Orlando: More than Just Mickey Mouse & Sunshine

A guide to the lesser-known side of Florida’s theme park Mecca

If you thought Orlando was all family holidays, Disney characters and roller coasters, think again. Though a fantastic destination for all those things, Orlando is also a superb place for a little rest and relaxation.

A shopping and spa jaunt is something every woman - and many men - dream about. Add to that, tons of sun, fly-drive deals that will have you grinning, and great places to eat, drink and sleep – well, what are you still reading this for?

Sure, the exchange rate is nothing to write home about at the moment – but canny savings on travel insurance, knowing where to buy your holiday cash, and booking a bargain hotel are all great ways to save on your trip.

Monster Malls

When you think of shopping in Florida, the word ‘mall’ immediately springs to mind – and you can fill a whole day in just one.

The Mall at Millenia has a huge array of shops to suit every budget. Buy some fashion bargains in Forever 21, soak up the American departmental favourites Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s (where you can get an 11 per cent discount for showing your passport) and ogle the delights in Dior, Gucci and Tiffany & Co, to name just a few.

Village People

If you prefer outlet villages to indoor malls, head to Prime Outlets where you can bag a good deal, providing you’re not too picky. Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5th store sells designer names at everyday prices. It’s a great place to visit for the likes of Nike, Guess and Juicy Couture, too.

For a similar experience with bigger brands at affordable prices, head to Premium Outlets where you can wander around Fendi, Georgio Armani, Miss Sixty, Diesel and Burberry to your heart’s content.

However, Winter Park is the place to be if you prefer pounding boutique-filled streets or if you love sipping cocktails in cafes. Bargains are plentiful, stores regularly have fantastic sales, and the service is always second to none.

With all those irresistible deals, it’ll be tough not to splash out, so check your travel insurance to make sure you’re covered for all those extra valuables you’re sure to be lugging home.

Relax and Unwind

Once you’ve worn yourself out spending all that hard-earned cash, splash a little more on some indulgent treatments. For feet that have shopped ‘til they dropped, try Shou’ture for an in-store pedicure. Set in Winter Park, you can have your toes painted in between shopping for shoes – the perfect pick me up!

For more relaxation, many of the best spas can be found nestling in the hotels. Try Orlando’s largest spa at the Ritz-Carlton or opt for an Asian-inspired treat at the Mandara Spa at the Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel. Both are truly delightful.

Wine and Dine

And finally, for fabulous food, wine and good times, be sure to visit Boheme in the downtown area and Narcoossee’s and Jellyrolls in Walt Disney World.

Boheme offers a great selection of cocktails, plus an amazing piano (complete with player) that has four extra black keys –one of only two in the world.

Narcoossee’s food is simply to die for, and as for Jellyrolls, well, it’s the best adult entertainment to be found in Disney. A couple of guys, a couple of pianos, several beers and oodles of requests – you’ll be singing your heart out all night long.

Read more about travel insurance on http://www.confused.com/travel-insurance

Article Author:
Russell O Sullivan