Orlando: An Ethel Travel Guide
Recommend a hotel/motel in your town/city:
Evermore Orlando, minutes from Walt Disney World, transforms the typical Orlando vacation into an extraordinary getaway. This 20-acre oasis features Orlando's only private white sand beach with an eight-acre lagoon that transports you to the Caribbean. Accommodations range from rentals (4-bedroom flats and 5- to 11-bedroom houses) to the luxe Conrad hotel. Plus, with 13 dining venues and amenities like a spa, yoga classes, evening firepits, and complimentary kayaking, it's perfect for girlfriend getaways or multigenerational trips.
Recommend a restaurant in your town/city:
Orlando’s culinary scene is on fire, thanks to Michelin-starred restaurants, food halls, cozy cafes, and mom-and-pop restaurants. Start with coffee and a guava pastry at CFS (Coffee For the Soul). Grab a casual lunch at SoDough Square or Pizza Bruno. For a spectacular dinner, make reservations for Michelin-recommended Nami — a sexy Japanese restaurant with a creative flair (think lobster donuts). End your day at the Milkhouse, an intimate food hall where you can cap off the night with dessert, coffee, snacks, or craft beer.
What’s a must-see in your town/city?
Beyond the obvious (Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld theme parks), check out Aquatica, which blends thrilling water slides and peaceful lazy rivers with educational dolphin encounters — creating perfect multigenerational fun where grandparents and kids both discover and splash together. Don’t overlook Orlando’s cultural side! Catch a Tony Award-winning production at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, and check out the Orlando Museum of Art. Explore the natural beauty of Leu Gardens, a peaceful 50-acre botanical sanctuary featuring tropical plants, scenic walking trails, and historic camellias.
What makes your town/city fun for tourists?
With its reputation as “theme park capital of the world,” Orlando appeals to all ages. With family, marvel at the unique Cirque du Soleil “Drawn to Life,” which reimagines Disney animation through breathtaking acrobatics and aerial performances. With your girlfriends, lean into more sophisticated fun — like drinks at Flûtes Champagne Bar or an intimate jazz lounge experience at Judson's Live. For authentic Orlando charm, visit downtown’s Lake Eola Park, where you can meander along the picturesque walking path and take a gentle swan boat ride around the lake’s fountain.
What should you avoid when visiting your town/city?
Trying to do too much! Orlando is spread out, especially if you’re exploring must-visit suburbs. Don’t fall into the trap of overbooking your itinerary. Pace yourself, build in time for breaks, and balance high-energy experiences (like theme parks) with relaxing escapes (like the scenic Winter Park boat tour).
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