The latest news from Floridamax...

DISCOUNT THEME PARK AND ATTRACTION TICKETS

Our Management Company Citrus Grove Villas is pleased to announce it is now able to offer for sale pretty much the full range of theme park and attraction tickets, all at exceptionally competitive prices. The only notable exception is Discovery Cove, bookings for which are just too complex for us to cost-effectively administer.

There is of course no such thing as a “cheap” ticket here and we would therefore not go so far as to suggest that we can wave a magic wand and conjure up miraculously low prices that have never been seen before. However, we are able to undercut the prices offered by the two largest and longest-established ticket sellers here in Central Florida, namely Kissimmee Guest Services and Billy Boy’s Tickets.

This means that guests purchasing tickets through Citrus Grove Villas can be assured of extremely competitive prices and of course we ally to these competitive prices our unique brand of customer service, advice and guidance. Ticket purchases will be provided with prices that are as low as can be obtained anywhere else and also be assured that they will receive honest, impartial, constructive and helpful advice as to the best tickets available to suit their needs.

As with most ticket sellers, one- and two-day tickets for most of the parks are usually cheaper at the gate, or even better, purchased from the parks’ own website. We still offer these tickets for sale at the best price we can, but we would not suggest that on this sort of ticket we can provide the lowest prices available.

All tickets we provide are official tickets from the parks. Guests who have purchased tickets through Citrus Grove Villas will find their tickets awaiting their arrival on the breakfast bar in their villa. We have no hidden administration fees, credit card, postage or delivery charges.

We will not be producing a price list, as we shall be constantly monitoring our prices to ensure we are offering the most competitive ones we can and that we are always cheaper than the competition. Prices will be quoted to guests on request and always tweaked and adjusted to ensure they receive the best possible deal.

Generally speaking, we require 48 to 72 hours notice to provide tickets. Not having to pre-purchase and hold the vast selection of possible tickets that is available is fundamental to us providing the low prices that we can, hence we will usually require a little bit of notice to obtain the tickets and have them delivered to the guests’ property.

Citrus Grove Villas will only be offering tickets for sale to guests staying in CGV homes. This again is a factor in ensuring that we can offer such outstanding prices. There will be no financial incentive or commission for owners, as the margins are simply too slim to facilitate this. We view this a service to our guests and part of a bigger package ensuring you are able to access the ultimate in vacation home quality, standards and services.

TEN TOP TIPS TO MAKE SURE YOU ARE THE FIRST IN LINE ON BUSY THEME PARK DAYS....

1. Make sure you purchase the tickets in advance, so you can go straight to the turnstiles and avoid long queues to exchange vouchers or buy tickets at the gate, (which almost always works out more expensive).

2. Get there early – at least 30mins before official opening time, as the parks may open earlier than the published times on busy days.

3. Do your homework and have a plan on what you really want to see and do before you arrive. If you have time you can always go on the other rides later.

4. As soon as the gates open head straight for the furthest point of the park, and don’t get side-tracked by the areas you pass through to get there, (as most people do).

5. Go straight on the most popular rides, and purchase fast-passes if available for the next most popular ride. Use the fast-pass system if the park offers this service, (where you book a slot to come back to the ride and walk straight on at your allotted time). The fast-passes are usually fully booked by late morning, and you can hold a fast-pass for one ride at a time.

6. Avoid eating between the hours of 12pm-2pm, as the restaurants are very crowded and the rides are not so busy, so use this time to do the rides. Have a big breakfast before you leave and you can have a late lunch when the restaurants are not so crowded and everyone else is back on the rides.

7. Try to leave the shows until the afternoon, as you will really need a break from the afternoon heat.

8. Try to buy any souvenirs etc. during the day as the shops are the most crowded at the end of the day when everyone is leaving. Most theme parks shops will keep the items you buy for you to pick up at the gate when you leave.

