Jennifer,

I would suggest at least 2 days at Walt Disney World. That way, you can take your son to the Magic Kingdom, EPCOT (a great way to sneak in some learning about other countries) and the Wide World of Sports. Then, I would suggest spending 2 days at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. At night, I am sure he would love to have dinner at NBA City, which my boys enjoyed at Universal CityWalk. I would also suggest getting tickets to see Blue Man Group. For your last day, you should either relax at your resort pool and enjoy the amenities where you are staying - or hit one of Orlando's water parks. 

Jennifer Michaels

Janice,

Judging from your two e-mails, I can see you have chosen Hutchinson Island, which I think is a great choice for you and your kids. I am sending you a link to an article written about the surrounding beaches and some ideas for your trip: "Exploring the Treasure Coast." In addition, your children will love to learn about all of Florida's sea creatures at the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center - which features 56 acres of marine and nature adventures. The center also has aquariums, touch tanks, a 10,000 gallon "Rays on the Reef" stingray tank, a 750,000-gallon "Game Fish Lagoon" stocked with tarpon, snook, redfish and trout and a "Children's Activity Pavilion" filled with interactive exhibits. The kids will love the daily Game Fish feedings, Stingray feeding programs and guided nature walks on their beautiful one-mile nature trail to the Indian River Lagoon. I think you are making a wise choice. Stick with it if you got a great deal on a hotel and save Panama City for another trip. You will make some wonderful memories. Happy Mother's Day!

Jennifer Michaels, Family Travel Expert

Joachim,

You may be able to "wing it" in July without booking hotels, but if you know your itinerary/schedule, I suggest booking ahead. You can usually cancel hotel reservations with a 24-hour notice without penalty.  When traveling with kids, I would not want to be stuck without a place to sleep. Why don't you look up the listings for Places to Stay on the VISITFLORIDA.com site for the cities you plan to visit. Map out the drive and plan ahead. Like I said, if you end up deciding to change your route, you can always cancel. Better to be safe than sorry!

Jennifer Michaels

Jennifer,

I lived in Chicago for many years, so I know that you are desperate for sun and sand. However, after 5 days at Disney with the kids, I do not suggest driving to a nearby beach (Cocoa Beach or Clearwater Beach) without allowing yourself at least 2 days and one overnight stay. It would just be pushing things since you are going to be turning around and driving home. The boys will have enough "surf" at the Orlando Water Parks and resort pools, many of which have sandy beaches and lounge chairs to create the illusion that you are at the beach! And, I know from personal experience that less car time is better. I think you should spend the last free day relaxing by the hotel pool! Save the beach for another trip if you only have a day. It will take you at least an hour to two hours, depending on traffic, to reach a beach destination. You wouldn't want to drive back to Orlando after a long day wtih the kids at the beach! 

Jennifer MIchaels

Spencer,

What a great question, as safety should always come first when traveling with kids.  I get asked that a lot. You need to check with the shuttle company and ask if they have a car seat available for your 4-year-old. Depending on the height of your 8-year-olds, they may or may not need a booster. See below:

Florida uses the national safety regulations for kids and  car seats. They follow a "4 Steps for Kids Guidelines," which is also posted on the website for the Florida Highway Patrol :

Step 1: Babies from birth to one year AND 20 pounds ride in rear-facing child seats.

Step 2: Toddlers from one year to age four (& 40 lbs.) ride in forward-facing child seats.

Step 3: Children ages four (& 40 lbs) - eight (or 4'9" tall) should ride in booster seats.

Step 4: Children over age eight (or 4’9" tall) may use vehicle's seat belt.

        ALL children 12 and under should ride in the back seat of a vehicle.

Prior to leaving, check out http://www.fhp.state.fl.us/CPS.   Regulations change, so you would need to make sure the information is current. In addition, the Florida Highway Patrol has officers in locations throughout the state who can assist you with any child seat safety questions/concerns. They will make sure your seats are properly installed.

You can bring or rent your car seat/booster.  For example, Hertz Rent A Car charges an average of $10-$12 per day for a car seat. If you plan to fly without it, you can check yours with your luggage.

Safe Travels!

