Flying to Florida with US Airways – Part 8

We are on our way to Fort Lauderdale, on the final leg of our journey with US Airways, from Gatwick to Florida, via Charlotte. Having flown across the Atlantic on an Airbus with US Airways we have landed safely, ready to pick up our domestic flight to Orlando International Airport.

We ha...

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Choosing a villa - Hints

Thinking of traveling to the sunshine state and meeting that very famous mouse? Wow! what a fantastic holiday you will have, but lots of planning is needed to make sure you enjoy your trip.

What ever ages you are traveling with, be it with a group of friends or a family, have you conside...

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Want to buy a villa? part 1

Owning a holiday villa in Florida can be fraught with difficulties and unexpected bills but it can also be the most rewarding thing you will ever do. If you are considering buying, then now is the ideal time whilst prices are still relatively low. If you are buying just to enjoy yourself, then go fo...

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Why buy a villa? part 2

Part 2

One of the most essential expenses is the maintenance. Pool pumps wear out, washing machines, tumble dryers, fridges and dishwasher will all eventually breakdown and need replacing, after all, they take far more wear and tear than your own at home. The lawns have to be mown every wee...

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Why buy a villa? part 3 - The Good News

SO WHY ON EARTH WOULD YOU WANT TO BUY A VILLA IN FLORIDA?

Well now, at last, the good news. The thrill of getting a booking confirmed with a deposit is wonderful and gives you encouragement to carry on. Receiving thank you letters and letters of praise for ones villa is so rewarding it m...

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Eating at Your Villa

If you decide to stay at a villa in Orlando you will be amazed at the advantages it has over staying in a hotel no matter how nice the latter is.

One of the advantages is being able to eat and/or cook whatever you want whenever you want and this we really enjoy.

Most villa ki...

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The Advantages of Staying in a Villa

This is a question I am asked many times by potential guests. The first time we went to Florida we stayed in a hotel and although we thoroughly enjoyed it at the end of holiday we were beginning to feel a bit cramped up. During the next few years we always rented villas until finally 11 years ago we...

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Beyond the Beach at Fort Lauderdale

You can travel to Key West by Road, Sea or Air and when you get there you will find it a city of fascinating contrasts. In fact after a few days there you may find yourself wanting to stay far away from the hassles of everyday life forever!

With its beautiful blue skies, the island is, a...

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Choosing Your location

To get the best out of your holiday you need to choose the right location for your particular needs.

You may have noticed that all the villas seem to be no more than 10 to 15 minutes away from Disney.
Well the truth is, they are. That is because there are now so many different entrance...

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The Marine Discovery Center

The Marine Discovery Centre is located at New Smyrna Beach and is dedicated to the presevation and restoration of The Indian River Lagon Estuary. This would take you something over an hour from your resorts area villa and makes a welcome contrast to the hustle and bustle of the parks. .

...

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Why do we stay in a villa?

When we first visited Florida we booked a hotel for our stay mainly because we thought that was what you had to do. We had a fantastic holiday in a lovely hotel. The room was a reasonable size and there were two double beds one for hubby and me and one for the 2 kids to share. We had a TV, our own b...

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Rides for small boys - part 2

The Liberty Square Steam Ship is an old fashioned paddle steamer and all the fixtures and fitting are faithfully reproduced for every one to explore and look at. From the announcement of “All aboard” to the sound of the crew making ready to cast away and to the shrill whistle of the ships warning of...

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American Police Hall and FIT

American Police Hall of Fame and Museum is situated in Titusville on Florida' s Atlantic coast. If you have been to see a rocket launch you may well have been to Titusville since there is an ideal viewing site on Titusville Beach.

Here you will see 7000 names carved in to marble; this is...

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Givenchy at Epcot

In September this year Givenchy opened its only stand-alone retail location in the United States at the French Pavilion at Epcot. This is situated in what was once the “library” section of the pavilion (here there is a “Beauty and the Beast” stained-glass window backdrop) and the shop offers the ent...

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Easy Tips for Visiting the Parks

Every time we visit the Parks I seem to think of a tip I must remember for our next visit to Orlando.

If you going to visit a Park more than once in a year investigate buying an Annual Pass. I am not sure if non residents can do this for the Disney/Universal Parks but they can definitely do ...

Viewed 0 times

Fishing on the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys is a fisherman’s paradise with many types of fishing available. Apparently more saltwater world records have been established in the Florida Keys than any other angling destination in the world

If you are staying in Orlando and want to visit the Keys it might be wise to have...

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Last day of the Holiday

Many visitors from the United Kingdom to Orlando have an early/late evening flight home. As we often travel with Virgin Atlantic we usually go to Downtown Disney and at the Virgin check in we check in our baggage and receive our boarding cards. The cost for this at time of writing this article is $1...

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Sunken Gardens - St Petersburg

If you fancy a day away from the Orlando area why not go to St Petersburg on the Gulf Coast and whilst you are there visit their Sunken Gardens.

St Petersburg is about an hour and a halves drive from Orlando if you do not wish to go there and back in a day there are many reasonably priced mo...

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Things to do at Clearwater

If you visit Clearwater on the Gulf Coast you will be amazed at the amount of things to do. Clearwater is about an hour and a halves drive from Orlando along the I4. When you initially get there you may want to go to the Visitor Information Center which is situated at 333 C, South Gulfview Blvd. on ...

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The Pinellas Trail

If you have ever been in the Gulf Coast area surrounding Treasure Island, Clearwater or St Petersburg you will have seen signs highlighting the Pinellas Trail

The Pinellas Trail was originally thought of in the 1980s by a man, whose son was killed while riding his bike, in association with th...

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Beyond the Beach at Fort Lauderdale

One of our favourite places on Florida’s east coast, otherwise known as the Space Coast is Fort Lauderdale. We either visit here en route to the Florida Keys or go over for a couple of days and spend a night in a relatively inexpensive motel. For families of two adults and 2 small children you need ...

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Miami Bus Tour

Whenever wherever we are on holiday our favourite way of initially exploring any city is to do the bus tour to see what the city has to offer. We then either hop on hop off the bus tour to visit some of the places on the initial tour or plan the remainder of our stay in the city by deciding the plac...

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Beaches and Cream

When our friends first mentioned Beaches and Cream and how very popular it was I had no idea what they were talking about. They explained it was a very small restaurant with a limited food menu but specialising in desserts and malts. I am still not sure what the latter is but they seem very like mil...

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St Armands Circle Sarasota

If you have never been to this unique place called St Armands Circle I strongly recommend that you do.

To get there from the I-75 you take Sarasota (exit 39), then West on State Road 780 to St. Armands Key. Take the Ringling Causeway over Sarasota Bay to St. Armands Circle. From US 41 you go...

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How to get to Key West

The Florida Keys are a one hundred and twenty mile island chain and is linked to mainland Florida by U. S. 1, the Overseas Highway. I estimate the driving time from Miami to US1 is approx one hour. Some people only want to go to the Upper Keys so this is not too long a journey.

If you are tr...

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Our First Day in Orlando

After months of anticipation and planning we are finally waking up for our first day at our villa. I am never sure whether it is jet lag or sheer excitement but it is unusual for any of the family to sleep after 6. 00am.

If fact one year when my Mother and I both woke at 4. 00am we quickly g...

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Things to Do in St Petersburg

If you ever get the opportunity do try to visit the town of St. Petersburg which is on the opposite coast to St Petersburg beach. Here you will find a variety of historic buildings, museums, and other sightseeing opportunities.

A good way to start your visit to St Petersburg is to hop onto o...