9. Stay until the park closes if possible as the crowds do thin out just after tea-time when the children start flagging and need to get to bed. If you have young children, try to leave the park for a couple of hours in the afternoon. Take them back to the Villa to have a nap and come back later when they have livened up again, (don’t forget to get a stamp or pass at the gate to allow you back in)

10. Finally, drink lots of water, (not fizzy drinks as they dehydrate the body), and enjoy it! Remember you don’t have to do it all in one day – it’s much less stressful for all of you, if you take your time, let the children play if they want to, and go with the flow.
You can always come back again next year and do the rides you missed - Have fun!

Legoland.... is due to open shortly on the site of the old Cypress Gardens site in Winter Haven. This will be the largest Legoland in the world and, whilst it will be aimed more at the younger family market, it will form a very significant addition to the overall package already available to Central Florida vacationers. You can learn more about what will be available via this link: http://florida.legoland.com The park is scheduled to open 2011 on October 15^th

AN ALTERNATIVE DAY OUT - In a recent report from an acclaimed figure (dubbed “Doctor Beach”) noted for his annual grading of America’s beaches, Florida featured three of the 2008 list of top ten. For somewhere completely different, and certainly a break from the whirlwind of activity that underpins the theme park environs, why not try a day out to Caladesi Island, just north of Clearwater. Caladesi Island is a State Park which has the most divine pure white sands and warm, turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico lapping its shores.

There are no roads, hence no vehicles, and the only way to reach its natural beauty is via boat. If you do not have your own salted away somewhere, the hourly ferry makes the 15-minute crossing for $10 (adult) and $6 (children 4 to 12) return. Visitors are only allowed to remain on the island for a maximum of 4 hours. Aside from the gorgeous sandy beaches and warm, calm waters, there is a nature trail across the centre of the island where you may see the ospreys nesting in the tree tops or fishing for food, the protected gopher tortoises and all manner of other sea birds.

The slightly more adventurous can rent a kayak and get really close to nature, paddling in the crystal clear waters through the mangroves, creeks and inlets. The fishing is also good if you are that way inclined. There are showers and bathroom facilities and also a basic snack bar, commensurate with the fact that your stay is restricted to just a few hours – so don’t expect much in the way of haute cuisine! If you want a chill-out, get-away-from-it-all day on America’s best beach, in one of Florida’s most beautiful, natural and unspoilt places then bring a towel, bottled water, a camera and some sunscreen.

DAYTONA BEACH - Daytona is famous for its Car Racing Circuit, driving on the beach, Sky-Riding the Pier, surfing, video arcades, revelling in hot days and a hotter nightlife, but how about this Daytona: cooler temperatures, secluded beach spots, historic secrets and water sports, both eco and derring-do? If you haven't met this Daytona persona, Autumn (fall) is the perfect time to become acquainted.

From late September onwards the thermometer and barometer inch down just enough to make spending an entire day on the beach breezy and comfortable. School's back in session, meaning the crowd census also inches downward. So, you don't have to wake up at the crack of dawn to stake your beach claim and get wet on Daytona Beach's famed water sports scene. The beach isn't just for surfing anymore. Daytona Beach Parasailing for instance, discounts its rides by $10 each during the fall program. See Daytona from the peace and perspective of 2,000 feet up in the air, if you're really daring.

Wetter still? Take advantage of Bongo Billy's Banana Boat Rides and bounce over the waves with a group of friends. Or captain your own craft and race through the surf with Daytona Beach Jet Boats. But to discover some of the secrets of Daytona Beach, get into eco-mode with Daytona Beach Aqua Safari. Land and sea tours reveal the mysteries of this marine environment – from tiny seahorses to mammoth sea turtles – with hands-on experiences led by a marine biologist. There are more Daytona secrets to be discovered right on the beach, which is steeped in the history of auto and motorcycle racing. In fact, right on Daytona's famous beach Boardwalk, embedded plaques lay out a timeline for the history of racing, which revved up right there on the hard-packed sands.

