Orlando Hotel Guide for Families

Orlando hotels are seemingly endless choices! It's great that there are so many options; you're sure to find something you like. On the other hand, choosing your Orlando hotel is that much harder when there are so many available.

When your family gets the urge to be kissed by the Florida sun, consider staying at a hotel in Orlando. Unlike a villa or condo, an Orlando hotels often come with someone to make the bed and clean the room. That frees up time for your family-time you can spend swimming, tanning and seeing the sights.

Each year, you'll find a brand new hotel being built in this expanding area.

Upgrades are ongoing; as we write this page, things are changing!

This is the fantastic "Gaylord Palms Hotel" close to Disney.

Before booking your Orlando hotel

Your choice of accommodation is very important. You won't enjoy your holiday if you hate where you're staying!

During our travels, we have found the popular hotel areas are around International drive, Lake Buena Vista, (Disney) 192 highway (Kissimmee) and the Orlando resorts of Universal.

Regardless of the method you use to choose your Orlando hotel-Internet, travel agent, a friend's recommendation-you must find out the following:

• Is the hotel family friendly? To judge, look for things like swimming pools, restaurants catering to families and programs for kids.

• Is the location of the hotel in Orlando going to work? Here, you'll want to take into account where you plan to spend your time in Orlando.

• Do the rooms fit your family? Make sure there are enough beds to comfortably sleep the whole gang. Also, ask what's in the rooms. You may be counting on a kitchenette and find yourself forced to eat out if you don't ask up front.

• What transport arrangements do you require? If you're going to be bussing, for example, you may want to choose a hotel in Orlando that is close to bus service.

• Can the hotel accommodate your special needs? Ask about anything that may not be covered on a daily basis, such as babies, disabilities access and maid service.

• Does it fit your budget? There are quality hotels in all categories (5 star, 4 star, 3star, etc.) Choose one you can afford so you won't have to face those credit card bills when you get home.

This website has more information that may be helpful when choosing your Orlando hotel, from name, price, star rating & location.

Should you stay in an Orlando resort hotel close to one of the theme parks?

The answer isn't a simple yes or no. There are pros and cons to this option. We spell it all out for you on our Disney Hotel page.

Meet the superb "Renaissance Orlando Resort" near Sea World.

This stylish resort is for those who love luxury. Sitting on 27 lush acres right across the street from Sea World, this hotel in Orlando is absolutely gorgeous.

With its 778 guest rooms that wrap around a glass atrium, this hotel provides premium accommodations for your stay at Sea World. If you want a truly magical holiday for your family, try this hotel!

Our secret weapon? Word of mouth!

The best way to locate great Orlando lodging is to talk to people who've been there. Visit travel forums like The Dibb, Virtual tourist, and the Disboards.

The forums are great tools if you want to book your accommodation with complete peace of mind. They provide up-to-date information and personal recommendations from people who have stayed in a particular Orlando hotel.

During our travels over the years to Central Florida, we have visited many hotels. They are great places to wine, dine, watch various entertainment shows and meet fantastic people.

Our family at the unbelievable 'Ice show...Gaylord Palms' Christmas 2005.

Still not sure if you want an Orlando hotel or some other type of lodging? Please take a look at other accommodation in the Sunshine state: Theme park hotels, Orlando villas, Orlando condos and Orlando motels.

You'll also find info on getting late deals and discounted accommodation.

Just like your local paperboy

When you're booking your Orlando hotel, you don't want to use old news and information. We will keep updating our site via our RSS feed. Simply click onto the RSS feed above and follow the instructions. It's an easy way to stay on top of what's happening in Orlando, free of charge.