Orlando Florida has seven distinct areas that vacationers can use as a home base for visiting the many theme parks and recreational spots in the county. Making a choice of where to stay can be quite a daunting task, so here are some tips that may help you choose the optimum lodging that will suit your vacation needs (and budget) during your stay in the world's family entertainment capital.

South of Disney World (Kissimmee area - Highway 192)

The historic town of Kissimmee has been a well-known destination for many tourists visiting Orlando. With its numerous restaurants, bed & breakfasts, vacation condos, golf courses, and family attractions, many vacationers consider this area an excellent one for finding lodging. Hotel prices here are less expensive when compared to hotels in the other areas. However, many of the structures are aging as most were built in the late 70's. Few of the hotels here are connected with national chains.

North of Disney World

Also known as the Lake Buena Vista area, this is the newest location for places to stay in Orlando County and is managed by the Walt Disney Corporation. The hotels here were built starting in the early 1990's to the present and are mostly associated with the national hotel chains. The Lake Buena Vista area hosts great shopping and dining within a few miles radius.

Disney World's Resort Properties

For Disney aficionados, the resort itself is would probably be the best option for a good hotel. By definition, it will be closest to Disney World attractions and the free shuttle service to the parks runs at least every half hour. All Disney World hotels are managed to the highest standards, so there is a high probability for an excellent stay. On the downside, these hotel rooms only allow up to four people to a single room and the cost compared to hotels outside Disney World confines can be almost double. There is always a price to be paid for location and convenience.

Universal Studios Area

While there are also some good options for lodging in the Universal Studios area, there are not nearly as many choices as other areas of Orlando County. The lack of competition results in prices that are not really that attractive.

Downtown Orlando

An Orlando vacation means visiting the theme parks and beautiful attractions that this region has to offer. Most likely, you will not enjoy the traffic hassles of long trips from downtown to the theme parks - not to mention the time that you will be wasting traveling thirty minutes or more to and from Disney World each day. There are just too many good alternatives to staying downtown.

Orlando County Convention Center Area

Only a few minutes from SeaWorld, this area can be a good choice for those who will be going primarily to that park. However, the prices here are a little more expensive while the amenities offered by the hotels are mostly geared for business travelers than for families. This area is a natural choice for those combining business with a vacation.

SeaWorld (International Drive) Area

The International Drive area near SeaWorld is our favorite area to stay in when vacationing with young children. The number of quality "villa resorts" in the area is the reason. For the same price as an upscale hotel room, you can be in a two bedroom villa with full kitchen, living room, whirlpool bath and screened-in veranda. These resorts have lakes, pools, activity centers and other amenities that children (and adults) love. You will be especially appreciative of these resorts if you have some non-park days on your itinerary.

The Greater Orlando area offers a large variety of hotel and lodging options. By reviewing the different choices described in this article, you will be well on your way to making the right decision for a great Orlando vacation!