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Tampa

As we travel to the Gulf Coast I never fail to marvel at Tampa’s large buildings that look as though they are made of cardboard that you can see from the Motorway.

Tampa is situated on Florida' s west coast along the Gulf of Mexico. If you visit here you can enjoy the pleasant ocean breezes ...

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Fort Myers

Like much of Florida Fort Myers was only developed a couple of hundred years ago in the mid 1800s. It was originally a military installation involved in the Civil War. Fort Myers was really made famous by the inventor Thomas Edison who built his winter home and laboratory, Seminole Lodge in an area ...

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A Day in Miami

You may have flown into Miami or are en route to other parts of Florida and have a day to stay in Miami and enjoy it.

If you want to just relax and enjoy the sun there are several beaches where you can do this.

Virginia Key Beach is located right off the Rickenbacker Causeway (on bot...

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Sanibel and Captiva Islands Beaches

If you want a really relaxing time on the beach and a few days away form Orlando head to Sanibel and Captive Islands. Here you can enjoy 5 miles of unspoiled beaches, 22 miles of bike paths, 50 types of fish, 230 types of birds and over 200 types of shells. You may have heard of the Sanibel Stoop th...

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Cocoa Beach

It you fancy a day, or even a weekend, at the beach and do not want to drive too far head for Cocoa Beach. This beach is only an hours drive from Orlando on the east coast which is more popularly known as the Space Coast. It is located on a barrier island between the Atlantic Ocean and the Banana Ri...

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Key West

You can travel to Key West by Road, Sea or Air and when you get there you will find it a city of fascinating contrasts. In fact after a few days there you may find yourself wanting to stay far away from the hassles of everyday life forever!

With its balmy weather and beautiful blue skies, th...

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Jacksonville Zoo

A couple of years ago we had a few days near Jacksonville and whilst we were there we took the girls to Jacksonville Zoo. We spent the whole day there and they really enjoyed it.

The Zoo is open daily from 9:00 a. m. to 5:00 p. m 363 days of the year only closing on Thanksgiving Day and Chri...

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Motorsports at Daytona Beach

The Daytona Beach area is a must see for all motorsport enthusiasts. There are plenty of race parks and speedways including the world famous Daytona International Speedway which is a 480-acre motorsports facility and is open 10 a. m. - 4 p. m. daily. This is the home to the biggest, richest and most...

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Water Activities at Daytona Beach

For those who love the sea and enjoy water sports the Daytona Beach area is a must do on any holiday.

Whilst my Mother likes to sit on the beach and enjoy the sun the rest of the family go and enjoy the many activities Daytona has to offer,

For those who want to try kayaking they wil...

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Reptile Discovery Center

If you are in the Daytona area and want to visit somewhere slightly different consider going to Reptile Discovery Center which is located just 15 minutes from Daytona Beach. The address for the Center is 2710 Big John Drive (U. S. Hwy 92).

This Center was only opened a few years ago and a vi...

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Explore Venice on the Gulf Coast

If you are ever on the Gulf Coast it is well worth spending a day in Venice. Last time we went we were traveling from Orlando down to Naples and we broke our journey there.

For those in the party that like to relax in the sun head to the beach. You can get there from Main Street it is only a...

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Favourite Things to do in Florida

There are many many things I like to do in Florida but thought I would try and share the best of these with you.

Breathing in the Florida air as you leave the airport terminal and cross the road to get your car – you really know you have arrived.

Getting up early that first morning (...

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Santas Enchanted Forest

If you are in Miami in December you cannot always feel the Christmas spirit when you have long days, warm temperatures and no sign of any snow.

One year we flew into Miami airport with Virgin as we intended to spend a few days traveling along the Space Coast on our way up to the villa in Orl...

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Ocala

If you feel like a day away for the Disney Parks why not visit Ocala which is 90 minutes north of Orlando. You will enjoy its rolling hills with ancient oaks and sleepy backroads and you will see the most beautiful horse farms.

The whole town is a based around the horse business. You will fi...

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Easy Tips for Visiting Parks

Every time we visit the Parks I seem to think of a tip I must remember for our next visit to Orlando.



If you going to visit a Park more than once in a year investigate buying an Annual Pass. I am not sure if non residents can do this for the Disney/Universal Parks but they can de...

Viewed 0 times

Great Meals at Applebees

The more we go to this restaurant the more we are impressed with the service and the standard of the food.



Our villa is at Lindfields situated just off the 192 about a mile before it meets the 27. Applebees is about one mile south on the 27 in the Berry Centre so is a great locat...

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The Sunken Gardens - St Petersburg

If you fancy a day away from the Orlando area why not go to St Petersburg on the Gulf Coast and whilst you are there visit their Sunken Gardens.



St Petersburg is about an hour and a halves drive from Orlando if you do not wish to go there and back in a day there are many reasonab...

Viewed 0 times

Things to do in Clearwater

If you visit Clearwater on the Gulf Coast you will be amazed at the amount of things to do. Clearwater is about an hour and a halves drive from Orlando along the I4. When you initially get there you may want to go to the Visitor Information Center which is situated at 333 C, South Gulfview Blvd. on ...

Viewed 0 times

Fishing on the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys is a fisherman’s paradise with many types of fishing available. Apparently more saltwater world records have been established in the Florida Keys than any other angling destination in the world



If you are staying in Orlando and want to visit the Keys it might be ...

Viewed 0 times

How to Get to Key West

The Florida Keys is a one hundred and twenty mile island chain and is linked to mainland Florida by U. S. 1, the Overseas Highway. I estimate the driving time from Miami to US1 is approx one hour. Some people only want to go to the Upper Keys so this is not too long a journey.

If you are t...

Viewed 0 times

Our first Day in Orlando

After months of anticipation and planning we are finally waking up for our first day at our villa. I am never sure whether it is jet lag or sheer excitement but it is unusual for any of the family to sleep after 6. 00am.



If fact one year when my Mother and I both woke at 4. 00am...

Viewed 0 times

The Pinellas Trail

If you have ever been in the Gulf Coast area surrounding Treasure Island, Clearwater or St Petersburg you will have seen signs highlighting the Pinellas Trail



The Pinellas Trail was originally thought of in the 1980s by a man, whose son was killed while riding his bike, in associa...

Viewed 0 times

The Sunken Gardens

If you fancy a day away from the Orlando area why not go to St Petersburg on the Gulf Coast and whilst you are there visit their Sunken Gardens.



St Petersburg is about an hour and a halves drive from Orlando if you do not wish to go there and back in a day there are many reasonab...

Viewed 0 times

Cocoa Beach

If you fancy a day, or even a weekend, at the beach and do not want to drive too far head for Cocoa Beach. This beach is only an hours drive from Orlando on the east coast which is more popularly known as the Space Coast. It is located on a barrier island between the Atlantic Ocean and the Banana Ri...

Viewed 0 times

Beyond the Beach ast Fort Lauderdale

One of our favourite places on Florida’s east coast, otherwise known as the Space Coast is Fort Lauderdale. We either visit here en route to the Florida Keys or go over for a couple of days and spend a night in a relatively inexpensive motel. For families of two adults and 2 small children you need ...

Viewed 0 times

Tampa

As we travel to the Gulf Coast I never fail to marvel at Tampa’s large buildings that look as though they are made of cardboard that you can see from the Motorway.



Tampa is situated on Florida' s west coast along the Gulf of Mexico. If you visit here you can enjoy the pleasant oc...

