Mitchada04

Welcome to part 2 of my Florida adventure at...

Busch Gardens!

What a beautiful day it was

So let's leap into the action!

And begin the day with

Gwazi!
I know many people detest this ride, but I love it! Yes it's a bit rough, but for me it is still a thrilling enjoyable ride! For me it will be a shame if it goes.
]
The death of Gwazi is not yet confirmed but for Timbuktu it sure is.

Glad Scorpion isn't leaving though, it is a good fun ride.

Up on The SkyRide we saw a hippo,

Some flamingos

And a Cheetah hunting!

But before all of that, the Congo is calling with the mighty Kumba roar!


Kumba is one of the most highly rated B&M's out there and deservedly, but it doesn't have massive theming pieces which people seem to love at the moment. It is just perfectly styled as the above picture shows, whilst there is no direct theming it is a themed or well styled ride. It just works.

Montu is the opposite, it is heavily themed.

But also fits in. Another great example of how to do a roller coaster well.

This Hyena is tired of rides for now though, so we will take an animal break.








Hang on, that's not an animal! Guess it's ride time again!


Can you do this Oblivion? No. No you can't.


After a quick cool off from the heat it was time for Busch Gardens latest addition...


It is such a beautiful looking ride. The green and yellow combination is great!



It is a great family coaster! Has the punch of an Intamin launch, silky smooth, fast paced ride with some excellent pops of airtime and speedy changes in direction. Can't compare it to Maverik but this is certainly great fun!

And away they go!

It may not look it but it was Christmas time...

This sign says so!

This brings us to the end of our 2nd adventure! Next up is a world of Lego and gardens, so from me and the meerkats we will see you there!

Here it is, my blog on my trip to Florida! It will be split up into 5 entries, 1 on each of the parks: SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, LEGOLAND Florida, Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios.
Because it is always such a relaxed park and was the start and end to our holiday, first up is SeaWorld!

It's just a lovely place to walk into and as the holidays were approaching, everywhere was all Christmassy! What more could you want?
Of course, a B&M flyer with a water splash right in front of you as you turn the corner.

What's its name I hear you ask...

And up they go!
The ride is amazing, such force on the pretzel loop and a great flying experience with some decent interaction with the waterfall entrance feature. Definitely stands proud on SeaWorld's skyline! What also makes this ride great is that if you hate rides, there is a lovely aquarium next door which shares the tank you walk past in the ride queue and has some of its own species such as an octopus.


Moving on we find ourselves at yet more stingrays, so we must be at Stingray Lagoon!

This pool allows you to stroke (if that's what you'd call it) stingrays! They do like to splash around though which is always good fun!
On our way to Trek with some Turtles, these fellas swam by.

Blue Horizons (dolphin show) is a great mix of music, colour and dolphins.


Woah dude!

Look a turtle!

2 turtles!
Turtle Trek is a lovely new attraction. Whilst I wasn't a massive fan of having to queue to see the underwater viewing, 5 minutes isn't bad and the 3D 360 degree movie was a great story! And the music in that area is so calming and relaxing.
Time for some sunbathing.

Who doesn't love alligators?

Journey To Atlantis was next and I have to say, this is the ride that needs refurbing next! The dark ride bit is seriously outdated in its effects, makes little sense and is wasted potential. It just shows how old it is especially with the dark rides being made by Uni. Other than that, a good fun water ride with a coastery final drop.

The Kraken awaited us!

Fortunately it was wide awake so we didn't have to disturb it.

Poor Kraken never gets any sleep with these sea lions and gulls around!

Pirate Island! Clyde and Seamore save the day in what has to be my favourite show at SeaWorld. The humour is great and the audience interaction is amazing. A tip for everyone, get to this show 20 minutes early, it is so worth being there that early!

Next up we travelled to a different place entirely, Antarctica!

Where they also celebrate Christmas.


This icy world transports you to the freezing cold penguin environment.



The enclosure is superb! The ride good fun (mild is very mild wild is basically mild) but nonetheless a decent ride and a big improvement on the old penguin area.

Continuing on we ascended this 300ft SkyTower.

Previously you've had to pay for this but now it is free for everyone and offers some great views of the park and surrounding area. You can clearly see the Epcot ball, Tower of Terror, Space Mountain and Doctor Dooms Freefall.




Jaws I mean Shark Encounter followed and hopefully this will be the next enclosure to get a refurb once the Shamu one is complete.



We then had a go on the flamingo boats.

Saw some actual flamingos and went on the quest for Shamu!

As Shamu's area was being improved I hereby name this squirrel who was on the construction fence Shamu (We could have watched the show but always missed it and weren't overly fussed.

The Polar Express will help us move along swiftly...
To the end of our Sea World adventure, but don't fear, the adventure will continue at Busch Gardens very soon!

Welcome to part 2 of my Florida adventure at...

Busch Gardens!

What a beautiful day it was

So let's leap into the action!

And begin the day with

Gwazi!
I know many people detest this ride, but I love it! Yes it's a bit rough, but for me it is still a thrilling enjoyable ride! For me it will be a shame if it goes.
]
The death of Gwazi is not yet confirmed but for Timbuktu it sure is.

Glad Scorpion isn't leaving though, it is a good fun ride.

Up on The SkyRide we saw a hippo,

Some flamingos

And a Cheetah hunting!

But before all of that, the Congo is calling with the mighty Kumba roar!


Kumba is one of the most highly rated B&M's out there and deservedly, but it doesn't have massive theming pieces which people seem to love at the moment. It is just perfectly styled as the above picture shows, whilst there is no direct theming it is a themed or well styled ride. It just works.

Montu is the opposite, it is heavily themed.

But also fits in. Another great example of how to do a roller coaster well.

