We did the do – Orlando. This time, less Disney, more 4D. As in Universal – these 4D rides are perfect for a group of all ages. The kids ranged from 6-12 and the adults, well, a little bit older. And we picked the perfect time to go. I was afraid to question why we had hardly any lines in both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure over and through the Halloween holiday lest it end, but it was like fast passing it without the extra fee!!
Everyone enjoyed both parks and had a blast. The virtual reality and live motion of the 4D rides was exhilarating. I can’t wait for our kids’ kids to see what comes next in the evolution of entertainment! The weather was also absolutely perfect. We did big dinners a couple of the nights and I shall tell you of my favorite: Cowfish in Universal Citywalk. 
While waiting only a short while for our table, we enjoyed some delicious hand-crafted cocktails and the kids sat at an interactive screen where they could design their own fish to swim past them in a digital aquarium behind the bar – how cool is that?? But back to the cocktails. One was a Bourbon drink garnished with bacon and a blueberry – wowww!!
The others were delightfully refreshing blends of vodkas, fruits and herbs. Very creative and tasty, but the bourbon was the most picturesque. And then there was the food. We ordered more than twice what we needed, but Burgushi?? The fusion of sushi and burgers and everything in between?? How is one supposed to moderate one’s self under such circumstances?? So I didn’t.
The two apps above were my favorite and definitely in different food circles. An avocado tuna martini, which there was no way I wasn’t going to get this when I saw it in my previewing of the menu, and bacon Parmesan truffle fries, to which I need not offer any explanation. We also got the calamari, delicious, and the ahi and salmon poke. I didn’t get pics of everything in the midst of the food frenzy. For our entrees, we shared a few different rolls that incorporated both traditional notions of sushi as well as significant creativity and divergence from the norm. 
The “Burgushi” fusion of surf and turf had lobster inside, seared filet mignon on top, and crisped up portabellas on top of that! Crazy!!
Everything was very tasty. Also had to try one of the amazing burgers – black and Brie, which had Brie cheese and blackberries on it!
I love sweet and savory combos like that! Loved this place – fun for the whole family. Plus we had a great view from the outside upper level patio of Universal Citywalk.
Although I said last time at Disney that I’d never stay off-property again, I broke my promise this time. But worth it! We really wanted a room with two bedrooms and the Sheraton Vistana Resort Villas definitely provided. Renting a car was also an excellent idea – parking at the attractions was reasonable (some stuff was even free like Disney Springs) – and then we didn’t have to rely on shuttles or taxis. The Sheraton was about a 10 minute ride to everywhere we wanted to go. And the rooms were awesome!! Townhouses, rather, with a nice master bedroom and bath, plus a kitchen living room and dining room on the first floor. The second floor loft has a kids bedroom and full bath with a seating area. Several pools worthy of a full day at the resort, tennis, a marketplace to get stuff if you wanted to use the kitchen (of course we initially thought we would, but, oh well). Definitely a great hotel pick!!
In addition to Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and a great pool day at the resort, I also embarked on a trip around the world to taste the food and drink of many countries!! The Epcot International Food and Wine Festival!! Separate blog to come soon about it, so stay tuned!!!
Eat, Drink, and Go! 