Picture this. You’re minding your own business, waiting in line for that ride you’ve been so excited to experience… and it happens. A breeze across your face, the flash of Slytherin and Ravenclaw shirts pass by. The VIP tour has arrived. You watch in happiness, and a tad hint of jealousy, as they hop on that exact ride you’re in line for. “That’s going to be me one day,” you whisper to yourself. But what you didn’t know is experiencing a VIP Tour Experience at Universal Orlando is easier than you think!

The Facts

If you’re wanting to feel “very important” Universal Orlando is ready to make that happen. In fact, Universal offers two ways to experience their VIP Tours.

Option 1 – Shared VIP Experience

Your first option is a shared experience. For only $189 per person plus tax, you, your friends, and a small group of other people (who we’re sure will be your friends by the end of the day) will “get exclusive backstage access, learn fun insider information, and enjoy the parks’ most amazing rides and attractions without waiting in line.”

Here’s what’s included in that cost:

• Priority front-of-the-line access to all rides and attractions including The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man®, TRANSFORMERS™: The Ride-3D and all of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ attractions

• Exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences in the parks (subject to availability)

• Complimentary valet parking (one vehicle, based on availability)

• Reserved seating at shows (excludes live performances during Mardi Gras and Mannheim Steamroller during the holidays)

• Complimentary continental breakfast and lunch. Dinner included in Private VIP Experiences only

• Universal Express Unlimited ride access at participating rides and attractions throughout the rest of the day (during normal park operating hours)

• Exclusive VIP Experiences lanyard and credential

• Universal CityWalk Party Pass™, valid only on date of VIP Experience (during normal CityWalk park operating hours)^^

• Discounts at select Universal Orlando owned and operated merchandise locations in the theme parks and CityWalk

Option 2 – Private VIP Experience

Your second option gives you true “Very Important Person” / VIP tour status. “As the only guests on this all-day tour, your private group will get exclusive VIP treatment.” Your group will be able to build your own itinerary. It also means unlimited front-of-the-line access to all participating rides and attractions. On top of all the perks guests receive on the shared experience, guests booking a private VIP tour will also receive a “My Universal Photos 3-Day Photo Package,” which begins the same day your tour takes place. Prices for this option vary, so make sure to talk to your MMV agent to get the most accurate information.

Currently, these VIP tours are offered at Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure in these formats:

Let’s Have Some Fun (A First-Hand Experience)

Recently a small group of our MMV agents had the opportunity to live the life of a “VIP” at Universal Orlando, so instead of boring you with the details… we want to show you how #EPIC their day was visiting the parks. Take a look!

It’s 9 o’clock on the dot, we’re in our MMV gear cruising the streets (of Universal Studios).

Our agents were ready for some fun at 9 o’clock in the morning at Universal Studios. But, you can’t have a full day of fun on an empty stomach, so first up on the schedule was Café La Bamba for a breakfast buffet. Here our agents chatted with their tour guide for the day, Vincent, about everything they hoped to do that day.

At 9:30, it was time to get to the good stuff. Did someone say back-to-back rides on Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure™ AND Jurassic World VelociCoaster? ‘Cause they did just that (and it was amazing)! Our agents were able to experience 8 attractions between 9:30 and 12:30.

At 12:30 it was lunchtime! Here they were able to experience a 3-course meal at Mythos, an award-winning restaurant located inside Universal’s Islands of Adventure.

But the day wasn’t over yet. After lunch, MMV was able to continue their day experience at the front of the line on 6 other attractions. PLUS, to make the day even more amazing, they were able to step backstage and get an up-close look at how they service the Spiderman vehicles and step into the world of the Men in Black.

Some of the great things about experiencing a VIP Tour at Universal Orlando is the fun you and your family can experience in a stress-free way. And, we can’t forget to mention the icing on this cake: the VIP Tour Guides. The tour guides at Universal Orlando are the perfect bow for your “V.I. Present.” They are packed full of fun facts, great advice, and helping hands. They’ll make sure to take time for special photos, that you don’t miss anything important, and will become a member of the family by the end of the day. Special note: That’s why it’s always important to tip these amazing team members to show them your thanks!

As you can see, if you’re wanting to tackle the parks like a pro, a VIP Tour may be a great way to see the sights! Contact your MMV agent to talk about what might be a good fit for you and your family on your next Universal Orlando Resort Vacation!

Not booked yet? Request a quote today from your agent to start planning.