Jennifer Michaels

Jeff,

While August is the hurricane season, you are correct that you shouldn't worry about booking a trip to Orlando. As you say, Orlando is not a coastal city. Plus, hurricanes are trackable. So, if by some slim chance, there was a storm, you would certainly have plenty of notice. I suggest booking the trip and keeping your eyes on the weather. The hotel front desk/concierge can provide you with a daily report. You should be absolutely fine and have a wonderful trip to a Walt Disney World Resort.

Jennifer Michaels

Janet,

Once he sees the "other" side of Florida, he won't be moaning anymore. Why don't you fly into Miami since that is the area you most want to see? Then, after enjoying the beaches/nightlife/dining and shopping, if he still wants to visit theme parks, you could make the compromise and drive North. Or, fly into Orlando, visit the parks first and then shoot over to Cocoa Beach, which isn't too far. Perhaps visit the Kennedy Space Center as well. That way, everyone will be happy! Vacations are all about compromise.  Maybe it could be your Christmas gift to take a trip to the beach!

Jennifer Michaels

Vicki,

Budgets are always a concern when traveling with a large family. I suggest checking out the listings for activities near Pompano Beach and choosing a few that the family can agree on. Then, call the resort and inquire about transportation (i.e. shuttles to attractions, cab fares, etc.). Is the resort near the beach? You kids may just enjoy relaxing days by the surf or pool. We recently went on a trip and my kids discovered that searching for shark's teeth was their favorite activity and if was completely FREE!  The teenagers may want to just sleep in and hang out at the resort pool!  Meals are the best places to cut back. Do an internet search for where kids eat free. Often, you can find Florida restaurants that offer free kids meals, which your 8-year-old would still qualify for.  Also, pack lots of quick, easy breakfasts bars and snacks so you can save on meals too.  That way, if you need to rent a car, you can rent it for a day or two to head to your chosen activity that the whole family will enjoy.

Jennifer Michaels

Peter,

Congratulations on your daughter's wedding. During your 10-day Orlando stay, you should definitely see and do as much as you can in addition to all of the wedding festitives. There are plenty of things that you can do together as a family. I suggest purchasing park-hoppers so that you can take your daughter to see the Walt Disney World princesses and your son to the Wide World of Sports. Perhaps all of you can go to see Blue Man Group and the new rides at Universal Studios.  International Drive offers many outlet shops as well, so you can all go shopping and dine at some wonderful restaurants. I do suggest planning ahead and purchasing tickets early since you know you will be there and work around the wedding plans to see and do as much as you can!

Enjoy!

Jennifer Michaels

Albert,

December is one of the best times to visit Florida. Here's why: The temps in Florida vary, depending on the region. I would say you will find the weather to be about 60 degrees or higher.  Here's a typical average forecast for December by city:

Average Temperatures

• Daytona Beach: High 70°-Low 50°
  
• Fort Myers: High 76°-Low 55°
  
• Jacksonville: High 67°-Low 43°
  
• Key West: High 77°-Low 67°
  
• Miami: High 77°-Low 62°
  
• Orlando: High 73°-Low 51°

I would say that you should plan at least 5 days for your visit - enough time to truly feel like you are on vacation. Regarding where to go....I would have the kids vote. Do they want a beach vacation or an Orlando theme park one? Then, you'll know which city to visit. And, if they want both, you can do that too!

Enjoy!

Jennifer Michaels

Richard,

Do I like Florida? YES! I grew up here, so to me it's home. I have lived in Los Angeles and Chicago as well, but Florida beckoned me to return. The wonderful weather and active, outdoor lifestyle makes living in -- and visiting -- Florida a great experience. Florida has so much to offer families. We never get bored and are always discovering new places and activities.

Jennifer Michaels, Family Travel Expert

I suggest breaking the trip up by spending 2 days in Tampa and then driving south to Naples and spending the remainder of the trip there.  There are wonderful kid-friendly activities in Tampa (Lowry Park Zoo, Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI), and the Florida Aquarium.) Please watch my video on Pre-Cruise Family Day Trips, which we taped in Tampa.  My kids had the best day there. Then, read my story on Voluntourism, where we helped clean up a beach in Naples. The Naples Zoo and Southwest Conservancy are also great day trips with the family. We took a boat ride at the Conservancy. If you are lucky, you might even see a wild dolphin. You will learn so much about the Florida's natural wonders. My kids were "wowed" by petting a snake in Naples and snorkeling with the fish in a coral reef at the Florida Aquarium. Yours would be too! Your 4-year-old can take in the sights from below if your 8-year-old decides to do the swim. We even stopped at Thomas Edison's winter estate for a little history lesson. Between Tampa and Naples, you will have a fun-packed five day vacation!

