Orlando trip, part 2

After we'd checked in and got to the room, we rested for a bit and unpacked all our clothes to avoid nasty wrinkles from the suitcase. There is a very nice walking path from the resort to the parks. It is about a 10 minute walk and is surrounded by beautiful trees, flowers, plants, and follows a canal used by the water taxi boats the hotel also operates.

We walked the path since it was a beautiful day and it felt good to walk after being cooped up in the plane for 3 hours. We first stopped at Margaritaville, located in CitiWalk which is a large area of shops, clubs, and restaurants outside the parks, open to the public. We had lunch and then made our way to Universal Studios.

We had a great time sightseeing, enjoying the rides, and people watching. We had dinner at the bar&grill located at the resort and had an early bedtime. The next morning we hit up the breakfast buffet, got our daily caffeine intake, and then headed out to the parks again on foot. this time we went to Islands of Adventure, which is the thrill ride park. Lots of huge rollercoasters and other crazy rides.

We went back to the hotel around 4 or so to rest for a bit and get ready for the luau the resort does a few times a week. They have it outdoors in a very nice pavilion with a stage at the front. We got checked in and waited in line while the staff put the final touches on the luau including putting out several large space heaters since it was a chilly 55 degree Florida night.

Before we went in, a very cheerful Hawaiian woman came out giving everyone leis and taking pictures with the kids. We were shown to our table by a very friendly server who let us know he would be taking care of us that night. He showed us to the buffet and we were in awe of the spread they had. All sorts of delicious food from the South Pacific islands, and the traditional roast hog. Did I mention that Mai Tais were included? The service was fantastic, filling our glasses back up before they were even half empty.

A band played excellent Hawaiian music while we ate and chatted with our table-mates. Once everyone was done eating, the entertainment started. I honestly wasn't expecting much other than some cheesy hula dancing but it was actually very fun and exciting. They had 3 women and 2 men doing traditional dances from Hawaii, Tahiti, and Samoa. The most thrilling part of the night is when the men did the fire dancing. Our table was right up front by the stage, so we had a fantastic view.

The night unfortunately had come to an end, so we headed back up to the room, full and exhausted.

more to come....