Summer Vacation Planning Time

It is time to make your vacation plans for the summer. So get started now by making a vacation planner.

Dead Daytona Beach Fiance Shows Up 20 Years Later

A "dead" South Carolina man who was thought to have drowned 20 years ago in Daytona Beach showed up recently. The man was engaged at the time and went on a trip to Daytona with his then fiancee to get married. Daytona is a wonderful place to vacation and no doubt the locals are buzzing about this sordid affair. Note to self: email this to all friends with shady partners.

Read more:

http://www.cnn.com/2009/CRIME/01/29/faked.death.arrest/

Dayton Beach Info:

http://daytonabeach.com/

Tips For Flying Standby?

By Tom Tessin

If you travel a lot or you haven't traveled before, you may still be familiar with the term "flying standby". Flying standby is a term the airline industry uses when a traveler wants to fly on a flight with an open seat. Travelers that usually purchase a ticket the day of will usually have to fly standby if there a limit number of tickets available.

If you find yourself flying standby in the future, there are a few tips you can follow in order to make the trip at the airport a lot easier.

Don't check your luggage

If you're flying standby, don't check in your luggage. A lot of the times an airline will look for people that have carry on only. If you have checked in luggage, it's just going to be a bigger hassle for the airliner to find your luggage and throw it on the plane. If you just bring carry on luggage, you're going to increase your chances of getting on the flight.

Early flights work

If you can get to the airport early, you'll find that earlier flights are usually easier to get on since many people technically don't travel early in the morning. If you find yourself traveling in the afternoon, this is peak traveling time and you may find that the flights are going to be busier compared to the mornings.

Try calling the airline's customer service department

Before you make the trip to the airport, check with the airline before hand and see if there are flights available that you can possibly standby for. Most of the times, the airline will be friendly and give you some flights that you can possibly fly standby on. If you do find that airline you call doesn't have a standby flight available, try and call other airlines to see if they have possible solutions.

Stay at the gate

It's important that you stay near the gate when you're on the standby list. If you tend to walk away during the time when the flight is about to be boarded, you may find that the employee tried to call your name. Sometimes, you're not the only one on the list. This is why it's important that you stay nearby so that if your name is called, you can be there to get on the flight as soon as possible.

You may find that most of these tips will help you in your standby success. If you find that the situation is too stressful, always remember that it's best to be patient. When flights generally board, you will find that most employees are pretty stressful during this time. Always remember to treat others as you want to be treated. Trust me, the employees will keep note of this and will treat you a little nicer than the other customer who is furious with the staff. If you keep your head on your shoulders and have a lot of patience, flying standby should be a piece of pie.


About The Author

Tom Tessin

Don't fly standby and get cheap travel credit cards and more of Tom's work at http://www.findairlinecards.com

Holidays In Orlando Florida

By Terry Hely

A little known citrus farming center called Orlando was paid a visit the 1960s by a gentleman called Walt Disney who started buying land on the outskirts of the town.

The remainder of that story is now history and by 1971, that land had become Walt Disney World. Today, Orlando has a resident population of approximately 200,000 people and visitor numbers swell that figure into the many millions.

The words "Orlando, Florida" immediately conjure up images of fairy tale palaces, thrill rides, theme parks and Disney characters loved the world over. The combination of the "big 3" Orlando entertainment parks of Walt Disney World, Sea World and Universal Studios have no equal anywhere else in the world.

Located on the the outskirts of Orlando, the towns of Lake Buena Vista and Kissimmee are home to most of the major entertainment park attractions. It's no surprise that the accommodation industry generates a major portion of the Orlando economy and that it employs a high percentage of the local population.

The nearby towns of Winter Haven and Altamonte Springs offer a change of pace from the hustle and bustle of Orlando and the parks. Their quiet rural charm and sedate pace provides a glimpse back to the time before the area became the home of the world's best known entertainment parks.

