We feel a need, to be honest, however – Orlando is hot in the summer. Please dress your dad accordingly. Don’t worry – he’ll love this too! Cargo shorts – what else needs to be said? You know they’re still tucked away in his closet somewhere, no matter how much fashion trends object. All those pockets – perfect for a theme-park visit! And what about fanny-packs? According to Orlando theme park fashion, they never went out of style! As a matter of fact – a trip to Orlando is a vacation from fashion altogether. Get comfy and you’ll blend in with the locals. Here, the flip-flop is our state shoe, unofficially perhaps, but true.

Another Orlando fashion must-have – the rain poncho! Tightly packed to fit into your fanny pack, these are sold in theme parks everywhere. Why do we love them so? In the heat of the day, thunderstorms roll by in the summer, briefly, to cool things down. Yes, during the storm you’ll need to take cover, but after that, the sun resumes, and so does the fun!

When tending to a dad’s wish list, choosing the right vacation rental is an important aspect of an Orlando stay any time of the year. Did you know we offer properties with themed rooms? Bedrooms, theater rooms, game rooms, decked-out in custom decor from his favorite galaxy far, far away, or perhaps he has an inner wizard waiting to teleport, (we recommend using our booking engine to expedite the teleportation process.) When we speak of game rooms, there’s more to the word than gaming consoles and foosball – many game rooms are full-blown arcade rooms. And the movie theaters? How about reclining movie seats with cupholders and projector screens? If you’re looking to bring out the inner child during your vacation, whether it’s dad’s or anyone else’s, contact our reservations team to find a great home for you and your friends and family.

The post Orlando This Summer 2021 appeared first on Reunion Vacation Homes.

The Story Behind Blizzard Beach

Legend has it there was a freak snowstorm at the park’s very location on January 11, 1977. Due to this supposed storm, Floridians quickly built a ski lift and laid the foundation for the resort around the snow. But alas, the snow turned into slush in the Florida sun and continues to melt to this very day. The newly established ski resort became waterlogged, but instead of abandoning the establishment, investors witnessed the park’s potential as a roaring blue alligator slid down the mountain and landed with a joyous splash. The Florida-style beach chair lifts, with beach umbrellas and all, now take visitors up the mountain not to ski, but to water slide. And the blue gator? He was hired as the park’s mascot, naturally!

Just like you would expect at a ski slope, you can choose different colored paths down the mountain that guides new and experienced visitors.

Green Slope

This is where you find the park’s flagship attraction, the Summit Plummet, one of the tallest and fastest waterslides in the world. Starting with a 120 ft. near-vertical drop, it accelerates brave thrill-seekers up to 65 mph. An optional 90 ft. tall water slide, the Slush Gusher, reaches up to 35 mph. For something family-friendly, go white-water rafting at Teamboat Springs past a twisting river of rushing waterfalls.

Purple Slope

Here you can race down the Downhill Double Dipper, side-by-side racing tube slides. Lie on your tummy and go down one of three flumes on a mat at Snow Stormers, or, the Toboggan Racers, an 8-lane water slide option using the same mat-and-tummy technique.

Red Slope

The Runoff Rapids is a multi-slide attraction of differing water slides with innertubes. Two of the slides are open and one is enclosed, and they take you down twisting and turning flumes.

Beyond the Slopes

All that constantly melting snow has to go somewhere. Enjoy the Melt-Away Bay wave pool at the base of Mount Gushmore, or travel down the Cross Country Creek lazy river. The Ski Patrol Training Camp is for pre-teens and contains the Leisure Pool and the Fahrenheit Drops that rope drop kids into an 8.5 ft. deep pool. You end up in the same pool via Freezin’ Pipe Springs body slide, and the wide-open inner tube slide, Cool Runners, also feeds from the perpetually melting snow at the park. Tike’s Peak was created for kids under 48 inches with scaled-down versions of the Blizzard Beach attractions.

