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A visitor writes: "My family -- 2 adults, 4 children -- will be going to Disney World in December. We are coming from Israel. We have reservations at All Star Sports Hotel. We will be there 5 full days. We are considering 3 days at Disney World. The other two days we are considering a trip one day to Sea World and one day to Universal. Is this a reasonable schedule for a 5 day visit?" Yes. Looks like a nice plan. "How far is it from Disney World to Sea World and Universal?" Universal is on Kirkman Road (exit 30 on I-4), around the 5900 block of International Drive. SeaWorld is 5 miles from Universal. WDW is 10 miles from Universal. "Would there be an advantage to renting a car for those days in place of a bus or shuttle?" You will need to rent a car, take a taxi, or use a town car service to get to SeaWorld. "Where can I obtain maps of the area and general information on Sea World and Universal?" Call the Official Visitor Center in Orlando 407/363-5872. "For the two days when we will take side trips, would it be less expensive or otherwise advisable to stay at a hotel in Orlando instead of staying at the Disney hotel?" All Star Sports is very affordable. Stay where you are. For more insider tips, see our book, "Secrets To An Affordable Walt Disney World® Vacation."
Busch's All-Day Dining Deal: SeaWorld, Busch Gardens and Aquatica
visitors can buy wristbands good for unlimited dining at their cafeteria-style
restaurants. Adults: $25.95; children (9 or less): $11.95, with tax. Includes
entree, side or dessert, and soda or bottled water each visit. Baby back
ribs are excluded. SeaWorld participating restaurants: Hospitality House
Deli, Mama's Kitchen Healthy Alternatives, Mango Joe's, Seafire Inn, Smoky
Creek, Spice Mill and Voyager. Aquatica: Banana Beach Cookout, Mango Market
and Waterstone Grill.
SeaWorld is testing Shamu's Smartguide, a 3" x 3 1/2" handheld unit
that serves as a GPS and provides useful park information.
"The latest Sesame Street offering at SeaWorld is Elmo and Abby Cadabby's
Treasure Hunt, a song-and-dance show that will appear a few times each morning
through Labor Day."
"SeaWorld Orlando is experimenting with hand-held "interactive park map"
devices that combine video background on its attractions with
global-positioning technology."
Busch Gardens and SeaWorld have increased their base ticket price by $2.
One-day, one-park ticket: $69.95
"Nights are brighter at SeaWorld Orlando with new AfterDark shows
[offering] entertainment not available during the day."
"SeaWorld Orlando announced details today for its new roller coaster,
Manta which park officials said will seamlessly take guests from the
awe of encountering rays in underwater flight into the sensation of actually
being one." Manta opens summer 2009.
Manta, Ride The Flying Ray Fact Sheet SeaWorld Orlando has announced the next generation of SeaWorld thrills with Manta -- a new mega-attraction which will seamlessly transition guests from the awe of watching rays in underwater flight... into the sensation of actually being one. Swooping over sea and sky, Manta will inspire riders with amazing underwater animal habitats, then soar them face-down aboard a manta-inspired flying coaster. Manta opens summer 2009. FROM SEEING... THE ANIMALS
Total Animals: 3,000 TO BEING... THE RAY
Type of Ride: Flying coaster |
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SeaWorld Orlando Announces New Mega-Attraction Coming In 2009 -- Manta, Ride The Flying Ray -- ORLANDO Fla. SeaWorld Orlando announced today the next generation of SeaWorld thrills with Manta -- a new mega-attraction which will seamlessly transition guests from the awe of encountering rays in underwater flight... into the sensation of actually being one. Swooping over sea and sky, Manta will inspire riders with amazing underwater animal habitats, then soar them face-down, in a horizontal position, aboard a manta-inspired flying coaster. Manta opens summer 2009. The Manta flying coaster will create a new level of immersion into the animal world -- in a way only SeaWorld can do -- enveloping riders in a sensation of oneness with the ocean’s most powerful and graceful creature as they soar, dive and plummet through the air.. and at times within inches of the sea. The journey begins the second guests enter a mythical village filled with artisan-created engravings and artwork that celebrate ray legend and lore. No ordinary queue line – the attraction starts with the first step inside. Anticipation builds as guests wind through caverns adorned with ray-inspired art in marble, jewels, and mosaics, all hand-created and left behind by artists who were moved to pay tribute to the beauty, grace and intrigue of these animals. Whether guests choose to ride or not, the attraction is a world unto itself. Floor-to-ceiling windows create mesmerizing face-to-fin encounters with 300 rays, as well as thousands of fish and mysterious creatures native to oceans all over the world. Shark rays, spotted eagles rays, leopard rays, cownose rays, and oscillate river rays float past guests with fluidity and grace in a view new to SeaWorld. Enhancing the feeling of awe, elaborate lighting, sound and rushing waterfalls further submerge guests into this underwater universe. The experience then evolves from seeing ... to being. Inspired by the underwater flight of these powerful creatures, guests will fly face-down, in a horizontal position, underneath the belly of a coaster train shaped as a giant manta. With a wing span of 12 feet, the giant manta will soar over sea and sky in the most graceful flying coaster ever created. Gliding, swooping and diving up to nearly 60 mph, through four inversions on 3,359 feet of track, riders will feel as if they are a ray, taking flight effortlessly from sky to sea -- so close at times that the Manta’s wings skim the waves. "This ride is uniquely SeaWorld," said Dan Brown, Vice President and General Manager of SeaWorld Orlando. "SeaWorld is famous for connecting guests with the sea and its amazing creatures, and Manta does this in a way that has never been done before, creating a true sense of oneness between human and animal. "The sensation of Manta also will be like none other in the world - guests will be inspired by the grace and power of live rays, then feel as if they, themselves, are gliding through air and water," said Joseph Couceiro, Chief Marketing Officer for SeaWorld’s parent company, Busch Entertainment Corporation. "No one but SeaWorld can unite thrills and ocean animals into such a unique experience." The 7-acre, 140-ft tall attraction will be located inside the main entrance to SeaWorld, and become an icon in the park with its unique design. Towering over SeaWorld’s 200-acres, the manta-themed coaster - cloaked in hues of dark purple, ultramarine blue, and cobalt - will lure guests into the world of the mysterious ray. SeaWorld is working with the renowned Swiss coaster design company, Bolliger & Mabillard for the design of Manta. (Source: Press Release, 05/29/08)
More Hours, More Thrills, More Shows During Summer Nights At Busch Gardens Summer event offers street party atmosphere, more time to explore park’s newest attraction TAMPA, Fla. - Play late at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay during Summer Nights, when the adventure park offers extended hours, special entertainment and festive food and drink from June 6 through Aug. 17. In addition to thrilling rides, animal encounters and Broadway-style shows, the 335-acre adventure park will offer additional entertainment throughout the park after 5 p.m. during the three-month event. Four stages will feature skilled performance artists, such as jugglers, a contortionist, plate spinners, hula hoop performers and an aerial bungee act. DJs performing throughout the park and stiltwalkers parading through Jungala in elaborate and colorful nature-inspire costumes create a festive mood. Desert Grill will feature master ventriloquist Kevin Johnson and his Fine Feathered Friends, Clyde and Matilda, an outspoken buzzard and shyer cockatoo. Johnson appeared on NBC’s "America’s Got Talent" in 2006, making it to the semi-finals. He has won Best Male Performer from the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions in 2004 and 2006 and has lectured on puppetry and ventriloquism. A special event for the Fourth of July at Busch Gardens will be music legend Chubby Checker and fireworks in Gwazi Park. Checker made famous the song and dance craze "The Twist" with his 1960 hit. The concert will begin at 8:15 p.m., with fireworks to follow, weather permitting. Summer Nights also offers more time to explore Busch Gardens’ newest attraction, Jungala, a lush jungle village where discovery and exploration invite guests to connect with the world around them. Visitors can experience up-close encounters with orangutans and nocturnal Bengal tigers, which are more active in the evening hours. Families can stay late to explore Tree Top Trails, a three-story play land of climbing nets, mazes and tunnels. Young adventurers can watch the sun set over the treetops on a zip line adventure or while launching into the sky from inside a 35-foot waterfall on the Wild Surge. Park hours for Summer Nights are extended until 9 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays and until 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Summer Nights is included with a day’s paid admission or any annual pass. The Busch Gardens Shuttle Express will offer three additional departure times from Orlando on Mondays and Fridays to accommodate Summer Nights hours. For more information on Summer Nights or Shuttle Express schedules, please call 1-888-800-5447. (Souce: Press Release, 05/20/08)
Visitors to SeaWorld are invited to audition as contestants on the Wheel
of Fortune in September. "Five episodes will be taped each day, making
for four weeks of SeaWheel to be aired sometime in 2009."
