became the Clarion Inn Lake Buena Vista on Dec. 10, 2009. And now, is ready to stand on its own within the Rosen brand as the Rosen Inn Lake Buena Vista.

“I am grateful for the Comfort Inn and Clarion Inn names and the brand awareness they afforded me as I grew my collection of Central Florida hotels,” said Rosen. “Despite the recent pandemic, we have been planning this rebranding for close to two years. And do not want to wait any longer to unveil another Rosen Inn hotel as we reopen amidst the current pandemic.
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With an ideal location just minutes to Walt Disney World Resorts, the Rosen Inn Lake Buena Vista puts families first with plenty of outdoor water fun including Ozzie's Splash Zone.
“The Rosen Inn brand is built on family,” said Rosen. “It is the culmination of a lifelong dream to have all of my hotels under one umbrella where families – from our guests to our own Rosen family of associates – are paramount. While we have combined the best practices culled through years in the industry to create the best accommodations’ experience in Orlando, we are most proud of the heart of our company and our valued associates who are dedicated to welcoming our guests to a true home away from home. I’m most certain this is why we enjoy seeing so many of the same smiling faces from all over the country and the world returning each year to our humble properties.” 

With six of Rosen’s hotels on International Drive, with the 1501-room Rosen Shingle Creek luxury hotel with 524,000 sq. ft. of meeting and event space on Universal Blvd. less than two miles away, the property within Lake Buena Vista has always been the “lone ranger.”

“I purchased this hotel so that I would have one within my collection that accommodated the Walt Disney World guest and the many families looking for affordable accommodations during their Disney stays,” said Rosen, who was director of hotel planning when Walt Disney World opened in 1971 and was instrumental in the pre-opening design and success of Disney’s Contemporary and Polynesian resorts.

As a Disney Good Neighbor Hotel, when the rebranded Rosen Inn Lake Buena Vista reopens on Oct. 1, 2020, it will continue to offer the identical exemplary opportunities such as free parking and free Wi-fi in guestrooms, while never a resort fee. And plenty of room to roam among its 23 acres that offers water features throughout, including a children’s splash zone play area and covered lakeside picnic area.
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The beautiful Lakeside Pavilion at the Rosen Inn Lake Buena Vista is a favorite locale for special events and celebrations.
A new “VIP Perks Program” offers guests, including those on the Choice Hotels’ points program, an opportunity to receive plenty of savings at the newly-branded property. Guests also can book the new Fun-Cation getaway with rates starting at just $59 a night, plus tax, that includes exclusive buy-one-get-one free offers at area attractions.* Walkable to much of the area’s shopping, dining and sights, the pristine hotel also is home to Bella Vista, a Rosen venue ballroom and local favorite for intimate weddings and celebrations, small meetings and more. 

“We are so honored to be part of the Central Florida hotel landscape and cannot wait to welcome our guests back to the hotel as a Rosen Inn when we reopen on Oct. 1,” said General Manager Bob Coletti, a twenty-plus-year Rosen associate. “While our dedication to an exemplary guest experience has never wavered, we are excited to now be part of the Rosen brand and to welcome guests who will readily recognize the attributes the Rosen name provides.”

Rosen Inn Lake Buena Vista guests can enjoy their stay with peace of mind with Rosen’s Total Commitment™, a guest and associate safety and well-being initiative implementing the highest standards of cleanliness and security. Jointly developed with the healthcare professionals at the Rosen Medical Center, the hotel’s general manager and department heads and the corporate risk management team, the program has transformed the consistently spotless properties at every level with new measures, vetted and tested for the utmost effectiveness in line with the CDC requirements for COVID-19. 

New measures include social distancing parameters and easily-accessible hand sanitizers found throughout the hotel. Hospital-grade disinfectants designed to kill viruses will be administered through touchless electrostatic sprayers to continuously and thoroughly sanitize each guestroom. Temperatures will be taken at guest and associate entrances for swift and effortless coronavirus screening. For additional measures and program details, visit Rosen's Total Commitment.

The Rosen Inn Lake Buena Vista is located at 8442 Palm Parkway, Lake Buena Vista, Florida 32836. For more information, please visit RosenInnLBV.com or call 407-996-7343.

