Exciting times for Universal Orlando Resort. New rides, a new hotel, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is doubling in size – and they’ve just had a visit from Steven Spielberg.
The movie mogul attended the spectacular launch of Transformers: The Ride – 3D which he described as “awesome”. Spielberg, who has produced a Transformers movie, walked on the red carpet with favourite robot Optimus Prime before formation jets soared overhead and fireworks shot into the sky.
The attraction is full of state-of-the-art technology and amazing special effects that blow you away. Caught up in the war between the Autobots and the Decepticons (below), buildings, trains and cars are smashed to pieces and the debris comes flying inches from your face. You can even feel the heat from a burning missile.
The gigantic robots clamber around your cars as you are recruited to help protect the AllSpark – a powerful energy source which, in the wrong hands, could destroy the planet. Don’t worry if you are not sure what’s going on, it’s an amazing ride and you are even lifted 60ft without even knowing it!
YourHols was given a tour of the new area surrounding The Simpsons Ride. Springfield, home to America’s favourite animated family, is being brought to life within Universal Studios. Fast Food Boulevard is already open and you can tuck into a Krusty Burger, a slice of Luigi’s Pizza, a Lard Lad donut like the kids above or Duff beer (there’s Trisha, above, trying it out) at Moe’s Tavern.
The remaining part of Springfield will be open late this summer, including a new attraction Kang & Kodos’ Twirl ‘n’ Hurl which takes “foolish humans” into orbit.
The new retro-style Cabana Bay Beach Resort – Universal’s fourth hotel – will have 900 rooms and 900 family suites (artist’s impression above). The first batch of 600 will be open from March 31 next year with a suite sleeping six people available for $174 a night – which is great value working out at about £20 per person. Highlights include a 10-lane bowling alley, two pools and Universal’s first hotel lazy river.
The expansion of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter due to open next year is starting to take shape. You’ll be able to travel between ‘London’ and Hogsmeade aboard the Hogwarts Express!
Visit www.universalorlando.com
Virgin Holidays offers seven nights room-only at the 5V Loews Pacific Royal Resort, with return fights from Gatwick based on departures on January 21 and car hire from £819 per person. Entry to Gatwick airport v-room costs £20 an adult, £12 a child.