"Part of a new exhibit at Tampa's Busch Gardens was closed Sunday
after a female orangutan escaped its enclosure and had to be coaxed into
a back area by officials."
Busch Gardens Welcomes New Baby White Rhino Just in time for Mother’s Day, the adventure park announces latest new addition to Serengeti Plain TAMPA, Fla. - Busch Gardens Tampa Bay announces the birth of a male white rhinoceros on Thursday, May 8, 2008. The rhino was born in the night quarters adjacent to their 26-acre white rhino habitat on Busch Gardens’ Serengeti Plain. Weighing in at an estimated 100 pounds, the newborn - who has yet to be named - is the third calf and first male born to mother Mlelani and father Tombo. The October 2004 birth of Mlelani and Tombo’s first calf, Malaika, marked the first white rhino birth in the adventure park’s 46-year history. Their second calf, Dakari, was born in August 2006. Busch Gardens participates in the American Zoological and Aquarium Association (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP) to ensure genetic diversification among threatened and endangered animals in zoological facilities. The birth brings the total white and black rhino population at the adventure park to 12. Mlelani, Tombo and another female white rhino were airlifted from Kruger National Park in South Africa in 2001 through the efforts of the International Rhino Foundation (IRF), a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection of rhinos. According to the IRF, just over 14,530 white rhinos remain in the wild, and fewer than 170 live in zoological facilities across North America. In 2008, the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund donated $5,000 to Friends of Conservation, $15,000 to International Rhino Foundation, $10,000 to Rhino Fund Uganda and $10,000 to Tusk Trust to support rhino conservation efforts in the wild. The Fund was created in 2003 by the Anheuser-Busch Adventure Parks and is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable foundation dedicated to supporting environmental and wildlife conservation initiatives. Since its inception, the Fund has granted $5 million to more than 350 projects in the U.S. and around the world. For more information, contact Busch Gardens’ Public Relations department at (813) 987-5090. (Source: Press Release, 05/09/08)
"SeaWorld Orlando is providing homes for three adult male California sea lions being relocated from the Columbia River, located approximately 40 miles east of Portland, OR. Government officials in Washington, Oregon and Idaho are relocating the animals under the provisions of the Endangered Species Act as these sea lions are having a significant negative impact on salmon and steelhead trout that are either listed or approaching listing under the Endangered Species Act." The animals will initially be in quarantine for at least 30 days and then be integrated into our populations. We strive to keep marine mammals healthy and safe in their native habitats by providing education programming at our parks and funding for research in the field. The sea lions that join our families of animals will receive exceptional care and play important conservation roles, educating the children and adults who visit them in their new homes. In all, the SeaWorld parks have committed to providing homes for up to 12 of the sea lions. (Source: Press Release, May, 2008)
"SeaWorld Orlando animal care specialist Nik Ricci bottle-feeds a baby manatee, rescued this past Saturday. Two orphaned manatee calves were rescued from Central Florida waters over the weekend and taken to the park for care until they are ready to be released back into nature. SeaWorld’s Animal Rescue Team is on call 24 hours a day, 365 days year, to rescue, rehabilitate and release hundreds of endangered animals each year. Rescued manatees are cared for in a specially designated rehabilitation area at SeaWorld." (Source: Press Release, 05/09/08)
"This spring's trio of openings -- Aquatica at SeaWorld's water park, Toy
Story Mania at Disney's Hollywood Studios and the Simpsons Ride at Universal
Studios -- provides a glimpse into the dress rehearsals required to launch
a new ride."
"Wheel of Fortune is coming to SeaWorld Orlando... The game show,
hosted by Pat Sajak, will be taping 20 shows in front of live audiences at
the theme park this December [to air in 2009]."
There's a new ski show at SeaWorld Orlando.
"A 30-year-old female dolphin died Saturday at SeaWorld's Discovery
Cove after colliding with another dolphin during an aerial stunt."
"SeaWorld Orlando and other Busch Entertainment Corp. parks are converting
their food-service containers and tableware supplies to versions made from
materials that are both farm-raised organic - such as corn and bamboo
- and biodegradable." And no, you can't eat the cutlery.
"SeaWorld Orlando is preparing to build a roller coaster billed as
the theme park's most ambitious and expensive attraction yet. It will be
part thrill ride and part animal attraction, a theme that visitors will
experience from the time they take their place in line until the time they
leave the post-ride area."
Busch Gardens opens Jungala: "The Tampa theme park known for both
its roller coasters and African animal exhibits is opening Jungala this weekend,
offering a couple of new, small rides and focusing attention on new,
close-encounter showcases for its Bengal tigers, orangutans and a handful
of other animals."