This Hyena is tired of rides for now though, so we will take an animal break.








Hang on, that's not an animal! Guess it's ride time again!


Can you do this Oblivion? No. No you can't.


After a quick cool off from the heat it was time for Busch Gardens latest addition...


It is such a beautiful looking ride. The green and yellow combination is great!



It is a great family coaster! Has the punch of an Intamin launch, silky smooth, fast paced ride with some excellent pops of airtime and speedy changes in direction. Can't compare it to Maverik but this is certainly great fun!

And away they go!

It may not look it but it was Christmas time...

This sign says so!

This brings us to the end of our 2nd adventure! Next up is a world of Lego and gardens, so from me and the meerkats we will see you there!

In this final instalment of my Florida adventure we look at 3 parks in the dark, SeaWorld, Universal Studios and Island's of Adventure.

So let's begin!

With SeaWorld's beautiful tree!

Because it's Christmas!

So even the lake was full of trees!

There was an ice rink

Red SkyTower

A Christmas train set

Decorations

Mythical beasts

Penguins

Another tree

And fountains!
So SeaWorld is beautiful at night especially with Kraken and Manta!

And welcome to Universal Studios!

Where the minions were lit up!

A concert under Rockit

Lit up Optimus

Their Christmas tree

Water screens

With minions, lasers and fireworks!

Bye bye Studios

Here we come Islands!

Where the Discovery Centre lit up the lake

Suess was bright as ever

With one fish

And a cat

Down in Hogsmeade Dragons were challenging

And the lake was glowing!

One of the best area entrances got better!

With night time adventures

And the Discovery Centre up close

A Lagoon of Toon!

Home to Dudley

Popeye

And partying dogs

But watch out

(terrible image) Doctor Doom is about!

But so is Spidey! We're safe again

Watch out

It's not going to work

The Hulk.
And that concludes my Florida adventure. I hope you've enjoyed reading all my entries

In this final instalment of my Florida adventure we look at 3 parks in the dark, SeaWorld, Universal Studios and Island's of Adventure.

So let's begin!

With SeaWorld's beautiful tree!

Because it's Christmas!

So even the lake was full of trees!

There was an ice rink

Red SkyTower

A Christmas train set

Decorations

Mythical beasts

Penguins

Another tree

And fountains!
So SeaWorld is beautiful at night especially with Kraken and Manta!

And welcome to Universal Studios!

Where the minions were lit up!

A concert under Rockit

Lit up Optimus

Their Christmas tree

Water screens

With minions, lasers and fireworks!

Bye bye Studios

Here we come Islands!

Where the Discovery Centre lit up the lake

Suess was bright as ever

With one fish

And a cat

Down in Hogsmeade Dragons were challenging

And the lake was glowing!

One of the best area entrances got better!

With night time adventures

And the Discovery Centre up close

A Lagoon of Toon!

Home to Dudley

Popeye

And partying dogs

But watch out

(terrible image) Doctor Doom is about!

But so is Spidey! We're safe again

Watch out

It's not going to work

The Hulk.
And that concludes my Florida adventure. I hope you've enjoyed reading all my entries

In this final instalment of my Florida adventure we look at 3 parks in the dark, SeaWorld, Universal Studios and Island's of Adventure.

So let's begin!

With SeaWorld's beautiful tree!

Because it's Christmas!

So even the lake was full of trees!

There was an ice rink

Red SkyTower

A Christmas train set

Decorations

Mythical beasts

Penguins

Another tree

And fountains!
So SeaWorld is beautiful at night especially with Kraken and Manta!

And welcome to Universal Studios!

Where the minions were lit up!

A concert under Rockit

Lit up Optimus

Their Christmas tree

Water screens

With minions, lasers and fireworks!

Bye bye Studios

Here we come Islands!

Where the Discovery Centre lit up the lake

Suess was bright as ever

With one fish

And a cat

Down in Hogsmeade Dragons were challenging

And the lake was glowing!

One of the best area entrances got better!

With night time adventures

And the Discovery Centre up close

A Lagoon of Toon!

Home to Dudley

Popeye

And partying dogs

But watch out

(terrible image) Doctor Doom is about!

But so is Spidey! We're safe again

Watch out

It's not going to work

The Hulk.
And that concludes my Florida adventure. I hope you've enjoyed reading all my entries

Our penultimate instalment takes us to what has become my favourite theme park...

Welcome to Universal Studios Florida!


What will this chapter of our adventure have in store I wonder?

The Cat in the Hat shall enlighten us!

Let's start back...

To the Future

Now home to Jebediah

Lard Lad

And Clumsy Wigum!

Watch out for Kang and Kudos though! They'll put you in a spin

And make you a bit Tipsy

Or Sirly.

DuffMan doesn't care though

As long as you buy Duff!

And then treat yourself to a Krusty Burger thanks too

Krusty himself!

Moving on we have

Men In Black!

Which really isn't a disaster (even though some peoples scores were!)

Something tells me the Amity retheme has gone a bit overboard...

Christmas Tree was Rocking out over the Christmas period!

Really it's a massive grey shed.

Hiding a red train.

Time for a musical interlude

Not enough?

Have some Blues Brothers as well!

Warning Civilians, your help is needed!

E7 Error!

E7!!

Optimus Prime needs your help (or just wants whatever he is pointing at, probably a dink)

We were called away from the music to try and stop a doll?

This I can understand, but really, a doll?!

Of course not, this was the Horror Makeup Show!

What's this?

Hop?

Ohhh, the film about a bunny!

Garfield didn't want candy so instead

This was actually due to Macy's parade. The All Star Parade didn't happen while we were there so every half hour one of the 4 floats/routines would come out and do a performance followed by a meet and greet. The 4 acts were Hop, Despicable Me, Dora, and SpongeBob! On our first day it was a huge surprise but a great one at that!

