Fifty million people visit Central Florida each year, entranced by the fun and enjoyment that the theme parks offer. In addition to the Disney World joys, Universal, Sea World and others have created what can be a dream holiday. Both adults and children are captivated.
Even though tourists spend most of their time at the theme parks, accommodation is obviously a very important issue for them to decide on. Hotels and motels are the obvious choice and there are many of them to pick from. But a new industry has developed during the past few years that is becoming increasingly popular.
There are now literally thousands of single-family homes and condos in the Disney World and Orlando areas that are rented out by their owners on a short-term basis, just like hotel or motel rooms. So families and groups who want to enjoy more space and the comforts of home have a definite alternative.
Most of the properties are situated within just a few minutes' drive of the Disney theme parks. There is an enormous variety of property styles and sizes, ranging from two bedroom condos to six bedroom single family homes or even larger. Some communities include additional facilities such as a movie theater, a club house and a gym for those moments when Mickey isn't capturing your attention.
The vacation rental industry has grown in popularity so much that few families want to return to the restrictions of a hotel once they've sampled the extra freedom and flexibility. But like any purchase, there are hidden aspects to think about.
Helped by the communication tools of the Internet, a lot of owners and almost all of the vacation rental companies have built clever and convincing web sites with photos and summaries of why you should book with them. But they are in business to make money and you should be very clear about all the terms and conditions before you buy. For example, you should ask:
* How many nights is the minimum I can book?
* What do I have to pay you before a booking is confirmed?
* Do I pay the full amount up front and if so, how much in advance of the booking?
* Will you repay any deposit or rental payment if I decide to cancel before the booking starts?
* Does the rate you've quoted include everything - there are no extras are there?
* Will I be staying in the property that I've seen online?
* What's the earliest I can check in on the day of arrival?
* What's the latest I can check out on the day of departure?
* I want to pay by credit card - do you accept them?
* Do you require any security deposit to be held until after departure?
So the overall message is: just like making any substantial purchase, get the answers you need before you commit to a booking.
Even though tourists spend most of their time at the theme parks, accommodation is obviously a very important issue for them to decide on. Hotels and motels are the obvious choice and there are many of them to pick from. But a new industry has developed during the past few years that is becoming increasingly popular.
There are now literally thousands of single-family homes and condos in the Disney World and Orlando areas that are rented out by their owners on a short-term basis, just like hotel or motel rooms. So families and groups who want to enjoy more space and the comforts of home have a definite alternative.
Most of the properties are situated within just a few minutes' drive of the Disney theme parks. There is an enormous variety of property styles and sizes, ranging from two bedroom condos to six bedroom single family homes or even larger. Some communities include additional facilities such as a movie theater, a club house and a gym for those moments when Mickey isn't capturing your attention.
The vacation rental industry has grown in popularity so much that few families want to return to the restrictions of a hotel once they've sampled the extra freedom and flexibility. But like any purchase, there are hidden aspects to think about.
Helped by the communication tools of the Internet, a lot of owners and almost all of the vacation rental companies have built clever and convincing web sites with photos and summaries of why you should book with them. But they are in business to make money and you should be very clear about all the terms and conditions before you buy. For example, you should ask:
* How many nights is the minimum I can book?
* What do I have to pay you before a booking is confirmed?
* Do I pay the full amount up front and if so, how much in advance of the booking?
* Will you repay any deposit or rental payment if I decide to cancel before the booking starts?
* Does the rate you've quoted include everything - there are no extras are there?
* Will I be staying in the property that I've seen online?
* What's the earliest I can check in on the day of arrival?
* What's the latest I can check out on the day of departure?
* I want to pay by credit card - do you accept them?
* Do you require any security deposit to be held until after departure?
So the overall message is: just like making any substantial purchase, get the answers you need before you commit to a booking.
About the Author:
Learn the things you need to know before choosing your Orlando vacation package from an insider who owned and ran an Orlando vacation home rentals business.
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