Orlando (Florida)

Introduction

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Orlando, Florida, is host to over 52 million visitors each year. Famous for its theme parks, the city and local area has more hotel beds than any other city in the USA, except for Las Vegas. It is the county seat of Orange County. Located in Central Florida, it is the center of the Orlando metropolitan area, which had a population of 2,387,138, according to U.S. Census Bureau figures released in March 2016, making it the 24th largest metropolitan area in the United States, the sixth largest metropolitan area in the Southern United States, and the third largest metropolitan area in Florida.

Neighbourhoods

There are over 100 neighbourhoods in Orlando.

Sights and Activities

Walt Disney World

Four theme parks - Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios and Disney's Animal Kingdom, and two water parks - Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon - comprise the world famous Walt Disney World Resort. It is said that people should allow seven full days to explore the 47 square miles of pure fun. Magic Kingdom's Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin and The Barnstormer at Goofy's Wiseacre Farm are considered to be amongst the best family theme park rides in the world. Animal Kingdom's Dinosaur and It's Tough to Be a Bug are also widely known as great thrill and 3-D simulation rides respectively.

Universal Studios Florida

Love films? Love shopping? Universal Orlando Resort may live up everyone's expectations. All the rides and attractions at Universal have been designed so that people can feel immersed into the most popular Universal Studios films. Men in Black Alien Attack, Back to the Future: The Ride, E.T. Adventure, Terminator 2: 3D, and the Simpsons ride have been highly rated by theme-park fans. Universal Studios' sister site, the Island of Adventure offers the most innovative rides and attractions ever created, such as The Amazing Adventures of Spiderman, Dudley Do-Right's Ripsaw Falls and Incredible Hulk Coaster. For those looking for other type of entertainment, CityWalk is full of shops, restaurants and clubs.

Seaworld

When visiting Orlando and particularly the theme parks, it is strongly advisable to start with SeaWorld Adventure Park, as its stadium style shows ensure short queues under the heat. The park features sea lion, dolphin and orca shows, which run at particular times. Therefore it is also good to plan in advance the day with the help of a show schedule.

Discovery Cove

Discovery cove is not the typical park in Florida, it is more about interacting with nature and animals. People have the chance to swim with dolphins, learn about exotic birds, tropical fishes and land mammals, explore artificial coves. Situated just opposite to SeaWorld, there are no roller coasters and all people need is swimming suits and snorkels for the day.

Wet 'N Wild

Considered America's best water park, Wet'N Wild has attractions for the entire family. It was also given the first Lifetime Achievement Award by the World Waterpark Association thanks to its high quality service and world-class thrill rides, which ensure a full-day of fun. It is run by Universal Studios Recreational Group since 1998 and it is strategically located on International drive.

Aquatica Park

Aquatica, SeaWorld's waterpark has got the most thrilling rides amongst Orlando's water parks. There are two river rides, a couple of massive wave pools, more than 30 water slides and white sand beaches, surrounded by the most amazing and exotic sceneries. The park is part of the Worlds of Discovery, who also run Busch Gardens Tampa and Adventure Island.

Other Sights and Activities

• Central Florida Zoo - This zoo features over 125 different animal species in addition to ZOOMair - a ropes course above the trees.
• Mandara Spa - With locations across the world, Mandara offers relaxing spa treatments for everyone.
• Eo Inn and Spa - Orlando's premiere boutique hotel and day spa.
• Kennedy Space Center - Take a special look into NASA, train in a space simulator, meet a real astronaut - and if you come on the right day you can even watch a rocket launch.
• Fantasy of Flight - An educational exhibit on the history of air flight.
• Revolution: The Off Road Experience - Offers 4-wheeling, 4x4, dune buggying and more.
• Sammy Duvall's Watersports Centre - http://www.sammyduvall.com/ - Riding on watercrafts and parasailing above Disney make this an experience for people looking for thrills in and above the water.
• Green Meadows Farm - Kids and families will enjoy this peaceful petting zoo.
• The Holy Land Experience - A religious museum/theme park re-creating the biblical times.
• Gatorland - An alligator preserve that allows you a hands-on experience.
• Enzian Theater - A cinema for the indie/alternative crowd that also offers food and alcoholic beverages.
• The Orlando Eye - Standing at 400-Feet high, The Orlando Eye is the largest observation wheel on the East Coast. Enjoy the view of Central Orlando in all directions , with sights of downtown Orlando’s skyline, theme parks, lakes and lush landscape, and on a clear day, views of Cape Canaveral on the east coast. Address: 8401 International Drive, Phone: (866) 228-6438

Events and Festivals

Check the Orlando Events Calendar for more information.