Shrek 4D

And to conclude let's talk about in my opinion an overly underrated ride (or highly criticised for flaws that have been resolved/improved)

Hollywood

Rip

Ride

Rockit!


This element is great, really pushes you out of your seat and a great high speed change in direction!
It's a fun ride which has massively improved since I rode it in 2009!
Opinions are free and everyone is entitled to their own but these are mine.

And this Twister of events brings us to the end.
A little write up on two things before I finish.
Transformers: Using the same technology as Spiderman this is a brilliant dark ride and is much more screen based than Spidey (that's why I prefer Spiderman over it) but it certainly feels much more involved at times with the riders being a key role to the story.
Despicable Me: The ride basis is exactly the same as Jimmy Neutron but just a much more complete experience with more pre shows and guest interaction. And MINIONS! Enough said.
So thanks again for reading and we hope to see you one more time!

Our penultimate instalment takes us to what has become my favourite theme park...

Welcome to Universal Studios Florida!


What will this chapter of our adventure have in store I wonder?

The Cat in the Hat shall enlighten us!

Let's start back...

To the Future

Now home to Jebediah

Lard Lad

And Clumsy Wigum!

Watch out for Kang and Kudos though! They'll put you in a spin

And make you a bit Tipsy

Or Sirly.

DuffMan doesn't care though

As long as you buy Duff!

And then treat yourself to a Krusty Burger thanks too

Krusty himself!

Moving on we have

Men In Black!

Which really isn't a disaster (even though some peoples scores were!)

Something tells me the Amity retheme has gone a bit overboard...

Christmas Tree was Rocking out over the Christmas period!

Really it's a massive grey shed.

Hiding a red train.

Time for a musical interlude

Not enough?

Have some Blues Brothers as well!

Warning Civilians, your help is needed!

E7 Error!

E7!!

Optimus Prime needs your help (or just wants whatever he is pointing at, probably a dink)

We were called away from the music to try and stop a doll?

This I can understand, but really, a doll?!

Of course not, this was the Horror Makeup Show!

What's this?

Hop?

Ohhh, the film about a bunny!

Garfield didn't want candy so instead

This was actually due to Macy's parade. The All Star Parade didn't happen while we were there so every half hour one of the 4 floats/routines would come out and do a performance followed by a meet and greet. The 4 acts were Hop, Despicable Me, Dora, and SpongeBob! On our first day it was a huge surprise but a great one at that!

Shrek 4D

And to conclude let's talk about in my opinion an overly underrated ride (or highly criticised for flaws that have been resolved/improved)

Hollywood

Rip

Ride

Rockit!


This element is great, really pushes you out of your seat and a great high speed change in direction!
It's a fun ride which has massively improved since I rode it in 2009!
Opinions are free and everyone is entitled to their own but these are mine.

And this Twister of events brings us to the end.
A little write up on two things before I finish.
Transformers: Using the same technology as Spiderman this is a brilliant dark ride and is much more screen based than Spidey (that's why I prefer Spiderman over it) but it certainly feels much more involved at times with the riders being a key role to the story.
Despicable Me: The ride basis is exactly the same as Jimmy Neutron but just a much more complete experience with more pre shows and guest interaction. And MINIONS! Enough said.
So thanks again for reading and we hope to see you one more time!

Our penultimate instalment takes us to what has become my favourite theme park...

Welcome to Universal Studios Florida!


What will this chapter of our adventure have in store I wonder?

The Cat in the Hat shall enlighten us!

Let's start back...

To the Future

Now home to Jebediah

Lard Lad

And Clumsy Wigum!

Watch out for Kang and Kudos though! They'll put you in a spin

And make you a bit Tipsy

Or Sirly.

DuffMan doesn't care though

As long as you buy Duff!

And then treat yourself to a Krusty Burger thanks too

Krusty himself!

Moving on we have

Men In Black!

Which really isn't a disaster (even though some peoples scores were!)

Something tells me the Amity retheme has gone a bit overboard...

Christmas Tree was Rocking out over the Christmas period!

Really it's a massive grey shed.

Hiding a red train.

Time for a musical interlude

Not enough?

Have some Blues Brothers as well!

Warning Civilians, your help is needed!

E7 Error!

E7!!

Optimus Prime needs your help (or just wants whatever he is pointing at, probably a dink)

We were called away from the music to try and stop a doll?

This I can understand, but really, a doll?!

Of course not, this was the Horror Makeup Show!

What's this?

Hop?

Ohhh, the film about a bunny!

Garfield didn't want candy so instead

This was actually due to Macy's parade. The All Star Parade didn't happen while we were there so every half hour one of the 4 floats/routines would come out and do a performance followed by a meet and greet. The 4 acts were Hop, Despicable Me, Dora, and SpongeBob! On our first day it was a huge surprise but a great one at that!

Shrek 4D

And to conclude let's talk about in my opinion an overly underrated ride (or highly criticised for flaws that have been resolved/improved)

Hollywood

Rip

Ride

Rockit!


This element is great, really pushes you out of your seat and a great high speed change in direction!
It's a fun ride which has massively improved since I rode it in 2009!
Opinions are free and everyone is entitled to their own but these are mine.

And this Twister of events brings us to the end.
A little write up on two things before I finish.
Transformers: Using the same technology as Spiderman this is a brilliant dark ride and is much more screen based than Spidey (that's why I prefer Spiderman over it) but it certainly feels much more involved at times with the riders being a key role to the story.
Despicable Me: The ride basis is exactly the same as Jimmy Neutron but just a much more complete experience with more pre shows and guest interaction. And MINIONS! Enough said.
So thanks again for reading and we hope to see you one more time!