*To book, call 866-33-ROSEN (76736) or visit RosenLBV.com/Fun-Cation. Package is available now through Nov. 15, 2020.
I am a Rosen Hotels blogger Ambassador. In exchange for my postings and reviews sometimes I am offered admission to events. However, all opinions are my own.
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10 Terrifying Scare Zones with Limited Capacity Cover Busch Gardens Tampa in Frights for Howl-O-Scream 2020

9/17/2020

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TEN TERRIFYING SCARE ZONES WITH LIMITED CAPACITY COVER
BUSCH GARDENS ​IN FRIGHTS FOR HOWL-O-SCREAM 2020
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​This year’s modified Howl-O-Scream event will include ten terrifying scare zones throughout Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s expansive 335-acre park, including four all NEW zones. Designed to scare safely, the creative production team has consulted with medical experts to modify this year’s zone designs with a physical distancing focus, as well as enhanced health and safety measures, while staying true to the terrifying experience fans crave. With significantly limited capacity to create plenty of open space, guests will experience the heart-pounding fear of NEW horrors as they dash between thrilling rollercoasters and the fan-favorite Fiends show every Friday through Sunday from September 25-November 1, 2020.

ALL-NEW 2020 Scare Zones with Limited Capacity
  • NEW: Lycan Landing: It’s always a full moon at this campground and the park rangers can’t hear you scream. When the campfires burn out, will you escape the glowing eyes leering through the trees or will you share their cursed fate?

  • NEW: The Shortcut: Cutting through the cemetery may seem like an easy way out, except when the corpses rise from the ground to invite you into their graves

  • NEW: The Junkyard: You’ll find more than spare parts as you explore this surly scrap site. Will you make it out in one piece or be devoured by the haunted rubble?

  • NEW: The Escape: In this treacherous realm, chaos reigns and rules are made to be broken. The escaped inmates of Grey Echo Penitentiary seek their own twisted form of justice and they’re ready to deliver your sentence.
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These four all-new scare zones join a collection of returning fan-favorites. The complete list of frights, reservations and more are available now at www.HowlOScream.com.  Guests are strongly encouraged to make reservations early as reservations are required and space is limited each night.
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On Your Way to Fiends, Enjoy a Taste of Bier Fest During Howl-O-Scream:
As guests roam between zones and coasters, they can enjoy select favorites from the Bier Fest menu available throughout the night. Delicious drinks and dishes from favorite culinary cabins are the perfect grab-and-go accompaniment as guests head to the Festival Field for the fan-favorite Fiends show starring Dr. Freakenstein and his frightful entourage, on its largest stage ever! Bench seating will be arranged in a physically distant manner to ensure there is plenty of space for a limited number of guests to enjoy each performance.

Best Way to Play: Buy Early and Save!
In addition to enhancing the park’s already strict health and safety measures, park capacity will be significantly limited for guests to enjoy Howl-O-Scream. Reservations are limited each night, so guests are encouraged to buy their tickets now at an advanced rate for a discounted gate price and make their reservations at www.HowlOScream.com. Additionally, Pass Members and Fun Card holders enjoy exclusive discounts for Howl-O-Scream.
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Additional Expanded Health and Safety Measures:
For general admission and special events including Howl-O-Scream, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is committed to the health and safety of our guests, employees, and the animals in our care. The park has worked diligently with state and local health experts, outside consultants and attraction industry leaders to enhance our already strict health, safety and cleanliness standards. These protocols and guidelines will be modified based on evolving industry standards and methodologies, public health, and governmental directives, and advancing scientific knowledge on the transmissibility of COVID-19.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is excited to continue to provide our guests with fun and memorable experiences, while addressing important health and safety needs during this time. For detailed information about the measures that guests can expect when visiting the park, including key operational changes, visit
buschgardens.com/tampa/safety.

Learn More:
Visit HowlOScream.com to make a reservation now and learn more about this year’s Howl-O-Scream. Stay tuned for more dreadful details by following Howl-O-Scream on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Howl-O-Scream is intended for a mature audience. This event contains intense adult content such as violence, gore, and blood. Howl-O-Scream 2020 is a separately-ticketed night event. Protective Face Coverings are required, but no costumes are allowed
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​I am a Busch Gardens blogger ambassador. In exchange for sharing upcoming information sometimes I receive complimentary admission to events. As always, all opinions are my own.
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Orlando: Let the Fun-Cation Begin at Rosen Hotels & Resorts

8/19/2020

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Make Orlando Your Personal Playground with
Rosen Hotels & Resorts’ New Fun-Cation™ Package

Mix and Match Exclusive BOGO Offers –
For Hotel Dining Outlets, Shingle Creek Golf Course,
Partner Attractions, Outdoor Adventures and More!
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Three outdoor swimming pools offer plenty of room to relax and unwind at Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando, minutes from Orlando's world-class theme parks and attractions.
If today’s pandemic has you feeling more “senior” than “sanguine” and fatigued beyond your years, turn back the clock with a world-class recess at Rosen Hotels & Resorts in Orlando.

