Orlando Vacation Home - Going Green!

The thought of Going Green can be intimidating to some folks. After all, it's all about doing the right thing for the environment and ultimately saving mother earth. One might assume that it requires a heightened sense of responsibility and at a premium cost while delivering less.

Visions of trading in oversized vehicles for smaller cars running on solar batteries or getting rid of a perfect running refrigerator so that you can buy a new and shiny energy efficient perfect running refrigerator. Can the cost be justified?

It is probably safe to say that most people are not willing to sacrifice paying more or to proactively re-buy goods if they don't need to. However, SunShiny Villa is doing it's part to reduce energy usage and is taking the time to make people aware of the smart products and services that have been invested within our going green initiative. Guests can now feel good staying in a vacation home that is taking steps to be energy efficient without charging extra or sacrificing anything for visitors.

SunShiny Villa is a luxury Orlando vacation home that is going green. This is not a new concept for this villa. In fact, one of the first actions taken was a move towards going green. It wasn't purposely done to save the world or to make us feel like martyrs but being in a situation that allowed for money to be spent up front so that it would be saved moving forward. It was about the color green of dollar bills in savings that just made sense.

The first energy saving move put into play is a programmable network thermostat. The primary goal is to save on HVAC maintenance and to control operational costs. Once installed, homeowners can log into a 3rd party website which brings up the interface seen above. An example of how our Orlando vacation home green program is setup is as follows:

• Tier 1 - Vacation Home Status - Occupied versus Not Occupied


• Tier 2 - Override Parameters - The number of degrees that can override the set points


• Tier 3 - Set Back Schedule - Specify times in which the thermostat will change or hold temperature

This is just a synopsis of action that has been taken to make SunShiny Villa into a green and environmentally friendly Orlando vacation home. Please check back again for more in depth and complete analysis of the tools deployed. If you rally round this effort, please support the SunShinyFlorida.com website by book marking within your browser and sharing with anyone planning a trip to the Disney Orlando area. More progress can be made going green and will be subsidized by future rentals of vacation guests.

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Orlando Weather is Hot Hot Hot!

There are more then a few reasons why Florida is a top vacation spot for domestic and international travelers alike. Although not the sunniest state, (Arizona wins that title) Florida’s overall subtropical weather is still a big draw.

Orlando’s annual average temperature is 72ºF while receiving an annual average 50 inches of rain. As a rule, summer is hot and winter is mild. This allows outside activities to be available year round and consequently is the home for many amusement parks and visitor entertainment.

However, as the “Fall Season” has settled in, the temperatures have been resilient and above average. October was giving highs in the 90’s with feel like temperatures well in the 100’s which was hotter then this past summer. The November lows on many nights were staying in the low 70ºF range. Residents have prolonged the pool season and guests have welcomed the above average temperatures. Not to mention that this is the least impacting hurricane season in 27 years. It appears that Orlando's weather is picture perfect. What more could you ask for?

So what does all of this mean? Maybe this is related to El Nino. This weather phenomenon is expected to strengthen through winter and last into spring. If predictions hold true, Florida will be slightly colder and wetter then average. It should be noted though, there have seen no signs of that pattern in Florida up to this point.

Who knows what weather is really in store for 2010. This is just another reason to get out and enjoy every day to the fullest. Regardless of future forecasts, tourists with planned itineraries for the upcoming months should ensure that their accommodations are equipped with a backup plan. Choose an Orlando Vacation Home with full Games Room, Games Console and DVD Library of hit movies. Hopefully all of your vacation days will be sunshiny, warm and dry.

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Orlando Steakhouse Restaurant

If looking for a unique and delicious dining experience while in the Orlando area, Ruth's Chris Steak House is an excellent choice. Located on West Sand Lake Road in Orlando makes this restaurant convenient for shopping and is easily accessible from I-4. This restaurant is Casual Elegant dining with the price range being $50+. It is recommended that reservations be made but walk-ins are more than welcome too.

Start the experience with a cocktail in the bar/lounge area while the staff prepares your table for dinner. Ruth's Chris is primarily a steakhouse but also offers lamb and chicken along with a variety of fresh seafood such as lobster, shrimp and scallops. Side dishes include many potato choices, fresh vegetables and seasonal favorites. There are over 100 domestic and imported wines to choose from which will complement any food choice made for dinner. Be sure to save room for one of the many “to die for” delicious homemade desserts which will put an end to this superb fine dining experience.