Holidays

• New Year’s Eve - The US celebrates the outgoing of the old year and incoming of the New Year quite dramatically. Every state boasts its own parties to ring in the New Year, but none is more extravagant than New York’s Time Square, which sees people overflowing into the neighboring restaurants, bars, parks, beaches, and neighborhoods.
• Martin Luther King Jr. Day (officially Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. and sometimes referred to as MLK Day) is an American federal holiday marking the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. It is observed on the third Monday of January each year, which is around King's birthday, January 15. The holiday is similar to holidays set under the Uniform Monday Holiday Act. The earliest Monday for this holiday is January 15 and the latest is January 21. King was the chief spokesperson for nonviolent activism in the Civil Rights Movement, which successfully protested racial discrimination in federal and state law.
• St Patrick’s Day - March 17 celebrates the US’s large Irish population. Many cities around the country boast boisterous parades and Irish-themed parties, especially New York and Chicago, where the river is dyed green. Be wary of the drunkenness that dominates as this is definitely a party-day.
• Memorial Day - Memorial Day is an important holiday throughout the United States, but not for crazy festivities. Parades commemorating wartime heroes are often held and the day is also the ‘unofficial’ start of summer. Most visitors follow the crowds to parks and beaches, which are capped off with informal BBQs.
• Independence Day - Also known as the Fourth of July, Independence Day celebrates the US’s break from the British during the 18th century. Barbecues, street parties, beach trips, and weekend getaways are commonplace to appreciate freedom.
• Labor Day is a public holiday celebrated on the first Monday in September. It honors the American labor movement and the contributions that workers have made to the strength, prosperity, laws, and well-being of the country. It is the Monday of the long weekend known as Labor Day Weekend. It is recognized as a federal holiday. Beginning in the late 19th century, as the trade union and labor movements grew, trade unionists proposed that a day be set aside to celebrate labor.
• Halloween - Halloween is a fun holiday on October 31 for all generations to dress up in costumes and relive their youth. Children walk around the neighborhood trick-or-treating for candy, while adults attend parties. Other seasonal events include haunted houses, pumpkin farms and carving, and corn mazes.
• Thanksgiving - On the fourth Thursday in November, Thanksgiving is held in almost every home in the US. Tourists will have a hard time finding anything to do as the country essentially shuts down in observation. A typical Thanksgiving meal consists of turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie commemorating the original Pilgrim’s feast at Plymouth Rock.
• Christmas - On December 25, Christians celebrate Christmas as the pinnacle of their calendar by attending church and opening gifts from Santa Claus. Almost everything shuts down to promote family togetherness. The northern regions hope to experience a “white Christmas,” with trees and festive lights blanketed by snow.

Sport

• Super Bowl Sunday - the world’s most watched sporting event and one of the highest grossing TV days of the year, Superbowl Sunday is a spectacular extravaganza. Held the first Sunday in February, the Superbowl is the final playoff game between the NFL’s top two teams. The venue rotates every year around America, yet the local parties seem to remain. Pubs, bars and restaurants are great places to enjoy the Superbowl or locals throw their own parties with different variations of betting.
• The World Series is the annual championship series of Major League Baseball (MLB) in North America, contested since 1903 between the American League (AL) champion team and the National League (NL) champion team. The winner of the World Series championship is determined through a best-of-seven playoff, and the winning team is awarded the Commissioner's Trophy. As the series is played during the fall season in North America, it is sometimes referred to as the Fall Classic.

Weather

Orlando has a temperate tropical climate with generally warm and humid weather. Winters last from December to February but it's mostly around or slightly above 20 °C during the day and around 10 °C at night. Snow and frost are very rare, but have occured during extreme circumstances when winds directly from the north blow down to Florida. Summers from late May to September are unbearably hot and humid with days generally over 30 °C and nights between 20 °C and 24 °C. Most rain falls during this period, but a shower or two is also possible during the winter months. From June to November is also hurricane season, though Orlando is not as severely hit as coastal areas in general.

Getting There

By Plane

• Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the major airport for the city and many airlines serve destinations within the USA and to Europe and South America. The airport is located about 11 kilometres from the CBD of Orlando. It's the second busiest airport in Florida and even in the top 30 worldwide. Orlando International Airport is a domestic destination for Frontier Airlines, JetBlue Airways & Southwest Airlines. There are many international destinations throughout North America, South America and Europe. Orlando International has two components: landside and airside. There is a central landside terminal (one building divided into sides "A" and "B"), containing airline counters, baggage claim, rental agencies, numerous shops, and a hotel. This central terminal is connected via trams to four other terminals, known as Airside 1-4, with the airplane gates. There are plenty of shops and restaurants in the central terminal and the airsides.

