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From whizzing around on loop-de-loop ‘coasters to wandering tree-lined boulevards and taking your golf clubs for a spin, you can do it all in Orlando.
Oh, Orlando! That sun-kissed slice of Florida, USA. If you've never been, buckle up, because you're in for a ride. Sun, surf, and more theme parks than you can shake a Mickey Mouse-shaped ice cream at. If you're ready to pack your bags, stick with us. We'll tickle your holiday tastebuds and have you booking a ticket quicker than a Florida gator can snap its jaws!
First off, here's your bite-size taster of Orlando's top highlights:
Disney World – Because we never really grow up, right
Universal Studios – Get lost in a world of movies and mayhem
Kennedy Space Centre – Unleash your inner astronaut
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – It's magic, I tell ya
SeaWorld Orlando – Dive into a splash of oceanic wonder
International Drive – shopping spree, here we come
Orlando isn't all rides and roller coasters, though. Take a break from the adrenaline rush and soak up some sun on Orlando's sublime beaches. A short trip eastward and you'll be digging your toes into the sand in no time.
Cocoa Beach – Surf's up! Ride the waves or relax under the sun
New Smyrna Beach – Nature, tranquillity, and an endless stretch of sand
Daytona Beach - cars and sand, what a mix!
Canaveral National Seashore - nature at its best
With its warm days all year, a last-minute summer holiday to Orlando may seem like a great idea! However, you’ll get the most reliable sunshine in the winter months, as the city gets frequent rainfall and high humidity between June and September.
Flights from the UK mainland to Orlando take around 9 hours.
Orlando is in the Eastern Standard Time zone, which is 5 hours behind the UK.
Orlando uses the official currency of America which is the US Dollar (USD).
The official language in Orlando is American English, though you will find lots of Spanish speakers too.
Now, let's talk about things to do. Obviously, you can't miss the theme parks - that's a given. But, beyond the beaches and theme parks, Orlando offers a wealth of attractions.
Stroll through the Harry P. Leu Gardens - it’s like stepping into a tropical paradise
Orlando Science Center - a treat for inquisitive minds. S
Orlando Museum of Art - one for the art aficionados
Hot air balloon rides - bring your camera!
Gatorland - say cheese, Mr Gator
Shopping at Orlando outlets - retail therapy at its best
Venturing out of Orlando, you have endless opportunities for day trips. The mystical Everglades National Park, historic St. Augustine, and the beautiful Florida Keys are just a few hours away.
Gras Universal, there's a festival for everyone. Here are some don't-miss events:
EDC Orlando – For the nocturnal ravers
Mardi Gras Universal – Fun, feathers, and fabulousness
Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival – Daring, dramatic, and oh-so-different
Epcot International Food & Wine Festival - an actual culinary delight
Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights - definitely only for the brave, this one
Orlando Fringe Festival - culture vultures unite!
Night owls, prepare for take-off! Orlando's nightlife is as dazzling as a Disney fireworks display. From hip bars to pulsating clubs, the city thrives when the sun goes down. Fancy sipping a cocktail in a chic rooftop bar like The Wellborn? Or perhaps you'd rather tear up the dance floor at EVE Orlando. Love live music? Then you'll want to hotfoot it over to the House of Blues. Trust me, there's no chance of catching forty winks in this city - Orlando nights are all about the razzle-dazzle!
And what's a holiday without feasting, right? Orlando is a melting pot of flavours. Go local with Gator Tail, traditional Cuban sandwiches and Key Lime Pie or delve into Orlando's burgeoning food truck scene for a taste of worldwide cuisine.
Time to talk watering holes and grub spots. For a unique dining experience, head to The Edison with its steampunk décor and delicious bites. Or perhaps you fancy a meal with a view? Then Lake Eola's Relax Grill is the spot for you.
The Edison – Intriguing interiors meet tantalising tastes
Relax Grill at Lake Eola – Dine with a dazzling view
Food Trucks – Global cuisine on wheels, mate
The Rusty Spoon - local ingredients, global flavours
Black Rooster Taqueria - best tacos in town
The Pharmacy - hidden gem, a speakeasy-style bar
Please check with your healthcare provider for all up to date vaccination advice before booking your holiday.
Travellers are often charged a resort fee when staying in Orlando. This varies from hotel to hotel and is usually charged per person or room, per night. This resort tax must be paid by the traveller directly to the hotel.
The UK is on the list of Visa Waiver Countries in the USA, so you do not need a visa to holiday in Orlando as long as you are staying for under 90 days. However, you will need to make an application through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) for each member of your travelling party, which costs $14. They are usually approved in 3 days, but it’s best to apply via the official site as soon as you book your holiday: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta.
We are currently closely following the COVID-19 situation and how it affects travel. You can find out the most up to date information about travel to Orlando on the FCDO website.