I.
Six months ago, the earliest allowed per work rules, I put in to take this week off for vacation. I normally take this week off because of a yearly tax-season related project at work of which I have a big role. This year, as it turns out, due to technological and other reasons, the project has changed greatly from the norm, leaving me with a smaller, yet equally important part. So, for tradition’s sake, I took this week off anyway.
I didn’t just want to stay home and do day trips. I’m a traveler. Travelers travel. After doing some research, I booked a few days in Orlando to visit Universal Studios Orlando. It’s been a while since I’ve been here. And I’ve been curious about the Harry Potter area since it has opened. So that’s the plan.
Booking everything through Southwest Vacations, the vacation arm of Southwest Airlines, I got the hotel, flights, and transport to and from the airport for a good price. The Universal tickets were purchased through a program we have at work. Everything is looking good.
II.
“Hey Alexa, what’s the weather in Orlando today?”
“Sunny and a high of 67°”
That was at 5:00 this morning. I’m leaving for the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport in about an hour and a half, thanks to a ride from my parents. It’s a little cool but the weather is nice.
Two hours later, I’ve dropped off my checked back at the counter. This is a relatively short trip, and I could do everything carry-on, but Southwest allows for one free checked bag, and when that’s the deal, you take it. Plus, checking a bag allows me to avoid the most annoying part of travelling solo: having to keep your bags with you, no matter what. Checking my main suitcase means I just have to deal with my knapsack. This is much better.
Wending my way through TSA, I show my ID and head to the machines. I’m told that they have new machines and I don’t have to take anything out of my bag. I still have to take off my hat, belt, and shoes. I’ve done this and start to take off my watch. “You don’t have to do that,” TSA says. “You can go to the scanner.”
In the machine, out of the machine. “I just need to check your left wrist.” Other TSA says. “Do you have a watch?”
“Yes, it’s a watch.” I respond, as Other TSA looks.
“OK. Thank you. You’re all set.”
III.
I’m onboard Southwest flight 4119. Our transport this morning is a 150 seat Boeing 737-800, although there’s only about 40 passengers booked. By the time boarding is complete, I find that I have a row to myself, all the way across. I can look out both windows. The flight crew is pilot, co-pilot, and three flight attendants. The lead flight attendant, a fellow named Dale, is full of cringy but funny jokes, and upon landing, sings us a song:
We love you. You love us. We are faster than the bus. Marry one of us, And you fly for free.
He also advised that if we leave any personal items behind, “you can find them tomorrow at www dot ebay dot com. “
IV.
It is now about 12:30 in the afternoon in Orlando. Having taken my scheduled transportation from the airport, I am now in the lobby of the Holiday Inn and Suites Across from Universal Orlando (yes, that really is the official name). I’m told it’s too early to check in, unless I want to pay the $40 early check in fee. (Check in is at 2:00. ) I decline, but am allowed to leave my bags. I head next door to the TGI Fridays for lunch and a walk around the neighborhood.
The first thing I discover is that the hotel truly is across the street from Universal. I run a test and find that the CityWalk entrance of the park is about at 20 minute walk from the hotel. This is great. I can use that time to get some fresh air and get to the park while still getting in some Peloton time. The hotel does have a free shuttle, which I will be using so I don’t completely exhaust myself, but knowing
I can easily walk is good to know.
The next thing I discover is the neighborhood is composed entirely of hotels, restaurants, and minor shopping. And of course the entrance to Universal. As a result, it seems that this is a pretty safe neighborhood. Of course, I’m not an out-late-at-night person, but I’m confident it is safe.
So, there it is. Tomorrow is the first day of two in the park. For now, time for some hanging out at the hotel pool and a good night sleep.
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