Category Archives: Orlando

Top 4 Hotels to Stay around Walt Disney World, Orlando

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If you are planning a vacation to Walt Disney World – the world’s largest recreational resort to take a short break from your busy life, you would be better off knowing about the best hotels around, packed with all modern comforts and luxuries. Here we’ve compiled a list of four that have a lot to offer with supreme quality and service to make your trip a memorable experience.

Sheraton Vistana Resort Villas

Standing tall a few minutes’ drive from the Walt Disney World, Orlando theme parks, top beaches and golf courses, Sheraton Vistana Resort Villas is a family friendly accommodation option in Orlando that provides residence-style privacy along with absolute fun. This property is exclusively designed with one and two bedroom villas that are done with living and dining areas and kitchens or kitchenettes.

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Each villa is well-provided with modern conveniences like Bose home theatre system, washer and dryer, and complimentary high-speed internet access. Along with these luxuries, the two bedroom villas come with en-suite bathrooms offering a sumptuous stay for families. The resort presents a true spa experience for its patrons in the luxurious massage rooms beautified with soothing low lighting, stimulating scents and soft music. For dining, there are opulent indoor and outdoor options namely Zimmie’s Bar & Grill, Castaways Bar & Grill, Tacky Tiki Bar & Grill, The Market Place & Sheraton Cafe and The Outpost that ensure a wonderful dining experience with their distinctive menus and magnificent ambience. Guests can stick to their fitness routine and spend some leisure time at the seven colossal outdoor pools and three well-equipped fitness centres available within the premises.

Clarion Inn & Suites at International Drive

Clarion Inn & Suites is a supreme-class accommodation option in the vicinity of Disney World that serves its patrons with exclusive luxury at an affordable price. Within 2 miles of SeaWorld and Universal Orlando, and just a 15-minute drive away from the Orlando International Airport, this hotel invites you to experience a stay filled with matchless comfort, quality and luxury. Visitors can have an amazing dining and wining experience in the casual, relaxing and beautiful indoor and outdoor setting of The Scene Cafe and lounge. The impressive thing this hotel offers is the free scheduled transportation to Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando. All the 221 rooms and suites are well-furnished and equipped with modern amenities like refrigerators, coffee maker, high speed internet access and more. An outdoor pool in a lush tropical setting and an on-site fitness centre will not let you put a break on your fitness routine. This property enjoys a great location adjacent to the Orlando Orange County Convention Centre.

Best Western Orlando Gateway Hotel

Situated close to the Disney Theme Parks, Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld, the Best Western Orlando Gateway Hotel is a true oasis of luxury, comfort, elegance, peace and quality. A true value for money, this property ensures a gratifying stay at its 297 well-equipped rooms that are wrapped with contemporary amenities like refrigerators, microwaves, complimentary Wi-Fi access and more. One can choose a room as per their needs and budget from the categories like 2 Beds Deluxe Skyline, 1 King, Queen Accessible, Poolside and King Suite. A colossal outdoor pool is the perfect place to relax, invigorate and spend some leisure time with the family. Corporate travellers will enjoy the hotel’s easy access to Orlando County Convention Centre, Coleman Aerospace, L-3 Communications and Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. For dining, there is a multi-cuisine restaurant and a bar where guests can treat their taste buds with scrumptious food and exotic drinks. Other facilities like fitness centre, half basketball court and conference and banquet facilities make this hotel an ideal place for business as well as leisure travellers.

Hyatt Regency Orlando

An upscale business cum leisure property in the heart of Orlando, Hyatt Regency stands just 13.7 miles away from the Walt Disney World. This iconic hotel makes for an opulent and relaxed accommodation option with its 1641 elegant guest rooms including 131 luxurious suites provided with a number of contemporary conveniences and luxuries. Guests can take a refreshing dip in its two dazzling pools and rejuvenate at the full-service spa well-appointed with exclusive features. For dining options, this exquisite hotel has seven distinct restaurants, bars and lounges namely Urban Tide, Fiorenzo Italian Steakhouse, The 24-hour B-line Diner, Rocks, Lobby Bar, Coconut Poolside Bar & Grill and Market. Corporate clients can easily conduct conferences and meetings at the huge, 315,000 square foot event space that features 105 breakout rooms, five pillar-free ballrooms and a 75,000 square foot networking space. Apart from this, grand intimate gatherings, wedding receptions, bridal showers, and bachelor and bachelorette parties can be organized at the huge wedding space.

Holidays in Orlando: USA’s Dream Destination!

The reputation of Orlando being a dream holiday destination is one that needs hard work to maintain. This city never stops amazing you. From the endless fun that you can have at SeaWorld, Disney World and Universal Studios, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to Epcot and Magic Kingdom to the excellent shopping arcades that are going to make you want to splurge, Orlando is a holidaymaker’s paradise. There is something for everyone here and there won’t be a single dull moment.

