What’s New for 2023 and 2024 in Orlando

In 2023 in 2024 there will be lots of new things to do on your Florida Holiday. Whether you are returning for another year of Orlando fun or visiting for the first time in 2023/ 2024, there will be something new for everyone to enjoy.
 

Deciding on the right accommodation on your Florida holidays 2024 is essential, one of our most popular accommodation options for Orlando is an Orlando Villa in the Disney area. Orlando villas offer guests plenty of their own space, free parking, a private pool, a dining room, a kitchen, a family lounge area, and the use of the Villa Resort amenities like a clubhouse pool. Some of our most popular Orlando Villa Resorts are Emerald Island Resort, Champions Gate Resort, Solterra Resort, and Windsor Hills Resort Orlando to name a few. However, on your 2023/ 2024 Orlando holiday some guests might prefer a hotel that is not self-catered, again there are many hotel options when staying in Orlando in 2023/ 2024: some of our favourite hotels in Orlando are The Grove, Cabana Bay, The Hard Rock Hotel Universal Orlando, Disney's Port Orleans Resort, Disney's Wilderness Lodge, and The Rosen Inn among others. One additional benefit of staying in One of the following three Universal Resort Hotels, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Royal Pacific Resort, is that you will have access to Free Unlimited Express Passes when you visit the universal theme parks. This is a very popular option for guests visiting during peak times like the Summer School Holidays, Easter, and Christmas.

In 2023 and 2024 there will be new rides and attractions at Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort. At Walt Disney World guests can expect a whole host of new rides, attractions, and restaurants; in 2023 the main new ride being featured at Walt Disney World is TRON Lightcycle Run, and in 2024 there will be a reimagining of Splash Mountain that will see it turned into Tiana's Bayou Adventure. There is also rumoured expansion behind Big Thunder Mountain to include new lands and attractions. For those who haven't visited Universal Orlando Resort in a couple of years, in 2023 and 2024 you will notice a few new rides: Jurassic World VelociCoaster and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. However, Universal Orlando Resort’s big new addition will be coming in 2025: Universal’s Epic Universe.

Guests who haven't visited Orlando since before 2020 will also be able to visit the new Margaritaville Orlando Resort on their 2023/ 2024 Orlando Holiday. Margaritaville Resort in Orlando is a great option for both accommodation and entertainment; it is home to Cottages which are very similar to an Orlando Villa as they are their own private, self-contained unit and sometimes have their own pool, however guests are also able to use the hotel complex’s amenities such as restaurants and the pool. Right next to Margaritaville is Sunset Walk - Sunset Walk is a new hub of shopping, entertainment, and dining in Orlando only 20 minutes from Walt Disney World.

There are constantly new things to do and see in Orlando, so booking your 2023 and 2024 Florida holidays early is essential... especially if you are planning on travelling during peak times like the Summer School Holidays, Christmas, and Easter. To help you plan your ideal Orlando 2024 holiday why not call Charter Travel on 01635 551011 and talk to one of our Travel Consultants who can help you plan your perfect 2023/ 2024 Florida Holiday that will suit your family, your budget, and your requirements.

Twin centre New York holidays

Twin centre New York holidays are an ideal way to make the most of your time in the USA. New York is a great city break, whether that is at Christmas Time, during the Summer, or to see the leaves change in the Autumn. However, to make this holiday even better why not twin your New York holiday with a secondary destination. 

In New York you can visit bucket list sites such as Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Rockefeller centre, the Brooklyn Bridge, and much more. Staying in Times Square is ideal as you will be right in the heart of all the New York City action. There are plenty of accommodation options in New York but some of our favourite in Times Square are the Riu Plaza and the DoubleTree by Hilton. These two hotels are amazingly located and won't break the bank! From your hotel in Times Square you can easily walk down Fifth Avenue to Central Park; if you're visiting in this summer then strolling around Central Park is an ideal way to spend a day in New York- you can visit the Central Park Zoo or sample a hot dog from the iconic hot dog vendors. If you are visiting in the autumn then Central Park becomes extremely multi coloured and you can see the New York City skyline alongside the beautiful red and brown leaves, and if you are visiting at Christmas you absolutely must go ice skating in Central Park for views of the New York skyscrapers.

