The NEW Universal Theme Park with a Volcano

By: Phoebe Ackland, ellaslist

Check out the BRAND new Volcano Bay water theme park by Universal Studios in Orlando, an island paradise full of thrilling rides with a 200-ft replica volcano in its heart!

Source: Fatherly Facebook

It's Big On Thrills & Splashes

The entire 25-acre park is themed around the 'Watari' (a made-up culture inspired by Polynesia ) island way- you'll see wooden carvings of mythical creatures and lush palms and ferns at every turn. Sparkling waterfalls splash into crystal lagoons, there's  a rainforest village, a sandy beach that visitors can recline in a deckchair on, or you can scream your head off on the thrilling rides Universal prides itself on, including:

• Krakatau™: the 200ft volcano, with waterslides from top to bottom that you can slide down if you dare. It's a waterfall by day and has lava shows by night
• Krakatau™ Aqua Coaster: 4-person canoes venture inside the cavernous volcano. You'll emerge through a shimmering waterfall. This is said to be the ride that people want to hop on again and again.
• Ko'okiri Body Plunge: a 70-degree, 125 foot fall down a trapdoor, ending in a splash. It takes just 10 seconds, but your heart will be in your stomach in no time. 
• Punga Racers™: a kiddie favourite. Race your friends down on Manta Ray mats across four lanes, venturing through underwater sea caves!
• The Reef: a private, 5.5-foot leisure pool with its very own waterfall l
• Tot Tiki Reef™: a water play area for toddlers, with a mini volcano and mini slides!

Seriously High-Tech

People are going nuts for the theme park's TapuTapu wristband system. Visitors are given waterproof bands that allow them to virtually reserve a spot in line. Once you 'tap on', your wristband will tell you how many minutes until your turn, and will count them down for you. When time is up, it will start beeping and say 'Ride Now!' meaning you can head back to the ride and hop straight on, no queuing necessary. You can also load it up with cash or your credit card so buying things is easier than paywave.

Universal recommends 3 days to see it all. Family holiday, anyone?

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