** Orlando Hotels And Resorts

Orlando has more beds to service the tourist industry than any other USA city except for Las Vegas. Orlando is the fifth most popular USA city for travelers visiting from overseas. It is not surprising that the accommodation industry represents a major portion of the Orlando economy and employs a high percentage of the local population.

Visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to Orlando accommodation and every taste is catered for in every price range. From themed luxury hotels, fantasy resorts, exclusive golf resorts, condominiums, vacation rentals, bed and breakfasts, backpacker hostels to luxury villas, it's all available in and around Orlando.

The parks have several entrances which can be separated from each other by quite a distance, so selecting accommodation near the best gate for you can be an important consideration. Orlando accommodation is often named for proximity to a particular theme park (Universal) or a particular gate (main gate east etc)

** Orlando Transport

At least 35 airlines and just as many charter operators fly into Orlando International Airport with the bulk of these flights being Delta which accounts for around 25% of the flights that originate in approximately 160 different cities.

Other airlines serving Orlando are America West, American, Air Canada, British Airways, Continental, Northwest and US Airways. The Orlando Airport website provides and excellent page about airport shuttle services and city transport.

Amtrak is the USA rail service and it operates to and from Orlando with connections to many of the surrounding towns such as Kissimmee, Sebring, Winter Haven, Sanford and Ocala.

The I Ride trolley service is an excellent way to get around the International Drive Resort precinct. The LYNX bus service covers the downtown Orlando metropolitan area and surrounding cities.

The main highway through Orlando is I4, running directly from downtown Orlando to the Disney area. If you plan on driving in Orlando, be prepared for traffic, especially at rush hour.


Copyright (c) 2008 Terry Hely

About The Author

Terry Hely writes destination guides that are valuable resources for planning vacations and travel. Find out more about Orlando vacations from his page at http://www.go-florida.net/orlando-florida.htm

Obama Historic Train Ride Chugging Along

President-Elect Obama is re-tracing the final stages of the train trip that Lincoln made to assume the presidency.

Obama's train will journey through stops in Wilmington, Delaware.They will pick up Vice President-elect Joe Biden,and the proceed to Washington DC. They will arrive in the capital on the eve of a start-studded inaugural concert at the Lincoln Memorial.

Perhaps, this will spark a renewed interest in train travel throughout the country. Sadly, the closet most Americans have come to a train ride, is a local subway or roller coaster.

Video Clip Of Historic Train Ride:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/americas/7835434.stm

Beam Me Up to Latvia Scotty

These stunning images show mysterious columns of light streaming into the sky above the town of Sigulda in Latvia at the end of last month. They remind me of the Star Trek Transporter from the popular sci-fi show.

Taken by designer Aigar Truhins with a standard digital camera, the photographs have prompted excited online discussions among amateur astronomists all over the internet.

See more mysterious light photos here

Here is some additional info on Latvia:


http://www.latviatourism.lv/info.php

Top Tourist Attractions in Barcelona, Spain

By Monika Szmit

Planning a trip to Barcelona? Don’t forget these popular attractions.

Barcelona, located in Spain is one of the most beautiful places to visit. Make sure you see all it has to offer when you are there. From museums to popular beaches, and don’t forget the excellent restaurants, Barcelona promises to deliver excitement, enjoyment, and above all, a time you will never forget!

Barcelona is the capital city of Catalonia and the second most heavily populated city in Spain. It is located in northeastern Spain, approximately 160 KM from the French border. The population is roughly 1,509,500. Barcelona has 53 museums and galleries, 41 theatres, 143 cinemas, 6 beaches, 62 parks and gardens, and well over 2,300 restaurants. Let’s get moving as there is so much to see!

Museums You Don’t Want To Pass By

If you are a fan of Picasso’s, be sure to check out the Picasso Museum which has most of his wonderful works of art from his early days until his final days. Maybe you enjoy sculptures. Then you need to check out the Museum Frederic Marés, which has sculptures from the 12th to 17th century.