The ambience of Ruth's Chris Steak House restaurant comforts diners whether it’s a romantic dinner for 2, a family celebration or a business affair. If hosting a private event, there are 2 separate dining rooms to match the occasion too. The service is every bit as good as the food especially with giving a full visual presentation of entreés and desserts at the beginning and by having plenty of extra help getting the meals out and drinks topped off. A special touch is when the manager stops by visitors table near the end of their meal to ensure they met expectations.

When it calls for great food and good service by friendly staff, let Ruth's Chris leave a lasting impression that have guests wanting to return to this establishment for future visits.

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Added Value of Amenities to Vacation Home Rentals

Winter break is just starting for school kids in NY and other states. Spring break will follow shortly after and of course summer is only 4 months away. These next few months will be especially busy for Orlando vacation home owners with the receiving of inquiries for rate quotes and availability. Some vacationers will send out many requests for booking information and will wait for all the rates to come back so that the lowest price can be chosen for their stay. When executing this tactic it is necessary to evaluate the information coming back to ensure that owners have given fully disclosed prices and that after acceptance an additional line item of state tax or other does not appear. This will allow a decision based on the overall value of provided amenities or simply that it meets the primary budget to be made.

Most vacation home owners take great pride with their homes in the Orlando area. It is hardly a revelation to learn that year after year these same people try to keep their property up to date with upgrades and new features for marketing to new guests and to maintain their repeat clientele. Not all Orlando vacation homes are equal and it would be useful to set a range of rates that you are prepared to reserve for a vacation home that will give you what you need versus what you want. Furthermore break it down into a daily rate to make a precise decision that you will settle for less of a vacation home if the difference in price is $xx per night as such.

Travelers planning on staying in an Orlando vacation home and are interested in learning of the extensive considerations of different amenities and the potential value they mean to guests can read the full report to make an informed decision. The statement of "You Get What You Pay For" is often very much true.

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How to get a Cheap Luxury Orlando Vacation on a Budget

The economy is slumping, 401K's are shrinking and the future of jobs are in a state of uncertainty. Most people have never seen it so bad and don't know how to react. Many will cancel the family vacation as a precaution. However, knowing your options can allow a luxury vacation in an Orlando Vacation Home rental at a very modest and affordable price. Comprised below is a list of criteria to get a cheap luxury Orlando vacation.

Learn the dates and rates of Orlando tourist seasons

• Hotel rooms, vacation homes, car rentals and theme parks lower their prices and/or offer incentives to compete for lower number of visitors to the area during low season.

Rent an all inclusive vacation home

Choosing a home with many all inclusive amenities may cost a bit more but will end up saving with less trips to Disney World and eating out at restaurants. The many benefits may include the following and more:

• 5 Bedroom homes and larger allow families to vacation together and split the cost


• Homes have their own private pool and spa. Hours for swimming are when convenient


• Private game rooms including pool table and full size luxury games


• DVD libraries, big screen TV's, xBox360 and free Wi-Fi


• Clubhouse amenities - PC and Internet access, fitness room and sports courts


• Kitchen facilities including all dishes and utensils allow buying of food at the grocery store for at home meals


• Square footage. You are not trapped in one room.

Look into Car Rentals

• There are many travel portals available to help find the cheapest rental. Consider location as some agencies are not at the airport. The inconvenience may be worth the extra discount.


• Fuel service is commonly offered in which the price per gallon is very cheap but you should know that a service fee is usually charged so it should always be cheaper to deny the service and return with a full tank.


• Many visitors have rental car insurance as part of their primary policy at home. Know before you go so that you can save money and be covered for incidentals.

Arrange theme park tickets in advance

• There are many locations that will sell your park tickets in advance at a discounted price.

Save money with coupons

• By going online to tourist information or picking up brochures in restaurants, gas bars and shops that will allow discounts on merchandise, meals and attractions.

As an Orlando vacation home owner, I routinely receive feedback that our all inclusive home near Disney had something for everyone and gave further savings by enjoying the offerings of the vacation home rather then make trips to the surrounding theme parks. Take an opportunity to see pictures and learn more on all inclusive Orlando vacation home offerings at affordable prices.

