Christmas/New year in Orlando

Flying on Boxing Day to the states might seem like an offbeat, off peak idea right?
wrong. it's the busiest time of the year, so if you plan on a winter break, don't expect a quiet trip.

the flight - Manchester to Orlando

Virgin have upgraded their in flight entertainment so touch screen TVs and easier to use handsets are now the norm... Along with haunted GU pot boxes. (Well mine kept me entertained)
If you are looking for a good doc on a Virgin flight, check out The Imposter, a gobsmacking true life tale of an abduction, a man who assumes the youngster's identity, and the family who take him in.
Also good to see Awake, Jason Isaacs' series which has a good premise, but works hard to keep viewers in the loop with an Inception style dream scenario.

Getting around

Mears are Orlando's biggest transport chain, so it was good to give someone else a go. Super Shuttle provide a great service, so if you're one of the thousands of Brits in the sunshine state soon, give them a try.
get Lynx 7 day bus passes and I trolley passes to save cash if you don't drive.

The hotel
What can I say about The Peabody that countless Florida loving Brits probably haven't heard already? Now bigger than ever, this stunning hotel is a dream to stay in. Check in was slow on Boxing Day due to huge queues, but the room is spacious, comfy bed, great TV, and fridge.
the sucker punch moment? A tv in the bathroom mirror!
$9 a day room charge covers Internet, 2 bottles of water, and 2 I trolley passes - a real bargain.

stuff to do
Discovery Cove.
book in advance for around $200 and swim with dolphins, manta rays and stunning fish our lounge on the man made beach.
Dining and drinks included

the Improv Comedy Club, The Pointe.
New Year's Eve show was a bit of a rip off in my opinion, and the MC and first act were dubious at best, but the main act, Jeremy Hotz, was superb. get chips and dips to save cash.

the Pub, The Pointe
cracking place to spend New Year's Eve/Day. great atmos, hard working staff, good decor and excellent food. dieters beware.

Orlando Science Centre
a bit of a trek on buses to Downtown Orlando, but for those tired of the parks, a welcome diversion. around $27, which includes film shows. Also in walking distance of a great art gallery with gobsmacking glass work, paintings and sculptures. $8 admission. Well worth it.