The Museum of the History of Barcelona has all you need to know about Barcelona’s history and its popular traditions that are exhibited on three floors. If you’re a history fanatic, like me, this is not one you want to pass by.

Sagrada Familia, one of Antoni Gaudi’s greatest creations, is the most visited attraction, with 2,000,000 visitors each year. The giant temple has been under construction since 1882. The museum you find inside gives the details of the development and offers information about the Sagrada Familia. Most of the tourists who’ve seen the Sagrada Familia have loved the architecture and design of this giant temple.

Attractions for Kids

Do you have little ones with you who are dire need for something “cool” or “fun?” L' Aquarium de Barcelona, or The Barcelona Aquarium, will most certainly fit into those categories. It is the most popular attraction for kids and young ones. The enormous tank is filled with sea creatures that you can find almost anywhere in the world. You can even swim with the sharks! The giant aquarium is located at Port Vell, or Barcelona Port Area.

Right next door to the Aquarium is the IMAX Port Vell Cinema, a large-format theater, which attracts about 1 million visitors each year and is open year-round. This IMAX Cinema was the first integral movie theatre ever built, which means that you can enjoy not one, not two, but three different projections: IMAX, 3D, or Omnimax. The kids can choose to watch 3D films including ones about sharks or space.

Another popular attraction for the little ones, that you may also enjoy, is the Barcelona Zoo. The zoo has a wide variety of animals including the giant anteater, Siamang, and the Indian Elephant. The zoo also has restaurants, shops, ponies, electric cars, and a picnic area. This promises to be a lot of fun for the entire family.

Beaches in Barcelona

Barcelona has 6 beaches, just for you. All of their beaches offer drinks and ice cream, children’s games, lifeguards, hammocks, telephones, and sport areas. Barceloneta Beach, one of Barcelona’s most popular beaches, also has a restaurant and canoes available. Mar Bella Beach, another beach in Barcelona, has an aquatic motorbike that you may use if you choose.

The Magic Fountain of Montjuic should not be missed. The fountain is a light, color, water, and music display that is free to the audience. It is highly recommended to see and is enjoyable for tourists of all ages.

As you can see, Barcelona is a city that has much to offer, but whether you are here for business or pleasure, be sure to try and check some of these wondrous places that can only be found in, well, Barcelona!

About The Author
Monika Szmit writes for Four Corners Hotels, which offers discount hotels around the world. http://www.fourcornershotels.com.

Escape To Aruba a Caribbean Island Ecstasy

By Dan Ayala

Aruba, as many travelers will tell you, has to be among the most welcoming places on Earth. Aruba is situated in the deep southern part of the Caribbean. It is renowned for its white, sandy beaches on the western and southern coasts of the island, relatively secluded from fierce ocean currents. It is a Caribbean island 15 miles north of the coast of Venezuela and enjoys a very healthy climate, making it a year-round paradise for residents and visitors alike. Aruba is also known for its excellent shopping and is a great destination choice, ideal for family vacations. This island paradise is also home to some of the world's most popular snorkeling and scuba diving sites, from reefs to wrecks.

Island

The origins of the population and location of the island give Aruba a mixed culture. It is mixture consists of people from South America and Europe, the Far East, and other islands of the Caribbean. The interior of the island features some rolling hills, the better two of which are called Hooiberg at 541 ft and Mount Jamanota, the highest on the island at 617 ft above sea level. Many activities are central to the resort area of the island and are within walking distance. Just outside the bay is one of the best snorkeling spots on the island. This island has a lot to offer, so let the Aruba experience accompany you on your dream vacation while you discover and rediscover all its benefits.

