Central Florida - Close to Disney - Four Corners Area of Florida

Everyone's heard of Disney - millions travel to the central Florida area every year to enjoy the various theme parks created by the Disney empire.

The best area to stay in is south of the Disney complex along the six-lane highway called the 192. As with other areas in the US, the actual place name is Kissimmee but the downtown area of the city is many miles to the east. There is a huge choice of places to stay ranging from top quality hotels to cheap motels. But by far the best option is to rent a villa. This gives you a huge amount of space, your own private pool & costs no more than a reasonable hotel. In fact, for large families it's the best option.

There's something for everyone in the Disney area. There are four main parks - Animal Kingdom, Magic Kingdom, EPCOT & MGM Studios. There are also water parks & themed resorts. At various times of the year there are special events which certainly attract the crowds. For example, Halloween, Easter & Christmas - There's always a "Mickey's something or other" to enjoy (although at an additional cost). It's a good idea to book early (by which I mean months early!) to ensure a ticket.

Eating out - certainly an experience in the 'States. The tastes of every nation are catered for & you can easily eat your way around the world. The portions are huge & normally there are free refills for most drinks (non-alcoholic). Choose carefully though - there are good & bad. Most are part of a large chain & are normally consistent quality but check out the cars outside before you go in. Lots of shiny hire cars means popular with tourists, a few scruffy cars usually means avoid it like the plague! Certain places are best avoided - Cracker Barrel is supposedly genuine local cuisine but generally its grits & something stodgy - very bland. Also, be careful with their "wait for a table" idea - you wait in their dedicated shop whilst the restaurant is half-empty!

If you're staying in a villa the best supermarket is the huge Wal-Mart on the 27, just a couple of miles west from the Four Corners area. Everything is available although imported goods are very dear. A point to bear in mind is if you take something home to the UK & want a refund if the item breaks, take it to ASDA.

Overall, a fantastic place to spend a holiday but you'll need at least two weeks & deep pockets when you're in the theme parks. Save up your pennies & have a great holiday!

Written by Geoff Manns - Owner of Property 90311 in Encantada Resort, Florida