Florida Christmas Season Travel Guide
No rushing, no marathon walking β just a relaxed holiday escape. Large temperature swings β bring a warm coat for after 4 PM! New York βοΈ Orlando π Universal Studios Main Park + Islands of Adventure Stayed at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel β one night stay included a 2-day Express Pass! π« Hottest rides had waits of only 10β20 minutes. β Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey β rode it twice! π§ββοΈ β Hagridβs Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure β thrilling and fun! ποΈ β Butterbeer β as delicious as everyone says! π» π€ Hotel offers boat shuttles to the parks β super convenient. Disney Time π Magic Kingdom + Animal Kingdom π Magic Kingdom fireworks β the absolute highlight, pure magic and joy! β¨π π¦ Animal Kingdom β snagged a last-minute Avatar Flight of Passage Lightning Lane pass! π Tip: Keep refreshing the app β passes do pop up! Orlando π Tampa (1 hour) π Silver Springs State Park πΆ The most anticipated activity, but reality had some challenges: β οΈ Book in advance on the official website. β οΈ Arrive early (10 AMβ2 PM) for the best light and warmth. β οΈ Bring spare clothes β you will get soaked, whether in shorts or pants. β οΈ Clear-bottom kayaks require removing shoes β your feet will touch muddy ground, and shoes could get lost (mentally prepare!). Wildlife sightings: A friend spotted a manatee group in the main river, while I saw otters and ducks in a side stream π¦¦π¦. Tampa π Miami (4 hours) π South Beach ποΈ π Vizcaya Museum & Gardens πͺ΄ Miami Food Highlights Three excellent Latin restaurants β all recommended! Cviche 105 Besides the popular steak and spinach pasta, try the beef & shredded chicken rice bowl β the chicken melts into the rice, so flavorful! π 105 NE 3rd Ave Pollos & Jarras Right next to Cviche 105 β you can even order some dishes from 105 here. 105 = upscale vibe | P&J = street-style, meat-heavy feast π₯© β Grilled beef heart and steak β must-order! β Chicken was just okay. π 115 NE 3rd Ave Tapelia Portions are HUGE β their paella could easily feed four! β Pork Osso Bucco with mashed potatoes β absolutely order this! π 551 Lincoln Rd, Miami Beach Miami βοΈ New York Ended the year with sunshine, sea, and savory memories β Florida, you festive gem! ππ Wishing you a warm, bright, and delicious holiday season in Florida! #US #Florida #Orlando