accomodation for 4, c/w shuttle, 2b/room & washing machine!
 

I may be asking for too much, but here goes. Looking for a condo, apartment, resort, hotel....(what ever) that is near enough to WDW to use transport (shuttle etc.) that has 2 bedrooms, (2 bathrooms would be wonderful) and some kind of kitchenette (not cooking gourmet meals just light dinners and breakfast) and as we will have been traveling for about 10 days before and will be off to Europe after, a washing maching would be fantastic. I have looked on lots of sites, but would love a personal recommendation. Arriving 28 Dec. for 10 days. thanks in advance.

Greetings Aussie--I've stayed at Homewood Suites and Residence Inns by Marriott in several locations, and they are always a reasonable way to get 2 bedroom suites which include kitchenettes, living room area, and free breakfasts. I've not personally stayed at the ones in Orlando, but after checking their web sites, it seems they have everything you require--including perhaps a free shuttle to WDW? Try checking www.tripadvisor.com Orlando hotels section, to see travelers' ratings.
Another possibility--again, not personally tested,but recommended by many--is to go to www.vrbo.com (vacation rentals by owner) to search for Orlando homes or condos. They may be cheaper than renting a hotel suite, though would not have shuttle. Maybe nearby busses?
There are many listed: some townhouses with community pools, others private homes with their own pools, washer/dryer, etc. Here's just one example of many:

http://www.vrbo.com/7908

Happy hunting!! Sounds like you have a quite a trip planned!

thanks CaliNurse for your speedy reply. I am looking at your suggestions now. Yes it is "quite a trip". Closer to departure I was planning on a 'pre-trip' report to get some opinions. This forum has been so helpful.

You'll have an interesting and busy six months of trip research. That's half the fun!!
One of the Residence Inns ("Orlando-Sea World" branch) gets rave reviews on tripadvisor.com. The comments about other aspects of the experience are well worth reading (e.g. info on the Trolley--who knew there was a trolley in Orlando??!!)
Still amazed at price of private lodging--less than suite hotels! Perhaps "hidden costs"?? cleaning fees, etc??? Good luck, as you prepare.
Looking forward to your eventual pre-trip report. Are you crossing the USA? You'll get loads of feedback on this site, that's for sure!

my girlfriend did exactly that with her family the last time she went each boy had a room a tv and there was a pool at the condo.

there are a few ways to investigate. the standard:
www.vrbo.com
www.cyberrentals.com
www.greatrentals.com
and there are other sites i am sure.

also google search kissimmee/st. cloud (sp? mine is terrible) vacation rentals

try for vacation rental and real estate and use orlando or wdw (spell it out)

a lot of local real estate agencies that sell homes often have a vacation rental business too.

thanks, you guys are awsome. I have some great starting points now. When I do my pre-trip report where do you suggest i post it? Aus-LA- NYC -Orlando-Chicago - London -Paris-Singapore then home! Should I do each leg in seperate posts? Thanks

By "pre-trip" report, I'm guessing you mean feeback on the route, where to stay, what to see, etc??? I'd recommend posting in separate legs or segments, with the name of the city/cities in the subject line. That way, you'll get advice from Fodorite local specialsits (-: Enjoy!!!