Kids Eat FREE

Are you planning a holiday with the kids in Orlando? Did you know that if your kids are aged between 3 and 11 that they can eat for free in a number of prominent restaurants in Orlando?

That can represent a significant saving over the course of your holiday in Orlando and what's more you qualify for this offer if you book your holidays before the end of April 2010, to travel to Florida at any time during the summer, autumn or even Christmas 2010. Now that has to be a great deal!

To view a list of participating restaurants and the qualifying rules, simply follow this link to our website.

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NEW WEBSITE Launched

At long last we are able to announce that our new look website is live and launched.

We have been working hard to overhaul the navigation and flow of information on the site so that you are more easily able to locate the hotel or villa resort that most appropriately suits your requirements.

Please check it out by going to http://www.floridadiscountholidays.com

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Summer 2010 Florida Deals

Whether its a villa holiday, package deal involving a hotel or a fly drive, we have plenty of options to choose from.

With access to unpublished fares ex-UK to Florida, we are confident that we can beat our competitors for price.

So give us a call on 0870 990 8318 or visit our website to let us know about your specific holiday reuirements in Florida this coming summer.

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Hot Air Balloon Ride in Florida

Why not try a magical experience in Orlando?

Get involved in inflating the balloon and when it is ready, hop on board and spend an hour on board a thrill seekinf ride that rivals anything you might do on the ground.

During your flight the pilot will point out views including : Florida's natural preserves, beautiful resorts, and eye catching attractions.

Flights take place in the Disney area.

At the end of your flight enjoy complimentary champagne or a soft drink to celebrate your wonderful experience and a free breakfast provided in the banquet area at which you will receive a personalised flight certificate.

A truly magical and unforgettable experience.

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Airboat Rides at Boggy Creek

Top up your florida vacation with a world famous Airboat Ride at Boggy Creek West.

Discover territory that remains unaltered by man in the wilderness of the Central Florida Everglades. Experienced Master Captains take you into the breathtaking beauty of natural wonders, including wetlands, cypress trees, and wildlife. Ride with a U.S. Coast Gurad Captain searching for alligators, turtles and birds in their natural environment. The airboats whisk across the waters at speeds of up to 45 mph whilst shooting between walls of tall grass. These rides are safe for adults and children.

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Disney DINING is FREE

September October and November Disney Special Offer.

Book flights with Virgin Atlantic Airlines for 14 nights staying at Disney's Port Orleans Riverside or French Quarter Resorts and get 14 Day Ultimate Tickets and 14 days of Disney Dining FREE.

Prices include transfers on Disneys Magical Express

Family Price from £3499 based on 2 adults and 2 children (2-11). Click here to book.

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Comfort Suites at Comfy Prices

The Comfort Suites Universal South is an Orlando hotel near SeaWorld Orlando. The Comfort Suites® Universal South is conveniently located just minutes from Universal Studios Florida, SeaWorld Orlando, Wet 'n Wild water park and Walt Disney World. Located just two miles from the Orange County Convention Center, this Orlando hotel is also conveniently located near Belz Factory Outlet World shopping center and the famous International Drive.

Special amenities and services include free deluxe continental breakfast, free shuttle service to Universal Studios Florida and SeaWorld Orlando, free weekday newspaper, free coffee and an on-site ATM machine.

The Comfort Suites Universal South provides business travelers with free high-speed Internet access in all rooms and access to copy and fax services. Enjoy the tropically landscaped courtyard complete with outdoor heated pool, hot tub, kiddie pool and poolside bar and grill, serving food and beverages daily. More......

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Easter 2010 Special Offers

Are you planning ahead? Are you thinking about Easter 2010 and that extra special trip to Florida?

We have some very special holidays and prices for you to consider. Whether you want a flight and car, a hotel and transfer included, or a luxury break in a private villa...we have just the price for you. Fly drive prices start from just £499 per person...so please click through for more.

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Villas at Regal Palms

REGAL PALMS is an outstanding resort style community located on the US27 situated between Highway 192 and I4 giving easy access to all Orlando has to offer. The resort features superb onsite facilities which include an amazing Tropical Pool Area complete with ‘lazy river’ and water slide, a Club House, featuring a restaurant, bar and games room, a Gymnasium, Health Spa complex, Tennis Courts and Children’s Pay Area. The resort is also adjacent to the renowned Highlands Reserve 18 hole Golf Course.

Townhouses offering 4 bedroom/3.5 bathroom or 3 bedroom/3 bathroom are available. Both offer luxury accommodation, beautifully furnished and fully equipped. These executive homes provide you with the independence of a home with the advantage of a host of ‘on the door step’ facilities. Not far away from Walt Disney World Resort and within easy reach of bars, restaurants, shoppings malls and supermarkets - Regal Palms Townhomes are situated adjacent to the Highlands Reserve Golf Club.

Boasting a large tropical swimming pavilion with waterslide, waterfall and lazy river, health spa and regular shuttles to the attractions, the 3 and 4 bedroom town homes have fully-equipped kitchens, spacious living and dining areas with patio and a garden tub in the master bedroom. MORE.........

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Indian Creek Villas

Indian Creek is the big new addition to our Orlando villa portfolio. Already an established vacation home resort and an extremely popular resort with British holidaymakers for a number of years.
Located in the much sought after Splendid China area, guests are just short 5 minute drive from shops and restaurants and just over 10 minutes from the Disney theme parks. You won’t find quite the range of on-site amenities of Emerald Island but in most cases the villas here are at least equal in standard, yet much lower in price.
It’s very difficult to come up with a reason not to stay at Indian Creek. If you want a high spec pool home with a choice of size and option to upgrade in a location just minutes from shops and restaurants then this is the place for you.
Expect bright, imaginative décor and furnishings, spacious interiors and well maintained gardens, and, the prices are much lower than normally charged for villas in this area. A very friendly resort, ideal for families. MORE.....