Racing's North Turn Beach Bar & Grille commemorates the historic site with beachfront dining, racing photographs and memorabilia and dishes such as the Russ Truelove prime rib sandwich. You never know when you might find a NASCAR star sitting down to lunch at this popular spot. Another bite of culinary-related history occupies the circa-1925 Daytona Beach Pier. Views don't get any better than at this pier restaurant, where a rum punch sipped out of a hand-carved coconut pirate and a basket of wings is the way to celebrate sunset.

Also on the beach, the coquina rock Daytona Beach Bandstand dates back to 1937. Away from the Boardwalk and Pier, Daytona harbours more secrets for those with a sense of adventure seeking a sense of place. To escape the crowds and the "discovered" Daytona Beach, head south. Tucked among the resorts of Daytona Beach Shores, Sunglow Pier is the antithesis of the main Daytona Beach Pier. No sky rides here, but more of a hometown feel with hand-painted signs advertising local businesses, warped floorboards and Crabby Joe's Deck & Grill and Calypso Bar. Come to this happy place decorated with Caribbean-style accents and airbrushed ocean scenes for fish and grits at breakfast time or crab cakes for lunch and dinner.

For deeper seclusion with a taste of nature in your beach time, Lighthouse Point Beach's boardwalk leads through varying habitat to the Marine Science Center, a state-of-the-art environmental education facility where you can visit injured sea turtles rehabbing. Farther south in New Smyrna Beach, on the other side of Ponce Inlet, Canaveral National Seashore is a federally protected beach that only the intrepid find.

FLORIDA ATTRACTIONS - The choice of attractions really is endless:

• The Epcot Centre
• The Magic Kingdom
• Downtown Disney
• Gatorland
• Animal Kingdom
• Blizzard Beach & Typhoon Lagoon
• Islands of Adventure
• The film studios of Universal and Hollywood
• The Universal Studio's City Walk
• Wet n' Wild
• Sea World and Discovery Cove
• Aquatica
• Kennedy Space Centre
• Restaurants, Restaurants, Restaurants
• Golf Courses Galore!
• Lakes, Fishing, Watersports…
• And much, much, more......

For retail therapy, get set for great days out at Orlando's fabulous shopping malls. The Florida Mall or for real bargains try the Orlando Premium Outlets. Here you will find amazing bargains on designer brand names and sportswear at fabulous prices.

Do you play golf? Florida hosts some of the best golf courses in the world. Many of them open to the public to play on an ad hoc basis.

Fringed by over a 1000 miles of coastline, powdery white sands are baked by the Florida sunshine. An hour from Orlando you will find lively Daytona Beach and the surfers paradise of Cocoa Beach. Along the Gulf coast warm waters lap broad sands with beautiful stretches at St Petersburg Beach, Clearwater and Treasure Island.

Let’s not forget the weather. Endless days of fine weather and will a purported 360 days of sunshine a year. No wonder it is called the ' Sunshine State'. Dining out is a real experience and Orlando has a huge variety of restaurants to suit any tastes and budget. Whether you want fine cuisine or a simple burger all tastes are catered for. Not to forget Florida's famous all you can eat diners, burger joints, pizza parlours and delicious steak, rib and seafood restaurants. Be warned though, the portions are huge!

When the sun goes down there are always the Orlando nightspots to go and enjoy. The bars and clubs of Downtown Disney or Universals City Walk. An American car parade in Old Town Kissimmee then a wander through the streets looking at the craft shops. Not forgetting the wonderful fireworks at Epcot.