Jump Into The Jungle At Busch Gardens Africa New Jungala area features vibrant village, exotic animal habitats, rides and more in the park’s most ambitious family attraction ever With a nearly 50-year history of caring for animals and the environment, Busch Gardens has created the park’s newest adventure - an exotic jungle where discovery and exploration invite guests to connect with the world around them. On April 5, 2008, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay opens Jungala - its newest and most ambitious park enhancement project to date. Set in the Congo area, the 4-acre attraction invites guests to discover exotic creatures, explore a colorful village hidden deep in the jungle and connect with the inhabitants of the lush landscape through up-close animal interactions, multi-story family play areas, rides and live entertainment. At Jungala’s center, a vibrant village comes alive with the sights and sounds of this jungle paradise. Towering trees, cascading waterfalls and elaborate stone structures shape the landscape, transporting guests to a mythical place where the inhabitants - both human and animal - live in complete harmony with nature. From atop the tallest trees or beneath the jungle floor, guests are completely immersed in the animals’ world. Multi-tiered habitats allow visitors to connect with two of the world’s most endangered species - Bengal tigers and orangutans. View orangutans as they maneuver overhead on O-lines, or watch them rest in rope hammocks through glass platforms in a specially designed treehouse. Subterranean caves and underwater windows offer a clear view of tigers swimming in their temperature-controlled plunge pool, while a pop-up dome brings guests face to face with these magnificent predators. Acrobatic gibbons, flying foxes and unusual gharials also make this exotic rainforest home. Two signature rides add to the excitement of Jungala: Jungle Flyers is a zip line experience for young adventurers ages 6 to 13 that offers three different flight patterns above the tree tops. Wild Surge launches 14 passengers out of a mountain crater above a towering waterfall for a thrilling view of the village below. Tree Tops Trails is 3-story climbing area featuring nets, bridges and crawl tubes, allowing families to explore the different layers of jungle life. In the village, larger-than-life stiltwalkers highlight the beauty and grace of the colorful jungle flora and fauna with elaborate costumes representing birds, frogs and even the trees themselves. Zoo Educators introduce guests to jungle creatures such as lemurs, coatimundi and toucans, and children are invited to participate in impromptu games and musical play throughout the day. Jungala also offers two new dining options for Busch Gardens guests. The Bengal Bistro, a newly remodeled version of the popular Vivi Restaurant, and the all-new Orang Café offer seasonal entrées, salads and sandwiches, premium snacks and expanded childrens’ menus for hungry explorers of all ages. For more information on Busch Gardens Africa, call 1-888-800-5447. (Source: Press Release, 04/03/08)
For tips for enjoying SeaWorld's newest water park, Aquatica, see:
Busch Gardens Announces Lineup For 2008 Real Music Concert Series The adventure park continues year-round events with the sounds of the 50s and 60s The Real Music Concert Series is returning to the Stanleyville Theater in 2008 with a spectacular lineup of pop and rock ‘n roll from some of music’s most memorable eras. Scheduled to perform are:
* March 13 - 16: The Lettermen ("Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You") Performance times are 11:30 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Tickets for the Real Music Series are available at the front gate and Stanleyville Theater. Tickets are complimentary, but required to guarantee seating. The Real Music Concert Series is included with regular park admission. (Source: Press Release, 03/03/08) 
"Busch and UAE-based developer Nakheel will together build a SeaWorld,
Busch Gardens, Discovery Cove and Aquatica water park on a man-made island
in Dubai. The resort will also include hotels, spas, shops and restaurants.
"Just days after Busch Entertainment Corp. announced that it would create
a SeaWorld and three other parks in the Middle East boomtown of Dubai, Six
Flags announced Tuesday that it, too, will create a theme park there."
"SeaWorld Orlando's Aquatica is awash with thrills." For a review,
see:
Worlds Of Discovery Planned For Nakheel’s The Palm Jebel Ali In Dubai Busch Entertainment Corporation and Nakheel sign Memorandum of Understanding to develop four theme parks in the United Arab Emirates Orlando, Fla. (Feb. 28, 2008) - Busch Entertainment Corporation (BEC), the family entertainment division of Anheuser-Busch Cos., today announced an agreement with Nakheel PJSC, one of the world’s largest property developers, to create the Worlds of Discovery - SeaWorld, Aquatica, Busch Gardens and Discovery Cove - on The Palm Jebel Ali in Dubai. BEC and Nakheel, a key company in Dubai’s transformation into one of the fastest growing cities in the world, reached agreement earlier this month on the terms of a Memorandum of Understanding that calls for the phased construction of four theme parks on the second of the company’s three Palm man-made island developments. Nakheel will invest the necessary capital to build and operate the parks. BEC will license its brands to Nakheel and operate the parks under a management contract. Worlds of Discovery will occupy a section of The Palm Jebel Ali known as "the Crown," which will resemble a giant killer whale when reclamation work is complete. Nakheel’s plans for The Palm Jebel Ali, currently the world’s largest man-made island, also call for the development of commercial, residential and shopping districts, as well as resort hotels and restaurants. BEC President and Chief Operating Officer Jim Atchison announced the deal today with Nakheel’s Chief Executive Chris O’Donnell in a ceremony at SeaWorld Orlando’s Shamu Stadium. Also present were BEC Chief Marketing Officer Joe Couceiro and Marwan Al Qamzi, Managing Director of The Palm Jebel Ali. "Dubai has become one of the world’s leading tourist destinations, and a key part of the strategy has been attracting world-class entertainment brands to the emirate. We have already concluded partnerships with major brands such as Trump, Cirque du Soleil, and Atlantis, and the partnership with BEC is a further example of Dubai’s growth as a city of global prominence," O’Donnell said. "We are extremely honored that The Palm Jebel Ali will become home to the first Worlds of Discovery theme parks outside of the U.S., which is not only a major coup for Nakheel, but for the whole of Dubai." "We are delighted to sign this unique partnership with BEC. SeaWorld, Aquatica, Busch Gardens and Discovery Cove are incredible entertainment experiences that have thrilled millions of families since opening," Al Qamzi said. "Worlds of Discovery will become the attraction of The Palm Jebel Ali and I am already excited about the prospect of opening the doors to our very first visitors." The Worlds of Discovery project will be phased and includes SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, Discovery Cove and, the company’s newest theme park brand, Aquatica. Worlds of Discovery on The Palm Jebel Ali will also include a variety of other family activities, including resort hotels, spas, shops and restaurants. In addition to SeaWorld and Busch Gardens, plans call for the construction of a Discovery Cove similar to the park adjacent to SeaWorld Orlando in Central Florida. Discovery Cove in Orlando is an all-inclusive, reservations only park that features a variety of animal interactions and resort experiences, most notably swimming with bottlenose dolphins, rays and exotic fish. The first Aquatica, SeaWorld’s waterpark, opened this week in Orlando. Preliminary design work and site planning is underway, with the first phase expected to open in 2012. More than 300 million cubic yards of sand and 10 million tons of rock have been used in the construction of The Palm Jebel Ali, with the island adding more than 52 miles of coastline to Dubai. Reclamation of the island is nearly complete and Nakheel has already begun putting an infrastructure in place that will eventually support a population of more than 280,000 people. BEC President, Jim Atchison, said the partnership provides tremendous growth opportunity for both companies: "Dubai has emerged as one of the world’s great travel destinations. Thanks to the vision of companies like Nakheel, the future for this city and this region is bright. We’re thrilled to be joining the tourism community in the emirate and look forward to a long and fruitful partnership with Nakheel." The Worlds of Discovery in Dubai will be designed and managed by BEC. The parks will be staffed by a combination of BEC expatriates and executives trained in BEC parks in the United States and workers recruited regionally. SeaWorld Dubai will include many of the attractions visitors have come to enjoy in BEC’s U.S. operations, including killer whale, dolphin and sea lion attractions and marine themed rides. BEC will provide all animals for the parks developed in Dubai. About Nakheel Nakheel is one of the world’s largest privately held real estate developers, and a key player in realizing the vision of Dubai for the 21st century: creating a world-class destination for living, business and tourism. Nakheel is developing an iconic portfolio of innovative landmark projects in Dubai across a range of sectors -- residential, commercial, retail and leisure. Nakheel’s developments spread across more than 2 billion square feet of land, and its projects are projected to be worth $60 billion. Upon completion, Nakheel’s waterfront projects will have added more than 600 miles of shoreline to Dubai’s coastline. Nakheel’s portfolio currently includes The Palm Jumeirah, The Palm Jebel Ali, The Palm Deira, The World, The Universe, Waterfront, Jumeirah Islands, Jumeirah Village, Jumeirah Park, Jumeirah Heights, The Gardens, Discovery Gardens, Ibn Battuta Mall, Al Furjan, International City, Dragon Mart Complex, Dubai Promenade, Port Rashid and Dubai Design Centre. Nakheel is a key entity within Dubai World. Dubai World is one of the world’s largest holding companies and supervises a portfolio of businesses and projects for the Dubai government across five continents and more than 100 countries. Further information can be found at www.nakheel.com and www.nakheelmediacentre.com About BEC Orlando-based Busch Entertainment Corporation is the family entertainment division of Anheuser-Busch Companies, Inc. BEC operates 10 Worlds of Discovery parks across the U.S.: SeaWorld Florida in Orlando, SeaWorld California in San Diego, SeaWorld Texas in San Antonio; Busch Gardens Africa in Tampa, Fla., Busch Gardens Europe in Williamsburg, Va.; Discovery Cove in Orlando; Sesame Place in Langhorne, Pa. near Philadelphia; Aquatica, SeaWorld’s waterpark in Orlando; and water parks Adventure Island in Tampa and Water Country USA in Williamsburg. Worlds of Discovery parks employ more than 21,000 people nationwide. Further information can be found at www.WorldsofDiscovery.com (Source: Press Release, 02/28/08)
"SeaWorld's new water park, Aquatica, makes its debut Saturday as
Busch Entertainment Corp. puts the new park through a 'soft' opening for
the new attraction." Grand opening is scheduled for April 4. Tickets: $38.95
for adults; $32.95 for children. Package deals include Aquatica, SeaWorld
and Busch Gardens.