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Indian Pointe Villas

Indian Pointe is an ideal choice for guests looking for a convenient Kissimmee location, a peaceful countryside setting and a great value vacation home. The resort is located on the east side of Disney in central Kissimmee, an extremely relaxed area a good few miles from the noise, traffic, hustle and bustle of Highway 192.

The villas of Indian Pointe are extremely well maintained (similar in standard to the homes at Bass Lake), have always been very popular and quite possibly represent some of the best value rental villas in the whole Orlando area.

Slightly more expensive than our ‘Disney Area’ properties but if you prefer to know exactly where you will be staying then Indian Pointe is an excellent choice. MORE.....

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Villas at Tuscan Ridge

Of all the villa developments we sell (there’s many, many more than listed on this site), do we have a favourite? Yes we do! Tuscan Ridge. It’s not the closest resort to Disney, doesn’t have the on-site amenities of Emerald Island and isn’t built around an award winning golf course like Highlands Reserve…basically we just love the villas.

Tuscan Ridge is a very new development of upmarket, executive villas approximately 15 minutes drive west of the Disney theme parks on US Highway 27. The villas here are very plush and furnishings have been upgraded in every home, in fact these are easily some of the best rental properties we have seen in the Orlando area.

The estate itself is very peaceful and immaculately maintained; the villas are surrounded by rolling orange groves.

If you are happy with a location within 20 minutes of Walt Disney World and if your priority is a guaranteed upmarket, executive villa rather than a resort pool, golf or kid’s playground (there are tennis courts) then Tuscan Ridge is a very good choice.

Many of the homes have additional upgrades such as spa, additional TVs or music systems and a high percentage have a private outlook from the pool over conservation or the orange groves.

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Villas at Southern Dunes

Southern Dunes is one of the most established, popular and well known villa developments in the whole Orlando area. A gated community of high spec homes situated around the prestigious Southern Dunes Golf & Country Club.

Though this is an ideal location for anyone with a passion for golf, it is not simply a golfer's paradise. The resort offers a huge range of high quality vacation properties from 3 Bedrooms through to 7 Bedrooms and a range of on-site amenities to keep every member of the family happy.

As well as the 18 hole Championship golf course with clubhouse, restaurant, bar and shop, guests at Southern Dunes have access to 3 communal swimming pools, a gym, 2 tennis courts, volleyball court, children's playground and extensive walking and jogging trails. Another major attraction is the 24 hour Wallmart Superstore and choice of restaurants and takeaways right outside the resort's entrance...........more

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Disneyland uses Cooking Oil

Disneyland Resort has proved its commitment towards the environment by implementing two innovative moves, which have both resulted in a reduction of carbon dioxide emission in the air. The particular move includes recycling of cooking oil to power the Disneyland Railroad steam trains and the Mark Twain riverboat. The green drive also includes using natural gas to fuel its guest trams.

As the move helps the resort to save 200,000 gallons of petroleum every year and bring down pollution by 80%, the oil used for The Disneyland Railroad and the Mark Twain Riverboat is the same cooking oil used to make the French fries.

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Sunset Ridge Villas in Orlando

Sunset Ridge is a new addition to our Orlando villa portfolio. A brand new gated community of high end vacation homes located close to the junction of US Highway 27 and Interstate 4.

This is an excellent choice for holidaymakers wanting an upmarket villa in a tranquil and relaxing setting. The surrounding area provides a choice of over 20 golf courses and the close proximity of Interstate 4 means that the Disney theme parks are only a 20 minute drive.

Read more........

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Windsor Hills in Kissimmee

Windsor Hills is the newest addition to our growing range of 'resort style' self catering vacation developments. The developers have tried to market Windsor Hills as Orlando's first 5 Star vacation homes resort and in our opinion they have come pretty close. The general look and feel is exceptional, the landscaping is immaculate and the design of the communal areas is very plush. Read more.........

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Best Public Golf Course in Orlando

Orange County National Golf Center and Lodge; two of the finest public golf courses Orlando Florida has to offer.

If you are looking for the best golf in Orlando, FL and want to know who has the finest course layouts, conditions and facilities, look no further than Orange County National Golf Center and Lodge. For the golf fanatic, it has everything - 36 holes per day, first class instruction, first class driving range. Two championship courses, a 9 hole short course, several onsite instruction schools and the largest driving range and practice facility in America are all there.

You do not have to be a great player to enjoy Orange County National; you just have to Love Golf! A Lot of golf!

In fact Orange County National has 45 fabulous holes, on 922 beautiful acres of unspoiled rolling terrain. Pure Golf, the way it was meant to be played, in peace and tranquility with nothing to distract your game except the rugged natural beauty of your surroundings. You will feel a million miles from anywhere; yet will be just a few miles from Disney, the convention center and all the entertainment Orlando has to offer.

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Laugh Away at Sak Comedy Lab

Nestled inside the Centropex II parking garage in downtown Orlando, SAK Comedy Lab offers up some of the funniest improvised comedy in the Central Florida area. Show themes change regularly and a variety of nationally and internationally recognized comedians are often featured creating a unique experience each time you visit.

All shows are family friendly but may border on a PG-13 rating with certain puns or innuendos. Adults, teens and children will find humour in the shows. Audience participation is encouraged and for special occasions (birthday, anniversary) you can even request to be part of the show.

Some snacks are served along with non-alcoholic drinks.

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Complete Family Disney Package

The perfect family holiday for 2 Adults and 2 Children is surely in Orlando visiting Disney attractions. Imagine the fun the kids will have and the memories you will bring away from this dream holiday in florida. It is even more of a must-do event if you know that you can buy this holiday at a knock-down price.

We are offering you a 14 night holiday in Orlando, staying at any All Star Disney Resort and including airport transfers and a 14 Day Ultimate Ticket. What a bargain! Simply click here to book. Prices are from just £799 per adult, £699 per child and are valid for dates between 19th April 2009 and 1st October 2009.