Where to go for Frostbites

Have a light Avalunch for a snack, or visit Frostbite Freddie’s Bar. The Lottawatta Lodge offers covered outdoor seating, and the Polar Pub is a full bar for adults. I. C. Expeditions offers ice-cream and other desserts, and the Cooling Hut, light snacks, and refreshments.

Other Water Park Knowables

Pick-up fancy gifts at the Shade Shack, like jewelry and pearls, or visit the main merchandise store, The Beach Haus, or Snowless Joe’s for lockers, towels, lifejackets, souvenirs, swimwear, footwear, etc.

Retire in comfort after your aquatic adventures at a private rental vacation home in the nearby area. Give our reservations team a call for great recommendations that fit your needs.

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As we all proceed into 2021 with caution we’re all hoping for a brighter year. In Florida, we’re determined to make it awesome, and you are invited! With the sun as our trusted companion, the water parks are opening from their seasonal slumber with a promise to thrill and chill.

As you consider your next aquatic adventure, pay attention to all the options offered. Paying a little extra can really be worthwhile whether it affords your family a private cabana or awe-inspiring excursions. Also, be careful judging pricing at-a-glance when you compare parks as rates include, or exclude, very different privileges. For example, Discovery Cove may look pricey, but packages are all-inclusive with unlimited food & drinks along with the opportunity of animal encounters.

Ready? Let’s Hit the Waves!

Walt Disney World Water Parks:
Typhoon Lagoon – Remains closed at this time.
Blizzard Beach – Current plan to reopen on March 7, 2021.
Blizzard Beach is Florida’s idea of a ski resort with added whimsical twists, Orlando-style!

Universal’s Volcano Bay – Reopens on February 27th, 2021.
Volcan Bay is a fairly new park that replaced Wet ‘n Wild in 2017.

SeaWorld Water Parks:
Aquatica – Open!
Aquatica offers thrill rides and relaxation themed to the southern Pacific.
Discovery Cove – Open!
Discovery Cove is not a traditional water park – this is where you can swim with dolphins and encounter other aquatic & aerial animal life.
Adventure Island in Tampa Bush Gardens – Reopens March 6th.
Adventure Island is located in Tampa and has been open for 40 impressive years. A traditional water park only by Florida high standards, this is a place that never runs out of fun.

Legoland Water Park – Open!
The Legoland Water Park is focused on kids and their families, and of course – creativity!

Island H2O Water Park – Reopens March 13th.
Island H2O recently opened at the newly built Margaritaville Resort in Orlando and is the first of its kind as themed around social media. Experience and share!

Please make sure to look up current operations for any park you plan to visit ahead of time. Special considerations and reservations may be necessary.

Have Fun!

The post Are You Ready To Hit The Water Parks This Year? appeared first on Reunion Vacation Homes.

Last week we explored what Disney World, Universal Studios Orlando, and SeaWorld Orlando are up to this holiday season. This week we’d like to share additional holiday gems happening in Orlando this year – the town that always delivers fun, excitement, and entertainment – and during the holidays, the spirit of the season!

Legoland

Head on over to Legoland with your kids and be immersed with holiday cheer this year. Have a jolly time enjoying seasonal shows, yummy treats, and twinkling lights. Each event has been modified for your safety with plenty of spacing, accommodating cherished character interactions to remain dear.
Admire all your holiday favorites built in LEGO® like LEGO® Sleigh & Reindeer, LEGO® Santa and Reindeer, and the LEGO® Snowman. Meet LEGO holiday characters: the Gingerbread Man, Santa, Unikitty, Toy Soldier, and more! Interactive activities include a post office visit to write Santa a wish list, and, of course, to help build LEGO toys. See what’s up with Santa’s elves in The Very Merry Mix Up show. You can even attend a Kid’s New Year’s Party, but make sure to visit celebrationtowncenter.comLegoland.com/Florida to find out about tickets and safety guidelines before you go.

