Travel FAQ list for Florida FL

Miami Beach

Miami Beach

Question: 21st Street, Miami Beach

Answer: Hotel Belleza on 21st Street in Miami Beach is located in the Mid-Beach area, which is a quieter section of the island compared to the bustling South Beach area. The location has both advantages and some considerations depending on what you want to do during your stay.

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Port Canaveral

Question: Orlando airport to Port Canaveral transportation

Answer: Traveling from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to the Port Canaveral cruise terminals can be challenging if you need reliable, family-friendly transportation. Based on recent experiences, booking a private transfer service is often the best choice, especially if you have kids requiring car seats.

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Orlando

Question: Magic game

Answer: Amway Center is located right in downtown Orlando, which makes pre-game food and activities really easy — everything is walkable or a very short rideshare away. Whether you want a sit-down dinner, a casual drink, or something uniquely Orlando before the stadium opens, there's plenty to explore.

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Mount Dora

Question: December Trip

Answer: Mt. Dora is a charming small town in Central Florida that tends to have a relaxed, cozy feel, especially in December when the holiday decorations start appearing. Staying at The Lakeside Inn is a great choice—its historic ambiance, lakeside views, and rocking chairs make it perfect for a leisurely, comfortable trip. For a three-night stay, even if your main goal is simply enjoying the town and walking around, the extra night gives you flexibility and time to explore without feeling rushed.

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St. Augustine

Question: All you can eat crab legs

Answer: Good question. I couldn’t find any restaurants in St. Augustine, FL that clearly offer *all-you-can-eat crab legs* on Fridays or Saturdays based on current menus and local reviews. Here’s a breakdown of what *is* available and some relevant notes, plus some suggestions for nearby or alternative seafood experiences.

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Marathon

Question: Restaurants

Answer: Staying at Grassy Flats in Marathon in March gives you access to a number of excellent local restaurants, many of which offer outdoor seating with waterfront views. March is a great time in the Keys for dining outdoors because the weather is warm but not unbearably hot, and the humidity is lower than in summer.

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West Palm Beach

Question: Nationals spring training

Answer: For Nationals spring training games in West Palm Beach, parking can get busy, especially for evening games against popular teams like the Mets. Handicapped parking is available, but spaces are limited and fill up faster than general parking.

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St. Pete Beach

Question: Day pass for Pools/Beach access

Answer: St. Pete Beach has a variety of resorts and hotels that offer beach and pool day passes, which can be a great option if you’re not staying directly on the beach or just want to enjoy a beach day without changing hotels. September is less crowded than peak summer, which can make day passes easier to obtain.

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Florida (FL)

Question: Delray or Hollywood

Answer: Both Delray Beach and Hollywood offer unique charms, so your choice really depends on what type of experience you’re looking for. Here’s a detailed comparison to help guide your decision:

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Florida (FL)

Question: Universal Studios

Answer: When visiting Universal Studios and considering the Universal Photo Pass, it’s important to understand what is included and what is not. The standard Universal Photo Pass generally covers photos taken by the official photographers at rides, character meet-and-greets, and some designated park locations. These photos are typically linked to your pass and can be downloaded or printed depending on the package you purchase.

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Orlando

Question: Macksride transportation

Answer: Macksride Transportation in Orlando is generally well-regarded for airport and cruise transfers, including trips to Port Canaveral. Many travelers use them for convenience when flying into Orlando and catching a cruise, as they offer door-to-door service and can accommodate luggage easily.

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Orlando

Question: Water Taxis at Universal

Answer: Staying at the Portofino Bay Hotel (PB) at Universal Orlando gives you convenient options to get to the theme parks, including water taxis, walking paths, and shuttle buses. The water taxis are a popular choice because they offer a scenic and direct route to Universal CityWalk and the parks.