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When to visit

Relax on idyllic beaches with cocktails and indulging in water sports or attend food festivals and concerts and other colourful events around the city. There are several festivals you can attend such as the Mount Dora Art Festival, Downtown Food and Wine Festival and the Orlando Wetlands Festival, besides others.

Orlando has ideal weather to visit all throughout the year and this is what makes it one of the most interesting destinations. However the months from January to April are considered the best months to travel here. In terms of affordability, you may want to book tickets between the months of August and September. On the other hand if you plan to be here for the major events and festivals, the best time to plan your travel is around Christmas, Independence Day and Easter.

Art, culture and history

If you wish to learn about the city and its origin, visit the beautiful museums and local exhibitions to get a whiff of the true spirit of Orlando. The art and creativity is such embedded into the veins of the city you will be thrilled. What will also amaze you are the rich social and cultural backgrounds that have amalgamated to become one here. There is a large Hispanic population here; and hence there are a number of Latin events and cultural programs conducted here.

Eat your heart out

Orlando has the best options when it comes to food. If you are a foodie you are going to be spoilt for choice. Besides cuisines available from different parts of the world, you must also try some typical local dishes which will give you the true taste of Orlando. Italian, Irish Mediterranean, Irish and Argentinean cuisines are famous and prevalent here. Some of the best places to eat here are Chatham’s Place, Norman’s, the Melting Pot and Shula’s Steak House.

Nightlife and things to do

Besides the numerous pubs and bars here, that are cosy and inviting, there are all sorts of other interesting places that you can visit. The ICEBAR Orlando is one famous lounge you have to visit while you are here. Orlando boasts of some of the best wineries and breweries in the world and you have to try their freshly made blends. If it is adventure that you are looking for you can try open cockpit biplane rides; and when you crave a quiet time you can go fishing in any of the wonderful Orlando Lakes.

Mardi Gras Celebrations in USA

Mardi Gras also known as Fat Tuesday, marks a holiday in various regions of the USA and features a number of big and small celebrations.

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It is often also called Shrove Tuesday which marks the last day of celebrations and festivals, before the fast for Lent starts. If you are planning to book tickets for a holiday in the US during February, the best time would be between 5th and 8th February.

History

Mardi Gras was held in the US for the first time in 1703 when it was still a French colony. The present custom of celebrating Mardi Gras by hosting an elaborate parade was started by the Cowbellion de Rakin Society in 1840, who assisted another group to set-up the Mardi Gras celebration in New Orleans in 1857. Mistick Kreweof Comus was the foremost carnival society, which participated in the coordination of the event, the same year.

Present Day Celebrations

Shrove Tuesday is celebrated on the final day before the fast for Lent across the country. Have a look at some major cities across USA where Mardi Gras is celebrated with great zeal and zest.

New Orleans

The famous parade during Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Louisiana is celebrated by masquerades and revellers dancing on the roads. The main highlights of the parade are the King of the Carnival, the Monarch of Merriment and Comus (known as the God of Revelry). On that day, the revellers can be seen in colourful and extravagant costumes. A magnificent ball is organised on the occasion.

Orlando

Orlando is said to host the best Mardi Gras celebrations in the country after New Orleans. Orlando’s Universal Studios Mardi Gras has something for people of all ages. Famous musical performances, Cajun food such as shrimp gumbo and jambalaya, and live concerts are all part and parcel of the celebrations.

Mobile

The Mardi Gras celebrations in Mobile started in 1703 as the first and the oldest Mardi Gras carnival celebration in the US. With traditional parades, huge crowds and marching bands; the most unique aspect about the Mardi Gras celebration in Mobile, is the fact that people from different religions and cultures, including Swedes, Americans, Creoles, Africans, Britons and Spaniards celebrate it.

Public Life

Louisiana marks a state holiday on Mardi Gras. It is also a holiday in the Mobile and Baldwin counties exclusively in Alabama. The county of Mississippi or other governing authorities have the liberty to declare Mardi Gras as a public holiday, that can replace any legal holiday apart from the Birthday of Martin Luther King combined by the Birthday of Robert Lee.

Restaurants in Downtown Orlando – Pick of the Lot!

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Downtown area of Orlando is a beehive of never-ceasing action! With a fine stretch of high-class dining attractions and eateries, culinary experience around Orange County Courthouse, Amway Center and Bob Carr takes on a new significance. It is certainly one of the reasons why hordes of travellers who take Orlando bound flights make a point of touring the enchanting area. Take a look at some of the bewitching dining options in the area.

Terrace 390, N. Orange Avenue

The culinary experience at Terrace 390 casts indelible marks on the mind of every guest. Its yummy delicacies are elaborately prepared with bold flavours and are created to tickle the taste buds of one and all. Its amazing bill of fare is blended with marvellous salad varieties, soups and appetisers in addition to wide-ranging sandwiches and burgers. It also offers a wonderful option for alfresco dining amid the intoxicating action of the downtown. No wonder, the restaurant has emerged as one of the popular attractions among many international tourists who arrive on Orlando flights.

