3k for trip to US

[UndertheCedartree]

I want to take my DC to the US for a special trip as they turn 13/18 this year.

I'm looking at travelling in September. On a tight budget of 3-3.5k for flights and accomodation.

I'm clueless as to where to take them. Not New York but aside to that I am open to anywhere but would need to be able to get about without a car.

I can only assume you are much wealthier than I if you find that hyperbole.

The title clearly says I have 3k for the trip. Many people posted they didn't even think I could afford a holiday to the states on that money. Many gave the spending money they thought required of which I will have nowhere near. Some even commented my trip would be miserable due to lack of money. It is within that context I can't afford 'much' . I can't afford what perhaps the average family would have for Florida. And yes, I will have to save very hard in order to get the spending money.

I have been completely upfront and I'm not sure why you are having a pop?

I've only taken my DC on holiday abroad 3 times in their life - not longer than a week at a time. Apart from that we've had a weekend at Butlins/caravan or a city 3 times too. All of which I am very grateful for and know it is more than some can ever afford.

I also know I'm so lucky to have family who can afford to treat the DC to some activities.

I have saved a long time to get the 3.5k. And I am going to really enjoy treating my DC. My DD has been desperate to go to the States for a while but knows we can't afford it. She literally will have no idea!!

That's very helpful, thank you.

And yes, we'll do that. There's a dollar tree near the hotel too which I thought could be handy.

There are also two character warehouses in the area which are outlet stores for Disney and a significantly cheaper way of getting official merchandise.
The local supermarkets also have much cheaper merchandise.

I’m in Orlando at the moment @UndertheCedartree. Just arrived last night and having one night before going off on a bit of a road trip. It’s just occurred to me that nobody has mentioned the jet lag. You’re all likely to be awake in the early hours (and ravenous!) so be prepared with breakfasty snacks.

Of course the early bird catches the theme park worm, and you can get there before the gates open to make the most of the quietest time.

Have a lovely time! Where are you going on your road trip?

And thank you for the tips! Mine aren't usually early risers so I was thinking of making the most of the jet-lag early mornings!

You don't need to explain yourself to anyone OP. The other poster was just being nasty for the sake of it. You'll have a fab time in Orlando 🙂

Thank you! I know I shouldn't let it get to me. I can't wait til my DD's birthday in March to surprise her!

Enjoy your road trip! We're getting some unusually cool weather in Florida next week - hopefully that doesn't put a damper on your plans.

Naples, Everglades then back to Orlando. Not entirely sure because of the bad weather forecast this week - we have cancellable options.

Thank you! We’re hikers and here for the wildlife mainly, so planning a shower- dodging few days with layers and changes of clothing in the car much as we would do for any British summer😂, and a spot of outlet shopping.

We were in FL this October and loved Naples. The beach was huge, wide and totally empty. We then drove down to the Keys via Alligator Alley.

@SnakesAndArrows I hope you headed south to Naples because Florida is cold today! It's bizarre to see pictures of snow on the ground in the northern part of the state - crazy! I imagine the kids that live there are loving it though.

Can you imagine?! Many wouldn't have seen deep snow like that before, I would think! My daughter's only ever seen proper snow once when she was 5 and the excitement was through the roof!

A lot of people from northern states move to Florida and other parts of the south to retire, just to get away from the winters.

Yes we’re in Naples, and it’s still pretty chilly and wet at times. We’ve hiked at all the CREW wetland locations and seen lots of wildlife - and hardly any people! Tomorrow looks pretty grim but we’ve not been too daunted - we have waterproofs… After that it looks sunny, thank goodness!