Thursday Tickle

Bonjorno!

Mount your broomsticks everyone, because today we’re flying straight into the magical place that is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal’s Islands of Adventure. Accio Firebolt!

Phew, what a bumpy ride. Let’s keep our feet firmly on the ground for the time being while we explore our place of arrival. This place has a bit of a medieval feel, doesn’t it? That’s probably because of the cobblestone roads and artsy lanterns. Not to mention the ginormous castle right in front of you. Where are we, you say? Hogsmeade ofcourse! Walk with us, while we leave muggle territory far behind… .

Travel really does stir the appetite so let’s stop at this little tavern. ‘Three Broomsticks & Hog’s Head’, that can’t be half bad, let’s head on in. As we enter the tavern the amazing smell of Pumpkin Juice comes our way. There’s also some Sheperd’s Pie available if you’re feeling a bit peckish. 

(Flickr)

 However cosy this establishment is, it is kind of annoying that everyone in here keeps staring at us. Time to shake that muggle appearance and get our hands on some appropriate attire.

Just because we’re in the wizarding world doesn’t mean we have to loose our sense of style so only the best will do. And the best cloaks in town are found at Dervish and Banges. You can have your pick from several Hogwarts robes and various magical supplies. Now that we’re looking our best again, let’s get adventurous! 

Step on board the first ride, Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. Ah, the forbidden fruit, how tasty. This isn’t exactly your typical rollercoaster ride so thrill seekers might be a bit disappointed but all others will be amazed by this ride. It really takes you into the world of the Boy Who Lived. You can fly over the Hogwarts Castle, walk past the talking paintings in the corridors and even join the team in a match of Quidditch. Beware though, because the magical realm isn’t all fun and games. On this ride you’ll also encounter the mortifying cold of the Dementors and act as a moving target for one very angry dragon. Fly like the wind, fellow witches and wizards!

Aside from the occasional robe burn, we all made it out of that dangerous journey alive. This calls for a celebration and nothing screams ‘party’ like a whole lot of candy and toys. On to Zonkos and Honeydukes to stuff your pockets with all magical treats imaginable. From Chocolate Frogs to Bertie Botts Every Flavor Beans, Honeydukes really does have it all. And when it comes to trickery, the mischievous witch or wizard can have a field day at Zonkos. 

(Flickr)

(Flickr)

Now that we’ve refreshed our health with some much needed sugar, how about we get strapped in for our next ride? On to the Dragon Challenge it is!

As if our first encounter with a dragon wasn’t bad enough, here comes another one! Get ready to put yourself in Harry Potter’s shoes as we hang on for dear life while narrowly dodging certain death. I’m being very dramatic here but it really seems like a nauseating roller coaster with all those close turns and curves… .

(Usrentacar)

All of you who couldn’t resist to eat all those Chocolate Frogs at once are probably regretting that right about now. However, it was definitely worth it. Victory was ours, the dragon was outsmarted and we’re on top of the world! There’s no better feeling than the adrenaline rush after a dragon attack so on that note, let’s get back on our brooms for the journey home. 

Enjoy!