Showing posts with label Hogwarts. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Hogwarts. Show all posts

Saturday, July 27, 2013

The Wizarding World: Your Vicarious Experience, Part 2


Last post I started my tour of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Here is the second half.

Rides, Wands, and Hogwarts Castle


Further up the street you find a roller coaster: Flight of the Hippogriff. You heard it was family friendly. This is something everyone in your party can do.




While waiting in line, you find Hagrid's Hut.




And sneak a paparazzi picture of Buckbeak.



You sit and pull down a lap bar...then blast around the track! Family friendly? What was the lady thinking!? You were expecting a Mister Toad's Wild Ride, but you got something a step below Big Thunder Railroad! You scream in surprise and zoom around the track.



Behold! You have finally arrived at Hogwarts! And it's magnificent! The wait for this attraction is always long, because not only do you get to explore the castle, but board a one-of-a-kind ride: Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.



Friday, July 19, 2013

The Wizarding World: Your Vicarious Experience



Writerly Adventures


 Ever wanted to go to Harry Potter land in Universal in Orlando, Florida? Or have you already been? This is a very detailed vicarious experience for anyone who wants to go, or, who wants to go back.





Welcome to the World of Harry Potter


Congratulations! You made it to Universal's Islands of Adventure! Unfortunately there are SO many tall trees in Florida that despite your excitement, you can't even get a glimpse of Hogwarts until you've reached this bridge near the back of the park. This is an epic moment. Take a picture.



Travel a little further and you come to another bridge with a better view. This picture sums it all up.




Finally you've made it! Compared to the rest of the park, this section shines. It literally looks like you are stepping into another world.




On your right, you see the scarlet Hogwarts Express. The conductor there is hilarious and makes snide comments about "muggle technology." The train lets out a jet of steam.