Local Knowledge
We have been coming to Florida for over 15 years now and would like to share some of our local knowledge to help you make the very best of your holiday and, hopefully, make it more relaxing and enjoyable.
1. If you have spent the day at any of the Disney Parks then try driving to International Drive (I-Drive), especially south of Sand Lake Rd, for dinner. Most of the better restaurants are South of Sand Lake Rd. You will also find you are traveling against the traffic and by the time you have enjoyed your dinner the drive back will be a lot quieter.
2. Shopping is a Floridian pastime and there are numerous places to indulge. The best are Point 1 at the north end of I-Drive (just follow I-Drive north until you run into it). There are hundreds of brand name, and non brand but very good, with budget prices. Reebok, Addidas and Nike heaven.
3. The best designer outlet is Premium Outlets on 417 at Lake Buena Vista. Just off I-4 by Dolly Partons Dixie Stampede. Here you will find Armani, Boss, Polo, Calvin Klein and many, many more.
4. Petrol is not as cheap as it was but is still good value. However prices vary massively from Gas station to Gas station. There can be as much as $0.50 difference between stations that are only yards apart.
5. Shop for food at the main supermarkets such as Publix and Wal-Mart. Beware the Resort Supermarkets as they are priced for tourists.
6. Alcohol is very expensive in restaurants unless is local meaning American. Go for draft beers and house wine as there is a good selection and usually very good.
7. Get to the Parks as they open. Go directly to the rear of the Park and get a Fast Pass on the way for one of the best rides. You can do two or three of the best rides before the queues start to grow.
8. Have an evening out at Universal Studios and go after 6 when the parking is free. Dont do this after a day at the parks unless you are very fit and have the stamina of a race horse.>