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Longboat Key

Question: The Resort At Longboat Key Club vs. Zota Beach Resort

Answer: Choosing between The Resort at Longboat Key Club and Zota Beach Resort depends on your priorities for the spring vacation, especially with a teen in tow. Both are located on Longboat Key, offering beautiful Gulf Coast beaches, but the experience and amenities differ.

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Treasure Island

Question: Alcohol Rules

Answer: Treasure Island, Florida, is known for its wide, sandy beaches and family-friendly atmosphere. However, the city has strict regulations regarding alcohol consumption on public beaches. Open containers of alcohol are generally prohibited on public beach areas, which means enjoying a beer directly on the sand is not allowed. Enforcement can vary, and some visitors do bring coolers for private beach accommodations, but technically it is against the law.

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Orlando

Question: Drive from Polynesian to Contemporary?

Answer: Yes, it is possible to have breakfast at Chef Mickey's in the Contemporary and then leave directly for the airport, but there are a few practical details to consider to make this plan smooth.

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West Palm Beach

Question: Recommendations

Answer: Palm Beach Shores is a lovely spot for a winter getaway. February in West Palm Beach and Palm Beach typically brings mild, pleasant weather, making it one of the best times to visit. Average daytime temperatures are usually around 23–26°C (73–79°F), and evenings are cooler at 14–18°C (57–64°F). While the water may be a bit cool for some, it can still be enjoyable for beach walks, sunbathing, or water sports, especially compared to UK winter weather.

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Fort Lauderdale

Question: Fort Lauderdale (FLL) to Miami (MIA)

Answer: Traveling from Fort Lauderdale Airport (FLL) to the Miami Airport (MIA) area is very doable, and since you’re arriving late morning on a Sunday with plenty of time before check-in, you can choose based on convenience, budget, and how much you feel like navigating transit. Below is a detailed breakdown of all the realistic, up-to-date options.

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Madeira Beach

Question: Hurricane damage

Answer: Madeira Beach, like much of the Florida Gulf Coast, experienced some hurricane impacts in recent seasons, but as of now the area has largely recovered, especially in terms of accommodations and businesses catering to tourists. Most condos, hotels, and vacation rentals have reopened, and the main attractions along the beach and nearby Johns Pass Village are operational.

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Fernandina Beach

Question: Boneyard Beach vs Driftwood Beach

Answer: Boneyard Beach (at Big Talbot Island State Park) and Driftwood Beach (on Jekyll Island) are both famous for their unique coastal scenery, but they offer very different experiences in terms of landscape, accessibility, and atmosphere.

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Miami Beach

Question: Rental of chairs on Miami Beach (South beach)

Answer: On South Beach (Miami Beach), renting beach chairs and umbrellas is very easy and widely available. Miami Beach partners with licensed beach concession companies, and you’ll find rental stands all along the shoreline from South Pointe up through 23rd Street. You don’t need to book in advance — you simply walk up to any staffed stand, pay, and they will set up your chairs and umbrellas for you.

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Fort Lauderdale

Question: Yoga studios near Hotel Maren

Answer: Hotel Maren sits at the southern end of Fort Lauderdale Beach, so you’ll be within a short walk or quick rideshare of several excellent yoga studios. The area is well-known for beachfront classes, boutique studios, and fitness-centered hotels, so you’ll have plenty of options depending on the style and atmosphere you prefer.

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Key West

Question: Resort with ocean view and close to Duval

Answer: Key West offers a variety of resorts and boutique hotels that are within walking distance of Duval Street and have either ocean views or attractive pool areas. Since you enjoyed Santa Maria Suites last year, you might appreciate options that blend charm with a central location and scenic views. Traveling in May with two 20-year-olds, you may want a lively atmosphere but also relaxing spaces to unwind.

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Orlando

Question: Walk from Signia by Hilton to Astoria

Answer: The Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek and the Waldorf Astoria Orlando sit on the same connected resort property, so walking between them is very easy. The two hotels share amenities, including the pool area, transportation, and several walkways designed for guests to move back and forth.