"SeaWorld Orlando rolled out two new hydrogen-powered shuttle buses
Wednesday, joining an experimental program that already powers similar buses
to Orlando International Airport and the Orange County Convention Center."
SeaWorld gave the press a preview of its new water park, Aquatica,
last Friday. The park will have a "soft" opening March 1; its grand opening
will be April 4.
Bud & BBQ Doubles The Decibels In 2008 Event Rocks Busch Gardens Tampa Bay for the First Time and Returns to SeaWorld Orlando, Bigger and Better Than Ever Country music, classic rock and good cookin’ come together during Bud & BBQ, Feb. 16 - March 9 at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and SeaWorld Orlando. For the first time, Central Florida’s sizzling music and barbecue festival rocks all the way to Tampa Bay with eight days of live music, savory barbeque, ice-cold Anheuser-Busch products and a heaping helping of thrilling rides and attractions. Two separate line-ups feature country’s hottest stars and classic rock bands that will have fans on their feet. Barbecue lovers will want to bring their appetites for Bud & BBQ’s succulent menu, featuring Budweiser-inspired dishes like Budweiser Pork Rib Tomahawks, Bud Light chili pepper baby back ribs, Michelob Ultra Amber Bock chili and Pulled Chicken with Amber Bock sauce. At Busch Gardens, Bud & BBQ kicks off Sunday, Feb. 17 with Sara Evans, the Academy of Country Music’s top female vocalist of 2006. On Feb. 24, Styx performs such hits as "Come Sail Away" and "Mr. Roboto" in Gwazi Park. The series wraps up with Billboard country chart-topper Clay Walker on March 2 and platinum-selling artist Gary Allan on March 9. At SeaWorld, Saturdays rock Bayside Stadium with Trisha Yearwood, plus opening act Lori McKenna, on Feb. 16, Creedence Clearwater Revisited on Feb. 23, Craig Morgan & Pat Green on March 1 and Joe Nichols & Jason Michael Carroll on March 8. Show times are 4 p.m. Saturdays at SeaWorld’s Bayside Stadium and 4 p.m. Sundays at Busch Gardens’ Gwazi Park. Concert dates and artists are subject to change. Bud & BBQ is included with regular park admission, Fun Card or any valid Passport membership. For more information, call 1-888-800-5447 or log onto www.BudandBBQ.com The Worlds of Discovery parks include SeaWorld parks in Orlando, San Diego and San Antonio; Busch Gardens Africa and Adventure Island in Tampa Bay and Busch Gardens Europe and Water Country USA in Williamsburg, Va.; Discovery Cove in Orlando; and Sesame Place near Philadelphia. Aquatica, SeaWorld’s waterpark, is under construction in Orlando. Additionally, Busch Entertainment Corporation created the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, a non-profit, private charitable foundation committed to supporting wildlife and habitat conservation, research, education and animal rescue programs worldwide. (Source: Press Release, 02/05/08)
Seaworld Dolphins are Bubblicious: If you think the best requirement for creating a great bubble is a piece of gum... SeaWorld Orlando’s dolphins are about to burst your bubble. Young dolphins at SeaWorld have taken bubble-making to the extreme. Two young juveniles have been observed creating underwater bubbles with their blowhole, then using their rostrum to manipulate and play with the bubbles - spinning them, making them smaller and larger, swimming through them and popping them. This is a phenomenon that has intrigued scientists watching dolphins in the wild and now is fascinating millions of guests at SeaWorld Orlando. For more information or to obtain the footage in a different format, please contact SeaWorld Orlando Communications at 407-363-2280 (Source: Press Release) For video, see: http://www.seaworld.com/sitepage.aspx?PageID=282
"Salt water from some of the giant pools and related plumbing at SeaWorld
Orlando and neighboring Discovery Cove has been leaking into the aquifer,
beneath those theme parks, in some cases for seven years or more, according
to state environmental records."
Orlando Sentinel's theme park rangers comment on SeaWorld's Pets Ahoy
show, Wild Arctic's returning to SeaWorld January 19, Chris Walken's magical
appearance at Universal's reworked "Disaster! A Major Motion Picture Ride
. . . Starring You" and the fun of riding Disney's Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
at night.
SeaWorld's Aquatica "will feature 36 water slides, six rivers and
lagoons, 80,000 square feet of beach plus some unique touches, such as clear-tube
slides that shoot riders through pools filled with dolphins."
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’S Baby Gorilla Turns Two Busch Gardens Tampa Bay celebrated the second birthday of its baby gorilla, Bolingo, Sunday, Nov. 18, with a gorilla-friendly cake and presents. Zookeepers set out the goodies just before 9 a.m. Sunday, at which time Bolingo came on to the Myombe Reserve habitat. He was be joined by other gorillas, including his mother Kishina, for the birthday enrichment activity. The birthday celebration is an example of animal enrichment used by the park’s zoological team to keep the animals active and engaged. Enrichment can take many forms and is usually something different, unusual and challenging that stimulates the animals. Bolingo is the first gorilla born at Busch Gardens. In the past year, Bolingo has reached new milestones. The gorilla is more adventurous, exploring away from his mom and playing more with the adult males. Bolingo has almost doubled in size since last year, now weighing about 25 pounds. Bolingo serves as an ambassador for the gorilla species, bringing greater awareness to the plight of endangered Western lowland gorillas and all endangered great apes. In fact, Bolingo appeared in the Animal Planet Saving a Species special, "Gorillas on the Brink," which was hosted by Oscar-nominated actress Natalie Portman and featured animal expert Jack Hanna. The number of great apes in the wild has decreased drastically due to habitat loss, the bush meat crisis and disease. That fact has spurred the SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund to work with organizations in Africa and worldwide to help protect this species and other endangered animals. The Fund supports five gorilla-related projects in Africa, most notably the Mountain Gorilla Veterinary Project (MGVP) in Rwanda and the International Gorilla Conservation Programme’s community rainwater harvesting project. FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, CONTACT: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Public Relations, (813) 987-5090 (Source: Press Release)
"The Polar Express Experience, a new holiday attraction at SeaWorld
Orlando, pulled out of the station for the first time Friday morning... The
attraction is a temporary overlay of the park's Wild Arctic, which simulates
a helicopter ride to a research station."
