Day 3 - Still Universal Orlando

Recommenced blogging 18/12/25. For the avid followers (Mum and Dad), there has been a notable delay in posting and a rapid catch up in days for a number of reasons which I am sure will become evident across subsequent posts. However, the day in Orlando was at best busy and neither Steve or I were sleeping particularly well. By the time we got back to the hotel, we were shattered and barely thought about brushing our teeth let along pulling out the laptop to blog. I am hoping my memory has not been fogged by congestion and I can do our days justice. 

Today was our final day at Universal Studios and Universal Islands of Adventure so it was all about making the most of the rides, drinking final Butterbeers and shopping. The cold I had felt I was trying to fight off since our arrival to Orlando, finally defeated me. Although, I feel pretty lucky as I don't think I have been as symptomatic as Belle. Steve and I didn't sleep well again so we optimised the time and headed into City Walk for a coffee and pastry. By the time we left Starbucks, there was already a crowd starting to head into Universal eager to find their place in the early morning entry queue.

The largely empty sidewalks for Universal City.

Early morning view of the park side of Universal.

Steve Joshua was really only in it for the few thriller roller coasters so couldn't justify the early rise, leaving Steve, Belle and I to head in.

Steve is very much not as scared as he is faking here.

Lisa: "Did you want a photo with Popeye Belle?"
Belle: "I don't know who Popeye is, but sure."

On previous trips, we had not had the pleasure of going on the Hogwarts Express between the two parks. This year we got lucky. It wasn't the most exciting "ride" I have ever ventured on, but it was a bit nostalgic for the Harry Potter movie lovers. 

And of course we did not miss the last chance to watch the light show on Hogwarts Castle after dark. I actually think it has been modified slightly. Some highlights below.

We didn't spend a lot of time in Suez Land, purely because the rides do not entertain Joshua and Isabelle anymore (and Steve for that matter). It is however a very pretty place to walk through especially at night. I have some photos below from the Whosville Christmas Tree Lot. This was honestly a great way to see the 3 days at Universal off. Even Joshua was brought to smiles by the twinkling Christmas Trees. I think we are all a bit relieved that tomorrow is a rest day.

I can't tell if this photo is a bit dramatic or nothing, but it is the only photo
we all had in front of the Universal World.