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Fort Myers

Question: Restaurant with sea views

Answer: Visiting Fort Myers in February is perfect for enjoying pleasant weather and waterfront dining. If you’re looking for restaurants with sea or river views but want to avoid the crowds at Fort Myers Beach, there are several excellent options along the Caloosahatchee River, Estero Bay, or on nearby islands.

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Orlando

Question: SeaWorld all day dinning every 90 minutes

Answer: The SeaWorld All Day Dining Plan, which allows guests to eat every 90 minutes at participating restaurants, is designed for convenience but comes with a few considerations.

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Panama City Beach

Question: Mardi Gras

Answer: At Mardi Gras events in Panama City Beach, the rules about bringing your own alcoholic beverages vary depending on the specific location of the event. For most official Mardi Gras concerts and stages, particularly the main stage located in public parks or designated festival areas, the policy is generally strict about outside alcohol.

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Cape Coral

Question: Sea Breeze International seabim.com

Answer: Sea Breeze International, which uses the website seabim.com, is a vacation rental company operating in the Cape Coral and Fort Myers area. However, information and reviews about them are quite limited online, and there are some important considerations to keep in mind if you’re thinking of booking a property through them.

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Sanibel Island

Question: Sanibel Island - Dec 2024

Answer: Sanibel Island is a beautiful destination and a top choice for shelling, relaxing beaches, and nature-oriented activities. As of late 2024, the island has largely recovered from Hurricane Ian, though some areas may still show minor signs of repair or reconstruction. Most resorts, vacation rentals, and restaurants are fully operational, especially along the main beach areas and near Periwinkle Way.

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Miami

Question: 2h at Miami Airport between flights from Bogata to Gatwick

Answer: Connecting through Miami International Airport (MIA) from an international flight to another international flight can be tight, and a 2-hour layover is generally considered the bare minimum—especially when arriving from Latin America. Whether it works smoothly depends on your airline, whether the flights are on a single ticket, and how fast immigration moves that day.

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Marathon

Question: Crane Point or Curry Hammock

Answer: Both Crane Point and Curry Hammock are excellent nature-focused destinations in the Marathon area of the Florida Keys, but they offer different experiences depending on what you are looking for.

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Orlando

Question: International Drive and Orlando airport free shuttle

Answer: Finding a budget-friendly hotel on International Drive with a free shuttle to Orlando International Airport (MCO) can be a little tricky, as most free shuttle services are offered by mid-range or higher-end hotels. However, there are some options and workarounds to consider if you are trying to save money while staying close to I-Drive.

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Orlando

Question: Fun Suggestions for Adults going to Orlando - No Theme Park

Answer: Orlando is a fantastic hub for adults looking for a mix of outdoor activities, good food, and easy day trips to Florida’s beaches without the theme park crowds. Here’s a detailed guide for a week of fun for four adults.

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Delray Beach

Question: Beach restaurant recommendations near Delray Beach

Answer: Delray Beach has a gorgeous shoreline, but one thing to know in advance is that there are very few restaurants directly on the sand due to coastal building restrictions. However, there are several great options that are either beachfront, across the street from the ocean with clear views, or just steps from the beach with a relaxed, casual vibe — perfect for a not-fancy meal with a beautiful setting.

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Siesta Key

Question: Chair and Umbrella Rental on the Beach

Answer: Siesta Key is well known for its beautiful white sand beaches and family-friendly atmosphere, and renting beach chairs and umbrellas is quite common for visitors who don’t want to haul their own gear. You are correct that Siesta Key Beach Chairs, located just north of Beach Access 12, is one of the more established rental services. They provide setup and breakdown for the day, making it convenient if you don’t want to worry about carrying equipment.

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Florida (FL)

Question: East Coast / West Coast / Alligator Alley

Answer: Driving from Boca Raton to Cape Coral generally takes about 3.5–4 hours via I-75 (Alligator Alley), covering roughly 200 miles across southern Florida. A convenient halfway point for a lunch meet-up would be around the Fort Myers / Naples area, depending on your preferred route and pace. This allows both groups to meet without detouring too much off the main highway.

