eat. fly. shuteye.
  • Blog
  • About
  • Published
  • Travel Tips
  • Links
  • Contact

Play: Epcot Festivals, Walt Disney World, Orlando FL

9/14/2018

0 Comments

 
Epcot is my favorite park. I love daydreaming that I've traveled to a far-off country in the World Showcase. I set my silly fears aside to ride Soarin' and Frozen (no, I don't have the guts to ride Test Track or Mission:Space!) And EVERYONE should ride Spaceship Earth and Living with the Land at least once in their life!

There are several great times throughout the year to be in Epcot - especially during their annual festivals. After all, no one knows how to throw a party like Disney!

International Festival of the Arts (mid January-mid February)

​In January and February, the newest festival that offers a lot of fun is the International Festival of the Arts. Statues come alive. Paint a picture along the water. Catch a Disney Broadway music stage show. Plus there are Disney animators and artists on hand to discuss, sell, and autograph their work for you to take home. 
Picture
A big hit are the (FREE!) paint-by-numbers murals that get recreated every day with a fresh canvas and guest artists - you! 
Picture
Picture
​Grab a paintbrush and find your numbers in the grid to be a part of the creation. Brushes up!
Picture
The murals start to come to life - can you imagine what the picture will be in the end?
Picture

Even the samplers from the Food Studio kiosks around the park are a work of art - a beautiful and tasty palette for your palate!


Be sure to check out this winter art festival as Epcot expands its offerings every year!
Picture

International Flower & Garden Festival (March-May)

One of the most beautiful - and best-smelling! - times to go to Epcot is during the Spring when the whole park is full of gorgeous gardens and topiary plants trimmed into the shape of your favorite Disney characters. My first trip to Walt Disney World was during the International Flower & Garden Festival so it will always hold a special place in my heart!
Picture
Stop by the flower-filled butterfly tent to see all the stages of a butterfly's life! This is located right behind the building for Club Cool and the Character Spot. On your way to the World Showcase, check out the colorful landscaping around the ponds below the Monorail.
Picture
Picture
Wander around the World Showcase and throughout Future World to see all the creative topiaries and fragrant floral displays.
Picture
Picture
And let's not forget the fresh-grown garden food to sample - after all, it wouldn't be an Epcot festival without it!
Picture
Picture

International Food & Wine Festival (late August-mid November)

Personally, this is where I spend most of my fall weekends and look forward to it every year! The International Food & Wine Festival is a fabulous way to eat and drink your way around the world, without flying across an ocean. World Showcase is home to 11 countries year-round, but during the fall, this grows to represent delicious food, wine, beer, and other delights from 30 countries!
Picture
Samples are served tapas style, perfect portions to share with a friend. Food bites typically cost between $4-8 each, alcoholic beverages run $4-14 each, and nonalcoholic beverages are about $3-6 each. I'm a fairly cheap date... usually after 3 kiosks, I'm full! 
Picture
Picture
One of my first stops is usually in Future World West, where you'll find some lick-the-plate-clean farm fresh delicacies. I also love to swing by the Islands of the Caribbean... they're Jamaican me hungry for a bite, mon!
Picture
Gluten free? You must grab some pao de queijo (cheese bread) and crispy pork belly in Brazil, which you can get with or without black beans!
Picture
Picture
Canada is my #1 favorite with their steak! Every time I go, I savor this fork-tender filet mignon with wild mushrooms and truffle butter,  paired with a sweet ice wine, if you care to drink your dessert.

Enjoy every morsel while relaxing in Canada's hidden gem - my favorite gardens, designed after the real thing in British Columbia's  Butchart Gardens.

Candlelight Processional & International Festival of the Holidays (mid November-late December)

For years, Disney fans have flocked to Epcot for the Christmas season to see all the countries decked out in their holiday best! The main attraction - Candlelight Processional - has been a crowd favorite for decades! It has been one of the most popular performances in the park throughout the holidays. Running from Thanksgiving to New Year's, you will find the American Adventure pavilion bursting at the seams with holiday classics at the America Gardens Theatre.
With three performances every evening, the air is filled with beloved Christmas carols and hymns by a 50+ piece orchestra and 300+ person choir, including the Voices of Liberty representing a shining Christmas Tree, topped with a star. 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
​The Christmas story is woven throughout the Processional, narrated by dozens of celebrities who love Disney. Over the years, I've had the pleasure to see readings by the two most popular narrators, Whoopi Goldberg (left) and Neil Patrick Harris, as well as first-timer Matt Bomer (below) and others.
Picture
Picture
I even passed Whoopi Goldberg while she was shopping in Disney Springs and on her way to Rivers of Light in Animal Kingdom, where she was seated in the VIP section.
Picture
The warm weather in Florida isn't as noticeable with the Christmas decorations around the World Showcase, decked out  in all the finest traditional trimmings of the holidays for each country. There are also a number of Epcot's famous food kiosks to fill you with the Christmas spirit and a few holiday treats from around the world. 
Picture
Picture
Which Epcot festival is your favorite? Drop your comments below to share your best Disney memories!
0 Comments

Play: Things to Do Around the Bay - Tampa/St Petersburg, FL

12/16/2017

0 Comments

 
The Tampa/St Petersburg metro area is a great place to visit on the Gulf Coast in central Florida. I have lived here for several years now and enjoy taking visitors to a lot of fun places in the area - I've always loved being a tourist in my own city!

