This trip to Orlando was a mix of vacation and business, so we had to balance the need to work with the desire to play. We were here for 1 week and since we get to Orlando frequently, we didn't feel the usual need to do everything that is offered in the Land of the Mouse.

During the week, we wanted to be sure to take in Universal Studios, plus a full day of Disney World and its four parks. We also had time to make the trip over to Daytona Beach, which was a first for us. I thoroughly enjoyed Daytona USA, a race-themed attraction with a lot to see, do, and experience.

We stayed in a timeshare as we usually do when we vacation in Orlando. This time we were at another Beautiful Gold Crown Resort, which was very nice. We didn't do a lot of dining out this trip, although we did take advantage of the Cracker Barrel just outside of our resort property. I think they have the best breakfast around!

We also enjoyed another trip out to Fantasy of Flight, in Polk City. Approximately a 30-minute drive from Kissimmee, we were amazed at the additions since our last visit a couple of years ago.
Quick Tips:
Before we make the trek to Orlando and Central Florida, I always check Restaurant.com for dining gift certificates. For this trip, I picked up a couple for the TGIFridays on International Drive near Universal Studios. Paying for a gift certificate was a real bargain.

I also shop EntertainmentBook.com for the Darden group of restaurants (Olive Garden, Red Lobster, Bahama Breeze, and Smokey Bones). For you can buy gift cards, giving you a 10% savings.

One last comment about the weather. We always come to Florida in the winter, knowing it will be better than what we would be having back home. The week before we arrived, it had been in the 70s and 80s all week! For our arrival it was OK but a cold front was in the forecast with rain predicted almost every day. We packed a mix of spring type things (short sleeves and shorts) plus some warmer clothes like sweatshirts and jeans. I don't think that there was anything packed that didn't get worn during the week. OK, with the exception of the bathing suits. It was simply too cold to be in a pool, even it if was heated.
Best Way To Get Around:
When you fly into Orlando, many people feel that a car is not necessary. I can see why that might be, but given that we enjoy getting out of the immediate area where we're staying, we make full use of having a car. If you do rent one, be sure to shop prices. We paid total for our week with a midsize (Chrysler Sebring sedan) but saw prices as high as for the same car with other rental companies. I'm usually pretty loyal to Alamo but for this trip, Thrifty had the best deal available.

Because we were staying out a bit on Hwy 192/Irlo Bronson Highway and not on International Drive (aka I-Drive), having a car was even more essential. For folks who are in Orlando for a convention at the Orange County Convention Center, hotels all along there are convenient, and with the I-Drive Trolley, getting around is great. You may not need your own car. Keep in mind, some of those hotels may also charge a parking fee.

If you are staying at a nice resort or hotel property...or close to Disney or Universal...you may find that you have complimentary shuttle service available to you. Look into that before arriving, in case you don't need a car.