Jennifer Michaels, Family Travel Expert

Christy,

According to statistics from Orlando Attractions Magazine, Approximately 50 million visitors make the trip to Orlando each year. Roughly 46.5 million of those guests are domestic visitors and 3.5 million are international visitors.

Jennifer Michaels

I recommend purchasing tickets from the official Walt Disney World website, www.disneyworld.com. I also know people who have had great success with Mousesavers.com. My most current blog for April 28th features some deals and specials going on for summer rates in Orlando. Vacation packages with value hotels offer some additional "extras" that are worth looking into.

Jennifer Michaels

Diane,

You have plenty of time to visit both Orlando and Florida's beaches in a five-day visit to Florida.  I suggest spending the first few days at Walt Disney World and then heading over to St. Petersburg/Clearwater Beach (less than a two-hour drive). The beaches are clean and beautiful. Pier 60 in Clearwater has plenty of activities for young families, including Captain Memo's Pirate Cruise and dolphin-watching excurisons.  Pack your sunscreen, camera and pick up some pails and shovels. The kids will have a blast running through the pristine, fine white sand.

Enjoy!

Jennifer Michaels,Family Travel Expert

Lorraine,

My suggestion is to call the resort where you are staying and ask them for a recommendation of a taxi company that they work with directly.  You can also try another option: Get a ride to major Orlando attractions for only $1.00 on the I-RIDE Trolley, where a single fare is $1.00 and package deals are available for those expecting heavier usage. Running daily from 8:30 a.m. – 9 p.m., the I-RIDE Trolley serves hundreds of destinations within the International Drive Resort Area. If planning to navigate Walt Disney World Resort, their transportation systems (monorails, buses and boats) provide free door-to-door access to all four theme parks, water parks, Downtown Disney and all 23 resorts. For visitors to Downtown's arts, culture and dining scene, there is a free bus circulator called LYMMO, offering guests rides along a 3-mile loop in the heart of downtown Orlando.

Jennifer Michales, Family Travel Expert

Sangita,

It is hot - but not too rainy -- in Florida in August, but there are many ways to stay cool and enjoy your trip with the kids.  First of all, I am sure your resort has a pool. My suggestion is to hit the parks early and then go back to the pool during the mid-day hours when the sun is at its strongest. Then, return to the parks at night to enjoy the beautiful summer nights.  In addition, Orlando is filled with waterparks near Lake Buena Vista. In fact, SeaWorld just opened Aquatica, which would certainly keep everyone cool.  There is also Walt Disney World's Blizzard Beach.  For an alternative to theme parks and water parks, I also suggest spending time in Orlando's many air-conditioned shopping venues and restaurants.  You can search the listings on VISITFLORIDA.com. Orlando is a great family-friendly destination for your family.  Perhaps you could also go to Universal Studios and enjoy some of the indoor, air-conditioned shows like Blue Man Group.  Don't forget to pack hats, sunscreen, and portable fans, which will also help you beat the heat.  And, it is very important for everyone to pre-hydrate and drink plenty of water throughout the day. 

Jennifer Michaels

Elizabeth,

Here's a link to the VISITFLORIDA.com page where you can order all the guides you need to plan a wonderful trip to Florida.  In addition to Walt Disney World, I would suggest taking your 3-year-old to SeaWorld to see all of the dolphins and whales. The shows will "wow" both of you. You won't be disappointed.

Jennifer Michaels

The best time to view manatees in their natural habitat is during the colder months; however, in some areas, manatees can be seen throughout the year.  During the summer, the best time to catch them is early in the morning.  I am sure your kids will be awake and ready to go! There are tour companies throughout Florida, including Crystal River and Ft. Meyers. To swim with these gentle giants is the way to go! Here is a video of our Adventure Expert doing just that.  Here is a another link to one of many manatee tour companies. This  website says that children of all ages can experience the viewing. If the child is too young to dive, he or she can remain on the boat.  I went as a child and I can tell you it is an experience I will never forget!