Animals & Wildlife

  • Big Cat Rescue
  • Busch Gardens
  • ​Clearwater Marine Aquarium - see Hope & Winter, the famous dolphins from "Dolphin Tale" and "Dolphin Tale 2"
  • ​Dade City's Wild Things - hold baby lions, tigers, bears... and more, oh my!
  • Dinosaur World
  • Florida Aquarium
  • ZooTampa (formerly Lowry Park Zoo)​
  • Safari Wilderness
  • Sea Bird Hospital & Sanctuary

Beaches & Parks

  • ​Busch Gardens
  • Clearwater Beach - Sand Key Park great for shells
  • ​Fort DeSoto County Park & North Beach - good for shells
  • Honeymoon Island State Park & Beach
  • Indian Rocks Beach - great for shells
  • Indian Shores 
  • Lettuce Lake Conservation Park
  • ​Madeira Beach
  • Siesta Key - Sarasota, great for shells
  • Sunken Gardens
  • USF Botanical Gardens
  • ​Weedon Island Preserve

Culture, History, and Museums

  • ​SS American Victory
  • Chihuly Collection
  • Dali Museum
  • ​Fort Foster State Park
  • Glazer Children's Museum
  • Great Explorations Children's Museum
  • Henry B Plant Museum
  • Heritage Village
  • Florida Holocaust Museum
  • Museum of Fine Arts St Petersburg
  • MoSI (Museum of Science & Industry)
  • Polk Museum of Art
  • ​St Petersburg Museum of History
  • Straz Center for the Performing Arts
  • ​Tampa Bay History Center
  • ​Tampa Museum of Art
  • Tampa Theatre: Nonprofit Movie Palace
  • Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks and Spongeorama's Sponge Factory

Eat & Drink

Fine Dining
  • Bern's Steakhouse - Tampa
  • Oystercatchers at Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay
Casual Dining
  • Crabby Bill's - Indian Rocks Beach
  • Hott Mess Cafe & Food Truck
  • Nico's Arepas Grill & Food Truck
  • O'Maddy's Bar & Grille - Gulfport
  • The Refinery
Tacos, Tacos, and MORE TACOS!
  • California Tacos
  • Chronic Tacos
  • Don Julio's Mexican
  • ​Fuzzy's Tacos
  • Loli's Mexican Cravings
  • Rocco's Tacos
  • Taco Bus - check out the original Bus in Tampa!
  • Tijuana Flats
Sweet Treats
  • ​Haze Ice Cream including allergy friendly options, like dairy free/sugar free/gluten free ice cream and gluten free cones!
  • Strachan's Ice Cream
  • Sweet Divas Chocolates

Shop

  • Downtown Dunedin
  • International Plaza & Bay Street
  • ​The Shops at Wiregrass

Sports

  • Amalie Arena
    • Tampa Bay Lightning (NHL)
    • Concerts & Events
  • Raymond James Stadium
    • Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL)
    • USF Bulls Football (NCAA)
    • Concerts & Events
  • Tropicana Field
    • Tampa Bay Rays (MLB)
  • Yuengling Center
    • USF Bulls Men's Basketball (NCAA)
    • USF Bulls Women's Basketball (NCAA)
    • Concerts & Events
Have more places you love to visit in the area? Comment below and be added to the list!

Last updated: April 8, 2019

0 Comments

Eat: Wild Wood Bakehouse Gluten Free Cafe, Austin TX

8/9/2016

0 Comments

 
Have you ever cried over fried chicken? I have. Because for the past 7 years, I was not able to find a gluten-free, finger-lickin' good fried chicken. 

​That is - until I stumbled upon Wild Wood Bakehouse and their Sunday all-you-care-to-enjoy brunch. They are a 100% gluten-free cafe and bakery in Austin, TX, so no one has to worry about cross contamination. They also offer some dairy-free and egg-free options as well.
Picture
Picture
The biscuits and gravy were divine - the crusty outside of the biscuit and the heavy, creamy gravy had just a hint of peppery tang. Migas are a local favorite with tortillas, eggs, and cheese. 

Their fluffy waffles are made fresh, one at a time. The light, airy French toast was so good that the gluten eater with me couldn’t tell the difference The carnita meat had clearly been braised in spices for a good long time – I was impressed with the burst of flavor. Despite my dairy intolerances, I had to try a little of the Mac & Cheese with the large round noodles and it was well worth any discomfort later.

And the fried chicken - please just do yourself a favor and GO... NOW! Run, don't walk!