Beaches

Aruba's beaches, and there are an abundance of them, rank among the cleanest, widest, and most striking of the Caribbean. They curve like an Aruban smile along the western shores, gentle and white and brimming with palm trees, slanting gently toward the peaceful crystal clear turquoise of the Caribbean. There are many very secluded small beaches along the northeast coast, a few requiring a 4 wheel drive vehicle to reach. It is here that you may be alone and do as you wish, or course subject to interruption at any time by other vehicles or horseback tours. These gorgeous beaches are all public and access is easy; either through a hotel or by parking directly at the beach. We have found that the best time to see the beauty of the beach is during sunset. You can enjoy it while at your table on the private beach. If your vision of paradise consists of powder-white beaches and incredibly clear azure waters, Aruba is that paradise.

Hotels

Hotels welcome your business, and it shows, from the bend-over-backward service to the never-ending array of services they offer. Aruba hotels have stores to take care of your needs and shopping enjoyment; water sports for the on the go vacationer, a variety of international cuisine to please your taste all in an exotic atmosphere, and not to forget local and international entertainment to liven up the night. Hotels are bountiful for all travelers in this small nation, and Planet Holiday has a range of hotels in Aruba at discount rates for you. Hotels change rates at different times during the year and spontaneously to reflect supply and demand, so a "costly" hotel could be more affordable than a "modest" resort during a seasonal window of opportunity.

Aruba enjoys one of the highest standards of living in the Caribbean expanse and the lowest crime rate; low poverty and unemployment rates are also positives. Aruba has since invested in tourism, which has become its economic foundation. It is well-known for its festivals and events, from weekly interaction welcoming travelers to annual festivals of international renown. It has become an island of distinction and traditions with one outstanding feature: fun in the sun. In my opinion, Aruba is undoubtedly a precious stone deposited in the Caribbean Sea and should be on your list to visit soon.


About The Author

About the Authors: Dan and Janet Ayala are passionate about travel and it shows in their writing. They have produced a free newsletter about family vacation traveling and the vacation traveler blog. You will find valuable travel information, tips and related stories at http://www.thevacationtraveler.com. If you are planning your next vacation, consider the Island of Aruba, the jewel of the caribbean. Visit http://www.yourarubavacation.com for more great information about Aruba.

Air Travel and Pets

By Ray Welds

Air Travel and Pets

Do you have to travel by air in the near future? If you do, are you a pet owner who needs to bring your pet along with you? Although most of us leave our pets at home, you may not want to do so or your purpose for travel may be to move, as opposed to taking a fun filled vacation. Regardless of your reasons for wanting or needing to travel with your pet or pets, there are a number of important points that you will need to keep in mind.

The first step in traveling with a pet is to make sure that you can do so. Although a good number of airlines will allow pets on their planes, not all will. You may be in a predicament if you plan to depart from a small airport with only one or two airlines. If they do not accept pets or if their rules and restrictions are too much for you to handle, you will want to examine other nearby airports, especially those that are larger in size.

When traveling by air with your pet or pets, it is important to remember that you will be charged an additional fee. Unfortunately, many first time pet travelers believe that they can use their pets and their pet carriers to count towards as a carry-on bag or a checked bag. This isn’t how it works though. You will, almost always, be charged an extra fee for traveling with a pet. This extra fee will likely depend on the airline in question and well as your pet’s location, such as in the cabin or in the baggage compartment.

That leads to another important point. Even with some of the airlines that allow pets, like cats and dogs, aboard their flights, not all allow pets to be in the cabin with other passengers. This is particularly common on small planes where allergies may be a big concern. If you cannot part with your pet, be sure to search for an airline that will allow you to keep him or her in the cabin with you. With that said, remember that the size of your pet will also play a huge factor in your options.

Regardless of where your pet is stored for the plane ride, you will need to have a pet carrier or crate for them. Many airlines have specific rules and restrictions on what type can be used. Resections often include materials used, as well as size. Most will provide you with that information when asked. Speaking of pet crates and carriers, it is important to make sure that you give your pet enough room to stand and move around a little bit. In fact, most airlines will refuse to transport pets that they feel are unsafe from small pet crates and carriers.

It is also important to make sure that you get your pet checked by their vet. You will want to make sure that your pet has all required vaccinations and that they are fit for travel. Also, all airlines require that you receive a health certificate, which will state that your pet is healthy and safe for travel.