This latest instalment even has adventure in the name, welcome to Islands of Adventure!
Let's take it one island at a time!

And let us start in the wacky world of Suess!

Which home to one fish, no two fish, are they red fish or blue fish though?

And an exceedingly unique carousel!
Moving on from Suess we enter the Lost Continent! Which now feels even more lost.




Sinbad, a decent show when you ignore the construction going on behind it.

Now time to enter the place many will be wanting to see...

The Wizardring World of Harry Potter!




This actually moves!

And the first challenge, Dragon Challenge!



Champions you are ready for battle good luck!


Hagrid's hut!

With a Hippogriff!

And the masterpiece of the whole area

Forbidden Journey!

Yes it is a massive shed behind but up front it is sure impressive!


Bye bye Hogsmeade

And hello Jurassic Park!

Home to

DINOSAURS

Of course


And this beautiful view!


Wonder what happens here?

This happens!

Moving on

Toon Lagoon!


Best water ride I have been on.


And last but not least, Marvel SuperHero Island!


And The Hulk!!!




A view from Port of Entry

And the car park concludes this chapter! Don't worry, more photos of Islands will be appearing in the night time photo edition! But until then, thanks for reading and join us again at Universal Studios!

This latest instalment even has adventure in the name, welcome to Islands of Adventure!
Let's take it one island at a time!

And let us start in the wacky world of Suess!

Which home to one fish, no two fish, are they red fish or blue fish though?

And an exceedingly unique carousel!
Moving on from Suess we enter the Lost Continent! Which now feels even more lost.




Sinbad, a decent show when you ignore the construction going on behind it.

Now time to enter the place many will be wanting to see...

The Wizardring World of Harry Potter!




This actually moves!

And the first challenge, Dragon Challenge!



Champions you are ready for battle good luck!


Hagrid's hut!

With a Hippogriff!

And the masterpiece of the whole area

Forbidden Journey!

Yes it is a massive shed behind but up front it is sure impressive!


Bye bye Hogsmeade

And hello Jurassic Park!

Home to

DINOSAURS

Of course


And this beautiful view!


Wonder what happens here?

This happens!

Moving on

Toon Lagoon!


Best water ride I have been on.


And last but not least, Marvel SuperHero Island!


And The Hulk!!!




A view from Port of Entry

And the car park concludes this chapter! Don't worry, more photos of Islands will be appearing in the night time photo edition! But until then, thanks for reading and join us again at Universal Studios!

This latest instalment even has adventure in the name, welcome to Islands of Adventure!
Let's take it one island at a time!

And let us start in the wacky world of Suess!

Which home to one fish, no two fish, are they red fish or blue fish though?

And an exceedingly unique carousel!
Moving on from Suess we enter the Lost Continent! Which now feels even more lost.




Sinbad, a decent show when you ignore the construction going on behind it.

Now time to enter the place many will be wanting to see...

The Wizardring World of Harry Potter!




This actually moves!

And the first challenge, Dragon Challenge!



Champions you are ready for battle good luck!


Hagrid's hut!

With a Hippogriff!

And the masterpiece of the whole area

Forbidden Journey!

Yes it is a massive shed behind but up front it is sure impressive!


Bye bye Hogsmeade

And hello Jurassic Park!

Home to

DINOSAURS

Of course


And this beautiful view!


Wonder what happens here?

This happens!

Moving on

Toon Lagoon!


Best water ride I have been on.


And last but not least, Marvel SuperHero Island!


And The Hulk!!!




A view from Port of Entry

And the car park concludes this chapter! Don't worry, more photos of Islands will be appearing in the night time photo edition! But until then, thanks for reading and join us again at Universal Studios!

Today we venture to the bright world of Lego, now in Florida!

The entrance area is lovely and open and fresh, much better than Windsor's.

Must be a thing to have dinosaurs at the entrance to LEGOLAND's.

And some Lego tourists.

Once again it was apparently Christmas time, still didn't feel like it.

We begin the journey in their newest land, World of Chima!




It's a heavily themed splash battle which I'm sure to any viewers of Chima would make loads of sense! But even to someone who hasn't ever seen Chima, the story was clear and effects very good. The only thing it lacked was interaction with the effects because all day you would be the only one on the ride so didn't have anyone to "battle."

Knight's Kingdom was up next

Home to the Dragon


And one of the jousting rides, which we were too tall for.

Land of Adventure!

The whole Egyptian theme works much better in the Florida sun

And Dinosaurs!

As a wooden coaster!


Lego City with this very impressive Lego Ford!

And Flying School

An awful Vekoma.

So moving on swiftly


Jungle Coaster!

I mean Project X!

Pirate Ski Show!

And now to relive a bit of history.



I know they have to keep this by the State Law I think but I'm still very impressed with the upkeep they have put into these gardens.

Not even the crazy rabbit is allowed in!

Time for a look at Miniland.







Trust Merlin.


I really liked LEGOLAND Florida and I really hope it is a success. It has got everything apart from a log flume which surprises me, but it is still a beautiful tranquil park like it was when it was Cypress Gardens. Time for another break before we head over to Islands of Adventure. So sit back and have some lunch until next time.

Today we venture to the bright world of Lego, now in Florida!

The entrance area is lovely and open and fresh, much better than Windsor's.

Must be a thing to have dinosaurs at the entrance to LEGOLAND's.

And some Lego tourists.

Once again it was apparently Christmas time, still didn't feel like it.

We begin the journey in their newest land, World of Chima!




It's a heavily themed splash battle which I'm sure to any viewers of Chima would make loads of sense! But even to someone who hasn't ever seen Chima, the story was clear and effects very good. The only thing it lacked was interaction with the effects because all day you would be the only one on the ride so didn't have anyone to "battle."