Viewed 0 times

Fort Myers

Like much of Florida Fort Myers was only developed a couple of hundred years ago in the mid 1800s. It was originally a military installation involved in the Civil War. Fort Myers was really made famous by the inventor Thomas Edison who built his winter home and laboratory, Seminole Lodge in an area ...

Viewed 0 times

Sanibel/Captive Beaches

If you want a really relaxing time on the beach and a few days away form Orlando head to Sanibel and Captive Islands. Here you can enjoy 5 miles of unspoiled beaches, 22 miles of bike paths, 50 types of fish, 230 types of birds and over 200 types of shells. You may have heard of the Sanibel Stoop th...

Viewed 0 times

A day in Miami

You may have flown into Miami or are en route to other parts of Florida and have a day to stay in Miami and enjoy it.



If you want to just relax and enjoy the sun there are several beaches where you can do this.



Virginia Key Beach is located right off the Ricke...

Viewed 0 times

Jacksonville Zoo

A couple of years ago we had a few days near Jacksonville and whilst we were there we took the girls to Jacksonville Zoo. We spent the whole day there and they really enjoyed it.



The Zoo is open daily from 9:00 a. m. to 5:00 p. m 363 days of the year only closing on Thanksgiving ...

Viewed 0 times

Motorsports at Daytona Beach

The Daytona Beach area is a must see for all motorsport enthusiasts. There are plenty of race parks and speedways including the world famous Daytona International Speedway

which is a 480-acre motorsports facility and is open 10 a. m. - 4 p. m. daily. This is the home to the biggest, richest...

Viewed 0 times

Reptile Discovery Centre

If you are in the Daytona area and want to visit somewhere slightly different consider going to Reptile Discovery Center which is located just 15 minutes from Daytona Beach. The address for the Center is 2710 Big John Drive (U. S. Hwy 92).



This Center was only opened a few years ...

Viewed 0 times

Favourite Things to do in Florida

There are many many things I like to do in Florida but thought I would try and share the best of these with you.



Breathing in the Florida air as you leave the airport terminal and cross the road to get your car – you really know you have arrived.



Getting up ea...

Viewed 0 times

Ocala

If you feel like a day away for the Disney Parks why not visit Ocala which is 90 minutes north of Orlando. You will enjoy its rolling hills with ancient oaks and sleepy backroads and you will see the most beautiful horse farms.



The whole town is a based around the horse business....

Viewed 0 times

St Armands Circle

If you have never been to this unique place called St Armands Circle I strongly recommend that you do.



To get there from the I-75 you take Sarasota (exit 39), then West on State Road 780 to St. Armands Key. Take the Ringling Causeway over Sarasota Bay to St. Armands Circle. From ...

Viewed 0 times

Explore Venice on the Gulf Coast

If you are ever on the Gulf Coast it is well worth spending a day in Venice. Last time we went we were traveling from Orlando down to Naples and we broke our journey there.



For those in the party that like to relax in the sun head to the beach. You can get there from Main Street ...

Viewed 0 times

Best things to do at Disney

There are so many things that I enjoy at Disney but I thought I would try to list some of my favourites.



Go to Lion King at Animal Kingdom. When you get to the Park your guide map should give you the show times but be sure to get there at least thirty minutes before it starts as ...

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Ybor City Tampa

If you intend to visit Ybor City I suggest that when you get there you first go on a bus tour. These are provided on buses, mini buses and shuttles and are usually called something like “Ybor City the Cigar Capital of the World”. The tour will include seeing the Ybor Visitor' s Center, museum store,...

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Water Activities Daytona Beach

For those who love the sea and enjoy water sports the Daytona Beach area is a must do on any holiday.



Whilst my Mother likes to sit on the beach and enjoy the sun the rest of the family go and enjoy the many activities Daytona has to offer,



For those who want ...

Viewed 0 times

Places to visit near Miami

I thought I would try to document a few places near Miami that you might like to visit.



Firstly there is the Cape Florida Lighthouse which is situated just off US Highway 1 on the southeast tip of Key Biscayne just south of Miami Beach. It is the oldest surviving lighthouse in Fl...

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Enjoy Anna Marie Island

There really is something very magical when you arrive at Anna Marie Island and you see the sugar white sand you know you are in for few days of complete relaxation. There is not any need to plan your journeys for quite times to avoid the crowds because crowds and traffic jams do not exist on Anna M...

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Melbourne for the Day

If you take an hour’s drive along the 192 to the Space Coast you will arrive at Melbourne. Visitors to Orlando often drive here for a day at the beach but there is more to do in Melbourne than sunbathe.



Brevard zoo is a good place to visit particularly if you have younger childre...

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Marathon

Naples is located in Florida' s near-tropical southwest corner and is one of the more glamorous of Florida’s beach areas. It has beautiful white beaches, ample water access, and many upscale restaurants and shops. In the twenty years since we first started visiting Naples it has grown considerably i...

Viewed 0 times

Last day of the Holidays

Many visitors from the United Kingdom to Orlando have an early/late evening flight home. As we often travel with Virgin Atlantic we usually go to Downtown Disney and at the Virgin check in we check in our baggage and receive our boarding cards. The cost for this at time of writing this article is $1...

Viewed 0 times

Guests with Difficulties

Italian Restaurants

There are a few good Italian restaurants in the Kissimmee area

The olive garden is a great Italian and have lots of locations in the area the one we prefer is the one at the Loop shopping area, but lately we have used the one on Hwy 192 by the Hwy 429

They ...

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Old Town

Old town is located in Kissimmee at mile marker 9 on highway 192. It is a very unusual place and is supposed to represent Florida as it was in its old days. The shops are all set out as they would have been back then.

The shops do however sell 20th century goods although there are a couple t...

Viewed 3553 times

Review Of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Review

It' s the talk of the town, well Islands of Adventure to be precise. For any Harry Potter fan, this is definitely a must see. From the moment you walk up to Hogsmead, you are transformed In to the magical world of JK Rowling. They have not spared a...

Viewed 7426 times

Flying to Florida with US Airways Part 3

We are flying out to Fort Lauderdale via Charlotte with US Airways, on our way to pick up a cruise for my special birthday.

September 3rd, 2010 8. 50 am

The boarding gate fills up with people, and we sit and wait for our flight to be called. I take some photos of the ‘plane, then sit ...

Viewed 5791 times

Cruising – Jamaica Part 2 – Martha Brae River Rafting

After journeying through torrential rain in our dilapidated coach we arrive after an hour and a half at our destination – the Martha Brae River Rafting Centre.

The River Rafting centre at Rafters’ Rest is set amongst lush tropical vegetation, and when you arrive you are offered a complementa...

Viewed 6013 times

Access to Disney Resorts & Hotels

There is a common misconception that the Walt Disney World resorts and hotels are the exclusive domain of their paying guests. It is easy to understand why this should appear to be the case as the entrance to each is heavily guarded with security officers and electronic barriers reminiscent of somet...

Viewed 5646 times

A Stroll around Celebration Lake

We have been visiting central Florida for a number of years now and had often past the Celebration water tower on US192 with hardly a second glance.

Until earlier this year we had absolutely no idea what Celebration village had to offer and we were pleasantly surprised by what we found.
...

Viewed 6328 times

highgrove

Hi im new to the site and just recently returned from our new villa we purchased in April at High Grove Resort and i must say how pleasently surprised we were of the location, only 8 mins from Disney with many restaurants bars near by. We really liked Chilles restaurant and santa fe (were me and my ...

Viewed 6336 times

Vista del Lago - The Perfect Location

Vista del Lago is a beautiful tree-lined manufactured home resort located in a prime position less than 5 miles west of Disney. Set around several natural lakes and reserves, the resort is close enough to be right in the heart of the magic but is peaceful enough to offer tranquility in natural surro...

