I couldn't possibly have a website that didn't feature Orlando in Florida - having been six times - and with my next visit lined up for 2023.
Orlando is a fantastic option for fun and excitement and you certainly don't have to be a fan of pulse-pounding rollercoasters and rides to thoroughly enjoy it. My husband isn’t a fan at all but still has it as his number one destination.
There is so much here for every member of the family, whatever their age. Whilst many do of course come for the world’s ultimate theme park destination, Orlando’s appeal goes much further with its robust dining scene, mega outlet shopping malls, an abundance of outdoor recreation and a unique local history.
We have travelled with a one-year-old, parents over 70, plus all ages in between, and though each of us love the anticipation and atmosphere of the theme parks and have our personal favourites, we unanimously agree that the wonderful waterparks are a great down day in between - although there are still plenty of thrilling water slides and coasters if you want them.
Who wouldn't want to spend a few hours relaxing in the glorious Florida sunshine, as you float in a giant ring down a twisting, turning lazy river?
I will of course be very happy on request to talk extensively about the different theme and water parks and how to plan well to make the best of your time.
New parks and rides seem to be added every couple of years and, in my humble opinion, the most successful in recent years is the incredible Wizarding World of Harry Potter which spans across the two Universal theme parks - Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios.
My children grew up reading the books and watching the films and to now be able to step inside the story, walk the streets of Diagon Alley and around the village of Hogsmead, travel on the Hogwarts Express, go inside both Hogwarts Castle and Gringotts Bank for spellbinding rides, is a dream come true for many.
The brand-new Island H2O Live! water park is the first of its kind in that it’s themed completely around social media. Streaming and posting your experience is all part of the fun by simply syncing up your wristband with the park’s app. More than 20 aquatic experiences, including exhilarating drop slides, a lazy river, a wave pool and a dedicated children’s area are available.
Other water park favourites include Legoland, Disney's Typhoon Lagoon & Blizzard Beach, Aquatica Orlando and Universal’s Volcano Bay, infused with a South Pacific theme and easy to spot thanks to its mighty, 200-foot-tall Krakatau volcano.
Away from theme parks, I encourage everybody - especially competitive families - to try their hand at mini golf, which is a brilliant way to spend a few hours and nothing like “crazy golf” here in the UK.
Orlando also offers many more exciting outdoor opportunities for fun. Kayaking, canoeing and boat-rides are available on numerous waterways and natural springs throughout the area with some of the best less than an hour from downtown, including Blue Spring State Park, De Leon Springs State Park, Rock Springs at Kelly Park, and Wekiwa Springs State Park.
Meanwhile, for up-high excitement with incredible views, you can’t go wrong with a zip line.
The Screamin’ Gator at Gatorland will carry you along 1,200 feet of high-flying adventure, at heights reaching 56 feet and speeds of nearly 30mph.
Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park and Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Garden’s Seminole Aerial Adventures also offer zip-lining opportunities for all ages.
For an up-high incredible view of the city, I recommend the glass capsules at the 400-foot ICON Orlando observation wheel, which is also near several great shops, restaurants, bars and galleries.
If a more sedate exploration appeals, bikes can be rented to pedal your way around downtown Orlando using Juice, the city’s bike-sharing program.
Lake Eola Park in the city centre is a great place to stop for a stroll along the water and a ride on one of the park’s signature swan-shaped paddle boats. Lake Eola also hosts the Orlando Farmers Market every Sunday.
There are so many choices when it comes to where to stay. I would advise family groups to consider renting a private villa, which will come with its own pool; options range from three-bedrooms through to 12 or more!
Staying on-site at Disney or Universal offers a host of benefits including transportation to the parks and early entrance. Some Universal Hotels include complimentary Express Passes which enable you to join the fast-pass queues for the most popular rides. This saves huge amounts of time especially during busy periods.
Alternatively, you can stay in motels, hotels and condos (apartments), many of which offer transportation to the theme parks, saving on car hire and parking charges.
Orlando is a family favourite and a fantastic choice for a multi-centre holiday, where in addition to action-packed theme park adventures, travelling beyond the main gateways and finding Florida’s hidden gems offers something for everyone.
I can’t wait to return for my seventh visit. Roll on 2023.