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Disney Hotel and Park Ticket Offer

We have some great special offers for you to consider this month!

From just £329 p.p. for dates between 19th April - 01st October 2009 FOR 14 nights, you can book a 14 night stay at a Disney property and only pay for 10 with Disney's fabulous FREE nights offer.

You will also get a Disney 14 Day Ultimate Ticket for the Price of a 7 Day Premium Ticket.

Places are limited , so book it now!

***Offer valid when a 14 night stay and Disney Park Ticket is booked as one package***

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Silver Spurs Rodeo in Orlando

Grab your cowboy boots and go for some great family fun at the Silver Spurs Rodeo. Events such as bull riding, steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding, bareback riding, and barrel racing, along with crowd-pleasing cowboy clowns, will all take place at every show.
Rodeo fans can enjoy some exciting rides for themselves after the rodeo, at the annual Osceola County Fair, located right next door to the Silver Spurs Rodeo. The fair features exciting amusement rides and games for all ages. Adults and kids will receive a FREE admission to the Osceola County Fair with the purchase of a Silver Spurs Rodeo ticket.

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Airboat Rides in Boggy Creek

Boggy Creek airboat rides are held at Boggy Creek and are for the thrillseeker amonst you.

Once on board its a great thrill ride as you go skidding and sliding forwards, and side ways lifting you out of the water and through the tall swampy grass with the loud noise of the air behind you. You will be given goggles to wear as the boat goes so fast that with the wind in your eyes it would be hard to see anything with out the goggles.

You may see all kinds of fish, birds; snakes even alligators if you are lucky. Mornings are the best time to go to see the local wild life as it is most active at that time of day. The airboat ride takes about 30 mins to 1 hour depending on the guide you get and how busy they are but it is well worth a visit.

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Balloon Rides Over Orlando

A spectacular hot air balloon ride over Orlando is a unique experience, particularly if it is taken at sunrise.

Flights operate 7 days a week, 365 days a year at sunrise, weather permitting. The inflation of the balloon takes around 20 minutes, after which you will be airborne!

The balloon flight time is approx 1 hour and can become your most memorable event during your holiday in Orlando.

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Free Flight Upgrades

We would like to announce an American Airlines upgrade promotion that is available to all customers now.

A free American Airlines' upgrade promotion from business to first class is being offered via UK agents including AV8Tours.(tel:0870 990 8310).

It is valid for customers booking and completing travel to select US destinations from Heathrow on eligible business class fares by April 1.

The upgrade is subject to availability on either the inbound or outboundsector. Additionally, up to 100,000 A Advantage bonus frequent flyer miles can be earned when passengers fly at least two return trips on qualifying fares between Heathrow, Manchester or Dublin and the US by March 31st 2009

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Bowling at Aloma is Best

In a recent poll, Aloma Bowl East was voted the best bowling experience in Orlando. Why? Well that is because it has something for everyone:

Stadium Comfort - This is the largest bowling alley in the area, with 32 lanes, plenty of stadium seating in the stands, a full-service bar and Pizza Hut Express inside.

Gutterball Groovin' - Aloma Bowl East sets its pin-smashing action to plenty of pulsating--read loud--dance hall faves. The computerized scoring and sounds adds to the techno feel.

Easy to Cheat - A real bonus for novice bowlers: Aloma East's lanes feature an automatic gutter bumper. Just push a button and the gutter ball becomes a thing of history.

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Best Time to Try Florida

The best Florida deals of the year are in the winter months. Savvy travelers looking for deals should plan to get away during January,February or March.....let's face it the weather is so poor. Plenty of destinations are offering deeply discounted packages, even luxury hotels, during the relatively slow season.

Robert of AV8Tours says, "If you have always wanted to go to Florida but havent organised it yet then right now is the best time to travel because the travel industry, including hotels and resort properties, is discounting prices to attract travelers and there are some fabulous bargains about."

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Islands of Adventure Go Jurassic

Islands of Adventure at Universal Orlando Resort is home to some of the most thrilling rides and theme parks in Florida. It houses five themed islands...one of which is Jurassic Park.

Your holiday in Florida wouldnt be complete without a visit to this island. You get to see dinosaurs that have come back to life on this trpoical island. Amongst the key attractions here are :-

Jurassic Park River Adventure – Travel through the backwaters of Jurassic Park and see friendly dinosaurs, until you get face-to-face with a gigantic T-Rex.

Pteranodon Flyers – Children get a Pteranodon’s view of Camp Jurassic as they glide gently through the air. Camp Jurassic – A prehistoric playground of discovery, with caverns, amber mines and dinosaur nets to explore.

Jurassic Park Discovery Center – A hands-on interactive area where guests can scan fossilized skeletons, examine dinosaur eggs and view velociraptors hatching.

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Try Typhoon Lagoon

One of the biggest and most thrilling attractions in Orlando is Typhoon Lagoon. The park, which opened on June 1, 1989, is home to the world's largest outdoor wave pool. The theme of the park is the "Disney legend" of a typhoon that wreaked havoc upon a formerly pristine tropical paradise. Ships, fishing gear, and surfboards are strewn about where the storm flung them. The centerpiece of the park is "Miss Tilly," a shrimp boat impaled upon a mountain named "Mount Mayday" that erupts a 50-foot (15 m) geyser of water every half hour, right before the bells of the watch sound on Miss Tilly. At the base of Mount Mayday there is a 2.75 million gallon wave pool. surrounded by a white sand beach, offering park goers the "tsunami" wave experience, which has you holding your sunglasses and bathing suits every 90 seconds. If this isn't your style, two small "tidal" pools, Whitecap Cove and Blustery Bay should be just your speed.

For a day out with a real difference.....try Typoon Lagoon.

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Pirate's Dinner Adventure Orlando

If you are looking for a swashbuckling, adventurous time while visiting the International Drive area of Orlando, then try the Pirate's Dinner Adventure! This show attraction puts you and your family right in the middle of all of the swashbuckling action. Pirate’s Dinner Adventure is acclaimed as “the world’s most unique interactive dinner show.”