Jennifer Michaels

Thanks for your interest in visiting Florida. My vote for the best time of year to visit is when you are escaping the cold weather in Boston -- specifically Jan. through April. The weather here during that time is usually mild.  Once you choose a specific city, you can look up "Places To Stay" on VISITFLORIDA.com.  Each city will feature listings and direct you to the resort/hotel property.  For dining on Indian cuisine, I suggest you choose one of Florida's larger cities like Orlando, Ft. Lauderdale or Miami, where you have plenty of options. The hotel concierge will surely point you in the right direction. 

Jennifer Michaels

February is a wonderful time to visit Florida with your children. The state offers many activities other than theme parks. Some of my children's best trips have been filled with nature activities.  Why not take a swim with the Florida manatees, go on a dolphin-watching cruise, air boat trip or hike through one of Florida's beautiful nature preserves?  I suggest figuring out which part of Florida you would like to visit and then searching the VISITFLORIDA.com site for that city. Each page has a list of attractions. You will be happy to find plenty of activities that do not involve roller coasters! In fact, read my most recent blog post. We went kayaking on Amelia Island and my children had a great family vacation!

Jennifer Michaels

Estelle,

It sounds to me like you have such a large party that you may want to visit Orlando, where there is something to do for everyone. Perhaps your daughter could take her young children to a theme park in the morning and you could all meet up later in the day. Orlando is very accommodating for travelers with disabilities. I am forwarding you a link to the VISITFLORIDA page which features places to stay that will be have the facilities you need.  There are great animal shows at SeaWorld, which everyone would enjoy. And, perhaps you could all go see the Blue Man Group show at Universal Studios, which my kids and I loved.  Also, you may consider renting a home since you are planning such an extended vacation.

Jennifer Michaels

Susan,

First of all, I applaud you for taking this family time with your children.  Family vacations are such great bonding time and a cruise will allow time for you to relax.  There are many reasonably priced accommodations in Ft. Lauderdale close to the beach on VISITFLORIDA.com. Just click this link for places to stay.  Since you are embarking on a cruise and have limited time, I suggest saving Orlando for another trip.  I would stay close to the port and enjoy the beautiful beaches and attractions of Ft. Lauderdale with the kids. Depending on their interests (and yours), there is shopping, golf, beach, and nature. I suggest looking into Butterfly World, Dolphin World, airboat cruises or Wannado City.  You can find enough to keep you and the boys busy and have plenty of fun before you leave the port. Here is a link to attractions in the Ft. Lauderdale area.   You are smart to plan ahead and have allowed yourself time to plan an amazing Florida vacation!

Jennifer Michaels

There is plenty to do with your little one in both Daytona Beach and Treasure Island, Florida. Treasure Island is close to St. Petersburg Beach, where you can take the baby to a wonderful hands-on children's museum called Great Explorations! That will feel like a giant amusement park to him or her. There is a pretend mini-grocery store where no one will care if your toddler spills the apples!  You can also take a stroll down the St. Pete Pier and visit the aquarium to check out the sea creatures.  In addition to the beautiful beaches in both of the destinations you mention, there are many day trips and activities. I suggest checking the Daytona Beach website, where I have linked you to driving times for attractions.

Christina,

Actually, summer is a wonderful time to get a great deal on hotel/resorts in Florida. Many offer summer rates. Usually, the winter months and Spring Break are busier. You will be just fine from that perspective. The beaches are usually filled with locals during the summer months as well, so I suggest figuring out what part/coast of Florida you would like to visit and then checking out our listings on "Places to Stay" based on that particular city. You should have no problem finding a deal.

Jennifer Michaels, Family Travel Expert

Julie,

The "best" part of Florida with toddlers probably depends on how much you try to see and do.  I do recall those days and I actually think when they are so little, less is often more while on vacation. Try to keep them on their schedules as much as you can, which means naps and breaks. Don't try to pack in too many attractions.

With that said, I would stay at a full-service resort with amenities (pools, room-service, etc.)  Depending on whether you want to take them to a theme park or not, there are so many fun things to do with kids that age in Orlando. SeaWorld is a wonderful option; they will be captivated by the dolphin and whale shows.  Both Universal Studios and Walt Disney World have toddler-friendly areas.  Their websites have areas where you can type in the age and the site will direct you to the age-appropriate rides. 