Knight's Kingdom was up next

Home to the Dragon


And one of the jousting rides, which we were too tall for.

Land of Adventure!

The whole Egyptian theme works much better in the Florida sun

And Dinosaurs!

As a wooden coaster!


Lego City with this very impressive Lego Ford!

And Flying School

An awful Vekoma.

So moving on swiftly


Jungle Coaster!

I mean Project X!

Pirate Ski Show!

And now to relive a bit of history.



I know they have to keep this by the State Law I think but I'm still very impressed with the upkeep they have put into these gardens.

Not even the crazy rabbit is allowed in!

Time for a look at Miniland.







Trust Merlin.


I really liked LEGOLAND Florida and I really hope it is a success. It has got everything apart from a log flume which surprises me, but it is still a beautiful tranquil park like it was when it was Cypress Gardens. Time for another break before we head over to Islands of Adventure. So sit back and have some lunch until next time.

Today we venture to the bright world of Lego, now in Florida!

The entrance area is lovely and open and fresh, much better than Windsor's.

Must be a thing to have dinosaurs at the entrance to LEGOLAND's.

And some Lego tourists.

Once again it was apparently Christmas time, still didn't feel like it.

We begin the journey in their newest land, World of Chima!




It's a heavily themed splash battle which I'm sure to any viewers of Chima would make loads of sense! But even to someone who hasn't ever seen Chima, the story was clear and effects very good. The only thing it lacked was interaction with the effects because all day you would be the only one on the ride so didn't have anyone to "battle."

Knight's Kingdom was up next

Home to the Dragon


And one of the jousting rides, which we were too tall for.

Land of Adventure!

The whole Egyptian theme works much better in the Florida sun

And Dinosaurs!

As a wooden coaster!


Lego City with this very impressive Lego Ford!

And Flying School

An awful Vekoma.

So moving on swiftly


Jungle Coaster!

I mean Project X!

Pirate Ski Show!

And now to relive a bit of history.



I know they have to keep this by the State Law I think but I'm still very impressed with the upkeep they have put into these gardens.

Not even the crazy rabbit is allowed in!

Time for a look at Miniland.







Trust Merlin.


I really liked LEGOLAND Florida and I really hope it is a success. It has got everything apart from a log flume which surprises me, but it is still a beautiful tranquil park like it was when it was Cypress Gardens. Time for another break before we head over to Islands of Adventure. So sit back and have some lunch until next time.

Today we venture to the bright world of Lego, now in Florida!

The entrance area is lovely and open and fresh, much better than Windsor's.

Must be a thing to have dinosaurs at the entrance to LEGOLAND's.

And some Lego tourists.

Once again it was apparently Christmas time, still didn't feel like it.

We begin the journey in their newest land, World of Chima!




It's a heavily themed splash battle which I'm sure to any viewers of Chima would make loads of sense! But even to someone who hasn't ever seen Chima, the story was clear and effects very good. The only thing it lacked was interaction with the effects because all day you would be the only one on the ride so didn't have anyone to "battle."

Knight's Kingdom was up next

Home to the Dragon


And one of the jousting rides, which we were too tall for.

Land of Adventure!

The whole Egyptian theme works much better in the Florida sun

And Dinosaurs!

As a wooden coaster!


Lego City with this very impressive Lego Ford!

And Flying School

An awful Vekoma.

So moving on swiftly


Jungle Coaster!

I mean Project X!

Pirate Ski Show!

And now to relive a bit of history.



I know they have to keep this by the State Law I think but I'm still very impressed with the upkeep they have put into these gardens.

Not even the crazy rabbit is allowed in!

Time for a look at Miniland.







Trust Merlin.


I really liked LEGOLAND Florida and I really hope it is a success. It has got everything apart from a log flume which surprises me, but it is still a beautiful tranquil park like it was when it was Cypress Gardens. Time for another break before we head over to Islands of Adventure. So sit back and have some lunch until next time.

Today we venture to the bright world of Lego, now in Florida!

The entrance area is lovely and open and fresh, much better than Windsor's.

Must be a thing to have dinosaurs at the entrance to LEGOLAND's.

And some Lego tourists.

Once again it was apparently Christmas time, still didn't feel like it.

We begin the journey in their newest land, World of Chima!




It's a heavily themed splash battle which I'm sure to any viewers of Chima would make loads of sense! But even to someone who hasn't ever seen Chima, the story was clear and effects very good. The only thing it lacked was interaction with the effects because all day you would be the only one on the ride so didn't have anyone to "battle."

Knight's Kingdom was up next

Home to the Dragon


And one of the jousting rides, which we were too tall for.

Land of Adventure!

The whole Egyptian theme works much better in the Florida sun

And Dinosaurs!

As a wooden coaster!


Lego City with this very impressive Lego Ford!

And Flying School

An awful Vekoma.

So moving on swiftly


Jungle Coaster!

I mean Project X!

Pirate Ski Show!

And now to relive a bit of history.



I know they have to keep this by the State Law I think but I'm still very impressed with the upkeep they have put into these gardens.

Not even the crazy rabbit is allowed in!

Time for a look at Miniland.







Trust Merlin.


I really liked LEGOLAND Florida and I really hope it is a success. It has got everything apart from a log flume which surprises me, but it is still a beautiful tranquil park like it was when it was Cypress Gardens. Time for another break before we head over to Islands of Adventure. So sit back and have some lunch until next time.

Welcome to part 2 of my Florida adventure at...

Busch Gardens!

What a beautiful day it was

So let's leap into the action!

And begin the day with

Gwazi!
I know many people detest this ride, but I love it! Yes it's a bit rough, but for me it is still a thrilling enjoyable ride! For me it will be a shame if it goes.
]
The death of Gwazi is not yet confirmed but for Timbuktu it sure is.