Guests are entertained with an astonishing display of special effects wizardry, aerial artistry, swashbuckling swordplay, dynamic duels and daring-do; a classic story of good vs. evil that offers the perfect blend of action, adventure, comedy and romance; the opportunity to interact in the adventure; and a sumptuous dining experience. The show is perfect for children and adults alike, an adventure not to be missed.

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Orlando Fly Drive Deals

Are you searching for the perfect fly-drive deal? Do you want car hire included in the cost of your flight without noticing the price? Based on a party size of four adults, you could fly to Orlando Sanford and pick up a car from just £299 per person.

What's more is the car is fully insured and yours for 14 nights.......A CRACKING DEAL?

So...don't hesitate...book your fly-drive holiday to Orlando here.

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Snow at Blizzard Beach

In Florida there is a place where you can you see snow everywhere, but the only ice is in a diet coke. The 66-acre Blizzard Beach water adventure park located in Florida's Walt Disney World Resort is strictly tropical, but the combination of water park with the atmosphere and excitement of a major ski resort in the midst of a tropical lagoon is a must-do activity during your holiday in florida.

Legend has it that Blizzard Beach was created by a freak winter storm which dropped snow over the western side of the Walt Disney World property and Florida's first snow-ski resort went into immediate production.

The plan was short-lived. As temperatures soared and the ice and snow rapidly began to melt, dismayed ski-resort operators, ready to close, spotted a playful alligator sliding down the "liquid ice" slopes and realized the melting snow created the tallest, fastest and most exhilarating water-filled ski and toboggan runs in the world. As a result, the ski resort/water adventure park was born. It is located just north of Disney's All-Star Resorts.

As you enter the park, you first sight is of "skiers" sliding down the face of the 90-foot snow-capped mountain, Mt. Gushmore. It is home to the newest waterslide, Downhill Double Dipper, the only side-by-side racing water slides that stand 50 feet high and 200 feet long. You will travel up to 25 mph, twisting and turning before shooting out through a curtain of water. Mt. Gushmore also features slalom courses, toboggan and water sled runs and the awesome, 120-foot-high Summit Plummet – the nation's tallest, fastest free-fall speed slide, visible from almost anywhere in the park. You just have to go!

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Warm up in Florida

Are you feeling the cold in blighty? Are you seeing winter as just one more piece of bad news you can well do without? Well...guess what...it is warm in Florida right now. Its a balmy 23 degress celsius today with 75% humidity...surely time to get your shorts or bikini on and dive into the pool.

Do you need a villa or hotel for your trip to the warm state of Florida? We have plenty for you to choose from and all at unbeatable prices...so don't wait, don't hesitate, just fill in our enquiry form or call us on 0870 990 8318.

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Doobie Brothers do CityWalk

Turn on the Night! this New Year's Eve at Universal Orlando Resort. Universal CityWalk's annual New Year's Eve celebration will include non-stop dancing and entertainment throughout the night as the Doobie Brothers headline the evening, rocking in the new year.

By celebrating New Year's Eve 2008 at Universal CityWalk, you can enjoy live music on the main stage as well as inside participating CityWalk venues: Pat O'Brien's, the groove, Bob Marley's, Latin Quarter, CityJazz, Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville and the Red Coconut Club - CityWalk's newest ultra-chic, upscale lounge. An unlimited, gourmet buffet includes food like filet mignon, jumbo shrimp, desserts and is included in the event admission price. At the stroke of midnight a champagne toast is included as fireworks light up the sky.

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Christmas at Magic Kingdom

Visit Magic Kingdom over the festive period and get a full dose of holiday cheer by walking down Main Street, U.S.A., where Disney elves have decked the halls with towering Christmas trees, colorful lights, bows and garlands. Mickey and Minnie Mouse, toy soldiers, and gigantic gingerbread men welcome guests during special daytime runs of "Mickey's Once Upon a Christmastime Parade." The parade is included in regular park admission on selected dates.

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An Arabian Nights Christmas

Imagine 60 magnificent Arabian Nights horses and a cast of more than 40 holiday characters! Then imagine they are joined by spectacular pyrotechnics, snow, special sets and breathtaking holiday costumes to create a winter wonderland fit for a prince and princess. Appearances by toy soldiers, horse-riding elves, gingerbread men and sugarplum fairies add to the holiday cheer at Arabian Nights in Orlando.

Acrobatic elves, dancing reindeer, sugar plum fairies, a disbelieving sultan, a determined princess with her genie, plus more magic than you can shake your wand at. Put it all together and you have a holiday show with all the romance and excitement only Arabian Nights can bring to life.

The show is choreographed to the holiday music of Andy Williams, Hillary Duff, The Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Brenda Lee, Jimmy Buffett, Little Texas, Lone Star, The Philadelphia Symphony Orchestra and many more. So....why not try out Arabian Nights this Christmas.

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SeaWorld at Christmas

The Seafire Inn at SeaWorld celebrates the Christmas season in Hawaiian style with the Makahiki Christmas Luau. You can enjoy the festive celebrations with authentic Christmas music, costumes and dances including a special rendition of "O Holy Night". The fun continues nightly until Jan. 4th.

SeaWorld also offers an array of festive shows and seasonal additions. Guests can join Shamu for the holidays during "Shamu Christmas ... Miracles." This captivating show helps guests celebrate the holiday season as a time filled with hope and peace and just possibly, miracles. The 22-minute production comes to life daily at Shamu Stadium. Guests may also witness a winter wonder as snow flurries descend from up above, and jewels of water and light adorn the night during the "Christmastide" holiday fountain show.....a seasonal spectacular where water seemingly dances to the beat of Christmas music.

"Mistify," a nighttime finale runs from Dec. 26th - 30th, and takes place on SeaWorld's center lake and features larger-than-life marine creatures on 60-foot mist screens, 100-foot fountains, flames on water and dazzling fireworks.