 

Whilst in New York be sure to hop in a yellow taxi and drive across the Brooklyn Bridge and find a rooftop bar in Brooklyn where you can see the Manhattan skyline, the Brooklyn Bridge and even the Statue of Liberty. If you want an up-close view of the Statue of Liberty, then hop on a boat to Liberty Island where you can see Lady Liberty herself and climbed to the top if you wish. For dramatic views over the city itself you have two great options: the Empire State Building or The Top of The Rock at Rockefeller Centre - If you are visiting over Christmas then be sure to check out the iconic New York Christmas tree at Rockefeller Centre as well.

Once you have spent a couple of days or even a week in New York then it is time to move onto your twinned destination: our favourite destinations to choose from are San Francisco, Boston, Los Angeles, and if you're travelling with your family then Orlando.

First off is our New York and San Francisco, here you will want to stay at Fisherman’s Wharf for the best views out over the San Francisco Bay, of the Golden Gate Bridge, and of Alcatraz Island. there are many budget and luxury hotel options at Fisherman’s Wharf, for example The Argonaut Is a great luxury option and The Zephyr Hotel is a great more budget friendly option. From Fisherman's Wharf you'll definitely want to rent a bike and ride up and over the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausalito where you can have some lunch before hopping back on the ferry over the Bay. Definitely a must visit in San Francisco is Alcatraz Island and Muir Woods National Monument – a forest of some of the oldest Redwood trees in California.

 

Another of California's great cities, Los Angeles, is a great twin centre with New York. In Los Angeles there is so much to do including visiting Disneyland California, Universal Studios Hollywood, and Six Flags Magic Mountain. Non theme park lovers will also want to spend time in LA, particularly great points of interest are the Hollywood Hill (which you can hike up if you want to), Walt Disney World concert hall, Venice beach and boardwalk, and Santa Monica pier which is just outside the city of Los Angeles. Santa Monica is a great town to visit and the pier is not only home to amazing restaurants and attractions but also just below it is the Santa Monica beach- a golden sand beach that rivals those in Malibu.

Boston is another great location to twin with New York, especially when visiting in autumn as New England is known for its beautiful autumn leaves and trees. When you visit Boston after New York, you'll be trading skyscrapers for seafood and history - Boston is known for its role in the American Revolution and history buffs can even walk the freedom trail for more insights into the city’s history. When you visit Boston, you might want to stay at the iconic Boston harbour, for example at the Regency Boston Harbour, and sample some of the city’s most delicious seafood! Boston is also a great hub for visiting other areas in New England for example Salem and Cape Cod.

If your New York twin centre holiday is a family holiday, then you might want to consider visiting Orlando as your second destination. Orlando is home to the iconic Walt Disney World and Universal Resort Orlando, where there are plenty of family friendly and also thrilling rides; For example, at Walt Disney World a family favourite is Big Thunder Mountain and Star Wars Rise of the Resistance. Universal Orlando Resort is perfect for the thrill seeking among you with rides like the all-new Jurassic World VelociCoaster! When staying in Orlando you might want to stay in an Orlando Villa to have some private family time in your own private pool, dining room, Kitchen and living room.

Whichever destination you wish to pair with New York on your twin centre holiday, Charter Travel are here to help you plan and organise your perfect New York twin centre holiday, that meets your bucket list but also

Walt Disney World and Universal Studios Orlando

Magical adventures at Walt Disney World and Universal Studios Orlando are waiting for you in 2023. From all new rides, restaurants and lands…there is something new for everyone to explore, as well as their old favourites, in 2023.

Walt Disney World has some amazing new attractions ready for 2023 - Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge is Hollywood Studios’ newest land, filled with so much to do and see. Along with new eateries and shops, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and Millennium Falcon Smugglers Run are Galaxy’s Edge’s show stopping rides that you absolutely have to experience in 2023. A third addition to Hollywood Studio is Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway ride that uses Disney’s all-new trackless technology! For 2023, EPCOT is gaining the long-awaited Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, a fabulous new hybrid roller coaster, and Magic Kingdom will be opening TRON Lightcycle Run Roller Coaster in 2023!

Universal Resort Orlando also has new attractions to explore! In Islands of Adventure, you will find the seriously scary VelociCoaster, which is NOT for the faint-hearted, and the fantastical Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. A ride that has stunned guests with its fabulous never-before-seen technology! An old favourite at Universal Studios, Revenge of the Mummy, will also undergo a massive make-over and refurbishment for 2023…so be sure to ride this indoor coaster and see what new additions Universal have added!

