Tr avel report FLORIDA
ARMS and legs hesitantly crossed I launch myself into the purple maze of the Ohno drop slide.
Whooshing around the spiral slide, picking up speed, I realise this isn’t the time, or place, for hesitation.
Suddenly, the dark tunnel flashes in to light and I get a glimpse of the blue sky above me before plunging 6ft into the pool.
What a rush! And this is only one of 13 action-packed water rides on offer at Universal’s Volcano Bay.
Whether braving the trap doors of the plunge slides at the top of the imposing peak (one of which is a 125ft drop at 70-degrees) or buddying up on the group inflatables, this impressive water theme park has it all.
My favourite is the Krakatau Aqua Coaster - a four person log flume like ride that twists and turns through the heart of the volcano shooting riders through the park and down drops at an incredible pace.
We enjoyed it so much we stayed on for a second go.
Described as a ‘tropical paradise’ by Universal creatives, the stunning backdrop is centred on the myth of the Waturi islanders.
This South Pacific theme runs throughout the park with islanders greeting crowds with an ever cheery ‘Kia ora.’
And it’s not just the white knuckle As with any Universal attraction, they don’t set out to do things by halves, and in this spirit Volcano Bay has some pretty progressive elements for what is essentially a water park.
It is all about ‘the entertainment experience’ and as such they have devised a clever way to take the hassle out of queueing for rides.
The TapuTapu wearable, which is included with admission, is strapped onto your wrist and allows you to virtually wait in line. Meaning you can maximise your precious time in the park.
After tapping into the entrance of a ride the wearable alerts you when its your turn and estimates how long it will take.
There is also a Play option which triggers special effects like water spurting from whales in Tot Tiki Reef or illuminating secret images in the volcano’s hidden caves.
Of course, this is Universal after all. Staying close to the action is key for the intrepid Florida fun-seeker.
The newest on-site hotel Sapphire Falls is a great choice with blue waterfalls cascading across lush grounds and only a stone’s throw to Volcano Bay.
It retains that inviting island charm of the park despite having 1,000 guest rooms and suites on site.
My room is spacious and clean, centred around two sizable queen beds perfect to rest up in after an action-packed day.
With a large pool and great pub on-site, throw in the complimentary water taxi to Universal CityWalk and it makes the perfect base.
There is also a shuttle bus running between the parks for easy transport. There is so much to pack in during your visit to the theme parks that you may as well go big and do it all.
Living by this mantra we boarded the Hogwarts Express and flitted smoothly between the two - the child in me feeling all my Christmases had come at once.
Whether a super fan or on the periphery of JK Rowling’s famous wizarding world, the Harry Potter attractions are incredible.
Wander through the life-size Hogsmeade with an iced Butterbeer and marvel at the magical grotto before you.
Or if you’re ready to get the adrenaline pumping, try the Escape from Gringotts at Diagon Alley - a hybrid dark ride and roller coaster.
Immersed in the dank vaults of Two attractions of note in a multitude of thrills is the classic Jurassic Park ride and Skull Island: Reign of Kong.
The latter sees you board a 72-seat jungle bus into the looming temple of Kong. The ride utilises the latest in 3D technology which feels jaw-droppingly real.
While old favourite Jurassic Park embodies everything I expected from Universal as a youngster.
As one of the first rides I ever heard about (possibly via VHS) riding it with the theme tune blaring out made my day - all the better for the soaking at the end.