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Villas |
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Planning, planning, planning...did we mention planning? |
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The very first thing you should understand about Florida is that you cannot see everything in one trip. There is so much to do and see, and its very important to make sure you have a plan to ensure that everyone does something fun, while still doing it safely and stress-free. Here's a quick checklist of the things you want to think about when planning your trip: When to go: The difference between a peak season and a non-peak season can mean the world to your vacation. During peak season times, lines will be longer, prices may vary, and Florida's best attractions can get very crowded. Many people enjoy Florida during the summer and holiday months. During non-peak months, all attractions may not be open, or the weather may not be ideal. Be sure to choose the time of the year that is right for your party. Where to go: Our homes are central to all of Florida's best attractions and activities. If you know which of these exciting experiences your party will be looking for, our experienced staff can help you find the villa that is just right for you and your party. Florida has everything to offer from historic St Augustine to the Walt Disney World Resort ©, so start planning your unforgettable Florida vacation by reserving a villa close to your favorite hotspots. How to go: Central Florida is the most visited locale on the planet. Thousands of folks stream in everyday by plane, train, and autmobile. How you get can make a big difference in the quality of your experience, By far the most popular mode of travel is by plane. Most major airlines will run a non-stop flight directly into Florida's major cities. Not all airlines may be equal, though. Book your flight as far in advance as possible for a better price, Booking 'red-eye' flights that depart early in the morning or late in the evening can offer you additional savings. Also, it may be worth driving the distance to another airport, as the rates from larger metropolitan facilities tend to be a little higher. Should you decide to go by automobile, make sure that you plan your gas stops away from major cities and rest stops. Gas prices drop the farther away you get from civilization, but don't go too far off the beaten path, or you run the risk of getting lost in a foreign state. A good way to avoid this is to map your route before you leave using an online map service, or even a GPS system when available. If there are going to be children accompanying you on the drive, be sure to bring multiple modes of entertainment for them. Remember, there is no where to for any of you to run when you're inside the car. Last, but certainly not least, is a train service. There are a couple of auto-trains that run into Florida, although the trip can be a bit more expensive than airfare. This option is ideal for those who prefer not to fly, and want to avoid the long hours of driving and ever rising cost of gasoline. A train ride does offer a bit more comfortability than an airline or your vehicle. You will, however, always pay for the conveniences of comforts. Where to stay:While most of the planning for you Florida vacation can require a lot of homework, the answer to this question is fairly easy to find. The cramped, overpriced hotels of Florida are a constant pitfall to visitors. Why spend more money to live in less space? By renting a villa for your party, you save money on the accomodations, and you do not have the expense of paying to eat outside of your rental villa every night. All of our villas come with heated pools, and many also have spa's available. Get more for less. Click here to reserve your villa today! |
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Pinching pennies while being nickeled and dimed |
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Florida is a tourist locale. As such, you will have to pay more for each drink, tickets, public transportation, and of course, souvenirs. All purchases you make will be taxed. It will seem like everywhere you turn, a man in a bright shirt will holding out a bobble to you with a big price tag attached. The situation is not without hope. There are many ways to save money while vacationing here. While you are going to have fun, remember that those little things can build up over time, so choose beforehand the things that will be important to your party. Make some simple financial guidelines, and stick to them. Your money will go a lot farther if you decide how to spend it before you're facing your millionth knock-off mouse hat. |
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Reserve your spot (and don't take no for an answer) |
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For every reservation you try to make, there are probably hundreds of other people trying to make one for the same day. Advance planning can cut down the hassle a bit, but remember to keep your party flexible to schedule changes. If want to get into that exclusive restaurant on Disney property, you're going to have to make your schedule match theirs. When you call, and they say no, ask them when the next reservation is available. Don't be afraid to haggle. With a little comprimise, and some forward planning, you can find the time to get into the most popular locales. |
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Getting around without going in circles |
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Transportation is often a large question visitors to the Sunshine state are concerned with, and for good reason. Larger rental vehicles may be ideal for carrying many passengers, but the demands on your budget for gas can be higher too. Minivans have long been a favorite for rentals here. They come air conditioned, can seat up to 8 passengers comfortably, and have very reasonable gas mileage. There public modes of transportation, of course. Some communities offer limited shuttle services from your villa to the major attractions for a nominal fee. Once you're at your chosen destination, use the shuttle and bus systems to travel from one place to another. It will make you travel time longer, but it serves as a nice break to the long days of walking and saves you the expense of putting gas in a rental vehicle. Of course, when you're in the parks you will have to go on foot. Bring comfortable shoes for walking, sunscreen, and some water. Buying refreshments in the parks can get expensive, so bring as many beverages as your party can comfortably carry. While some theme parks, attractions, and locations may offer lockers to store the things you don't want to lug around, some do not. Always plan to have to carry what you bring. All attractions have maps and summaries near the entrances. Take advantage of this, and review what each has to offer before you start to explore. It will save you time getting where you want to go. Make sure you plan breaks into your day for resting and eating. Its hot in Florida, often in the colder months too. Working yourself or anyone else too hard can bring unpleasant and even dangerous consequences. Take it easy, take it slow, have a plan. |
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Cuisine costs that won't spoil your appettite |
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Everyone has to eat. You can't avoid it, even when the price tags on your meals rise. Keep the costs down by eating in instead of out. This is easy to do in rental home. All of our homes come with a fully stocked kitchen area. Chances are you are going to eat out at some point during your meal. Plan these special meals in advance, and leave plenty and money on those few out-to-dinner occasions. This will allow you to have some memorable meals on your vacation without spending too much time or money. |
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Riding the rides at royal rates |
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There are three times when you are going to need to purchase/acquire tickets on your Florida vacation: admission, speed passes, and services. Ticket Momma Info here. |
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Making sure there is something for everyone |
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There so many different exciting attractions in the Sunshine State that there is more than enough to entertain anyone in your party. When you plan your vacation, make sure you leave something for everyone. While you can visit the Magic Kingdom for the children during the day, Pleasure Island can appeal to an adult crowd in the nighttime hours. |
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Staying flexible without bending over backwards |
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Keeping things flexible on your vacation is a must. The easiest way to maintain a convenient and flexible schedule is keep a central location to all of Florida's most desirable locations. All of our rental villas are within driving distance, and near major roadways to keep your travel time minimal. |
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Saving on souvenirs |
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Ticket Momma Info. |
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