The thought of having to drive for an hour or so to reach Busch Gardens in Tampa was always a great discouragement to me as the driver of the family but happily there is now no excuse thanks to the introduction of the Busch Gardens Shuttle bus service. We had purchased the 5 park Orlando FlexTickets (valid for 14 consecutive days for Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, Sea World, Wet 'n Wild and Busch Gardens) which entitled us to free transportation to and from Busch Gardens. All we had to do was book our seat by telephone the previous day. We met the bus at the Mercado shopping village on International Drive and were effortlessly transported to Tampa. I have to say that it is a very boring road with the only highlight being the Mickey shaped electricity pylon which the Central Florida Electricity Company erected to support the power cables which head to Walt Disney World.
   
However, the 1 hour journey is well worth it to enjoy another excellent theme park. Don't be put off by thinking that if you've been to Disney's Animal Kingdom this will be just the same - there are sufficient numbers of different attractions, rides, shows and animal enclosures to make this a most rewarding visit.
   
Busch Gardens roller coasters and thrill rides are much more adventurous than Animal Kingdom so be prepared to get very wet on the Tidal Wave and Congo River Rapids.

We spent a considerable time watching the spectators improving their skills at aiming water canon at unsuspecting riders on the River Rapids. By the time we left the "artillery" were more than able to deliver a several gallon water spout onto the top of a river raft with deadly accuracy!! Still - this is Florida and you soon dry out in the heat of the afternoon though its probably not a good idea to ride these attractions just before heading for the Orlando bound Shuttle Bus.