Arriving In Florida
A selection of short notes follow on what to expect when arriving in Florida, and in particular Orlando
and the Central Florida Area. Orlando International Airport itself is new and developing fast. Be prepared for a fairly long walk, interrupted
by a short ride on a monorail to the main baggage claim and exit. The airport is well marked with signs so you
shouldn't have any trouble finding your way.
The majority of rental car desks are situated on the ground floor of the terminal building. You may have to wait in
line to receive your vehicle, but when you do, the car will be situated in the multi-story car parking lot just across
the street. This is very handy for when you return your vehicle at the end of your stay. For those visitors whose car
rental desk is not at the airport, exit on the ground floor, and wait at the relevant bus stop for the ground
transportation provided by your rental car company. When leaving, you will return your car to the same location
and catch the bus back to the airport.
There is no need to worry about maps. The ones supplied with your car, together with directions given to you by
Florida Choice, will be sufficient for you to arrive at our offices and subsequently at your holiday villa or
vacation home with ease.
Once you have collected your car, be prepared for tolls. Each of the major freeways operate on a toll basis, particularly
around Orlando. The tolls are generally less than one dollar, but you may encounter 3 separate toll booths on your
journey - depending upon which route you take.
On the driving front, it is as well to bear in mind that once on the freeway, you may be "overtaken" on either
side. All the lanes on freeways tend to move at the maximum speed, so be prepared for vehicles on either or both sides
going past you. This may take some time to get used to. Many gas stations have credit card facilities at the pumps.
Depending upon the time of day and location, some gas stations may require prepayment before you are able to pump gas.
If you arrive after office hours, you will need to collect your keys from the lock-box. You will receive directions and
details with the lockbox code on it via email or mail. Have the number ready once you arrive at the office. Once you have
opened the lock-box, remove the envelope with your details on it. Directions to the villa are included.
Milk and other essential supplies are available 24 hours per day at local stores. If you should arrive late, and the
supermarkets are closed - which is unlikely - then many gas stations have substantial grocery stores attached to them.
Many people will tell you that there are discount books available for restaurants, attractions, shopping, etc. This
is true. The Florida Choice offices contain a selection of these books, together with leaflets on many of the local
attractions. Please help yourself. We also work with a ticketing agent that will deliver attraction tickets right to
your villa! Contact our staff at the front desk for more information.
If you have any further ideas for this section of the website, please eMail us in order for us to incorporate your suggestions.
Enjoy your stay!