Whilst on your Florida holidays 2023 there are plenty of both cheap hotels and luxury hotels to choose from at Walt Disney World and Universal Resort Orlando. A great Value hotel option at Walt Disney World that has undergone refurbishment for 2023 is Disney’s All Star Movies & Music resorts. These are two great cheap hotel options at Walt Disney World for 2023! For a more luxury hotel option at Walt Disney World why not try one of Disney’s Deluxe resorts, like Disney’s Grand Floridian, in 2023! Universal Resort Orlando also has some amazing cheap hotel options, such as their Value hotels Universal's Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites & Dockside Inn and Suites which offer excellent family accommodations in Orlando. For a more luxury hotel option at Universal for your 2023 holiday, why not try one of their Preferred hotels such as Loews Sapphire Falls Resort or their Premier hotels, such as Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel®, and Loews Royal Pacific Resort! Universal’s Premier hotels also offer guests free Unlimited Fast Passes with a purchased theme park ticket!

Santa Barbara Holidays

When it comes to a Santa Barbara holidays, the first things that comes to mind are its gorgeous beaches and soaking up in the sun. However, the so-called “America Riviera” has more to offer. Santa Barbara is situated at the foot of the Santa Ynez Mountains and California’s coastline. The city boasts several historic landmarks, picturesque hiking trails, miles of sandy coastline, and upscale boutiques. Unfortunately, many visitors mistake the Mediterranean-style town to revolve around the sea and sand. However, there is so much the city has to offer to people of all interests.

Here are some things to do during Santa Barbara Holidays.
Take a Hike to Inspiration Point
One of the most popular activities to enjoy as a family in Santa Barbara is hiking. Enjoy a hike with the whole family to Inspiration Point for a breathtaking encounter with nature. There are two different hike trails to choose from to reach the Inspiration point. The shorter trail is about 3.5 miles to and fro and starts on an easily paved road for almost a mile before reaching the steeper point. Jesusita Trail is a longer trail and stretches for about 7 miles with steep points in some parts. Hiking to Inspiration point makes for an exciting family adventure in Santa Barbara.

Buy Fresh Seafood at the Stearns Wharf
Buying fresh fish at the Stearns Wharf is one of the exciting things to do as a family during the Santa Barbara Holidays. So, if you feel like relishing some fresh homemade seafood, go to Stearns Wharf early in the morning and wait for fishing boats to unload their catch. Have fun with the family choosing and buying fresh fish straight from the boat. It is cheaper, and you get to enjoy choosing your food. There is also wine tasting, an aquarium for kids, and plenty of other activities around the harbor. We do not recommend staying past mid-morning since it tends to get crowded with tourists.

Go for Santa Barbara Classic Wine Tours
One of the surprising things about Santa Barbara is the number of wineries based in the town. Although there are many tours available, we suggest that you go for the Santa Barbara classic wine tours. Both locals and tourists tend to commend the tours guides, food, and wine. It usually takes up to 11 participants and goes through at least three different vineyards for wine tastings, and when there is time to spare, an extra of olive tasting. In addition, the tour includes a picnic lunch at one of the vineyards. Some of the vineyards you should expect to visit include; The Brander Vineyard and Roblar Winery and Vineyards. You can book your tour any day of the week. Tip; There are different Santa Barbara Wine Tours, and each tour offers a different take on what makes Santa Barbara vino outstanding.

Enjoy Seafood at East Beach Grill Restaurant
If you have been considering what beaches to visit in California with the least crowds, then you probably know that East beach is perhaps the least likely to be crowded. We recommend enjoying a family meal at the East Beach Grill after spending the afternoon swimming, playing beach games, and soaking in the California sun. The East Beach grill is a remarkably family-friendly restaurant with generations of regular customers. Sample some of the restaurant’s seafood and other delectable dishes on the menu.

Top 5 Things to Do in Santa Monica

Relax in the great outdoors with a holiday trip to Santa Monica. Dubbed California’s Boho beach city, Santa Monica is notorious for its sandy beaches, bustling city scene, vibrant nightlife, and sunny tourist attractions.

Santa Monica’s beach was once voted amongst the best globally by National Geographic. In addition, the city boasts over 400 restaurants and an overwhelming number of bars on the night scene, making it one of the significant holiday stopovers in California.

Santa Monica is a beehive for family holiday fun activities like soaking up the sun at the beach, swimming, setting up picnics, enjoying a meal at family-friendly restaurants, and learning new things. Here are the top activities you can do in Santa Monica during the holidays.

