Day passes vs. annual passes -- which is best for Florida theme parks?

Cliff and Leah Patton went camping on Lion Country Safari's grounds with their two granddaughters thanks to the annual passes they just bought. As Palm Beach Gardens residents, they own almost all major Florida theme park passes including Sea World, Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, Busch Gardens, Aquatica and the recently acquired Lion Country Safari. The Pattons say they started buying annual passes three years ago when they noticed the amount of money they could save.

More on Florida travel

CRUISES

Crossing in style: the Queen Mary 2

From bow to stern, the massive Queen Mary 2, for a time the largest passenger ship afloat, is more like a five-star resort than a party boat at sea. Sure, you cradle a citrus bellini as a Caribbean band curiously bangs the steel drums at the New York sail away, even though a gin and tonic and Frank Sinatra would be so much more appropriate. Or perhaps a spot of tea and a string quartet. The Queen Mary 2 is nothing if not very British, even though it is American owned and French built.
Far out but not far away

New scheduled air service puts the Bahamas' Out Islands within reach
Tips for traveling safely during flu season

Staying home won't protect you from swine flu now: Forty-six states have reported widespread flu activity. Here are some questions and answers about travel insurance, basic hygiene, and other aspects of traveling during the swine flu outbreak.
Luggage tips
- Seven ways to avoid airlines' checked luggage fees
- The smart way to send yourself packing
More on family travel
Weekend cruises get an upgrade

New and refurbished ships -- upgraded with multimillions of dollars -- have put weekend cruises out of South Florida from major lines on par with week-long sailings on their newer ships.
Our cruise panelists can answer your questions

Got a question about which ship is right for you? The best cruise line for traveling with teens? Where to find the widest selection of duty-free china? Our cruise panelists can help. Six local cruise enthusiasts will share their experiences and opinions on our new cruise forum.