Glad Scorpion isn't leaving though, it is a good fun ride.

Up on The SkyRide we saw a hippo,

Some flamingos

And a Cheetah hunting!

But before all of that, the Congo is calling with the mighty Kumba roar!


Kumba is one of the most highly rated B&M's out there and deservedly, but it doesn't have massive theming pieces which people seem to love at the moment. It is just perfectly styled as the above picture shows, whilst there is no direct theming it is a themed or well styled ride. It just works.

Montu is the opposite, it is heavily themed.

But also fits in. Another great example of how to do a roller coaster well.

This Hyena is tired of rides for now though, so we will take an animal break.








Hang on, that's not an animal! Guess it's ride time again!


Can you do this Oblivion? No. No you can't.


After a quick cool off from the heat it was time for Busch Gardens latest addition...


It is such a beautiful looking ride. The green and yellow combination is great!



It is a great family coaster! Has the punch of an Intamin launch, silky smooth, fast paced ride with some excellent pops of airtime and speedy changes in direction. Can't compare it to Maverik but this is certainly great fun!

And away they go!

It may not look it but it was Christmas time...

This sign says so!

This brings us to the end of our 2nd adventure! Next up is a world of Lego and gardens, so from me and the meerkats we will see you there!

Welcome to part 2 of my Florida adventure at...

Busch Gardens!

What a beautiful day it was

So let's leap into the action!

And begin the day with

Gwazi!
I know many people detest this ride, but I love it! Yes it's a bit rough, but for me it is still a thrilling enjoyable ride! For me it will be a shame if it goes.
]
The death of Gwazi is not yet confirmed but for Timbuktu it sure is.

Glad Scorpion isn't leaving though, it is a good fun ride.

Up on The SkyRide we saw a hippo,

Some flamingos

And a Cheetah hunting!

But before all of that, the Congo is calling with the mighty Kumba roar!


Kumba is one of the most highly rated B&M's out there and deservedly, but it doesn't have massive theming pieces which people seem to love at the moment. It is just perfectly styled as the above picture shows, whilst there is no direct theming it is a themed or well styled ride. It just works.

Montu is the opposite, it is heavily themed.

But also fits in. Another great example of how to do a roller coaster well.

This Hyena is tired of rides for now though, so we will take an animal break.








Hang on, that's not an animal! Guess it's ride time again!


Can you do this Oblivion? No. No you can't.


After a quick cool off from the heat it was time for Busch Gardens latest addition...


It is such a beautiful looking ride. The green and yellow combination is great!



It is a great family coaster! Has the punch of an Intamin launch, silky smooth, fast paced ride with some excellent pops of airtime and speedy changes in direction. Can't compare it to Maverik but this is certainly great fun!

And away they go!

It may not look it but it was Christmas time...

This sign says so!

This brings us to the end of our 2nd adventure! Next up is a world of Lego and gardens, so from me and the meerkats we will see you there!

Welcome to part 2 of my Florida adventure at...

Busch Gardens!

What a beautiful day it was

So let's leap into the action!

And begin the day with

Gwazi!
I know many people detest this ride, but I love it! Yes it's a bit rough, but for me it is still a thrilling enjoyable ride! For me it will be a shame if it goes.
]
The death of Gwazi is not yet confirmed but for Timbuktu it sure is.

Glad Scorpion isn't leaving though, it is a good fun ride.

Up on The SkyRide we saw a hippo,

Some flamingos

And a Cheetah hunting!

But before all of that, the Congo is calling with the mighty Kumba roar!


Kumba is one of the most highly rated B&M's out there and deservedly, but it doesn't have massive theming pieces which people seem to love at the moment. It is just perfectly styled as the above picture shows, whilst there is no direct theming it is a themed or well styled ride. It just works.

Montu is the opposite, it is heavily themed.

But also fits in. Another great example of how to do a roller coaster well.

This Hyena is tired of rides for now though, so we will take an animal break.








Hang on, that's not an animal! Guess it's ride time again!


Can you do this Oblivion? No. No you can't.


After a quick cool off from the heat it was time for Busch Gardens latest addition...


It is such a beautiful looking ride. The green and yellow combination is great!



It is a great family coaster! Has the punch of an Intamin launch, silky smooth, fast paced ride with some excellent pops of airtime and speedy changes in direction. Can't compare it to Maverik but this is certainly great fun!

And away they go!

It may not look it but it was Christmas time...

This sign says so!

This brings us to the end of our 2nd adventure! Next up is a world of Lego and gardens, so from me and the meerkats we will see you there!

Welcome to part 2 of my Florida adventure at...

Busch Gardens!

What a beautiful day it was

So let's leap into the action!

And begin the day with

Gwazi!
I know many people detest this ride, but I love it! Yes it's a bit rough, but for me it is still a thrilling enjoyable ride! For me it will be a shame if it goes.
]
The death of Gwazi is not yet confirmed but for Timbuktu it sure is.

Glad Scorpion isn't leaving though, it is a good fun ride.

Up on The SkyRide we saw a hippo,

Some flamingos

And a Cheetah hunting!

But before all of that, the Congo is calling with the mighty Kumba roar!


Kumba is one of the most highly rated B&M's out there and deservedly, but it doesn't have massive theming pieces which people seem to love at the moment. It is just perfectly styled as the above picture shows, whilst there is no direct theming it is a themed or well styled ride. It just works.

Montu is the opposite, it is heavily themed.

But also fits in. Another great example of how to do a roller coaster well.

This Hyena is tired of rides for now though, so we will take an animal break.








Hang on, that's not an animal! Guess it's ride time again!


Can you do this Oblivion? No. No you can't.