What better destination for play than Orlando with an unrivaled menu of fun things to do. And what better choice of accommodations than the “local favorite” Rosen Hotels & Resorts, where they take fun seriously.

Super-affordable Rosen Fun-Cation Packages start at $59 per night at Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando and $89 per night at Rosen Plaza (plus applicable taxes),both ideally located on famed International Drive, minutes to area attractions and steps from the Pointe Orlando entertainment complex. Rosen Fun-Cation guests enjoy deluxe accommodations with all of the comforts of home including flat screen cable TV, as well as complimentary self-parking, complimentary guestroom Wi-fi and never a resort fee. Add exclusive Buy-one/Get-one free offers (BOGOs) valued at more than $500 for double the savings and fun!

To book, call 866-33-ROSEN (76736) or visit RosenHotels.com/Fun-Cation. Package is available now through Nov. 15, 2020.*

Fun-Cation guests will rack up the savings with unprecedented BOGO offers at many of the hotel dining outlets.
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Jack's Place restaurant at Rosen Plaza features Harris Ranch Prime steaks and fresh seafood.
At Rosen Plaza, buy one entree and receive one free at the award-winning Jack’s Place restaurant featuring Harris Ranch Prime steaks and fresh seafood. For casual fare complemented by Orlando's balmy breezes, enjoy multiple offers at '39 Poolside Bar & Grill including Happy Hour with half off select appetizers and BOGO specialty burgers, as well as a free mimosa with the purchase of an entree at the Sunday Brunch. Lite Bite is the place for quick snacks, beverages and meals on-the-go, where guests enjoy a BOGO on the Hot Breakfast Platter. Rosen’s Perfect Pizza® is always a favorite and can be customized with just the right toppings.

At Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando, the Lite Bite is the place to grab a quick service meal, snacks, beverages and Starbucks® coffee to go. Here guests will enjoy a choice of Buy one/Get one free on the Hot Breakfast Platter, Rosen’s Perfect Pizza® or Hot Dog Combo. All offers are one per stay. Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando guests also will receive all of the BOGO dining discounts available at Rosen Plaza, right next door.
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The revered Palmer legacy is preserved in Shingle Creek Golf Course's unique design challenging golfers of every level of play.
For plenty of outdoor adventures, interactive experiences and more for the young and the young at heart, choose from Orlando’s best places to play with BOGOs and other discounts offered exclusively to Rosen guests:

  • Complimentary I-Ride Trolley passes.
  • Shingle Creek Golf Course -- Buy one round of golf/Get one free (including preferred tee times) at Rosen Hotel’s own 18-hole, championship golf course.
  • Wonderworks – Buy one adult ticket/Get one adult ticket free.
  • Magical Midway – Buy one three-hour wristband/Get one free.
  • Star Flyer and Wheel at ICON Park – Buy one combo ticket/Get one free.
  • Gatorland – Buy one adult ticket/Get one child’s ticket free (children ages 3-12, under 3 are free).
  • Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf – Buy one round/Get one round free.
  • Chocolate Kingdom – Buy one adult tour/Get one adult tour free.
  • Seminole Aerial Adventures Upland Course at the Central Florida Zoo – Buy one adventure/Get one free.
  • Dave & Busters – Buy a $20 game card and receive $40 in game value
  • Andretti Indoor Karting – 20 percent off all attractions.
  • Fun Spot America Theme Park – Special reduced rate for Rosen Fun-Cation package guests.
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Guests enjoy scenic views and the Orlando sunshine while dining at '39 Poolside Bar & Grill at Rosen Plaza.
To some, the greatest adventures are better conjured in one’s own mind, while dreamily lounging poolside with a cold beverage at hand. Rosen Plaza’s lavish tropical outdoor swimming pool with a waterfall grotto is a guest favorite with its fluffy towels and attentive wait staff handily delivering refreshments from nearby ‘39 Poolside Bar & Grill. Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando offers not one, but three outdoor swimming pools, as well as a video arcade, outdoor pool table and covered outdoor picnic-bench seating, perfect for families of all sizes. Plenty of lush landscaping throughout both properties envelop meandering sidewalks, ideal for soothing strolls to relax and unwind.