MMV Agent Blog

Let’s face it, while we don’t like to brag, giving our friends and family a little FOMO is never a bad thing. With so many social media trends constantly changing, it’s hard to keep up. One of the top souvenirs of a vacation are the photos you take during your adventure. Whether you’re planning to print them or post them on Instagram, we don’t want you to miss out on any fun. That’s why we decided to give you a list of some of the photos you’ll absolutely want to take on your next trip to Universal Orlando. You know… to show the squad back home what they’re missing out on.

Lights. Camera. Hold on, my lens is dirty.

Before we get started, let’s start with some photo basics that everyone needs to know.

• There is nothing worse than thinking you’ve nailed the perfect shot, only to see that your camera lens had some gunk on it. So, clean those phone lenses off first!

• Second, lighting is key. Here’s a little saying you can tell yourself, “If the sun is on my head, the colors will be dead.” The sun can be your best, or worst, friend. Having it directly above you will more than likely bleach your photos out. So, take some time earlier in the day as the sun is rising to get some great pictures, or wait till the sun starts to drop.

• Finally, if you want to be the center of attention, there’s nothing wrong with letting some others go first. The less faces in the photos = more eyes are on you!

Let’s take some photos!

#1 Round and round she goes.

You can’t miss her. She’s a beauty… and nothing says, “I’m on VACATION,” like a photo in front of the Universal globe! Make it fun. Hop on your partner/friends back. Do a handstand. Make it you. Just smile and say cheese.

#2 If you didn’t go to Hogwarts did you even go to Universal?

Harry Potter fans this one’s for you! Getting your photo taken in front of Hogwarts is a like a badge of honor. So, get your robes on and your wands ready!

#3 You’re My Girl Blue

Everyone loves Blue… and while we recommend you don’t get too close (she is a raptor after all), posing with this dino legend, or one of the members of her pack, is a must-do at Islands of Adventure.

#4 Simpsons… and Minions… and Trolls. Oh my!

One great thing about a trip to Universal Orlando is you’re surrounded by famous people. I mean, who doesn’t feel 10% cooler with you’re standing with Poppy? Plus, now that standard character meet and greets have returned, it’s the perfect time for a hug!

#5 Donut Calories “donut” count!

If you find yourself in Springfield U.S.A. you’re going to need a donut. They’re big, they’re pink, and they’re delicious.

#6 Everyone loves a superhero.

Inside Universal’s Islands of Adventure, you’ll find “Marvel Super Hero Island.” It’s home to a couple fan favorites like the Incredible Hulk Coaster and The Amazing Adventures of SpiderMan, so you’re sure to run into a few heroes now and then.

#7 Butterbeer… no other caption needed.

Just admit it. It’s basically a requirement for any trip inside the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Grab it, snap it, enjoy it then go back for more. (We won’t tell anyone.)

#8 Feeling like royalty at Universal’s CityWalk

… Donut royalty that is. Located at Universal’s City Walk, you’ll find the throne you’re heart desires, the throne of VooDoo Donuts. Hop in. Just don’t let all that sugar go to your head.

#9 You, me, and a day at Volcano Bay

Summer is almost here, which means blue skies and high temps. So, we saved the best picture for last. A great way to beat the heat and look like a vacation champ is soaking up some rays and splashing the day away at Volcano Bay.

These are just a few of the tons of fun pictures you can take on vacation at Univeral Orlando. The most important thing to do is have fun, say cheese, and enjoy the magic.

Does this blog have you feeling the FOMO? Request a quote today and start planning!

Need to keep this info handy? Pin this for later!

MMV Agent Blog

Photo Courtesy of Universal Orlando

Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras season is upon us and let’s face it, there is nothing quite like it. This year the fun is back to its full glory… meaning the award-winning concerts are back, the parades are back, and yes even the BEADS are back! Luckily for you, while the party has never been hotter, the food has never been sweeter. So, follow along as we bring you some of the tasty highlights of this year’s Mardi Gras season at Universal Orlando as we celebrate “Fat Tuesday”!

Treat Photos Courtesy of MMV Agent, Luciana Lord

King Cake Macaron

The cool thing about the first item on our list is you don’t even have to enter the parks to try it out… just slide into Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and pick up one of 3 seasonal Mardi Gras themed macarons. This year’s flavors are King Cake (pictured above), Bananas Foster, and Maple Bourbon. Out of the three, we’re declaring the King Cake Macaron… KING! Not only is this treat Instagram worthy, but it’s also super yummy too. Your friends will absolutely be green with envy, just like it’s fantastic color. Another bonus about this snack is you’ll be able to find it in various snack spots throughout Universal Studios (like inside this year’s Mardi Gras Tribute Store) for just $5. So, if you want to pick up an extra, or a handful, of these to bring back to you room at night, we won’t judge.