Security screening is performed in the central landside terminal before taking the tram to the airsides and, as in all U.S. airports, only ticketed passengers are allowed past security. Security lines can become extremely long (1 hr), especially during the summer tourist season and near holidays. Combined with long check-in lines, it is advisable to arrive 2-3 hours before your scheduled departure.

To/from the airport

• Bus: Lynx provides a sub-station at the airport with service to Downtown Orlando and other area routes.
• A complimentary coach transportation service for guests staying at Walt Disney World resort hotels. The motor coach service is operated by Mears Transportation. Guests have to book in advance reservations.
• Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Lines, Disney Cruise Line, SunCruz Casinos, Sterling Casinos and Mears Transportation all run scheduled buses from the airport to Port Canaveral for incoming cruise passengers
• The community of The Villages in Sumter, Lake, and Marion counties operates a shuttle between the community and Orlando International Airport. The shuttle stops at Lake Sumter Landing and Spanish Springs
• Taxis and rental cars are both widely available at the airport as well.
• Orlando is the "rental car capital of the world" and, as can be expected, there are many car rental agencies offering a large number and wide range of vehicles for rental. There are also many car rental agencies off-site which provide free airport transfers from their location and may offer lower prices (See OIA website.) Rental agencies at the airport are: Advantage Rent A Car (+1 407-857-1999), Alamo (+1 800-327-9633), Avis (+1 800-831-2847), Budget (+1 800-527-0700), Dollar Car Rental (Domestic: +1 800-800-4000, International: +1 800-800-6000), Enterprise Rent-A-Car (+1 800-325-8007), E-Z Rent A Car (+1 800-277-5171), Hertz Car Rental (+1 800-654-3131), L and M Car Rental (+1 407-888-0515), National (+1 800-227-7368), Thrifty (+1 800-367-2277). Beware: Several gas stations near the airport prey on visitors topping off the tanks of rental cars by charging extraordinarily high prices ($2-3/gallon above local prices)! The practice has made national news and all stations are now required to display their prices on road-side displays. Nonetheless, there are still many unsuspecting visitors who are shocked to pull up to a gas pump with regular unleaded gas for $4.70/gallon, when stations a few blocks away are charging just $2.20!

• Orlando Sanford Airport (SFB) caters for scheduled and charter flights from Europe, plus flights to and from the Caribbean. Allegiant Air serves around 30 domestic routes. The airport has strong ties to European charter and holiday airlines. Service between Orlando Sanford International and Europe includes: Easyjet (Manchester; seasonally to Belfast-International, Glasgow-International, & London-Gatwick); Thomson Airways (Birmingham, London-Gatwick, Manchester; seasonally to Bristol, East Midlands, Edinburgh, Glasgow, & Newcastle upon Tyne); Arkefly (Amsterdam); and Icelandair (Reykjavik, seasonal). EasyJet and Thomson flights can only be booked round-trip, originating in Europe; passengers cannot book outbound flights from Orlando-Sanford on these airlines.

By Train

• The Silver Service/Palmetto, operated by Amtrak, travels between New York and Orlando.
• The Autotrain travels between Lorton, Virginia (near Washington DC) and Orlando.

By Bus

• ATC Buses, 3916 Scotsboro Ct. Offers bus charter transportation to and from the Orlando Airport to Port Canaveral Cruises and hotels in the Orlando-Sanford area.
• Greyhound, 555 N John Young Pkwy. Visitors arriving by Greyhound can go south on SR-423 to I-4 to get to the major attractions.
• Runways Transportation Company, Orlando International Airport, Terminal A, Level 1, Spaces A15-A16. Runways offers daily intercity shuttle service to Gainesville, University of Florida, and Jacksonville International Airport.
• Megabus, 902 N Semoran Blvd (northwest corner of Semoran Blvd and Colonial Dr). Service from Atlanta, Jacksonville, Gainesville, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Tallahassee, Mobile, and New Orleans.

Getting Around

By Car

The car is omnipresent in Orlando, and it is a very easy and convenient (if not congested) way to get to your destination. Orlando is a sprawling city with most attractions lying far to the south of the CBD and into adjacent cities like Kissimmee. The roads are all wide and easy to drive on with all major attractions well signed, but traffic jams around downtown are common in the afternoons, and around the touristy areas on Friday nights and all day Saturday. Orlando ranks 8th in the nation in terms of traffic congestion, and there are numerous ongoing construction projects on area expressways.