There are brunch standards of 
bacon, scrambled eggs, veggie medley, rice pilaf, fresh fruit, and black beans. The meal includes a mimosa, orange juice, or sweet tea and the service is very friendly and simple – help yourself! 
Picture
Picture
Picture
And let's not forget the gluten-free bakery that's open all week too! Rows of sweet cupcakes in a variety of flavors, along with freshly baked breads, muffins, cinnamon rolls, cookies, and cakes.
Picture
Joan, the owner, is a lovely little woman with a passion for gluten free foods and has been offering the very best in Austin since 2002. She also organizes annual small group trips to Meso-America with gluten-free menus so you can enjoy a vacation without worry. These trips were formed after her own discovery of feeling better when she traveled to this area of the world and didn't have digestive issues with their food (but did realize that she felt worse upon returning home).
0 Comments

Play: Planning a Walt Disney World Vacation, Orlando FL

9/24/2015

0 Comments

 
If you are planning a Walt Disney World trip and would like some tips, here is some of my "expert" advice!
  • You do not need to have kids or be a kid to enjoy Disney! All ages are welcome and have a magical time!
  • Stay at a resort on property - you get more perks and inclusions! (Magical Express transfers to/from the Orlando airport, Magic Bands, dining plan, Extra Magic Hours, and more!)
  • Stock up on Disney gift cards at Target with your Red Card - get 5% off!
  • Combine your Disney gift card balances at disneygiftcard.com (up to $1000 per card) so you aren't carrying a stack of cards with you - also your travel agent or Disney agent will greatly appreciate your efforts when you call in to make a payment 
  • Book dining reservations 180 days prior to your travel dates (or as soon as you book the trip if it's less than 6 months out) - then sit back for 6 months and don't worry about getting into the best places! Especially if you want dinner at Ohana, breakfast at Chef Mickey's, anything at Cinderella's Royal Table and Be Our Guest, or any type of character dining. Do NOT use one of those paid services that sets up reservations - contact Disney directly (Call 407-WDW-DINE to get the reservations all set up for your visit at one time!)
  • Plan which park(s) you are going to on which days, based on the number of theme park tickets you get and if they are 1 park per day or Park Hopper tickets. Check the park hours for each day to see which ones are open the most hours (based on Extra Magic Hours or possible closings for special events). This will cut down on time spent on transportation if you spend all day in one park but if you do park hop, you can have an idea of what you want to do at each park for the day and plan time for going between parks.
  • You can set up FastPass+ (FP) reservations - basically a FREE and easy way to "cut to the front of the line" included with your theme park tickets - 30 days prior to your trip (60 days if you're staying at a Disney resort) You must have a theme park ticket purchased and linked in your My Disney Experience account or app to set up FP ... you can set up 3 per person per day (in 1 park). There is no charge to set them up and you are not penalized if you miss or don't use the FP. You can modify them at any point. I personally set up my FP for early in the day - morning and early afternoon - because once you use up the 3 FP for the day, you can go to the FP kiosks in the theme parks and set up another FP, one at a time, every time you use one up (based on what is available for later in the day). If you have Park Hopper tickets, you will need to use up your 3 FP in the first park before you go to the next park. Once you get to the next park, you will need to go to their FP kiosks to see what is available for the day there.
  • The Disney theme parks are popular and open 365 days a year - but the tickets are cheaper when you buy them ahead of time... there are NO authorized third party dealers for Disney park tickets, no matter how fancy their websites might be and what they claim. Buy your tickets DIRECTLY from www.disneyworld.com or call 407-W-DISNEY and a friendly Disney agent will help you! 
  • Leave your selfie stick at home (they're just going to confiscate it).... BUY A MEMORY MAKER - especially if it's your first visit or you're taking a large group/family. TOTALLY WORTH IT!!!!!!!!!!!!! Set it up at least 3 days prior to your trip to get the discount rate.
  • If you don't have park tickets for your entire stay, spend your partial days at Disney Springs - you don't need a ticket for this outdoor shopping mall with lots of shops, restaurants, and fun things to do! There are also fun things like carriage rides at some of the resorts, parasailing and other water sports at Sammy Duvall (Contemporary Resort's Boat Nook Marina), and a number of tours that you can book 3-6 months in advance!
  • Universal Studios and Sea World are NOT owned by Disney and no, Disney doesn't sell the tickets for them. Disney only offers tickets for Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios (formerly MGM), Animal Kingdom, and Epcot!
  • If it's your first visit, birthday, anniversary, or any other type of celebration, stop by the Guest Relations desk and get your free button! :)
I promise - it will be magical and you will not starve or run out of things to do and see, no matter how many days you stay and play!
0 Comments

Fly: Simple Things I Love About CLT Airport, Charlotte NC

8/6/2015

0 Comments

 
This past week I had to fly home for my grandma's funeral unexpectedly. I lucked out on some decent airfare on US Airways and had a 3-hour layover in Charlotte - an airport I have normally ran through, trying to make a tight connection. I was able to relax and enjoy some of the things that make this airport a new favorite on my list.