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Cocoa Beach

Question: Cocoa Beach (car-free) Recommendations

Answer: Cocoa Beach is a great place to relax after the hustle of Disney and Universal. Even without a car, you can enjoy a lot of what the area has to offer, though having a car would make it more convenient for exploring beyond the town itself. Using Uber and local shuttle services is a reasonable alternative for a short, car-free stay.

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Florida (FL)

Question: Reliant car rental

Answer: Reliant Car Rental is a smaller, less well-known car rental agency in Orlando, and experiences reported online are mixed. Some travelers have used them as a more budget-friendly alternative to the major rental companies at the airport.

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Miramar Beach

Question: Where to eat

Answer: Destin and Miramar Beach offer a fantastic variety of dining options, from fresh seafood to international cuisine, and even excellent pizza spots. Since it’s your first visit and you’re open to driving a bit, here are some top picks and local favorites for a 3-night dinner outing:

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Miami

Question: Strawberry Moon Pool Party

Answer: Happy early birthday! Strawberry Moon’s pool party in Miami is known for its upbeat music, DJ sets, and social atmosphere, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors looking for a fun poolside experience.

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Orlando

Question: Disney Cruise Line ground transportation from Hyatt Regency

Answer: When using Disney Cruise Line’s Ground Transfer from a hotel such as the Hyatt Regency Orlando to Port Canaveral, the check-in process differs slightly from using the MCO airport pick-up option. Here’s a detailed breakdown based on recent guest experiences:

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Winter Haven

Question: Shuttle from MCO to Legoland suggestions?

Answer: Traveling from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to Legoland Florida in Winter Haven is about a 45–50 minute drive under normal traffic. Since you’re looking for shuttle options rather than renting a car, there are several reliable choices depending on your group size and budget.

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Orlando

Question: Buying park passes from 3rd parties

Answer: Buying Disney park tickets from authorized 3rd-party sellers is very common, and most visitors never run into problems. However, your flexibility with making changes depends on the type of ticket you buy and the policies of the reseller you choose. Disney generally will not modify or refund 3rd-party tickets directly—but in many cases you can still make changes through the seller.

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Orlando

Question: Pool heating

Answer: In Orlando, March is generally considered the tail end of winter/early spring. Daytime temperatures typically range from the low 70s°F (21–23°C), while nights can drop into the 50s°F (10–15°C). While the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities, unheated pools can feel quite chilly, especially in the mornings or evenings.

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Orlando

Question: Wyndham resorts

Answer: Many people who attend Wyndham timeshare presentations are offered short vacation packages at very attractive rates, such as a 3-day/2-night stay. These offers can seem like a great deal, but there are often additional costs and conditions that may not be immediately obvious.

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Orlando

Question: Early to mid March crowds

Answer: Visiting Walt Disney World in early to mid-March generally means moderate crowds, but the timing of Easter this year can have a noticeable effect. Since Easter falls unusually late, most school spring breaks in the U.S. are spread throughout March rather than concentrated around Easter weekend. This can actually help keep crowds a bit more manageable in the earlier part of March compared to years when Easter is early.

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Orlando

Question: Private taxi from Orlando international to universal

Answer: If you’re traveling from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to Universal Orlando with 4 adults and 2 kids, a private taxi or car service is a convenient and comfortable option, especially if you have luggage or want a direct ride without stops.

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Florida (FL)

Question: Dream Lux Retreats?

Answer: Dream Lux Retreats is a newer vacation rental company operating in the Fort Lauderdale area with a limited number of properties. Because the company is relatively new, there are fewer reviews available, but early feedback tends to focus on the quality of the properties and the professionalism of the rental experience.

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Seagrove Beach

Question: Overnight parking

Answer: Traveling to Seagrove Beach with more vehicles than your rental allows is a common challenge, but there are several options for overnight parking in the area if you’re willing to pay.