The main highway through Orlando, and the only interstate serving it, is Interstate 4 (commonly called "I-4") which runs diagonally from northeast to southwest across the Orlando area. In recent years major construction on it has widened it through areas south of S.R. 528 making it a commuter-friendly highway (except for traffic during rush hours and Friday and Saturday evenings). Downtown Orlando; International Drive; Amway Arena; the Mall at Millenia; Arabian Nights dinner theater; and theme parks such as Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Sea World, Discovery Cove, the Holy Land Experience, and Wet n' Wild are all conveniently located along/near I-4.

Other major highways include the Beach Line Expressway (SR 528), a toll road (formerly the Bee Line) which runs east from I-4 (exit 72) towards the Space Coast beaches and Kennedy Space Center, Cocoa Beach, and Port Canaveral. SR 528 is, like all Orlando area expressways (which doesn't include I-4), a toll road. While tolls are modest for short trips within Orlando, tolls can quickly add on long cross-town trips. Bypassing Orlando on SR 417 is $5.50 for 55 mi (89 km). The Central Florida GreeneWay (SR 417) starts at I-4 just west of SR-192/Disney World. It takes you north, passing both the Orlando International Airport and the Orlando-Sanford International Airport. It ends at I-4 in Sanford. SR 408 starts at SR-50 on the east side of Orlando, by the University of Central Florida and takes you past the west side of Orlando to the city of Ocoee, FL. It ends at the Florida Turnpike. S.R. 429 starts in Apopka, FL at U.S. 441 and takes you past the Florida Turnpike and Disney World. It ends at I-4, just west of SR-192/Disney World. Florida's Turnpike starts in Miami, FL at I-95 and takes you north through Orlando and ends in Wildwood at I-75. See this convenient toll calculator online: [6].

In Orlando, the main tourism area is International Drive, a strip of road that runs parallel to I-4 for about 10 miles (16 km). Many tourist-focused shops, restaurants, and attractions are to be found along this road; therefore, it is excruciatingly hard to drive on and find parking along this road on weekends, especially in the summer and from Thanksgiving to New Year's Day, and excursions to this area are best by bus during such times. Other major roads include: U.S. 192 in Kissimmee (fronted by thousands of small shops and attractions), Orange Blossom Trail (US 17/92/441... a North-South alternative to I-4), John Young Parkway (which can be an alternative to US-441), and SR 50 (E-W route towards the CBD).

Many international rental companies have a wide selection of rental cars and these include Sixt Hertz, Avis, Dollar, Thrifty, Enterprise, Budget and Alamo/National. Most companies will require you are at least 25 years of age, although younger people might be able to rent cars at slightly higher rates and with some insurance differences as well. A national driver's license is usually enough, but an additional international one is recommended. Also note that it usually costs more to include lots of other extra things. For example extra drivers, GPS, the first full tank, SLI (Supplemental Liability Insurance), PAI (Personal Accident Insurance, usually covered already at home), road assistance/service plan, and drop-off costs for one-way rentals.
If you want to book a car, it is recommended that you book your car before arriving in the USA. This is almost always (much) cheaper compared to just showing up. Also, try and book with a so-called 'broker', which usually works together with a few or many car rental companies and can offer the best deal. Some examples include Holidayautos, Holidaycars and Sunny Cars. Some of the cheapest deals to book from Europe, includes Drive-USA, which also has a German version.

For more information and tips about renting cars and campers, additional costs, insurance, traffic rules, scenic routes and getting maps and fuel it is advised to check the USA Getting Around section.

By Taxi

Orlando is visited by millions of tourists each year and this means that the region require more taxis to serve this great population of travelers. There are several taxi companies that are operational in the region.