The above mentioned points are just a few of the many that you will want to take into consideration when traveling with a pet. Added tips include booking direct flights, making sure your pet’s collar is marked with the proper identification, as well as their pet carrier.

For more tips on traveling by air, such as traveling with children, finding great deal, traveling last minute and over 25 other articles on how to travel by air go to:

http://millionairemaker-airtravel.blogspot.com

Ray Welds
http://www.wealthyislander.com

Welcome To Miami

By Terry Hely

Miami is a sub-tropical city, climatically very different from most places in the USA. The city is a cosmopolitan playground that attracts more visitors than any other US destination.

Miami appeals to holiday makers wanting warm sun, clean sandy beaches, a laid back lifestyle, sophisticated entertainment in clubs and bars and a mix of art, music and international cuisines.

Travelers visiting Miami may actually spend their time in Miami Beach, a separate municipality situated 4 miles (6 km) across Biscayne Bay from downtown Miami. The combined greater Miami area includes several ethnic neighborhoods such as Little Havana and Little Haiti.

The population of the Greater Miami Area is a 50% mix of assorted Hispanic and the diverse cultural mix is evident in Latin American languages, cuisine and music throughout the city and. Dining in Miami offers the opportunity to visit a different ethnic restaurant every night and enjoy diverse international cuisines.

Once upon a time, Miami attracted mostly retirees turning their backs on snowy, colder climates but nowadays it attracts the ultra-chic glitterati, cashed up yuppies, the boating and yachting fraternity and Cuban immigrants.

** Miami Vacation Attractions

Greater Miami is a great base for access to several major Florida holiday attractions. The northern tip of the Florida Keys is just off shore, the Everglades are just a short distance inland and the affluent enclaves of Palm Beach and Boca Roton are just a short distance along the coast.

The Miami Beach Promenade, aka South Beach, is a favorite spot for cyclists, skaters, joggers and skateboarders. This is the most instantly recognized beach front location in existence and the place to be seen if appearances are important.

Many of the early Miami buildings from the early 1900's have been restored. A walking tour around the South Beach precinct is recommended to see the spectacular rejuvenation of the 1920's buildings in the Art Deco Historic District.

Miami boasts fine museums, galleries, historic gardens, zoos, sports stadiums, spring fed natural pools and of course, the ever present golf courses. Greater Miami has lots to brag about when it comes to world class golf courses and is home to some of the most testing courses in the world.

** Miami Vacation Cruises

The busiest cruise ship center of any city in the USA is the Port of Miami with holiday cruises to the Caribbean and Latin America making up the bulk of these cruises, but there are also cruises to all parts of the world.

Cruises are usually well equipped for gambling and casinos open as soon as the ship passes into international waters. Non stop food, games, movies and onboard activities ensure guests are always entertained and well fed.

** Miami Hotels & Resorts

Miami visitors are offered a range of hotels, resorts and vacation rentals to satisfy all tastes and budgets. There's accommodation and prices to suit everyone, ranging from the restored boutique hotels in the Art Deco and South Beach district, modern glass and chrome high rise hotels, budget hostels, beach front condos and villas, serviced apartments, inns and guesthouses... it's your choice.

** Miami Vacation Transport

Miami International Airport is one of the major airports in the USA, and a major hub city for American Airlines. Major domestic airlines such as Delta, Northwest/KLM, United and US Airways and Continental all servive Miami as well as several economy carriers.

There are two Amtrak trains that run daily from New York down to Miami and the travel time is approximately 27 hours.

The Metro-Dade Transit Agency runs two Miami rail systems, one being Metrorail which is a modern elevated commuter train that connects downtown Miami and the southern suburbs. Metromover is an elevated line looping the downtown precinct and connecting with many of the important attractions, shopping and business districts.

Tri Rail is the south Florida commuter train service that connects Miami with North Palm Beach and all centers in between.