Moving sidewalks - this airport is full of them! They literally saved me from missing a free trip to the Caribbean once because I had 20 minutes to get from one end of the airport to the other to make it onto my next flight. When you're lugging a heavy carry-on and loaded-down backpack, it's nice to gain ground without too much extra effort - whether you're running or lazy. Just be sure to respect the "rules of the road" and stand or walk on the appropriate side.

Great spots to shop or eat - I don't know if there's another airport with as many stores, kiosks, or restaurants per capita? It is so nice to have a multitude of choices - literally every-which-way you turn - when you've got time to sit down for a meal (especially in my case with being gluten-free and having limited "eating out" options). I can vouch for the juicy burgers at Bad Daddy's Burger Bar and tasty tacos at the Jose Cuervo Tequileria being great on-the-go lunch options.

Bathroom attendants - this is just about as Southern as you can get. A smiling woman who whistles or hums Gospel tunes in the bathroom, with an assortment of toiletries like mouthwash, mints, and tissues and the magic touch when the automatic soap or water won't turn on for you. I've lived up north my whole life but have always been a Southern girl at heart and love the small touches of hospitality. Don't forget to tip!
Picture
Rock On! These are a little hidden gem that CLT travelers love - the white rocking chairs scattered throughout the airport. I have yet to find someone that has been through Charlotte and hasn't gotten excited to tell of the rockers. It can be tough to find an unoccupied one, especially with a nice view out the window. Perfect for some people-watching or just to sit and relax for a while, pretending you're sitting on a large wrap-around porch on a beautiful summer day. All that's missing from this picture of Southern hospitality is a little Spanish moss hanging from the trees.

One day I shall return, Charlotte. Save a seat for me!
0 Comments

Play: How to Enjoy a Rainy Day at the Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World, Orlando FL

7/28/2015

0 Comments

 
It's been a little over a month since I drove across the country and moved to Florida for a new job. You will be seeing me post a lot about the most magical place on earth, as I have a new pass that allows me entrance anytime I want... and I will admit I've been going just to eat some of the wonderful gluten-free food sometimes!

Today I visited the Magic Kingdom, despite the forecast calling for a rainy day. Yes, it rained. It's Florida in the middle of summer - it happens. EVERYDAY.

But I know there are many families who save up - sometimes for years! - to go to Walt Disney World and no one wants the weather to spoil their plans. So I'm here to help reassure you that there are a lot of fun things you can do here on a rainy day!
Picture
Picture
It's a Small World
Yes, the song plays the entire ride... however I was more mesmerized by the colorful representations of countries from around the world that I tuned it out after a few continents! It was my first time getting to take in this iconic Disney experience! The mellow boat ride takes you across the globe and gives you some time to dry off. Be sure to get a FastPass+ set up for this ride to avoid the long wait line (some of it is under cover but not the very end... and it can get to be a long wait!) The FastPass+ line will get you indoors for shelter from the rain quicker.
Picture
Picture
The Liberty Belle
All aboard for a relaxing ride along the riverway, passing the route of the Festival of Fantasy parade, Big Thunder Mountain's rollercoaster ride, as well as some other hidden gems along the way - things you wouldn't otherwise see walking through the park. There's plenty of shelter on this lovely old steamboat - mostly standing room, but there are several areas where you can sit down as well. The only parts that aren't really covered are the back of the top deck and the front of the bottom deck.
Picture
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
Take a winding ride with Pooh and pals on a blustery day - there will be a lot of twists and turns, bumps and twirls, just so you are warned! (I was expecting a calm ride and it definitely was not relaxing!) There is a refreshing blast of air here and there on the ride to dry you off too!

Picture
Haunted Mansion
I'll admit that going on this ride was a first for me because I typically don't like anything creepy, scary, or dark. But I am slowly conquering some fears that had given me anxiety over the years - including large crowds and traveling on my own - which I've also been able to calm my nerves with these trips to Walt Disney World so far. I wandered the dark hallways of the mansion with the group of mortals in the FastPass+ line (also highly recommended to avoid the wait, even though the majority of this standby line waits under awnings) and was almost ready to grab the arm of a nearby dad when they put you in a room and all the doors close and the lights go out... but I restrained myself... and lived to tell about the experience at the end of the ride! Yes it's dark and creepy so I am not sure I would take small children on it (though there were plenty on my ride and no one screamed!) but that's just my personal opinion - you can base it on your child's personality and perceptions! Again, this is a longer ride so you can abandon the rainfall and enjoy the dry indoors on a stormy day!

Along with the activities above, there are plenty of other rides, character meet & greets, shops, and restaurants that will allow you to duck inside and stay out of the elements. Enjoy your Disney vacation - rain or shine - and stay dry! Have a magical day!
0 Comments

Eat: Gluten-Free Dining around Walt Disney World, Orlando FL

5/9/2015

0 Comments

 
I had heard many wonderful things about how "allergy friendly" Disneyworld dining options could be... but nothing could compare to the first bites of some incredible gluten-free delights!

