Lake Eve Resort a Luxurious Orlando Retreat

Sophistication and style create a wonderful retreat at Lake Eve Resort.  Located on the quiet side of International Drive, guests of the resort have easy access to Orlando attractions yet enjoy a world all their own.  The resort is designed to envelope guests in comfort and accomplishes its goal with richly appointed rooms, inviting amenities and reasonable rates for all that is afforded. 

Bordering the quaint Lake Eve, a stay here provides a natural Florida feel as all units face the pool and lake area.  It’s an inviting view and the ambiance of Florida can be soaked in even further on Lake Eve’s sundeck, a large dock equipped with 50 or so sun loungers.  Cool off in the large, crystal clear pool or relax in the Jacuzzi, enjoy a drink from the Tiki Bar or get your sweat on at the 24 hour Fitness Center, featuring a men and women’s sauna.  The choice is yours at Lake Eve Resort.  A full service restaurant serves dinner from 6pm-11pm, too, as well as breakfast from 7am-11am to help you start you day.  Conveniently, Lake Eve Resort Orlando has complimentary shuttles to Walt Disney World Parks, Universal Orlando Resort, Sea World and Aquatica and an I-Drive trolley stop makes it easy to hop around International Drive.  I must mention the lush, scenic landscaping of Orlando’s Lake Eve Resort.  Vegetation from palm trees to blossoming plants added to the appeal of the property.

Inside the accommodations at Lake Eve Resort, which are available in suites or two and three bedrooms, I was immersed in upscale furnishings.  Everything from the décor to the appliances to the bedding was befitting of the standards of a luxury resort.  All the details are covered, from a sleek and spacious masterbath with whirlpool, walk-in shower and dual sinks to flat screen televisions in all bedrooms and living room to a private balcony with scenic views. 

The residence-style condominiums available at Lake Eve Resort Florida are complimented nicely by its services, amenities and location. I found it to be a hidden gem in Orlando.  Recommending it to others is easy and I look forward to staying there again.

Adventure Awaits with Wild Willy's Airboat Tours

Ready for a wild airboat ride?  Head to Wild Willy’s Airboat Tours for a unique ride on beautiful Lake Tohopekaliga in St. Cloud, Florida.  Wild Willy’s is one of the only airboat operators close to Orlando attractions but far enough away to give you a real, natural Florida experience. 

Thrill seekers, nature lovers and explorers of all ages will enjoy a tour aboard an airboat.  Not sure what an airboat is?  Well, it’s a flat-bottomed vessel propelled by an aircraft-type propeller (read: big fan) and powered by either an aircraft or automotive engine.  They’re used to navigate the shallow waters of the lakes, rivers and swamps in Florida and they are pretty much the only way to get up close and personal with the wildlife in those areas. 

Wild Willy’s Airboat Rides are some of the best in the area as they cater to smaller groups, allowing for more personal interaction and better views of the scenery and wildlife you see along the way.  I was more than comfortable on their 500hp, six passenger high performance airboat.  Plus, the boat had tiered seating meaning everyone had a great perspective of the sights.  Our airboat captain – Captain Dan – was quite insightful and took us to all the places he knew gators would be hiding.  Earmuffs are available for all passengers to help drown out the combustion of the airboat, but I was okay not using mine.  Soaking up the Florida landscape, the ride aboard the airboat was smooth.  As flocks of birds flew through the clear blue sky, Captain Dan navigated the airboat through, around and into places I never thought it could go.   

Captain Dan was an absolute expert on the gators we got to see, explaining to us rides in the morning are preferable as the gators are not fans of heat.  Plus, he pointed out to us an alligator that was almost state-record level –which is currently at 14’3”.  Even better, our captain was able to stop the boat right next to the gators allowing us a very up-close and personal experience.  One of the best stops was near a grouping of baby alligators.  As each of us looked on we would see another baby gator we hadn’t seen before…and then we saw the mama gator, effortlessly blending into the habitat, watching us watch her young. 

Throughout my ride with Wild Willy's, I was mesmerized by the natural beauty of Florida.  All around was lush, green plants, Lilly-covered patches of water, mossy trees and even a beautiful bonnet field.  We even spotted a large bald eagle we were able to get rather close to before he eventually flew away.  Watching this spectacular creature in his natural environment was a definite highlight of the trip.  Of course, Captain Dan had to throw in come hair-pin and 360 degrees turns for added excitement, bringing cheers and smiles from all aboard. 

