Travel | Florida | Week Two

WEEK TWO

In our second week we went back to both Epcot and Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure as there's just so much to do in both parks. We also found ourselves heading to waterparks in the morning, as we were still waking up quite early (8/9am); we were usually one of the first ones there too, which meant less time queuing for rides and less congestion on the lazy river.

Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon.

The two main water parks in Disney World. 

Blizzard beach (in my opinion) has a much better family raft as it's longer, faster and more thrilling, however, the wave pool at Typhoon Lagoon is insane! The waves are huge although you have to be a confident swimmer and quite strong to be at the very front of the pool where the waves are at their highest. 

We usually spend a full day at the water parks, this is the first time we've only gone for the morning, but it's a really good idea, as I said before, there's less congestion on the lazy river and in all the water attractions as people don't really begin to show up and the park get busy until around 11am.

Must: Family raft at Blizzard Beach and get to the front of the waves at Typhoon Lagoon (if you're a confident swimmer)

Magic Kingdom

Arguably the best known and most popular park within Disney World: Magic Kingdom, like it's name suggests is truly magical. This park is where you will find Walt's best friend: Mickey Mouse, alongside all his Disney friends, whose autographs and pictures you can get, although you may have to queue. 

There are six parts that make up Magic Kingdom:

1) Main Street U.S.A

This is the first area you walk into when you hop off the tram or ferry into Magic Kingdom. It's packed with shops and restaurants, full of classic American items and Disney memorabilia and a great introduction to the park.
Must: Eat at the Crystal Palace, and try to book or stay until Wishes starts (fireworks show at 10pm usually) 

2) Liberty Square
Portrays the colonial era of America and is home to three attractions: The Haunted Mansion, The Hall of Presidents and the Liberty Bell Paddlewheel Boat, which takes you on a cruise around 'America's Rivers'; you will also find plenty of shops and cafes here.
Must: Go on The Haunted Mansions. One of my fave rides here. 

3) Tomorrowland
Like the name suggests, Tomorrowland depict's Disney's idea of the future and is home to three of my favourite attractions in the park: The Carousel of Progress, Space Mountain and Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin. You can also hop on the Transit Authority People Mover for a great view of Tomorrowland and a detailed explanation of the history behind that particular land.
Must: If you were going to go on one of these rides, it has to be Buzz Lightyear's Spin. It's so much fun!

4) Frontierland
Frontierland is home to some of the more bigger and better rides (in my opinion) such as Big Thunder Mountain and Splash Mountain (my favourite ride here!). You can hop on the train from Main street to Frontierland which only takes a couple of minutes, plus you get to see a part of the park you wouldn't normally.
Must: Go on Splash Mountain. 

5) Adventureland
Adventureland houses some smaller, more relaxing rides and attractions including: Pirates of the Caribbean, Swiss Family Treehouse and the Jungle Cruise.
Must: Try all three attractions I suggested above!  

6) Fantasyland
Probably the best land for a child's playground within the park. With a mix of smaller rides and 'rollercoasters' (small, but children love them), children really love this land. There's also a no-queue water attraction, which is basically a mini water park in Fantasyland that I have spent many an hour on when I was younger (and this year, I won't lie). 
Must: Try all the little rides, they'll make you feel like a child again!

TOP TIP: Pre-book tables at restaurants before you go on holiday (some have waiting lists for months).

Pre-book fast passes for rides, you can do this online and it will save you a good hour of queuing 

Kelly Park, Natural Spring.
While we were staying at The Hard Rock Hotel, one of the waitresses suggested we go to a natural spring; she had been the weekend before and swam with otters and apparently there were bears at one point (so they all had to evacuate). It sounded really nice and relaxing, and was something different to anything we'd ever done before, so she listed down a few and we drove to the closest one: Kelly Park in Apopka.
We rented tubes from a local bar/shop nearby and headed to the spring. It was cold but very clear and really beautiful, the spring was a natural lazy river and lasted for about 40 minutes, people were having Barbecues and you could also camp over. Other activities included: kayaking, scuba diving and loads of other water activities but these were mainly at other, bigger springs.
TOP TIP: Get there early as the spring car parks have a limit and Kelly Park was closed to other visitors by 1pm.

I hope you've enjoyed my two-part Florida Post. If you haven't read the first part you can find it here.
Have you ever been to Florida or any natural springs? Let me know your fave holiday destination too!
Check out my Pinterest for some travel inspo 


Follow Beth's board Wanderlust on Pinterest. Beth x

Travel | Florida | Week One.

