The Magic Kingdom park is what usually springs to mind for most people when you mention Disney World (or Walt Disney World Resort, to give it its full name), probably because it was the first of the four parks to be opened (in 1971). The park does get busy, so get there early and you'll see so much more. Stop by the home of the world's most famous mouse in 'Mickey Toontown Fair' and have a look at where the big cheese actually lives. Take a thrill ride across the galaxy on 'Space Mountain', explore the ghostly happenings at the 'Haunted Mansion', or prepare to get wet with Brer Rabbit and friends on 'Splash Mountain'. Do try and catch one of the wonderful parades featuring some of your favorite Disney characters, and don't come home before you've seen the fireworks high above Cinderella Castle. It's a long day, but an absolute must!

Disney's Animal Kingdom

Disney's Animal Kingdom, opened in 1998, is the most recent addition to Walt Disney World Resort and is the largest Disney theme park in the world. Animal conservation was a subject close to Walt Disney's heart and the creators of the park have designed it around this theme, which makes the Animal Kingdom a great combination of the magic and fun of Disney and the beauty and splendor of Mother Nature. Ride 'Kilimanjaro Safaris' where the animals are almost close enough to touch. Come face to face with a magnificent troop of gorillas, or travel back in time on 'Dinosaur'. Asia is the newest area of the park where you can cool off on 'Kali River Rapids'. Make sure you get there early when the animals are at their most active and don't miss the 'Lion King Stage Show' and the highly amusing 'It's Tough To Be A Bug'.

Disney's Hollywood Studios

Take a journey through 'tinsel town', courtesy of the Disney's Hollywood Studios, where the theme is Hollywood classic movies and popular television entertainment. Battle imperial star-fighters in the 'Star Tours' motion simulator, then take your seats for the exciting live show 'Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular', Jim Henson's 'Muppet 3D Movie', and other superb live shows like 'Stunt Show'. The afternoon parade features characters from the latest animated Disney blockbuster. For lovers of roller coasters, don't miss the 'Rock 'N' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith'. The highlight for many guests is the nighttime show 'Fantasmic!', as Mickey Mouse battles evil fantasy villains with a barrage of fireworks, water and lasers.

Epcot

The Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow - known by its acronym EPCOT - was the second park to be built and opened in 1982. With its dual themes of international culture and technological innovation, EPCOT is a showcase for cutting edge technology and an eclectic mix of international entertainment and cuisine. In 'Future World', you get an enthralling look at the very latest developments in science and technology and their impact on our modern world, all presented in a fun and often interactive setting. Make sure you see 'Honey I Shrunk the Audience' - Disney's 3D magic is not to be missed! 'World Showcase', on the other hand, features the traditions and cultures of people from around the world. Eat and drink your way around the globe in a day and be sure to stay for 'Illuminations: Reflections of Earth', performed every night around the 'World Showcase Lagoon' - it's truly a breathtaking event.

Downtown Disney West Side

The 'West Side' features a huge Virgin Megastore for cheap CDs, a 20 cinema complex to catch the latest films, live music at the 'House of Blues', and numerous excellent eateries like 'Wolfgang Puck Café' and Bongo's Cuban Care'. 'Disney Quest Indoor Interactive Theme Park' is a video game fanatics dream come true, with 5 floors of high tech entertainment! The amazing 'Cirque Du Soleil', a mix of street theatre and circus artistry, is hard to describe and although it's not the cheapest ticket in town, it's worth every penny.

The Disney water parks - 'Blizzard Beach' and 'Typhoon Lagoon' - are great fun and suitable for all ages. Make sure you have sun block with you and keep re-applying it at regular intervals. In the blazing heat of the summer 2-3 hours without any shade is plenty, so don't be tempted to overdo it, especially on your first day! Remember to drink plenty of water too..

Disney's 'Blizzard Beach Water Park' is a highly unusual ski resort where the snow has melted and turned the place into a Mecca for water rides and slides - look out for the one and only 'Summit Plummet' and hang onto that swimsuit!

Disney's 'Typhoon Lagoon Water Park' is home to the biggest surf wave ever to hit Florida and is a tropical paradise full of slick flumes and giant slides like the 'Humunga Kowabunga'. Make sure you take time to snorkel 'Sharks Reef'.

