Monday, July 30, 2012

The Fifty States: Florida

This is third in a series of states, where I highlight my time spent in a state.  These are my own recommendations of restaurants and things to do, and I hope to share my perspective. I hope to visit all 50 states in my lifetime to see the sights and learn about each area.

Florida - The Disney World State


Be wary of hurricane season if travelling down south to Florida, especially close to the coast.  The weather is cool in the morning, hot during the day, and cool again at night.  Also, there are frequent, but short sunshowers.

Walt Disney World - Going here when you are three, thirteen, or forty-five are totally different experiences.  You will only remember the emotional times when you are three years old, but it will be a magical place.  Your parents are in control, but wonderful sights are reveal to you.  The 'It's a Small World' song will be ingrained in your mind for the rest of your life. Those dinosaurs from the Epcot ride will forever move and look so lifelike in your mind.  Things that scare you then will be remembered in similar situations of your adult life.  The characters and tiki birds seem so real, even in memory.

By the time you are a teenager, you finally can appreciate that you are here and really enjoy it.  It's time to go on the thrilling rides and understand the story behind each theme ride.  Disney characters you loved growing up are still here, along with new ones.  You now know that the characters are only fictional and ride props are just that - props.  As you age and return to this magical place, you become nostalgic about the Carousel of Progress in Tomorrowland.  It reminds you of your childhood or ancesters time.  It's a time to catch up on all of the rides and allow yourself to go on.  Classic rides are still there and spark excitement.

For adults, here is what I suggest:  All four parks are a must: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom, but lines can get long, so you'll need at least a day at each.  Don't do too much in one day and take the slow moving ride in the Epcot ball!

Magic Kingdom's Mountain Rides (Space, Splash and Big Thunder) are popular.  Also, try not to miss: Carousel of Progress, It's a Small World, Pirates of the Caribbean, the Tiki Room, the Dumbo ride (if you've never been when younger), Buzz Lightyear ride (if a Toy Story fan), the Hall of Presidents and get a picture with Cinderella's Castle.

In Hollywood Studios park, see the Beauty and the Beast show, ride the Tower of Terror and the Great Movie Ride.  Hit one of the waterparks, like Blizzard Beach on a warm day.  There are restaurants and shops at Pleasure Island.  Sadly, they have closed the clubs and comedy shows that used to be there.  Take the monorail to travel from park to park, or even to your hotel.  The disney resort hotels are relatively inexpensive and themed in a fun way.  If you don't have a rental car and stay at an outside hotel, make sure you have a shuttle bus service that can take you to and from your destination.

Universal Studios - If you are in the Disney World vicinity, Universal Studios is a nearby attraction.  They have the Harry Potter World among other motion picture themed rides and attractions.

The Florida Keys - I've heard my friends had a great time in the Keys.  It seems like a lot of sun, beaches, and good food.

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