Families will enjoy strolling through the Waterfront's array of gift shops and restaurants all while listening to the joyful tunes of singers, musical quartets and the "Sizzlin' Pianos" show that ignite the spirit of the season. Through Christmas, stores and restaurants will remain open until 7 p.m. during weekdays and 8 p.m. during weekends. The park will remain open until 10 p.m.

This holiday season, guests are invited to jump aboard The Polar Express Experience for a magical trip to the North Pole. SeaWorld's Wild Arctic transforms into a thrilling expedition to the fabled Santa Town. Recreating classic scenes from the movie in a multi-sensory experience, this unique experience immerses guests with lighting, scent, sound and motion to transport them into the spirit of the season.

At the Waterfront, nightly snow flurries descend upon guests. Carolers make a joyful noise while the little ones share their holiday wishes with Father Christmas. Guests in search of that perfect gift can visit any of the area's assortment of gift shops.

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Florida Film Festival in Orlando

The Florida Film Festival is held annually in Orlando and welcomes a wide range of features, shorts, documentaries, film-making forums and events to locations across Orlando and central Florida, including the Enzian Theater. For 2009, the event is to held between 27th Mar - 5th April so why not take a trip to this annual event to coincide with your holiday in Orlando.

Founded in 1992, the Florida Film Festival is produced by a local arts cinema, the Enzian Theater in Maitland, and has attracted sponsors ranging from local media to Universal Studios.

The programming has a fairly wide remit, ranging from new studio and international releases to student films, works-in-progress and the work of local filmmakers.

The Florida Film Festival also features a competition for independent American features, shorts and documentaries (with audience awards plus juried prizes), as well as a number of free seminars which are open to the public and aimed at film students and wannabe film makers.

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Santa is in Orlando

Santa loves the balmy weather so much, you’ll find him all over Orlando this Christmas! On your holiday in Florida you will find Santa is very busy but has found time to enjoy Christmas at Disney, and make appearances at all of the other theme parks as well. He loves shopping for Christmas in Florida, and he can even be found at the Best of Florida Christmas celebration at Gaylord Palms Resort! Santa does get around! Be sure to catch him for a chat, and even a photo, while he’s enjoying his Christmas in Florida. Need help finding him? He is due at all of the following venues.
Gaylord Palms Resort , Mall at Millenia, The Florida Mall, Town of Celebration, Downtown Disney, Festival Bay Mall , Old Town.

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Visit Gatorland in Florida

For nearly 60 years, Gatorland has been creating fond holidays in Florida memories for millions of visitors who have entered through its gaping gator mouth entrance. Families, friends and employees alike have ventured through the glass double doors on their way to a journey through this natural, low-tech adventure.

Located between Orlando and Kissimmee on the South Orange Blossom Trail, Gatorland is one of Central Florida's oldest attractions, and provides a unique and natural alternative to the larger theme parks of today.

Founded by the late Owen Godwin in 1949, and still privately owned by his family today, Gatorland is a 110-acre theme park and wildlife preserve, combining "Old Florida" charm with exciting, new exhibits and entertainment. Known internationally as the "Alligator Capital of the World," Gatorland today provides affordably priced family-fun with thousands of alligators and crocodiles, a breeding marsh with boardwalk and observation tower, one-of-a-kind reptilian shows, aviary, petting zoo, swamp walk, educational programs and much, much more.

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Free Things To Do In Orlando

Orlando is the place to be on holiday. With so much to do, it is sometimes refreshing to find that there are some free activities for you to enjoy. Here is our list of the top 5 free activities to try in Orlando.

1. Disney Downtown Area: Located between Typhoon Lagoon and Epcot Center. There are shops and restaurants dedicated to the legendary characters, and for the serious shopper, head for the largest Disney character store in the world.

2. Cape Canaveral: Space Coast is a 45-minute drive east of Orlando, and the crown jewel of the coast is Kennedy Space Center. The visitor center is excellent - but has an entrance fee. If you're jus tinterested in seeing the shuttle launch, you can check the schedule at http://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/ ; on a clear day it can be seen from almost anywhere in the area.

3. Cocoa Beach: You simply have to visit the ocean, and especially Cocoa Beach. Just 1 hour's drive from Orlando, it makes a great day out if you also take in Cape Canaveral.

4. Winter Park Classic Movies: Classic movies are shown on the second Thursday of each month . Sit back and enjoy.

5. Eola Park: Orlando hosts a 43-acre green space around Lake Eola. There is a one-mile walking trail around the lake, concerts in the amphitheatre and boats to rent.

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Day Out at the Central Florida Zoo

A day out at the enchanting, tropical world of the Central Florida Zoo is a relaxing, entertaining and educational experience for the entire family. Discover a world of animals from around the world within this intimate park nestled in the heart of Florida.

Stroll along shaded, winding boardwalks and paths as you see towering elephants, appreciate the beauty of the hyacinth macaw and listen to the song of the kookaburra. Or dare to meet some of the world’s most venomous reptiles and non-venomous snakes, lizards and frogs in the Herpetarium.

See animals like the Puerto Rican Coqui, endangered Amur leopards, venomous king cobra and playful spider monkeys. The recently transformed Butterfly Sensory Garden incorporates touch, look, listen and smell stations, contrasting human and insect senses.

The Central Florida Zoological Park is dedicated to preserving the beauty and wonder of animals and their habitats. It is committed to sharing knowledge, engaging visitors, and celebrating our natural world.

First established as the Sanford Zoo in 1923 with a collection of donated animals held by the Sanford Fire Department. the zoo was relocated in 1941 to new facilities in downtown Sanford, on the site of the present City Hall. The Zoo of today, opened its doors at its present site on July 4, 1975 and it continues to grow as Seminole County's premier recreational and educational attraction. It is a must-do activity for any holiday in florida.

