Fun for half price!

by Ann

Has it been a while since you've been to a zoo?  You don't need to have kids to enjoy attractions that boast of wild animals, rides that get you wet, or the entertainment of a circus or festival.   However, the entry fees to get into parks and events can make me think twice about how much I want to go.  When a "two for one" offer is available, it's a much more tempting option.

In the Phoenix area there are two zoos; one supported by tax dollars and the other a private enterprise.  Both are great places, but the independently owned World Wildlife Zoo offers a coupon granting two admissions for the price of one, which made the decision for our animal-seeking outing last weekend.  The adventure became greater when our good friends, Kim and Mark wanted to join us.

One of the things we like best about this zoo is that you can see most animals close-up.
(The white tiger does have a nice large habitat,
but he was also being very hospitable giving everyone a good look at him!)

If you like getting a deal, and aren't reluctant to use coupons, the Entertainment Book is a must-have!  There are literally hundreds of versions of the book available, regionally specific to different parts of the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico.  

When I was a high school club sponsor my students would sell the books in the fall for $35, and the club would earn about $10-$20 off of each book, depending upon the total number sold.  They were a relatively easy thing for the teenagers to sell. People who had experience with the books knew that they could easily make their money back by using just a couple of the coupons, which include many attractions, but also two for one coupons for fast food to nice restaurants; car washes to dry cleaners.

The books come out in the early fall and the coupons are good through the end of the following November.  In Arizona they can be purchased at our local drug stores, so are most likely available at yours as well.  However, the BEST deal is to get the books after the first of the year when the price drops from $35 to $15 if you buy them online, and that includes the shipping charge!

Part of the goal for the day was to figure out how to operate our new camera. (By the next time I use it I will have determined how to eliminate the date and time stamp).  My hubby was the photographer this time around, but one of my blog-related goals is to learn to take better pics.  Stay tuned to see when/if I become successful!

If you're willing to risk getting dirty there is an appointed time that  zoo guests can feed the birds.
(Good news -- no bird poop!)

Our fun day ended with a meal on the patio next to the flamingos.  Life is good...