Where should I look for a hotel in Orlando? I would like to be centrally located to the parks, outlet shopping, and Millenia mall. I was thinking the South I drive area. Am I on the right track or is there a better area that is in the middle of everything? Also, any hotel recommendations are appreciated.

We went to WDW in early May and stayed on the S. I-Drive area in a timeshare, just ajacent to the Crowne Plaza Resort. The area was very handy to most things, except Universal. The area near Universal is total gridlock with traffic on I-Drive. The S. I-Drive area was less congested and getting to WDW was a breeze.

I used "The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World". It was very helpful with all aspects of visiting WDW, Seaworld and Universal. Great info on places to stay also. I also found the various Disney websites helpful.

Good luck
MY

Anyone out there who can help? We are making the trip over Labor Day and want to get everything booked soon. Was leaning towards the Embassy Suites South. HELP!!

Thanks MY!! I'll look into your suggestions.

Dear japw82:

We were south of SeaWorld. It appeared that this area was much less crowded than north of there.

MY

I wouldn't worry about getting central between the parks and Millenia Mall. The mall is only a 10-20 minute drive, depending on traffic, and probably a one-time visit anyways.

I would recommend looking in the S. International Drive or S.R. 535 area. Getting to Disney and Sea World from either area is a breeze, and there are two outlet malls nearby (Prime Outlets and a small mall on S.R. 535). There is also an outlet mall (used to be Belz Outlet) near Millenia Mall, but it's in the middle of a major refurbishment, so most of it is closed.

As far as hotel recommendations, it would depend on what type of hotel you are looking for...