From Teresa Plowright,
Your Guide to Family Vacations.
FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now!

Florida is definitely on the map for UK visitors, thanks to family holiday mecca, Orlando, with Disney World and more. And because many UK visitors stay two weeks, it's possible to combine several days at the theme parks in (inland) Orlando with a getaway at the beaches a few hours away.

Orlando
First lesson: Disney World is gigantic, the size of Boston, with four huge theme parks, two waterparks, twenty-two resorts with sprawling grounds, Downtown Disney entertainment area, and that's not all.

Study-up before your visit (-- the hefty Unofficial Guide to Disney World is published each year--) to get the most out of your family holiday time. And read up on:

• Disney World - Overview Top Tips for Visiting Disney World
• Where to Stay at Disney World: on-property vs. off-property?

Other top draws in Orlando:

• Universal Orlando: two great theme parks and three adjacent resorts, each with great decor, and beach pool; resorts guests get Front of the Line Access on rides.
• Nickelodeon Family Suites by Holiday Inn: two water-parks plus games and entertainment by Nickelodeon. (SpongeBob, anyone?) Top property for on-site fun.
• SeaWorld Orlando marine park, plus rides; unique Discovery Cove experience

More Florida Family Holidays: Beaches!
Florida has great beach regions just over an hour from Orlando. To the east, the Space Coast has nature reserves, miles of walkable beaches, and Kennedy Space Centre; to the west, Clearwater and St. Pete have beautiful beaches too. A bit further away, unspoiled Sanibel island is famous for shelling; giant Sandestin resort combines crystalline beaches with bay-side activities.

• see overview of Florida for family holidays

Tip: Club Med Sandpiper is a Caribbean-style all-inclusive right in Florida; terrific kids programs; Baby Club Med; golf a specialty; and Orlando just two hours away.