By Public Transport

• Lynx provides local bus services which reach most corners of the Orlando area. They call at the Disney Transportation Center, which there are transfers to Disney's own transport to their parks and resorts. LYNX buses of interest to visitors include Links (routes) 8, 21, 37, 38, 40, 42, 50, and 111 -- e.g., bus 8, 38, or 42 for International Drive, Links 21, 37, or 40 for Universal, Links 8, 38, 50, or 111 for SeaWorld, Link 50 for Disney, and Links 37, 42, or 111 for Florida Mall. Seven-day standard passes are $16.
• SunRail, +1-855-RAIL-411 (7245-411). It is limited to a north-south route through the center of the area, with an initial southern end at Poinciana, and northern end in DeBary. Bus connection is provided from Orlando International Airport to the Sand Lake Road station by Links 11, 42 and 111; and from Orlando-Sanford International Airport to the Sanford station by Link 46E. Base one-way fare is $2, with an addition of $1 for each county line crossed. An all-day pass costs $9.50. There is no service on weekends and some federal holidays.
• I-Ride Trolley, +1 407-248-9590. Along International Drive and Universal Blvd, this trolley primarily serves tourists in the attractions area, operating daily from 8AM to 10:30PM. While the service is advertised as a trolley, the trolleys are in fact modified buses traveling in traffic with many stops, which makes for a slow ride. There are 85 stops along the main (Red) route on International Drive and 22 stops on the (Green) route that serves less congested Universal Blvd. The fare is $2 per ride for adults, $1 for children ages 3 to 9, 25¢ for seniors, and free to toddlers younger than 3; exact change is required. There's an unlimited 1-day pass available for $5 per person. One-day and multi-day passes, not sold on the bus, are available in many locations. However, because of the very limited route coverage of I-Ride – it goes nowhere near Disney - the better choice for many visitors is to use LYNX buses (e.g., bus 8, 42, 50, or 111).

Eat

A wide variety of restaurants can be found in CityWalk at Universal Orlando, including Margaritaville, Hard Rock Cafe, Pastamore, NASCAR Cafe and much more. Parking is $14 during the day and $3 after 6PM (except during holidays or special events, such as Halloween Horror Nights). Much choice can also be found in Disney Springs, including Rainforest Cafe, Planet Hollywood, and Wolfgang Puck Cafe. Texas de Brazil, is a Brazilian steakhouse in the heart of downtown, serving beef, chicken, lamb and pork in many preparations.

• Fulton's Crab House - A traditional style crabhouse right on the water located in Downtown Disney.
• Kres Chophouse - An upscale steak house located in Downtown Orlando.
• Emeril's - Famous chef Emeril Lagasse's restaurant located at Universal's CityWalk.
• Luma on Park - American cuisine with an extensive wine list.
• Funky Monkey Wine Company - A restaurant featuring a variety of sushi and wine.
• Norman's - Impeccable, somewhat affordable food inside the Ritz Carlton.
• 310 Lakeside - Classic American cuisine overlooking Lake Eola.
• Cala Bella - A seafood restaurant located at Shingle Creek Resort.
• Ming Court - Nightly oriental folk music performances compliment a wide selection of sushi, dim sum and more.
• K Restaurant Wine Bar - Upscale American dining.
• Le Coq Au Vin - A modern twist is given to classic french foods at this restaurant.
• The Black Olive - Mediterranean inspired Italian cuisine.
• Urban Flats - Flatbreads and wine are the centerpiece of this modern-casual restaurant and wine bar.
• Hamburger Mary's - A gay-friendly burger joint with drag shows and drinks.
• Cuba Libre - A cuban restaurant that turns into a Latin dance club by night.

Drink

Orlando nightlife away from the theme parks is centered mostly around Central Boulevard and Orange Avenue in downtown Orlando. Here you can walk and find many bars. A short walk away is the tiny Thornton Park District, located near the intersection of Washington and Summerlin. Among the dozens of cafes and pubs, you might stop in for a drink and a quick bite at Dexter's on Washington. For local flair head across the street to Burton's Frosty Mug, or sample the hip urban environment at the trendy HUE at the corner of Washington and Central.

Although most of the downtown Central avenue crowd is comprised of the "twentysomething" generation, for a more 30s and over entertainment experience, one can enjoy live jazz on many nights in the lounge of the Grand Bohemian Hotel located downtown on Orange Avenue. The jazz is excellent and the ambiance is quite comfortable, although drinks tend to be pretty pricey here.

Also, for a more professional crowd with a Latin twist, there is the Samba Room, located on Sand Lake Road, about 3/4 west of I-4. This is a lively restaurant and happy hour type of place. The look is chic and the locals and tourists alike gather here for a quality food, beverage and people watching experience. You should ditch the shorts and flip-flops for a more casual chic look, but if you do you will be rewarded with a nice experience here. If you are traveling west on Sand Lake Road, after passing I-4, The Samba Room is on the left in a large shopping plaza. Latin food, music and mojitos are just some of the specialties here.

Across the street from the Samba Room, on Sand Lake Road, is the Old Vines wine bar, featuring live jazz usually from Thurs. through Saturday nights. The wine selection is extensive and the live jazz is some of the best in town. The jazz is performed in the front of the room by the entrance. There is a divider that separates the more intimate rear portion of the establishment, which is the main dining area.