After the airboat ride, I went back to the main office where I got to hold a baby alligator.  Be sure to do this on your visit.  And snap a few photos your friends won’t believe! 

Lumberjack Feud an Action Packed Pigeon Forge Adventure

One of the most adventurous shows you can see in the Smoky Mountains is the Lumberjack Feud.  Set in a new $10 million theater, the show is one of the most unique, entertaining and action-packed shows in Pigeon Forge.  Watch as lumberjack athletes compete in events like log rolling and ax throwing, all while they settle the biggest Lumberjack Feud in the Smokies.

Set in 1934, right after the land creating the Great Smoky Mountain National Park was annexed, the two feuding families are the Dawsons and the McGraws.  They are battling it out for the last logging rights in the Smokies and plenty of raucous fun ensues.  Not only do attendees of the show get to see lumberjacks and lumberjills compete in serious competition, there is also lots of humor and good-natured ribbing occurring between both teams which creates lots of laughs. 

Guests can choose a dinner and show option or show only option.  I decided to have dinner and a show so I could try their Lumberjack Camp-style dinner.  Plus, who doesn’t love to be entertained while they dine.  Served shortly after being seated, the dinner includes pork tenderloin, mesquite chicken breast, macaroni and cheese, green beans or baked beans, dinner roll and a delicious dessert.  ( I was served  delightful strawberry shortcake, but on some nights dessert is blueberry cobbler.)   I was impressed with the quality of the meat served and as a macaroni and cheese fanatic, was pleasantly surprised at the richness and cheesiness of the side dish.

The action of the show, though, is  the real highlight of any night at Lumberjack Feud.  The fast-paced production had the Lumberjack athletes competing in sawing races, boom runs, log rolling,springboard chopping, ax chopping and throwing, pole climbing and hot saw competitions.  Even the flying timer dogs get in on theaction with extreme launches that reach up to seven feet in the air.  Draft horses make appearances too, adding to the authentic nature of the show.  Two of my favorite competitions of the Lumberjack Feud Show were the boom run and log rolls, as nothing beats adding a little water to events to make them even harder.  Boom run reminded me of Frogger, in how you had to jump from one log to the next to make it across the pond, while log roll always ended in a splash as inevitable one lumberjack outlasts the other as they literally run across a log in water.  Watching the timber dogs a favorite too, as these dogs take “go fetch” to a whole new level. 

Be sure to arrive at the Pigeon Forge Lumberjack Feud early to get your souvenir photo taken and to snap a photo or two with the strolling bears.  The Smoky Mountain Lumberjack Feud is one of the most unique shows in the nation and one of the only ones to celebrate the legacy of the American logger.  It’s an all-around entertaining show that excels at recreating the history and culture of the Smoky Mountains.

Destiny Palms Orlando One of the Best Budget Properties

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly hotel Orlando hotel that has quality accommodations look no further than Destiny Palms.  The small, unassuming property is located on Hwy 192 in the Kissimmee area and is less than three miles from the Walt Disney World Theme Park entrance.  Even better, the hotel has a surprising level of hospitality and service considering its value-based theme.

One of the things I enjoyed most about my stay at Destiny Palms Orlando was the exceptional quality of the rooms.  Extremely comfortable and restful beds, flat screen televisions and the in-room microwave and fridge upgraded the experience at Destiny Palms. Even the bathrooms had a nice, polished vanity, walk-in shower and tile (as opposedto the linoleum you’ll find at most budget properties).  Plus, the accommodations were a nice surprise for the price paid – always a bonus.  My stay at Destiny Palms Orlando made me rethink the idea of a budget property as they elevated my Orlando visit at every turn. 

Amenities at the hotel included a small business center with one computer, continental breakfast served from 6am-9am and an outdoor pool that was clean and inviting.  A picnic area is coming soon and the hotel has a newly repainted exterior.

Small but efficient, Destiny Palms Hotel is a top choice for any money-minded traveler.

Intrigue and Improv Headline at Sleuth's Mystery Dinner Show

Orlando's Sleuths Mystery Dinner Show is a one-of-a-kind and truly out-of-the-ordinary dinner show. Inconspicuously located in a former mini-mall on International Drive, Sleuths is an improvisational style show with lots of audience interaction.  Aimed towards an adult audience, the characters and are tongue-in-cheek caricatures leading revelers in a night of comedy and delicious food. 

