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How do you make the most of the Disney Dining Plan in 2027?
Read all about the ins and outs of the Disney Dining Plan at Walt Disney World in Orlando!
This episode focuses on a destination that is an absolute must do for many amusement park enthusiasts: Universal Orlando Resort! From spectacular roller coasters to completely new worlds, this resort has in recent years become one of the most versatile vacation destinations in Florida.
Watch or listen to the new episode at Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube. On our website you can find all episodes of Florivida the travel podcast, blogs and additional inspiration about Universal Orlando Resort and how you can experience this wonderful destination for yourself!
Are you considering a trip to Orlando and want to know what makes Universal Orlando Resort so special, what there is to do and what the highlights are for Rick and Willem? Then listen to this episode!
Willem and Rick take you step by step through Universal Orlando Resort in this episode! They start at the beginning, of course, but the conversation quickly moves toward personal favorites. They also name many of their own memories and the developments that Universal Orlando Resort has gone through in recent years.
All the parks are covered in this podcast! In total, Universal Orlando Resort is called 3 theme parks and 1 water park:
Where Universal used to be known mostly for one park, it has now grown into a destination with multiple theme parks, a water park and a wide range of resorts. With the arrival of Universal Epic Universe, they have even taken another step for immersive worlds and a new take on the future of theme parks!
What comes out clearly in the episode is that Universal Orlando Resort no longer consists only of “separate” theme parks. It has now become a total destination where you can quietly spend more than a week!
You'll notice it when you arrive: the hotels are close to the parks, boats and buses run between the resorts and the parks, and through Universal CityWalk you'll walk from one experience to another in no time. During the day you sit in attractions and at night you eat in a restaurant or drink a cocktail overlooking the park. Thus, the power is mostly in that combination. You don't have to go anywhere outside of Universal Orlando Resort, everything you need on your vacation to Orlando can be found in one place.
Instead of simply listing all the attractions, Willem and Rick choose to discuss their personal favorites. And that yields a nice mix of nostalgia, memories and admiration for new technology.
Universal Studios Florida:
Universal Islands of Adventure:
Universal Epic Universe:
Universal Volcano Bay:
Hotels also get the attention they deserve. That, they say, is where there really is a big difference from many other destinations. The beauty of the Universal Orlando Resort is that there is really no “wrong” choice. Whether you're in a more economical hotel or a more luxurious resort, the basics are good everywhere.
For example, Loews Sapphire Falls Resort has been called one of the finest all-around options. Its location, atmosphere and boat connection to the parks make it a hotel that many travelers are pleased with. On the other side is the new Universal Helios Grand Hotel, which is directly adjacent to Universal Epic Universe. Especially the views and the ability to literally walk into the park through an exclusive entrance make this hotel unique within Universal Orlando Resort.
What also becomes clear in this episode is that food at the Universal Orlando Resort is much more than just a quick bite. At Universal Epic Universe, the level of restaurants has really gone up. For example, they discuss ‘Atlantic’ where you can dine quietly with a view of the park, something you don't easily expect at a theme park.
At the same time, more accessible spots also remain popular. Think ‘Today Café’ where you get a good sandwich in the morning before heading into the park, or ’Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food‘ on Universal CityWalk where freshly cooked food is served at your table. And perhaps more importantly, the moment of just sitting down, recharging and then moving on!
In this episode, Rick keeps his travel tip practical and up to date. He mainly focuses on when to book and how you as a traveler can make smart use of it with our brand new promotion!
There is currently An exclusive Florivida promotion where you will receive a $50 gift card with a booking to Universal Orlando Resort. You can use this on site at the resort, for example for food, drinks or merchandise. There is also an additional advantage to this promotion. Everyone who books during the action period has a chance to win Universal Express Passes! And that is perhaps even more valuable, according to him, because it can save you a lot of waiting time in the parks.
No matter when you go on vacation, you don't necessarily have to leave right away on short notice, as long as you book within the promotional period you will enjoy the benefits!
So the gist of his tip is pretty clear. Capitalize on promotions when they occur, often more advantageous than waiting until the very last minute. This can not only save you money, but also provide extras that really enhance your experience at the park.
In this episode, Willem dives back into his favorite part: snacks in the parks. And as you can expect from him, these are iconic snacks your mouth can water over!
What becomes especially clear is that snacks at Universal Orlando Resort are not just snacks, they really are part of the experience! The snacks and meals all fit perfectly within the themed area and make your day complete.
Read all about the ins and outs of the Disney Dining Plan at Walt Disney World in Orlando!
All about the Free Disney Dining Plan promotion for vacations to Walt Disney World in 2027.
Read all about the new 2027 Disney Dining Plan and take advantage of all the perks on your Walt Disney World vacation!
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