Florida Holidays 2026: Our Personal Holiday Advisor's Guide to Epic Universe, Disney World & Orlando Villas

Carly Faghy • July 13, 2026

Planning a Florida holiday? Our Personal Holiday Advisor (part of our sister company Personal Holiday Advisors) Hayley Mann, has just returned from an educational trip with our trusted partner, Ocean Florida, bringing back plenty of first-hand tips, recommendations and inspiration to help customers plan their perfect Orlando adventure.

Over seven action-packed days, Hayley explored some of Florida's biggest attractions, toured a selection of luxury Orlando villas and family-friendly resorts, and even discovered a completely different side to the Sunshine State beyond the famous theme parks.


If you're wondering what's new in Orlando, where to stay or whether Epic Universe really lives up to the hype, here's what Hayley discovered.

Travel Guide

Best Time to Visit: December - May

Average Temperatures: 22°c

Average Flight Time: 9 Hours

Time Difference: -5 hours

Hayley petting How to Train Your Dragon's Toothless

Is Epic Universe Worth Visiting?


In one word... absolutely!

One of the biggest highlights of Hayley's trip was visiting Universal's brand-new Epic Universe, and thanks to a VIP Guide, she experienced the park in the best possible way.


Skipping the queues meant more time enjoying the attractions, with the opportunity to ride favourites more than once. The VIP experience also included reserved lunch seating, expert guidance throughout the day and thoughtful touches such as regular water stops to keep everyone refreshed in the Florida sunshine.

Hayley says that if your budget allows and you want to experience as much as possible in a single day, a VIP Tour is well worth considering.


Alongside Epic Universe, the itinerary included some of Orlando's must-visit attractions, including TRON Lightcycle / Run at Magic Kingdom, Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, Super Nintendo World, unforgettable character meet-and-greets with Toothless and Olaf, and the spectacular evening fireworks over Cinderella Castle.



For anyone planning an Orlando holiday in 2026, these experiences should definitely be on your list.

Group of smiling people taking a selfie at an outdoor amusement park with a Ferris wheel behind them
Hayley enjoying hersef at Westgate River Ranch.

There's More to Florida Than Theme Parks


While Orlando is famous for its incredible attractions, Hayley also discovered a different side to Florida during a visit to Westgate River Ranch. Set amongst beautiful countryside, the resort offers everything from traditional camping to luxury glamping in stylish teepees and covered wagons, with views across open landscapes where horses, buffalo and even the occasional alligator can be spotted.


The group enjoyed an exhilarating airboat ride before spending Saturday evening at the ranch's famous rodeo. Full of American tradition, family entertainment and plenty of atmosphere, it was a fantastic reminder that a Florida holiday can offer so much more than rollercoasters.


If you're looking to combine a few days of adventure with some time away from the parks, it's well worth adding to your itinerary.

Where to Stay in Orlando


Choosing the right accommodation can make all the difference to your Florida holiday, and one of the main aims of the trip was to experience exactly what Ocean Florida offers its customers. Hayley toured a wide selection of hotels, resorts and luxury Orlando villas, giving her first-hand knowledge of the accommodation available for families, couples and larger groups.


Holiday Inn Club Vacations at Orange Lake Resort stood out thanks to its huge range of facilities, including multiple swimming pools, restaurants, shops and spacious two-bedroom villas, making it a fantastic choice for families looking for plenty to do without leaving the resort. The group also spent time exploring the picturesque town of Celebration before checking into spectacular villas at Champions Gate Resort. With private pools, games rooms, cinema rooms and themed children's bedrooms inspired by Disney, Harry Potter, Toy Story and Star Wars, these villas offer families plenty of space to relax after busy park days.

Hayley also visited several of Ocean Florida's most popular villa communities, including Champions Gate, Windsor Island, High Grove, Encore Resort, Reunion Resort and the brand-new Doppio Westside.


