Universal Orlando Resort is a world-class theme park destination that promises unforgettable experiences for visitors of all ages. From thrilling rides and magical attractions to immersive themed lands, Universal Orlando has something for everyone. 

Planning a trip to this vast resort can be overwhelming without proper guidance.  Here are 10 things you need to know before visiting Universal Orlando including ways to simplify your planning for yourself.

Plan Your Visit in Advance:

Universal Orlando is a popular destination, and its popularity often leads to significant crowds. To make the most of your trip, plan your visit well in advance. Consider factors like peak seasons, special events, and park hours to optimize your itinerary.  Planning in advance will also help you get the best prices.  

Choose the Right Time to Visit:

To avoid large crowds, it's recommended to visit Universal Orlando during weekdays or during off-peak seasons, such as early fall. This will give you a better chance to experience shorter lines and more manageable wait times for attractions.  If your only option to go is during peak crowds...no worries!  The Universal Unlimited Express pass is key for avoiding lines and optimizing your time there.

Research and Familiarize Yourself with the Parks:

Universal Orlando consists of two main theme parks: Universal Studios Florida and Universal's Islands of Adventure. Take the time to research and familiarize yourself with each park's layout, attractions, and shows. This knowledge will help you make the most of your time and ensure you don't miss any must-see experiences.  Each park has its own themed attractions, with the exception of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.  This fantastical area of Universal Orlando spans across both parks and is a must-see even for those who are not huge Harry Potter fans.  

Purchase Tickets in Advance:

Avoid long lines at the ticket booths by purchasing your tickets in advance. Consider purchasing multi-day Park-to-Park passes to explore both parks thoroughly. Keep an eye out for special offers, combo tickets, or packages that can provide additional savings.  A travel agent can let you know what deals are available and help you choose the best package for your needs.  

Utilize Express Passes:

Universal Unlimited Express pass is a game-changer in terms of saving time and being able to do more.  This can be added to any ticket or comes as a complimentary perk for staying at one of Universal Orlando's Premier Resorts.

Stay On-Site at a Universal Orlando Resort Hotel:

Staying on-site at a Universal Orlando Resort hotel offers several advantages, such as early park admission and complimentary transportation to the parks. Additionally, you'll enjoy the convenience of being closer to the action, allowing for more flexibility during your visit.  If you stay at a Premier Resort, you will also get the Universal Unlimited Express pass to use during your stay.

Plan for Rest and Recharge:

Universal Orlando can be an exhilarating and action-packed experience. Be sure to schedule breaks throughout the day to rest, hydrate, and recharge. Take advantage of shows, dining experiences, or relaxing spots within the parks to unwind.  In addition, when you stay on property, you're able to easily go back to your resort, relax by the pool, then head back out to the parks later in the day.  

Research Dining Options:

Universal Orlando offers a wide range of dining options to suit all tastes and preferences. Research and make dining reservations in advance to ensure you can experience the restaurants you desire. Consider trying some unique dining experiences, such as the famous Butterbeer at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Lunchtime is busy at the Universal Orlando parks, even quick service.  Lines can be long and indoor seating sparse, which can be problematic in the Florida heat when you're looking for a place to cool off and relax.  I highly recommend making a reservation at a full-service restaurant for lunch or eating at City Walk where you typically don't need a reservation.

Familiarize Yourself with Height Restrictions:

If you're visiting Universal Orlando with children, familiarize yourself with the height restrictions for rides and attractions. This will help manage expectations and avoid disappointment when certain experiences are inaccessible due to height requirements.

Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2023 Universal Studios. All rights reserved.

The Importance of Booking with a Travel Agent:

When planning a trip to Universal Orlando, booking with a travel agent can be a game-changer. Here's why:

Expert Knowledge: 

Travel agents have extensive knowledge about Universal Orlando, including park layout, attractions, and special offers. They can guide you in creating a personalized itinerary based on your interests and preferences.

Time and Money Savings: 

Travel agents have access to exclusive deals, discounts, and promotions that may not be available to the general public. They can help you find the best prices for tickets, accommodations, and transportation, saving you both time and money.

Stress-Free Experience: 

A travel agent can handle all the details of your trip, from booking accommodations and tickets to arranging transportation and dining reservations. They alleviate the stress of planning, allowing you to focus on enjoying your vacation.

Insider Tips and Recommendations: 

Travel agents can provide valuable insider tips, such as the best times to visit attractions, hidden gems within the parks, and dining recommendations. Their expertise ensures you don't miss out on any must-see experiences.

Visiting Universal Orlando can be an incredible adventure filled with magical moments and thrilling experiences. By following these ten essential tips, you'll be well-prepared to make the most of your trip. Additionally, consider the advantages of booking with a travel agent, who can offer expert guidance, save you time and money, and enhance your overall vacation experience. So, start planning your Universal Orlando adventure today, and get ready to create lifelong memories in this enchanting theme park paradise.