DIFFERENT THINGS TO DO IN FLORIDA

Check out this great website for ideas - http://www.placesaroundflorida.com/

Things to do in Florida - http://www.thingstodo.com/states/FL/index.htm

More things to do in Central Florida - http://www.thingstodo.com/states/FL/cn.htm

International Drive - http://www.internationaldriveorlando.com/50ways/index.asp

Horse Riding – Horse World Riding stables http://www.horseworldstables.com/

Alligator Farm – http://www.everglades.com/

Free things to do in Florida - http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/travel/city-guides/free-orlando-traveler/

Fun things to do - http://www.swimwithmanatees.com/things1.html

Things apart from Disney - http://www.uptake.com/blog/family-things-to-do/things-to-do-in-orlando-florida_3317.html

Outdoor things to do in Florida - http://www.floridaadventuring.com/

50 more ideas - http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/features_momsatwork/2009/07/things-to-do-in-orlando-central-florida-with-kids-children.html

170 extra things to do - http://www.viator.com/Florida/d276-ttd?pref=02&aid=g3024

DINING

Guests frequently ask us for information on the better quality dining establishments, either for the family, mainly for adults, or for that really special occasion. Hopefully this list, which is just a selection of what we know and have enjoyed, will provide some inspiration. Reservations are recommended at many of these locations.

Great for Families

Maggianos – an Italian restaurant located at Pointe Orlando on I-Drive. Reminiscent of the best New York has to offer. Nice ambience, vibrant atmosphere, big servings and excellent value. www.maggianos.com/en/Pages/home.aspx

Bahama Breeze – Caribbean-influenced food in a fun environment. Tasty, good value and good service. Locations on the 192, Lake Buena Vista and I-Drive. www.bahamabreeze.com

Kobe Japanese Steak House – one of the most fun family places to eat. Superb food, very social, great value and unique for its blend of entertainment and great food. Locations on the 192 outside Celebration, Lake Buena Vista, I-Drive and Kirkman Road. www.kobesteakhouse.com

Celebration Town Tavern – located in Celebration, this is a great family restaurant with a broad menu catering for all tastes and good value too. Often has live entertainment. www.thecelebrationtowntavern.com

Bonefish Grill - a mid-priced restaurant with locations at The Loop in Kissimmee, on Sand Lake Road and also in Winter Garden. Great seafood, but with a good choice of other dishes to cater for all tastes. www.bonefishgrill.com

Slightly More Adult

Emeril’s Tchoup Chop – located in the Loews Grand Pacific Hotel at Universal Studios, this restaurant has strong Asian and Polynesian influences and is owned by famous chef Emeril Lagasse. The food is super and very original, the ambience and décor are simply stunning. One of our favorites. www.emerils.com/restaurant/7/Emerils-Tchoup-Chop

Seasons 52 - located on Sand Lake Road, this very trendy and stylish restaurant/wine bar is one of the hottest places to eat. Excellent food, hugely original (no dish has more than 475 calories and they invented the now ubiquitous shot glass dessert concept) and surprisingly good value. Possibly the best blend of quality and value for money anywhere. www.seasons52.com

Brio Tuscan Grille - shopping malls and fine dining are normally mutually exclusive, but this Italian, located at the Mall of Millennia is the exception. Hard to fault, reasonably priced and great when you have finished crucifying your credit card at the stores. www.brioitalian.com

Thai Thani – good Chinese restaurants are an enigma here, so this Thai restaurant, which is recognized for its authentic cuisine, makes a good alternative. Two locations, one in Celebration and one on I-Drive down near SeaWorld – the latter has the better décor and ambience. www.thaithani.net

Bravo Cucina Italiano – part of the same chain as Brio (see above), this Italian offers good food in a stylish setting, but without breaking the bank. Located on Sand Lake Road. www.bravoitalian.com

Press 101 – something a little different, this is a wine and sandwich bar, albeit with a difference. Trendy, fun and good value, it offers sandwiches, flatbreads, soups, salads, cheese plates and desserts. Live music on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Located on Dr Philip’s Blvd/Sand Lake Road. www.press101.com

Texas de Brazil – an unusual dining concept, here there is an unlimited supply of fantastic meats, carved from skewers by roaming waiters. Superb salad bar too. Not the best place for those with small appetites though, as it is a little on the expensive side unless you are going to indulge to the full. www.texasdebrazil.com