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Orlando's Haunted Theme Park

Visitors to Orlando, Florida looking for heart pounding and adrenaline flowing excitement need look no further. Universal Studios which is best known for its movie themed thrill rides and cartoon attractions, features a scary Halloween Horror Nights attraction yearly in the month of October. The rides are mostly closed as it showcases the following:

• Scare Zones
• Haunted Houses
• Live Shows
• 1000's of Scareactors in uniquely created costumes

The gates open just after 6:00 p.m. as the sun starts to set and opens way to darkness. Machines cast out a fog that hovers throughout the park and provides an eerie atmosphere that leave guests vulnerable to unexpected scares or disturbing sights. As patrons make their way from one attraction to the next it will be necessary to walk through a scare zone. Screams heard from nearby victims indicate that a startling confrontation with mutants and monsters may be imminent. Visitors who lose focus of their surroundings are in danger of being rushed upon or snuck up on with maybe a deep breath into their ear. Don't look back, just run! Although the Universal crew can jump out at any given moment and get right into your face, it seems that the one clear rule is to not physically touch anyone.

The haunted houses are each unique with new themes each year. The mood is usually set with darkness and dim lighting at best. As guests walk through narrow maze-like hallways, entrances from room to room give way to frightening images and alarming live encounters. Walls can open up as maniacs reach for you in hopes of adding another trophy to one of the disturbing houses that guests are viewing. Strobe lighting and ominous sounds of knives being sharpened sets the stage for what lies ahead.

Lastly there are live shows for those who don't want to scream and jump out of there shoes. The Rocky Horror Picture Show was very well done whereas the magic show was disappointing. While there are disclaimers about the event being a bit much for children, there were some in attendance and they seemed to be fine. Parents will need to evaluate if appropriate for their own kids. Please note that guests are not permitted to wear costumes.

Save money on your attraction tickets and skip all the lines with the express pass. While others wait 45 minutes you will be in within 5. If travelling to the Disney area for vacation, stay in a luxury Orlando Vacation Home at affordable hotel prices.

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Orlando Discount Attraction Tickets

Each year, more then 50 million tourists from around the world choose Orlando, Florida as their vacation destination. Orlando is not only known for the hot, sunshiny weather but more so for the many theme parks and tourist attractions that it offers to families and visitors alike. Some of the more notable Orlando parks include Disney World Resort, Sea World, Universal Studios and Wet and Wild.

A recent partnership with the largest Orlando theme park tickets discount store has provided visitors of SunShinyFlorida.com, direct access to low priced tickets for Orlando's theme parks, dinner shows and attractions. Guests can be confident with their online purchase of discount Disney World tickets for the following reasons:

• Authorized and full-service ticket provider


• Active contracts with Disney World and Orlando's major theme parks


• More then 700,000 admissions sold yearly


• No affiliation to time share

Vacationers looking to maximize their fun at affordable prices should look at staying in a 5 star all inclusive vacation home with pool and full games room entertainment including pool table, air hockey and pop a shot. Who says you can't live in luxury accommodations while saving money over a hotel?

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Orlando's Unique Attraction

Visitors to the Orlando Disney area wanting a unique experience need to check out Old Town. Located just minutes away on US 192 in Kissimmee are the attractions of Old Town. The bright neon lights at night will guide you into the free parking and admission of the grounds. There are over 75 specialty shops along the brick lined streets featuring resort wear, sports apparel, jewelry, souvenirs and old fashioned collectibles. There are also a variety of dining options along the Old Town streets including 8 restaurants and bars.

There are amusement rides for the whole family to enjoy as well as 18 thrill rides one of which is "The Human Slingshot". It will catapult you 365 feet in the air with radical force and 100% adrenaline. Also the "Windstorm Roller Coaster" will have you twisting and turning through 80 degree banks. Have you ever raced upon a "multi-level go-cart track"? That is here too! If you want to slow things up a little, take a ride on the "Century Ferris Wheel" which will give a great view of Orlando from 60 feet in the air. Also there is "Fun Town" which is just for the kids and guaranteed to bring smiles. There are many rides for everyone but nothing beats having the whole family ride one of the many uniquely painted horses of the "Merry-Go-Round". All of the rides are open 12pm-11pm daily.

Old Town has many special nights designated just for Car and Bike enthusiasts. On Thursday of every week is Bike Nite which averages 700 bikes each and every week. The Friday Nite Cruise car show stars at 5pm with the car parade following at 9pm. Here you will see the cars cruise down the brick streets of Old Town one by one while the live band plays on the main stage for your entertainment. These amazing cars and motorcycles will be worth the trip alone for those with a true appreciation for America's hotrods.

With so much to see and do be sure to include Old Town into your vacation for an evening of family fun. Also, just minutes away you can stay in an all inclusive vacation home with 5 star luxury amenities at affordable prices. Make your vacation the best it can be.

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Day-tripping to the Beach from Orlando

Orlando tourists looking for Sand, Surf and Sun are only 1 hour away from the "World's Most Famous Beach". Daytona Beach is 23 miles of pure white sand on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. The right to drive and park your car directly on the beach makes it very unique and convenient.

