The Best of Orlando continued...

This one may take a while, because Disney has four parks as opposed to just two at Universal. So, we'll start with the most magical park: Magic Kingdom

Pirates of the Carribean: This indoor boat ride through pirate scenes makes you feel like you're in one of the movies (the audio-animatronic Captain Jack Sparrow is incredible!)  From a plunge in the dark, to Tortuga ramblings, to booming cannons, this is one piratey adventure you won't want to miss. Located in Adventureland.

Splash Mountain: Based on the old Disney movie Song of the South, Splash Mountain features Br'er Rabbit, Br'er Fox, and whole host of other cutesy talking and singing animals. But that's not the best part. Splash Mt. boasts three log flume drops, the final one a whopping 5 stories! My advice for this ride is that you may want to cover your hair if it's prone to frizziness like mine, especially if you sit in the front of the log, because you may get splashed. Probably not soaked, but sprinkled or splashed. Also, smile at the big drop; that's when they take your picture. Frontier Land.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: Gee, that's a mouthfull! This mild but fun roller coaster takes you through the gold mines of California, zooming over hills and cutting quick turns. Frontier Land.

Mickey's Philhar-Magic: One of the best 3-D shows ever. The first time we saw it, my sisters and I were reaching out for the objects that seemed to be floating towards us. Other senses get involved as well, such as water mists and dessert smells. Fantasy Land.

The Haunted Mansion: A slow ride through spook tour, with "happy haunts" at every corner. At one part, your "doom buggy" turns you to mirror to see both your reflection and that of a "hitch-hiking ghost" riding with you. (I once had one in my lap!) Liberty Square.

Space Mountain: This was closed for renovations last time I was there, but the first time I rode it, and it was a fun, zippy indoor roller coaster through the stars. By now, it's probably even better. Tomorrow Land.

Now, for Animal Kingdom:

Expedition Everest: This is the very best thing in the park.  A roller coaster ride through the Himalayas, and the Yeti is trying to get you. At one point, you almost go over Yeti-ripped track, then zoom backwards, and that is when you need to smile for the picture, I think.  A simply must-do. Located in Asia.

Kali River Rapids: A round raft ride through an Asian jungle. If you get hot during the day, ride this. You will, more than likely, get soaked. The drop at the end practically dips you in the river. Wear a rain poncho if you'd rather not walk around in wet undies. Asia.

Kilimanjaro Safari: Your safari guide drives your over-sized jeep around and you see real life African mammals.  Most of them are kept enclosed by cleverly hidden barriers, but I've heard of giraffes actually crossing the road.  Try to do this one earlier in the day, because that's when you'll most likely see more animals. Africa.