Before you pack your bags and hop on a plane to Universal Orlando, there's one crucial thing you should do: separate the wheat from the chaff when it comes to advice about the resort! The internet is flooded with tips, tricks, and advice on how to make the most of your Universal Orlando experience, but not all of it is golden. In fact, some of the advice floating around is so off the mark that following it could turn your dream vacation into a bit of a nightmare. So, buckle up and get ready as we embark on a journey to uncover the absolute worst advice I've ever heard about Universal Orlando Resort. We'll delve into the misconceptions, debunk the myths, and make sure you're well-prepared for a magical and seamless trip.
Bad Tip #1: "You Don't Need Park to Park Tickets"
A lot of people think that park to park tickets are only important if you want to ride the Hogwarts Express, but this is not true! The Universal parks are so close that it is really easy to walk between them to revisit your favorite attractions, restaurants, etc. The vast majority of Universal guests who purchase base tickets end up upgrading to park to park tickets in the parks which is more expensive than just buying park to park tickets to start with!
Bad Tip #2: "Express Passes Aren't Worth the Added Expense"
Universal's Express Pass system allows you to skip the regular line at most rides and attractions. Express Pass can also be used on demand: no scheduling required. So having this perk is one of the best ways to spend less time waiting in line and more time doing exactly what you want to do! Whether you add this perk by staying at a premier level hotel or purchase it as a ticket add-on, I have always found Express Pass to be a worthwhile investment for my family.
Portofino Bay, shown above, is one of 3 premier onsite hotels that offer Unlimited Express Pass included in the cost of your stay.
Bad Tip #3: "There's Nothing There for Little Kids"
Although Universal has plenty of attractions for teens and adults, younger kids aren't left out by any means! There are sections of the parks themed after Dr. Seuss, Marvel, class comic strips, and more! Plus Harry Potter and Jurassic World appeal to all age groups! Add to that the option to meet characters like Hello Kitty, Minions, and Trolls and there's plenty there to keep young kids entertained.
Bad Tip #4: "Wait Until There's a Promotion to Book"
If you wait until there is a promotion to book, it's possible that the resort you want may be booked up for your dates. I suggest booking your vacation package as soon as possible and, if a better deal comes out, your travel agent can always apply it for you (I actively monitor for new discounts for my clients and often apply it before they even know it's available). If you book on your own, you can call Universal's call center and have them apply it for you as well.
Bad Tip #5: "It Doesn't Matter Where You Stay"
Most people underestimate how tired they will be after a day in the parks and how important it is to be able to get back to your hotel quickly and easily. Aside from convenience, onsite hotel guests also get perks like early park admission and premier properties also include Unlimited Express Passes in the cost of your stay.
Bad Tip #6: "Don't Book with a Travel Agent"
Booking through a travel agent doesn't mean that you give up control of the planning process or that you pay more than someone who books directly on Universal's website. It means that you pay the exact same price as what Universal has posted online, but you have someone in your corner to give advice, monitor for discounts, keep track of deadlines, and step in if something goes wrong. You can handle as much or as little of the planning as you want and your agent is there as a guide and a resource all along the way!
In the world of travel advice, separating fact from fiction is no small feat. I hope this post has served as a reliable guide to ensure your Universal Orlando adventure is nothing short of magical. Remember, your vacation should be filled with excitement, wonder, and unforgettable memories, not frustration and disappointment. As you gear up for your visit to Universal Orlando Resort, feel free to reach out to me for a quote and to learn more about my free planning services. I offer my clients touring tips built on my wealth of experience in the parks as well as recommendations that are specific to their individuals needs. After all, the best advice you'll ever receive is the kind that suits your unique interests and desires!
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