Activities and attractions are prominently found directly on and along the beach. Such activities include ATV rentals allowing 2 people on a 4 wheeler to drive on the sand while sight seeing some of the green turtle nesting areas, sand sculptures or just watching visitors having fun. Boogie board rentals give guests the opportunity to venture out into the surf and try to ride the waves all the way back into shore. Parasailing will allow a birds-eye view of the coastline from 1500 feet in the air. There is always an abundance of available choices whether you are looking for beach chairs and umbrellas to bicycles or maybe just ice-cream, you are almost sure to find it here.

The boardwalk aka Main Street Pier is 1000 feet in length and is the longest pier on the east coast. It offers something for everyone for all ages. Discover some of the thrill rides such as the human sling shot or superman taking tourists high above the midway and dropping at a moment's notice. Leave the fear of heights at home before getting in line. Rides offering a little less adrenaline are the motor go-karts or the 9 minute gondola sky-lift above the boardwalk and the 180 foot space needle observation tower.

The games and video arcade is a place where everyone can find a game of interest and if lucky enough, can redeem tickets for prizes. If the fun and games is not appealing, walk to the end of the pier to watch the fisherman and pelicans compete for the next catch, or rent a fishing pole yourself but be careful.......reports of sharks being caught from the end of the pier are never far away, so keep your eyes open. Also take note that when the sun goes down, the night lights draw even more people in so choose the time wisely.

After a long day at the beach, visitors may want to stay in a Florida vacation home rental and have 5 star amenities at affordable prices. Make vacation memories the best they can be.

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Orlando's All Inclusive Dolphin Experience

Tourists vacationing in the Orlando, Florida area have many choices to make when it comes to entertainment. There are several attractions and theme parks targeted towards the demographics of a worldwide audience of all ages wanting to experience thrills, fun and adventure. One such park you may want to consider is Sea World's sister park of Discovery Cove. Waterfalls, caves, sandy beaches and lush greenery make it feel like a tropical oasis.

Discovery Cove is open daily 9am - 5:30pm and runs on a reservations only policy. You will not find the crowds that you do at other traditional theme parks because they limit the number of guests to 1000 per day. When visiting Discovery Cove, enjoy the all inclusive day which includes a 30 minute dolphin adventure and many extras such as:

• parking
• snorkel gear
• swim vest or wetsuit
• towels
• lockers
• sunscreen
• beach chairs

Breakfast and lunch are also provided along with snacks and beverages throughout the day.

Although the main attraction is the personal dolphin interaction, there are many other activities for tourists throughout the day. Visitors may choose to lounge around the resort pool or take a relaxing swim along the tropical river which could reveal some of the over 250 species of birds from all over the world. However, guests feeling adventurous may want to dive in with the snorkel gear and go for a swim amongst the colorful reefs with the thousands of stingray and exotic fish. You never know, some may even spot a shark or come face to face with a barracuda.

Guests enjoying the lush plantation, surrounding water and limited visitors of Discovery Cove may be interested in a Florida Vacation Home offering a similar experience at affordable prices.

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Great Restaurant for Orlando Tourists

Tourists visiting Disney theme parks often stay and eat in concentrated areas within close proximity of Orlando attractions. However, Orlando has many exceptional restaurants just a short drive from International Drive that are waiting to be discovered. One such establishment frequented by Orlando residents is "Le Coq Au Vin".

This family owned restaurant offers a quaint atmosphere to allow tourists to not only enjoy the French cuisine but also the company of those with you. Although it is relatively small in size, it has gained attention on a grand scale.

In 2006 they received many awards and recognition including one of the best US restaurants from Zagat Survey. Still today they receive many very favorable reviews through established traveler websites detailing guest dining experiences.

Tourists wanting to share this experience would be wise to make reservations in advance. Once there, you will be presented with an extensive list of fine wine that may be ordered by the glass or bottle. When it comes time to order your entrée, try the signature dish that bears their name of "Le Coq Au Vin" and translates into "The Rooster to the Wine". You will notice 2 prices on the menu which is for the full or half portion. This is especially nice if you want to try a couple of different items or just want to make sure there is room for dessert. You may want to indulge in the always a crowd pleaser of chocolate souffle which needs to be ordered with your meal to allow time for it to bake.

Visitors staying in the Orlando, Florida area who want to encounter some of the finest offerings may also want to consider staying in a Florida vacation home. You can stay in luxury accommodations at hotel prices and enjoy Florida like you never have before with 5 star service and amenities all the way.

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