For a video of the Polar Express Experience at SeaWorld, see:
"SeaWorld officials confirmed Monday that they, Warner Bros. Pictures and
Iwerks Entertainment are reprogramming the theme park's Wild Arctic simulator
ride, transforming it into a simulated train ride to "Santa Town,"
based on Chris Van Allsburg's children's book The Polar Express and the 2004
animated movie of the same name." "SeaWorld Orlando and its sister parks are getting a new set of prices for ticket packages to encourage more multi-park visits, setting the way for the opening of the company's Aquatica water park in Orlando next spring."
Bush Entertainment has changed the name of its theme park empire from
"Anheuser-Busch Adventure Parks" to "Worlds of Discovery."
Busch Gardens - Jungles Of The World Come Together With a nearly 50-year history of caring for animals and the environment, Busch Gardens is creating the park’s newest adventure - an exotic jungle where discovery and exploration invite guests to connect with the world around them. In spring 2008, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay will open Jungala -its newest and most ambitious park enhancement project to date. Set in the Congo area, the 4-acre attraction will invite guests to discover exotic creatures, explore a village hidden deep in the jungle and connect with the inhabitants of the lush landscape through up-close animal interactions, multi-story family play areas, rides and live entertainment. Towering trees, cascading waterfalls, flowing waterways and elaborate stone structures shape the landscape to transport guests out of their modern-day lives into a mythical place where the inhabitants - both human and animal - live in complete harmony with nature. From atop the tallest trees or beneath the jungle floor, guests will be completely immersed in the animals’ world. Multi-tiered habitats allow visitors to connect with two of the world’s most endangered species - Bengal tigers and orangutans. Treetop observation platforms are the perfect vantage point to watch orangutans within their family groups or resting in a specially designed treehouse. Subterranean caves and underwater windows offer a clear view of tigers swimming in their temperature-controlled plunge pool, while natural bridges and bamboo screens bring guests closer to these exotic predators than ever before. Acrobatic gibbons, flying foxes and mysterious tomistomas also make this exotic rainforest home. In the jungle clearing, the village is anchored by a centerpiece 35-foot rock formation towering above its pathways. Stiltwalkers will parade throughout the village, highlighting the beauty and grace of the colorful jungle flora and fauna with elaborate costumes representing birds, frogs and even the trees themselves. Two signature rides add to the excitement of Jungala: a zip line experience offers three different flight patterns above the tree tops for young adventurers and another ride launches guests up above a towering waterfall. A 3-story family climbing area allows visitors to ascend through the tree canopy on rope bridges to explore the different layers of jungle life, and a children’s water-play area allows even the youngest explorers to interact with the environment. Jungala also will offer two new dining options for Busch Gardens guests. The Bengal Bistro, a newly remodeled version of the popular Vivi Restaurant, and the all-new Orang Café will offer seasonal entrées, salads and sandwiches, premium snacks and expanded childrens’ menus for hungry explorers of all ages. More details will be announced as the new park area nears completion. For more information on Busch Gardens Africa, call 1-888-800-5447 or visit www.buschgardens.com (Source: Press Release, 09/06/07)
Improved Customer Service at SeaWorld: "During the past two years, SeaWorld officials say, they have dramatically ramped up customer-service programs. Additions include a dozen roving guest-service ambassadors, satellite customer-service centers deep inside the park, and sidewalk animal exhibits to entertain people waiting in lines." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 08/28/07)
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’S Baby Rhino Turns One - Adventure Park Celebrates with new enrichment Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s animal care specialists are planning a special first birthday party for Dakari, a female white rhinoceros born at the adventure park. Dakari will be treated to new enrichment toys as well as treats made out of hay and alfalfa. The celebration is an example of animal enrichment used by the park’s zoological team to keep the animals in their care active and engaged. Enrichment can take many forms and is usually something different, unusual and challenging that stimulates the animals. Dakari lives with her mother, Mlelani, and father Tambo and two other white rhinos on Busch Gardens’ 26-acre Serengeti Plain. Hartmann’s zebra, defassa waterbuck, wildebeest and African crowned cranes also make their home on the habitat. The three adult white rhinos were airlifted from Kruger National Park in South Africa in 2001 through the efforts of the International Rhino Foundation (IRF), a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection of rhinos. According to the IRF, just over 11,000 white rhinos remain in the wild, and fewer than 160 live in zoological facilities across North America. Busch Gardens participates in the American Zoological and Aquarium Association (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP) to ensure genetic diversification among threatened and endangered animals in zoological facilities. Dakari’s birth brings the total white and black rhino population at the adventure park to 11. SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund helps to fund conservation organizations, research and animal rescue worldwide. Through the Conservation Fund, Busch Gardens offers a unique 45-minute safari tour in collaboration with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) that gives guests the opportunity to experience up-close encounters with the park’s white rhinos, endangered black rhinos and a variety of other animals as they traverse the 65-acre Serengeti Plain. For each tour purchased, Busch Gardens donates $2 to support WWF’s critical field efforts. FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, CONTACT: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Public Relations, (813) 987-5090 (Source: Press Release, 08/16/07)
"SeaWorld accepts all Florida native birds in need of care as part of its permit with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service... If after treatment, they are not fit to be released, they live out their days in a zoo or aquarium." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 08/17/07)
"Declaring that Shamu Rocks has been a hit since it opened Memorial Day weekend, SeaWorld Orlando last week added a second performance (through August 5) of its summer nighttime show." (Source: blogs.orlandosentinel.com. 07/23/07)
SeaWorld And Discovery Cove Celebrate Spring With New Bundles Of Joy The warming weather welcomed bundles of joy little and big to SeaWorld Orlando and Discovery Cove. From an addition to the Shamu family to the arrival of penguin chicks, SeaWorld’s animal inhabitants welcomed spring with the newest additions to their family. SeaWorld welcomed a new baby killer whale to the Shamu family this past March, bringing the killer whale pod at SeaWorld Orlando to nine whales, ranging in size from a 350-pound calf to a 12,000-pound male. SeaWorld's killer whale breeding program is the most successful in the world. SeaWorld’s feathered friends also welcomed new arrivals in the form of six endangered Nene geese and 16 penguin chicks. The penguins represent a variety of species, including the first Adelie chicks in SeaWorld Orlando history. As they continue to grow into full maturity, the chicks will cuddle up in the Penguin Encounter which is kept at a chilly 30 degrees with six thousand pounds of snow falling daily. Three new harbor seal pups join more than 80 animals living at SeaWorld’s Pacific Point Preserve, including California sea lions and harbor seals. As the weather gets warmer, SeaWorld anticipates the arrival of sea lion pups this summer. Discovery Cove celebrated the arrival of two baby Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. The flippered additions marked the 10th dolphin calf to be born and successfully raised at Discovery Cove since its opening in 2000. The little newcomers - whose gender have yet to be determined - are nursing well and bonding with their mothers. The park also welcomed 18 southern stingray pups this spring. (Source: Press Release)