Bok Tower Gardens

Peace on Earth is a holiday celebration at Bok Tower Gardens with an emphasis on nature that can be enjoyed from November 27th through January 3rd. To feel the spirit of the Holidays outdoors you can pick up a Critter Christmas Guide and find forest friends. After completing the hunt you can present the guide for a treat at The Shop at Bok. In-person events include themed pavilion concerts surrounded by garden beauty.
All visitors are required to wear masks in interior spaces and when interacting with staff. Visit boktowergardens.org for more details and to find the schedule for in-person events.

Holidays at Old Town

Old Town Kissimmee is a great place to visit all year round, but the holiday spirit makes everything more festive. Holiday events are held every weekend night from November 29th to December 25th. The Old Town creates that classic all-American holiday experience that triggers dear memories for so many. Stroll the brick-paved streets lined with festive decorations, the colorful twinkle of lights, a traditional Christmas Tree, and live music. This is also a great place to go Christmas shopping!

Visit myoldtownusa.com to find out more about ongoing events and activities.

Celebration Town Center

The town of Celebration was originally developed by The Walt Disney Company, and its vintage throwback to traditional America makes it the perfect place for Holiday displays. At this year’s Celebration’s Winter Wonderland there will be, as per tradition, “snowing” and “ice-skating”. Enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, light shows, and train rides. Shop at the Market Street, or sit down for a hot cup of cocoa. Marvel at the Christmas Tree view and town holiday decorations while waiting for Santa to visit.

Entry and parking are free. Mask-wearing and social distancing expected. Make sure to visit celebrationtowncenter.com for more tips and details.

The post Orlando Holiday Happenings, 2020 Part 2 – So Much More to Do appeared first on Reunion Vacation Homes.

Orlando is always an amazing place to visit during the holidays. This year has been challenging for all of us, but Orlandoans do not give up – we adapt and make lemonade! We’re surrounded by citrus orchards after all, and we know how to make life sweet!
Making it our business to provide an excellent experience for those who seek out our local attractions, O-Town has been stepping it up. Safety and enjoyment have always been held to high standards. Make sure that you uphold your end of the bargain to optimize your experience this joyful season.

So what’s going on?

Let’s start with the big ones

Universal Orlando

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ will be decked-out with cozy holiday decor. You can visit Diagon Alley™ at Universal Studios Florida and Hogsmeade™ in Universal’s Islands of Adventure for special holiday merchandise, hot Butter Beer™, and see performances by Celestina Warbeck and The Frog Choir.
A brand new walk-through experience of the Macy’s balloons and Christmas floats has been created at Universal Studios this year. Holiday Characters will make appearances and give Holiday cheer throughout the season, and if you love to celebrate Grinchmas, head on over to Seuss Landing in Islands of Adventure. Book separately and join the new guided Universal’s Holiday Tour and meet the Grinch himself along with other holiday highlight features at the parks.
If you’re a scavenger, join the Holiday Tree Hunte, or give yourself sweet treats on the new Holiday Treat Trail. Visit UniversalOrlando.com for details.

SeaWorld

SeaWorld transforms into a winter wonderland with more than 3 million beautiful lights. Meet Rudolph, experience the ice-skating extravaganza Winter Wonderland on Ice, or stroll through the Sea of Trees, filled with lights and holiday music.
If all fails, Clyde and Seamore will save the holidays in their Sea Lion High: The Christmas Special. Visit SeaWorld.com/Orlando to find out more.