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Swim with Manatees

Do you fancy meeting a Manatee up close during your holiday in Florida? Nose to nose or at a distance, the chance to meet these fascinating and gentle marine mammals is a must-do excursion.

Manatees favour the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico and cluster in and around Crystal River and Homosassa, especially during the cooler winter months. These relatively warmer waters, with an average temperature of 72°F from the springs, attract these gentle animals. During the coldest times, up to 400 can be found herding in the waters of Citrus County. An aerial survey conducted by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on April 30, 2008 showed that there are 139 manatees enjoying the waters of Citrus County.

The Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge was established to provide critical habitat for the endangered manatees and is now home to more than 25% of the nation’s population.
Snorkeling is an excellent way to observe manatees at close range. These excursions should be made with the assistance of a guide or a tour company which can supply everything you’ll need, including mask, snorkel and wet suit.

Another great way to meet a manatee is to visit the Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park. The park serves as a rehabilitation center and refuge for injured and orphaned endangered West Indian manatees. A unique feature of the park is the famous "fishbowl" where visitors can view the manatees in the spring from an underwater observatory - staying dry the entire time!

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Simpsons Ride at Universal Studios

The Simpsons are visiting Krustyland, the low-budget theme park created by famed TVpersonality and shameless product huckster Krusty the Clown! You are there right alongside Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie as you enter through the carnival-like midway.

Your holiday in Orlando wont be complete without a visit....once you board your vehicle you're in for one surprise after another as you embark on a wild, over-the-top ride through the park. flying, floating, and more or less crashing your way through Krustyland's kiddie attractions, stunt shows, and thrill rides.

The Simpsons Ride is a simulator ride featured at the Universal Studios Florida and Universal Studios Hollywood theme parks. The ride is based on the long running TV cartoon series.....The Simpsons. It was first announced in 2007 and replaced the Back to the Future: The Ride at both locations.

The ride at Universal Studios Florida soft opened on April 23, 2008, and the official ceremonies took place on May 15. The ride at Universal Studios Hollywood opened on May 19, 2008. The Simpsons Ride was collaborated on by the producers of The Simpsons, and uses computer generated 3D animation, which was provided by Blur Studio and Reel FX. 2D animation was provided by Film Roman.

The ride uses state of the art technology, including a new projection system and new hydraulics.The ride itself is six minutes long, but original footage for the ride can be seen in the queue, and there is also a pre-show video. In the ride, patrons are introduced to a cartoon theme park called Krustyland built by Krusty the Clown. Sideshow Bob, however, is loose from prison to get revenge on Krusty and the Simpson family. At least 24 regular characters from the series make an appearance, allv oiced by their original actors. Along with the attraction is a gift shop modeled after the Kwik-E-Mart, which opened in late 2007.

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Delta and Northwest Airlines Merge

The Northwest Airlines name will go following completion of its merger with Delta Air Lines. The combined carrier will carry the Delta name and be based at its headquarters in Atlanta.

The merged airline will serve more than 375 cites worldwide - more than any other airline - with approximately 75,000 employees handling more than 170 million passengers a year.

The merger will occur through an integration process over the next 12-24 months after being cleared by the US Department of Justice. Passengers have been advised to continue to check-in and do business directly with the airline operating their flight just as they did before the merger.

As a combined company, Delta will maintain all its hubs at Atlanta, Cincinnati, Detroit, Memphis, Minneapolis/St. Paul, New York-JFK, Salt Lake City, and Tokyo-Narita - each of which will benefit from improved global connectivity.

The deal is expected to generate $2 billion or more in annual revenue and cost savings from more effective aircraft utilisation, a more comprehensive and diversified route system, and cost cuts from reduced overhead and improved operational efficiency.

The company expects to incur one-time cash costs not exceeding $600 million to integrate the two airlines.

"It has a best-in-class cost structure and strong liquidity balance that better positions the company to adapt to the weakening global economy," a statement said.

CEO Richard Anderson said: "Delta is combining the best of two industry leaders to create a premier global airline that will be unmatched in the scope and level of service we offer our customers.

"As we have been proving, this is a different type of merger for the industry thanks to the complementary nature of the two airlines and the calibre of the people who will make this the most successful merger in airline history.

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Toddler Fun in Orlando

Disney has so many rides and attractions that even your toddlers can enjoy. So, why not take your little ones on your holidays to Orlando. Here is a sample of where to take them:-

Magic Kingdom: Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin (even if it has a long line get in it--the ride never stops so the line moves quickly), Mickey's Toontown Fair, Dumbo (go to this one as soon as the park opens--it is very popular and late in the afternoon the line is a mile long and moves slowly), Tea Cups (you can make it spin as fast as you want or just let is slowly coast along for the little ones), Adventures of Pooh (ride in cute little honey pots), Peter Pan's Flight (if you little one is really scared of the dark or going up a little high you may not want to do this one but if not it is really cute), Small World, Mickey's Philharmagic (best 3-D ever), Alladin's Flying Carpet and Jungle Cruise. Don't miss Spectromagic Parade and Wishes Fireworks. Do not do Snow Whites Scary Adventure unless you have a true brave one--it is dark and scary.

Animal Kingdom: Do the Safari first thing in the morning to see the most animals, walk through the Trail and the Trek, do not miss the Lion King Show and Flights of Wonder (unless your little one is really scared of birds because they fly right over your heads--most kids love it though). Go down to Camp Minnie Mickey. If they don't mind getting wet Kali River rapids is fun too. Take the train down to Rafiki's Planet Watch to a little petting zoo. Let them dig and play at the Boneyard and the Tricertop Spin is like a Dumbo ride but with flying dinosaurs. Note: even if your little one thinks they like Dinosaurs and want to ride the ride--even if they make height requirement be aware that it IS SCARY!

