Life is An Adventure! Explore It Together!

Super Nintendo World Opens At Universal Studios Hollywood!

Amusement Parks

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February 17, 2023

Super Nintendo World™ opens at Universal Studios Hollywood, transporting guests into the Mushroom Kingdom for an immersive and interactive experience alongside Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach. The grand opening ceremony was attended by Nintendo’s Shigeru Miyamoto, Universal Studios Hollywood’s Scott Strobl, and enthusiastic fans.

Scott Strobl, Executive Vice President & General Manager, of Universal Studios Hollywood, expressed his excitement about the opening, calling it a dynamic moment in the park’s history and highlighting the partnership with Nintendo to create a highly immersive and interactive theme park experience.

Shigeru Miyamoto, Representative Director, and Fellow, Nintendo Co. Ltd., expressed his honor in working with Universal to bring the Mushroom Kingdom to life, hoping that people of all ages will enjoy the interactive surprises the land has to offer.

Super Nintendo World is a visually stunning land within Universal Studios Hollywood, featuring the groundbreaking “Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge” ride and a variety of interactive activities for the whole family. Themed dining and shopping options are also available, making it a game-changing addition to the theme park.

Once guests pass through the iconic green pipe, they embark on a journey filled with exploration and play. They enter Peach’s Castle and venture further into the vibrant Mushroom Kingdom. Super Nintendo World offers:

“Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge”: An advanced ride that combines augmented reality technology with projection mapping, allowing guests to compete in courses from the iconic Mario Kart video game series. The ride features stadium-style vehicles and head-mounted AR goggles, providing a unique and immersive experience. Guests can collect digital coins, defeat Team Bowser, and aim for the Golden Cup. The ride offers a variety of outcomes, ensuring a captivating and repeatable experience.
Mount Beanpole: A towering landmark at the heart of the land, serving as the entry queue for “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge.”
Bowser’s Castle: The centerpiece of Super Nintendo World, featuring a stunning sculpture of Bowser. This structure houses the signature ride, “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge.” Guests can explore the corridors and learn about Bowser’s plans to defeat Team Mario for the Golden Cup.
Power-Up Band™: Wearable wristbands that sync with the Universal Studios Hollywood app, enhancing the guest experience within Super Nintendo World. The bands allow guests to keep track of scores, collect digital coins, and unlock rewards. When riding “Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge,” guests can tap their Power-Up Band on the steering wheel to track their progress and compete with friends and family.

Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood offers an unforgettable adventure for fans of all ages, encouraging guests to beat their best scores and fully immerse themselves in the world of Mario and friends.

All-New 2022 Sea-Doo Switch Pontoon Boat Is A Game Changer!

News

Lisa Arneill

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August 12, 2021

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All-New 2022 Sea-Doo Switch Pontoon Boat Is A Game Changer!

Personal watercraft leader Sea-Doo today announced it is entering a new era with the introduction of the 2022 Sea-Doo Switch, an all-new pontoon boat that marries the spirit and fun of Sea-Doo with the incredible versatility and stability of a pontoon platform.

With families staying closer to home during the pandemic, sales of campers, boats, and cottages have increased significantly.

“Over the years, we have proven that BRP is able to disrupt the industry by creating new segments. Our team has done it once again with the Sea-Doo Switch, which will revolutionize the pontoon market. Switch is uniquely positioned to attract new entrants and a younger generation,” mentioned José Boisjoli, BRP’s President and CEO.

This is not a typical pontoon – the Switch is unlike anything that has ever hit the water, and it is built specifically to change the realities of what life on the water can be. The innovative and adaptable platform provides flexibility for all recreational water lovers with a completely new and modular design, ease of riding, and affordability.

“It’s a dynamic pontoon with the heart of a Sea-Doo, and its quick-change deck design can be completely re-configured to fit a solo fishing trip in the morning to a family picnic at noon, and a wakeboard session in the evening,” said Annick Lauzon, Director, Global Marketing, Sea-Doo and Ski-Doo at BRP.