There are also smaller attractions like Dinosaurworld in Plant City (a quick day trip from Orlando), where the kids can run around and check out the life-size dinosaur models. Tampa, which is only an hour or so from Orlando, also has Busch Gardens, Tampa Bay, with many toddler-friendly areas/rides/splash areas, as well as up-close animal viewing. The wonderful adventure park just opened a new area called Jungala, where your little "monkeys" can climb a giant, three-story tree house that will keep them busy for hours!

That should be a great start!  Either way you go, thinking ahead is the key! Packing extra snacks, travel games and what I call my "Bag of Tricks" is the secret to family travel. Enjoy!

Jennifer Michaels

I do suggest renting a car for your trip. You should have no problem renting a car with a valid International Driving License, but make sure to tell the booking agent and double-check with the rental car agency directly. Here is a link to Hertz, which answers the question by saying that as long as the representative can translate the license and you meet all of the other requirements, you should be fine.

Also, make sure that you check with the agency about renting car seats if your children meet those safety requirements as well. I think you will be happy to have your own rental car so you can stop and see sights or pull off of the highway for snacks and meals.  If you shop around, you should be able to find a good deal since you are not traveling at peak season.

Jennifer Michaels

Samer,

Five days is plenty of time to visit both Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World. As far as where to stay, many Orlando hotels and resorts are within a few miles of both parks offer shuttles and transportation. I would just plan to stay closer to - or within - the park where you plan to spend the most time. 

The "partner" hotels you are referring to are actually nine hotels that joined Universal Orlando In a "Universal Partner Hotel" program - allowing visitors to book Universal vacations at them and receive transportation to and from the parks and other benefits including discounts on food and merchandise. The hotels, all within three miles of Universal Orlando create a wide selection of price ranges for Universal visitors.  You can select from the hotels mentioned in this article from the Orlando Sentinal. Or, you can stay at one of three on-site properties and walk or take water taxis to the park. Plus, the room keys help you bypass the longer lines, which to me, is a wonderful benefit when traveling with kids.

Walt Disney World Resorts come in all different price ranges as well and offer benefits if you plan to spend the most time at WDW.  However, I am sure you won't be disappointed wherever you choose to stay because if you purchase park-hopper passes (which I recommend), and are visiting both Disney and Universal, you'll be spending very little time in your room! In addition, if you stay at a Disney property, you can get discounts and extended hours to the Walt Disney World parks.

There are several factors at play here. But, Orlando attractions are not too far from each other and transportation to/from the parks will not be a problem once you figure out where you want to stay!

Jennifer Michaels, Family Travel expert

Andy,

I am so glad you like Tampa so much! It is a wonderful place to visit! I would suggest checking on the individual airline sites for vacation packages, as the discount internet brokers usually price things out separately.  You should also check with the Tampa Convention & Visitors Bureau. I am sure they'll steer you in the right direction.

Jennifer Michaels

Kerry,

Why not take advantage of the wonderful FREE nature activities that Florida's State Park's have to offer? Pack a few sandwiches and head out to a beach for a nature walk and discover the "Real Florida." My children and I just got back from Amelia Island, where they spent hours looking for - and finding - shark's teeth on the beach. Our beach treasure-hunting was the highlight of our trip - and it didn't cost a penny! If you are creative, there are many preserves in Florida where you can take the kids to do some great family-friendly activities.  Read my blog on the Brooker Creek Nature Preserve, where we took binoculars and spent a day learning about Florida's natural wonders. There are plenty of such hikes throughout the state.

Jennifer Michaels

Amy,

Wow! Now that is a busy itinerary! As for Universal Orlando, I would say to purchase tickets ahead of time for Blue Man Group. It's a wonderful "don't miss" show at Universal Studios. My kids loved the show. There are some great new rides/attractions that just opened too - like The Simpsons Ride. We had dinner on Universal CityWalk, which is a great way to spend the evening. My boys had a blast shooting hoops at NBA City.  On Clearwater Beach, I suggest taking the Captain Memo's Pirate Cruise. It's a great way to relax out on the water and they entertain the kids the entire trip! The Naples Zoo is on my list, as well as the Miami Seaquarium. By the time you get to Key West and Islamorada, I am sure you'll be ready to relax and enjoy the sun and sand. I do suggest taking the kids to Ernest Hemingway's house to see the historic 6-toed cats. Rent bikes and see the island. This also tires the kids out for bed! Enjoy your trip! Safe Travels!

