Standing at the entrance, I could see the tip of the castle in the distance. 'I can't believe we're here!' I squealed to my friends, Smita and Jill, both 23. Since the start of our American adventure I'd been waiting for today. After a week in New York and a couple of days in Washington DC, we were finally in Orlando. Castles aren't common in this US state, but the one I could see was very special - that's because it was the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry! Being a huge Harry Potter fan, I couldn't believe it when I heard they were opening the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios. Arriving at the gates, I was in complete awe – it looked exactly the same as the movie! 'Look! It's Hogwarts Express,' I beamed. As we took photos with the big red train and the conductor, we heard singing. Making our way through the crowd, we managed to catch four Hogwarts students, dressed in their house robes, singing with the toads. Even though it was for kids, we enjoyed the Flight of the Hippogriff roller-coaster that takes you around Hagrid's house. Next we took a trip down Diagon Alley, which is where all the magicians shop and eat. Ollivander's wand store was stacked to the ceiling with wands and was full of awesome Harry Potter souvenirs, at a surprisingly decent price. We definitely couldn't resist all the sweets and lollies in Honeydukes. We bought magic chocolate frogs and Bertie Bott's Every Flavour Beans. After sending postcards from the Owl Post, we headed to the Forbidden Journey - the main attraction at the park. We lined up for two hours, but it was worth the wait! Walking into the castle, we were greeted by talking paintings in the hallway and the sorting hat before jumping on an enchanted bench. 'It's Harry!' Jill said, pointing to the screen. Following him on his broomstick through Hogwarts castle, we met all the characters from the movie. The Forbidden Journey ride made me feel like I was part of Harry Potter's world. Whether you're an avid fan, or not, it really is a must see if you're visiting Orlando. 
I went with: My friends Smita and Jill, both 23. We travelled from : Sydney to Orlando, USA, via New York by plane. It cost: $1600 each for return airfare and a one-day pass for $112
Best bit: The Forbidden Journey at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter was absolutely amazing! Shopping: You can pick up great souvenirs at the park, which also make great gifts. If you're on a budget: Buy a refillable drink cup at the park to save on buying bottles of soft drink. My top tip: Don't take big bags - you can't take them on the rides. |