Perhaps its biggest point of differentiation – other than its Rotax jet propulsion system and unique, Sea-Doo inspired handlebar steering system – is that the entire deck is made of configurable tiles. Only the helm is stationary, and the rest of the layout can be changed in seconds to accommodate any adventure with easy-on, easy-off LinQ quick-attach tiles. There are almost 100 options available, allowing people to add or remove seating, change table locations, and much more.

At its heart, this boat is designed with Sea-Doo DNA above and below the water. A tri-hull ensures that fun is at the heart of the experience, with stability and agility allowing people to lean into turns and carve through the water. It also adds that rush of excitement and a dynamic behavior people don’t get from a traditional pontoon and features the acclaimed Sea-Doo iBR (Intelligent Brake & Reverse) – making it the first-ever pontoon boat with brakes – which gives it one of the most intuitive docking experiences in the industry.

The Sea-Doo Switch starts at CDN$22,499, and also comes in two upgrade package options: the Cruise and the Sport, with lengths ranging from 13 to 21 feet. Each features ROTAX jet-drive power options from 100 to 230hp.

Toronto’s Ontario Place To Be Redeveloped As Year-Round Theme Park

News

Lisa Arneill

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July 30, 2021

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Toronto’s Ontario Place To Be Redeveloped As Year-Round Theme Park

It has been 9 years since Toronto’s iconic Ontario Place was been closed. Today the Ontario Government announced redevelopment plans for the waterfront space revealing that it would operate year-round and include pools, waterslides, a botanical garden, eight acres of free park and beaches; a larger redeveloped amphitheatre for live events and an adventure park with obstacle courses, ziplines, climbing walls and rentals for kayaks, and canoes.

“It will once again be the world-class destination that it was always meant to be,” said Premier Doug Ford, speaking at a press conference on Friday.

Opened in 1971, the park was closed to the public in 2012 after years of financial losses.

Three successful participants from the 2019 Call for Development process Therme Group, Live Nation and Écorécréo Group will help deliver an exciting, inclusive and family friendly experience that will play a key role in the province’s post-pandemic recovery, both as a tourism destination and as a display of Ontario’s strong cultural identity.

“As we mark the 50th anniversary of Ontario Place this year, there is no better time to bring this iconic destination back to life,” said Premier Ford. “By taking this first step with our world-class development partners, as well as the City of Toronto and Indigenous communities, we will deliver a renewed Ontario Place that provides year-round entertainment for all ages and interests. As we continue to engage and consult with the community, Ontario Place will realize its full potential as a long-term economic generator for the people of Ontario.”

The Ontario government noted that the redeveloped land will not include casinos or condos and the land will not be sold.

Ontario Place is an important part of this province’s history and the land will remain in the province’s land portfolio.

It will remain open to the public 365 days a year, with free public access and a waterfront experience that can be enjoyed by all.

Across the site, the public realm will be enhanced and brought up to modern standards. Key heritage and recreational features of the site will be retained and integrated into the redevelopment, including:

the Cinesphere
the pod complex
the marina
Trillium Park
the William G. Davis Trail

Protecting the iconic amphitheater lawns, the new venue will have an expanded capacity of 20,000 in the summer and close to 9,000 in the winter, offering a unique indoor/outdoor experience with retractable walls to accommodate events rain or shine.

Admission is expected to be free for children three and under, while the price for individual adults will be around $40.

An environmental and heritage review process will start this fall and likely extend into 2023. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2024, with completion sometime in or before 2030.

Winchester Mystery House Announces All-New Halloween Seasonal Event

News

Lisa Arneill

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July 29, 2021

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Winchester Mystery House Announces All-New Halloween Seasonal Event

Winchester Mystery House, one of America’s most celebrated haunted mansions, announced today that tickets are now available for All Hallows’ Eve, an all-new estate-wide Halloween event with both indoor and outdoor tours kicking off on Friday, September 10th. All Hallows’ Eve features the Lost in The House Tour, a theatrical paranormal investigative adventure and the family-friendly Jack O’ Lantern Trail. The Winchester Mystery House is also bringing back its popular projection-mapped light show that brings the house to life.