Walt Disney World

Couple the Happiest Place on Earth with the Happiest Season of All and you can’t go wrong! At the Magic Kingdom, Cinderella’s Castle will have your senses spellbound with cheerful light projections. Be on the lookout for Santa and Mickey sightings, enjoy the Holiday Trolley Barber Quartet, or feel the holiday spirit of Toy Soldiers in Main Street Philharmonic, all while being surrounded by seasonal decor and sweet treats.
Take the sweet Holiday Cookie Stroll around the world at Epcot and be on the lookout for Mickey and Friends dressed in their finest. Watch Queen Anna and Elsa as they journey from country to country, or have a blast during Olaf’s Holiday Tradition Expedition Scavenger Hunt. The JAMMitors will rock the Mill Stage at the Canada Pavilion, and at the World Showcase, you can be entertained with traditional Christmas tunes in soulful R&B and gospel. The America Gardens Theatre will have a rotating lineup of performing Voices of the Season.
At Disney’s Animal Kingdom there will be festive Flotillas sailing down the Discovery River. Santa Claus himself will rock to the jolly beat of a holiday soundtrack, while Donald Duck and Friends will jingle to holiday tunes. Chip & Dale will groove through the jungle while Mickey and Friends go on a holiday safari. Don’t forget to check out the Tree of Life Awakening – Holiday Edition.
Disney Springs’ streets are lined with shops, restaurants, bars, and entertainment. You’ll find festive trees everywhere, Santa and Mrs. Claus greeting you from a pontoon boat in Lake Buena Vista, Holiday Scavenger Hunt, Snowflake Skaters, Toy Soldier stilt walkers, DJs, snow flurries – holiday spirit everywhere!
But wait, there’s so much more! Legoland, Old Town Kissimmee, Celebration, Bok Tower Gardens, Stetson Christmas Spectacular, Festival of Trees – tune in for more Orlando holiday ideas next week!

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When you hear the word Condo, associations vary greatly per location. If we add Florida, as in Florida Condos, our mental imagery turns to sunny surroundings with open landscapes, great amenities, and spectacular views. If we speak of Florida Orlando Condos, you can add additional perks such as Theme Parks, neverending entertainment, and attractions.
Now that we’ve settled the flavor of Florida Orlando Condos, we’d like to give you three big reasons to enjoy your condo stay.

1. Prices right now are exceptional! Not only have nightly rates fallen and promos been added, now you can stay even longer for cheaper with mid-term monthly rates. That’s right, you can rent guilt-free and have extra money over for your Orlando adventures. We’ve all put vacation plans off for too long this year. Let’s do this!
2. Magical Dining! If you haven’t heard of this annual happening you are in for a treat, literally. The event runs from August 28 through October 4 this year, and while making a reservation is suggested, you are welcome to walk in and enjoy the same menu. So what is the Orlando Magical Dining? Enjoy three-course dinners at some of Orlando’s best restaurants for a set price of only $35/person. What are you in the mood for? Steak & Seafood? Spanish & Portuguese Cuisine? Italian? Japanese? VisitOrlando.com to see the list of participating restaurants and to learn of additional details.
3. You can have a Florida Staycation without the hassle and inconvenience that comes with air travel and hotel rooms. Orlando resort condos are equipped with all that you need to feel at home: washer & dryer, Iron & ironing board, fully equipped kitchen, WiFi…balcony, or porch space with great golf views as you sip your morning cup of Joe.

Never Ending Reasons to Visit Orlando

When it comes to visiting Orlando the reasons exceed three of course. The whole area is peppered with discounts and special offers right now, both for Florida Residents and for those of you who are on standby, waiting for travel to resume. Right now Universal Orlando gives you 3 months free when you purchase any pass. If you are a Florida resident you can buy a one-day ticket and visit every day through December 24 for free – no blockout dates. The Epcot Food & Wine Festival is ongoing right now and Florida residents can get a 2-day Florida Resident Disney Magic Flex ticket for $130. SeaWorld offers annual passes for as low as 11.50/month.
Need more convincing? How about Gatorland? Legoland? The Crayola Experience? Fun Spot America? Horseback Safari? iDrive 360? (Former Orlando Eye) I-Drive attractions? Kelly Park spring tubing? Madame Tussauds? Ocala National Forest? Sea Life Orlando? Skeletons? The Mad Cow Theatre? Wonderworks? Go Golfing? Airboat Tour? Hot Air Balloon Ride? Dinner Show?
The list goes on and on. Be sure to follow our blog for special spotlight articles. For now, call our reservations team so they can help you find your next Orlando home.