Guests can begin their evening in the gift shop and lobby with appetizers. Here, the jovial Professor Plum meets with and entertains guests before escorting them to one of the three theaters Sleuths maintains. Each theater is elaborately decorated to give the air of a private banquet. Round tables, seating anywhere from 6-10, are set with salad waiting as groups of guests are brought in. Tables are set up throughout each theater with a variously set stage at one of the walls. The most guests that any of the three theaters seats is 250, so any evening at Sleuths is bound to be intimate.

The setting is not all that makes Sleuths Mystery Dinner Show in Orlando intimate. The performance of the actors in any of Sleuths' 13 rotating shows goes far beyond dinner-show expectations.  Genuine and always in character, the actors of Sleuths create a hilarious atmosphere as you try to solve the nights mystery. 

Inside the one of the three Sleuths theaters.  

During my visit, the show of the night was “G.K.’s 80th Birthday.”  The ensuing set up of the mystery takes about forty-five minutes.  Extravagant characters like Nurse Faber and Virginia Shuttleworth are introduced, and as the story unfolds, I enjoyed a crisp salad and could not get enough of the signature cheese spread and cracker plate.  Beverages such as Bud Light, Budweiser, White Zinfandel, Chardonnay, Cabernet and Pepsi products are also included with the price of the ticket.  The MC joked “they pour freely” at Sleuths, and indeed, unlimited beverages are included making for a lively atmosphere and even livelier question and answer segment! 

Once the plot of the mystery has been told, guests are asked to discuss with their table the mystery and come up with questions to ask the characters.  During this time, dinner is also served.  Four main dinner options are available, including glazed Cornish hen, lasagna with meatballs, lasagna (no meatballs), and prime rib.  I chose the lasagna with meatballs and was impressed by the quality and taste of the meal served.  The good-sized portion was cheesy and rich and the meatballs were well seasoned. 

As dinner is finished, the characters return for a round of questioning, conducted in turn by each table. This showcases the improvisation skills of the actors and brings out a lot of laughs. Note that the improv aspect and interaction with the crowd leads to a fair amount of adult humor but does not use any adult language, so it remains appropriate for young children. After questioning, guests are again left to have their dessert while pondering "Who did it?" and "With what?".   Dessert options included chocolate cake, key lime pie and strawberry shortcake.  The key lime pie was refreshing and had just enough bold key lime flavor. 

After dessert at the Sleuths Mystery Dinner Theater, the suspects – I mean characters – come out on stage and are questioned to admit guilt to the mystery crime.  One by one they are excluded until the real culprit is named.  The guess and reveal will have everyone anxious and excited, and for those who guess correctly there is a prize. 

Tips: The breaks in the show allow for time to use the restroom or step outside. Note that there is only one restroom in the theater so it is a good idea to use the one in the lobby. The show runs two and a half hours but do get there at least an hour before show time due to the prompt seating.

Talented Horses Take Center Stage at Arabian Nights Orlando

Orlando's Arabian Nights is a dazzling horse and dinner show located near Disney World in Kissimmee, Florida.  The production – named The American Princess – follows the journey of an all-American girl and champion rider who discovers she is actually the Princess Scheherazade.  Along with her genie Abracadabra, Princess Scheherazade takes the audience on a magical journey around the world to find her prince – who must love horses as much as she does.

Upon entering the theater guests are ushered into a long waiting hall where a magic show is performed with much flair. To see the entire magic show and get ideal seats, guests should arrive at The Palace of Horses about an hour before showtime.  The arena floor will host games and activities for children, an optional upgrade to a sneak peek of the Horse Stables will be available and a presentation of various horse breeds used in the show will occur 15 minutes prior to the start of the show. 

Arabian Nights Dinner Show guests are seated thirty minutes prior to show time and are met with the largest arena of any Orlando dinner show. At their seats guests will find a prepared salad and a menu. For the evening guests can choose between Pot Roast on Puff Pastry, Sirloin Steak, Pulled Pork, Roasted Chicken Quarter, Chicken Tenders and Vegetable Lasagna.  Service is prompt and the waiters are attentive so don't hesitate to ask for anything.  I ordered the Pulled Pork and it was savory and satisfying, and the portion was large.  Served with mashed potatoes, vegetables and a roll, the meal was typical dinner show food but definitely filled me up.  The chocolate cake at the end tasted like a Little Debbie  brownie treat, and I mean that in the most positive way.  Drinks packages are available for the show, too.  The Basic Drink Package is $5, and includes unlimited Budweiser beer and California Blush wine. The Premium Drink Package is $15 and includes an unlimited selection of Burgundy wine, Chardonnay, Margaritas, Rum Runners, or our House Hard Lemonade.