MGM: Fun character meet and greets with the Power Rangers, Little Mermaid Show is good (has one sort of scary part with Ursula), Playhouse Disney Live On-Stage, Backlot Tour, Beauty and the Beast Show, Lights Motors Action Show (a little loud but the kids seem to love it anyway because it is exciting), and they LOVE to play in the Honey I Shrunk the Kids Playground!!! Fantasmic is a great show but may scare some little ones--would recommend sitting near the back so you could leave if you had to. The Stars and Motor Cars parade is great because all of the characters ride in it and many even walk and come right up to the kids.

Epcot: Living Seas, Turtle Talk with Cruch is FUNNY, Living with the Land, Journey Into Immagination with Figment , Honey I Shrunk the Audience is SCARY in parts so be aware of this and don't let the name fool you, Test Track for the braver ones, go to all of the Kidcot Stops for crafts, just many many things to see (try to catch some of the street performers).

Typhoon Lagoon is the best water park for little ones.

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Golfing in Florida

There are 1,067 golf facilities in Florida. Since many facilities have more than one golf course, it turns out that this equates to an astonishing 1,216 courses. What does all this mean? It means that, if you’re a golfer, Florida is the place. No other state in the U.S.A. comes close to the abundance of fine layouts found here.

But Florida isn’t just about the world-class tour resorts seen on television. It has plenty of friendly municipal courses and historic links.

You may even be admitted to some of Florida’s private clubs if you play with a member or if you ask your club golf pro to call ahead to arrange a game. Or, you may want to take advantage of golf privilege cards, which offer special pricing on many courses and often include access to private clubs.

If you prefer to travel light, or decide to play a few rounds of golf on a whim, you’ll be happy to know that most facilities rent excellent, pro-line quality golf clubs. You may even be able to closely match the set you left at home.

Florida has three levels of courses: tough, legendary PGA Tour calibre tracks; challenging courses; and layouts so easy it’s like shooting fish in a barrel. The vast majority are in the “challenging” category, but you’ll need to select the one that best fits your game.

If you do go for the famous tracks, you should play from the set of tees that will allow you to walk away with fond memories of your round, not frustration from a day of torture. The special features that make celebrated courses famous are still in front of you and awaiting your attempt to defy them. If you play from the middle tees, you have a better chance to see what a Tour player is really up against in the heat of a tournament. You’ll play faster, have a more enjoyable experience and not hold up all the other golfers on the course who are attempting to create their own lifelong reminiscences.

Of course, if you are a scratch player and you want the full experience of some of the best and most difficult courses in the world, Florida’s got them here for you. Go to the back tees and fire away. Just pick the right track, and enjoy your day in the Florida sun.

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British Airways Cuts Fuel Surcharges

British Airways has followed Virgin Atlantic in cutting its fuel surcharges as airline passengers finally benefit from the fall in the cost of oil. The reduction will bring down the cost of a return trip to long-distance destinations such as Los Angeles by up to £26 for economy passengers, bringing the levy down to £192. Shorter trips such as New York will cost £20 less, with the surcharge falling to £136.

These cuts, which are the same as those announced by Virgin, will mean that passengers in the slightly more spacious World Traveller Plus cabin will get more modest reductions. The £10 cut on trips to destinations like New York, will bring the fuel surcharge down to £166 for return trips. While the levy on journeys over nine hours will be £229, £13 less than before.

However the surcharges levied on business and first class passengers will be unchanged as will those on anyone travelling on shorter flights.

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Virgin Atlantic Cuts Fuel Surcharges

British airline Virgin Atlantic said it has cut its passenger fuel surcharges following the drop in oil prices.

From 2300 GMT on Wednesday 15th October, Virgin Atlantic will reduce the charge by up to 13 pounds per passenger, depending on the destination and class of cabin, the airline announced.

Passengers travelling on longer flights in economy class will benefit from the full 13-pound cut, taking the charge to 96 pounds.

Passengers travelling in premium economy class will pay five pounds less on shorter flights and 6.50 pounds less on longer flights.

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Eating Out in Orlando

Our very own Rob likes his food. On a recent trip to Orlando he tried out the following three restaurants and recommends you do the same.

Pizzeria del Dio - This restaurant opened in Feb 2008 greet old at a new downtown Orlando location. It features the same specialty foods and pizza that thousands of customers have grown to crave along with the casual atmosphere and friendly service they've always been known for. Located at 3210 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32803. the restaurant is in the Colonial Landing Plaza (old Herndon Plaza), which includes Bed Bath & Beyond,PetSmart and Sports Authority. It is opposite Orlando's Fashion SquareMall.

Rob says, "I had the lasagna and it was the best I have had in years. I'll come here again on my next trip over Great food, lots of parking, prompt service".

Timpano Italian Chophouse - Reminiscent of the classic restaurants and clubs of Chicago and New York, Timpano Italian Chophouse revives the big city dining experience with big flavor steaks, chops and pasta matched by full-bodied red wines and sophisticated setting while intimate torch songs and ballads echo through the lounge and dining room. Upscale beef and snazzy pasta and fish: osso buco, fusilli with wild mushrooms and Gorgonzola, Tuscan seafood stew. Pay a la carte for soups, salads and sides like mashed potatoes or spinach. The seared sirloin is a fine choice, and spring a buck for the finish: al forno (garlic and Parmesan) or al balsamico (honey and vinegar). For a tasty vegetable ration, try the minestrone. Sop up the garlic-tomato broth(with the grilled grouper) with Timpano's excellent foccacia, one of the housebreads.

Rob says, "The 8oz filet was very good. The grilled vegetables were good, especially the tomatoes and peppers. The hot rolls were excellent. Complimentary valet parking was nice. The service was good, lots of trips for water, and friendly."

Samba Room - This restaurant offers all the jet-set glamour and romance of the Rio Havana holiday without the State Department hassles. Palm trees, sheer curtains, amber lighting, cool cocktails and intoxicating Latin rhythms provide a recipe for escape. The Latin cuisine includes dishes like Chilean seabass, redsnapper, steaks, mashed poatotes, salads and more. The dinner menu ranges from appetizers such as plantain chips or mango barbecued ribs to Cuban sandwiches to "large plates" of paella or sugar cane beef tenderloin with chipotle mashed potatoes. Order the grilled mussels to start, which you dip in coconut milk laced with sour orange. Don't let the "wine-habanero"syrup scare you away from the cachaca chicken, a delicious quarter of smoked chicken atop a colorful, fruity coconut rice.