Summer gets a whole lot sweeter as SeaWorld teams up with Cold Stone Creamery for a statewide tour to serve everyone’s favorite summer treat - ice cream. While on the road, the SeaWorld representatives will be spreading the word about SeaWorld’s newest additions -- five new family-friendly rides and shows -- while dishing out kiddie-sized helpings of Cold Stone’s coolest new SeaWorld-themed flavor, Shamu Swirl. The partnership also features SeaWorld-themed ice cream flavors to be served at nearly 80 Cold Stone locations across the state of Florida during the months of June and July. (Source, Press Release)
"Florida's tallest roller coaster, SheiKra, reopens this weekend, now that Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has stripped the floors out of the coaster's cars." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 06/11/07)
Howl-O-Scream 2007 is a New Spin on Horror Florida’s top-rated Halloween event returns with more shocking new surprises than ever before TAMPA, Fla. (June 1, 2007) - This fall, Howl-O-Scream is back for an eighth season of blood-curdling scares. For 16 select nights, Howl-O-Scream 2007 will transform Busch Gardens Africa into a nightmare of inescapable fear that will overwhelm the senses with a new spin of horror. The devious creatures that infest six haunted houses, five scare zones and three thrilling shows have plenty of psychotic surprises in store, and bone-chilling roller coasters to keep the screams coming all night long. Howl-O-Scream 2007 runs select Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights during October: Oct. 5-6, 11-13, 18-21 and 25-28. Freaky Preview lets guests take a stab at the scares a week early on Sept. 28-30 for discounted rates. Operating hours are 7:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. during Freaky Preview and on Thursday and Sunday nights. Friday and Saturday hours are 7:30 p.m. to 2 a.m. General admission is $59.95 plus tax, with savings available on advance e-ticket purchases at DeathJockey.com. Reduced rates and special offers are also available to Busch Gardens Passport members, at participating AAA locations and for guests wishing to upgrade their paid daily admission to Busch Gardens. Howl-O-Scream is too intense for young children. Parental discretion is advised. For more information on Howl-O-Scream, call 1-888-800-5447. (Source: Press Release, 06/01/07)
3 New Children's Rides Open At Seaworld Orlando: "With the openings Thursday of the Sea Carousel, the Flying Fiddler drop ride and the Ocean Commotion rocking boat ride, Happy Harbor now features six children's rides, two climbing structures, a music attraction and a water attraction. It's all in an enclosed area with a single, easy-to-monitor exit, and relaxation space and amenities for parents." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 05/25/07)
Travel on Demand: "Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, SeaWorld and a couple of cable network companies are hoping people will tune into free on-demand digital channels that provide entertaining looks at their theme parks and other destinations." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 05/16/07)
"Sesame Street's furry little red Elmo character is headed for SeaWorld Orlando to star in a major new show... Starting April 2, a 20-minute live stage show called Elmo and the Bookaneers will be booked into SeaWorld Orlando's Atlantis Bayside Stadium." Also coming soon:
SeaWorld has announced the name of its new water park -- Aquatica. Aquatica will feature a roomy beach area, wave pool, marine animals and rides. Opening is scheduled for 2008. (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 03/05/07) "The signature ride will be a slide that takes people underwater in clear tubes, where they can zoom past dolphins and other marine life." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 03/06/07) "SeaWorld officials Thursday hotly disputed a finding by state investigators that it is "only a matter of time" before a trainer is killed by one of the park's killer whales... SeaWorld officials branded the report's findings "highly speculative and not supported by scientific fact." (Source: Orlando Sentinel, 03/02/07) "After a second day of discussions with SeaWorld officials, Cal/OSHA on Friday agreed to withdraw a report that predicted that a trainer at the park will someday be killed by a killer whale." (Source: latimes.com, 03/03/07)
“Floorless” SheiKra Raises the Bar on Thrills as the Bottom Drops Out On America’s First Dive Coaster SheiKra’s legendary 200-foot, 90-degree vertical dive takes on a different point of view with new, floorless cars Two years ago, Busch Gardens Africa introduced the world to a one-of-a-kind experience: 200 feet up, 90 degrees straight down. And that was just the beginning. On June 16, the adventure park will reintroduce SheiKra to the world with a new twist: “floorless” cars that allow riders an unobstructed view of the 70 mph rush. When SheiKra opened in May 2005, it signaled a new era in American roller coasters. As the nation’s first dive coaster and only the third in the world, SheiKra raised the bar with first-of-a-kind elements like a true 90-degree drop, an Immelmann loop and a second vertical dive into an underground tunnel. Now, technology has raised that bar even higher, introducing SheiKra’s fans to an even greater thrill. Mechanically, SheiKra’s track will remain unchanged, with its combination of drops, inversions and a water feature finale. Psychologically, though, the effect of the floorless cars will be intense: SheiKra’s cars will continue to seat eight passengers across, three rows deep, but riders will no longer be able to brace themselves for Florida’s No. 1 thrill ride against the floor of the car. With the front rail gone, passengers in the first row, especially, will be completely exposed as they come over the crest of SheiKra’s signature 200-foot, 90-degree plunge. Guests’ last day to experience SheiKra in its current form will be Memorial Day, May 28. The following day, America’s first dive coaster will close for approximately three weeks for the floorless conversion construction. The coaster’s existing seats and shoulder harnesses will be fitted into new chassis that support only the chairs above and the wheels below. Between each row of seats will be nothing but open air. The bulk of the changes occur at the loading platform, where retractable floors and handrails will be installed. As each floorless car comes into the station, the floors will raise into position, filling the gaps between the rows so that passengers may board. A pivoting handrail will swing into place in front of the car to assist those boarding the first row. “Through the years, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has set the standard for thrill rides, and I’m confident guests will agree that the park has raised the bar yet again with floorless SheiKra,” said Dan Brown, executive vice president and general manager, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. “SheiKra’s enhancement, along with its unprecedented ride features, really reinforce Busch Gardens’ standing as Florida’s foremost adventure destination.” (Source: Press Release)
Shirley writes: "I am planning a short vacation in the Tampa Area and Busch Gardens. I own an RV, but I cannot seem to find a park nearby. Can you help?" Here's one less than 15 minutes from Busch Gardens:
Happy Traveler RV Park
Rick writes: "Hi John, I just saw my first "new" newsletter. Great Job! This last summer we went to Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia. This was the first trip with the kids and I knew the kids would love Busch Gardens. I checked into rates and figured out a year pass was cheaper than going and buying 3 days. I pre-paid online so the pain of paying was had worn off before we arrived. You get a photo I.D. and easy in-out. Williamsburg also has an associated water park which had it's year-long pass at the same price as a one-day! Needless to say we did the water park and Busch every day and skipped most of the history!" Thanks, Rick, for the pat on the back!
Sherry writes: "I have a question about the SeaWorld tickets. They are offering the same monthly plan on the Sea World/Bush Garden silver, gold, platinum, and bronze passes as well. Our trip is in March. The 5th thru the 12th to be exact. If I ordered these tickets would I be able to use them or do they need to be fully paid for before you can use them? I was unable to find this answer on their website. Thanks so much for the help and for the fantastic website!! I read it all the time!" You pay during each of the 12 months that you use your tickets. In other words, you can use them right away while you pay. For details, click here. Thanks for the pat on the back!