Halloween and haunt fans will be thrilled by the Lost in The House Tour, a brand-new theatrical paranormal investigative adventure. For the 98 years that the house has been open to the public, it has hosted paranormal investigators, mediums, and even master magicians looking for proof of the paranormal. During the Lost In The House Tour, guests will be guided through the hallways of the Estate in search of the home’s secrets.

Included in the All Hallows’ Eve ticket is the Jack O’ Lantern Trail. The trail features dozens of hand-carved Jack O’ Lanterns displays throughout the Victorian Gardens and the Lost in the House Light Show, a projection-mapped light show that uses the iconic front of the mansion as a canvas. The Jack O’ Lantern Trail is a great option for young families looking for a magical fall evening experience.

“Winchester Mystery House is a must-visit destination, especially as summer gives way to fall,” said Walter Magnuson, Winchester Mystery House General Manager. “The Lost in The House Tour takes its cue from the many revealing paranormal investigations we’ve hosted, going back all the way to Houdini’s historic visit in 1924. After the tour, our guests will be able to experience the illuminated Victorian Gardens in an all-new festive way that is sure to fill you and your family up with Halloween spirit!”

Guests can enjoy fall-themed food and drinks as well as Axe Throwing at the Stables, Sarah’s Attic Shooting Gallery, and the all-new Houdini’s Spirited Escape will be available for an additional fee. The Winchester Mystery House will also be offering daytime guided mansion and garden tours throughout the months of September and October complimented with autumn décor around the estate, making it the place to celebrate Halloween this fall.

All Hallows’ Eve starts September 10th and runs on select nights through October 31st. Tickets cost $64.99 for adults and $34.99 for kids. They are available now at winchestermysteryhouse.com/all-hallows-eve.

Walt Disney World Completes Cinderella’s Castle For 50th Anniversary!

Lisa Arneill

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July 23, 2021

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Walt Disney World Completes Cinderella’s Castle For 50th Anniversary!

“The World’s Most Magical Celebration” celebrating Walt Disney World Resorts’ 50th year anniversary begins Oct. 1, 2021. For the past few months, Disney has been dropping hints about some of the incredible celebrations they have planned for the celebration including nighttime spectaculars, new dining options, and some very cool collectibles.

Today they announced a new crest honoring the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort now adorns the Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom Park in Lake Buena Vista, Fla.

The crest completes the castle’s royal, EARidescent makeover, joining gold bunting, sparkling embellishments and other new enhancements.

This event, which will run for 18-months, will feature new experiences at the resort’s four theme parks and beyond, where shimmering EARidescent décor will appear as if by magic.

“Disney Enchantment” will take guests on a journey filled with adventure, wonder, and empowerment. Inspiring everyone to believe in magic, this evening extravaganza will feature music, enhanced lighting, stunning fireworks, and, for the first time, immersive projection effects that extend from Cinderella Castle down Main Street, U.S.A.

Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights 2021 Begins In September!

Lisa Arneill

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July 15, 2021

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Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights 2021 Begins In September!

Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights 2021 returns in September with experiences inspired by Netflix’s critically-acclaimed series The Haunting of Hill House, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, The Bride of Frankenstein Lives, and Beetlejuice.

Reincarnated as “Halloween Horror Nights” mazes, the imposing and mysterious Hill House eerily comes to life beckoning guests to embark on the dark journey experienced by the Crain family.

Iconic scenes from the Netflix series will be featured throughout the maze, including the omni-powerful Red Room – the heart of Hill House – and the infamous Hall of Statues, where deceptive powers overtake everyone who enters. Apparitions will appear around every corner, from William Hill – The Tall Man, whose towering stature overwhelms everyone he encounters; to The Ghost in the Basement, who feverishly crawls throughout the bowels of the House in search of his next victim; to The Bent-Neck Lady, whose disturbing scream and ghastly appearance invoke a constant state of unnerving dread.

“The Haunting of Hill House” mazes will test even the bravest guests as they attempt to escape the entanglement of the estate’s eternal stranglehold or succumb to the powerful forces of Hill House – leaving them to wander the endless halls forever…alone.

