Orlando Vacation Packages-- family

Orlando Vacation Packages-- family deals and Orlando vacation packages You are here: About > Travel > Travel with Kids > Family Travel: What's Hot > Family Travel Deals > Orlando Vacation Packages-- family deals and Orlando vacation packages Travel Travel with Kids Essentials Family Vacation Ideas Winter and Spring Break All-Inclusive Resorts Ten Latest Family Travel Deals Family Resorts: top places; photos Articles & Resources Family Travel: What's Hot Top Vacation Spots VT, ME, NH, CT, MA, NY, PA Mexico Family Vacations Caribbean Vacations More Beach Vacations Florida Family Vacations Resorts with Water Park More Family Resorts Fun Places for Kids Disney Vacations Family Cruises Babies;Teens;Single Parents Lots More Destinations Family Travel TIPS, GAMES Buyer's Guide TAKE ALONG: Christmas books Christmas flicks Activity Kits more CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS Forums Help FREE Newsletter Sign Up Now for the Travel with Kids newsletter! See Online Courses Search Travel with Kids Orlando Vacation Packages -- and other deals This pageincludes Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. See also other Florida deals , and latest deals . Orlando vacation packages and other deals More on Orlando: Top tips for visiting Walt Disney World Where to Stay at WDW Top 10 Things to do in Orlando great guidebook: Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World 2005 Universal Orlando: Kids Free new One Free Kids 2-day ticket is included with each 2-Day day ticket purchased online at the regular price of $99.95; a kid, by the way, is age 3 to 9. Buy online and get two additional days free: buy by January 1, 2006 for use by April 30, 2006. Kids are free with Packages too: kids play, stay, and eat for free January 1, 2006. Ritz-Carlton Orlando: Family Package If you're looking to put on the Ritz in Orlando, this package is available year-round; rates vary by date, but start from $578/night. Package includes: two connecting rooms with confirmed upgrade to Lake View; kids up to age 12 eat at no charge in all Ritz-Carlton restaurants (except Norman's) with every adult entree purchased; complimentary photo album and disposable camera; unlimited ice cream for 2 kids up to age 12; late check-out; complimentary Ritz Kids club for up to 2 children ages 5-12 (reserve 24 hours in advance); OR Breakfast Buffet for 2 adults and 2 children (ages up to 12) at The Vineyard Grill. Nickelodeon Family Suites by Holiday Inn, Orlando Find money-saving packages at this popular all-suites hotel, which has two waterparks plus theming, pool games, and entertainment by Nickelodeon. For example: Single Parent Package, Pizza Delivery Package... Walt Disney World, with United Vacations These vacation packages combine airfares, accommodation at a Disney World resort, and Disneys new Magic Your Way tickets (that add theme park tickets and more at favorable rates.) Three-night packages start at $549 for a Value Resort with airfare from NYC, Boston, and DC. Magic Your Way- Walt Disney World Since Jan. 2 2005, guests staying at a Disney World Resort (Value, Moderate or Luxury) have had have a new way to buy passes: daily cost drops the longer you stay; Dining-inclusive Option can be a money-saver. Dawn's Deals About's guide to Florida for Visitors has Theme Park Deals, Discounts and Coupons, Contests and Sweepstakes, and more. More Orlando Discounts About's Guide for Orlando lists discounts for dining and attractions, plus current specials at the major theme parks. save on Orlando attractions (alphabetical) Affordable Disney S ign up for the free weekly newsletter that's full of tips. Purchasing the (online) book SecretsTo An Affordable Walt Disney World Vacation gives access to news of specific deals. MouseSavers.com A great site, dedicated to helping people get a price break on a Disney Vacation. MouseSavers.com collects discounts of all sorts for Disney World; a treasure trove of money-savers. Orlando: Attractions Discounts The Orlando Sentinel (local newspaper) posts discounts regularly for Walt Disney World and other attractions. Orlando Magicard Get a free "Magicard" from the Orlando Convention and Visitors Bureau, for (usually modest) discounts at SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, Gatorland and other attractions, golf, restaurants, and some good discounts on lodgings. Orlando Promotions Orlandoinfo.com is the official site of the Orlando/Orange County Convention and Visitors' Bureau: read about Orlando vacation packages, hotel deals, Magicard, and more. Orlando Ticket Sales "Save time and money" is the promise, at this official site of the Orlando/Orange County Convention & Visitors Bureau. Order discount attractions tickets in advance. Seasons Pass to Theme Parks Virtually all theme parks offer seasons' passes, and often, the cost isn't much more than the price of two days' admission. Passes often offer other goodies too: discounts on foods and merchandise, free parking, early entrance... "Town car" from the airport to Disney World If you've got a couple of kids along, taking a "town car" may be cheaper than either a shuttle or a taxi. Universal Orlando: Packages Current packages, including resort stay, for this major theme park complex. hotel bargains: Go2Orlando Vacation Planner This site always has bargains: Embassy Suites, Hampton Inn, Hawthorn Suites, lots more. Kissimmee/St. Cloud Bargains This area is full of bargains, and close to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, Sea World, Cypress Gardens and the