Monthly Archives: February 2019

What’s included at Discovery Cove Orlando?

Ever wondered if you could afford to go to Discovery Cove? Well we did too. For years we visited our favourite Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and SeaWorld, giving our feet a rest with days at Aquatica.

snorkelling at Discovery Cove — Snorkelling at Discovery Cove – Wind Away River

We had heard about Discovery Cove, seen the advertisements on TV and saw the posters at SeaWorld but always thought we couldn’t afford it. Coming from the UK we usually buy our attraction tickets in advance…14 day Universal three park ticket, 14 day SeaWorld ticket which include Aquatica and a Universal Halloween Horror Nights frequent fear pass. Paying for those left us no money for Discovery Cove.

Then after telling myself we really must go I looked more into the pricing of the tickets and discovered that a basic Discovery cove ticket also gave you 14 days admission to SeaWorld and Aquatica. And if you paid a little more even Busch Gardens was included. Well now you’re talking. From then on we have visited every year.

What is there to do at Discovery cove?

Personally I think a day at Discovery Cove goes so fast. We usually aim to get there about 8am. Parking is free and because entry is limited to only around 1300 guests once you have checked in there are virtually no queues.

For those who haven’t been before staff escort you to the check in desks where you will have your photograph taken for your ID card. You will need your booking details and either passport or some sort of photo ID. They then give you a lanyard with your waterproof photo card and a waterproof mini map of the resort. The card also serves as your admission ticket to SeaWorld, Aquatica and Busch gardens (if you paid the extra).

After check in you are greeted by other staff members who show you where the changing rooms and lockers are and where to pick up your wet suits, snorkel and goggles. We usually grab a locker first to dump our bags then head for breakfast before getting changed for swimming. There are plenty of loungers throughout the resort and towels are provided in the changing rooms – I usually get two for my lounger.

Wearing a wet suit or vest is compulsory so that staff can see guests easily. These are available in many sizes.

Breakfast and lunch are included and are all you can eat – drinks included. Find a table after choosing your meal. Watch out for the Blue Jays and egrets eyeing up your leftovers – staff clear away promptly. Most guests are usually in their swimming gear for lunch.

The resort is split into several areas

Wind Away River

This is a Freshwater River with a slow current and quite warm water. The depth varies and if you aren’t using your snorkel you can get caught out by the sudden change in depth although there are warning signs and plenty of lifeguards. It is themed like a real riverbed and runs through a heavily planted tropical canopy with waterfalls. In parts it flows through the Explorers Aviary and the Freshwater Oasis. There are several entry and exit points but we usually enter through the themed caves at the far side of Serenity Bay. Noodles are available for children and those less able. If you haven’t snorkelled before give it a try – it opens up a whole new world.

Snorkelling in the Wind Away River at Discovery Cove — One of the interesting things to see whilst snorkelling in the Wind Away River at Discovery Cove

Dolphin Lagoon

This is where you join your group if you have upgraded to include a 30 minute Dolphin experience ending with a short swim with a dolphin by holding onto it’s dorsal fin.

Explorers Aviary

This can be reached via the Wind Away River or taking the left path after passing Serenity Bay. Here you can feed the friendly birds and learn more about them from the staff members. Tip – It’s best to feed them early morning as they get full by lunchtime and not as interactive. Food for the birds is free.

Freshwater Oasis

Here you can see playful Otters and an island with Marmosets. Found near the end of the Wind away River near the entrance to the Explorers Aviary.

The Grand Reef

This is as close to snorkelling in the sea as you can get. The Grand Reef is teeming with brightly coloured fish and sting rays. They glide effortlessly past and you’ve to be on the ball to get a good photo. Be aware that this is saltwater and feels like ice after being in the warm waters of Wind Away River – best just to take the plunge quickly. The edges of the reef are shallow so you can just wade in and gets about ten feet deep towards the back with man made corals and gorges to explore.

You can watch the fish and rays being fed at several times during the day. At the far side to the right of the reef is a shark pool, separated from the reef by a glass wall. You can swim right up and as the glass wall is at an angle when you are snorkelling it feels like the sharks are above you. In this area there are sandy exits leading to bridges overlooking the shark pool on your right and on the left you can see the part of the reef where the Sea Venture takes place.

Serenity Bay

Serenity Bay is a relaxing area with warm tranquil waters. On one side of the path are low chairs where you sit and enjoy your snacks from the nearby kiosk. On the other side is a large free form lagoon again with warm fresh water, a sandy beach and a cave system leading to the Wind Away River.

Is Discovery Cove really all Inclusive?