Busch Gardens Tampa offers rain checks to guests who feel that rain has spoiled their day. Just ask. No specific amount of rain must fall. "Under the new policy, Busch Gardens guests may obtain -- as they leave -- a voucher with their photo on it to be used within seven days." (Source: Orlando Sentinel)
Guests at SeaWorld and Busch Gardens can reserve strollers, ECVs and wheelchairs online. To reserve online at SeaWorld, click here. To reserve online at Busch Gardens, click here.
Kelly writes: "I'm not sure if you ever post reviews of any other Florida theme parks, but we just returned from our annual Florida vacation and would like to blow off some steam about Busch Gardens. We love Disney and have visited with our 4 kids several times in the past 10 years. We are always pleased with the excellent customer service, and although we have had a few mishaps in the parks and at our hotels, Disney has always more than made up for it to us. This year we decided to take a 'Disney Break' and just stay at a friends condo on the beach for our vacation. (we were actually trying to take a very cheap vacation so we could save for a Disney Cruise next year) We were about 1 hr. south of Tampa so we decided to check out Busch Gardens. I have now made it a point to tell everyone what a horrible experience we had. It was just as expensive to get in as Disney, but the service was awful, and that's if you could find someone who worked there. The lines were horrible, not really because of the number of people in the park (it didn't seem too crowded) but because their wasn't enough help. The lines to the roller coasters weren't bad, but forget eating or buying anything. I felt like I wasted a lot of money. On a good note, the animals were close and easy to see at the exhibits and the gardens were nice. It seemed clean, but again, there just weren't enough people working there and the ones I encountered were very rude."
The Chambers family writes: We enjoy your newsletter and wanted to respond to the negative review of Busch Gardens a couple of weeks ago. We personally LOVE Busch Gardens and feel that the season tickets to both Busch Gardens and Sea World are the best deal out there! Our family of 3 (parents are 47 and son, 17) each bought a 2 year Gold Pass for less than $180 (per person, price includes both parks.) For that, we get free parking, 10 percent off most purchases and no interest charges as they automatically take 1/24 of the cost out of your credit card with no interest each month for the 2 years. We also plan to get 3 years of visits out of our 2 year purchase as we got our original passes in Feb. 2002, visited again in Feb. 2003, and will go again in Jan. 2004, before they expire. Compared to Disney World, the lines are MUCH shorter and we encountered no rude employees. The animal and Shamu shows are very entertaining and we enjoyed the aquariums and other displays, including gorgeous flowers. We love the ROLLER COASTERS! Thanks for the updates!
A subscriber writes: "sir i have cancer and my family wanted to take me to busch garden and when they went to get me a wheel chair my husband was treated very nasty. my family was very upset so our whole day was treated nasty, i don't think my family should have to be treated so bad and pay for it too."
You're right. Rude behavior is unacceptable. You can voice your concerns:
Dolphin Lover's Family Overnight Sleepover
SeaWorld is offering a new program where families with children 6 and older
spend the night learning about the dolphins and then camp on the beach. The
program includes:
For more information, call 1-800-406-2244 or email Education@SeaWorld.org or click here.
SeaWorld is going to open a seafood buffet restaurant overlooking Shamu Stadium in May. Cost: $28 for adults and $16 for kids 3-9. Park trainers will also be on hand to talk to the diners. SeaWorld is also opening Sharks Underwater Grill within the Terrors of the Deep exhibit this summer.
Lisa wrote us about what happened to a friend of hers at Discovery Cove: "Mr. Gross, I am attaching a letter explaining a recent visit my dear friend made to Sea World's Discovery Cove. It is a rather disturbing account of what her family experienced on their visit. I have her permission to submit the story to you for inclusion on your web page. I have noticed that you allow people to air bad experiences as well as the good ones. I think this story should serve as a warning to families of physically challenged individuals who are considering what I think is a very pricey outing... My friend Joann is taking this up with the management of Discovery Cove. The letter is a copy of what she sent to them... My Friend JoAnn states: First of all, I will preface this letter by telling you that I have multiple sclerosis (MS). My disability seldom gets in my way, even though I cannot walk, my life is much like yours or anyone else's. I have a husband and two sons, ages 7 and 12. I have had MS for 21 years, so I have had a long time to get used to barriers and limits within the context of my everyday life, I try to take them in stride. That being said, let me relay my experiences at your establishment. I first heard of Discovery Cove from an article in my local newspaper. What stood out in that article, for me personally, was that a unique experience such as this was available to the disabled with the provided wheelchairs capable of traveling on sand. As you must know, this is almost unheard of. Finding a vacation specifically geared for the disabled is easy enough, if you have the resources, and travel with others who have a disability. A family experience where all members of one's family has the opportunity to participate together sounded too good to be true! Whenever we go on a beach-type vacation (and there have been many), I am excluded from many activities simply because my scooter or wheelchair will not travel on sand. Discovery Cove made it clear they were the exception to this rule. I was ecstatic! Finally something we could all do together! The very first thing I did was call Discovery Cove and verify that what I read in the article was indeed what you actually offered. I was assured that the large tire wheelchairs were well equipped for sand as long as I had someone to push me. So, we proceeded to plan our entire vacation around the Discovery Cove experience. My children were excited that I was going to be right there in the water with them, as well as on the beach. We all pictured a fun-filled day of me actually being able to join my family on the beach and in the water, provided the weather cooperated. The weather turned out to be the least of our problems. Since we live in a cold climate, Rochester, NY, we decided to come to Orlando during our February school break, and made our Discovery Cove reservations for Feb. 23, 2001 - I did this on- line with no difficulties. Before we left Rochester, just to be on the safe side, I again called Discovery Cove to confirm that there would be a wheelchair available on our reserved day. I was again assured that this would not be a problem. I decided, however, not to participate in the actual dolphin swim experience, as sometimes it takes me awhile for my legs to get acclimated to the water. I knew this would be a group experience - I didn't want to hold anyone up. My children were disappointed, but I assured them that we would spend many hours that day in the water or on the beach together. On February 23rd, we arrived at Discovery Cove at around 9 am. When we made our way to the place where they handed out the snorkeling gear, we inquired about the wheelchair. You can imagine how busy they were at that time so we said we'd take a look around the place and come back. When we returned, it was much less hectic, and the gentleman behind the counter went "in the back" and produced the wheelchair with the large wheels. It looked a little lopsided to me, but I figured once I sat down it would be OK. It was not. It took me a while to get in, longer than it would normally take me. Once I finally struggled in, it was obvious to all of us that it was broken. I was leaning back so far that my face was pointed straight up to the sky, it felt as if I was in a rickshaw rather than a wheelchair! I let the guy know that this was not only uncomfortable, but unacceptable. He then informed me that it was the only one left, it was either that one or nothing. He went behind the counter and got a dozen towels to stuff behind my back attempting to sit me up straight and make me more comfortable. Thinking that my husband could make some adjustments to it, and not wanting to disappoint my children, I put on a happy face and off we went. I left my three-wheel scooter behind knowing it would be useless with so much sand around. My husband attempted to fix the chair so that it was at least tolerable, but it quickly became obvious that it was not going to happen. We made our way to the beach, but the chair was almost impossible to move. I was so disgusted and disappointed that I just found a regular chair next to a table, where I was at least comfortable, and watched my family as they snorkeled and swam away. What a letdown, not only for me, but for my children as well! After a couple of hours of making the best of a bad situation, we proceeded to the restaurant to get lunch. The food was mediocre at best, the women behind the counter were barking "who's next!" as my husband struggled to push me in the broken wheelchair that wouldn't move, push two trays, one for him and one for me, and help my younger son and myself make a snap decision regarding what we wanted for lunch. What a disaster. After lunch, I needed to use the restroom, I had noticed a handicapped one earlier and we made our way there. My husband attempted to push the chair through the doorway and IT WOULDN'T FIT! He was determined that a wheelchair could not possibly be too wide for a handicapped restroom door. As I urinated all over myself and the cement outside the restroom in front of 1000 people or so, I collapsed into tears. I'd had enough. I cleaned myself up and made my way back to where my scooter was and returned the broken down wheelchair. As my family swam with the dolphins, I found my way back to the main entrance to find someone to take my complaint. In a very calm voice, and close to tears, I asked for whoever was in charge. I was greeted by a very cheerful, very young woman. I told her my story and she told me she would gladly refund my ticket price. She was very apologetic, somehow that didn't help my frazzled state of mind. I told her I thought she could do better than that, and her very polite response was that she was not authorized to do more. I inquired as to the options available to me, and asked how I should pursue it from here. That is the reason I am writing this letter... As we went through the morning, we saw only one other park-supplied wheelchair capable of traveling on sand. Out of 1000 people, you can only accommodate two people that need a wheelchair, and one is broken? I think you will agree that this is completely unacceptable. My vacation and my family's vacation was ruined by this experience, and I feel that my entire family's ticket price should be refunded, at the very least. I have no desire to make idle threats, but as you read this letter you must realize the ramifications of the many violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 that we're discussing here... JoAnn Hallimen, Rochester, NY" Lisa, JoAnn's letter disturbed us greatly. We hope that she has received a written apology and financial compensation for her ordeal. Here is what Discovery Cove has posted at its site. "Discovery Cove can accommodate guests with disabilities who are able to maneuver to the wading locations and during the interactions, with limited assistance, or with their own personal assistant. Discovery Cove also offers specially-made outdoor wheelchairs with oversized tires for easy maneuvering on the beach." Click here to send feedback to Discovery Cove.