Kennedy Space Center. Check Special Offers, such as rooms from $19.95 a night, and 3rd day free at Universal Orlando; or check the Hot Deals page. Universal Orlando: Portofino Bay Hotel The Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando is photogenically modeled on the town of Portofino, Italy. Top features include: large "beach pool", waterslide, water shuttle to the theme parks, and front-of-the-line access on rides. Check for Winter WonderLoews rates. * Deals change often: always double-check dates! please note: Any of the Web sites linked to from the About.com Web site are not affiliated in any manner with About.com, Inc. From Teresa Plowright , Your Guide to Travel with Kids . FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now! Advertisement Most Popular Charades -How To Play Charades Family Vacation Spots The Atlantis Resort Great Places to See Santa Disney Christmas Magic Kingdom What's Hot Grand Floridian Chinese New Year - 2006 Poconos Great Wolf Lodge photo Dog Friendly Hotels, inns, lodges -- find dog-friendly vacat... 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Live from Chicago France London Montral Moscow San Diego Toronto KENYA - Most visitors to Kenya want to experience the country's world famous wildlife. But there are many different ways to experience the Kenyan wilderness. Whether you want to drive by a pride of lions in a four wheel drive, walk through herds of plains game, watch a herd of elephants from the comfortable veranda of a safari lodge, track game on horseback or search for rare birds in a thick rainforest, the possibilities are endless. Kenya's wilderness areas are famous world wide. The name Kenya has become synonymous with the great wilds of Africa B l o g | Join our mailing list | Travel info | Weather | This website is certified secure Our Company | Jobs | Contact us | Comments | Tech Support | Privacy Policy | Terms & Conditions 2000-2006 AirTicketsDirect (TM) All rights reserved Macromedia Flash is required to view portions of this site correctly. Download it here . 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Asia Travel || Myanmar

HOTELS RESORTS TRAVEL LEISURE TOURS MYANMAR Myanmar Country and Travel Information Map of Myanmar Nationalities of Myanmar || Historical and Cultural Heritage || Arts and Crafts Highlights on Scenic Beauty || Special events IN GENERAL Myanmar is one of the largest country in South East Asia, stretching over 2,000 km from North to South. It is twice the size of Vietnam, over a quarter larger than Thailand, and Myanmar is bigger than England and France combined. Ethnically diverse, Myanmar is a nation of many races - some 130 ethnic groups make up its population of nearly 45 million. The majority of Myanmar's people are Bamars (from which the British coined the name Burma), but the Shan, Kachin, Kayin, Mon, Rakhine and others are also prominent throughout the country. Myanmar's climate is tropical: during the cool season from late November through February, temperatures are pleasantly mild ranging from 21C to 28 C; the hot season from March to April can see the mercury reach as high as 45 C; and during the months of the rainy season, from May to October short rainstorms are frequent in the late afternoons. The Nationalities of Myanmar Myanmar's ethnically diverse population is a result of three major migrations from Tibet and Central Asia, the cradle of humanity. The people of Myanmar are descendants of three main branches: The Mon-Khmer, the Tibeto-Burman, and the Thai-Chinese. The Kaya, Mon, Wa, La, Palaung, Pale, Yao, Riang, Padaung, Ylnbaw, Zayein, and others originated from the Mon-Khmer group, while the Shan, Kayin and Taungthu, etc., find their roots in the Thai-Chinese community. The Bamar, Chin, Kachin, Lolo, Rahkine, Kadu, Hpon, Maru, Lashi, Rawang, Azi, Nung, Daru, Yaw, Mro, Inthat, Naga, Gauri, Lisu, Lahu, among others, evolved from the Tibeto-Burman group. Historical and Cultural Heritage Kuthodaw Pagoda, in Mandalay, which houses the entire Buddhist scriptures carved onto 729 marble slabs is "The world's largest book". Built by King Mindon, it is indeed a rare and splendid sight. Myanmar's unique historical and cultural heritage dates back over 5,000 years. Evidence confirming the existence of stone age people has been found throughout the country. Early Myanmars were said to be Mons, and the first politically important inhabitants were the Pyu who date back to the early period of the Christian era. It was Bagan, however, which was founded in the 11th century, that gave rise to the dominant culture and civilization in Myanmar's history. Arts and Crafts of Myanmar Myanmar is an enchanting country with a rich history in arts and crafts. Mandalay, the ancient capital and the glory of Myanmar Kings, represents the largest repository of Myanmar arts and crafts. Visitors can observe carvers of ivory, wood and stone, in addition to makers fo gold leaf, silk weavers, silversmiths and bronze-casters, as they ply their respective trades according to the time-honored traditions of their forefathers. The pagodas, religious monuments, and major Buddhist sculptures seen all over Myanmar are authentic examples of the rich tradition of Bagan arts andcrafts and of prior eras of craftmanship so evident throughout Myanmar's history. Highlights on Scenic Beauty Myanmar is blessed with natural scenic beauty making for landscapes that are incredibly picturesque. The country's great lakes, snowcapped mountains and unspoiled beaches are undoubtedly some of the most stunning, idyllic, and mystical places to