Yes, you can leave your wallet at home. The only thing you’ll need money for is for photographs if you choose to have them or upgrades. You do need your passport or Photo ID. On check in they will take your photograph and give you a lanyard with a photo card attached. You can use this at SeaWorld, Aquatica and Busch gardens (if applicable).

Your ticket includes

all you can eat breakfast.
all you can eat lunch
free snacks and drinks (hot,cold and alcoholic) throughout the day at kiosks dotted around the resort
free lockers
use of soft large white towels
animal and fish friendly sunscreen
use of snorkel and goggles
you get to keep your snorkel
use of wet suit or vest
use of hair driers in changing rooms
plastic bags to put your wet swim gear into
free parking

Photo of snack kiosk at Discovery cove — Snack Kiosk at Discovery cove

Ticket prices vary according to the time of year and start around $149 for the basic day package which doesn’t include a swim with the dolphins, $199 with a dolphin swim, up to $399 to be a trainer for the day. Children under two are free with a full paying adult but a reservation is still required. Tickets must be bought in advance and a date specified. Discounts are available for Florida residents.

Upgrades

Sea Venture – wearing a dive helmet you will walk on the floor of the Grand Reef

Animal Trek – a 60 minute escorted tour behind the scenes with a chance to meet birds and small mammals.

Rent a Cabana – Have your own private space with table and chairs, locker, towels, unlimited drinks and snacks. Ideally for up to 6 guests.

Day bed – big enough for two to relax in after time in the water.

Drink package – With options such as Rum Punch, Sangria, upgraded wines and craft beers.

Ray feeding – Join the staff feeding rays and fish early in the morning.

Swim with sharks – If you’re brave enough.

Last year I noticed some guests were actually feeding sharks after training.

Shark feeding at Discovery Cove — Shark Feeding at Discovery Cove

I think Discovery Cove is well worth the money considering you get unlimited visits to Aquatica and SeaWorld for 14 days – this can commence prior to your visit to Discovery Cove – just show your documents with the bar code. It may not be as exciting as Universal Studios or Universal’s Islands of Adventure but if you feel you need to chill out and give your feet a rest this is the place to be.

Just one more thought – all the photos are my own. I highly recommend purchasing an underwater camera even if it’s only a disposable one. Discovery cove does have photo packages which are most likely essential if you do the dolphin swim as other guests can only watch from the shore.

Do leave a comment if you can add anything or ask any questions and I’ll do my best to help.

7 Tips for eating on a budget at Universal Orlando

The Leaky Cauldron Restaurant, Diagon Alley, Universal Studios Orlando — The Leaky Cauldron at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley Universal Studios Orlando

For many of you it’s already cost an arm and a leg to stay on site at a Universal Resort just so you can get an Unlimited express pass or early entry to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. However once you’re settled in your room, thoughts come round to meal times.

For those staying only a couple of days, splashing out on the best restaurants and trying something different may be the way to go but if you’re on a budget like myself and my other half, food is a necessary expense. As the pound has taken a fall compared to the dollar in recent years it doesn’t go so far when an ice cream and a soda costs about £20 for two in most of Orlando’s theme Parks. Add the price of your park tickets to the price of your flight and airfare and you wonder how the average worker can ever manage to visit Orlando. We always feel privileged to be there and don’t take one minute for granted.

I read many reviews where many families comment on the Universal Hotels but say they can’t comment on the restaurants as they’ve ever eaten there as it’s just too expensive. Despite staying at The Royal Pacific for several years we have only dined there once and that was complimentary due to problems with our room. We live in hope and do the Lottery every week.