Jennifer Michaels, Family Travel Expert

Shirley,

Depending on what they are interested in, here are a few ideas: Orlando's NBA City and Disney's Wide World of Sports are a few good options for sports fans. If you are there, check out the Richard Petty Driving Experience too.  I would stay at the hip Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando and maybe catch the Blue Man Group show in the evening.  Otherwise, if they prefer to relax on a beach vacation, I would suggest heading to South Beach in Miami. I am sure your teenager and twentysomethings will enjoy the beach, shops, people-watching and nightlife.

Jennifer Michaels

The truth is that you may enjoy Walt Disney World without your babies, but you may also miss them when you see all the families strolling their little ones around the park! It's a personal decision. I would suggest getting passes for a few days and trying it both ways. If you find a babysitter, you can take the babies for a few hours and perhaps return to enjoy some evening activities without them.  The kids usually start to melt down at the end of the day anyway.  The Walt Disney World website has a section featuring what activities are good for younger children. Remember that part of the "magic" is seeing your daughter's faces light up when they see Mickey in a parade.  The wonderful thing about Walt Disney World is that each time you go, you experience it in a different way as the kids grow and they want to do different things at the park. My kids have outgrown characters and that always makes me a bit nostalgic for when they were babies.  The memories will be for you, not them.  They will see the pictures when they are older.  I would spend the first day with them and then see how you feel.

Jennifer Michaels

Liz,

I would suggest several things. First, check with the concierge/front desk at the resort where you are staying and ask which rental company they recommend in the area. I did find one on the internet called Babies On Vacations that says they service Daytona Beach and it seems to have what you are searching for. (I cannot personally recommend them since I have never used them). With that said, I suggest that you read some important safety information and check out the links to sites for government recalls prior to renting baby equiptment on FamilyTravelPlanet.com.  I have compiled some tips which I think would be helpful to think about when renting strollers, etc.  The extra research is well worth the time.

Jennifer Michaels

Pensacola would be my first suggestion for a place to take your son. What little boy doesn't love planes? The National Museum of Naval Avaiation displays hundreds of restored aircrafts. Then, I would tire him out at Sam's Fun City, where kids can ride bumper boats, play miniature golf and ride a Ferris wheel. Or, if you prefer Panama City Beach, your son would love watching sea creatures at Gulf World Marine Park.

Jennifer Michaels, Family Travel Expert

Nina,

There are very safe and wonderfully kid-friendly places for your family in Orlando. My boys are 7 and 9 as well and we love to visit the theme parks in Orlando.  We just returned from the Nickelodeon Family Suites by Holiday Inn.  The property is as child-friendly as you can imagine!  I suggest breaking up your trip by staying at a few places.  Perhaps you spend a few days at the Nick Hotel and then break up the trip by staying at a Walt Disney World Resort or Universal Orlando Resort.  This way, you can experience the different parks Orlando has to offer. SeaWorld is another great park that your kids would enjoy. Rest assured, if you go onto the official websites for the WDW Resorts or Universal's properties, I am sure you'll find what you are looking for in all different price ranges to suit your budget.  You can also read through my blogs for some fun ideas for where to take the kids.

Jennifer Michaels

Jordan,

About 8 miles away from the airport, you will find The Breakers, a wonderful luxury resort that caters to families traveling with children. I have provided you with a link to the family activities above. I suggest checking out this historic property with plenty of amenities the whole family will enjoy! I actually went with my parents when I was around 6 and have memories of playing tennis and enjoying the beach.

