Florida - 2 or 3 centre holiday. (Virgin Holidays?) Any recommendations?

[Portofino]

We've got friends in the US and planned to go over next year. Flights from Brussels to anywhere seem to be extortionately expensive though. I had a look at Virgin and we could basically get 3 weeks in Florida to include s/c accommodation and a car, for not much more than the flights to Austin.

So I am now thinking of suggesting to friends that instead of them flying to us, we fly to Orlando and they come to us for some of the time.

I'd like to do 3 weeks - obviously we will do Orlando and the parks - but would like to move on to the beach somewhere afterwards to recover. How long does it take to "do" Orlando? Any recommendations for accommodation, or the best beach locations? I have a dd who will be 8 next summer....

10 days in Orlando to do it comfortably. 7 IF you have to. Can't help you about beach part.

Agree you will need a minimum of 7 to 10 days to do Orlando. With regards to villas, I would recommend Loyalty Homes, a company run by an english lady which is based close to Disney. She manages many luxury properties with private swimming pools many of which also have games rooms and all are within 4 miles of Disney. Have a look at www.loyaltyusa.com/
or have a look at this villa www.ownersdirect.co.uk/usa/F1895.htm which I have just advertised on Owners Direct. If your DD is not too old for Minnie Mouse she would love the kids room

Can't help with beach recommendations but think Pagwatch is staying in Sarasota at Easter so she may be able to recommend somewhere.

Thanks! Will have a look at the links. So, allowing for travelling to Gatwick

and back (another country and all) 10 nights in Orlando, then a week (and maybe a bit) on the beach.....

Has anyone travelled with Virgin? Is it better to buy their park ticket packages/excursions when booking, or can you get a much better deal else where?

we flew virgin when we went last october and have to say I was rather underwhelmed by them Used to fly with them all the time 7 - 10 years go but they have gone downhill.

We bought tickets from Kissimmee Guest Services (KGS) which is based in Celebration. Bought tickets online and picked up at 8am on way to park on first day. Have a look at their website (sorry don't have to hand and going to bed), they have a lot of deals.
PS, I now live near LGW so if you book my villa I might do you free gatwick parking

Ooh I will have a look!