Orlando is known worldwide as the ultimate vacation family vacation destination. Between the theme parks, attractions, close beaches, and exotic endeavors, there is always plenty for the vacationer to do. As you make your vacation plans to Orlando, keep these 4 top tips in mind so your Orlando vacation rental is an enhancement to your vacation!

Tip #1: Know the distance to your planned destinations and plan accordingly

Always map out the address of your rental home and the proximity to the places you plan to visit. Don’t rely solely on the online quoted times of 20-30 minute drive or short walking distance. One person’s short walking distance may end up being a 2 to 3 mile hike in Orlando’s 90 degree heat. After you have mapped out your home’s distance from your planned excursions, be sure to make adequate transportation plans.

Tip #2: Be aware of the amenities you are getting  & paying for.

Cross compare your desired amenities between several properties you are considering. Check the rates for the amenities and select the house that gives you the best deal for your budget! Ensure that all costs, deposits and fees are upfront, documented and understood.

Tip #3: Make sure your vacation rental fits your needs!

Check the dimensions of your rental property and ensure it will be large enough for your vacationing party. Many homes have sofa beds in addition to the multiple bedrooms to accommodate larger parties on vacation.

Check to see if the home is one story or two stories.  This can be a major comfort factor depending on your taste and if you have children in your party.

If you have babies in your party, check to see if the vacation rental home has baby items included in the deal.  Many homes include strollers, cribs, and high chairs to make your visit more comfortable.  If there is a pool in the home, check to see if there is a child safety gate!

Tip #4: Read online reviews from past occupants

Always use the internet to find past testimonials from the property you are considering. This will give you an unbiased first hand review of the properties you are considering and an idea of what to expect when you arrive.  You can also see what rating the most recent guests gave the home.  This is a great way to be proactive when researching the property you plan to lease!

Search for your perfect vacation rental using this search box below:

Orlando, the city beautiful, is truly a little island to itself.  The weather is tropical nearly year round (9+months of the year) and the size of the city is just right for relaxation.  The city is segregated into several smaller cities so you can have a truly cultural experience in this ever expanding city.

The beaches are very close to Orlando.  Daytona is about an hour’s drive while New Smyrna Beach and Cocoa Beach are only a short 45 minute  drive away.  Just when you get tired of the city, you can go to the beach for a quick getaway.

The rainy season is typically May though November.  This normally means it will rain daily for a short duration every day during this time period.  This isn’t set in stone and lately it only rains every few days.

The smaller cities around Orlando have cultural events that add flair Orlando.  Maitland, Winter Park, Mount Dora, and Daytona are just a few cities that have festivals every year that bring millions of visitors to the city.  These festivals give you the ability to see the locals in their element as they share the festival experience with tourists.

Lastly, the theme parks in Orlando bring millions of tourists yearly.  The theme parks are located closer to Kissimmee so they don’t really affect the bulk of local traffic that much.  If you are a tourist in Orlando, try to venture out and see the city of Orlando.  You are almost guaranteed beautiful balmy weather so bring some shorts and don’t forget your sun screen!

Now that you have a few facts about Orlando, start your search for your Orlando vacation rental home using the search box below:

Planning your trip to Orlando can be confusing if you have never been to this city before.  Most travel web sites do not give you specific details regarding the city when you place your vacation rental reservation.  In this article, I will give you two  top secrets regarding Orlando vacation house rentals and how they may affect your upcoming trip.

Secret One:  Many Orlando vacation rental homes are not located in Orlando!

Most of the vacation rental homes are located outside of the city of Orlando.  Since the theme parks and attractions are located on near the outskirts of the city’s border, most of the vacation rental homes are located in Kissimmee, Davenport, Clermont, Ocoee, or Apopka.  This may affect your trip because of the travel distance to the theme parks, attractions, and airport.  It is imperative that you get the exact address and map out your travel prior to your arrival.

Secret Two:  Check the fine print for fees prior to signing the contract!

Your rental house may give you a fantastic rate regarding your upcoming stay.  Always check the fine print for fees that may come after your stay.  Many homes charge a fee per night for using the heated pool during the winter months.  Other areas where fees may be charged: cleaning, hot tub usage, credit card processing, cancellation, barbecue grill usage, etc.  Verify the amenities you will use and calculate accordingly.  A better option is to select a rental that includes the usage of these items in their advertised rate so there are no surprises!

Knowing these two huge secrets can save you time and money as you prepare for your upcoming vacation to Orlando.

Start your search for your Orlando vacation rental using the search box below.  Be sure to check for any un-discussed fees regarding your rental prior to reserving your home!