Today's Breakers has even more family-friendly fun, including the 6,160 square foot Family Entertainment Center open daily that engages the entire family in fun-filled activities featuring:

Jennifer Michaels

Monica,

I think you are doing the right thing by planning ahead and trying to save for a family vacation. Your kids (certainly your 10 and 12-year-old) might be able to help save as well. Perhaps they could find some babysitting or dog-walking jobs in the neighborhood. My suggestion is to have a family meeting about what type of vacation you are looking for in Florida (Themepark vs. Beach Getaway). Then, narrow it down to where you would want to go. My vote is Orlando. While it is costly, if you all set a goal to make it happen, it just may work! There are many budget properties that could help with cutting costs.  Plus, you can bring your own snacks and have budget on-the-go meals and try eating at restaurants where kids eat free.  I would choose one theme park (Walt Disney World, SeaWorld or Universal Studios) that you all agree on and then search for the best package.  Let me know what you decide and I can try to assist you once you figure out where it is that you want to go.  If you choose to do a beach vacation, pick which coast and then search the VISITFLORIDA.com site's "places to stay" listings for each city.

Jennifer Michaels

Libby,

The laws in the United States are similar, especially for an infant. So, yes, you do need a car seat.

I get asked that question a lot, as safety should always come first when traveling with kids and laws do vary state-to-state.

Florida uses the national safety regulations for kids and  car seats. They follow a "4 Steps for Kids Guidelines," which is also posted on the website for the Florida Highway Patrol :

Step 1: Babies from birth to one year AND 20 pounds ride in rear-facing child seats.

Step 2: Toddlers from one year to age four (& 40 lbs.) ride in forward-facing child seats.

Step 3: Children ages four (& 40 lbs) - eight (or 4'9" tall) should ride in booster seats.

Step 4: Children over age eight (or 4’9" tall) may use vehicle's seat belt.

        ALL children 12 and under should ride in the back seat of a vehicle.

Prior to leaving, check out http://www.fhp.state.fl.us/CPS.   Regulations change, so you would need to make sure the information is current. In addition, the Florida Highway Patrol has officers in locations throughout the state who can assist you with any child seat safety questions/concerns. They will make sure your seats are properly installed.

Rental agencies like Hertz Rent A Car charges an average of $10-$12 per day for a car seat. If you plan to fly without it, you can check yours with your luggage, so you are not carrying too much on the plane. Make the reservation ahead of time if you choose to rent a car seat and make sure to tell them that you are going to need a rear-facing one.

I think - given the circumstances of how far you are traveling - I would get a car seat that attaches to your stroller (since you'll need that too) and make sure you have one with you. I don't think you can count on taxis to have one. With such a young child, I would bring your own so you know you are safe.

Jennifer Michaels, Family Travel expert

You are correct about Sanibel Island being a perfect, relaxing getaway from it all! If you are looking for other such beaches, there are many surrounding Sanibel in the Fort Meyers area. I suggest you check out the official visitor's guide to the area to see what you prefer. You can view it at http://www.fortmyers-sanibel.com. The relaxing atmosphere, wonderful quiet pace would be a great place to take the twins, who will tire out fast running around the beach and playing in the water. Pack lots of sunscreen and pick up some pails and shovels when you arrive.

Jennifer Michaels

I am actually headed to Amelia Island myself and think this would be a wonderful spot for you to stop on your way down from Georgia.  It is about 350 miles from Atlanta. We will stay at the Amelia Island Plantation. You can read about the destination, resorts and activities at www.AmeliaIsland.org.

In addition, nearby Fort Clinch State Park  is one of the most well-preserved 19th century forts in the country. You can sunbathe, swim, roam self-guided nature trails to discover native plants and wildlife, or explore a six-mile trail through the park with views of the biggest sand dunes in Florida. After a long hike, you can get back in the car and continue your drive to Orlando.

Jennifer Michaels

Christina,

Florida has plenty for you to do with a 2-year-old! My answer would depend on whether you wanted a beach vacation or a more active sight-seeing one. Two-year-olds love to check out animals. SeaWorld or the Florida Aquarium are good options. I would pick a location and then see what type of zoos or animal attractions the area has to offer. If you would like to take her to a bigger venue, she would enjoy many areas of Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando Resorts, which both have kiddie rides. Enjoy!

Jennifer Michaels

Tricia,

The VISITFLORIDA.com site has listing for where to stay on both beaches. In your price range, I suggest looking into the Sheraton Sand Key, which is between both Clearwater and St. Petersburg Beaches. That way, you can go to both. The girls would love the St. Petersburg Pier as well as all of the fun activities on Clearwater Beach. Plus, you can just relax by the pool/beach and still be able to go back to the resort for naps and snacks!