Viewed 7045 times

Shopping in Daytona

Shopping in Daytona is a good way to spend half a day and a break from sunning yourself on the beach.

If you have children a good place to start is The Daytona Magic Shop. Here you will find jokes, tricks and magic, so there is something to amuse children of all ages. I remember my son being...

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The Old Fish Restaurant.

The Old Fish Restaurant is in Cocoa Beach Causeway and is a simple unpreposessing restaurant with a tasty menu at reasonable prices.

This is the home of the ' all you can eat Blue Crab' feast. This costs $28 per person and comes with corn fritters and 2 side dishes.

Also on the all y...

Viewed 5894 times

Villa or Hotel

Why rent a villa instead of staying at a hotel? There very many reasons why this choice of accommodation is the best way to go.

1st: Cost.

A hotel room will only accommodate 2 people plus probably 1 child and you will pay per night somewhere in the region of $150. With a one week sta...

Viewed 6713 times

Sunset Ridge

Sunset Ridge

Sunset Ridge is a small gated community about ½ mile South of the intersection of the I-4 and the US 27. The community cannot be seen from the US27 so the conveniently located Outpost 27 Tourist Information Centre, with its distinctive green roof is a great landmark!

The ...

Viewed 6549 times

Boggy Creek Airboat Ride

What started with a single six seater air boat back in 1994, has since become one of Orlando’s most popular attractions. Thirty minute tours depart every hour between 9. 00am and 5. 30pm every day (weather permitting). No reservation is required so just turn up and don’t forget your camera, there is...

Viewed 1 times

Orlando premium Outlets (6)

Orlando Premium Outlets is a really great shopping mall. They have some fantastic bargains to take back home. This is a great place for you girls to shop whilst the kids are perhaps enjoying the thrills of a theme park.

This oudoor mall is in easy reach of most central locations being only a...

Viewed 5982 times

Fantasy of Flight (6)

Fancy a day out away from the mouse! Then head down the I4 in the direction of Tampa and have a great day out at Fantasy of Flight. This park is an aviation themed attraction which shows the many achievements in flight that we have made over the years. The information is presented in a fun way being...

Viewed 5746 times

Why buy a villa in Florida

You may ask yourself that question and from time to time existing owners do, buying and maintaining a villa together with the upkeep of web sites, booking, quoting and all of the other things that go with owning a property so far away is hard work. It is essential that you work with a good managemen...

Viewed 6163 times

Good places to eat

We are great fans of the Longhorn Steakhouse Restuarants. They provide excellent food at a commonsense price. They are part of the Darden Group who also own Olive Garden which is another good restaurant.

We love their Onion Starter, which compares very favourably with the Outback' s Bloomin'...

Viewed 6176 times

Posner Park - First Block

Posner Park is a new shopping development that opened in 2008 and will eventually have homes and leisure facilities as well as shops. However for now it is a great place to shop for anyone staying on the 27 or around the Champions Gate area. It is just south of the junction of the I4 and the 27.

Viewed 6143 times

Orange Tree Community, Florida

We are proud owners of a five bed roomed single story vacation home with its own private pool and spa, built on the Orange Tree community and here in this informative article you will find some useful information should you be lucky enough to be renting your vacation home in this part of Florida.

Viewed 6708 times

Live Music Orlando

Live Music Orlando

If you are like me and a regular on the concert circuit in the UK it is always nice when on holiday to find a venue that provides live quality music and surroundings. Let' s face it Orlando is quite rightly known for it' s numerous family theme parks which are widely...

Viewed 5959 times

Travelling with a toddler - villa accommodation.

When considering accommodation for families with young children I would recommend a villa every time. As a villa owner I may be accused of a certain degree of bias, but let me assure you that in the last 20 years of travelling to Florida whilst I have stayed in some excellent hotels and motels there...

Viewed 5757 times

Fancy a relaxing night in?

If you are vacationing in a villa or townhouse, most homes offer guests the use of a DVD player. Some home owners also leave a supply of DVDs for guests use. This is a great way to have a break from the theme parks, to maybe order a take out and enjoy a relaxing evening watching a movie.

Viewed 5112 times

Spend the day at Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens is a fantastic family day out. It is a 300 acre African themed park that has something for all ages, including thrill rides, live entertainment, animal shows and exhibits, shops, restaurants and games. There are over 3000 animals in seven distinctly themed sections.

Busch Garde...

Viewed 3450 times

Choosing a Villa

How do you choose a Villa that is right for you?

With so many beautiful villas to choose from it can be a daunting task to find the right villa to make your trip to the Sunshine State a holiday of a life time. Whether you are staying in Orlando or on the Gulf Coast you will be spoilt for cho...

Viewed 6698 times

Choosing a villa for your holiday

When you are faced with a website with hundreds of choices of villas, how on earth do you choose one.

First, think of your party dynamics. How many people and their ages. How many beds do you need in total, how many bedrooms and then how many bathrooms. If you are just Mum and Dad and two ch...

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Other things to do in Orlando besides theme parks

Theme parks are what holidays in Orlando are all about. However, some who visit regularly may be a little tired of theme parks. So what else is there to do. Plenty!

There is a place quite near to the Disney area called Winter Garden and this is like an English country town. There are pleasan...

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Tips on self catering at your rental villa

You will probably need to think about what you will want to buy if you are not planning on eating out too often and for breakfasts. The two best supermarkets are Publix and Walmart and are very comparably priced. American food is often packed in boxes or jars and packets much larger than we are used...

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Renting a car for the first time in Florida

You may have heard horror stories about American car rental companies, so let me give you some very useful information to set your mind at rest.

When booking a rental car for your holiday always book it from the UK. The price will be much, much cheaper than booking from the airport when you ...

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A general idea of villa owners terms & conditions

ACCOMODATION

The villa is licensed for the overnight accommodation of X people, it is a violation of licensing arrangements for more than that and anyone found to be in breach of these arrangements will be asked to leave immediately and will not be reimbursed.

PAYMENT

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Hotel or Villa

Are you planning a holiday in Florida, if so what do you choose to stay in, a hotel or villa?

I am a villa owner so you may think that I am a little biased but I have also stayed in hotels in Florida so will try to be as fair to both as I can outlining the pros and cons for each.

Our...

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VISITING WINDLEY KEY FOSSIL REEF

Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park is located at mile marker 85. 5 on Windley Key. This is quite close to Islamorada.

This park is the site where the world renowned keystone was mined. This was discovered when Henry Flagler was building his railway down in this part of Florida. Th...

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A Diary of our Villa Build

2006:-

February

New Year family decision to be made; put a lump sum into a pension fund or invest in an overseas property? Er hello! For me, it’s like choosing between a date with George Clooney or Gordon Brown! ! It’s a no-brainer. Overseas here we come!

March

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Sandy Ridge community - Orlando Florida

Sandy Ridge is a prestigious community located near to Championsgate and Reunion Resort area of Orlando. The community is made up of around 200 family homes intermingled with large conservation woodland. The area is an ideal base to locate yourself if you want to explore and visit the Disney and sur...

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Hyatt Regency Hotel Orlando Airport

If you have a late flight into Orlando Airport or an early morning departure, you might want to consider staying on-site at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, Orlando International Airport (MCO).

For those frequent travellers to Orlando, you might recall the glass elevator in the atrium at the airport...

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Buying a Villa in Florida

When you have decided that buying a Florida villa is the way that you wish to invest your money, whether it be just for friends and family to use, or if you wish to rent it as a holiday home, there are some things that you may wish to know before you make that step. You are probably feeling apprehen...