Classic films that have influenced the horror genre will come to life in two of the event’s disturbingly real haunted mazes – prepare for the return of the legendary Leatherface in “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” and the resurrection of one of Universal Pictures’ most iconic monsters – the Bride of Frankenstein – in “Universal Monsters: The Bride of Frankenstein Lives.”

At its core, Halloween Horror Nights is an extension of the horror film legacy originated by Universal Pictures, and the event continues to honor its blockbuster history with a haunted maze highlighting one of the studio’s most sinister creatures – The Bride of Frankenstein. “Universal Monsters: The Bride of Frankenstein Lives” picks up where the 1935 classic film “The Bride of Frankenstein” left off, thrusting guests into chaos as the Bride becomes an unstoppable scientist and begins her mission to revive Frankenstein’s Monster. Her unwavering quest to find eternal life will come at a cost, and guests will soon find themselves entwined in a frenzied battle in their daring attempt to escape.

Inspired by the 1974 iconic slasher film “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre,” the “Halloween Horror Nights” mazes will depict a harrowing and intense experience as guests try to outrun the maniacal Leatherface and his unrelenting chainsaw. Fans will embark on a killer journey through a series of familiar scenes from the film and eventually fall victim to a family of cannibals. From a dilapidated gas station to an eerie, old farmhouse, they will witness unimaginable horrors around every corner, soon discovering that nowhere is safe from the demented Leatherface.

Plus, guests at Universal Orlando’s “Halloween Horror Nights” will face another pop culture and horror legend as they brave this year’s event. The destination previously revealed the first haunted house of the season featuring the ‘ghost with the most,’ “Beetlejuice,” based on Warner Bros. Pictures and Tim Burton’s Academy Award-winning horror-fantasy film.

The “Halloween Horror Nights” events begin on Friday, September 3 in Orlando and Thursday, September 9 in Hollywood – and both events run select nights through Sunday, October 31. Select tickets and vacation packages are now on sale for “Halloween Horror Nights” at Universal Orlando Resort; tickets for the event at Universal Studios Hollywood will be available soon. Due to popular demand, event nights are expected to sell out. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com.

Universal’s Warning: EVENT MAY BE TOO INTENSE FOR YOUNG CHILDREN AND IS NOT RECOMMENDED FOR CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 13. NO COSTUMES OR COSTUME MASKS ALLOWED.

CPSC Warns of Safety Hazards in Vacation Rental Homes

Lisa Arneill

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July 13, 2021

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CPSC Warns of Safety Hazards in Vacation Rental Homes

Families looking for more amenities or room for a multi-generational vacation have been turning to vacation rental sites for many years.

Often these homes aren’t designed to be safe for smaller travelers who need more safe proofing when you’re at home.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is reminding consumers to look for critical safety features when staying in vacation rental homes.

Travelers should make sure their vacation rental home has smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, fire extinguishers, in addition to pool safety and home elevator safety features, if applicable.

Among the most important safety tips for traveling consumers are the following:

Fire Safety

Check for adequate smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Smoke alarms should be on every level of the home, outside each sleeping area and inside every bedroom.
- Carbon monoxide alarms should be on every level of the home outside sleeping areas.
Make sure there is a fire extinguisher in the home.
Have a fire escape plan (providing two ways out each room).

Child Safety

Avoid deadly furniture and TV tip-overs; don’t let children climb on furniture, and don’t place toys and remotes where children might be tempted to climb up to reach for them.
Keep cleaning supplies in a locked cabinet or out of reach of children.
Keep all window cords out of reach of children.
Keep baby’s sleep space free from pillows and blankets, and use cribs that meet CPSC safety standards.
Even when traveling, ensure that baby sleeps in a flat crib or play yard with a well-fitting sheet.

Pool Safety

At vacation rental homes with pools:

Never leave a child unattended in or near water, and always designate an adult Water Watcher. This person should not be reading, texting, using a smartphone or otherwise be distracted.
- Child drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death among children ages one to four years old.