Copyright (c) 2008 Terry Hely


About The Author

Terry Hely specializes in travel destination guides as planning resources for holiday makers. Find out more about Miami vacations from his page at http://www.go-florida.net/miami.htm

Travel Insurance - It pays to check the small print!

By Keith McGregor

A common thread in most complaints over travel insurance is that ‘I didn’t realise I had to do that’ or ‘no-one told me I couldn’t do that.’ Whilst sometimes this is a totally justified call because miss-selling of travel insurance, though less frequent than in the past, still occurs, there is still a many people who take travel insurance out by simply ticking the box on the holiday booking form without as much as seeing what they are covered for. This is far from ideal when it comes to making a claim because pleading ignorance is never a strong position to come from. But you can help yourself if you follow a few simple rules:

# Always get a report from an official source within 24 hours if something goes wrong. A police report for theft, a tour operator’s reports for baggage delay and loss, an airline letter if you suffer travel delay and a Property Irregularity Report before you leave the airport if your luggage is lost or delayed. Without these, you will find that insurers will not readily settle your claim.

# Know what valuables you are taking with you and take extra care of them. Valuables will be defined in your policy but generally includes all jewellery, mobile phones, computer games and equipment and cameras. Add to this list the personal money you take with you. By extra care, we mean you should lock them away in a safe in your room or carry them with you. They should never be left unattended and never in checked in baggage otherwise this will invalidate a claim.

# Keep receipts. Not only will this help to substantiate your claim but you are more likely to get close to value of the lost items back, subject to wear and tear. If no receipt is provided then the maximum amount that will be paid back will be capped at a low level. If several unreceipted items are claimed then this will also raise suspicions that the claim is fraudulent and could be investigated.

# Do call the Medical Assistance line if you have to go into hospital abroad or need medical treatment that could be costly. It is worthwhile doing this for anything that could be above £250. Once this is on record, you are generally well covered up to the agreed amounts.

# And finally, whilst this guidance is for travel insurance policies, many people will have a household policy in force that should cover ‘all risks’ up to a set value and this could also be used for a claims for personal belongings lost or stolen whilst on holiday but do check the small print again to see what exclusions apply.


About The Author

Keith McGregor is a partner of Strawberrysoup, a web design agency with offices in Chichester and Bournemouth. Strawberrysoup specialise in creative web design, content managed websites, search engine optimisation, search engine marketing and graphic design

http://www.strawberrysoup.co.uk/

Skier Left Dangling from Lift Butt Naked

A mishap on a ski lift left a skier upside down and butt naked. This was an unfortunate incident and we wish the man the best. He will more than likely sue. Hopefully, this is not a celebrity or other well-known individual. Other than that - the skiing in Vail, Colorado is great. Click the link below for the rest of the story ...and photos!



http://www.thesmokinggun.com/archive/years/2009/0106091vail1.html

Spring Break 2009 - The Best Packages For College Students

By Ted Carroll

Spring break 2009 will be a very memorable experience for most college students. Its very important to know which packages are worth the money. Its also important to know which trips are popular if you want to be where the action is.

Price is the main factor for spring break vacations. Most students can't afford to pay $1000 for spring break. If you take this into consideration, you can eliminate many packages right off the bat. Stay in the sub $500 category if you want to be with the majority.

Try to concentrate on the key elements of each package. Don't be hypnotized by free food and drink promotions and other incentives that typically turn out to be worthless. The internet is full of travel agencies that offer this type of incentive. They usually end up being available to anyone at the destination. Many businesses and hotels offer 2 for 1 drinks specials and free food (such as buffalo wings) during the month of March. This type of thing is available to anyone, its not exclusive to one package.

Look for packages that offer more social interaction. Flight packages are expensive, plus its hard to move around and talk to your friends. Spring break cruises offer more freedom, and the party starts when you board the ship. This is not the case with flight packages. The party starts when you arrive at the hotel with a flight package. Many college spring break students are starting to realize they can have just as much fun traveling to the destination.