Mardi Gras Bubble Waffle

First thing’s first, it has WAFFLE in the title… so it’s basically breakfast and 100% acceptable to eat early in the day. The fact that there is ice cream involved is just a minor detail. It’s just a topping, right?! After all, people put toppings on waffles every single day. Plus, it has pocky sticks, which means you can have a sword fight while you wait in line for your next ride. Entertainment in a cone! But seriously, if you haven’t tried Ube and Macha ice cream you are missing out. These flavors will blow you away. Find it at the Fusion Food Truck (the bridge near Springfield, U.S.A.).

Strawberry Caipirinha Punch and Pulled Chicken Coxinha

This first part is for the over 21 crowd. While February to April sees a little milder in temps in Orlando, the sun still shines brightly. So, to cool off, you might want to grab a Strawberry Caipirinha Punch. It’s made up of Leblon Cachaça, agave nectar, strawberry purée and lime juice. Sounds great right?

This beauty can be found at the Brazil booth (Café La Bamba patio) and pairs nicely with our next recommendation the Pulled Chicken Coxinha.

What is Pulled Chicken Coxinha? Well, it’s crispy, pulled chicken tear drop balls of heaven. They’re the perfect one-bite snack when you want something that isn’t sweet. They also can help you look and feel really cool if you can manage to toss it in the air and catch it in your mouth. If you miss, always remember the five-second rule. You don’t want to let one of these guys go to waste.

Mardi Gras Cupcake, Mardi Gras Chocolate Shot: Bananas Foster, and the King Cake Whoopie Pie

We’re pairing up these three on our tasty tour around Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando because they can all be found inside the Tribute Store near the Jimmy Fallon: Race Through New York ride.

I know they say diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but what about cupcakes? Tell us something a cupcake can’t do that diamonds can? Ok, sure they aren’t worth tons of money, but they can make you just as happy! This is why a simple Mardi Gras cupcake is never a bad choice and a great snack for those who are less adventurous.

The Mardi Gras Chocolate Shot: Bananas Foster is another fun option because even the “shot glass” is chocolate. It’s the perfect combo of smooth and snap. Just be sure to grab a napkin because chocolate melts.

Last in our Tribute Store highlight is the King Cake Whoopie Pie. Sure, there’s no baby inside but you’ll still feel pretty lucky when you try this out. Plus, it’s a decent size snack, so you can easily tear it in half and share with someone special. **Note while the food is fun, make sure not to rush through the Tribute Store this year. This year’s theming is set up like a Float Factory. Plus, the Tribute Store is packed full of fun gifts you can bring home!**

Crawfish and Shrimp Boil

You know the famous saying, “You can’t spell Mardi Gras without crawfish.” So, it’s not an actual saying but you get the point. One of the best things about Louisiana cuisine is the CRAWFISH, so a trip to Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras requires just that. Which is why our last snack to highlight is the Crawfish and Shrimp Boil, which can be found at Battery Park booth. It’s complete with crawfish, shrimp, andouille sausage, red bliss potatoes, and corn on the cob (a vegetable right?!) so it’s delicious AND nutritious! Look at you adulting!!!

One last thing…

One change to note to this year’s Mardi Gras tasting experience is how you can “prepay for your snacks.” In past years a tasting lanyard was available for purchase. This allowed you to “prepay” for specific amounts of samples you would like to try at the Mardi Gras booths. This year Universal Orlando has opted to utilize a Food and Beverage Card. This card has 2 options. You can choose to pay $65, but your card will be valued at $75 (a bonus of $10) in food and drink credits or pay $120 for your food and beverage card to snag a card valued at $150 (a bonus of $30)! These credits can be used throughout all of Universal Studios and Universal’s Islands of Adventure! That means you aren’t limited to using your fund on the Mardi Gras booths only.

While these cards can NOT be used at your hotel, if you have leftover credits, these credits never expire. So, make sure to bring them back on your next Universal Orlando getaway!

Are you hungry now? Cuz we are!

So, grab your friends… grab your family… and maybe some stretchy pants too because this is just the tip of the delicious food and offerings this year’s Universal Orlando Mardi Gras season has in store. You don’t want to miss this chance to live like Mardi Gras royalty and “eat like Kings!”

Ready to start planning your trip to this hopping party? Contact your MMV agent or click here for a free quote!

MMV Agent Blog