Description

The main architect of Orlando’s transformation into one of the world’s busiest cities was Mickey Mouse, the cartoon creation of animated movie tycoon Walt Disney. Disney bought up land in the area, with the aim of establishing his dream theme park back in the 1960s. The Disney kingdom in Orlando features four amazing theme parks, scores of smaller attractions, hotels and accommodation facilities for thousands, hundreds of restaurants and even two cruise ships. It is not only the Disney dazzle that draws visitors to Orlando. The other highlights of the place include the Universal Studios and Sea World.

Shopping

Shopping in Orlando is an absolute pleasure. There are huge malls, massive shopping complexes and shopping outlets of every kind spread across the city. The Mall at Millennia is the place to shop, as it not only provides all the stuff that one could look for but also great ambience and a class atmosphere. VIP services such as valet parking and full service concierge are offered, as you shop in this mall's amazing specialty shops. The Florida Mall the largest shopping center in Orlando has over 8 departmental and 245 other stores. Another benefit to shopping at the Florida Mall is its location near Orlando International Airport, International Drive, Walt Disney World, Sea World and Universal Orlando Resort. Other major shopping malls are the Altamonte mall, Orlando Fashion Square mall and the Church Street Exchange. However, arguably the best shopping in all of Orlando is found on International Drive. Festival Bay at International Drive offers retail and entertainment themes that are unique to the Orlando market. Creative storefronts and lighting produce a festive ambiance for guests to enjoy.

Restaurants

Orlando has an extensive selection of extraordinary restaurants that are sure to satisfy any one's palette. From American to Italian and Asian to Japanese, there are enough restaurants in Orlando to offer a wide array of fine dining. Some of the popular restaurants in Orlando are the Vallarta Mexican grill, NBA city, Timpano Italian Chophouse, California grill, McCormick & Schick’s seafood restaurant etc.

Night Life

Even after theme parks close, Orlando keeps the action going with everything from hotel bars to swinging dance clubs. The four main areas of nighttime activity are Downtown Disney, Disney's Pleasure Island, Universal Studios City Walk, and downtown Orlando's Orange Avenue. The Social, a live music club, and Tabu, a dance club, shake up downtown Orlando and appeal to professionals, locals, and tourists alike. Many resorts and hotels boast great bars and lounges of their own and prepare to provide some great entertainment. Other hip possibilities include Houston's in Winter Park and Bahama Breeze on famed International Drive.

Activities

There are things galore for a visitor to do and activities include taking an amazing day trip exploring the wild-side of Florida. Visitors will be able to discover many new things by taking trips on river cruises, airboat rides, nature trails, wildlife parks, Indian mounds, canoe trips, historic tours, horseback riding and more. The Busch Gardens Theme Parks are famous for their unique combination of daring rides, exciting entertainment and animal habitats. The garden also features thrill rides such as the Kumba roller coaster and the new Montu, the largest inverted roller coaster in the world. It also offers a children's play area, Land of the Dragons and live entertainment on ice.

Communications

The international access code for USA is +1. The outgoing code is 011, followed by the relevant country code. Plenty of pay phones are available throughout the country. Cingular and T-Mobile are the largest mobile operators and cover the entire nation. Internet is widely available.

Contacts

Consulate in UK: United States Embassy, London, United Kingdom: +44 (0)20 7499 9000
Consulate in Canada: United States Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 238 5335
Consulate in Australia: United States Embassy, Canberra, Australia: +61 (0)2 6214 5600
Consulate in South Africa: United States Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 342 1048
UK Embassy or Consulate: British Embassy, Washington DC: +1 202 588 6500
Canadian Consulate: Canadian Embassy, Washington DC: +1 202 682 1740
Australian Consulate: Australian Embassy, Washington DC: +1 202 797 3000
South African Consulate: South African Embassy, Washington DC: +1 202 232 4400

Currency

USD

Attractions

Orlando is filled with attractions that enthrall people of all ages. The original Disney Florida theme park, the Magic Kingdom, at Lake Buena Vista is undoubtedly the biggest attraction here. The park that has been in existence since 1971 is a dream comes true for kids. Castle that stands in the centre of the park is the focal point of the park. Apart from the Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World Orlando now includes Epcot, a futuristic showcase of the world's different cultures and traditions. MGM Studios and Animal kingdom also is present here.

The other biggest attraction is the Sea World that lies between the Disney parks and downtown Orlando. The park gives an interactive look at the sea and all its facets. The park features themed animal habitats. Visitors can also hug a dolphin or kiss a killer whale here. The park also features the very popular water roller coaster thrill ride called Journey to Atlantis.

Language

English

Language Description

English is the official language of the country. Spanish is taught as the second language in most schools. French, German and Italian speaking population are also widely present.

Tipping

15% tip is expected by most services, including waiters, driver and bartenders. In the more expensive hotels a 15% charge is added onto the bill, so there is no need to tip extra. Tipping is not necessary in self catering restaurants and fact food joints.