There are quite a few places to enjoy quality dining and drinks along Park Avenue in Winter Park, an adjacent suburb which is just northeast of Orlando. Winter Park is known for its many older grande homes that dominate the more historic sections of this suburb affectionately referred to by many as the center of Orlando's "old money." Park Avenue is an active pedestrian street featuring trendy shoppes, galleries, restaurants and nightspots. It has recently grown from becoming a one street attraction to more of a district, as several nearby streets have now added similar attractions.

Of particular interest and uniqueness on Park Avenue is the Wine Room, a converted bank featuring literally hundreds of wines available for self-serve sampling. The mode of purchasing here is to pre-load a wine "credit card" supplied by the Wine Room. You are then at liberty to peruse the entire building and select any wine you wish to try, merely by inserting your "credit card." Each wine station automatically deducts the value of your current purchase and advises you of your card balance. Dress is very casual here and you are likely to meet both locals and visitors, all sampling and enjoying their vinos of choice throughout the night.

At the theme parks, CityWalk at Universal Studios. For a nominal admission fee, both sites offer numerous venues for libations and entertainment. If you're staying along International Drive, there are plenty of bars, pubs, and clubs.

• Corona Cigar Company's Superstore & Cigar Bar, 7792 West Sand Lake Rd, ☎ +1 407 248-1212. If you're interested in cigars and all the different kinds of cigars, then this place is for you. The Corona Cigar Company allows its customers to sample different cigars. They also serve drinks. edit
• Howl At The Moon, 8815 International Dr, ☎ +1 407 354-5999. Entertainers perform songs at request all night. A place where people can go to listen to music, dance, drink, and have fun. edit
• Orena Sports Bar, 6159 Westwood Blvd, ☎ +1 407 370-0303. Orena Sports Bar caters to both locals and tourists. The bar serves food and drinks. Visitors can go to eat, play games, watch sports games and more. edit
• Velvet Bar at Hard Rock Hotel, 5800 Universal Blvd, ☎ +1 407 503-3463. Sit down, relax and listen to music. Velvet Bar also has live bands. edit
• Blue Martini, 4200 Conroy Road Suite H246, ☎ +1 407 447-2583. Blue Martini is a very high end martini bar. People can enjoy live entertainment at the bar. edit
• Dave & Buster's Inc., 8986 International Dr, ☎ +1 407 541-3306. Dave & Buster's is family friendly. Kids and adults can enjoy a great meal and play a variety of games. There is also a bar for the adults where they can sit, order drinks, and watch a sports game.

Sleep

With a hotel around virtually every corner (actually 4 or 5 around every corner) it seems impossible to throw a rock and not hit a hotel. There are hotels to meet every traveler's need, whether it be a hostel or a 5-star resort, although many visiting families often prefer to rent their own private villa as they usually provide much more personal space and have their own private facilities. There are also a large number of lodgings in the surrounding cities and towns.