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NORTH PENINSULA

North Peninsula State Park is situated in Ormand by Sea off the A. 1. A.

This parks has a 2 mile stretch of unspoiled beach kept in pristine condition by the State Park department. There are lots of wildlife spotting opportunities here so go armed with your camera and binoculars. . . particu...

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South of Kissimee - Part 2

The Florida Keys are made up of the Upper keys , Middle keys , Lower keys and of course Key West. The Upper keys are made up of Key Largo, Tavernier and Islamorado.

Key Largo is the largest community and here is where Humphrey Bogart filmed The African Queen. The boat is usually moored in th...

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Boggy Creek Airboats in Florida

If you cannot make the long journey down to the Everglades, but would love to experience the thrill of an air boat ride, why not try the next best way at Bogey Creek. There are two Boggy Creeks, one near Orlando International Airport and the other at the southern end of Poinciana Boulevard. The one...

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St Armands Circle – Gulf Coast Florida

As the sun sets on the St Armands Circle, the tinkling sounds of a wooden upright piano resonate thru the air, it is played by Ed Williams. Ed has been playing to the locals and tourists for the past 22 years and has become part and parcel of this quaint upscale neighbourhood.

St. Armands Ci...

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Calabay Parc

Calabay Parc is one of the most elegant, stylish and celebrated vacation communities in the Disney Area. It is a highly exclusive development, which nestles quietly amongst conservation woodlands and orange groves. Its impressive entrance is easily distinguishable with its towers either side of the ...

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Glenbrook – a popular place to stay

Glenbrook is a very popular attractive community just north of H192, on H27 – an ideal location for that magical vacation you’ve dream of in Orlando.

Easy to find just one mile north on the 192, Walgreens marks the right turning into Glenbrook Boulevard, passing an island of palm trees and l...

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How easy is it to book your own holiday direct with an owner?

Having spent years booking holidays through a travel agent it really is a leap of faith when you make the big decision to book your own holiday. Most of us have been brought up with the security of a major high street chain taking care of our holiday needs –isn’t that what our parents always did – l...

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Villa V Hotel

When deciding to holiday in Florida the choice of accommodation is vast.

We started holidaying in Florida back in 1985 then Villas were just starting to be built but not so readily available.

We chose a hotel then the main option was Kissimmee, My Parents were well travelled in the ...

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Sunset Lakes

Sunset Lakes is a small, exclusive lakeside community, ideally situated in the Formosa area of Kissimmee, just off the US192, and only 4 miles to Disney via an easy shortcut which will take you to the gates of Animal Kingdom in less than 10 minutes. Easily accessible, it is 40 minutes from Orlando I...

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Ellies first visit to Florida, day 6

Another early start in the morning I am feeling quiet tired at the moment, but I was so excited because we were off to Hollywood Studios.

Hollywood Studios was great there was so much to do but so little time in one day. On our travels we saw many characters and again we had our pictures tak...

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Villa owners enjoy Florida too

This visit was a time to check on my home and to make sure that all was in tip top condition for the coming rental season 2008.

Arriving on Thanksgiving Day was a good move. I was out of Orlando Airport in about 30 minutes

My first night was spent in a friends villa, we planned to try...

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GLENBROOK a vacation community

Glenbrook is a new mainly rental community completely finished in 2006 and located on US27 1. 2 miles north from the top of the US192 and a distance of just over 7 miles to the Disney gates. The landscaped gardens and palm tree lined streets lead to 267 homes all featuring private driveways, screene...

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High Grove Resort – an update

I can’t believe it’s almost a year since I wrote my first Florida guide article about High Grove but it is so I thought I’d better up date it as a few things have changed, all for the better I might add.

High Grove is a first class resort development of 3, 4 and 5 bedroom homes that was comp...

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Booking a Florida villa direct with the owner.

With so many villas for rent out there it can be difficult to know where to start to book a villa or vacation home, as they are known in the U. S, for your Florida break.

Step one has to be to find a good advertising site such as Orlando Villas or one of its sister sites. Reputable ones will...

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Owners on vacation

How do the owners spend their vacations I hear you all ask?

Well unfortunately for us it is not all days at Disney and lying chilling by the pool, most of us spend numerous days in places such as Lowes, Home depot and Wal-Mart’s, shopping for the items that make our homes look wonderful year...

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Cruising On Star Princess, Part 4

Sail-away

We have embarked on Star Princess for the start of our Caribbean cruise, and following a delicious lunch we find our cabin is now ready for occupation. It is always a great relief to see one’s suitcases outside the room, as it is one’s worst nightmare to be on a cruise ship w...

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Villa versus Hotel

For many years we always spent our holidays in a hotel. Self catering seemed to me to be a bad option as surely it would be no holiday at all for the lady of the house – that’s me! I have enough of cooking and caring for a family at home and the idea of relaxing and doing nothing on holiday really a...

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Sandy Ridge

The first thing that will hit you when you drive into the Sandy Ridge sub-division is the multitude of colours the villas are painted in, coming from the UK this is something you are not going to be used to seeing. You feel straight away that this is an unusual place, you can sense you are near to D...

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Four Corners

Four Corners is a lovely community along the US27. It is nestled in the heart of the Disney area just 4 miles from the HWY192 and the theme parks can be reached in less than 15 minutes but also is away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist area. Orlando International airport is about 40 minutes ...

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Villas versus Hotels

As a family we love Florida with its relaxed atmosphere and fabulous climate. Over the past 12 years we have visited on numerous occasions during different seasons with our two children staying firstly on International Drive –The Ramada - and then many times on the Disney Complex at various hotels (...

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ORANGE TREE a great place to stay

You can find this community easily as it is about a mile and a half north from the western end of Hwy 192 heading in the direction of Clermont on Hwy 27.

One thing that strikes you as you drive up Hwy 27 is the Tower at the entrance to Orange Tree. and the line of orange trees that lead you ...

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New to villa holidays…………what should I pack?

If you are new to villa holidays and moreover new to Florida villa holidays you may be wondering what you need to pack!

The golden rule is to travel light on the outward journey!

The main reason for this is to be able to take advantage of the fabulous shopping opportunities in Florid...

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Why Indian Creek is such a Fantastic Location for your Stay

First time visitors to Orlando will be unsure and over whelmed by the amount of homes on offer and to the location of many villa's, maps are often misleading.

Indian Creek is just 3. 5 miles away from Disney's Animal Kingdom so a perfect location to base your holiday in Florida from.

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Excellent Vegetarian Restaurant

Sweet Tomato - This restaurant is great for all you vegetarians.

This restaurant is situated on International drive close by to the Belz shopping area and more or less opposite wet and wild.

On Entering you are met by the biggest salad bar you have seen you can choose which side you wa...

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Crescent Lakes Community

Crescent Lakes is ideally situated for your Florida stay as it’s within 15 mins of the Disney area but offers peace, quiet and is a great place to return to after a busy day at a theme park. There are shops, restaurants and supermarket within a few minutes but Crescent Lakes is located in a huge wil...

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We're going to Florida, where shall we stay? (Part 1)

When you start to plan your holiday there are some questions that always come top of the list firstly where shall we go and secondly where shall we stay?

Well in our house for the last fourteen years the answer to number one has always been the same, Florida. After our first “once in ...

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We're going to Florida, where shall we stay? (Part 2)

For our second trip to Florida although there were only four of us, Mum, Dad and 2 kids aged 10 and 12 we decided that we needed more space than we could get in either a hotel room or suite so we decided to book a three bedroom villa. We booked through a tour operator which did involve us paying ...

