Right deep breath and off we go.....
22/03/03
Fly American Airlines - Heathrow to Miami and on to Orlando, chose this route coz it was cheap and avoided the kids on the direct Orlando flights! Flight to Miami was fine if a little long (9.5 hours) food was usual fare (not bad) and the films OK. Miami airport was not particularly user friendly, got to the gate for the connecting flight just in time!! AA advertising about extra legroom in economy is very true, couldn't get a bulkhead seat on the MIA-MCO trip but was not problem, even for me at 6'4'. Arrived at MCO having cleared customs/immigration etc. at MIA so didn't have that hassle. Would not hesitate to fly AA again, excellent all round!! Got to the Alamo car rental desk (now on airport) got car (7 seater) sorted v.quickly no probs (had Alamo Gold option so no hard sell on extra insurance). Found one we liked in the parking lot (kiddie in sweet shop time - which one to pick so many choices) Ended up with Dodge Grand Caravan (identical to Chrysler one we had last time) Quick tip - if there are 7 PEOPLE to seat in a 7 seat people carrier you will NEVER fit everyones luggage in (it was a squeeze with 5 peoples kit!!). Helen (my wife) drove to the villa in Esprit using the directions given by the owner which were spot on!! (1st of many thanks Angela!!). The villa is wonderful (everyone in party v.happy!!) - 2nd thank you Angela. Sun shining, this is just the ticket..
So far so good........got 5 people plus kit across the Atlantic as scheduled, into correct car and then on to the villa without incident or problem - well one problem by now we are all completely knackered. Quick dip in pool (quite chilly - opted for pool heat when we got there - even us hardy Brits found it a little TOO bracing in April!!)
I started my US driving (well after quick 'practice spin' around the Esprit estate with a somewhat nervous wife in the passenger seat!!) by taking everyone to the Ponderosa on the 192 (Ponderosa simple no hassle 'Ronseal' food - does exctly what it says on the tin!!) Drove home - don't think any of the party were too scared despite the odd incident!! (Please note that the 'ramp' speed limits are there for a reason - the one joining H27 from the 192 heading south is worthy of note - tight is not the word!! - Angela you might want to warn 1st timers to your villa about that one!! -
Hear ends part one - the next instalment titled 'The Parks' to come soon........
HOPE I'M NOT BORING YOU ALREADY!!
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