• AmeriSuites, 8741 International Dr, 5895 Caravan Ct, ☎ +1 407 370-4720.
• Baymont Inn & Suites Orlando, 7531 Canada Ave, ☎ +1-407 226-9887.
• Rodeway Inn, 6119 S Orange Blossom Trl, ☎ +1-407 545-6465. Free wireless high-speed Internet access and continental breakfast.
• Suburban Extended Stay South, 9435 Delegates Dr, ☎ +1-407 251-1110.
• Caribe Royale All-Suite Hotel & Convention Center, 8101 World Center Dr, ☎ +1 407 238-8000. Check-in: 4PM, check-out: 11AM. Features modest yet roomy suites with separated living space, numerous dining options, large pool area with waterslide. Offers a full-service fitness center and spa. Popular with business travelers for its conference amenities, the hotel also caters well to families and tourists.
• Clarion Inn & Suites/Convention Center, 9956 Hawaiian Ct, ☎ +1 407 351-5100. Walking distance from the Point Orlando and offers free wireless Internet access.
• Comfort Suites Universal Studios Area, 5617 Major Blvd, toll-free: +1-800-475-1694. Less than one mile from Universal Studios, free ground transportation to theme parks available.
• Doubletree Castle, 8629 International Dr. Designed as a medieval themed palace. 216 rooms and suites.
• DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel at the Entrance to Universal Orlando, 5780 Major Blvd, ☎ +1 407 351-1000, e-mail: stay@doubletreeorlando.com. Check-in: 4PM, check-out: 11AM. Located near Universal Orlando Resort, the hotel has 3 onsite restaurants, bars, swimming pool and fitness center. Also offering complimentary internet in rooms, business center, with 60,000 sq. ft. of meeting space.
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando International Drive Convention Center, 8978 International Dr, ☎ +1 407 352-1400. 244 two-room suites.
• Enclave Suites Resort, 6165 Carrier Dr, toll-free: +1-800-457-0077, fax: +1 407-351-2001. 2 outdoor pools, kiddie pools, and hot tubs, tennis court, fitness center, indoor heated pool and hot tub. 2/2 suites w/ kitchens, sofa beds, and balcony.
• Four Points by Sheraton Orlando Studio City, 5905 International Dr, ☎ +1 407 351-2100. 301 rooms.
• Hawthorn Suites, 6435 Westwood Blvd, 8303 Palm Pkwy, ☎ +1 407 351-6600, +1 407-597-5000.
• Hilton Grand Vacations Suites at SeaWorld, 6924 Grand Vacations Way (off Central Florida Pkwy), ☎ +1 407 239-0100. Check-in: 4PM, check-out: 10AM. Official Hotel Partner of SeaWorld. Studios with kitchenettes, one- and two- bedroom suites with full kitchens. 2 pools, activity center, fitness center, grills, free scheduled shuttle.
• Hilton Grand Vacations Suites on International Drive, 8122 Arrezzo Way (at Vineland Ave), ☎ +1 407 465-2600. Check-in: 4PM, check-out: 10AM. Studios with kitchenettes, one- and two- bedroom suites with full kitchens. 2 pools, activity center, fitness center, grills, meeting rooms.
• Howard Johnson Plaza Hotel and Suites, 9956 Hawaiian Ct, toll-free: +1-800-826-4847. A "AAA 3-Diamond" award winner, 223 rooms, high-speed Internet access, adjacent to Orlando's Orange County Convention Center.
• Howard Johnson Tropical Palms Resort, 4311 West Vine St. (W. 192), toll-free: +1-800-388-7698, fax: +1 407-358-5140, e-mail: reservations@hojotropicalpalms.com. 175 rooms, high-speed Internet access.
• Hyatt Regency Orlando International, 9300 Airport Blvd. Business facilities available, located within the terminal.
• International Palms Resort, 6515 International Dr, ☎ +1 407 351-3500.
• JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes, 4040 Central Florida Pkwy, ☎ +1 407 206-2301. Resort hotel with a spa and Greg Norman-designed golf course.
• Marriott's Cypress Harbour, 11251 Harbour Villa Rd (South Orlando), ☎ +1 407 238-1300, toll-free: +1-800-845-5279. Offers two-bedroom, two-bath villas near Sea World.
• Marriott's Grande Vista Resort, 5925 Avenida Vista, ☎ +1 407 238-7676, toll-free: +1-800-845-5279. One-, two- and three-bedroom villas with kitchens.
• Orlando Marriott Downtown, 400 W Livingston St.
• Orlando Vista Hotel, 12490 Apopka Vineland Rd.
• Parc Corniche Condominium Orlando Suite Hotel, 6300 Parc Corniche Dr, ☎ +1 407 239-7100, toll-free: +1-800-446-2721, fax: +1 407 239-8501.
• Parc Soleil Suites by Hilton Grand Vacations, 11272 Desforges Ave (off Palm Pkwy), ☎ +1 407 465-4000. Check-in: 4PM, check-out: 10AM. Studios with kitchenettes, one- and two-bedroom suites with full kitchens. 2 pools, activity center, fitness center, playground, tennis court, meeting rooms
• Quality Suites Universal, 7400 Canada Ave, ☎ +1 407 363-0332, fax: +1 407 352-2598. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: 11AM. $100.
• Ramada Inn Orlando Hotel, 6500 International Dr, ☎ +1 407-345-5340, toll-free: +1-800-272-6232. The only Ramada Hotel on International Drive across Wet 'n Wild. King and double lakefront rooms, free breakfast, internet access and shuttle to attractions.
• Reunion Resort and Club, 7593 Gathering Dr, Reunion, ☎ +1 407 622-1000. Resort 6 mi from Walt Disney World. Condos, villas, and private homes available. 3 championship golf courses, Waterpark with lazy river, ANNIKA Academy, dining, and personal concierge service.
• Westgate Leisure Resort, 6950 Villa de Costa Dr. Two bedroom villas w/ kitchens & washer/dryers; pools, fitness center; 1 mi from SeaWorld.
• Westgate Palace, 6145 Carrier Dr. Two bedroom suites w/kitchens & washer/dryers; within walking distance International Dr; pool, basketball, 1 mi from Universal Resort.
• World Quest Resort, 8849 WorldQuest Blvd, toll-free: +1-877-987-8378.
• Bahama Bay Resort & Spa, 400 Gran Bahama Blvd, ☎ +1 863-547-1200. Caribbean-style resort 10 minutes from Orlando attractions.
• Floridays Resort, 12562 International Dr, ☎ +1-877-821-3018, toll-free: +1-877-821-3018, e-mail: customerservice@floridaysorlando.com. Check-in: 4PM, check-out: 11AM. Well-appointed suites with family-friendly floorplans, Mediterranean style decor, and modern furnishings. $135.
• Doubletree Resort Orlando, 10100 International Dr.
• Grand Bohemian Hotel, 325 S Orange Ave, ☎ +1 407-313-9000. Centrally located. 250 rooms and suites.
• Hard Rock Hotel. The famous rock 'n roll themed hotel combines restaurants, clubs and shows to provide an entertaining place to stay.
• Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Orlando Hotel, One Grand Cypress Blvd, ☎ +1 407 239-1234. Provides golf, tennis, pools, bikes, kayaks, boating, dining and meeting facilities.
• The Peabody Orlando Hotel, 9801 International Dr. Home to the famous Peabody Ducks; across the street from the Orange County Convention Center.
• Ramada Coop Florida, 8427 South Park Cir, toll-free: +1-866-700-4316.
• Ritz Carlton & JW Marriott Grande Lakes, 4040 Central Florida Pkwy. Two hotels sharing a golf course, spa, creative lazy river pool, and two restaurants.
• The Woodhouse Day Spa, 8060 Via Dellagio Way, ☎ +1 407-965-3131, e-mail: orlando@woodhousespas.com. 6,000 square feet of luxury and relaxation, located on restaurant row.
• Wyndham Orlando Resort, 8001 International Dr, ☎ +1 407 351-2420, toll-free: +1-877-999-3223. Check-in: 4PM, check-out: 11AM. Opened in October 2011.
• Lake Eve Resort, 12388 International Dr South Orlando Florida, ☎ +1 407 597-0370, toll-free: +1-866-999-5383, fax: +1 407-597-0371, e-mail: info@lakeeveresort.com. 176 all-suite accommodations equipped with full kitchens, washers and dryer included in every room.