The Unmatched Sandals Experience

Sandals Resorts, with their adults-only ambiance, offer a retreat designed exclusively for couples seeking unparalleled luxury. With 16 exceptional properties spread across the Caribbean, Sandals Resorts have perfected the art of all-inclusive vacationing. Each resort boasts its own unique personality, blending breathtaking locations with world-class amenities, such as private butler service, unlimited gourmet dining options, and top-tier entertainment.

Sandals offers 6 Jamaican resorts, 2 in the Bahamas, 3 in St. Lucia, 2 in Barbados, and 1 in each Antigua, Grenada, and Curacao.  Each resort has it's own unique features, so you can find the perfect one for you and your loved one.  

Sandals is an ideal honeymoon location, as well as for couples looking for a kid-free getaway, or engaged couples wanting an all-inclusive wedding experience for themselves and their guests.  

The Family-Friendly Beaches Resorts

For families in search of an unforgettable vacation, Beaches Resorts provide the ultimate playground. These resorts combine the beauty of stunning beachfront locations with a wide array of amenities and activities for guests of all ages. From water parks and kids' clubs to themed restaurants and exciting water sports, Beaches Resorts ensure that every member of the family creates lasting memories. With three magnificent resorts across Jamaica and Turks and Caicos, Beaches Resorts offer a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Unrivaled Locations

Sandals and Beaches Resorts pride themselves on their idyllic locations. From the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea to the lush tropical landscapes, each resort is situated in a breathtaking setting. Whether you're dreaming of an overwater bungalow in the Caribbean or a beachfront suite with stunning sunset views, Sandals and Beaches Resorts have the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable vacation.

Choose a larger resort with an onsite golf course, or choose a smaller resort with a boutique resort feel...a quiet resort that feels intimate, or a larger resort with a party scene...with so many resorts to pick from, you are sure to find the perfect one for you. 

Luxury Meets Affordability

One might assume that such luxury comes with an exorbitant price tag. However, Sandals and Beaches Resorts offer a range of accommodations and packages to suit various budgets. Remember that both resorts are all-inclusive, meaning everything from food to drinks to activities is included in the price.  From standard rooms to luxurious suites and villas with butler service to swim-up rondavels and over-the-water bungalows (also with butler service included), guests can find options that fit their preferences and price range. Moreover, Sandals Resorts offer a "Stay at One, Play at All" program, enabling guests to enjoy the amenities of multiple resorts during their stay, adding even more value to their vacation.

Impeccable Service

One of the defining features of Sandals and Beaches Resorts is their unwavering commitment to providing exceptional service. Each property is staffed by a team of dedicated professionals trained to anticipate and cater to guests' every need. From the moment you step foot on the property, you'll be greeted with warm smiles and treated like royalty throughout your stay. Sandals and Beaches Resorts pride themselves on going above and beyond to ensure a truly memorable experience for their guests.

Sandals Wedding Services

Sandals Resorts not only excel in providing exceptional vacations but also offer an unrivaled experience for couples seeking a picture-perfect destination wedding. With stunning settings and world-class amenities, Sandals Resorts have become synonymous with dream weddings. Whether you envision an intimate beach ceremony, a charming garden wedding, or an opulent celebration in a grand ballroom, Sandals Resorts offer a variety of wedding venues to suit every couple's vision. From the initial planning stages to the moment you say "I do," Sandals' team of experienced wedding specialists will assist you in creating a truly magical and personalized wedding experience. With their attention to detail and commitment to creating unforgettable moments, Sandals Resorts are the ideal choice for couples looking to start their journey of love in the most romantic and luxurious setting imaginable.

Sandals and Beaches Resorts are the epitome of luxury, offering a vacation experience like no other. With their impressive collection of resorts, stunning locations, unparalleled service, and a range of accommodations to suit various budgets, these premier all-inclusive resorts have set a new standard for excellence. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or a fun-filled family vacation, Sandals and Beaches Resorts are the ultimate destinations to create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Reach out to me to book your escape to paradise and indulge in the unmatched luxury of Sandals and Beaches Resorts. My husband and I have experienced multiple locations and have not been disappointed.  Each trip has been glorious!  Experience for yourself the pinnacle of all-inclusive excellence today!

Your Ultimate Guide to All-Inclusive Resorts

Discover the epitome of a worry-free vacation at all-inclusive resorts, where every detail is meticulously taken care of, from lavish accommodations to exquisite dining, thrilling activities, and captivating entertainment. Planning such an unforgettable getaway may seem daunting, but fear not! By leveraging the expertise of a travel agent, you can unlock the true potential of all-inclusive resorts, as a travel agent will set you up for a seamless and unforgettable experience.