Time away is needed now more than ever before. Rosen guests can enjoy their stay with peace of mind with Rosen’s Total Commitment™, a guest and associate safety and well-being initiative implementing the highest standards of cleanliness and safety. Jointly developed with the healthcare professionals at the Rosen Medical Center, the hotel’s general manager and department heads and the corporate risk management team, the program has transformed the consistently spotless properties at every level with new measures, vetted and tested for the utmost effectiveness in line with the CDC requirements for COVID-19.

New measures include social distancing parameters and easily-accessible hand sanitizers found throughout the hotels. Hospital-grade disinfectants designed to kill viruses are administered through touchless electrostatic sprayers to continuously and thoroughly sanitize each guestroom. New walk-through temperature taking units at guest and associate entrances provide swift and effortless health screening. For additional measures and program details, visit RosenHotels.com/RosensTotalCommitment/.

*The Rosen Fun-Cation Package with BOGO and discount offers cannot be combined with any other promotions, discounts or offer and cannot be used with group business. Package is subject to availability; black-out dates may apply. For more information visit RosenHotels.com/Fun-Cation.


I am a Rosen Hotels blogger Ambassador. In exchange for my postings and reviews sometimes I am offered admission to events. However, all opinions are my own.
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Orlando: Huge Summer Savings at Discovery Cove® With Limited Time Offer

7/27/2020

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Ever been interested in visiting the hidden little tropical paradise in Central Florida named Discovery Cove? Now is your chance to do so at a great rate! I personally went a few years ago and it was like a private all-inclusive beach day!
WHAT:
Guests can save between 20% - 40% on both Discovery Cove’s Day Resort and Signature Dolphin Experience all-inclusive packages. In addition to enhanced health and safety measures, capacity at Discovery Cove will be further limited to create an even more exclusive experience and for guests to enjoy the all-inclusive resort with even more open space.
 
WHEN:                
Reservations can be booked now through August 2 for visitation through December 24, 2020. Advanced Reservations are required and limited, guests are encouraged to reserve early.
 
DETAILS:          
Guests who make their reservation before August 2 can save between 20% and 40% on reservations! Discounts range by day for available dates through December 24, 2020.
Visit DiscoveryCove.com or call 407-513-4600 for details and to book a reservation today for an amazing getaway close to home.

SAFETY:              
Discovery Cove is committed to the health and safety or our guests, employees, and the animals in our care. The resort worked diligently with state and local health officials, outside consultants and attraction industry leaders to enhance our already strict health, safety and cleanliness standards. These protocols and guidelines will be modified based on evolving industry standards and methodologies, public health and governmental directives, and advancing scientific knowledge on the transmissibility of COVID-19.

Discovery Cove is excited to continue to provide our guests with fun, inspiring and memorable experiences, while addressing important health and safety needs during this time. For detailed information about the measures that guests can expect when visiting the resort, including key operational changes, visit Discoverycove.com/orlando/park-info/park-safety/
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​I am a SeaWorld Orlando/Discovery Cove blogger ambassador.  In exchange for sharing upcoming information sometimes I receive complimentary admission to events.  As always, all opinions are my own.
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Looking for something new to do in Central Florida? No Prob-Lama - Visit LunaSea Alpaca Farm

7/9/2020

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If you are like me, you are always looking for something new and exciting to do around Central Florida.  Don’t get me wrong, I love the theme parks, but I also like discovering new places to visit.  Staying indoors during this COVID pandemic has really been tough for me too, because I get so antsy doing nothing, but like most people, that is what I’ve been doing.  So I finally decided to take a step outside and go somewhere that has been on my bucket list for the last year - LunaSea Alpaca Farm. 
​

LunaSea Alpaca Farm is located in Clermont, not far from Lakeridge Winery (so maybe next time add it to your plans before a day of wine tasting!).  The farm is family owned with mainly alpacas and a few llamas.  They offer tours, which you reserve in advance, for a donation of $10 each person.  The tours are limited to a small number of guests and right now during the pandemic you can feel safe to keep your distance and wear your mask (although at the time attended not required - not sure if county rules have changed since visiting).  

