Wondering where to stay in Orlando? Choosing your family's accommodations is the biggest decision you will have to make before traveling. NOTHING can make, or break, your vacation more thoroughly than the place your family sleeps!
There are a lot of factors involved in deciding where to stay. Here are a list of questions you need to ask yourself:
1) How many people will be traveling?
2) What is your budget for the stay?
3) What activities do you have planned for the vacation?
4) Will you be renting a car or van?
5) Do any of your guests have special needs?
6) What amenities - or lack thereof - are "deal-breakers" for you?
Wow, that's a lot of questions. We told you this was an important decision! Let's start at the top, shall we?
1) How many people will be traveling?
This is more important than you think. Many hotels will allow up to 6 people in a standard room - but those 6 people won't be happy. Even if you plan on being out of the room, at attractions, for 18 hours of every day, you will still have SIX PEOPLE trying to get showers in one tiny bathroom at night. If you have more than four in your party -- even if one is a baby -- you really need to consider a Two-Bedroom Condo. Condos and Villas usually have two full bathrooms and plenty of space - and a washer and dryer to cut down the amount of luggage you bring. For parties of four or less, you have a choice of a hotel suite or a One Bedroom Condo - depending on the amenities you require.
2) What is your budget for the stay?
This is the most important factor for most families. Visiting attractions in Orlando can be expensive, and most families try to cut corners on the lodging. DON'T. Orlando hotels tend to retail for $85-$105 per night, but you can find some great deals if you research. Find out what "rating" the hotel or resort receives before purchasing -- $69 per night might SEEM like a good deal, but not for a "1-Star Motel" in the "sticks".
3) What activities do you have planned for the vacation?
How do you plan to spend your time? Why are you vacationing in Orlando? Do you plan to spend the majority of your time basking in the sun by a pool or on the golf course? Or do you envision a vacation packed with theme parks and shopping? Remember that the resorts and hotels with the most access to theme parks tend to be the busiest, and have the most shuttles and scheduled family activities. If you want a quiet vacation in the sun, you may have to go slightly off the beaten path.
4) Will you be renting a car or van?
This is a big decision. Orlando has great public transportation, but it is not free. Lynx Bus passes go for $3.50 per person, per day, or $12.00 per person per week. Although many theme parks offer free or inexpensive shuttles from the major resorts, getting to OTHER places can really add up. Always factor in transportation costs and proximity to restaurants and attractions when deciding where to stay. Don't be afraid to ask what is provided BEFORE booking your trip.
5) Do any of your guests have special needs?
Although hotels are required to provide handicapped access, most families who require these services prefer the resorts. There are several important reasons for this. First, there are likely to be more handicapped parking spaces and more elevators. Also, the ratio of guest-to-staff is usually better at the resorts, so you will enjoy faster, more individual services. Finally, for allergy/asthma sufferers, resorts renovate more frequently, allowing for less likelyhood of old allergens or pet dander.
6) What amenities are "deal-breakers" for you?
Always find out the list of amenities and activities provided at a hotel or resort before you buy. If pools are important to you, don't go to a hotel that only has ONE. If you have children, you'll want a hotel or resort that has easy access to restaurants and daily children's activities. If you could care less because you'll NEVER be there except to sleep, a hotel stay with shuttles and free tickets may be perfect for you. For stays longer than three nights, rent a Condo with a washer and dryer so you can pack more lightly. Always, always, always ASK
We hope this guide helps you manage this important decision. Enjoy your vacation in Orlando!
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