Ohana at the Polynesian Resort

Picture
Picture
We had noted my gluten allergy when making dinner reservations at Ohana. The chef came out right after the waitress confirmed which guest had the food allergy and went over the "substitutes" that I would be receiving, as well as which sauces and things were safe for me to eat. The starters for our "family style" meal were great - warm gluten-free buns with melting butter and a citrus tossed salad that I gobbled up in just a few bites (learning to slow down and savor... but we were really hungry after a long day of traveling and walking around the Magic Kingdom!)
Picture
The entree only had a slight modification for my meal - everyone else got to dig into a large bowl of noodles but I got a giant scoop of white rice. My chicken wings were also prepared separately and had a hint of cinnamon to the sauce... they were finger-lickin' good! 

The rest of the meats were served from large skewers that came hot off the grill, Brazilian steakhouse style. These were all safe for me - shrimp and steak were my favorites! I had a lot of sauteed veggies too... I was feeling really full until they brought out my dessert...
Picture
Ooey gooey warmed Enjoy Life chocolate chocolate-chip cookies - my favorites! - topped with ice cream, fresh berries, and a drizzle of chocolate sauce. I ate a few bites of ice cream and polished off the rest of the bowl's treats!

Erin McKenna's Bakery NYC at Downtown Disney

Picture
When is the last time you had a donut, gluten-free people? Like a real cake donut that is chewy and moist and cake-y? Heaven's angels prepare them right here in the heart of Orlando in a little pink-walled bakery amidst the hustle and bustle of Downtown Disney.

I had one bite left before I remembered to snap a photo for you!
They don't just bake donuts either - there's cupcakes and brownies and cinnamon rolls... oh the list goes on and on! It was so hard to decide what all to try. 

I was in the shop toward the end of the day so you'd think the goodies would be closer to "day old" then "fresh from the oven". One bite of my brownie and that idea went right out the window! I put the donuts and cupcake in the fridge for morning's breakfast, per their instructions if I wasn't going to eat it all right away. The salted caramel donut (pictured above) was the best donut I've ever tasted in my life the next morning! And I don't mean in the last 6 years of being gluten-free... I am talking of all my 35 years on this earth!
Picture
Picture
Picture
OK I was in a hurry to shove one of these in my mouth and it was nighttime and I didn't do a "fancy food" photograph... don't let that deter you from stopping in and tasting one of these lovelies for yourself!

It was humorous, in my research of gluten-free dining options at Disney, I had run across some posts that people walk into the bakery, see that everything is vegan and gluten-free (many items are dairy-free/egg-free/low-sugar/etc as well) and walk out because they don't think the baked goods are any good. This exact thing happened twice in the 10-15 minutes I and the rest of the food-allergy crowd stood drooling over the glass cases. Haha, they don't know what they're missing out on - more for me!

Gasparilla's Grill at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort

Picture
Gluten-free Mickey Mouse waffles. With bacon. Prepared before my very eyes by a manager, wearing fresh gloves, at a separate waffle-maker in a different part of the kitchen from the rest of the cafeteria-style line. Words cannot express how light and fluffy these little faces were, smothered in syrup. Tears of joy may have hovered in my eyes as I bit into them!

Sassagoula Floatworks at Disney's Port Orleans - French Quarter

Picture
Perfect little powdered sugar-covered, piping hot, fresh-from-the-dedicated-fryer clouds ... these beignets were A.M.A.Z.I.N.G!!!! I took three buses and a boat to get these and come back to my resort. Totally worth the effort! I honestly had powered sugar from my head to my toes after sinking my teeth into these bad boys... so good!

Cookes of Dublin at Downtown Disney

Picture
This fish 'n chips was hands down my favorite meal of the trip - I had been craving it since I saw a post about it online in my pre-travel research. The portions were huge (that piece of fish is bigger than my hand!) and everything was served fresh and hot, right out of the dedicated fryer. I honestly forgot tartar sauce or ketchup when I walked away from the counter and found a seat outside (where you can enjoy the Irish singers and dancers) and the meal was so tasty that I didn't even miss the condiments!

Discovery Island Kiosk at Animal Kingdom

Picture
This little gem of a food allergy-friendly kiosk is an oasis in the Discovery Island wilderness! I had rushed to Animal Kingdom to enjoy the last few hours of the day in the park, but had not eaten lunch and needed to hurry to make my FastPass+ reservations. This place is full of gluten-free goodies including bagels, muffins, donuts, chips, fruit, even beer! It's right before you head over the bridge to Africa. I grabbed a muffin on my way to my adventures, just enough to tide me over until I found a little more time to relax.

Be Our Guest at Magic Kingdom

Picture
We had special lunch reservations and selected our menu ahead of time so that we were served quickly at Be Our Guest for our first day.

