Welcome to Orlando – 15th World Bridge Series
By Anna Gudge In Archive, Event update, News On 20th June 2018
Welcome message from the ACBL President
Welcome one and all from around the world.
On behalf of the Board and the entire ACBL, we wish you a warm welcome to the US. We are honoured to host your World Championship in Orlando, Florida and are sure you will enjoy your visit. The challenge and excitement of playing among the world’s best is an opportunity not to be taken lightly. Be sure to take advantage of the wonderful restaurants and incredible entertainment available in our Sunshine State.
Jay Whipple, ACBL President
Many thanks to the myriad of individuals and organizations it takes to put on this show. Special thanks to all the individuals at the World Bridge Federation, United States Bridge Federation, and the American Contract Bridge League who have worked tirelessly to ensure the perfect event. Be sure to thank them if you run into them during your visit. While we may not be able to guarantee success at the tables, we have no doubt you will enjoy the world-class competition and entertainment.
Thank you for commitment to this event but more importantly your personal commitment to sustain and growth this game we all love.
Jay N. Whipple III
President of the American Contract Bridge League
Welcome to Orlando, enjoy the many attractions
Orlando is one of the world’s premier travel destinations with more than 68-million people visiting last year. Exploring the many attractions or just relaxing by the Orlando World Center Marriott pool, you will have a marvelous time during your stay.
The area attractions include Disney World, Universal Studios, Kennedy Space Center, Sea World, Busch Gardens, Legoland, water parks, dinner shows, eco tours, night life and outlet malls.
Orlando sightseeing tours are available as well as convenient car rentals.
Disney World: Following one of the most explosive years of entertainment growth in its history, Walt Disney World Resort has a record 
numbers of new shows, attractions and entertainment extravaganzas. Attractions include: Epcot, where you can take a free-flying adventure across the natural wonders of the Golden State, and glide 40 feet in the air as you look down upon the breathtaking vistas of Yosemite and redwood forests; Magic Kingdom, the most visited theme park in the world, featuring the fascination and imagination of once upon a time stories and 
fairy tales; Animal Kingdom, the biggest animal-themed park in the world with its more than 1,700 animals; Hollywood Studios, brings the magic of movies to life with all of the glitz and glam that is very reminiscent of Hollywood’s early years; Orlando Balloon Rides, an awe-inspiring peaceful trip taking in the sights of Kissimmee from a hot air balloon.
Universal Studios: Come ride the movies. Universal Studios is the third largest theme park complex in the entire world, drawing more than 30 million visitors last year. There is Universal’s Islands of Adventure, which includes the showstopper attraction The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and adjacent to Islands of Adventure is the equally entertaining Universal Studios.
Kennedy Space Center: Though it’s about 46 miles east of downtown Orlando in Titusville, Florida, the space center is worth a visit, especially for those with an interest in NASA history. Items and exhibits found on-site include a garden with various rockets, astronaut training simulators and the space shuttle Atlantis.
Sea World: The world’s most popular marine-life park, brings education, research and conservation together in an entertaining and fun-filled way.
Busch Gardens: Located about 1 hours from Orlando, FL. Busch Gardens contains wildlife and wild rides, including the world’s two tallest inverted roller coaster. Then trek the plains of Africa, escape from fiery volcanoes, or cool off on unforgettable white-water adventure rides.
Legoland: This family theme park offers interactive attractions, family rides, shows, restaurants, shopping and beautiful landscape specifically geared for families with children ages 2 to12.
Water Parks: Sea World Aquatica, Wet N Wild, and more. Aquatica features the most thrilling water rides in the world with 36 water slides, six rivers and lagoons, and more than 80,000 square feet of beach area, with distinct attractions that zoom, float and splash guests through amazing animal habitats and undersea adventures.
Shopping Malls & Outlet Centers: Visit the Mall at Millenia, or any of the 8 major shopping and outlet malls. From themed shopping boutiques to outlet malls and everything in between, makes Orlando area a shopper’s mecca.
Dinner Shows: A large number of Dinner Shows through your stay. Check the concierge desk for latest shows and times.