Unveiling the Magic of All-Inclusive Resorts

All-inclusive resorts serve as an idyllic escape, providing you with a one-stop solution and a stress-free vacation. These carefully curated destinations offer a plethora of amenities bundled into one convenient package, encompassing accommodations, meals, beverages, activities, and entertainment. With options ranging from tropical havens in the Caribbean to exotic retreats in Southeast Asia, all-inclusive resorts cater to diverse preferences and budgets, making them an irresistible choice for couples, families, and solo adventurers alike.  

My personal favorite, and customers' personal favorite, all-inclusive resorts are Sandals and Beaches Resorts.  Sandals resorts are couple-only and Beaches Resorts are family-oriented, and with locations all around the Caribbean, there is a resort for everyone.  You can read more about this luxury all-inclusive brand in this post.  

Benefits of All-Inclusive Resorts

Unmatched Convenience: 

All-inclusive resorts eliminate the hassles of travel planning, as everything is included in a single package. Once you've booked, you can sit back, relax, and fully immerse yourself in the vacation experience.

Incredible Value: 

Though all-inclusive resorts may appear costlier initially, they often deliver exceptional value for money. Considering that meals, drinks, activities, and entertainment are bundled together, the overall cost tends to be more affordable compared to individual bookings.

Versatility and Flexibility: 

All-inclusive resorts boast an extensive range of activities and amenities to suit various interests and age groups. Whether you seek rejuvenation by the pool, exhilarating water sports, spa indulgences, or cultural expeditions, there's something to captivate every traveler.

Peace of Mind: 

Safety and security are paramount when venturing to new destinations. All-inclusive resorts are renowned for their stringent safety protocols, ensuring guests feel protected and at ease throughout their stay.

The Role of a Travel Agent

Booking your all-inclusive resort experience through a travel agent can elevate it to unparalleled heights. 

Expert Knowledge and Personalized Recommendations: 

Travel agents possess extensive knowledge about different resorts, destinations, and available amenities. They can guide you in selecting the ideal resort that aligns with your preferences, whether you desire a romantic haven, a family-friendly escape, or an adventure-filled retreat.

Time and Stress Savings: 

Researching all-inclusive resorts can be a time-consuming and overwhelming task. By entrusting the planning process to a travel agent, you can save valuable time and alleviate stress. Travel agents handle all logistics, including bookings and transfers, and ensure your preferences and special requests are accommodated.

Exclusive Deals and Upgrades: 

Travel agents often have access to exclusive deals, discounts, and value-added extras that can enhance your all-inclusive resort experience. They can secure room upgrades, spa credits, or even provide special access to resort amenities, ensuring you make the most of your vacation.

24/7 Support: 

In the event of unforeseen circumstances or emergencies during your trip, having a travel agent to rely on can offer peace of mind. They can provide assistance and support, making necessary arrangements or changes as required.

All-inclusive resorts provide the ultimate combination of convenience, relaxation, and adventure, offering a stress-free vacation experience. However, to optimize your enjoyment and ensure every aspect of your trip is flawlessly executed, booking with a travel agent is essential. With their expertise, personalized recommendations, and access to exclusive deals, travel agents can transform your all-inclusive resort getaway into an extraordinary and unforgettable experience. Don't miss out on the magic—enlist the assistance of a travel agent today and embark on the vacation of a lifetime.

Learn about Sandals and Beaches All Inclusive Resorts

My family and I just returned from a trip to Universal Orlando, and we had such a fun time. Universal Orlando has so much excitement planned for the remainder of 2023, it's time to get you there to be a part of it! With two theme parks, Universal Orlando and Islands of Adventure PLUS the most thrilling water park in Florida, Volcano Bay, you and your family will be entertained for days!

Accommodations

There are 8 different hotels to choose from right on the property, with one to fit every budget. This is incredibly convenient and staying on site comes with a number of perks. Do you want the added bonus of Express Unlimited Pass? Don't worry, three of the on-site hotels offer the pass just by staying with them (we stayed at Loews Royal Pacific which offers the Express Unlimited Pass, and let me tell you...it was well worth it!).


ALL Universal hotels have the convenience of on-site transportation and early park admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter daily. Do you have a larger family? Universal offers so many options for larger families...there is a room to fit every family size.

Seasonal Events

This Fall you can experience the horror while visiting Halloween Horror Nights inside of Universal Studios. This separately ticketed event is for guests who can handle the thrills inside the haunted houses and who do not fright easily, meaning this is not recommended for younger children. But, since this is a separate event, you can still enjoy the parks until the party starts later in the evening if Fall travel works best for you.

During the holiday season, starting in November, you can enjoy special holiday offerings like Grinchmas, the holiday parade presented by Macy's, VIP events, and more.

Book with me for a Special Offer

Make this happen for your family in 2023 with an added bonus from my agency. For all new bookings that check in by December 31, 2023, Bernbach Travel will give you a gift certificate at the time of travel to use while at the parks and resorts. Please see the information below and contact me today to take advantage of this exclusive travel deal.

Gift Card Bonus