Weekend in Universal

This past weekend Jamie and I ventured to Orlando for my first trip to Universal Studios and to visit my aunt, uncle and two younger cousins who are vacationing in Orlando for the week. The weather did not want to cooperate with us on Saturday but we wouldn't let a little rain ruin our fun! Saturday night we met my family at Universal's CityWalk, we had dinner together and then walked and shopped a bit.

Here is a picture of me and my two cousins-Ashley and Jessica at CityWalk

Later that night, Jamie and I went to Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville. It was a lot of fun and they had an awesome live band playing all night. One of the night's highlights was when the margarita volcano erupted!

In the morning the six of us headed over to Islands of Adventure. Ashley and Jessi had created a list of all the rides we should go on and we went on them all, at least once! One of the highlights was definitely the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Harry Potter and the forbidden journey. I have never read any of the Harry Potter books but Ashley loves them so visiting that part of the park was a must. I have to say Harry Potter and the forbidden journey may have been the best roller coaster I have been on. It is totally indoors and uses something called robocoaster technology-meaning that the cars are secured by a robotic arm allowing the seats to pivot above the track. While you are on the roller coaster you simultaneously watch a 3D movie and the car moves with all of the effects. It was really scary and surprising in some parts and you were always kept guessing as to what would come next. It really was great! The ride is only about a year old and makes me wonder if it is the future of roller coasters. It will be interesting to see if new roller coasters will be built with the same multi-sensory experiences.

One of our other favorite parts of the park was Seuss Landing-entirely dedicated to the wonderful Dr. Seuss! Here is a picture of the girls, me and Mr. Grinch

After 6 hours in the park everyone was beat and we headed back to Tampa. We had a great weekend with Aunt Ei, Uncle Ed, Ashley and Jessi and we can't wait until next year!!!!