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Learn

• University of Central Florida
• Webster University Orlando
• De Vry University Orlando

Keep Connected

Internet

There is a very small internet bar/cafe culture in the USA. Even then most of the internet bars/cafes tend be located in major urban centers. Accessible WiFi networks, however, are common. The most generally useful WiFi spots are in coffee shops, fast-food chains, and bookshops, but also restaurants and hotels more and more have a network to connect on. Some of them might require you to buy something and you might need a password too, especially in hotels.

Phone

See also International Telephone Calls

The general emergency phone number is 911. The USA has a great landline phone system that is easy to use. The country code for the U.S. is +1. The rest of the telephone number consists of 10 digits: a 3-digit area code, and a 7-digit number. Any small grocery store or pharmacy has pre paid domestic or international phone cards. These phone cards are very cheap and offer good rates. The once ubiquitous pay phone is now much harder to find. Likely locations include in or near stores and restaurants, and near bus stops. The cellphone network in the states is slowly getting better but is still not as good when compared to other western countries. Cell phones tend to operate using different frequencies (850 MHz and 1900 MHz) from those used elsewhere in the world (2100 MHz). This used to prevent most foreign phones from working in America. Phones must be tri- or quad-band to work in the U.S. Fortunately, technology has meant that most phones should now be able to pick up one of the U.S. networks. Prepaid phones and top-up cards can be purchased at mobile phone boutiques and at many discount, electronics, office supply and convenience stores. A very basic handset with some credit can be had for under $40.

Post

The US Postal Service is a very good and well priced mail system. There are post offices in every small and large town for sending packages internationally or domestically. Although some might keep longer hours, most are open at least between 9:00am and 5:00pm. If wanting to send a letter or postcard it is best just to leave it in a blue mail box with the proper postage. First-class international airmail postcards and letters (up 28.5 grams) cost $1.10. There are also private postal services like FedEx, UPS, TNT and DHL, which might be better value sometimes and are generally very quick and reliable too.

External Links

• Official Website
• Tourism Bureau