Cheap Flights to Orlando  

Thanks to the presence of Disney World, Orlando is a pretty goofy place – America’s official “Kid’s Zone” and maybe the happiest place on Earth. Orlando’s official language is laughter and its unofficial mayor is Mickey Mouse. Of course, Disney World is not the only show in town – Orlando is home to Universal Studios and a host of other family-friendly attractions.  It’s not just the kids who love Orlando – there’s dozens of golf courses and shopping outlets to keep senior members of family happy as well. But let’s face it – people come here to have fun and Orlando provides lots of options. One area of the city that gets overlooked, though, is the downtown core where a recent renaissance has transformed it into an entertainment option. But with loads of theme parks - there’s even a Holy Land theme park that brings biblical characters to life – families usually retreat to their family-themed hotels to recoup.

Best time to visit: Spring, fall and winter.

Getting around: Most visitors rely on rental cars to get around but theme park transportation – Disney World’s is the best – is what’s recommended to get from attraction to attraction.

Our favorite hotel: There’s so many to choose from but for something different may we suggest the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel (www.loewshotels.com), which is patterned after the famed Italian town where the rich and famous park their million-dollar yachts. The Portofino is part of Universal World and a boat ferries guests between the hotel and theme park.

Our favorite restaurant: Every theme park features great dining spots, with Disney World offering some interesting choices like Chef Mickey’s Fun Time buffet. Universal offers some great choics as well, including an excellent Emeril Lagasse grill. But for our money, Antonio's - 407-363-9191 on Sand Lake Road - is an authentic Italian alternative that’s worth exploring.