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We're going to Florida, where shall we stay? (Part 3)

After spending two summers in Florida in rental villas that we had booked through a tour operator we decided that for our third villa holiday we would go it alone! Our first experience of villa holidays had been wonderful with a beautiful well equipped, well maintained home our second experience ...

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Ybor City-Tampa

So often on our way to Tampa and ultimately Clearwater I have seen the signs saying Ybor City and I have always been intrigued as to what it was and what went on ther.

One Sunday on our way to an overnighter in Clearwater and therefore had a bit more time to stop we turned off to see what we...

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Westridge

The Westridge estate is situated between the I4 at junction 58 and the 192, it is a pleasant community that is part residential and part short term let villas which gives an ideal mix and a easy and laid back sort of feeling to the estate. It also gives peace of mind that there is always someone aro...

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Solar Panel Pool Heating

Solar panel pool heating is a very expensive addition to your villa, ours cost around $6000 but does a very good job indeed, originally we installed it when we first bought the villa as we thought that the villa needed to offer a little bit extra to what we perceived that it offered, in other words,...

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Why do I own a Villa?

Why do I own a villa

Why do I own a villa?

I really do not know

It costs a lot of money

For us to rarely go.

We purchased it three years ago

It is our pride and joy

But the mortgage keeps on rising

It’s not a blinking toy.

The guests ...

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The Reserve at Town Center Resort

As the name suggests, The Reserve at Town Center Resort is a small, exclusive, gated community. The 94 detached, single storey homes that make up The Reserve are finished in soft pastel colours, and the roads are lined with palm trees, to create that holiday feeling immediately you drive up t...

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Calabay Parc Villas and Community

Situated a mere 9 miles from Disney and less than an hour’s drive from both the Atlantic and the Gulf coast, Calabay Parc is a beautiful upscale community primarily made up of high quality vacation homes. On arrival at Calabay Parc, visitors will be greeted by the distinct Towers at the entrance, wh...

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Hotel versus Villa

What do you book when you are visiting Orlando? A hotel or a villa.

Lets have a look at both, hotel first. There are many very adequate hotels in and around Disney, prices range from $35/40 per night per room upwards, but most good hotels will cost around $85 per night per room and although ...

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The Joys and Pain of Owning a Villa

That’s it, you’ve done it, you’ve been thinking about it for years and now the deed is actually done and you walk into your own little bit of America, your immediate thoughts are, is this villa up to the standard that I would like if I was renting it from someone, and so it starts.

Replace t...

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Chillin’ at the villa

Your Florida holiday really is what you make of it. Theme parks, shopping and golfing are what Orlando is famous for and they are all great, but… I recommend that you spend AT LEAST one day just chillin’ at the villa.

Just as you wouldn’t buy park tickets then not use them, it would be crazy...

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How to book a Florida villa direct from the owner without worries

Well this is still the thing that scares an awful lot of people and is the reason why so very many people still prefer to book through a tour operator which as far more expensive and the majority of the time you are unlikely to know exactly which home you will be staying in.

So why do it, wh...

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Around Legacy Park

The communities that are near Legacy Park along the US27 have certainly noticed change over the last few years, the area was completely void of any housing developments, shops or restaurants. There were a few garages, certainly no hotels, just miles and miles of beautiful orange groves as far as the...

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Hampton Lakes

Hampton Lakes is a gated development set amongst the rolling hills and Orange Groves of the Davenport countryside. Situated off of Highway 27 and with excellent access to the surrounding areas Hampton Lakes is one of the most sought after Vacation resorts.

Hampton Lakes has a true Floridian ...

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Formosa Gardens Estates

Formosa Gardens Estates, is a securely gated Sub-Division, Phase one was built around the year 2000, and phase two from 2003 on. It is World Renowned as, truly, one of the best, if not the best, Locations you will find.

Just at marker 4 on the western end of the 192, Irlo Bronson Highway, on...

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Davenport for Disney!

Davenport and the US 27 is growing at a fabulous rate, whilst maintaining a certain “upscale” feel about it that makes you glad you are staying there while you are enjoying the delights that Central Florida has to offer. We were first driven to the area by the Realtor to show us some properties to c...

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Palm Beach County

Although our beautiful villa is in Orlando, and we visit it regularly, we have become very familiar with the Miami area of Florida as a result of our daughter working in Boca Raton for a year, as part of her UK degree course. On our numerous visits to see her we have been lucky enough to enjoy some ...

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Choosing the Villa of Your Dreams

Now you have made the decision to visit The Sunshine State the first thing to do is confirm the number of people travelling with you then decide which villa to choose and as this site offers villas with every imaginable luxury and comfort the choice will not be an easy one.

Now the fun really...

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Planet Hollywood at Downtown Disney

Planet Hollywood makes its impact on the skyline at Downtown Disney west side, and is even more spectacular when viewed at night. It is an amazing building looks like a massive bright blue globe, sitting in a lake, with lights beaming out around to draw you like a magnet. It is a place you should vi...

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STR Accommodation is the ONLY way to go!!

Being born and bred in the great U.S.A., I was always with the majority of Americans in my ideas about accommodation when vacationing. We never thought of other options as there just aren’t any – you go on vacation and you stay in a hotel! Right? Wrong!!

The Disney area is unique in that ther...

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Cumbrian Lakes - a true community!

When we were looking to buy a holiday rental home in Florida, we looked at lots of different homes in locations across the state. As we drove into the beautifully cared for Cumbrian Lakes, we knew our search was over. This community had everything we wished for, and we knew our guests would feel the...

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High Grove – A Great Place to Stay

High Grove is a new (completed late 2005) top class resort development of 3, 4 and 5 bedroom homes situated in one of the most convenient locations in the Disney area. I must point out that I am biased as this is where I decided to buy my home when High Grove was just a building site back in Novembe...

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Choosing a villa

The choice of accommodation for tourists in Florida is overwhelming, especially in the areas around Orlando and all of the major theme parks. There is every possible option from budget motels through to up-scale hotels and obviously many villas available to rent. We are obviously biased on this site...

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Champions Gate

Champions Gate is slowly becoming an area that many more people are visiting. It’s location is superb being seconds away from Junction 58 on the I-4. As you come off the I-4 you drive through the ornate high gates and you are in Champions Gate.

Apart from the usual parade of shops, which incl...

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Southern Dunes Golf & Country Club

Situated just twenty minutes from Disney and less than an hours drive from both the Atlantic and the Gulf coast, Southern Dunes Golf and Country Club is a beautiful and peaceful gated golf community. It is an idyllic place to stay for both golfers and non-golfers alike. Set amongst privately owned h...

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Why Florida? (6)

Why Florida?

Well why not; year round sunshine and the ever-falling costs of transatlantic flights tempt millions of us each year to visit this wonderful place. The wealth of choice available makes it an ideal choice whatever you are looking for.

Of course Disney being the main attract...

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West Stonebridge

West stonebridge is a newly completed tranquil community and it’s perfect location just off the US27 makes it the ideal place to stay and enjoy the best of Florida. Just two miles from the I4 the main highway that will take you to all of the Disney parks, shopping malls and both the east and west co...

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Florida villa rental is value for money

Florida villa rental (value for money)

We have stayed in various places around the world and in some lovely villas offering fabulous swimming pools and lovely views, but never have I stayed in a villa, which offers such fantastic value for money as the villas on offer in and around Orlando. N...