Disney Quest

'Disney Quest' is an indoor interactive theme park, combining cutting-edge entertainment technologies such as virtual reality and 3-D with Disney stories and characters to create a unique experience. Climb into a real river raft, ride the rapids and avoid hungry dinosaurs in the 'Virtual Jungle Cruise'. Design your own roller coaster and then ride it on 'Cyberspace Mountain'. Explore five floors of virtual fun with over 250 attractions, rides and games.

Universal Studios

Park number one is where Hollywood, movies and television come alive in numerous rides, shows and attractions. 'Jaws' is always good value, as is the revamped 'ET'. The 'Back to the Future' ride is still one of the best simulator rides ever and 'Terminator 2:3-D' is definitely worth the wait. 'Twister' will put the wind up you and if you're a sucker for 'Lassie', head over to 'Animal Planet Live'. 'Men in Black Alien Attack' is the newest addition - how it ends depends on the amount of aliens you happen to ZAP! It's a very full day and lots of fun.

Islands Of Adventure

Park number two is an all-new theme park definitely designed for the 21st century. You'll experience some of the world's most advanced ride and show technologies on five exciting islands. 'Seuss Landing' is where you'll see The Cat in the Hat, hurtle around the 'Last Continent' on 'Dueling Dragons' and ride a monster of a water ride in 'Jurassic Park'. 'Toon Lagoon' is full of high spirited cartoon fun and 'Marvel Super Hero Island' is where you'll find 'Spider-Man' (the best ride of its kind in the world), as well as the 'Incredible Hulk Coaster' with its cheek-chattering inverted turns and loops.

City Walk

This is Universal's nighttime entertainment complex where you can enjoy a top notch dinner at 'Emerils', a cocktail at Jimmy Buffet's 'Margaritaville' or dance the night away at 'The Groove'. There's also a 20 cinema complex with stadium seating that serves wine and beer - who cares if the film's not great! Look out for top name acts at 'Hard Rock Live' and check out the infectious beat at 'Motown Café'. You have to walk through 'CityWalk' to exit the two main theme parks, so maybe take a break from the crowds and stop for dinner or a drink at the end of a very enjoyable day.

SeaWorld

SeaWorld Orlando takes families below the surface, above the waves and beyond their expectations. SeaWorld Orlando is the world's premier marine adventure park with more than 200 acres of up-close animal encounters, thrilling attractions and unforgettable performances immersing guests in the mysteries of the sea. State-of-the-art rides twist, turn, and drench guests with unprecedented thrills, while amazing animal encounters include killer whales, dolphins, sea lions, sharks and more. From a rockin' nighttime Shamu show to three new sea-themed family rides, families will enjoy new experiences that could only come from SeaWorld, where vacation adventures become lifelong memories.

Aquatica

Aquatica - a one-of-a-kind water park only SeaWorld could create - blends up-close animal experiences, waters from serene to extreme, high-speed thrills and wide, sandy beaches. Amidst lush landscape inspired by the South Sea Islands, Aquatica's signature attraction, Dolphin Plunge, sends riders in clear tubes through a crystal-blue lagoon that is home to black-and-white Commerson's dolphins. A colorful mix of racing tunnels, raft rides and rivers offer crashing surf and high-speed thrills, while pools, lagoons and lazy rivers invite guests to enjoy a slower pace. Plenty of wide, sand beaches, personal cabanas, refreshing lagoons and cool shade from towering oaks and exotic trees create the ultimate water park for guest comfort.

Discovery Cove

Discovery Cove is an all-inclusive family adventure where guests enjoy a one-of-a-kind opportunity to swim with dolphins, rays and tropical fish and hand-feed exotic birds. Guests visiting this lush oasis experience the most exciting animal encounters the world has to offer in a breathtaking setting featuring rocky lagoons, lush landscaping, white-sand beaches, coral reefs, a tropical river, and resort-style pool complete with waterfalls. Discovery Cove is an all-inclusive adventure where the culinary delights are as endless as the views. Each guest is also provided his/her own swim vest, towel, and swim gear, including a snorkel, mask, fins and Panama Jack eco-friendly sunscreen. Private lockers and dressing areas provide Crabtree & Evelyn bath products.