The show is made up of many numbers that showcase the talents of the horses and riders. Arabian Nights in Orlando boasts a large number of Arabian horses whose beauty is sure to impress guests. The Gypsy scene, the longest and most talent showcasing scene, has riders performing various acrobatic stunts on horseback. The show also incorporates some contemporary music to make their salutes to America more moving.  The Unicorn Dance and Latin America Horse Dance and Native America segments were real highlights, as was the patriotic American cowboy rides.  

Join Princess Scheherazade for a romantic adventure as she finds travels the world to find her prince.  The talent of the riders and horses is sure to impress.  Before leaving the arena, be sure to pet the horses, meet the riders and take some photos as a keepsake.  

Blue Hawaiian Helicopter Tours a Breathtaking Way to See the Big Island

The absolute best way to see the beauty of the Big Island is with Blue Hawaiian Helicopter Tours.  Board one of their Eco-Star or A-Star helicopters for a once-in-a-lifetime experience featuring the scenic wonders of the Big Island.

Blue Hawaiian offers two Big Island tours – the Kohala Coast Adventure and the Big Island Spectacular.  During my vacation on the island, I decided to splurge and chose the Big Island Spectacular tour.  Rated the “World’s Best Helicopter Thrill” by the Travel Channel, the tour boasts sights such as the Hawaii Volcanoes National park, including  the famous Kilauea volcano, the Hamakua and Kohala Coast, breathtaking waterfalls and towering sea cliffs.  I knew this was the perfect adventure to add to my Big Island itinerary.

I recommend arriving at the Blue Hawaiian Helicopters Big Island Waikoloa office about 45 minutes prior to your departure.  This gives the office adequate time to check their passengers in and present a quick safety briefing.  With anticipation building, my name was soon called and my group of six made its way to the helicopter.  Seat assignments are based on weight, but the Eco-Star helicopter provided excellent viewing no matter where  you were seated.  Two passengers are placed up front, along with the pilot, while four others are seated behind them.  I was on the inside of the four passengers,and still was amazed by not only the sights but at the quality images and video I was able to get.  A quick note about photos – be sure to wear shirts that are subdued in color.  If not, the camera picks those colors up in the reflection of the window and can really mar some of your gorgeous shots.  

The weather during my excursion was perfect and provided us with optimum viewing conditions.  The pilot, who I have to say was very relaxed, knowledgeable and engaging, even joked about how he was going to have to charge us extra for all of the extraordinary rainbows we were witnessing.  Truly, it seemed every 10 minutes we were flying through or over another rainbow, which added a magical touch to the experience.  During the flight, which was very smooth, everyone is given a headset and microphone so you are encouraged to ask questions and interact with the pilot.  In fact, the entire flight is recorded, both visually and aurally, and the DVD is available for purchase after the flight.  In my opinion the $25 charge for the DVD was well worth it as a mounted camera on the exterior of the helicopter captured spectacular sights of the tour while the interspersing of interior cabin shots and audio from the tour added the “we were there” vibe. 

Blue Hawaiian Tours gets you closer to the sights than ever possible by land.  The scenery was magnificent and I could not believe I was able to view Kilauea volcano steaming and spewing red, vibrant lava; swoop into valleys featuring numerous waterfalls cascading from lush mountains; see the emerald green splendor of the Hamakua Coast featuring waterfalls descending into the bright blue ocean waters; tour Waipio Valley, home to the breathtaking Hi’ilawe Waterfall, which drops an amazing 1,600 feet; and descend into the mountains and valleys of the Kohala Coast to view the lush, tropical rainforest and cliffs of the Big Island’s northern most point.  The full two hour tour gives you an in-depth look at the island and it is remarkable to see the contrasting landscapes.  From the sheer sea bluffs to the lush valleys and rainforests to the dry, stark lava fields and volcanic craters, the Big Island Spectacular tour takes you on a journey to the island’s most impressive sights.