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HISTORIC BOK SANCTUARY

How about visiting somewhere different when you are next in Florida? Bok Sanctuary has something to interest almost everyone. An extremely serene and peaceful place, this national historic landmark was gifted to the USA by Dutchman Edward W Bok in 1929. The Sanctuary is situated at Tower Boulevard, ...

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A relaxing stay in a villa

Our family consists of 6 children and Mom and Dad. Our first family trip to Florida was in 2002. Our baby was just 10 months old, so we brought my parents to help. We rented a Villa for the first time in our lives. BOY, that was the best decision EVER! I still tell everyone that a villa is the way t...

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choosing the right villa (part 2)

Now that we have chosen type/ Size of villa, location, type of community the villa is on we need to look at a little more detail of each one.

By now you would have got a short list together of all of the above and started to narrow the search down. Still you will be left with a load of prope...

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Canaveral Coast

During our last trip to Orlando, I had a yen to be beside the sea. Having made the trip to the Gulf coast the previous trip, we elected, actually I decreed, we would be making a family trip to the Canaveral Coast this time.

The word Canaveral usually makes people think of space exploration, ...

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Choosing the right villa (part 1)

There are many factors involved in choosing the right villa for your stay in Orlando. Many of the choices we have in choosing the right villa can be a little daunting at first, however the end product of being able to stay in your own private villa more than makes up for the time spent researching. ...

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Why a Villa ?

For years people have been going to Florida for their holidays, me included ! And the norm has always been to stay in a hotel, but in recent years that has all changed and people are realizing the freedom you can have by staying in a villa.

In a hotel room you simply have the bed, a TV and mo...

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Booking in advance or last minute?

Is it best to book a villa in advance or to leave it a little nearer the time and book last minute? With many people planning well in advance it has become more and more harder to get the right property and flights so close to your intended travel date.

I would always advice people (after my...

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Cypress Gardens

On our last visit to Florida we decided to get away from the hurly burley of the Disney theme parks and visit the now re invented Cypress Gardens. This park is situated around 45 minutes drive south of Kissimmee in Winter Haven and had re opened after closing down a short while ago. It was not bu...

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Sandy Ridge

Sandy Ridge is a new community located near the prestigious Championsgate and only 10 minutes from the heart of Disney. The community is around 30 minutes from Orlando International airport and around 1 hour from Sanford airport. To visit Disney and all the attractions you could not be better placed...

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A good plan

Many people who travel to Orlando normally find it very hard to decide what to do when they are on vacation. This can lead to some arguments with who wants to visit what parks on certain days. How do you get round this type of problem?

Firstly as some of the best Army Generals said, always ha...

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Windwood Bay

Windwood Bay is a newly finished tranquil community surrounded by conservation areas and forests. Perfectly located on the quiet 54, approximately 2 miles from the I4, the main highway, which can conveniently take you to all Theme Parks, attractions, shopping and both the East and West coastline.

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Enjoy the pool safely

Most of us will not be used to having a pool at the back of our house and so it is very important that when you visit Florida and choose to stay in a villa that you follow the rules regarding pool safety.

Most villas in Florida will have pool and some also have Jacuzzi.

Some villas w...

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Championsgate

We decided the time had come for another game of golf; we had begun to experience withdrawal symptoms since our last game at Naples and after hitting the ball extremely well in our previous round we would strike whilst the iron is hot (so to speak).

we headed south on the highway 27 turned l...

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Why a villa

Well if being stuck in one cramped hotel room, tight for storage, space, fights over the TV, stirs any memories then why not rent a villa.

They are not as expensive as you may think as the price is for the whole villa and three bed’s will sleep up to 8 while four bedroom villas will sleep 10 ...

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Downtown West Palm Beach.....Clematis Street

Downtown West Palm Beach…. Clematis street

There is really only one place to be on an evening in West Palm Beach and that is Downtown on Clemetis street.

Clematis street is the historical heart of downtown west palm beach, starting at Flagler drive on the intercostals waterway

...

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Booking early

Is it best to book a villa in advance or to leave it a little nearer the time? With many people planning well in advance it has become more and more harder to get something cheaper the longer you leave booking something.

I would always advice people (after my experiences) to book a flight or ...

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Welcome to Lake County

Just to the west of Disney, roughly halfway between the Gulf and Atlantic coasts lies the attractive, unspoilt area of Lake County. Recently it has become a popular location for residents and vacationers to enjoy with its many lakes - hence the name - rolling hills and orange groves - you may even e...

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US 27

The US 27 has changed so much over the past few years , it is hardly recognizable. when we first visited in 1989 it was just a stretch of road that we used to go to Cyprus Gardens or Tampa, there was absolutely nothing along it apart from the odd garage ,no restaurants, shops or supermarkets let ...

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Indian Ridge

Indian Ridge is located in the 192/Disney area of Kissimmee.

It is one of the closest communities to the wonderful Walt Disney World – within 5 minutes (if the traffic lights are with you!) and 3 miles south of the main gate.

There are around 500 homes within the community with the lar...

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My first Villa experience

Why book a villa when there is so many hotels and choice in the Orlando and Kissimmee area? Well in years gone by when I used to visit Florida (Disney area) I did not know about the fact that people rented out their own properties to people wanting to stay in the area. It was only around 2001 that I...

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Two Centre Holidays

The Central Florida attractions are often the reason many visitors choose to spend their vacation in Florida. The Orlando area is known as the vacation capital of the world for good reason, and the theme parks attract millions of visitors each year.

But there are other 'jewels' in Florida, an...

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Self Catering

One of the real advantages of renting your own vacation home is that you have the choice to cook your own meals, if preferred. For a family that can be a real money saver - although the array of restaurants in and around the theme parks offer great choice and value.

Virtually all hotel accomm...

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Disney Boardwalk

The Boardwalk, close to Epcot, and signposted from within Disney World is a wonderful relaxing place to visit, particularly in the evening. It is themed on an Atlantic seaside resort from a bygone era. You can almost see the ladies in their long dresses, carrying parasols and the gentlemen in stripe...

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Macy’s Holiday Parade - Universal Studios

Macy’s Holiday Parade comes direct from New York Ciry after Thanksgiving. To be honest, this is the very first time we have seen it in action, and we now realise what we have been missing. Everyone’s seen “Miracle on 34th Street” with the Christmas parade as the little girl sits in the window as ...

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Oak Point

Oak Point, situated on the County Road 54, is a small, quiet and largely owner occupied residential community.

It is predominantly surrounded by conservation and pastureland, hence the wide variety of wildlife that can be seen around and about the community.

The active Home Owners ...

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Blizzard Beach (6)

Blizzard Beach is cool.

For those of you who have never experience Blizzard Beach then you’re in for a real treat. This water park is probably my favorite water park of all the ones in Orlando.

Disney Legend has it that after a freak winter storm snow covered the entire area and Fl...

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Book Early Or Last Minute?

Well for years I used to be the person who left things to the very last minute and to be honest did very well at booking holidays or flights (normally at a good rate). Since then booking holidays and especially holiday villas or appartments last minute has become increasingly hard.

Firstly th...

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Enjoying a Florida Villa Holiday with an Older Person

We were excited, but quite concerned about taking my 85 year old mother to share our Florida home, but now we know what is possible we will do it again with confidence. We are therefore happy to share our information with others.

To start it is essential to get the GPs advice that the person ...

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Renting a Vacation Home Explained, To Americans, Part III

Let’s talk about destinations outside Disney, first non-Park ones. There’s the usual assortment of chain restaurants. Actually, more than the usual assortment. Orlando is considered a “test-market” for many restaurants because they get customers from all over the country. Of course we visit the Outb...

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A villa or a hotel. Which will you choose?