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What better place to have a flexcation? Floridians and certainly Orlandoans often forget how privileged they are – living in a place others dream of visiting. We’re not just talking about Disney World, Universal, and SeaWorld here, the area offers gazillions of things to do, and Florida Resident discounts can be found for plenty of attractions. Without the ability to travel this year, stay in Florida for a fabulous Florida Flexcation.

Natural Gems

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If you’ve never lived anywhere else and are a Florida Native, you may not realize that Florida is also home to many unique features found in few places on the globe. One of these features is the bioluminescent waters around Titusville and Merritt Island. Kayaking and Rafting tours are available and besides bioluminescence, you might run into a few other Florida natives such as dolphins and manatees depending on which tour you choose. There are a few locations to choose from: Indian River, Banana River, and Mosquito Lagoon, about an hour from Orlando and 1 1/4 hours from the Disney area and surrounding resorts.
Visit one of Florida’s many public parks for recreational activity away from the crowds. Go hiking, biking, canoeing, river boating, or go swimming in the natural Florida springs. Take in the wildlife around you – see what you can spot! Go birdwatching. Take a peaceful promenade in a beautiful garden. Make sure to visit floridastateparks.org to find out what the open hours are and if there is an entrance fee.

Florida Slexcation with Style

Orlando is a constant travel destination for Floridians – it’s that “sure thing” if you’re looking for fun with a line-up of seemingly never-ending attractions. But thrills and entertainment are not all Floridians are looking for when they head on over to O-Town; when on vacation, they want to escape all of the mundane and experience the extraordinary in every aspect – they want an upgrade in their lifestyle, an upgrade in their living accommodations. And, they want to flaunt it on Instagram!
Does it sound like we’re trying to convince you to have a Floridian Flexcation in one of our luxury homes? Yes, this is what we are suggesting, with confidence. Have your adventure during the day, and come home to beauty and comfort in a villa a short drive from all the major attractions, Walt Disney World in particular. Some of our properties are only a few miles away.

Stay in Florida – Have a Floridian Staycation!

So, stay in Florida this fall – stay with us! September is the perfect time if you are looking to relax when everything is quieter and you can take advantage of our great promos. If you’re looking to book a beautiful home for the Holidays, don’t wait! Book now before the good ones are all taken.
We’ll see you soon!

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The number of people working from home has increased dramatically with the onset of the pandemic. Working from home was already trending and expected to be a major socioeconomic determinator of our future, so all we’ve done is to welcome this change a bit sooner, right?

The good news is…

Home is wherever you lay your hat. There is no need to bunker down in your home all alone. You can grab your laptop and work from anywhere, and what many are discovering is that they can live a hybrid lifestyle where work and vacation coexist.
Picture this: At 5 PM you close your laptop and step out onto a pool deck bathed in warm sunlight. Without the need to commute you’ve already earned an hour or two of free leisure time. Instead of fighting rush hour you’re soaking in the spillover spa or doing slow laps in the pool of a Florida Vacation Homes rental. What a fabulous choice!

Just because you’re working from home doesn’t mean you have to work from home!

Free WiFi, a fully equipped kitchen, and a laundry room are the bare necessities if you are moving your home office to your home-away-from-home-office. This is all included in every Florida Vacation Home. Additional options such as a private pool with spillover spa, home theater, home arcade/game room, and themed bedrooms are available with larger homes.

Condo, Villa, or Mansion?

You will have resort amenities just the same. Is it time for lunch? Take a break and stroll down to the resort cafe or restaurant. Ah! Resort life! You can bring your laptop to the clubhouse and finish the workday right there. The reward for your day’s work can be found at the Tiki Bar.

The post Your Poolside Office appeared first on Reunion Vacation Homes.

