Orlando Disney and Clearwater holiday - ideas and help needed

[orangeplum]

We have never been to Orlando/Disney and am not sure where to start in booking a holiday. We are 2 adults and 2 teens 15 and 13.

We are thinking of doing 7 nights in Orlando - Disney/Universal or similar and then 7 nights relaxing in Clearwater. Looking to go mid July and I know this is quite a late booking in comparison to a lot of,people early booking.

What is the best way to book such a holiday? Should we stay at Disney or nearby? Where is the best place to buy tickets? Any other advice?

Thanks so much.

Yes, it's always a shame when people ignore the questions asked by the op and post their own holiday preferences.

We did our 7th Florida holiday last year. We did 2 weeks in Orlando and a week at Clearwater beach, this was in July/aug. We had an amazing time, I think each time we go it's the best one yet. Spending a week at the beach was just amazing after Orlando. I love it there but you are driving alot so to have a beach holiday straight after is perfect. We always stay in a villa, hire a car and do our own thing. Always get tickets for Universal before we go, usually through Travel Republic. Last year we did book one night at a resort hotel to get 2 days express passes, so worth it. On the other days we went to the parks, we went very early or in the evening. That said, we don't spend all our time at the parks, there is sooo much to do in Orlando. Gatorland, Boggy Creek airboats and Citrus monster truck safari all fab days/half days out. Plus the shopping, which is a little less fun with the rubbish exchange rate but still mega bargains to be had. We never, ever cook on holiday, apart from the occasional breakfast before heading out early. We eat out or get take away, I love it!
In Clearwater we stayed in a 'cottage' 2 mins walk from the beach and the main shopping/eating areas. Again, so much to do in that area. We went kayaking in Sarasota, but otherwise spent our time in Clearwater.
Use Dial a Flight for flights and car hire, they really look after you and listen to what you want.
Going in July/aug was hot but you get afternoon showers to break up the heat and it was absolutely fine.
Enjoy!