There should be an alarm on the door leading from the house to the pool.
Pools and spas should be surrounded by a fence at least four feet high with self-closing and self-latching gates.
Pools and spas should have drain covers that meet federal standards; consumers can ask property or rental managers for confirmation.
Life-saving equipment, such as life rings or reaching poles, should be available for use.
Make sure kids learn to swim.
Keep children away from pool drains.
Know how to perform CPR on children and adults.

Home Elevator Safety
At vacation rental homes with elevators:

Be aware of a deadly gap (greater than 4 inches deep) that may exist between the interior and exterior doors of home elevators.
- Children, from ages 2 through 16, have been crushed to death in this gap. In some incidents, children have suffered multiple skull fractures, fractured vertebrae, traumatic asphyxia and other horrific and lifelong injuries.
Lock the elevator so that it cannot be accessed by children; or lock all exterior (hoistway) doors to the elevator.
Don’t let children play with or around residential elevators.
- Residential elevators were linked to 4,600 injuries and 22 deaths from 1981 through 2019.

Disneyland Resort Announces Limited-Time Summer Ticket Offer for California Residents

Lisa Arneill

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July 6, 2021

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Disneyland Resort Announces Limited-Time Summer Ticket Offer for California Residents

Californians residents can visit Disneyland for less this Summer! Whether you want to break it into 3 day trips or a three day getaway, visitors can book now and save on magical visits to explore new adventures at Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park.

For a limited time, California residents can buy three-day, one-park per day tickets starting at $249 with eligible guests being about to purchase a park hopper option for an additional $55. The limited-time tickets are available for purchase starting July 6, 2021, and California residents may redeem their tickets on any three separate days through September 30, 2021, subject to park reservation availability.* These special tickets may be purchased at Disneyland.com, through a travel agent, or by calling call (866) 572-7321. Valid admission and park reservation for the same park on the same date is required for park entry.

Guests can stay in the heart of the magic by taking advantage of special savings with room offers at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort. Disney is offering up to 25 percent off select rooms at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa and up to 20 percent at the Disneyland Hotel, July 5-October 2, 2021.

The Hotels of the Disneyland Resort offer convenient access to both parks, with benefits and magical touches as only Disney can do.

Currently, Disneyland requires guests to have both a theme park reservation and a valid admission for the same park on the same date to visit. Theme park reservations are limited and subject to availability. A Disneyland Resort hotel reservation does not guarantee a theme park access. Certain parks, attractions, restaurants, experiences and offerings may be modified or unavailable, limited in capacity, and subject to limited availability or even closure. Park admission and offerings are not guaranteed. Visit Disneyland.com for important information to know before visiting Disneyland Resort.

Fine Print: *Offer valid only for California residents within ZIP codes 90000-96199 and Northern Baja California residents within ZIP codes 21000-22999; proof of eligible residency, including valid government-issued photo ID, is required for purchase and admission. Tickets expire on 9/30/2021 and are limited in availability. Each day of use constitutes one full day of use. May purchase up to five tickets per eligible person per day with valid ID. Tickets are nonrefundable, may not be sold or transferred for commercial use, and exclude activities/events separately priced. Offer may not be combined with other ticket discounts or promotions. The ticket may not be upgraded. Offer subject to restrictions, change and cancellation without notice.

Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana Set To Open in November!

Lisa Arneill

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May 16, 2021

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Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana Set To Open in November!

Karisma Hotels & Resorts, the award-winning hotelier, will open the doors to the new five-star Margaritaville^® Island Reserve Cap Cana in November 2021. This will mark the second resort for the Island Reserve brand created in partnership with Karisma and Margaritaville – and the first in the Dominican Republic. The new property combines the amenities of a world-class, all-inclusive resort with Margaritaville’s signature easy-going lifestyle.

“After launching the Island Reserve concept in Riviera Maya, we’re thrilled to continue our partnership with Margaritaville to bring this lifestyle to the Dominican Republic in a way that really captures Cap Cana as a destination,” said Mario Mathieu, Senior Vice President of Business Development, Design and Construction at Karisma Hotels & Resorts. “Cap Cana is the ideal setting for the newest addition to the portfolio, truly encompassing the carefree escapism that is central to the brand.”

