Destinations Diva

As someone who struggles with chronic foot pain, my doctors agree that losing weight can only help my situation.  I recently began Weight Watchers, using their Smart Points system to aid in the weight loss process.  The pounds are slowly coming off and I'm getting healthier every day.   But...I'm going to Universal Orlando!  How does one try to stick to their weight loss plan while visiting the mecca of tantalizing sweet treats and a fried food paradise?  I'm here to tell you that staying on track at Universal Orlando is easier than you might think! Getting in Your Steps There is one obvious aspect of a Universal Orlando vacation.  You will walk a lot!  The average theme park guest walks between five and seven miles per day.  While it may not always be heart-pumping cardio, you will burn lots of calories while you tour the parks.  Use modern tools to calculate how many steps you're taking by using devices such as a Fitbit whi...

     Universal Orlando is a complete vacation destination located in Orlando, Florida and only 10 minutes from the gates of Walt Disney World.  It is quickly becoming one of the most popular destinations for family travel.  With two theme parks, a water park, four onsite hotels and a dining/entertainment complex, convention space and more expansion in the works, guests have no reason to leave!  The past few years have seen tremendous changes at the Universal complex, mostly due to the popularity of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.   Hogwarts Castle at Islands of Adventure The Cabana Bay Beach Resort is the newest onsite hotel in the value category with perks like complimentary transportation to the parks and Early Park Admission.  The newest restaurant at Universal CityWalk, the onsite entertainment complex, is NBC Grill and Brew, a sports bar with much more! And we must not forget the recently opened Diagon Alley in The Wizarding World o...

     I recently visited Universal Orlando with my problem feet.  I have chronic foot pain and paratenonitis.  Theme park guests walk an average of no less than 5 miles per day.  If you are like me, that equals much of your day wasted in pain and "sit breaks."   Here are tips for guests with mobility issues to get the most out of their day at Universal Orlando: Rent an ECV.      Electronic Conveyance Vehicles (ECV's) otherwise known as electric scooters, give a feeling of independence and freedom to the guest with trouble walking or standing.  The average price at most Orlando theme parks is $50 per day (you can park hop by turning it in at each park and getting a new one at Disney).  At Universal Orlando, park hopping is allowed with your rented ECV. Get and Attraction Assistance Pass .  Visit Guest Services after entering the parks.  Tell them you have a medical issue which prevents you from standing in a long q...