My meal budgeting tips when staying at Universal Orlando

Number One and the most important – Leave the kids at home…. Only Joking . Though I’m sure many of you like ourselves could not afford to visit Universal Orlando when the children are young and keeping a roof over your head is the most important. We did take our son when he was older and made memories we’ll never forget.
Have a good breakfast – Most rooms at Universal Orlando Resort now have empty fridges rather than a mini bar. Ideal for holding large milk cartons. Cereals can be bought locally at Walgreens. There’s one at the junction of Universal Boulevard and international Drive and also at the junction of International Drive and Sand Lake Road. They also sell milk, bread and other fresh foods. Visit your local supermarket – If you’ve travelled by car or hired one take a trip to the local Walmart. We go to the one on Sand Lake Road about three miles away. Food is still expensive compared to the UK but you will save compared to eating breakfast in the parks.
Buy a refillable souvenir cup – Universal have a few different deals when it comes to their souvenir cup. They are all heavy duty plastic with a straw and a lid. My favourite is the classic. You buy either a basic cup or a character cup such as a Minion or Sponge Bob and the initial cost covers your first refill. After that the refills are around $1.50 (2018). The advantage to these cups are that the deal lasts for ever at present. You can bring the mug back year after year and only pay the current refill price. This is a huge saving on the full price. This applies to any refill from any kiosk or restaurant in Islands of Adventure or Universal Studios with a soda fountain dispenser. Unfortunately it doesn’t apply to the drinks at Harry Potter. The other deal is the chipped cup for use at Freestyle machines which give up to a hundred drink combinations. Refills are free for the whole day ( return after 10 minutes). You can pay for a set amount of days or recharge the cup the next day for more free refills or use it as a classic cup and pay the reduced price for refills. Universal also do a popcorn bucket with reduced cost refills. Orlando Informer has an excellent complete insider guide to the discount refill programmes at Universal. Tip – just ask at any kiosk or quick serve restaurant for free iced water.
Stay at Cabana Bay – They have family suites which sleep up to six people equipped with a sink, good sized fridge under the worktop, coffee maker and a microwave. Ideal for breakfast and snacks. Disposable plates and cutlery are replaced daily. Cabana Bay also has it’s own food court with reasonable prices. We got a really good pizza and thought we were paying for a slice, then was pleasantly surprised when we got a whole one. Although you don’t get the Ultimate Express pass at Cabana Bay you still get the early entry to the Wizarding world of Harry Potter and Volcano Bay.

Cabana Bay family suite , breakfast bar, fridge , sink, microwave — Cabana Bay – Breakfast bar and amenities

Refillable souvenir cup — Refillable Souvenir cup

Visit an all you can eat restaurant for breakfast or dinner – If you’re after a full English or American breakfast to put you on all day saving you having to eat in the parks I would recommend trying the endless buffet at the Golden Corral. We go to the one behind the Harley Davidson store on International Drive. They have something for everyone and I’m sure even the fussiest of children will find something they like. They even do candyfloss. Prices vary throughout the day with breakfast being the cheapest and includes refillable beverages. Tips – If you arrive before menus change at lunch or dinner you will pay the lesser price but will be able to help yourself to the dearer choices once they are setting them out. Pick up some of the booklets near the exit – they are full of coupons for restaurants and nearby attractions.
Discounts for over 60’s – Some restaurants in the area will give a discount for those over 60. A few give a discount if you’re over 55. Occasionally as my hair is white, when I’ve checked the bill afterwards they’ve automatically given me a discount – even though I’m not 60.
Splash out once in a while – Of course you can’t get away with not eating at all at Universal Orlando. It’s part of why you’re there, you’re on holiday. One of my favourite places to eat is The Three Broomsticks at Hogsmeade which is in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Islands of Adventure or the Leaky Cauldron at Diagon Alley. The chicken and rib platter is really tasty and there’s enough to share ( more than enough for two children to share). The theming will please any Harry Potter fan. Tip – These are usually very busy around lunchtime so plan to eat before 12 noon or after 2pm The Monster Cafe at universal Studios also has good portions. Even two people will struggle getting through a dessert or milkshake at The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium at City Walk. There are some also some cheaper eateries on the upper level food court at city walk.

Milkshake at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium

Toothsome Chocolate Emporium – City Walk

So that’s how we economise. It may seem like we’re missing out on some experiences for example I’ve always wanted to eat in the Mythos Restaurant but would rather enjoy a day at Discovery Cove with the money we save. Read my post on Discovery Cove here as breakfast and lunch are included as well as unlimited drinks and snacks.

How do you manage your food budget whilst you’re at Universal Orlando ? Please leave a comment if you can add any tips.

Guide to The Royal Pacific at Universal Orlando Resort

Aloha at Loews Royal Pacific

The Royal Pacific at Universal Orlando resort is my favourite of the Premier Universal Hotels having stayed there several times. It has a tropical south sea theme throughout the resort reflected in the lush landscaping and water gardens giving a calm and peaceful ambience. The hotel also borders the extensive waterways connecting to the Universal theme Parks and has its own sand beach. There is also a Games room, Gym, steam room and sauna with locker rooms and lounges which is complimentary for guests.

Loews Royal Pacific is one of Universal’s Premier Hotels and there are many perks to staying there compared to the other Resorts. Please check out my other post from this link – 14 Reasons to stay at a Universal Resort Hotel

Guests are greeted with Aloha on arrival and indeed throughout your stay. Traditional Leis are presented to you at check in and on one occasion we were given wooden back scratchers ( well I think that’s what they were).

The entrance itself is impressive. From the parking lot or vehicle drop off you have to cross a bridge to enter the impressive lobby. The bridge with it’s carved frogs overlooks a representation of tropical terraces and water gardens. You can hear falling water and at first because I couldn’t see any I thought the sound was coming through speakers but after exploring the lower floor of the hotel there are actually waterfalls under the bridge.