After a quick cool off from the heat it was time for Busch Gardens latest addition...


It is such a beautiful looking ride. The green and yellow combination is great!



It is a great family coaster! Has the punch of an Intamin launch, silky smooth, fast paced ride with some excellent pops of airtime and speedy changes in direction. Can't compare it to Maverik but this is certainly great fun!

And away they go!

It may not look it but it was Christmas time...

This sign says so!

This brings us to the end of our 2nd adventure! Next up is a world of Lego and gardens, so from me and the meerkats we will see you there!

Welcome to part 2 of my Florida adventure at...

Busch Gardens!

What a beautiful day it was

So let's leap into the action!

And begin the day with

Gwazi!
I know many people detest this ride, but I love it! Yes it's a bit rough, but for me it is still a thrilling enjoyable ride! For me it will be a shame if it goes.
]
The death of Gwazi is not yet confirmed but for Timbuktu it sure is.

Glad Scorpion isn't leaving though, it is a good fun ride.

Up on The SkyRide we saw a hippo,

Some flamingos

And a Cheetah hunting!

But before all of that, the Congo is calling with the mighty Kumba roar!


Kumba is one of the most highly rated B&M's out there and deservedly, but it doesn't have massive theming pieces which people seem to love at the moment. It is just perfectly styled as the above picture shows, whilst there is no direct theming it is a themed or well styled ride. It just works.

Montu is the opposite, it is heavily themed.

But also fits in. Another great example of how to do a roller coaster well.

This Hyena is tired of rides for now though, so we will take an animal break.








Hang on, that's not an animal! Guess it's ride time again!


Can you do this Oblivion? No. No you can't.


After a quick cool off from the heat it was time for Busch Gardens latest addition...


It is such a beautiful looking ride. The green and yellow combination is great!



It is a great family coaster! Has the punch of an Intamin launch, silky smooth, fast paced ride with some excellent pops of airtime and speedy changes in direction. Can't compare it to Maverik but this is certainly great fun!

And away they go!

It may not look it but it was Christmas time...

This sign says so!

This brings us to the end of our 2nd adventure! Next up is a world of Lego and gardens, so from me and the meerkats we will see you there!

Here it is, my blog on my trip to Florida! It will be split up into 5 entries, 1 on each of the parks: SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, LEGOLAND Florida, Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios.
Because it is always such a relaxed park and was the start and end to our holiday, first up is SeaWorld!

It's just a lovely place to walk into and as the holidays were approaching, everywhere was all Christmassy! What more could you want?
Of course, a B&M flyer with a water splash right in front of you as you turn the corner.

What's its name I hear you ask...

And up they go!
The ride is amazing, such force on the pretzel loop and a great flying experience with some decent interaction with the waterfall entrance feature. Definitely stands proud on SeaWorld's skyline! What also makes this ride great is that if you hate rides, there is a lovely aquarium next door which shares the tank you walk past in the ride queue and has some of its own species such as an octopus.


Moving on we find ourselves at yet more stingrays, so we must be at Stingray Lagoon!

This pool allows you to stroke (if that's what you'd call it) stingrays! They do like to splash around though which is always good fun!
On our way to Trek with some Turtles, these fellas swam by.

Blue Horizons (dolphin show) is a great mix of music, colour and dolphins.


Woah dude!

Look a turtle!

2 turtles!
Turtle Trek is a lovely new attraction. Whilst I wasn't a massive fan of having to queue to see the underwater viewing, 5 minutes isn't bad and the 3D 360 degree movie was a great story! And the music in that area is so calming and relaxing.
Time for some sunbathing.

Who doesn't love alligators?

Journey To Atlantis was next and I have to say, this is the ride that needs refurbing next! The dark ride bit is seriously outdated in its effects, makes little sense and is wasted potential. It just shows how old it is especially with the dark rides being made by Uni. Other than that, a good fun water ride with a coastery final drop.

The Kraken awaited us!

Fortunately it was wide awake so we didn't have to disturb it.

Poor Kraken never gets any sleep with these sea lions and gulls around!

Pirate Island! Clyde and Seamore save the day in what has to be my favourite show at SeaWorld. The humour is great and the audience interaction is amazing. A tip for everyone, get to this show 20 minutes early, it is so worth being there that early!

Next up we travelled to a different place entirely, Antarctica!

Where they also celebrate Christmas.


This icy world transports you to the freezing cold penguin environment.



The enclosure is superb! The ride good fun (mild is very mild wild is basically mild) but nonetheless a decent ride and a big improvement on the old penguin area.

Continuing on we ascended this 300ft SkyTower.

Previously you've had to pay for this but now it is free for everyone and offers some great views of the park and surrounding area. You can clearly see the Epcot ball, Tower of Terror, Space Mountain and Doctor Dooms Freefall.




Jaws I mean Shark Encounter followed and hopefully this will be the next enclosure to get a refurb once the Shamu one is complete.



We then had a go on the flamingo boats.

Saw some actual flamingos and went on the quest for Shamu!

As Shamu's area was being improved I hereby name this squirrel who was on the construction fence Shamu (We could have watched the show but always missed it and weren't overly fussed.

The Polar Express will help us move along swiftly...
To the end of our Sea World adventure, but don't fear, the adventure will continue at Busch Gardens very soon!

Here it is, my blog on my trip to Florida! It will be split up into 5 entries, 1 on each of the parks: SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, LEGOLAND Florida, Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios.
Because it is always such a relaxed park and was the start and end to our holiday, first up is SeaWorld!

It's just a lovely place to walk into and as the holidays were approaching, everywhere was all Christmassy! What more could you want?
Of course, a B&M flyer with a water splash right in front of you as you turn the corner.

What's its name I hear you ask...