This braised pork was on the list of gluten-free options and was better than your mama's homemade pot roast! A little heavy for walking around in 80-degree weather, but full of flavor, with great mashed potatoes and veggies on the side.
Picture
For dessert, I'd heard the Grey Stuff is delicious (just ask the dishes!) but alas, it's NOT gluten free... that's fine by me because this gluten-free lemon-filled cream puff was the perfect ending to the meal - light and fluffy, not overly citrus-y, with a dollop of cream and fresh raspberry on top, plus a tiny chocolate square almost too pretty to eat (but of course, I devoured it all!)

Teppan Edo in the World Showcase at Epcot

Picture
I've had mixed experiences with dining in hibachi style restaurants in the past (from a fabulous experience at Benihana's in Las Vegas to a terrible New Year's Eve run-out-the-door-crying-and-didn't-get-to-eat-anything situation with a local place where they barely speak English) so I was a tiny bit hesitant when my friend told me about our reservations at their favorite place, Teppan Edo. But take a deep breath - it's Disney so we're good!

Right away, the waitress had noted the reservation remarks and asked who had the gluten/wheat allergy and, from my end of the table, I raised my hand. She immediately marked a giant "A" on her chart indicating my seat and told me that a manager would be right out. Moments later, a lovely woman in a suit came and offered her greetings, noted that I would have rice and veggies prepared separately instead of the noodles, and that all my meal's items would be cooked on the grill and served first. They brought out Kikkoman's Gluten-Free Soy Sauce as well for me.

The chef was awesome and put on a great performance, as well as preparing a terrific and delicious meal. The only other sauce I could safely eat was the "yum yum" sauce... there's a very good reason for it's name - I went through 2 of the 3 "bowls" I was given with my meal!


I ate every last bite of the steak, shrimp, veggies, and rice, becoming quite a good chopsticks operator!
0 Comments

Play: Walt Disney World, Orlando FL

5/8/2015

0 Comments

 
It's been a whirlwind few months and I apologize for my blog getting put on the back burner.

I literally just got home from an AMAZING trip to Disneyworld - my very first trip to Disney EVER! I did shed some tears when it was time to go home... it truly was magical and I can't wait to go back! There was still so much left to do and see, food to eat, and places to stay. I will greatly miss the warm Florida sunshine too!

Here is my Top 10 list of things EVERYONE should do at Walt Disney World - please be sure to add your favorites in the comments below!
Picture
Photo Pass cast members are happy to shoot you... er, take your photos!
10. Get the Memory Maker package (Photo Pass) - it is absolutely worth the opportunity to have professional photographs, along with some video clips, to remember your trip. You can download and use them - unlimited - and you can add special features for some of the poses the Cast Members will suggest for you. I felt like I was able to make up for my terribly dorky senior photos, let alone capture the great memories from this adventure.

9. Hang out with Gaston near his tavern in Magic Kingdom and just watch his witty interactions with guests - this dude is completely full of himself and HILARIOUS! Get your autograph books handy to meet Mickey & Minnie, the princesses, and all their friends too - the characters are happy to meet one and all! (For "Frozen" fans, be sure to either get your FastPass+ or arrive at the Magic Kingdom gates before 7:30am and walk swiftly - no running - along Main Street USA, through Cinderella Castle, around Prince Charming's Regal Carousel, and straight into the meet & greet line for Anna and Elsa to avoid hour-plus long lines!)
Picture
Gaston was one of the BEST characters to interact with - he has one witty comment after another!

Picture
The Loch Ness monster in Lake Buena Vista at Downtown Disney - made entirely of LEGO blocks!

8. Shop at Downtown Disney, check out the LEGO creations around, and take an Amphicar boat ride at The Boathouse or a hot air balloon ride! Try some great food too - I would also highly recommend getting a Disney Dining Plan (I did NOT on this trip and the prices of some meals made my credit card cringe!) I will have another list with my favorite gluten-free findings posted shortly!

Picture
Sing along as you "swim" past the brilliant colors of "Under the Sea"!
7. Go "underwater" without getting your hair wet for the "Under the Sea" ride with Ariel's crew in Magic Kingdom... as well as "Turtle Talk with Crush" at Epcot (I am still trying to figure out how they do it, dude!)

Picture
6. Check out the West Wing at Be Our Guest in Magic Kingdom and see the Beast's mystical enchanted Rose - as my friend Rachel stated: "Everyone who grew up in the '90s has to see this!" (Note: Get up close and turn off your flash for the best photographs!)

Picture
5. Explore "Living with the Land" at Epcot and see some awesome techniques they are experimenting with to grow food in some crazy ways - many are harvested to be served in the Disney restaurants around the parks!

Picture
Picture
4. Eat and drink your way around the World Showcase at Epcot. (We had a fabulous "dinner & show" at the Teppan Edo hibachi restaurant - so fun and delicious!) !The park was beautifully adorned with the flowers and topiaries of the International Flower & Garden Festival during my visit (early May 2015), which added some extra vibrant pixie dust and fragrance. Be sure to stop by The Kunstarbeit In Kristall in Germany for your sparkly crystal tiaras and beer stein souvenirs - they'll even ship your fragile items home for a very reasonable flat fee.
Picture
Picture

Picture
3. See "Finding Nemo - The Musical" at Animal Kingdom - this colorful performance is entertaining and breath-taking for the whole family!

