Florida Vacations - Off the Beaten Trail

When traveling in Florida most people stay within the tourist corridor and rarely encounter any wildlife.  Florida is just like anywhere else, an ever-evolving sub tropical ecosystem.  At the top of that system is the guy you see up top.  This Florida alligator is about 10 feet long and weighs in at about 350-400 lbs.  These are peaceful, lazy creatures but if you go near the water be sure they are there and they already are aware of you.  The gator can grow up in excess of 13 feet and over 1000 lbs.

If you stop while driving through the state please look where you're walking, especially in grass or water or you can encounter one of these:

This is an Eastern Diamondback Rattler and is native to the southeast.  He won't bother you but he's a viper so has no sense of humor.  He is relatively nocturnal but I found him warming himself in the roadway on a cold day.  When I snapped this photo I stepped out of my truck and his reaction was predictable:

We have various snakes that are harmless, feral hogs, bobcats, and the very rare Florida Panther.  I've lived here all my life and have yet to see one outside captivity.  Be careful where you sit, stand, or place your hand.  The Brown Recluse is on of many spiders that are toxic.  Just remember these creatures only want to be left alone but can be trouble if bothered.  You likely won't encounter any of them but they don't mention them in travel brochures.

BIG NOTE:  Wherever you are in Florida DON'T feed the seagulls.  If you do you will step right into a scene from an Alfred Hitchcock movie!

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!!

Our family wishes each and every one of you a very Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, or any other celebration you are enjoying this holiday season.  I enjoy writing and appreciate everybody for taking the time to read and comment on my blog.  I look forward to contributing more very soon so please stay in touch. Thanks and best wishes for 2013.   -Kevin-

LEGOLAND FLORIDA COMPLETE WALKTHROUGH AND PARK TOUR

I didn't film this but found it very good and informative. Thanks to the YouTube viewer who posted it.

Rockin' Roller Coaster featuring Aerosmith

Rockin' Roller Coaster with Aerosmith is a high speed roller coaster ride through down the Santa Monica Freeway, Los Angeles, and Hollywood to the blasting sound of a medley of Aerosmith tunes.

Get a Fast Pass for this one or go in the single rider line when you visit Disney Hollywood Studios because it's always a wait but well worth it.  Sit back in your car and blast off into the California night.  This ride will hurl you from 0-60 MPH in less than 3 seconds so take off your sunglasses because you will lose them.  Enjoy the soundtrack of a medley of Aerosmith tunes and scream your way through the dark while passing street signs, landmarks, and locations familiar to the music set.  It's not a long ride- lasts about 55 seconds but you'll love every second of it.  I've always been a roller coaster junkie and I never get tired of indoor coasters where I can't tell where I'm going next.  Never gets old!

As always you have to go through the gift shop!  There's no escaping them because we know how to get you to buy things!  You can get a photo of yourselves blasting off or pick out some cool t-shirts.  My daughter loves the headgear.  I know you'll love it.  Have a great time!