Jennifer Michaels

Bryon,

Here is a link to places to stay on Siesta Key on the VISITFLORIDA.com site. I think you'll find many choices.  Whether your visit is a few days or a few months, this 8-mile-long barrier island offers variety in accommodations, gourmet dining, shopping, fishing, boating and water sports. I am sure your 4-year-old will be happy with a pail and shovel. Don't forget to pack the sunscreen! You will have a great time relaxing on the beach and getting rest before heading over to Walt Disney World. She's at the perfect age to meet Cinderella.

Jennifer Michaels

Gary,

Florida weather can be divided into two seasons – Wet and Dry. The first extends from May through October and the other from November through April.  With that said, why don't you pick Februrary to visit Florida. That way, you avoid holiday crowds, rain and summer heat! I think that sounds like a good plan!

Jennifer Michaels

When I think of tropical, I think of the Keys. I suggest flying to Key West and heading over to Duck Key, where the resort Hawk's Cay is a wonderful family-friendly destination catering to parents like you. They do offer babysitting services. If you go soon, ask about a special rate that features up to 40% on newly redesigned resort rooms and up to 20% on two-bedroom villas during April and May 2008.  Hawk's Cay offers 60-acres of fun, five pools and a Pirate Ship that your little ones will love!  For the older boys, The Cove at Hawks Cay has exciting daily programs for kids and teens. Games, contests, arts and crafts, nature lessons, water-sports, an exclusive pool and sport courts, and cool nighttime events are sure to keep them busy and happy while you enjoy some time alone with your wife. There is also a Cove Lounge with XBOX and snacks. Need I say more? The nice thing about a resort like this is that you don't have to leave the property.

Jennifer Michaels, Family Travel Expert

Angie,

I am going to assume you mean "body surfing." Yes. While the East Coat waves are better for surfing, Clearwater/St. Petersburg beaches can offer plenty of crashing waves. In fact, the Mandalay Surf and Sport shop on Clearwater Beach actually has a surfing hotline you can call to check out the waves! I usually get the boys boogie boards so they can ride the waves or any of the local souvenir shops sell skimboards to ride the edge of the surf.

Jennifer Michaels

Marco,

While you are in Orlando, you may want to bring the children to SeaWorld's new water park, Aquatica, in addition to Walt Disney World and Universal Studios.  After your stay in Orlando, you can experience the "real America" and the beaches of Florida by driving over to the Space Coast and Cocoa Beach. Perhaps you would like to visit the Kennedy Space Center, which would be a wonderful learning experience for your children. 

Jennifer Michaels

I think that after the cruise, you will be happy to stay on land for a few days with the baby. Why not stay in the Tampa/St. Petersburg area and take your daughter on fun day trips in the area so you can fly in and out of Tampa? This would be much more convenient than driving south for 4 hours in the car to Miami. She would love the Florida Aquarium, which is adjacent to the Port of Tampa. You can stroll through the Channelside shopping area. Then, you can head to see the animals at Busch Gardens, Tampa Bay. For another option, you can head to Orlando to SeaWorld for one day. Or, if you are more interested in a beach vacation, drive only 45 minutes from Tampa to Clearwater Beach for a night. You can find places to stay by checking out the listings on VISITFLORIDA.com. I think that would make a wonderful post-cruise vacation.

Jennifer Michaels

Sharon,

The Lake Okeechobee area is filled with plenty of scenic areas and trails to take the kids.  I am attaching a link to an article on the Okeechobee area and what there is to do nearby. I think on a trip like this, you will need to be prepared to be creative with the kids so they have fun on the nature trails. You can read my blog about when we took my son to the Brooker Creek Nature Preserve. Kids love using compasses and binoculars. Pack lots of fun things for them to experience nature with (Bug-catchers, etc.) Even empty plastic storage containers are great for capturing frogs! The baby will enjoy the outdoors and lake breezes. Fishing, boat cruises and farm tours are all a great way to teach the kids about the local environment of one of Florida's most wonderful natural landscapes.

Jennifer Michaels

Louise,

Hurricane season is from June 1 - November 30.  I suggest you take the kids to Walt Disney World during the drier months of December - Februrary.   Don't worry about the weather. The kids will most assuredly have a "magical" time!

Jennifer Michaels