Citrus Restaurant, N. Orange Avenue

Another great option in North Orange Avenue, Citrus Restaurant is a famous dining venue that has earned various accolades for its eclectic power lunch and business dinner. Its awe-inspiring carte du jour offers a fabulous selection of steaks, seafood and salads. Citrus Restaurant also boasts an extremely comfy indoor bar area and outdoor terrace dining. All in all, the enchanting place has everything what epicureans taking Orlando flights seek for an ideal eating experience.

Chico’s Dirty Taco’s & Tequila, E. Central Avenue

Chico’s Dirty Taco’s & Tequila is where you can relish the authentic Mexican cuisine in Downtown Orlando. It is hard to resist from the sapid flavours infused in authentic Mexican recipes. It is harder to escape from the splendour of lively ambience and joie de vivre that’s drenched in the air. Guests can choose from varied sittings like alfresco dining, indoor dining or the festive atrium. Boasting the biggest Tequila and mezcal variety in downtown, it is famous for wooing many tequila lovers who board Orlando bound flights.

Top Shopping Haunts for Shopaholics taking Orlando Flights

Booking tickets on Orlando bound flights; travellers enter into a newfound world of retail therapy! Literally, this fascinating city of the US state of Florida is a shopper’s paradise with no end of vibrant shopping options on offer. Its swanky malls such as the Neiman Marcus, lively markets like in the Downtown Orlando and impressive boutiques aplenty leave shopaholics spoilt for choice. Here are some popular places that catch fancy of swarms of tourists who book tickets aboard flights to immerse into Orlando’s invigorating shopping culture.

shopping in Orlando

Orlando Premium Outlets – Vineland Ave

Those wanting to indulge in some extravagant retail therapy should head here. From Armani Exchange to Burberry – the luxurious mall has it all! Located just a mile away from the famous Walt Disney World Resort, it boasts some of the world’s finest designer labels and is truly an inspiring shopping spot for spendthrifts making ticket reservation for flights arriving in Orlando. In between the shopping adventure, one can savour a variety of delicacies at the food court inside the mall.

Downtown Orlando

A good way to absorb the city’s true flavour is taking a stroll around the innumerable boutiques, shops and stalls in the Downtown Orlando. Perhaps the liveliest of all market places in the town, it is thronged by a large number of locals as well foreigners. One can shop here a variety of goods at reasonable prices. Foods, drinks and entertainment are also available in abundance. Chaffering is almost non-existent. Plus, all the money one saved by booking cheap flights and holiday deals can be put to good use here.

Neiman Marcus

Located in The Mall at Millenia area, Neiman Marcus is like a specialty store presented in a more sophisticated and elegant manner. With plenty of world’s most renowned designer brands including Parada, Fendi, Balenciaga and Gabbana on offer, this exclusive shopping arcade is an alluring destination for those who prefer quality over price. Come here to buy measure suits, beauty brands or latest trends in denim, sportswear and shoes. It truly deserves a visit by tourists who spends on cheap tickets aboard flights for Orlando holiday.

Useful Information for Flying with British Airways to Orlando

From the acmes of its magical rides to the profundity of its rich history and culture, Orlando will astound one to the core. Tourists cannot help lose themselves in this haven of luxury resorts and world-class shopping arcades. It is also hard to overlook its indefatigable blend of ancient gems and modern munificence. What’s more, the city fascinates visitors with its brilliant architectures and mouth watering cuisines. Sitting in the heart of the US state of Florida, Orlando is a brilliant destination that sets even blasé travellers look out for deals on cheap flights to this glorious metropolis.

Information for Flying British Airways to Orlando

Given that the city is a treasure trove of fascinating baits, flights for Florida’s Orlando remain in much demand among Britons. Every year swarms of revellers from the UK make a way to this wonderful metropolis for basking in its everlasting glory. And British Airways is undeniably the airline of choice among the keen travellers.

The national carrier of the United Kingdom, British Airways operates direct flights connection to Orlando from London, its hub in the UK. The carrier allows passengers to choose from the varied versions of its travel classes – First, Business and Economy. Exuberant travellers, after booking first-class travel on BA’s flights, will be enjoying exceptional comforts and impeccable hospitality during the journey. Those on constrained budget will find travelling in cheap economy class a good value for money.

British Airways’ direct Flights take around nine hours to reach Orlando International Airport. After landing at the airport, tourists can choose among the various transportation means including taxis, cabs and shuttle bus services to go to their desired destinations.

Besides the award-winning in-flight entertainment, what makes travel with BA a special memory is its awesome meal plan prepared and served personally to a passenger. Then there is the airline’s experienced and friendly cabin crew that is dedicated to offer a pleasurable journey to all.