“We are excited to introduce Margaritaville Island Reserve to Cap Cana in the Dominican Republic, one of the most stunning beaches in the world,” said John Cohlan, CEO of Margaritaville. “Our expanding partnership with Karisma is all about delivering the ultimate island experience – relaxation, fun, exceptional dining, over-the-top service, and quality entertainment – all to be enjoyed in the Margaritaville state of mind.”

Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana sits on stunning Playa Juanillo, which is world renowned for its miles of pristine white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and idyllic sunsets. Located just 15 minutes from the Punta Cana International Airport, Margaritaville Island Reserve Cap Cana will feature 228 suites and 40 villas designed with elements inspired by the destination’s seaside surroundings to transport guests to paradise. The “no worries” experience is complete with an incomparable level of service from the resort’s local Island Ambassadors who will cater to guests’ every need, as well as rooms outfitted with modern conveniences such as customized in-room refreshment centers with goodies from Joe Merchant and access to Karisma’s Island Reserve Inclusive^® 24-hour in-room dining.

Guests will have 13 luxury room types to choose from, including swim-up and honeymoon suites as well as the signature villas. The Jimmy Buffett Suite offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea from the top floor of the main guest building, complete with sprawling indoor and outdoor entertainment spaces including a 300-square-foot furnished terrace and a custom-built grill for private dining experiences.

A signature element of the property is the 40 ultra-luxe Island Reserve villas where guests have exclusive access to a sprawling lagoon pool and an S.O.S. Swim Up Bar featuring hanging beds to relax in comfort. Offering the ultimate indulgence, each villa features a king-size bed, kitchenette, breakfast bar, living room, and expansive outdoor terrace offering either a private pool or direct access to the lagoon pool.

At the heart of the resort, the Gourmet Village will provide guests with the ultimate place to relax and have fun, featuring immersive music, entertainment, and unpretentious-yet-refined culinary and mixology offerings for a personalized vacation from start to finish.

The expansive destination features the Margaritaville Main Stage, an urban theater that will provide daily entertainment and tropical tunes to complement the vibrant seaside setting. Here, guests will also find dining options galore with seven of the resort’s 10 food and beverage locations, from exquisitely prepared pastas at Frank & Lola’s Italian Trattoria, to choice cuts at JWB Steakhouse and Pan Asian specialties at Mon So Wi.

Adjacent to the infinity pool will be the centrally located hotspot Rum Runners, where guests can mix, mingle, and enjoy an expertly crafted menu with nods to the Dominican Republic and West Indies’ long history of producing some of the best rum in the world. The 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar & Swim Up Bar, boasting views of Juanillo Beach, is the perfect place for a poolside cocktail, a cold beer, or margarita.

At Sports Hub, located in the Gourmet Village, guests can sign up for their favorite activities, from pickleball to tennis and aqua fitness classes. Those looking to indulge will enjoy 11,000-square-feet of rest and relaxation at St. Somewhere Spa, while the 2,200-square-foot Fins Up! Fitness Center will be open 24 hours for anyone who wants to re-energize, tone, or embark upon a new workout challenge. Little ones will also be kept engaged at Parakeet Kid’s Club where a variety of fun, supervised daily activities await. Plus, the resort’s premier Sky Wedding location, with stunning views from a private rooftop, will make for the ultimate romantic setting for exchanging vows.

Sleep Under The Stars At The Panorama Glass Lodge

Lisa Arneill

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May 11, 2018

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Sleep Under The Stars At The Panorama Glass Lodge

Located in Hvalfjörður, just a 30min drive from Reykjavík, the Panorama Glass Lodge is a unique hotel that gives guests incredible views of the Icelandic landscape and Northern lights.

Panorama Glass Lodge Iceland - northern lights

A family owned and operated business, the lodge provides full privacy and is the perfect location for your honeymoon or just an adventure trip.

Couples can sleep in a glass house igloo with an amazing panorama view. The northern lights are bright & visible due to the remote location. Guests can enjoy the amazing midnight sun during summertime and possibly spot some sunbathing seals or even whales out in the fjord from the beach.