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Florida (FL)

Question: Best options for passes to State/National Parks/Forests?

Answer: A coastal road trip from Orlando to Houston gives you access to a long stretch of the Gulf Coast with a mix of National Parks, National Forests, State Parks, wildlife refuges, and scenic recreation areas. Because each of these systems has its own admission structure, the best option depends on how many National Park Service (NPS) sites you plan to see and how many State Parks you’ll visit across Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas.

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Destin

Question: Personal beach chairs in the water

Answer: Great question — this is a pretty common concern, and there’s a good amount of nuance here. Based on Edgewater’s own policies, plus what other guests have reported, here’s a breakdown of what you *can* expect, what other people have experienced, and some considerations.

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Fort Lauderdale

Question: Stay in Fort Lauderdale or not

Answer: For a family traveling with kids and luggage, and without a rental car, staying in Fort Lauderdale for the two nights after your cruise is generally more convenient than returning to Miami. This minimizes travel time and stress, especially since the cruise terminal in Fort Lauderdale is right on the water near multiple hotel options. You’ll avoid having to transfer luggage back to Miami and then deal with traffic to the airport on your departure day.

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Orlando

Question: Polynesian Village Questions

Answer: If you already have a reservation at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and want to make special requests, there are a few ways to handle it:

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Key West

Question: Drive straight through to KW? Is there a shuttle that is hop

Answer: Driving from Miami to Key West is a beautiful journey along the Overseas Highway (US-1), covering approximately 160 miles. In May, traffic is generally moderate, and the drive usually takes about 4 to 4.5 hours without extended stops. However, if you want to enjoy the scenic views, stop at keys along the way, or take photos, it can easily take 6 hours or more.

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Orlando

Question: Early December Visit

Answer: Visiting Walt Disney World in early December can be a very pleasant experience, especially compared to the busier holiday weeks closer to Christmas. For two adults, especially Floridians familiar with the parks, this timing often provides a nice balance of manageable crowds and festive decorations.

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Key West

Question: Ugh... why is airfare sooooo high this year!

Answer: Yes, many travelers are noticing that airfare to Key West (EYW) is unusually high this year, especially from non-direct origin cities like Detroit (DTW). There are a few reasons why prices may be elevated:

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Marco Island

Question: Shelling on Marco Island

Answer: Marco Island is well-known for its beautiful beaches and shelling opportunities, especially for visitors who enjoy walking along the shore. While guided shelling tours can take you to secluded areas and nearby islands with a higher variety of shells, you can still find plenty of shells without taking a tour if you know where to go and the right time of day to visit.

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Miami

Question: Hotel by Miami Intermodal Center

Answer: The Miami Intermodal Center (MIC) is a major transportation hub connecting Miami International Airport, Metrorail, Tri-Rail, buses, and rental car facilities. While there aren’t many hotels directly inside the MIC itself, there are a few within a very short walking distance or accessible via a quick shuttle.

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Orlando

Question: Disney World

Answer: The Disney Memory Maker (unlimited photo pass) is designed to capture all your ride photos, character photos, and other professional photos taken throughout the parks. Here’s how it works and what you need to know to ensure you get all your pictures:

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Orlando

Question: Cheap hotel with shuttle near Potter parks?

Answer: Finding a budget-friendly hotel near Universal Orlando’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter with shuttle service can be challenging, especially with your criteria of under $100/night, free shuttle to the parks, and ideally airport transport. Here’s a detailed overview based on what’s currently available:

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Orlando

Question: Early Entry on check in day at WDW

Answer: At Pop Century and other Disney Resort hotels, you can take advantage of online check-in via the My Disney Experience app. This allows you to input your information, link your park tickets, and even request room details before arriving at the hotel. Once your reservation is confirmed, you can use the app to access digital room keys if you have MagicBands or the app itself.