Reunion Resort is famed for its Signature Golf Courses, onsite bars and restaurants, water park, a multitude of swimming pools to choose from, nature trails, onsite spa, and many other amenities such as tennis courts, a fitness center, bike rental, and kids activities. In short – you don’t need to leave the resort to experience plenty of leisurely activities and dining. Now the resort will offer even more to do. The latest club add-on is an onsite miniature golf course.

Mini-Golf for the Entire Family

Who doesn’t love mini-golf? It’s suited for all – young, old, small, and tall. We putt, we laugh, hanging out together. The winner treats everyone to ice-cream, right? It’s the perfect family activity. With obstacles such as tunnels, tubes, ramps, creatively structured to challenge your abilities, no course is exactly the same.
Getting its start at the turn of the twentieth century, minigolf has gained popularity and is now a competitive game accessed by anyone anytime. While the Orlando area has no shortage of this pastime, guests* vacationing in Reunion Resort will now have the convenience of enjoying a game of putt-putt without leaving the resort.
Hours of Operation are as follows:
Monday/Tuesday – Closed
Wednesday-Sunday – 12 PM to 9 PM
Price:
Platinum Members: Complimentary
Gold Members, Extended Family Members, Co-owners, and Accompanied Guests of Members:
$12 adults (13 years and older)
$6 kids (4-12 years old)
Kids 0-3 years old – Complimentary
All Members and Guests must stop in the Tennis Shop to purchase a round on the course and to obtain the equipment to play.
Enjoy this new Club Amenity!
* Only available to guests who are staying in a Reunion Resort Property with a resort membership.
** While mini golf is an excellent outdoor sport in the fresh air, don’t forget to stay safe, social distance, and wear your mask. Don’t rely solely on the resort to sanitize all equipment – double up with your own sanitizer.

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Florida is entering phase 2 in re-opening its businesses after mandatory closings due to COVID-19. An executive order by Florida Governor Desantis and his team of professional advisors guide the state into a “Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step.” plan for a Florida recovery. This plan not only outlines business practices such as limiting capacity to 50% and keeping a sanitized environment, but it also relies on individual responsibility. Yes, it’s true – staying safe and well is largely within your own control, and this is good. You’ve already made a wise choice to book a vacation home instead of staying at a hotel and thus distancing yourself from unnecessary crowds, so let’s continue making smart choices and have some Florida Fun!

Highly Recommended – Discovery Cove

Discovery Cove will open June 11th – only days away! Why is this a top recommendation? Discovery Cove is a unique park because it always limits attendance to avoid a crowded park. The park was already designed to give guests privacy and space, so social distancing was never a problem. Add to this the benefit of natural cleanliness from the activities mostly taking place in the water, (something all water parks share of course.) Close encounters are not with human strangers, but with the park animals – Dolphins, Rays, Sharks, Exotic Birds, Otters, and Tropical Fish. Make sure to check out the ticket packages offered and note that some of the animal meet-and-greets have been modified as they re-introduce guests into the park. Many aspects of the experience are add-ons for a fee, and you’ll need to book tickets ahead of time. That being said, this is one of the Orlando attractions well worth the full experience. For most visitors, the Discovery Cove offers once-in-a-lifetime activities that translate into some of the most cherished memories.

Some of the Attractions Open & Opening in Orlando:

• Magic Kingdom July 11
• Animal Kingdom July 11
• Epcot July 15
• Hollywood Studios July 15
• Universal Studios June 5
• Islands of Adventure June 5
• Volcano Bay Open!
• Blizzard Beach – Open!
• SeaWorld – June 11
• Discovery Cove June 11
• Aquatica June 11
• Bush Gardens June 11
• Adventure Island June 11
• Gatorland – Open!
• Icon Park – Open!
• Legoland – Open!
• Wonderworks – Open!
• Crayola Experience – Open!
• Funspot America – Open!
• Kennedy Space Center – Open!
• Ripley’s Orlando – TBA

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