The standout properties at Reunion Resort combined luxury with fun. Think immersive cinema rooms, beautifully designed living spaces and themed bedrooms that transport children straight into their favourite films. As Hayley put it, "I can't count how many 'wows' were said!"



For families looking for extra space, privacy and fantastic value, it's easy to see why Orlando villas continue to be one of the most popular accommodation choices.

Holiday Inn Club Vacations at Orange Lake Resort

Things to Do in Orlando Beyond the Theme Parks


After busy days exploring the parks, Orlando offers plenty of entertainment away from the rides.


One of Hayley's favourite evenings was spent at Disney Springs, where live music, unique shops and fantastic restaurants create a lively atmosphere long after the parks have closed.

A visit to Cirque du Soleil's Drawn to Life was a real highlight, while dinner at Chef Art Smith's Homecomin' rounded off the perfect evening.

The group also visited ICON Park, exploring Madame Tussauds Orlando and SEA LIFE Orlando before ending the day with a comedy magic dinner show.

These attractions are ideal for anyone looking to add a little variety to their Orlando itinerary.

Shopping in Orlando


No Florida holiday is complete without a little shopping!

Before flying home, Hayley visited The Mall at Millenia, where Ocean Florida guests receive some fantastic added extras, including a $20 shopping voucher, exclusive discount offers, lunch savings and a complimentary tote bag.

Home to everything from luxury designer brands to popular high street favourites, it's easy to see why a few extra purchases found their way into everyone's suitcases.

Two people holding pink shopping bags outdoors

Hayley's Top Tips for Planning a Florida Holiday


After seven unforgettable days exploring Orlando and beyond, Hayley returned with plenty of first-hand advice for future travellers.

Her top recommendations include:


  • Consider a VIP Tour if visiting Epic Universe, especially if you're travelling during busy periods.
  • Don't overlook Orlando's villas, they're ideal for families and groups looking for extra space and fantastic facilities.
  • Make time for experiences beyond the theme parks, such as Westgate River Ranch or an evening at Disney Springs.
  • Leave room in your suitcase... you'll almost certainly come home with more shopping than you planned!


Ready to Plan Your Florida Holiday?


Whether you're planning your first Florida holiday, returning to experience Epic Universe, or searching for the perfect Orlando villa, Hayley's first-hand experience means herself and the team can offer genuine advice based on exactly what she's seen. At Constant Travel and Personal Holiday Advisors we believe the best recommendations come from real experiences. That's why our Personal Holiday Advisors and in house sales teams regularly visit the destinations we sell, giving you honest advice and expert knowledge you can trust.


If you're ready to start planning your Florida holiday, get in touch with our team today. We'd love to help you create your perfect Sunshine State adventure.


FAQs

  • Is Epic Universe worth visiting?

    Absolutely. If you're planning a Florida holiday, Epic Universe is one of Orlando's most exciting new attractions. With immersive worlds, thrilling rides and experiences for all ages, it's a fantastic addition to any Orlando itinerary. Hayley recommends considering a VIP Tour if you'd like to make the most of your day and experience more attractions with less time spent queuing.

  • Is it better to stay in an Orlando villa or a hotel?

    It depends on your travel style, but for families and larger groups, an Orlando villa is often excellent value. Villas offer more space, private pools, games rooms and fully equipped kitchens, making them ideal for longer stays. Hotels are a great choice if you prefer everything in one place, with on-site restaurants, entertainment and facilities.

  • What are the best things to do in Orlando besides the theme parks?

    While Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort are the biggest attractions, there's plenty more to discover. Hayley recommends visiting Disney Springs for shopping and dining, spending an evening at ICON Park, exploring Celebration, or heading to Westgate River Ranch for airboat rides, rodeos and a completely different side of Florida.

  • When is the best time to visit Florida?

    Florida is a year-round destination, but many travellers choose to visit between October and April when temperatures are warm and humidity is lower. School holidays are popular for families, while quieter periods can offer shorter queue times at the theme parks and great value on Florida holiday packages.

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