Picture
2. Go on the Kilimanjaro Safaris tour at Animal Kingdom, especially closer to the end of the day's schedule. Get your cameras ready - the wildlife sightings are incredible!

Picture
1. Get to Magic Kingdom before 8:30pm and park yourself in front of Cinderella Castle to get a prime seat along the parade route edges (score a FastPass+ preferred seating area if you can!) for the evening's Mickey's Electrical Parade and Wishes fireworks show! 


Not a night owl? During the day, around mid-afternoon, you can also find a spot along the "Move It! Shake It! Dance & Play It! Street Party" parade route through Adventureland and Main Street USA in the Magic Kingdom. The "Fantasmic" show at Hollywood Studios is also a great lights, water, and fireworks show for later evening entertainment!)


Again, this was my very first visit and there are still many things on my list for the next time... open to suggestions from others on what they love too! (Also note that my stomach doesn't handle rollercoaster style rides, so I did only the "Any Height" rides!)
0 Comments

Fly/Shuteye: Minute Suites - The Traveler's Retreat, Dallas TX, Atlanta GA, Philadelphia PA

2/7/2015

0 Comments

 
In the expansive state of Texas, getting between points A and B is typically measured by time, not distance. This seems quite fitting for the great airport concept that I recently discovered, aptly named Minute Suites®: The Traveler's Retreat.
Picture
Last winter, I would have wholeheartedly taken advantage of this service on an overnight layover in Dallas. I flew into the airport around 10pm, but my morning flight wasn't until 6am. I wasn't sure I wanted to sleep in the airport, knowing I wouldn't rest well with the anxiety of keeping my bags safe and secure. So I booked a hotel night stay nearby. Standing outside in the cold, I waited almost an hour for my shuttle bus to the hotel and once I arrived, I realized that my shuttle back to the airport would be at 3am... I only had 4 hours to rest and freshen up! I was afraid of oversleeping so I slept lightly for about 2 hours before giving up and got ready for the day ahead. It was a total waste of time and money.

Have you dealt with a similar travel scenario? Minute Suites® offers the perfect solution!

Launched in Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) in 2009 with 5 suites, the concept spread to Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) in 2011 with 13 suites, and then to Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) in 2013 with 10 suites, 2 shower facilities, and on-site laundry. All Minute Suites® locations are within the airports, past TSA security. Because these were the airports I flew in and out of for my recent southern road trip, I had the pleasure of touring both their facilities in both Dallas and Atlanta.
Picture
Based on the importance of naps, specifically in an airport setting, Minute Suites was founded to provide a place for weary travelers to recharge during hectic travel schedules. Grab a copy of "Take a Nap! Change a Life" from the front reception area or take advantage of their Nap26 program - a soundbeat technology developed by NASA to help you get the equivalent of 3 hours' worth of restful sleep in just 26 minutes. (This use of this CD is complimentary with your Minute Suites stay.)

In the bustling international Terminal D of the Dallas-Forth Worth International Airport (DFW), near Gate D23, you can find a private space to relax, rest, and rejuvenate. Whether you stay for an hour or overnight, you will find these cozy soundproof Suites offer a peaceful oasis dedicated to making you comfortable.
Picture
With themed names to fit each location - such as Alamo, Lonestar, Rodeo, and Cowboy - each Suite comes with a comfortable sofa daybed, as well as a pull-out trundle bed to allow for a second guest. Pillows and luxuriously soft blankets are provided (these are sanitized between each guest's stay). You can shut and lock your Suite door, instantly surrounded by beautiful silence. Even in the Suite closest to the main terminal corridor, you can't hear anything going on outside your door. There are controls for lights, temperature, and white noise that your friendly guest attendant can help you set to fit your personal comfort level.
Picture
On one wall of the Suite is a large-screen monitor and small desk and chair. Check your flight status, send a few emails, relax with a Netflix movie, or print off notes for your upcoming meeting. 

(Netflix and WiFi are complimentary at all Minute Suites locations. There is a small fee for printing, though you can get up to 3 free pages with a Suite rental - ask your guest attendant for details.)

Some business travelers rent a Suite for an hour or two so they can have a quiet place to conduct business calls. No one likes to deal with the loud hum of chatter in an airport's gate waiting area, especially when discussing confidential or private matters.
Picture
Looking to freshen up? Two spacious spa-like bathrooms with accessible shower facilities are available to rent in 30-minute increments at the Dallas location. Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, fresh towels, and hairdryer are provided for guests. One of the bathrooms is adjacent to the large Alamo Suite and the two rooms can be rented together for families to utilize the full facilities.
Picture
When you take a break at Minute Suites®, you can schedule a personal "wake up knock" from the guest attendant or set the alarm clock, so you do not have to worry about oversleeping and missing your next flight.