The tour (led by King) was informative, interactive, and unlike anything I had ever experienced.  Although you don’t really walk very far, you are up close and personal with the Alpacas like nowhere I have ever been in my life. We got to be in their areas, pet them, feed them treats, and just be with them while they roam free.  
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It was interesting to learn that alpacas do not have top teeth, so although you see these huge teeth protruding from their mouth, they cannot bite you.  This made me feel a lot safer around them and made the experience a lot more enjoyable.  The babies of course were the highlight.  They were so cute and just wanted to "chew" on everything - the chair, my purse, etc.
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The tour lasted probably about an hour total and it was so much fun!  I honestly cannot wait to go back and take others with me so they can experience what I did, as I feel it is something very unique that is being offered here in Central Florida.  
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Something new that LunaSea Alpaca Farm is starting to offer is “alpaca yoga” where you actually get to do yoga with the alpaca’s roaming around and then play with the babies afterwards.  This is something I may consider trying out in the future now that I have been getting into yoga.

For more information on LunaSea Alpaca Farm:
Visit their website:
www.lunaseaalpacafarm.com
Facebook page: 
www.facebook.com/LunaSeaAlpacaFarm 
Give them a call to book a tour:
352-223-9459

Now... for more adorable photos...
Me after she took a treat from my mouth...
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A short video...
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Now Premiering at SeaWorld Orlando: "Flicks & Fireworks"

7/9/2020

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For the first time in the park’s history,
​guests can enjoy movies and fireworks under the stars from July 10-12!
WHAT: 
SeaWorld is announcing a NEW event for one weekend only! Experience the fun, nostalgia, and magic of movies under the stars with SeaWorld’s park-and-view drive-in movie theatre! In addition to locally sourced food trucks offering plenty of snack options, back by popular demand, the park’s spectacular fireworks display “Light up the Sky” will be shown Friday (July 10) and Saturday (July 11) night for both park guests and movie goers to enjoy. “Light up the Sky” will also take place Sunday (July 12) evening for those guests attending “Flicks & Fireworks.” 
 
WHEN: 
Reservations are available for booking now for festivities taking place July 10-12. Each evening, food truck service will begin at 7:45 p.m. with movies immediately following the 9:00 p.m. fireworks display.

Movies or "Flicks" include:
  • ​​July 10: ​Shark Tale, rated PG 
  • ​​July 11: ​A Dog’s Purpose, rated PG 
  • ​​July 12: Karate Kid, rated PG
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THE DETAILS:
Access to SeaWorld Orlando’s “Flicks & Fireworks” requires a separate guest reservation in addition to the regular reservation required for park access via guest ticket or pass. "Flicks & Fireworks" is $50 per vehicle and includes a reserved guest parking spot in an exclusive lot with access to locally sourced food trucks and perfect viewing of SeaWorld’s fireworks display, all from the comfort of the guest’s personal vehicle.  For guests who do not wish to visit SeaWorld during the day, Flicks & Fireworks is also available for purchase without park admission and requires a separate reservation.
Purchase Here:   https://seaworld.com/orlando/events/flicks-and-fireworks/
SeaWorld Orlando Annual Pass members receive a 20% discount on the event.
 
SAFETY:​ 
SeaWorld Orlando is committed to the health and safety of our guests, employees, and the animals in our care. The park has worked diligently with state and local health officials, outside consultants and attraction industry leaders to enhance our already strict health, safety and cleanliness standards. These protocols and guidelines will be modified based on evolving industry standards and methodologies, public health, and governmental directives, and advancing scientific knowledge on the transmissibility of COVID-19. SeaWorld Orlando is excited to continue to provide our guests with fun, inspiring and memorable experiences, while addressing important health and safety needs during this time.

For detailed information about the measures that guests can expect when visiting the resort, including key operational changes, visit Seaworld.com/orlando/safety
 
Follow SeaWorld on Facebook, Instagram and the SeaWorld Orlando Blog for the latest news from SeaWorld.
​
​I am a SeaWorld Orlando blogger ambassador.  In exchange for sharing upcoming information sometimes I receive complimentary admission to events.  As always, all opinions are my own.
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    Hey Ya'll!

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    Hi all!  I'm Michelle and I have been a lifestyle blogger since 2017.  I used to host fun networking events around Orlando and now I've decided to take a step back and continue to focus on my favorite part - bringing you all the fun happenings around Central Florida, plus filling you in on my travels, life, and more!  I'm a foodie, selfie-taking Millennial that loves spending time at the theme parks, traveling, and spending time with her dog, and trying new wine. I hope you enjoy reading my blog!

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