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Key Largo

Question: Child friendly restaurants

Answer: Key Largo offers several family-friendly restaurants that are perfect for children, especially with younger kids like 4 and 1-year-olds. Many of these spots provide casual atmospheres, kid menus, and outdoor seating which is great in February’s mild weather.

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Orlando

Question: Long term parking

Answer: If you need long-term parking in the Orlando area from January 1 to March 1, there are several options depending on whether you want your car near the airport, in a secure lot, or in a residential-style storage facility. Since your car is small, you have more flexibility with rates and space.

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Key West

Question: Trip Review with Teen

Answer: Key West is an excellent destination for a vacation with a teen, offering a mix of adventure, relaxation, and unique cultural experiences. Based on this trip review, it’s clear that the combination of outdoor activities, historic sites, and casual dining made the trip enjoyable for both parent and child.

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Orlando

Question: Best way to get around Orlando

Answer: Orlando is a sprawling city, and getting around efficiently while visiting multiple theme parks requires some planning. Your transportation choice depends on convenience, cost, and flexibility. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

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Orlando

Question: 2nd attempt and what to do?

Answer: Congratulations on your wife’s recovery and your upcoming trip! Given your late arrival into Orlando (around 10pm at the hotel), you’ll want options that are convenient, quick, and accessible without a car. Both Hard Rock Hotel and Animal Kingdom Lodge (AKL) are on Disney property, so the options there are somewhat limited late at night, but there are still ways to get dinner or a light snack.

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Daytona Beach

Question: Support the locals

Answer: Daytona Beach and the surrounding areas have some great local spots where you can enjoy authentic food while supporting small businesses. Since you’ll be there for almost two weeks and are open to day trips, you’ll have plenty of options to explore beyond the main tourist areas.

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Florida (FL)

Question: Clearwater In Late March - Hurricane Damage & Dogs

Answer: Hi Jeff — great question. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how Clearwater Beach is doing post-hurricane (as of early- to mid-2025), especially around the north end, plus what to expect if you plan to bring your dog.

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Key West

Question: Higgs Beach Playground

Answer: Good question. Short answer: the Higgs Beach playground has been a bit up and down, but there is some encouraging news — mixed as it may be.

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Orlando

Question: Worst day to visit a park?

Answer: When planning a visit to Orlando’s theme parks outside of school holidays and major holidays, the busiest or “worst” day of the week often depends on both local crowd patterns and park-specific schedules. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you choose wisely:

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West Palm Beach

Question: Spring training

Answer: If you’re planning to attend spring training games at the CACTI (Central Atlantic Cactus Training Initiative) fields near West Palm Beach, staying nearby is convenient for early morning games and minimizing drive time. The area around West Palm Beach and Palm Beach Gardens offers several lodging options that are within a 10–20 minute drive of most spring training facilities.

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Daytona Beach

Question: Coffee Roasters

Answer: Daytona Beach has a growing coffee scene with several local roasters and specialty coffee shops worth checking out. These spots often focus on freshly roasted beans, unique blends, and cozy atmospheres perfect for relaxing or grabbing a quick cup before heading to the beach.

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Fort Lauderdale

Question: Best Greasy Spoon hidden Gem Breakfast near FLL Airport?

Answer: If you’re arriving on a red-eye into FLL and looking for a classic “greasy spoon” breakfast spot before heading north to Orlando, you’re in luck — Broward County and the I-95/I-75 corridor have some excellent local diners that offer hearty breakfasts and friendly service.

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Indian Rocks Beach

Question: Restaurants

Answer: Good question! Yes — there are quite a few restaurants open in Indian Rocks Beach, Florida, depending on what time of day you're asking about. Here are some options + what to expect:

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Key West

Question: Sandbar trip worth it?

