Orlando – still a family favourite

August 13 2009 , Written by thediversetraveller Published on #Family Travel, #family vacation, #mature travel, #nature, #Orlando, #Sarah Tucker, #shopping, #theme parks, #travel advice, #Travel News, #travel podcast, #travel tips

Thinking of heading to Orlando this year, or have you already got your tickets booked? If so, I've got some great advice for a stress-free holiday from travel writer Sarah Tucker.

Picture: Travel writer Sarah Tucker

1. Keeping the kids occupied (and the adults too!)

Orlando is world famous for its theme parks. You can look forward to a friendly hug from your favourite childhood characters – Mickey Mouse to SpongeBob SquarePants.

On The Simpsons Ride at Universal Studios you can visit “Krustyland” with Marge, Homer, Bart and Lisa or get cheering for Shrek and Fiona on their honeymoon adventure in Shrek 4-D.
At SeaWorld, watch eight-ton killer whales performing a graceful water ballet and have a splashing time on the giant slides and rapids.
Also check out the La Nouba - Cirque du Soleil’s permanent Florida home – for great daily performances by the troupe.

There’s so much to do it won’t just be the kids that are entertained.

2. Grabbing a bargain

With over 12 shopping malls and factory outlet centres in Orlando, fashionistas can find the world’s most sought-after designer brands including Burberry, Chanel, Dior, Giorgio Armani, Louis Vitton and Jimmy Choo.

The Mall at Millenia is definitely at the luxury end of the market, while the more price conscious should head to Prime Outlets International to find some of the best deals on offer.
To keep the kids happy while mum goes shopping, at the Belz Festival Bay Mall on International Drive there’s also a Vans Skatepark and glow-in-the-dark crazy golf.
Alongside major department stores such as Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s, there are numerous trendy, independently-owned boutiques.

In all, Orlando’s shopping choices could fill 900 American football fields – so whatever you're looking for you'll find a bargain.

3. Get back to nature

Orlando has more to offer than theme parks, it boasts fabulous wildlife, beaches and natural parks.

At Discovery Cove you can enjoy a playful swim with Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in a tropical lagoon or go snorkelling with rays and tropical fish.
Or why not pay a visit to the gentle manatees that migrate to the warm waters at Blue Spring State Park each winter.
Search for other native animals such as Florida alligators, on a jet-engine powered airboat at Boggy Creek or help protect baby sea turtles as they make their trek toward the Atlantic Ocean after hatching, during a tour sponsored by the Brevard County Parks Department.

To find out more about family travel to Orlando and how you can enjoy a stress-free family holiday, listen to Sarah's travel podcast: CLICK HERE

P.S. Orlando is not only for families, it's also a great place for those who are young at heart. Click here to read Debbie Woodward's, www.smartseniortravel.com, travel story on the delights Orlando for mature travellers.

For more information about Orlando visit www.orlandoinfo.com

Picture: Stress free holiday in Orlando.