Top Things to Do in Santa Monica

Go to Santa Monica State Beach
In 3.5 miles of shoreline, you get to enjoy a fun holiday enjoying the countless fun activities Santa Monica State Beach has to offer for the family. One of the top activities to do in Santa Monica is going to the State Beach with family and spending the day enjoying water sports, strolling around the beach, building sandcastles, and relaxing in the sun.

Find some unique amenities like the Original Muscle Beach, a beach park with old-fashioned gym equipment from the early 20th century.

 

Ride a Bike on the Marvin Braude Beach Trail
Santa Monica’s sunny weather and wealth of trails make it an all-year-round dream destination for cycling enthusiasts. Discover the Marvin Braude Trail, also known as “The Strand,” amongst the locals at the heart of Santa Monica and enjoy a bike ride through the city’s picturesque streets.

Some of the streets you might encounter include Main Street and San Vincente Boulevard.

Visit the Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica Pier is the city’s most famous landmark. If you are moved with the children, the Pier is one of the destinations we recommend. The Pier offers a wide range of fun activities to do with families, like enjoying a ride at the roller coaster, perhaps the Ferris wheel in Pacific park, exciting games, shopping, street music, and bike riding.

Pick up a souvenir for each family at one of the beach shops or souvenir shops to have something to remind you of your fun experiences at this destination. The Pier also has a rich history that you can learn about and a world-famous boardwalk where you can all enjoy a walk with the family and do some people-watching.

 

Visit the Pacific Park and the Heal the Bay Aquarium
Take the kids to the Pacific Park and enjoy the different rides, including the roller coaster and the colorful Ferris wheel. Pacific Park is an amusement park fronting the ocean.

Circle around the Pier on the only solar-powered Ferris wheel in the world, play one of the classic games like Whac-A-Mole and enjoy the day. Learn about the aquatic life in Santa Monica Bay at Heal the Bay Aquarium and see exhibits of over 100 local species. In addition, their aquarium offers daily educational programs like discussions with aquarium scientists and animal feedings.

Shop at Third Street Promenade
Take a stroll downtown with family and have fun shopping at this uniquely California shopping hub in a traffic-free part of the city. The Third Street Promenade is an open-air shopping, dining, and doing some urban sightseeing space. It offers three blocks of shops, eateries, and stores where you will encounter familiar retail outlets, chain restaurants, and local businesses in an outdoorsy shopping space.

San Francisco Holidays

Known as the “City of Bay,” San Francisco is a popular tourist destination. It is a cultural, financial, and commercial center in Northern California. The city is known for its hills, the Golden Gate Bridge, Pier 39, Alcatraz Island, and other attractions and landmarks.

San Francisco boasts a great many attractions for all kinds of people. There is something for everyone in the city, from curious wanderers to food enthusiasts and outdoorsy people.

Top Things to Do During San Francisco Holidays

Seeing the Golden Gate Bridge

Existing as one of the wonders of the modern world, the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge is a must-see. When the bridge was commissioned in 1937, it was the longest suspension bridge ever created.

It is said to be the most photographed bridge globally, with six lanes of traffic. See and cross over this historic bridge during your San Francisco Holiday.

The bridge replaced the Golden State Ferry Company that used to transport people between the two places built. The company was once the largest ferry company worldwide.

Visiting the Fisherman’s Wharf

Head to San Francisco’s waterfront at the Fisherman’s Wharf, the city’s most waterfront community. Enjoy some of the finest dinings the world has to offer, coupled with some unforgettable dishes.

San Francisco is known for its restaurants and being home to some of the best chefs in the country. Purchase some fresh Dungeness crab or enjoy the freshest fish from the day’s catch at one of the countless gourmet restaurants. Enjoy a walk or a boat ride after your meal and explore the rest of the waterfront.

Exploring Alcatraz Island

Initially developed as a military fort, prison, and Federal prison, Alcatraz Island is fascinating. It is most famously known as a federal prison where they would take prisoners that were always making trouble and lock them up. The prison has housed some infamous prisoners, including Robert Franklin Stroud and Al Capone. It was turned into a tourist allure, and millions of people now visit the Island to explore the depths of the fortification.

Hiking to the Top of the Twin Peaks

The Twin Peaks of Francisco is a popular tourist attraction because of the remarkable views of the Bay Area that can be witnessed from the top. Enjoy a hike to the top of the Twin Peaks. Enjoy a view of what San Francisco may have looked like before all the development it has gone through.

The Peaks were initially called “Los Pechos de la Choca,” which meant Breasts of the Maiden. They stand in line with each other at 922 feet. There is plenty of flora and fauna as you hike to the top of the Peaks.