ideal itinerary

[emm]

If you were advising a mixed group of eight people (3 adults, 5 children - 18, 16, 16, 10 and 6 )on how best to spend two weeks in Orlando, what would you suggest? Out of the group there are two who do not like theme parks rides, two children who have not heard of Disney World etc and several others who are very keen on theme parks! The group would not all have to stick together all the time, but would like to spend some time together.

[Lyn]

I would advise 1 day at a park & 1 day relaxing, shopping etc. I would not say I liked theme parks (until I had been to Disney) You can really enjoy Disney, Sea World etc. without going on any big rides. There is plenty to see and rides such as Pirates of the Caribbean which are nice and gentle. Epcot which I defy anyone not to enjoy. I always work out an itinery before we go as if you leave it to chance you will find you don't do everything you wanted to. The first time we went in 1993 I thought I would not enjoy it as it is not my normal sort of thing (peace & quiet & countryside) but I love it and this year will be my 9th trip to Florida I just love it.

If I can be of any help just let me know

Lyn

[Fozzie]

I wouldnt worry too much about those that dont like theme park rides, I recently took someone who really dislikes coasters etc.., and went along to Universal studios and Islands of Adventure, on the more gentle rides - they really enjoyed it, the whole experience, atmosphere whatever... But they are now a converted theme park addict, and will be taking their children as soon as they can afford it.

There is so much to do, I would agree that its best to 'pace' out the days so that everyone gets to do something they like - Kennedy Space centre, Gator land, Disney Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Universal, Sea World (a personal favourite) and of course shopping..., some really great bargains.; and not forgetting the water parks - which are fabulous as well[8D]

[Nostromo]

Wherever you go or do not go, make sure that you visit EPCOT, if possible over two days. Epcot is special in that there is nothing else like it; it has a mixture of education and entertainment, sufficient to sate the interests of everyone in your party.

[Newhomebuyer]

I am biased because I love all the theme parks, not for the rides, but for the themeing. I always feel that when I change parks I am going on a whole new holiday adventure. Its like getting lots of different holidays all in one trip. So I would suggest 5 Disney days, 2 Universal Days and 2 Seaworld Days. That leaves 5 rest days which I would use for the pool and shopping. Don't forget that you only need to purchase a one day ticket to do 2 at Seaworld and sometimes US and a 5 day Disney means you can use their transportation sysem for resort visits and launches etc.
I am assuming that this is your first visit. If you go to a park you just split up when you arrive and arrange to get together for meals at certain times. This releases older teens to do their own thing.
I am sure that everyone has their own favourite itinery and of course budget level, so it really is difficult to advise. What I can assure you is that barring accidents or ill health you cannot fail to enjoy the Orlando area whatever you choose to do.
[msnsmile]

[emm]

This is not my first visit, but will be for some of the members of the group. Thanks for all the ideas above, we shall certainly be taking some of them on board. I was also wondering if anyone knew of anything to do in the Orlando area that does not cost anything!! Somewhere perhaps just to go for a stroll (although I appreciate that it will be very hot!) and have a drink etc. I know of the main Disney-type places, but has anyone found anywhere else?

[Newhomebuyer]

We like going to Celebration and strolling round the lake. Younger children can play in the fountain. We also like Historic Kissimmee where the Lake front and park are another great place to stroll and such a contrast in atmosphere to Celebration. There is a great place for younger children to play,and its free.

[Ray&Sarah]

Celebration is very nice for a stroll, just relaxing by the pool is great though after the busier days in the theme parks.

[tuzanne]

I assume that you will have at least 2 cars and several named drivers. It is always useful to put as many people as you can on the hire car driver list.

As far as the ones who do not like theme parks,I went a few yrs ago to Orlando with my parents who were not up to spending hrs at theme parks. They went to a few and enjoyed the experience even though my dad said that he would watch the kids, he did eventually join in and they both loved the shows. On the day we went to a theme park to enjoy the thrill rides the kids loved they went to Cypress Gardens and had a very relaxing time. My mum loves gardens and this suited her well. They also went with us to Splendid China which does not take long to go around and has very good acrobatic shows.

For the people who have never heard of Disney (which I find incredible) the Magic Kingdom is a must. I remember the first time I went there in 1980 and found it such an incredible experience. They will be happy with everything as it is all new.

For the older teenage kids who have been before and like thrill rides I think that Universal is a must. Plus Bush Gardens is popular with my older kids. It does not take as long to get there as some people think.

Finally I hope you have booked a villa with plenty of room and its own pool and spa in a nice resort with other facilities. Those of you who don't like theme parks will want to have a nice place to relax while those who do are out enjoying them.

Have a great holiday

[Newhomebuyer]

Sadly Cypress Gardens has been closed for some time and although they do intend to re-open it , there will be rides rather than peaceful gardens. Splendid China closed within the last year and there are no plans to reopen.