Port of Entry does a terrific job of setting the tone for your visit to
Islands of Adventure. Themed to reflect the crossroads of a Port town, here you
will find some interesting and intriguing shops, as well as some of the best
theming detail in the park. The stores here are decidedly unique. Of course you
have the standard 'theme park souvenir stores' that do a good job of pushing
all the t-shirts. Of particular interest though are the candy store (which is
attached to the Port of Entry Christmas Shoppe), and the Christmas Shoppe
itself. Oddly enough, this is also one of the most photogenic areas of the park,
as it is rich in detail and theming. Be sure to take some time during your visit
and take some pictures in this area of the park - you'll be happy you did.
If you arrive at the park when it opens, you'll likely be able to experience
just about everything the park has to offer in one day. During peak season, that
tends to be a bit more challenging, but not all together impossible.
Universal Express: While Disney offers thier 'fast pass'
free of charge, Universal chose to take a different approach. A limited number
of Universal Express passes are offered for sale, from approximately $40 to $50
per person, depending on the options you choose. Unlike DIsney's FastPass system
which gives you a set time to return, Universal Express allows you to move to
the front of the line whenever you want (you are limited to one use per
attraction). If you are staying on-site at a Universal resort, however,
UniversalExpress is provided to you free of charge (just show your room key),
and there is no limit to how often you can use it. (There have been rumours that
they will limit the use of the room-key Express Pass during peak times, but that
is not confirmed).
Universal "Meal Deal": Universal offers a "meal deal" that
allows you to effectively eat as much as you want at select counter service
locations. The one park meal deal is $19.99 plus tax for adults, and $9.99 pus
tax for children ages 3-9. The two park meal deal is $24.99 plus tax for adults
and $12.99 for children. Neither offer includes beverages, but the two park Meal
Deal does include a dinner entre at select CityWalk restaurants.
More
details
A very 'wet' park: We really can't stress this enough.
Islands of Adventure tends to be a VERY wet park. Three of its biggest
attractions (Popye and Bluto's Bilge Rat Barges, Dudley Do-Right's Ripsaw Falls
and Jurassic Park River Adventure) have a habit of soaking you to the bone. For
this reason, we suggest that you consider bringing a change of clothes with you
to the park. A common mistake most people make is they think that since Florida
is hot, they will dry off quickly - keep in mind that when Florida is hot, it's
also humid - and nothing is worse then perpetually wet clothes when you're
walking around a theme park.
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