Answer: Taking a sandbar excursion in Key West, such as the one near Jewfish Key, can be a very enjoyable experience, especially if you’re looking for a mix of relaxation, sightseeing, and unique water experiences. These trips typically combine cruising through the shallow, crystal-clear waters of the Keys, stopping at sandbars to swim, snorkel, or just hang out, and sometimes include additional activities like spotting dolphins or enjoying drinks on the water.

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Perdido Key

Question: Extra Parking near Ocean Breeze W/Perdido Key

Answer: Perdido Key, particularly the Ocean Breeze West area, has limited parking for condo complexes, and it is not uncommon for some rentals to allow only one vehicle per unit. This can be frustrating, especially for short stays with multiple vehicles. Since your stay is only for a few days, there are a few strategies you can consider for additional parking.

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Florida (FL)

Question: Hollywood hotel help

Answer: Hollywood Beach is a great place to stay if you want to be close to the Broadwalk, the ocean, and all the dining and entertainment options around Margaritaville. If you’re specifically looking for suite-style accommodations with a pool and walkable access to Margaritaville, you have several options. Below is a detailed breakdown of the two hotels you mentioned plus other well-located alternatives.

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Key West

Question: La Te Da ?

Answer: La Te Da in Key West is a well-known restaurant and cabaret that offers a charming and upscale dining experience. Yes, you can request outdoor seating here, and many guests enjoy dining on their patio, which provides a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere, perfect for people-watching or enjoying the evening breeze. It’s advisable to make your outdoor seating request when you make a reservation, as it can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season.

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Orlando

Question: Booking LLs in advance - timing

Answer: When booking Lightning Lane (LL) selections at Walt Disney World under the current system, there are a few key points to understand about timing and modifying your selections, especially for late arrivals.

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Destin

Question: Best Happy Hour Recommendations

Answer: Destin, Florida, is known for its stunning white-sand beaches and vibrant waterfront dining scene. If you’re looking for the best happy hour experiences, especially near the Gulf, there are several options that combine great drinks, fresh seafood, and beautiful sunset views.

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Florida (FL)

Question: Alligators

Answer: Not a silly question at all — it’s wise to consider wildlife when visiting Florida! Here’s a detailed explanation about alligators, crocodiles, and ocean safety in the areas you plan to visit.

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Marathon

Question: Noseeums

Answer: Noseeums, also known as biting midges, are very small insects common in the Florida Keys, particularly in areas like Marathon. They are notorious for leaving multiple itchy bites, often in clusters, and can be quite bothersome for those sensitive to insect bites.

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Florida Keys

Question: Key Largo lodging - three nights late April

Answer: Key Largo is a great stopover for a few nights on a Miami to Key West trip, especially if you want water activities and a relaxing atmosphere. For late April, the weather is typically warm and sunny, ideal for pool and beach activities.

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Davenport

Question: Lake Davenport - Fishing & Boat Rental?

Answer: Lake Davenport, located in Davenport, Central Florida, is a popular spot for bass fishing and other freshwater angling activities. The lake is surrounded by residential areas and some public access points, making it suitable for both shore and boat fishing, although shore access can be limited in certain areas.

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Orlando

Question: Orlando hotels

Answer: Finding an Orlando hotel that balances affordability, safety, and a large pool can be challenging, but there are several options that meet your criteria of under $130/night, with a pool, and basic in-room amenities like a microwave and small refrigerator. Most of these hotels are family-friendly and located near International Drive or the theme park areas, which makes access to attractions convenient.

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Orlando

Question: The grove resort and waterpark in Kissimmee

Answer: The Grove Resort and Waterpark in Kissimmee does charge for parking. The resort provides self-parking for guests, and the rates are typically per night rather than per week. Based on recent information, the standard self-parking fee is around $20 per night for resort guests. This would mean that for a week-long stay, you could expect to pay approximately $140 in total for parking.

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Orlando

Question: Fox rental car?

Answer: Fox Rent A Car is known for offering significantly lower rates than major rental companies, which is why the quote you’re seeing is much cheaper than competitors. While many travelers have successfully used Fox and found it to be legitimate, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.