Waterfalls under the entry bridge at Loews Royal Pacific — Waterfalls under the bridge at Loews Royal pacific

The lobby is set round a central courtyard with a large reflective pool surrounded by orchids and fountains. There are two shops in the lobby. Toko Gifts a Universal souvenir gift shop which also sells sundries such as snacks, medicines and stamps and a small shop selling carved ornamental wooden items. Steps lead from the lobby to the pool area which is accessed from a lower floor. Here there is another store; Treasures of Bali selling bathing suits, beach towels and gifts.

reflective pool and fountains lobby Loews Royal Pacific — Courtyard pool and fountains Royal Pacific Lobby

Comfortable peaceful rooms

The rooms were upgraded a couple of years ago and are beautiful. The old decor had a colonial touch but now it’s bright and modern with the chests of drawers resembling vintage travelling trunks.

Rooms have a Keurig coffee maker with supplies which are topped up daily. I always take my own teabags and use the coffee maker to provide the hot water. I do find the location of this a little awkward as its situated in the main dresser under the television quite low down on a shelf that slides out, necessitating having the cupboard door opened to use it. There is a decent size small fridge, much bigger than the old mini bar fridge which will take large bottle of soda or milk cartons. This is also hidden in the cupboard.

Rooms vary from standard King or two Queen with garden, pool or water views to the grandest Presidential Suites. There are also Club Level rooms or suites which include breakfast, snacks and beverages throughout the day and dessert in the evenings. The Royal Pacific also takes dogs in certain rooms and has an attractive exercise area in the gardens.

All rooms have iron and ironing board, hairdryer, safe which will hold documents and a small laptop or tablet, numerous electrical outlets and plenty of USB sockets built into the furniture; not forgetting a massive TV. We stayed in a two queen bed room which had a step in shower big enough for two with one fixed and one hand held shower heads. The toilet is in the shower room. The sink and vanity unit are in a separate section enabling one person to shower whilst the other can attend to makeup or shaving. Quality toiletries, hand soap, shower gel, shampoo, conditioner and moisturiser/ body lotion are provided along with cotton buds cotton balls and tissues. In my opinion the one thing that lets the rooms down is the translucent glass sliding door into the shower room being frosted glass and not close fitting like a traditional door. It’s not very private.

Getting to City Walk and the Parks

To get to the Islands of Adventure or Universal Studios you can take the free water taxi which drops you off at City Walk. This runs approximately every twenty minutes from one hour prior to early opening until 2am. You will go through security prior to boarding. Take the shuttle bus or choose an 8 minute walk along the landscaped path which brings you to the entrance of Islands of Adventure. Either way there’s no roads to cross. We usually walk there and get the boat back as we’re usually exhausted by the end of the day. We often pass a few joggers on the path as it connects all the hotels except Universal’s Endless Summer Resort.

If you have a car to park it’s quite expensive but bear in mind you would have parking charges to pay at the main parking garages at the parks if you were staying at a non Universal hotel. This year the charges were $28 a night for overnight guests making it very expensive for a 14 night stay. A polite request for a discount was declined. Valet parking is also available. Car parks are accessible with your room key card on entry and exit to lift the barriers. On your first visit press the button to take a ticket and hand it in at the front desk when checking in. There is an overflow car park which is quite a walk from the main entrance but we actually found it was closer to the block our room was in one year and preferred to park there once we had checked in. It is possible to pick up and drop off in front of the hotel to the left prior to parking.

Relax at the Royal pacific Pool

Photo of Royal Pacific pool early morning — Early morning at The Royal Pacific

The Royal Pacific has a lovely free form pool with zero entry and attentive lifeguards where you can relax surrounded by exotic palms and plants. Towels are provided on production of you room key card. There is a small pool for toddlers and an interactive water play area for children ( and adults). Poolside movies are shown on certain evenings. Cabanas can be rented for the day. There are two hot tubs and a Volley Ball Court Fruit infused ice water and sunscreen are available with no charge. We usually visit the pool first thing in the morning and play with the inflatable balls for half an hour to limber up for the strenuous day ahead. Often we have the pool to ourselves at that time of day apart from a few ducks.

The Royal Pacific is my favourite mainly due to the relaxing atmosphere and opulent decor. I really feel like I’ve escaped to a South Sea Island. It’s close enough to walk to the parks and come back for an afternoon nap before hitting the parks again in the evening; yet far enough away to escape the hustle and bustle. Though you can just hear the roar of The Hulk in the distance ( It’s so easy to forget the Parks are just across the road.)

I’d love to hear about your favourite Universal Resort or answer any questions if I can. Feel free to leave a comment.

Tales from the Dot Side

Discover with Dot – To Universal and Beyond