Florida

Holidays by Destination North America USA Florida Choosing Accommodation 

In Orlando there is the choice is between Disney and not Disney, with a mid category of seven “guest” hotels on Disney property, not run by the company. These last are on the doorstep of Downtown Disney, part of that safer, controlled environment.

The Disney hotels are all densely themed and among the most expensive in the area at around £100 per room per night up to £300, though the company has introduced an All Stars Movies/Sports/Music brand at nearer £50. This is described as still impressively themed, with a children's play area and big pool, and though simple, very clean. Staying at a Disney property qualifies for extras like free transport, themed breakfasts and early park entry. That said, things like the character breakfasts can be booked separately.

Alternatives are the more downmarket International Drive, though there is lots going on there, or rather smarter Lake Buena Vista, nearer Disney. Kissimee is the real budget area. Due in 1999 is a Universal Studios village on the Disney pattern with hotels and areas in different styles.
Throughout the state most hotels offer free child accommodation sharing with parents, some up to the age of 18. Some hotels offer kids programmes but we have not located any offered under the age of 3 or 4 except Powder Byrne, (see front page). Larger hotels will have a child's pool. At some, including the Disney properties, you can arrange babysitting. There may also be further savings. At the Disney Swan and Dolphin properties for example, kids eat free to 8 with a paying adult.

If you want to travel cheaply you could do so easily independently, especially off season. There are plenty of motels on main roads around cities, at beaches and country road junctions. Independents are usually better for the price than the budget chains. Efficiencies are motel rooms with cooking facilities, usually $10-15 above usual rate. Orlando has a Central Reservation Service + 1 407 740 6442, toll-free in Orlando 1-800 548 3311.

If you want to stay in the better properties booking ahead is more important and a package would probably be better value. However, as you may well spend all day out in Orlando, it might be better to economise on accommodation there, and spend more at the beach.

An alternative is self-catering, generally in villas in purpose-built developments. They are high standard, usually with private pool, but generally bland. More interesting properties, particularly on the coast, are notably more expensive.

Though useful with families, villas make car rental vital and at least one operator reports repeat visitors are preferring hotels for the extra facilities offered.

A useful halfway house is a suite hotel with more space in the rooms, plus the facilities.

Prices quoted unless otherwise indicated are for a week in Orlando and week on the beach for two adults and two under 12s in May with car for the second week. In view of Florida's cheap and cheerful reputation we made a point of asking about slightly better options.