Wet'n Wild

Orlando's original 'Beach Within Reach' is very conveniently located on International Drive right in the heart of 'Touristville'. It's well known for some great multi-person rides where the whole family or group can splash around together. All ages are well catered for; there's a very safe water playground where toddlers can paddle and slide in complete safety. 'Der Stuka' is quite a ride, as is 'The Bomb Bay' - the names say it all! If you aren't into a daredevil descent, then head over to the aptly named 'Lazy River', the best place in town to get a tan. 'The Surge' is a great place for a family get together as is the 'Bubba Tub', and it's a lot more fun than riding on your own.

Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens Africa in Tampa is the ultimate family adventure park, featuring an unparalleled combination of animal encounters, live entertainment and world-class thrill rides. As one of the top zoos in North America, Busch Gardens brings you face-to-face with more exotic and endangered animals than any destination outside of Africa. Live shows, including the Broadway-style KaTonga - Musical Tales from the Jungle, carry you to the heart of the jungle through music and dance. And prepare yourself for heart-pounding excitement with SheiKra - America's first dive coaster. New in 2008, discover a colorful village, explore the treetops on a zipline adventure and connect up close with exotic animals in Jungala - the only jungle in the world that plays with you.

Kennedy Space Center

The home of America's space program, the Kennedy Space Center features a variety of exhibits, shows and tours which are both interesting and informative. An hour's drive from Orlando, it's very family friendly and whether you're of the Apollo generation or a Shuttle space cadet, there's plenty to enjoy. Don't miss the stunning Imax movie or the 'Spaceport USA' bus tour which gets you out to the observation gantry overlooking the biggest rockets you're ever likely to see. If you're not careful, this could be the most fun you ever had in a science lesson!

Gatorland

'Gatorland' is a reasonably priced and entertaining half day attraction that kids particularly will enjoy. This is gator capital of the world, home to over 5000 of Florida's original residents. The park is very concerned with the conservation of the Florida alligator, so fun shows like 'Jumparoo' and 'Gator Wrestling' have an educational side to them as well. A lot of the activity centers around a beautiful breeding marsh, which is also a haven for hundreds of birds - amateur ornithologists will be in their element. 'Jungle Crocs of the World' features some more fearsome imports and feeding time is not to be missed!

Daytona Beach

For something completely different, the world famous Daytona Beach is definitely worth the drive - literally! While the surf may be a little rough, you can actually enjoy this beach from the comfort of your car, since it's one of the few beaches in the world which you can drive onto and park. Take I-4 east for about 60 miles. Daytona is approximately 1 ½ hour's drive from Orlando.

Cocoa Beach

Located on Florida's Space Coast (named after the Kennedy Space Center), you'll find lots of amenities and a seemingly endless stretch of sand. Cocoa Beach is approximately one hour's drive from Orlando. Head east on Bee Line Expressway (Hwy 528).

New Smyrna Beach

One of Orlando's closet beaches, New Smyrna features a historic district, as well as shops, marinas and restaurants. New Smyrna Beach is about one hour's drive from Orlando.

St. Petersburg & Clearwater

Florida's Gulf coast beaches are where all you beach lovers will want to be! A ninety minute drive from Orlando, the towns of Clearwater and St Petersburg are on a peninsula bordered by the Gulf of Mexico to the west and Tampa Bay to the east. There are 35 miles of beautiful white-sand beaches on some 20 barrier islands. If lazing on the beach isn't for you, then why not hire a speedboat, go sailing or take a fishing trip? St Petersburg has an attractive and lively downtown area located on the waterfront, offering plenty of opportunities for shopping and dining.

Florida offers over 1,100 golf courses with endless tree-lined fairways and perfect greens. It's no wonder that Florida is the worlds number one golfing destination and home to the PGA tour. Here are just some of the many golf courses located around the villa.