The majority of staff employed by Minutes Suites® are local college students pursuing hospitality and management degrees. Nick Lutringer, the general manager at the Dallas location, has a hospitality management degree and Heaven Marshall, the supervisor at the Atlanta location, is a recent graduate from Georgia State University. Both are eager to welcome new and returning guests for their stay at Minute Suites®. Thank you for providing such wonderful southern hospitality, Nick and Heaven!

Picture
The five Suites at the Atlanta location can be found near Gate B15. 

This original Minute Suites® location offers a large selection of travel amenities, sleep aids and other over-the-counter medications to help make your airport stay more comfortable.

Picture
The largest Minute Suites® location can be found in Philadelphia's Terminal A-B Link and offers 13 suites and 2 workstation cubicles for rent.
The company plans to expand to 5 more airports in the next year - watch for a Minute Suites® the next time you have a layover at the airport!
0 Comments

Play: Austin TX

2/1/2015

0 Comments

 
Austin greeted us with a warm, sunny, 70-degree January weekend - quite different from the cold and snow that we left at home in Milwaukee. It's amazing what some sunshine can do to transform a person's mood and soul!
Picture
FULL DISCLOSURE: Admittedly, I have always had a "thing" for Capitol buildings. I grew up in Madison WI, which boasts a beautiful replica of the nation's Capitol in DC. (Fun fact: It is ALMOST as large, with each wing just 1" shorter than the original!) As an impressionable 3rd grader, touring that grandiose building hits you straight in the heart, as you gaze up at the dome in awe. My love only grew when I came back to Madison for college a decade later, where the campus is nestled in the shadow of the Capitol Square. I even took a shortcut through the gorgeous building every day when my senior internship and apartment were on direct opposite corners of the Square.
Picture
Picture
Texas is one of the more impressive Capitol buildings I have visited - I would rank it in my Top 5 (I've seen a lot!) Wandering the grounds, you will find gorgeous sculptures, including a miniature Statue of Liberty, a below-ground plaza, as well as dedications to the Pioneer Woman and Pearl Harbor survivors.

Inside, Texas dresses to impress. From doorknobs to hinges, from the mosaic tile floors to the star in the top of the dome, there are so many great details to admire as you wander the halls. 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Austin offers a laid-back buzz of energy for locals and tourists alike. On the glorious Sunday afternoon we spent in town, everyone and their dogs hit the park - Zilker Park, to be exact. Trails meander between the large open green space and the Colorado River, welcoming walkers, runners, dogs, bikes, and more. Kayaks float alongside ducks and turtles, while heron and double-crested cormorants watch from the shores. The Zilker Zephyr, a miniature green train transports excited families around the park's perimeter, slowing down as it goes under the Barton Springs bridge. Kids of all ages played games, while some couples relaxed on blankets with their books. Dogs ran around and happily played fetch. All with a fantastic view of the downtown Austin skyline. 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Another spot for a little workout and great views is Covert Park at Mount Bonnell. Take advantage of the natural stairs from the lower entrance and climb up to the summit. From the edge of the path, there are many open spots to look out over the Colorado River and the expensive homes with manicured lawns along its banks below. Just stay behind the barriers - it's a long way down!
Picture
 There's a platform at the top where you can see the skyline of downtown Austin to the left and the river to the right. Take the stairs down from this end of the trail to the parking area below, a quicker route than the way up. 
Picture
0 Comments
<<Previous

    Author

    K, World Traveler

    Archives

    September 2018
    January 2018
    December 2017
    April 2017
    October 2016
    August 2016
    September 2015
    August 2015
    July 2015
    May 2015
    February 2015
    January 2015

    Categories

    All
    About Me
    Airport
    Animals
    Aquarium
    Architecture
    Atlanta
    Austin
    BBQ
    Carolinas
    Charlotte
    Clearwater
    Dallas
    Dinosaurs
    Disney
    Disneyworld
    Eat
    Epcot
    Family Fun
    Farmer's Market
    Farm To Table
    Festivals
    Find Your Path
    Florida
    Fly
    Food Truck
    Forts
    Free Things To Do
    Gluten Free
    Grits
    Have A Seat
    History
    Italian
    Largo
    Layover Connections
    Lions & Tigers
    Magic
    Milwaukee
    Minute Suites
    Mitchell Park Domes
    Museums
    New Chapters
    New Orleans
    Nonprofit
    North Carolina
    Orlando
    Paleo
    Parks
    Pasta
    Philadelphia
    Pirates
    Play
    Playlist
    Rainy Day Fun
    Road Trip
    Seafood
    Shop
    Shuteye
    Southern Food
    State Capitol
    St Augustine
    Stay
    St Pete
    St Petersburg
    Sushi
    Sustainable Seafood
    Tampa
    Texas
    Theme Parks
    Third Ward
    Trails
    Travel
    Walt Disney World
    Wisconsin

    RSS Feed

Powered by Create your own unique website with customizable templates.