THEME PARKS

Orlando is the theme park capital of the world, with Disney, Universal, Seaworld and Busch Gardens all within easy reach of our villas.

Walt Disney World, which is the size of a small city, is home to Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios and Epcot plus an entertainment district called Disney Springs where you can shop, dine and promenade to your heart's content. Not to mention the two water parks which cater for those looking to float effortlessly along the lazy river or those who want to rocket down the flumes.

Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure provides all the thrills of the movies as you ride white-knuckle roller coasters, immerse yourself in 3D experiences or meet your favourite filmstars and cartoon characters in person.

Seaworld and Busch Gardens offer a departure from Disney and Universal, focusing more on wildlife as the main attraction. That's not to say that they don't have their thrill rides as both parks have several stomach-churning coasters that will send your pulse racing. If you have time left after all that you might want to give Gatorland a try!

SHOPPING

If you need a break from the theme parks, Orlando has a plethora of shopping malls to offer distraction. The Mall at Millenia is the newest retail development that houses some of the biggest names in fashion whilst the Premium Outlets located on International Drive and near Lake Buena Vista offer some slightly more affordable bargains.

The Florida Mall a few miles west of the airport provides a typical American mall experience with some big brand name department stores and shops. Elsewhere, dotted all over Orlando you will find large retail parks and major stores selling everything you could possibly dream of and some things that you probably didn't!

Don't forget the main supermarkets such as Walmart, Target, Publix and Walgreens, to name but a few, are liberally sprinkled across the area for all your grocery needs. Further details on locations can be found in the information binder provided in each of our villas.

OUTDOOR LIVING

One of the best things about Florida is the weather, so why not get out and enjoy it? Orlando has a multitude of stunning golf courses designed by professional golfers such as Greg Norman, Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Nick Faldo and are often used to host the major professional tours.

If golf isn't your thing, then perhaps the miles of cycle paths or nature trails dotted around the counties may be of interest offering a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks. There are also boat trips, airboat rides, balloon or helicopter flights for those wanting something a little different.

Often overlooked is the fact that Orlando is awash with lakes offering the opportunity to those who may want to relax and enjoy a spot of fishing or some leisurely boating to a number of islands found throughout numerous picturesque waterways.

For those who like to mix a visit to the beach with a cultural diversion, there is the historical town of St Augustine or for a more modern piece of American history, visit Daytona Speedway and see the world famous race track.

BEACHES

Where else to enjoy the year round sunshine than at the beach and Florida boasts some of the most spectacular in the world.

Centrally located, Orlando offers just a short trip to either coast to enjoy golden sandy beaches and crystal clear, blue sea. The Space Coast to the east and Clearwater/St Pete's to the west are well worth a visit and for the more adventurous there are the Florida Keys, South Beach in Miami and Naples a little further afield.

However, in the Orlando area there are numerous lakes and several of these have their own man-made beaches that you can enjoy. You can take a dip in the lake, partake in water activities such as jetskis or paragliding, play in the sand or take a stroll along one of the nature trails. All the fun of being at the beach right on your doorstep