SeaWorld's Trainer for a Day
Package:
Call 1-877-4DISCOVERY for reservations and availability. Participants must be at least 6 years. Participants under the age of 13 must be accompanied by a paying Trainer for a Day adult.
Parks Adopt Payment Plan: Enjoy 12 months of fun at Busch Gardens, SeaWorld and Adventure Island with a Silver Passport or 24 months with a Gold Passport using the EZpay monthly payment option. Rather than paying for your memberships all at once, you can simply pay on a monthly basis, for the term of your Passports, with no additional cost to you. That means you and your family can visit these Florida parks for less than $5 per month, per person. Benefits include unlimited admission with no blackout dates, complimentary general parking, and special discounts off merchandise, food and drinks. Click here for details.
A subscriber writes: "I am a bit confused about Seaworld/Discovery Cove, are they in the same complex and can they be purchased under one ticket (also how much are the tickets for 2 x adults and 2 x children). By the way I am from England and am visiting Orlando in April this year and am trying to plan an itinerary. Is one day enough to visit Seaworld/Discovery Cove." SeaWorld and Discovery Cove are two separate parks. The entrance to Discovery Cove is on the right hand side of Central Florida Parkway, past the sign for SeaWorld Orlando. For more info, click here.
Rhino Rally at Busch Gardens, Tampa: 17 passengers ride a Land Rover that loses its way and ends up on a shaky pontoon bridge above raging waters. The ride includes a trip across the savanna where passengers will see rhinos, elephants, zebras, crocodiles, wart hogs, antelope, and wildebeests. (Source: go2orlando.com)
SeaWorld sells tickets at a discount to groups of 15 or more. For more information, call 800/327-2424.
Busch Gardens is now offering visitors to central Florida round- trip transportation to its park. Each of the five luxury coaches that make up The Shuttle Express will accommodate 47 passengers in air-conditioned comfort and include video entertainment. Five routes will shuttle customers from 40 different locations at a cost of only US$10 per person! The Shuttle Express picks up passengers at Mercado Shopping Village, Kissimmee Old Town Shopping Village, SeaWorld, Universal Studios, Lake Buena Vista Factory Outlet Mall; at 40 hotels in Central Florida; and at Flex Ticket transportation routes. Shuttles make morning pick-ups at 8 AM and 10:15 AM and return to locations in Orlando at 5, 6, and 8 PM. The service is free to those who buy the 5-Park Orlando Flex Ticket which grants unlimited admission to Busch Gardens, SeaWorld, Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Wet 'n Wild. Reservations are recommended. Reservations are required for groups of six or larger. For information, reservations, and schedules, call 800/511-2450.
Public Transportation Sharon writes: "I have really enjoyed reading the affordable disney information. I was wondering whether you can advise if there is affordable local transportation to Sea World and Universal Studios; we will be staying [at] the Best Western Lake Buena Vista Resort for our stay and I am hoping to save money wherever possible so that we may buy more souvenirs." Make sure you get to the store we recommend in our book for your souvenirs. We can't tell you how many good deals we have found there. Mears Motor Shuttles provides transportation to the theme parks. Call 407/423-5566. You can also take a taxi. (We list several hotels in our book that offer transportation to the parks for free or for a fee.) In regard to public transportation, LYNX buses serve Osceola, Orange, and Seminole counties from 5 AM to midnight/7 days a week. Routes include tourist attractions. Costs less than $1. Look for the LYNX Paw Sign to catch the bus. Call 407/841-8240 for more information. The I-RIDE TROLLEY SERVICE makes over 50 stops on International Drive from 7 AM to midnight/7days a week. The buses run every 15 minutes. Costs 75 cents. Seniors pay 25 cents. You can buy a one-day unlimited pass for $2 ($3 for a three-day pass and $5 for a five-day pass) at most of the hotels along International Drive. Look for the I-Ride Trolley signs. Call 407/354-5656 for more information. The MERCADO SHUTTLE provides free transportation 10 AM to 10 PM from the The Mercado shopping/dining/entertainment complex on International Drive to 15 hotels in the area. Call 407/345-9337 for more information.
Discovery Cove SeaWorld's new 30-acre park, Discovery Cove, allows visitors to interact with the marine life. Reservations are necessary because Discovery Island will only admit 1,000 guests per day to eliminate lines. Discovery Island has been created to look like a tropical island complete with white sandy beaches and thatched roofs. At check-in, guests are assigned a guide to take them on a tour of the park.
Attractions include snorkeling with tropical fish, swimming near barracuda
and sharks (in a separate glass tank), a tropical bird aviary, and a 30-minute
swim with dolphins.
To visit the Discovery Cove web site, click
here.
This new tour takes guests on a guided exploration of the park in 5 1/2 hours. Touring visitors can enter Journey to Atlantis and Wild Arctic through the back door and can enjoy reserved seating at popular shows. Cost is $55 + price of admission. The tour only accepts 16 guests. You must register for the tour before 10 AM at the tour counter located inside the entrance to the park.
The Gwazi, the newest roller coaster at Busch Gardens®, is actually two roller coasters that intertwine on tracks made of wood. The 2 1/2-minute ride features a drop of 90 feet and 7,000 feet of track. Traveling at 50 mph and carrying 48 passengers, the Gwazi is Anheuser-Busch's first wooden roller coaster. Gwazi is the African name for a legendary animal that is part tiger and part lion.
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