This June I was lucky enough to spend two weeks sunning it up in Orlando, Florida with my family for my sister's 21st birthday. Being in Disney (and Universal) is like being in a wonderful dream, it really is the happiest place on Earth and made for a wonderful twenty-first birthday celebration! 

WEEK ONE
The day we arrived it was a cool 30 degrees (yey!), we were staying in a villa so we headed to Publix (small supermarket) and bought supplies for the week. Publix is perfect for a quick shop as it's smaller than larger supermarkets such as Walmart; you'll find that you're only in your villa in the morning and night, so you'll only need to buy breakfast items, drinks and snacks. 
Top Tips: If you ever find yourself in Publix you need to get a Publix sandwich because they are literally the best sandwich in the world! 
We use Alexander Florida Holiday Homes to look for villas every time we go to Florida; clickable link here.

Animal Kingdom
Our first day was spent in Disney's Animal Kingdom. It's one of the smaller parks centered more specifically around younger children, I say this because there's more focus on smaller, less thrilling rides and is quite zoo-esque (as you may have guessed from the name), but still makes for a great day for all. Activities within Animal Kingdom include: safari rides, boat rides, dinosaur excavation and a number of shows to watch such as 'It's a bugs life', one larger roller coaster (Everest Expedition) and other smaller rides including a water ride. If you're visiting here you have to eat at The Rainforest Cafe, the menu is super appealing although quite pricey, but it's totally worth it for the atmosphere, with floor to ceiling jungle themed deco, and an indoor thunderstorm every half hour, it's an amazing and unforgettable experience!
Must: Go on the safari ride, it's always been a fave of mine.

Hollywood Studios (formerly MGM)

We visited Hollywood Studios on our second day which is centered more around shows and movies, with two big rides: Tower of Terror and Rock'n'Roll Roller coaster. If you are a big movie, television or music enthusiast then Hollywood Studios is ideal for you! It's a great place for adults and children alike with something for both. I would recommend The Great Movie ride and staying till the park closes to watch Fantasmic, an amazing 30 minute fireworks and water show!
Must: Watch Fantasmic atleast once!

Epcot
On our third day we traveled to Epcot: home to The World Showcase which represents 11 countries, including: Mexico, Italy, United Kingdom, Norway, United States, Canada, Japan, China, Morocco, Germany and France. Epcot is probably the most relaxed park in Disney. It's lovely to experience all the countries cultures, food and drink; Epcot doesn't miss a thing when it comes to properly representing each country, and it's almost as good as actually visiting each country separately (a lot less expensive too). Soaring is a ride you have to go on, which can be found in The Land, and also Spaceship Earth, which is located in the big globe (the icon of Epcot).  
Must: Try to go when the Food and Wine festival is on, and buy perfume from Norway: Laila (my fave)!!

 

 Hard Rock Hotel (Birthday Surprise) 
Universal Studios & Islands of Adventure
For an additional birthday surprise my parents booked the Hard Rock Hotel in Orlando, for 2 nights/3 days. The hotel is amazing; everything you would expect from such a renowned company and more (including the price, but totally worth it). The hotel was enormous and so easy to get lost in. The staff were super friendly and inviting and the food was also amazing! Literally the only word I have to describe the Hotel. It's located right next to Universal studios so you can spend a day in the park (with the bonus of 1 hour early entry from Islands of Adventure). While we were there we went on all the wet rides first (people tend to do this last of all and then go home) but because we were only a 10 minute walk away from the park, we would go on the wet rides while there was no queue and then go back to the hotel and get changed and spend the rest of the day chilling in Universal or Islands of Adventure. You have to visit both these parks when you're there, especially if you love roller-coasters (and Harry Potter). They are perfect for all ages and you can literally spend the day filled going on and off rides; there's so much to do! 
Must: Eat at Bubba Gumps Restaurant and go to Margaritaville!

Chill Day
On the last day of the first week we just chilled out in the villa and had a little retail therapy session at Premium Outlets. Premium Outlets is the best outdoor shopping center ever! There always seem to be deals and sales on and it's home to the kind of shops that everyone knows such as: Adidas, Ralph Lauren, Nike, Pac sun and loads more etc..
Later we ordered takeout from Carrabba's which honestly cooks the nicest italian food. (You can also eat in)
Must: Eat from Carrabba's.

Look out for part two of my holiday. In the meanwhile check out my travel inspo on Pinterest!

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20 things to do in your twenties!

My birthday is coming up soon and I'll be turning the grand old age of 20 (still young, I know) but as your 20s are known to be the years you are most fond of and the time to be selfish, I've put together a list of twenty things I think should be done before you have too many commitments and an excuse not to.

