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Orlando is one of the world’s most visited family destinations, and while its illustrious themed attractions may steal the limelight
Think of Orlando
and I bet the first thing you think of is Mickey Mouse.
For millions
of people around the world Orlando has become synonymous with the magic of
Disney. Located in sunny Florida, this area of America is a Mecca for all
children big and small looking for an action packed holiday with more cartoon
characters than you can shake a stick at.
It is of
course home to Walt Disney World – a self contained city comprising of MGM
Studios, Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Epcot plus 3 water parks a shopping
district, numerous hotels and restaurants plus its own transport system. But
there is much more to Orlando.
Just in
case you haven’t been on enough white-knuckle rides, there is always Universal
Studios or Islands of Adventure. An absolute must is Sea World where you can
see some the of the world’s most spectacular sea creatures while dolphins,
killer whales and seals perform amazing aquatic acrobatics. If you want to get
closer there is always Discovery Cove where you can swim with rays and
dolphins.
Before you think that is all there is to Orlando, there are other
attractions too that don’t involve cartoon characters. There are an incredible
range of museums, shops, rides, nightlife, shows and themed restaurants. With
incredible scenery and gorgeous weather Orlando really is the place for
families – and because there is so much to do your children will never complain
they are bored.
Orlando has
a subtropical climate so generally enjoys wonderful weather all year round.
However summer temperatures can be uncomfortably hot and humid. Winters tend to
be dry and temperate with nighttime temperatures plunging surprisingly low. May
to September tends to be the time for thunderstorms but they are generally
short lived and heavy. Summer is also hurricane season from June to November.
The average
monthly temperatures are:
|
°C |
Jan |
Feb |
Mar |
Apr |
May |
Jun |
Jul |
Aug |
Sep |
Oct |
Nov |
Dec |
|
Day |
21 |
22 |
25 |
28 |
31 |
32 |
33 |
33 |
32 |
29 |
25 |
23 |
|
Night |
9 |
9 |
12 |
15 |
18 |
22 |
23 |
23 |
22 |
18 |
14 |
10 |
Your
plastic is going to hurt after a trip to Orlando. To say this is a shopper’s
paradise is an understatement. Whether you are looking for markets, factory
outlets, shopping malls or more Disney it’s all here. There are so many
shopping centres and outlets we have listed below a selection of some of the
best to get you started.
Although
not an outlet centre, Belz Factory Outlet store (4949 International Drive) is
well worth a visit too.
When you’ve
had enough of big store shopping there are also a few markets you can check out
such as Flea World (Route 17/92 between Orlando and Sanford) held every
weekend, Renninger’s Twin Markets and the Orlando Farmers Market (Lake Eola)
which is held every Sunday.
Orlando and
Walt Disney World are entertainment central. There is always something going
on. All the big resorts and hotels run their own entertainment, live shows and
music events. However there are also some independent venues you might like to
check out.
If you
enjoy theatre you will be spoilt for choice. All the resorts have their own
theatres so check with your hotel for details. The best of the other venues
are:
If you like
to combine dinner with theatre there are several fantastic shows (ask your
hotel for details) such as:
For those
with enough energy to party long into the night you will be spoilt for choice.
There are 100s of clubs many within the resorts. It is impossible to name them
all here but here are a few of the current top venues you could try:
There are also numerous opportunities for playing golf, horse riding, fishing and catching the latest block buster at the cinema. Your hotel will be able to provide you with details of the nearest venues.
January
March
April
June
July
September
October
November
December
Boredom
rarely creeps into a holiday in Orlando, the main problem you’ll have is
fitting everything in. However should you need to get away from Disney for a
while, there are several other attractions and places to visit. Your hotel will
be able to provide you with details of local tour companies and possible
excursions, but below are a few suggestions to get you started.
The water
is safe to drink and you should make sure you drink plenty to avoid
dehydration. Always carry some with you and make sure you use plenty of sun
cream especially when out and about in the parks.
Medical
insurance is a must. There is no NHS in America and the treatment you receive
is expensive.