Florida.co.uk
Website for visitors to Florida, the greatest holiday destination in the world
Author: Zara Baker
Publisher: Latest 7 magazine
Date: August 11, 2009
Rights: Latest 7 magazine
Zara Baker finds Orlando, Florida really is the happiest place on earth
Firstly, believe the hype: Orlando is amazing. As the home to Disney and some of the most exciting theme parks in the world, it has something for all ages; if the big rides aren't for you, each park has a number of shows and attractions to keep you occupied.
And with constant innovations - Universal's Islands Of Adventure park, for instance, is set to open its Hogwarts in 2010 - there are always reasons to return.
You know what to expect when it comes to Florida, so here're some tips on planning your Orlando trip...
Pictured above is a rare white alligator at Gatorland.
Book your theme park tickets in advance to save money and time on the day. Hire a car if you're confident driving in the States. The distance between parks can take you by surprise: Walt Disney World alone covers nearly 50 miles.
If you do rely on public transport, taxis are incredibly cheap and most hotel/apartments based on International Drive offer free shuttles.
Prepare for the weather! Orlando is incredibly hot, reaching 90°F plus in the summer months. Stay hydrated with plenty of water on trips to avoid heat exhaustion. The storm season stretches from June to November, and when it storms out there, it really storms. Pack a rain coat - you'll need it. All rides close temporarily in severe weather. If the weather outlook looks bleak for the entire day, visit the outlet stores. Designer clothes including Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger are available at a fraction of the normal cost.
Finally, discover something new. It's easy to get caught up in the mainstream and wonder of Disney, Sea World and Universal. Florida has plenty of swamp land and a ride on the everglades or a visit to Gatorland is a chance to see some of Florida's first residents before Mickey Mouse moved in!
These adjoining 'grown-up' theme parks are home to some of the biggest thrill rides. You can discover Jaws, Spiderman, The Mummy and even The Simpsons in residence. The nightlife at City Walk is also second to none.
>> Read more about Universal Studios Orlando and Islands of Adventure
Fantastic fun for adults and children. The wildlife at Animal Kingdom is amazing; Hollywood Studios is action-packed and Magic Kingdom is where dreams are made.
>> Read more about The Magic Kingdom, Disney's Animal Kingdom and Disney's Hollywood Studios
A chance to see some of the deadliest crocodiles and gators, including the rare white alligators. Fantastic shows include gator wrestling and gator jumping.
Pictured above is a young boy holding the jaws of a gator shut!
>> Read more about Gatorland
A thrilling theme park surrounded by amazing creatures from the deep. Be sure to catch the popular Shamu (whale) show and Seymour and Clyde's (sea lion and otter) adventure. Sea World's newest addition is a water park located next door!
>> Read more about SeaWorld Orlando and Discovery Cove Orlando
Designer clothes and accessories at rock bottom prices. Get your shopping fix in one of the many outlet malls situated just off I-Drive.
Zara Baker - Zara Baker is Chief Sub Editor and Staff Writer for what's on/lifestyle magazine Latest 7. The magazine has a weekly readership of 100,000 across Sussex. Sunshine State is the resulting article of her visit to Orlando Florida in May 2009, following her honeymoon there in June 2008 (who says you need kids to visit Florida!). Zara currently lives and works in Brighton. Visit: www.thelatest.co.uk/7
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