Spring break 2009 can be your best ever. Do your homework and find the best package for you and your group.

Ted Carroll is the author of this article.http://www.BahamaSun.com is a great source for spring break 2009

Walt Disney World Deals - Make Your Disney Trip Affordable & the Time of Your Life

By Carrie Simpsons

You must go to Walt Disney World if you have never been. If you have been you are probably itching to go back. It is the perfect combination of entertainment for adults and children. It is the perfect family vacation, but it is also not cheap. However, you can get Walt Disney World deals that will save you hundreds.

To get all the possible deals and save the most money you will have to spend a few dollars to get a top Disney saving guide. However, you can get this type of guide right online so you can download it instantly and you will have it in your hands today instead of waiting for it to be shipped. Here are a few tips to help you in the meantime

1. Use Timeshares to save

There are two main ways to use the wonderful Timeshare people to save on your Disney trip. You can use them to get a very much discounted stay at their resort. You can also wait until you get there to take a tour and save on your actual Disney tickets. This alone can save you a couple hundred dollars for a couple of hours of your time.

2. Stay off Disney and save

You can stay at a very nice hotel for very cheap off of Disney. The hotels on Disney are expensive and so are the restaurants around Disney. However, if you stay off Disney it will be less expensive and so will the restaurants.

3. Use the coupon guides

If you want the best Walt Disney World deals, then you have to get the online guide, but you can also use the coupon books that are all over Orlando when you get there. They will save you on everything from entertainment, food, and souvenirs, to anything else you can think of. This is a great way to save $50 - $100 while you are in Orlando.

Click Here right now to Save hundreds on your next Disney World Vacation!

Orlando, Florida - The Areas and Best Locations to Stay in Orlando

By Orson Johnson

Often called the Oasis of Entertainment, it is rather impossible to just pin down one specific area when discussing the areas and best locations to stay in Orlando, Florida. Visitors can take their pick of at least 7 specific locations. And when used as a personal base-of-operations, each of these areas will put you in close proximity to a variety of recreational spots, theme parks and lodging options that ensures your stay or vacation to Orlando, Florida will be fun and memorable.

Lake Buena Vista: This is the largest and newest location for places to stay in Orlando County and is professionally managed by the Walt Disney Corporation. A wide range of hotels that are generally affiliated with national or regional hotel chains are the most wide-spread accommodation options of vacationers. Lake Buena Vista is one of the areas and best locations to stay in Orlando simply because it is located near Walt Disney World in addition to the areas close proximity to great shopping and dining.

Disney World's Resort Properties: For the true Disney fan or the family that enjoys the Magic Kingdom so much they want to own property right in or near the park, this is the place for you! For vacationers, there is the choice of staying in one of the many hotels within the confines of the Magic Kingdom. Staying here, visitors will never be far from the fun thanks to free shuttle bus service.

Kissimmee area: The town of Kissimmee is popular not only for its relaxed atmosphere but also for its historical importance (one of Florida's oldest towns) and great leisure activities like its championship golf courses and family activity centers. Also, finding accommodation options here should not be a problem.

Universal Studios Area: This area is rich in attractions but not nearly as rich in lodging options. Vacationers should be prepared to spend as there some truly high-priced hotels in this neck of the woods. Other accommodation options are just as expensive but the advantage is that you get to stay near a majority of family-attractions.

Sea World (International Drive) Area: The International Drive area near Sea World is a favourite of many families - especially those with young kids. Affordable lodging options can be found a little bit off the beaten path.

Orlando County Convention Center Area: Almost in Sea World's backyard, the Convention Center area is minutes away from the Magic Kingdom and is popular for that reason alone. Great shopping is another attraction as there are many "Outlet" malls nearby.

Remember, location is everything and the greater Orlando area offers areas that allow for every taste and budget.

Orson Johnson writes for Holiday Velvet, a website providing Orlando accommodation rentals and Florida vacation Rentals.