More upmarket

Timpano Chop House – a stylish Italian/steak house with a sophisticated ambience located on Sand Lake Road. Divided into two halves, one a traditional open-plan restaurant and the other a lounge bar with dining tables, we recommend the latter. The service is better and they usually have live jazz or lounge music. www.timpanochophouse.net

Emeril’s – located on City Walk at Universal Studios and owned by famous chef Emeril Lagasse, this is just about the best restaurant located at a theme park. The food is superb, the atmosphere lively and it is not a bank-breaker either. www.emerils.com/restaurant/6/Emerils-Orlando

Eleven at Reunion – located on the eleventh floor of the hotel on Reunion Resort, this roof-top restaurant and lounge is stylish yet casual and offers a great menu, as well as stunning panoramic views, including the fireworks at Disney. Please note this is a no-cash restaurant, so cards only. www.reunionresort.com/dining/eleven

Funky Monkey Wine Bar – very trendy, good food and, as you would expect, a great wine selection. It can be a bit quiet and lacking in atmosphere during the week, but it is usually much more vibrant on Fridays and Saturdays. Located at Point Orlando. www.funkymonkeywine.com

Ruth’s Chris Steak House – there are many upscale steak houses in the area, but this is as good as any. You won’t find better steaks anywhere, but this is not a cheap night out!! www.ruthschris.com

Vines Grill – located in the middle of “Restaurant Row” on Sand Lake Road, this chic and sophisticated boutique restaurant offers superb food, excellent wines and live jazz music most nights. www.vinesgrille.com

Il Mulino – a stylish and vibrant upscale Italian restaurant located in the Swan Hotel on Disney. Perhaps a bit pricier than it should be, because of its location, but a good dining experience nonetheless. www.ilmulino.com

Something Special

Forte at Reunion – this restaurant, located on the lobby floor of the hotel on Reunion, is only open from November through April. Offering contemporary American cuisine, it is however one of the best restaurants around. www.reunionresort.com/dining/forte

Capital Grille – this is one of the places to be seen, to be wined, dined and dazzled - as they declare on their web site. Relaxed elegance, superb service, exceptional cuisine and a stunning wine list - albeit all with a price tag to match. www.thecapitalgrille.com

Bice – located within the Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Studios, this is probably the best Italian restaurant in the Orlando area. No need to say more, but not cheap! http://orlando.bicegroup.com

Christini’s – a close rival to Bice as the best Italian restaurant in the area, this is where the well-heeled locals often choose to eat – witness the limos and the flash cars being valet-parked! Located on Dr Phillip’s Blvd/Sand Lake Road. www.christinis.com

Victoria and Albert’s – located in Disney’s Grand Floridian Hotel, this is not just one of the finest restaurants in the area, it is one of the finest restaurants in the whole south-east of the USA. The food, the service, the setting and the ambience simply do not get any better. No children under 10 and dinner jacket required for men (tie optional), this is the ultimate special occasion restaurant, but with prices to match. The cheapest per head menu is $125 without taxes, service and wine. http://victoria-alberts.com

VIEW THE INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION AND SATELLITES Check out a wonderful website http://www.heavens-above.com which has detailed viewing into on ISS and all passing satellites and space junk. Simply register your location on the site.

FITNESS CENTRES want to keep fit whilst you are on vacation? There is a new company called anytime fitness in Cagans Crossing, which is an 8 minute drive north on Highway 27. They specialise in 24 hour facilities and have a lot of equipment. They also do a package for vacationers. For further details please contact Heather Johnson at:

Anytime Fitness, 532 Cagen Park Avenue Clermont, FL 34714
Phone: 352-394-3339 Fax 352-394-3839
Email: clermontFL@anytimefitness.com                                 Website: http://www.anytimefitness.com

TUSCAN RIDGE HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION - To find out further information on the community where Floridamax Villa is located, please click on the following link http://trmhoa.org

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