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The New York Times reported that Universal Studios in Orlando is unveiling a theme park within their theme park, fashioned after the Harry Potter books by J.K. Rowling.  The park, called The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, cost an estimated $265 million to construct and will relieve some of Universal’s dependency on Marvel characters for attractions, as Marvel was just purchased by Walt Disney.  Wizarding World will feature rides such as Flight of the Hippogriff, and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.  The park is fashioned after the fictional Hogsmeade, a wizarding town described in the series.  There’s also Hogwarts Castle, which although only 150 feet tall appears to tower at a height of 600 feet due to special effects.  The park is expected to capitalize on the books popularity and draw in a percentage of the millions of fans that love Harry Potter.  The Harry Potter Books have been translated into 67 languages, and when the final installment of the series was published, it sold 11 million copies in the first 24 hours.  If Wizarding World can cash in on even a fraction of this popularity, it will surely recoup its investment. And if you’re staying in Orlando corporate housing, be sure to check out what is sure to be a popular new attraction.

For tricks and treats this Halloween there’s no place like Orlando.  If you’re staying in Orlando corporate housing, major attractions there offer themed events, such as SeaWorld’s Halloween Spooktacular, Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights, and DisneyWorld’s Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party.  While tickets to the events can be pretty pricey (moreso at Universal, where an express pass can run you close to $70), if you’re a Florida resident or an annual pass holder there are discounts available.  I’ve also heard rumors that major soft drink brands, and restaurants will offer promotion codes on their website that can be redeemed for discounts at the door.
At Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights costumes are discouraged and the intended audience are teenagers and adults.  The theme of the event changes every year, but it is always based on the company’s R-rated horror films.  The park features 8 elaborate haunted houses, “scarezones,” live shows, and many bars.  In fact, Halloween Horror Nights kind of has a reputation for being a boozefest.
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party encourages children to come in costume. Costumes, I’m sure, can be purchased at the park.  Other venues for purchasing costumes in Orlando include Century Costumes, or Party City.  Each child is given a trick or treat bag that they can fill at candy stations throughout the park.  There’s a daytime parade that’s begun with a fantastic ride by the Headless Horseman, and at night there’s a fireworks spectacle entitled “Happy Hallowishes.”