Although Cuban bread is somewhat bland, the shredded beef sandwich packs plenty of flavour. Finish with the divine coconut creme brulee.

Rob says, "The food is very good with alot of flavor. Service was excellent. It isn't a place for intimate dining because there is alot going on but the food is reasonably priced for the quality."

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50 Fun Things To Do On I-Drive

Do you need some ideas? Do you need to take in a list of things to do when planning your trip to Orlando? Would you be able to impress your fellow travellers with a list of exciting, fun-filled things to do whilst on holiday? Well...look no further. Take a look at our list of 50 (yes...fifty) fun things to do on I-Drive.

• Have your picture taken in front of a 1934 replica Ford Woody at Ron Jon's Surf Park at Festival Bay Mall.


• Slide through a pool of Dolphins or just kick back on the 80,000 square foot beach at Aquatica Water Park.


• Take a ride from the air in an Air Florida Helicopter Charters and see world famous attractions.


• Learn to Belly Dance or just fill your belly with authentic Greek food at Taverna Opa.


• Play golf on the championship course at Shingle Creek.


• Experience an explosion of dynamic effects on the all new BLACK HOLE; The Next Generation at Wet 'n Wild.


• Visit six of the world's greatest theme parks SeaWorld, Discovery Cove, Wet 'n Wild, Aquatica SeaWorld's Waterpark, Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure!


• Satisfy your inner pirate at the giant galleon at Pirate's Dinner Adventure.


• Eat a burger and fries in the world's largest McDonald's Play Place!


• Unwind and relax at Body & Sol Spa at Rosen Centre.


• Sing pop classics at Howl at the Moon.


• Enjoy dinner while listing to the Great Blues of yesterday and today at B B Kings.


• Take the kids for some fun at Johnny Rockets at Pointe Orlando.
  Watch live European sports via satellite at a British pub, Cricketers Arms Pub, at Festival Bay Mall.


• Dance to a live band at the Rosen Plaza Hotel.


• Be serenaded by singing waiters at Bergamo's Italian Restaurant at Festival Bay Mall.


• Buy art off the walls and meet the artist at Café TuTu Tango.


• Escape the ordinary at Ripley's Believe it or Not with its Orlando Odditorium filled with the unusual.


• Let your imagination run wild at WonderWorks, Orlando's only upside-down building!


• Land the space shuttle. Design a roller coaster. Fly a fighter jet.


• Dine at the world's largest Hard Rock Cafe at Universal CityWalk.


• Enjoy some pizza while the kids bounce out their energy at Monkey Joe's.


• Go for a swim or workout at the Central Florida YMCA Aquatic Center.


• Check out the 32-lane bowling alley right in the heart of the I-Drive area, the World Bowling Center. The wacky decor features murals of astronauts bowling, among other whimsical touches.


• Enjoy nonstop recreation at Vans Skate Park at Festival Bay Mall, Orlando's premier skateboard park.


• Take a spin on Magical Midway's extreme go-cart track with corkscrew turns and daring elevations.


• Sip some wine at The Grape Wine Bar & Bistro at Pointe Orlando.


• Golf under a waterfall at Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf.


• Skydive in a wind tunnel at Sky Venture Orlando Indoor Skydiving.


• Swim with dolphins in the morning at Discovery Cove and encounter JAWS in the afternoon at Universal Orlando.


• Get married at the Royal Wedding Chapel!


• Putt a hole-in-one at Hawaiian Rumble Adventure Golf, Congo River Golf, Tiki Island Golf or Gator Golf.


• Solve a murder mystery at Sleuths Mystery Dinner Theater.


• Be sure to wear white and watch yourself shine at Putting Edge Glow-In-The-Dark Mini Golf at Festival Bay Mall.


• For a fun way to get around International Drive, leave the driving to someone else and take the I-Ride Trolley!


• Shop for bargains at designer outlets ( See our shopping in Orlando blog post)


• Sleep in a castle at Doubletree Castle Hotel.


• Be a guest duckmaster at The Peabody Orlando.


• Have a carhop deliver to your car at Sonic, America's Drive In!


• Be a marine life trainer at SeaWorld Orlando.


• See how I-Drive shines at night!


• Unwind in an Irish owned & operated pub, The Lucky Leprechaun.


• Shop till you drop at over 485 designer, brand name and outlet stores!


• Catch a movie at Regal Pointe Orlando 20+ IMAX.


• Taste international flare food on I-Drive with over 150 restaurants.


• Have an elegant dinner in the highly acclaimed Capital Grille at Pointe Orlando.


• Dine on authentic Italian fare at Maggiano's Little Italy at Pointe Orlando.


• Check out the nation's second largest convention center, Orange County Convention Center.

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Shopping in Orlando

Orlando is home to some of the finest shopping venues in Florida. Here is a selection of our top picks:-

1. The Mall at Millenia, 2. The Florida Mall, 3. Festival Bay Mall on I-Drive, 4. Orlando Premium Outlets, 5. Pointe Orlando on I-Drive, 6. Orlando Fashion Square Mall.

There are two major malls close to the tourist areas. The Mall at Millenia is an upmarket mall, with Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdales, Cartier, and restaurants such as PF Changs and the Cheesecake Factory. Mall at Millenia is located at the Conroy Road exit of I-4. Florida Mall is one of the largest malls in Florida, anchored by Macys, Dillards, JC Penney, Lord & Taylor, with a large selection of specialty stores.

Florida Mall is a vast complex and is located at the intersection of Sand Lake Road and the Orange Blossom Trail, halfway between the Orlando International Airport and International Drive.

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