be found anywhere on earth. Myanmar's physical beauty is enhanced by the spectacular pagodas and temples that can be found all over the country. These venues for contemplation and prayer radiate the obvious spirituality of the people. Special Events Around The Year Myanmar is popularly known as The Land of Festivals because of the countless religious and cultural festivals that take place all ycar round. Some are nation-wide festivities while others are popular solely around the city of Yangon or in the District Areas. JANUARY On January 4th, Independence Day of the Union of Myanmar is celebrated across the country. Countless parades and fairs mark this important day and everyone joins in the festivities. The Myanmar Traditional Equestrian Festival or Myin-Khin-Thabin is a national festival which is held annually in Yangon In ancient times, this festival provided the Myanmar Kings with the opportunity to demonstrate their military might, but today its main purpose is for the perpetuation of Myanmar patriotism. It is a fantastic occasion and tourists are warmly welcomed to participate in the many celebrations. FEBRUARY Traditionally, this is the month of the Harvest Festival when people rejoice in the feast of Htamane. No one should miss this opportunity to sample a delicious Myanmar delicacy consisting of glutinour rice freckle with coconut, sesamum seeds, peanuts, ginger, and oil, which is specially prepared for the feast. The Thingyan festival don't wear your Sunday best! The anniversary of the Union Day falls on February 12. Representatives and cultural troupes of the seven States and seven Divisions of the Union of Myanmar dressed in colourful, traditional costumes gather at venues across the country. Traditional entertainment highlights the beauty of the different ethnic groups found within the Union. MARCH March is the most colorful month of the year as Pagoda Festivals arc in full swing. The Shwedagon Pagoda Festival is held on the day of the full moon of Tabaung and is one of the month s biggest events. During this festival, visitors can get a feel for the spirituality of the people of Myanmar by participating in events at temple fairs or by observing the rituals of the holiday. APRIL Thingyan or the Water Festival is held throughout the country for three days in the month of April. It simultaneously marks the end of the old year and beginning of the new. Young people gather together to sing and dance, and to playfully throw water on each other. Throughout the Thingyan Carnivals decorative floats and water throwing pandals are seen everywhere in both towns and cities alike. If you are not afraid of getting wet, this high spirited festival is one that you won't want to miss! MAY The Kason Festival of watering the Sacred Banyan Tree symbolises the birth, enlightenment and death of Buddha. It is an important Buddhist holiday and many processions are held at temple grounds throughout the country. JUNE AND JULY The onset of monsoon season makes June and July relatively quiet months in Myanmar. There are, however, various smaller Buddhist festivals to be enjoyed. AUGUST Taungpyone Nat or Spirit Festival is a popular five day festival held in Taungpyone near Mandalay. According to tradition, Nats are spirits that must be appeased or they will wreak havoc in people's lives. The two Nat Brothers honoured during Taungpyone Nat belong to the 37 well-known Myanmar Nats. The story of the two Nat Brothers originated during the rule of King Anawrahta, when it was the duty of every person in the kingdom to contribute a brick and a handful of sand for the construction of a Pagoda. The brothers failed to contribute their share and orders came from the King for them to be mildly punished. Unfortunately, the Nat Brothers were accidentally killed. The King was remorseful and built a big Nat (spirit) shrine by the side of the Pagoda honoring the two brothers. The homage-paying festival is now held annually to appease the spirits as it is believed that the Nat Brothers can fulfill your wishes, protect you from ill-fate and danger, and bring good luck, prosperity and progress. SEPTEMBER The famous Phaung-Daw-Oo Pagoda Festival is held at Inle Lake once a year. The procession of the Inle leg-rowers in full pageantry and ceremonial splendour is a sight not to be missed by anyone visiting Myanmar. OCTOBER & NOVEMBER The opening ceremony of Visit Myanmar Year 1 1996 will be kicked off on a grand scale. The celebration will be a gloriously festive occasion. The Thadingyut or Light Festival, which ends the Buddhist I Lent, is also one of the most prominent festivals of the year. Another celebration of light is the Tazaungdine festival held in November. Pagodas, houses, buildings, parks, and monuments arc all illuminated and there are various kinds of activities for everyone to enjoy. The other important festival outside Yangon is the exotic Elephant Dance held in Kyaukse, a small town not far from Mandalay. A huge elephant figure is made from bamboo and paper Men take their places inside the figure and dance around the town to the accompaniment of Dobat and Drums. The elephant dancers circle three times at the foot of the hill to pay homage to the Shwe Tha Lyaung Pagoda. It is a dance that requires precise rhythm and timing in order for the elephant dancers to maintain unity inside the elephant figure. DECEMBER The traditional Boat Regatta Festival is held at Kandawgyi Lake to remind the younger generations of the glory, sovereignty, patriotism and national spirit of Myanmar. Asia Travel || Myanmar Page || Top