• Southern Dunes Golf & Country Club - Rated among the "Top 100 Courses" by GolfWeek with 18 holes designed by Steve Smyers. (941) 421-1047

• Celebration Golf Club - Designed by Robert Trent Jones (both Sr. & Jr.), this course offers 18 holes, a driving range, and a junior course. (407) 566-GOLF

• Championsgate Golf Club - With 36 holes of chmapionship golf designed by Greg Norman, Championsgate is like no other golf club. (407) 787-GOLF
  

• Ridgewood Lakes Golf and Country Club - 18 holes with a driving range. (863) 424-8688

• Cypress Creek Country Club - Offers 18 holes designed by Lloyd Clifton and a driving range. (407) 351-2187

• Debary Golf & Country Club - Also designed by Lloyd Clifton with 18 holes and a driving range. (407) 668-2061

• Deer Island Club - Features 18 holes designed by Joe Lee and a driving range. (352) 343-7550

• Diamond Players Club Wekiva - 18 holes and a driving range. (407) 862-5116

• Eastwood Country Club - 18 holes and a driving range. (407) 281-7535

• Falcon's Fire Golf Club - Designed by Rees Jones with 18 holes and a driving range. (407) 239-5445

• Forest Lakes Golf Club - With 18 holes designed by Clifton, Ezell, & Clifton and a driving range.

• The Golden Bear Club at Keene's Point - 18 holes designed by Jack Nicklaus and a driving range. (407) 876-5775

• Grand Cypress Resort - Features a whopping 45 holes designed by Jack Nicklaus. (407) 239-4700

• Greenelefe Golf and Tennis Resort - Robert Trent Jones Sr., Ed Seay, & Ron Garl all took part in designing these 54 holes. (836) 422-7511

• Hawks Landing at Orlando World Center Marriott - 18 holes. (407) 238-8659

• Highlands Reserve Golf Course - This is not your typical Orlando, Florida golf course! Highlands Reserve sits atop one of the highest areas of Florida and offers remarkable scenery along with a course designed for hot golf. This championship Mike Dasher design gives you pine tree-lined fairways reminiscent of the Carolinas, open spacious fairways likened to the great Scottish courses, and a bit of old Florida with citrus trees along the countryside. Large, fast, undulating greens make this course challenging and fun for all levels of golfers. Conveniently located just minutes from Disney and all major attractions, Highlands Reserve Golf Club is a Central Florida favorite! (863) 420-1724

• Hunter's Creek Golf Club - A Lloyd Clifton designed 18 hole course with driving range. (407) 240-4653

• International Golf Club - 18 holes and a driving range. (407) 239-6909

• Kissimmee Bay Country Club - A Lloyd Clifton designed 18 hole course with driving range. (407) 348-4653

• Kissimmee Golf Club - 18 holes. (407) 847-2816

• Kissimmee Oaks Golf Club - 18 holes designed by Karl Litten. (407) 933-4055

• The Legacy Club at Alaqua Lakes - 18 holes with a driving range. (407) 444-9995

• Marriott's Grande Vista Resort - Home of the Nick Faldo Golf Institute with 27 holes, a 9 hole teaching course, and 35 acres of practice area. (407) 238-6800

• MetroWest Country Club - 18 holes with a driving range. (407) 299-1099

• Orange County National - Home of the Phil Ritson Golf Institute, 36 holes (with 18 more planned), putting green, and a driving range. (407) 656-2626

• Orange Lake Country Club - 54 Holes, including "The Legends" designed by Arnold Palmer. Also has 36 holes of mini-golf. (407) 239-1050

• Poinciana Golf and Racquet Resort - 18 holes with a driving range. (407) 933-5300

• Remington Golf Club - 18 holes, and was nominated for "Best New Public Course" in the U.S. (407) 344-4004

• Reunion Golf Club - Reunion’s outstanding golf is recognized as the greatest 36 holes (soon to be 54 holes) of golf in central Florida. Polish off your clubs and experience three Signature golf courses designed by some of the greatest names in golf—Tom Watson, Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus (Nicklaus course to open in 2006). These unique courses of ingenuity and distinctive beauty are guaranteed to thrill golfers time and time again. Both golf courses at Reunion were listed on Golfweek's list of "America's Top 40 New Courses for 2005." (407) 662-1000
  

• Timacuan Golf and Country Club - 18 holes with a driving range. (407) 321-0010

• Walt Disney World® Resort - Five 18 hole courses and one 9 hole course. (407) 939-1666