The Polite Traveler

Exploring The Hogwarts Castle & Riding The Forbidden Journey Revised 4/2021 Recently, I visited Universal Orlando to celebrate a particularly special, benchmark birthday.  Heck, for a woman, every birthday is special.  That aside, as a serious Potter Head, I especially wanted to immerse myself in the Harry Potter experience.  (Please  read  all my travel and reviews on this park) Note : Follow CDC and park guidelines.  Wear a mask at all times. Most HP fans are drawn to the Hogwarts Castle like a moth to a flame and I was no different.  The castle is amazing and true to the books and movies.  Also true to the movie, “Goblet of Fire” is the Forbidden Journey ride found inside the castle/school.  Because of the ride, and the magnificent replica of the Hogwarts School, lines can be ridiculously long to enter.  Was it worth the long wait?  Follow along as I take you with me through the castle and ride. Watch : Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey Video from  iThemePark     

Four Hours Visiting The Grand Canyon Updated 4/2021 I have an idea why the Grand Canyon is called “Grand”.    I theorize it’s because “Awesome Canyon” sounds more like stoner talk.  Joking aside, it is quite awesome and grand.   Recently, I was lucky enough to have a few hours to gaze wide-eyed at our big hole in the ground.  Since we (hubby & I) had only four precious hours, please follow along with what I found most important to see.  Note : Follow CDC and all park guidelines when visiting.  Wear a mask and social distance.     First Stop The first place to stop for those with limited time would be the visitor’s center.  Don’t worry about missing it.  There are plenty of signs pointing the way.  There, we found information offering park rangers, giant exhibits (displaying the entire canyon, trip planners, canyon-related history, and science), and a movie theater.  The movie , Grand Canyon: A Journey of Wonder, is only 20 minutes, is free, and is full of fun facts and t