1. TRAVEL

This is a MUST, especially for those of you who have major wanderlust! The world is beautiful and should definitely be explored, either by yourself or with close ones.  

2. Road Trip! 

If this isn't the cliché Route 66, then travel your home country and learn to appreciate where you live. I love where I live (UK) and think it's really underrated as a travelling destination. 

3. Go out, stay in, do what you want and be selfish!

Once you're 20, you've left your teens and entered adulthood which means you are responsible for your own life, you choose what you want to eat and when you want to sleep. So go out if you want to and roll into work at some stupid time the following day, or stay in and curl up to Netflix and a glass of wine (or water, whatever). Just do what you enjoy before you have to think about someone other than yourself. 

4. Learn a new skill and master it. 

You literally have all the time in the world, so teach yourself something new! Maybe an instrument, language or craft? 

5. One last family holiday.

For old times sake. Before you're too busy to enjoy and appreciate your parents company. 

6. Girls/lads holiday.

While none of you have commitments, enjoy the freedom and each other's company!

7. Join a team or society.

What about a sports team, craft or music society? Wherever your interests lie. This way you can meet people who you otherwise may not and who share similar interests as you. 

8. Party all night! 

Before hangovers take days to subside.

9. Binge watch a television series.

While you have all this time to yourself, shamelessly binge on your netflix!

10. Experiment with hair colour and clothes style.

Because, why not? Find out what you love.

11. Enlighten yourself and keep learning! 

You may do most of your learning in your teens, but don't forget that your brain can still absorb information and you can never be over-educated!  

13. Spontaneous camp out with a group of friends.

Ditch your phones for a weekend and get back to nature with a group of friends! You'll find it can be really beautiful sleeping under the stars and refreshing to be away from technology for a time.

14.See some of the World's natural wonders.

Swim in a natural spring, get up early to view the sunrise or witness the aurora borealis and aurora australis.

15. Make mistakes, but learn from them. 

You're going to do stupid things and that's alright, just try not to make the same mistake twice.

16. Try something new. 

New foods, new drinks, new adventures, something you never thought you would do.

17. Treat yourself! 

Spend the money you've saved on something you've always wanted or recently been eyeing up!

18. Move out.

Live with friends or solo, you'll gain so much independence and learn a lot. 

Picture from houseandgarden.co.uk

19. Network.

You never know who you meet or what friends you'll make if you put yourself out there. These relationships could come in really handy later on in life.

20. Fall in love (even if just for a night). 

Wink, wink.

Hope this post has inspired you to make the most of your twenties! I'd love to know if you have any other ideas or recommendations?
Check out my Instagram here or check out my Pinterest for more inspo 

Visit Beth's profile on Pinterest.

Travel | Packing for a Summer Getaway

 Summer is the season for sunshine which, if you are living in the UK, usually means jetting away to a more tropical climate. If you are dreaming of hopping on a plane and topping up your tan, then have a look at a few of my tips for packing your suitcase suitable for all occasions abroad!

I'm lucky enough to be jetting off to Orlando, Florida tomorrow for my sister's 21st with my family for two weeks! I've been excitedly counting down the days, although amidst all of my university exams and moving out of my flat, I've left my packing to the last day, oops. 

I have been to Florida quite a few times before so am very familiar with the heat (and humidity) of the place, which doesn't bode well for someone with frizzy hair like me, and of course the theme parks (which you have to visit if you are going to Orlando!) which makes it easier for me to know what to pack.

Considering all of the above, I based what I packed on three things:
- Activities

- Comfort

- Occasions

and obviously I've taken the temperature into consideration.

The above are just a few outfits that I would wear on a daily basis. I've paired super comfy shoes (as I'll be doing a LOT of walking) with both crop and normal tops along with denim shorts, as it will be too hot to wear anything longer! (and obvs I want a tan). I've also added the option of a shirt and cardigan for extra warmth in case we go into an air conditioned restaurant, or if it gets cool at night (which honestly never happens. Yay!)

Accessories Jazz up the outfits, but aren't really suitable for major roller coasters as they'll most likely end up hitting me in the face and make for a hideous (although hilarious) photograph, so I'll probably be taking them on and off throughout the day. This is where a bag comes in REALLY handy, so don't forget one!    

I've packed more, versatile tops and a couple of skirts. The tops are all light-weight and can be paired with bottoms to either create a care-free and relaxed outfit, or a dressed-up outfit for the nights activities i.e. dining out. The same for the skirts; they are made from a heavier material but they are really comfy, colourful and cute, so I'm prepared to feel a little hotter wearing them, and they are also fine when wet as they wont chafe between your legs (lol, that word makes me laugh).  