If you are undecided about whether to stay in a hotel or a villa or if it’s your first time in Florida and you have only considered a hotel then read on.

When visiting Florida for our first time in 1996 and for a number of years after we stayed in different hotels purely because we tra...

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Renting a Vacation Home Explained, To Americans, Part II

This is Part II of a guide just for Americans.

Let’s tackle getting the Disney tickets. You have several choices, some of which are much better than others. You can buy the tickets from the Disney or other Park websites, saving a wait in line. Disney never has a park ticket deal on their sit...

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Choosing a holiday location

If you are just about to plan your next holiday and are considering where your destination should be then why not consider Florida.

Florida has something for everybody. If you want to keep both children and yourself entertained then there is nowhere else in the world like the Theme Parks t...

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Why Florida Anyway ?

ANSWER, because it is THE most perfect destination.

WHY, is it the most perfect destination?

ANSWER.................. where else has to offer the wealth of choice that is available in this glorious sunshine state of Florida?

Surely, for families Orlando is a dream come true...

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Renting a Vacation Home Explained, To Americans, Part I

I am in a minority, I am an American vacation home owner. Most vacation homes near Disney are owned by British families. This is mostly due to their love of Florida and their established acceptance of what they call “self-catering holidays”. In fact the Orlando Villas site and many others were found...

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The Guest House at Sanford Airport

The Guest House is situated in the International departure lounge of Terminal A at Sanford Airport, and the access and signs for it are adjacent to Chadwick’s Pub. It opens four hours before the first international flight of the day and is specially designed for the holiday or business traveller and...

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The Right Choice, a Privately Owned Florida Home.

Florida is the most wonderful holiday destination that anyone could imagine or wish for. There really is something for everyone, and all age groups. Whether it is the beautiful beaches of the Gulf or Gold coasts that you are heading for, or the thrills and attractions that the theme parks in Orlando...

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Villa now cheaper than Hotel

Is the Villa more cheaper and more popular than staying in a Hotel or Motel?

Well I first went to Florida in 1995 and to be honest never ever considered a holiday or stay in a luxury villa while visiting Orlando or the Gulf Coast area. For many (including myself) thought that staying in a vi...

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Getting the most out of your rental home!

You’ve chosen the very best type of accommodation for your Florida visit, a privately owned vacation home and made a great choice. So how do you get the most of it for your stay?

Most of the vacation homes are within 15 mins of Disney so, if you want to start early at the parks, why not come ...

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St Augustine

St Augustine

Two hours drive north of Orlando is the historical city of St Augustine. St Augustine is America’s oldest city and has two main areas of interest, the 43 miles of beaches and the buzz and charm of the old town. Both are great places to visit. St Augustine has a completely ...

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Where to stay in Florida

Well that’s depends as much about what you want to do as it does on what your budget is.

It must be remembered that a great, successful trip to Orlando or any part of Florida is about great planning. If you simply book somewhere to stay with a vague idea of your intentions you are going to mi...

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Hampton Lakes Community

Florida’s Tropical Community of Orlando Vacation Homes

Visit Hampton Lakes, a magnificent development of award winning Orlando villas with private pools, which provide a style of living based on the art of relaxation. The villas range from 3 to 7 bedrooms in size, many with games room facilit...

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Cirque De Soleil

If you want to be amazed, exhilarated and see a breath taking performance with a difference, then this has surely got to be top of your list of thinks to do while in Orlando.

Cirque De Soleil is Acrobatics, Balance, Gymnastic, Juggerling, and humour all rolled into one to make a show of outst...

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Disney in a Day

We have been visiting central Florida since early 1993 and I think we can now be classed as official addicts. There is so much to do in and around the Orlando and Kissimmee area that we never have a problem finding somewhere new to try on each trip. However we do have our favourite’s that we try to ...

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But I Don't Like Theme Parks

“But I don’t like theme parks”, said sister-in-law. Brother-in-law said, “been there once, seen it all”. These are the responses we got when we offered our families a special rate if they wanted to go to our recently purchased Florida villa.

Why do people think that Disney, Mickey Mouse and S...

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Key West, a brief tour

Despite vacationing in Florida for over 15 years we had never visited Key West. It was always on our “to do” list. However we finally took the plunge this July, and Oh how we wished we had done it sooner.

We left our hotel in Naples just after 10am on our trip down to the Keys. We skirted the...

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The Guest House Premium Lounge - Sanford Airport

If you are travelling back from Sanford Airport why not pre-book The Guest House, the VIP departure lounge where you can relax in style before your flight back home. One of the great things about The Guest House is that they allow children and adults.

If you have younger children they have ...

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Villa versus Motel – you decide!

Orlando is full of many options - things to do, places to eat and places to stay.

There are a wide range of options just for accommodation , but many people end up choosing between a cheap motel or a Florida villa.

A cheap motel often appears the cheapest option. However it may ...

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Cafe Tu Tu Tango - For The Starving Artist!

After driving past and always meaning to pop in for a meal we eventually made it to Cafe Tu Tu Tango on International Drive last night. Marketed as a Spanish artists loft, it is a very lively place! Local artists sell their wares and are on the premises actually creating their art. You can buy al...

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Fort Lauderdale - A Road Trip To Enjoy?

So you have been to Orlando?

You loved it of course, that goes without saying. But, you feel like going to the coast for a couple of days, perhaps at the end of your Orlando trip? Maybe you are a little concerned about the driving? But then you have coped better than you thought. Well, af...

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Bok Sanctuary, Florida

What do people come to Florida, on holiday, for ? Is it the sun and sea ? Is it the theme parks ? Is it to play golf ? Is it to fish ? Is it to visit NASA ?

Or is it to try something not normally associated with Florida ? Something away from the hustle and bustle. Something non-touristy. S...

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Cruise and Villa Bliss

We went to the villas for a chill-out session! I had forgotten how relaxing it was, and was pleasantly surprised on returning. I can’t wait to get back each year because nobody seems to mind how late I get up or if I swim all day! Mum and Dad just read books and sunbathed and Grandpa tried to pus...

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Disney's Boardwalk Hotel

Disney's BoardWalk was planned as a "village across the water," a place where frazzled tourists could take a day off from the theme parks or spend a romantic evening.

The complex, which opened in 1996, features the BoardWalk Inn hotel and a lakefront entertainment a...

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Universal's Hard Rock Hotel

Last October we decided to spend the first two nights of our holiday at the Hard Rock Hotel before heading off to our villa (mainly because we had guests in the villa that wanted to extend their stay!)

It felt very strange driving from the airport and not automatically knowing the w...

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Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

As with all of the Disney hotels the Animal Kingdom Lodge welcomes visitors even if they are not guests.

When you first see the hotel from the outside, it appears to be part of an African village. The thatched roof and stucco siding tries to imitate the style of great ...

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Booking A Villa in Florida For The First Time

People who have never stayed in a Florida villa are often apprehensive about making the first steps in booking a villa. I know we were when we first booked a villa two years ago. We asked ourselves hundreds of questions including:

• is it going to be very expensive?
• can we af...

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Pool Safety

Your Florida rental home will almost certainly have its own pool and may also have a Jacuzzi spa. Here are some tips to have lots of water fun but stay safe.

If you have ordered pool heating, please note that it takes quite a long time to heat up the pool to its optimum temperature. If...

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Abiding By The Rules Of Your Vacation Villa

Renting a villa is far preferable to cramming a whole family into one hotel room - more space, much more comfort, a real home from home. But villas by their very nature are part of real communities, especially those on mixed residency estates where your short term rental v...

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