Cheap Travel: More Bang For The Buck In Orlando

For many families, the "windfall" of the government tax rebate program offers a terrific opportunity to plan a vacation that puts those dollars to work.

To stretch your refund further, the Orlando/Orange County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc. has introduced special values on accommodations and attractions at VisitOrlando.com. In addition, these following tips can help families on a budget make the most of their vacation:

1. Where to Stay--In Orlando, it isn't necessary to blow the majority of your vacation budget on a nice and comfortable place to stay. Options abound, ranging from budget accommodations starting at around $50 per night to value hotels at around $80 per night to vacation homes, campgrounds and more. For less than $1,200, a family can get a Walt Disney World Resort vacation package that includes three nights at a value hotel and theme park tickets.
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2. Attractions--You can enjoy the world-class attractions in Orlando without breaking the bank. Buying tickets in advance online can save not only money but time as well. The gate admission at Universal Orlando Resort for a two-park unlimited pass is $119.28. However, if purchased online in advance of arrival, the two-park unlimited admission is only $85.95 and can be used for seven consecutive days. By buying SeaWorld Orlando tickets online, guests can take advantage of a free second day when they purchase a single-day ticket or the opportunity to purchase select adult multi-day/multi-park passes at the children's admission price. It's also important to note that for most area attractions, children under 3 are free.

3. Eating Out--Pay attention to three magic words: Kids Eat Free. Hotels with "Kids Eat Free" specials include Nickelodeon Family Suites by Holiday Inn, Orlando World Center Marriott Resort, The Hilton Orlando Resort, Royal Plaza in the Walt Disney World Resort, Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort (as part of the "Summer Splash" program), Sheraton Safari Hotel & Suites and many more.

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4. Timing Your Trip--Don't overlook non-peak seasons such as spring and fall, as they enjoy warm weather, reduced crowds and good deals.

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5. Savings Tools-Save up to $500 with an Orlando Preferred Visitor Magicard™, the year-round discount card provided by the Orlando CVB. It is valid at 97 area establishments, including everything from attractions and accommodations to restaurants and golf courses. Download the card at orlandoinfo.com/magicard or order one by calling (800) 551-0181.

There are a number of ways for families to save on a vacation to Orlando, and many of them start with a trip online at visitorlando.com.

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A few more tips..

I just stayed in Orlando this week. If you have a child with you, order combo meals. This would be meals with two meats like a 1/4 chicken and ribs or brisket. You can split up the plates amongst two people or a child and an adult.

Use your Southwest Airlines frequent flyer card to receive 20% of the price of a Seaworld ticket when you purchase at the gate.

When visiting Universal Studios, do not purchase an express pass if you are traveling with kids 12 and over. Just get on the line for "single riders" for many of the rides - single riders end up on the same line as the people who have express passes which means you get to your rides a lot faster.