One outfit I have brought specifically for 'dressing up' in is the outfit above. The tailored looking dress is a recent purchase from Topshop, and despite being quite a heavy material, it's perfect for the night. I've paired it with a statement necklace from Newlook, some gladiator sandals from White Stuff and a light-weight kimono, again, from Newlook.

The picture below shows the tailored dress from Topshop, a light-weight, floaty dress from TKMaxx, a thin maxi dress from Urban Outfitters and a cute, floral playsuit from Missguided. The last three are all really versatile outfits as the material is so thin and light. They will dry really easily and keep me cooler than some of my heavier pieces or clothing.  

Obviously I'll be taking swimwear, as I'll be hitting the water parks and we're staying in a villa with a pool, which is heavenly in their hot, hot climate! Both bikinis are from River Island.

I'll be taking makeup with me for my nights out, but I have narrowed down my options because I don't think it's necessary to take all of it. The weather will be so hot during the day that I will most likely sweat it off and I'll be wearing sunglasses which will help to cover up my bags and blood-shot eyes (from the chlorine, not alcohol. Cough..)

And there you go, that's all I'm taking clothes/makeup wise. Obviously I'll be taking other hygiene related products like deodorant, toothbrush etc.

To summarise I have packed:
- Comfy Shoes 

(Jelly Shoes, Roche Run Nike trainers and Gladiator Sandals) 

- Clothes for all occasions and suitable for the weather 
(Fancy meals, day-time wear, swim wear, night-wear)

- Accessories

(Sunglasses, necklaces and bracelets etc)

A good tip for jewellery is to place them in sealable, plastic bags so they don't tangle.

I hope this post helps, especially for you last minute kinda people!
Check out my Pinterest for some holiday destination inspo! 

Beth x

Follow Beth's board Wanderlust on Pinterest.

Made by me | Knitted Halter Neck Crop-Top

So this month I set myself the challenge of knitting my very own crop top. I have wanted to advance my skills technically within knitting for some time, but as I teach myself and have been busy with work and university I haven't really had the time or skill before now to do so. Seriously, if I was ever to pick up the knitting needles it would just be to knit ANOTHER hat, I've been knitting them so regularly that I could probably knit one in the dark. Just saying..

Anyway, I've been out shopping recently (after I finally finished my exams) and fell in love with all these knitted and crocheted crop tops/bralets/halternecks etc, but after looking at the prices of them I was a little put off; I knew I could make one for at least half the price and so I set myself the challenge.

I had bought some really beautiful coloured, blue yarn a couple of months ago and hadn't had a use for it up until I decided to knit my own top, it is really soft so I knew it would be perfect for wearing. 

I used 4.0mm straight needles and cast on 130 stitches (I'm a size 6/8 for tops as I have no boobs. cry)

I used a knit 2, purl 2 pattern until my stitches measured about 4cm and then proceeded to knit 1, purl 1 until that part of my work measured 15cm (so overall my work was 19cm). 

Obviously the length of your top depends on your own preference and personal measurements. I wanted my top to start just above my belly button.

Then I started to decrease my work, to create room for my arms. Here I would knit 2 together every third stitch, so I would use my usual pattern of knit 1 purl 1 and then knit 2 together, and then carry my pattern on. I did this until my work measured approximately 25cm accross. I then carried on knitting 1 and purling 1 until my work measured my overall desired length (around 30cm).

I put my work against my body to make sure it was the length I wanted and that it all looked alright, before I seamed the loose stitches at the top of my work together. Then I created a plaited, halter neck strap and attached that to my top. and finally seamed the back of my top together. 

The whole experience was a massive learning curve and took me about a week to finish (contributing about 3 or 4 hours a day as my hands begin to hurt when I knit for too long). I had nothing to guide me, I literally just used my knit and purl knowledge and guessed at what I was doing, so I'm extra proud that it worked out. Although there are things I would change, as it definitely isn't perfect and I am still altering my seaming on it, I'm determined to keep going until I have it right! 

I hope this helps any of you knitting novices, or anyone who wants to start knitting. It is super fun as you can literally make anything you want and you only really need to know the basics and have a bit of imagination! 

If you don't want to knit your own then here are a couple I love that you can buy online:

Vera Moda sleeveless knitted top, which you can buy from here.

Printed asymmetrical top from Zara. Clickable link here

I hope you enjoyed reading and feel inspired to make your own and get crafting! Check out my Pinterest board below for some crafty inspo
Beth x

Follow Beth Dallas's board Craft on Pinterest.