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St. Petersburg

Question: Planning our 2nd trip to St. Petersburg and would like help

Answer: St. Petersburg is a vibrant city with a lot to offer, and since you’ve already hit some of the main museums and Clearwater Beach on your first trip, your plan to explore different attractions is a great idea. Staying at the Inn on Third without a car is very doable because downtown St. Pete is quite walkable, and the SunRunner trolley or local buses can help reach further destinations.

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Longboat Key

Question: St Regis hotel Riva Restaurant

Answer: Riva Restaurant at the St. Regis in Longboat Key is an upscale dining option known for its coastal cuisine and elegant beachfront setting. While menus can change seasonally, here’s an overview based on recent guest experiences and the general style of the restaurant.

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Florida Keys

Question: Isla Bella or Tranquility Bay

Answer: For a romantic anniversary weekend in the Florida Keys, both Isla Bella Resort (in Marathon) and Tranquility Bay Resort (in Marathon) are excellent options, but they cater slightly differently depending on the experience you want.

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Miami Beach

Question: Construction noise at Kimpton Surfcomber & nearby buildings

Answer: Good question. Short answer: yes, there have been several recent guest reports of construction- or mechanical-style noise at the Kimpton Surfcomber, plus some complaints about the Riu Plaza — so it’s worth factoring into your decision. Here’s a detailed breakdown based on recent reviews, plus things to watch for and possible mitigations.

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Panama City Beach

Question: How busy at Beach Access 49 along Oleander?

Answer: Beach Access 49 along Oleander Drive in Panama City Beach is a fairly popular spot, especially during peak summer months like late July. The area is more residential compared to the main public beaches, so it tends to attract families staying in nearby rentals rather than large crowds from hotels or tourist hotspots.

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Miami

Question: Enterprise car rental and Port Miami

Answer: Dropping off a rental car at Enterprise and getting to Port Miami for your Royal Caribbean cruise is a common question, and it’s important to plan ahead because Enterprise locations generally do not provide direct shuttles to the port.

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Miami

Question: Hotel before our cruise

Answer: Great question — staying near PortMiami the night before your cruise is a smart move, and there are several hotels that are very convenient, depending on your budget, how much time you want to spend in Miami, and whether you prefer easy access or more of a “crash pad”.

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Fort Lauderdale

Question: Marriott Harbor Beach construction?

Answer: Good question. Short answer: yes — there *has* been construction/renovation happening at the Marriott Harbor Beach, but the major renovation work is mostly complete as of early-2025. Whether or not you’ll hear disruptive noise during your stay in May depends a lot on where your room is, how sensitive you are to daytime noise, and exactly which parts of the property were being worked on most recently.

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Florida (FL)

Question: Brightline

Answer: Brightline is Florida’s higher-speed intercity rail service, currently running between Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, and eventually Orlando. It is generally considered more modern and comfortable than Amtrak for similar routes, especially in South Florida.

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Orlando

Question: Thrifty (Dollar) Car Rental Experience MCO

Answer: Thanks for sharing your experience; this is unfortunately a fairly common issue with some rental companies. It’s a good reminder to be vigilant at the rental desk, especially when declining optional insurance products.

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Miami

Question: Walkable Neighborhood

Answer: For a mother-daughter trip in Miami with a focus on walkable streets, cafés, shops, artisan markets, antiques, and architecture, you have several neighborhoods that would suit your interests perfectly. Late February to early March is a great time to visit as the weather is warm but not oppressively hot, and many outdoor markets and events are in full swing.

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Key West

Question: Stock Island…is it worth a trip from KW

Answer: Stock Island offers a distinctly different vibe from Key West’s bustling Old Town. While it is close to Key West, it’s more laid-back, less touristy, and has a local, working-island feel. The area is known for marinas, fishing operations, artist studios, and a few standout restaurants like Hogfish Grill, which is popular for its fresh seafood and casual waterfront setting.

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