And up they go!
The ride is amazing, such force on the pretzel loop and a great flying experience with some decent interaction with the waterfall entrance feature. Definitely stands proud on SeaWorld's skyline! What also makes this ride great is that if you hate rides, there is a lovely aquarium next door which shares the tank you walk past in the ride queue and has some of its own species such as an octopus.


Moving on we find ourselves at yet more stingrays, so we must be at Stingray Lagoon!

This pool allows you to stroke (if that's what you'd call it) stingrays! They do like to splash around though which is always good fun!
On our way to Trek with some Turtles, these fellas swam by.

Blue Horizons (dolphin show) is a great mix of music, colour and dolphins.


Woah dude!

Look a turtle!

2 turtles!
Turtle Trek is a lovely new attraction. Whilst I wasn't a massive fan of having to queue to see the underwater viewing, 5 minutes isn't bad and the 3D 360 degree movie was a great story! And the music in that area is so calming and relaxing.
Time for some sunbathing.

Who doesn't love alligators?

Journey To Atlantis was next and I have to say, this is the ride that needs refurbing next! The dark ride bit is seriously outdated in its effects, makes little sense and is wasted potential. It just shows how old it is especially with the dark rides being made by Uni. Other than that, a good fun water ride with a coastery final drop.

The Kraken awaited us!

Fortunately it was wide awake so we didn't have to disturb it.

Poor Kraken never gets any sleep with these sea lions and gulls around!

Pirate Island! Clyde and Seamore save the day in what has to be my favourite show at SeaWorld. The humour is great and the audience interaction is amazing. A tip for everyone, get to this show 20 minutes early, it is so worth being there that early!

Next up we travelled to a different place entirely, Antarctica!

Where they also celebrate Christmas.


This icy world transports you to the freezing cold penguin environment.



The enclosure is superb! The ride good fun (mild is very mild wild is basically mild) but nonetheless a decent ride and a big improvement on the old penguin area.

Continuing on we ascended this 300ft SkyTower.

Previously you've had to pay for this but now it is free for everyone and offers some great views of the park and surrounding area. You can clearly see the Epcot ball, Tower of Terror, Space Mountain and Doctor Dooms Freefall.




Jaws I mean Shark Encounter followed and hopefully this will be the next enclosure to get a refurb once the Shamu one is complete.



We then had a go on the flamingo boats.

Saw some actual flamingos and went on the quest for Shamu!

As Shamu's area was being improved I hereby name this squirrel who was on the construction fence Shamu (We could have watched the show but always missed it and weren't overly fussed.

The Polar Express will help us move along swiftly...
To the end of our Sea World adventure, but don't fear, the adventure will continue at Busch Gardens very soon!

Here it is, my blog on my trip to Florida! It will be split up into 5 entries, 1 on each of the parks: SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, LEGOLAND Florida, Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios.
Because it is always such a relaxed park and was the start and end to our holiday, first up is SeaWorld!

It's just a lovely place to walk into and as the holidays were approaching, everywhere was all Christmassy! What more could you want?
Of course, a B&M flyer with a water splash right in front of you as you turn the corner.

What's its name I hear you ask...

And up they go!
The ride is amazing, such force on the pretzel loop and a great flying experience with some decent interaction with the waterfall entrance feature. Definitely stands proud on SeaWorld's skyline! What also makes this ride great is that if you hate rides, there is a lovely aquarium next door which shares the tank you walk past in the ride queue and has some of its own species such as an octopus.


Moving on we find ourselves at yet more stingrays, so we must be at Stingray Lagoon!

This pool allows you to stroke (if that's what you'd call it) stingrays! They do like to splash around though which is always good fun!
On our way to Trek with some Turtles, these fellas swam by.

Blue Horizons (dolphin show) is a great mix of music, colour and dolphins.


Woah dude!

Look a turtle!

2 turtles!
Turtle Trek is a lovely new attraction. Whilst I wasn't a massive fan of having to queue to see the underwater viewing, 5 minutes isn't bad and the 3D 360 degree movie was a great story! And the music in that area is so calming and relaxing.
Time for some sunbathing.

Who doesn't love alligators?

Journey To Atlantis was next and I have to say, this is the ride that needs refurbing next! The dark ride bit is seriously outdated in its effects, makes little sense and is wasted potential. It just shows how old it is especially with the dark rides being made by Uni. Other than that, a good fun water ride with a coastery final drop.

The Kraken awaited us!

Fortunately it was wide awake so we didn't have to disturb it.

Poor Kraken never gets any sleep with these sea lions and gulls around!

Pirate Island! Clyde and Seamore save the day in what has to be my favourite show at SeaWorld. The humour is great and the audience interaction is amazing. A tip for everyone, get to this show 20 minutes early, it is so worth being there that early!

Next up we travelled to a different place entirely, Antarctica!

Where they also celebrate Christmas.


This icy world transports you to the freezing cold penguin environment.



The enclosure is superb! The ride good fun (mild is very mild wild is basically mild) but nonetheless a decent ride and a big improvement on the old penguin area.

Continuing on we ascended this 300ft SkyTower.

Previously you've had to pay for this but now it is free for everyone and offers some great views of the park and surrounding area. You can clearly see the Epcot ball, Tower of Terror, Space Mountain and Doctor Dooms Freefall.




Jaws I mean Shark Encounter followed and hopefully this will be the next enclosure to get a refurb once the Shamu one is complete.



We then had a go on the flamingo boats.

Saw some actual flamingos and went on the quest for Shamu!

As Shamu's area was being improved I hereby name this squirrel who was on the construction fence Shamu (We could have watched the show but always missed it and weren't overly fussed.

The Polar Express will help us move along swiftly...
To the end of our Sea World adventure, but don't fear, the adventure will continue at Busch Gardens very soon!