Orlando & Caribbean Multi & Twin Centre Holidays

When planning your multi-centre itinerary, the time of year can have a significant impact on your experience. For Orlando, the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons are a great time to explore the parks without too much intense heat, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C.

Opting for the shoulder seasons in the Caribbean, (in late spring and early autumn), you’ll find temperatures of 23°C to 28°C, giving a balance between affordability and manageable weather conditions - just bear in mind that there may be some occasional showers. In the Caribbean, hurricane season runs from June to November, so the weather may be a little more unpredictable.

Orlando follows the Eastern Time Zone, and so is 5 hours behind the UK during standard time and 4 hours behind during Daylight Saving Time. The Caribbean comprises several countries and territories, and spans across multiple time zones. For example, some parts, like Jamaica, follow the Eastern Time Zone, while others may follow Atlantic Time or other time zones, so be sure to check before you head off. 

For Orlando and Caribbean twin-centre holidays, you’ll usually depart from major UK airports such as London Heathrow Airport (LHR) and London Gatwick Airport (LGW), which have regular flights to the US. You’ll usually fly into Orlando International Airport (MCO) or Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) ahead of embarking on your Orlando multi-centre itinerary.

When planning your Caribbean multi-centre itinerary, your airport choice will depend on the destination you choose. Airports like Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay, Jamaica, Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI) in Barbados, and Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA) in Aruba, among others, are popular choices for tourists.

Plan your trip well in advance and secure your price up to 36 months ahead with the option to make an initial low deposit, ensuring a fixed rate. Then, you can manage the remaining payments through convenient instalments, making your travel planning hassle-free and budget-friendly.

For an easy and direct journey, opting for a flight is the most popular choice. Several airlines operate regular flights from Orlando International Airport (MCO) or Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) to major Caribbean destinations, and the flight time is usually around 3-4 hours, depending on where you’re going. 

You’ll be spoilt for choice in the Caribbean - there are so many gorgeous destinations to choose from. Aruba is known for its lively nightlife and vibrant beaches and so appeals to those seeking an energetic atmosphere. Barbados is a popular choice, and gives a great balance of relaxation and adventure, making it perfect for those interested in cultural exploration and serene beach experiences. Jamaica has stunning natural beauty as well as cultural richness, so it’s great for both beach enthusiasts and adventure seekers. St. Lucia's epic, picturesque landscapes make for a romantic setting that attracts couples and honeymooners in search of a serene and breathtaking retreat. Finally, Turks and Caicos has an exclusive feel, so if you’re looking for upscale resorts and unspoiled beachfronts, this is a great choice. 

While travelling to the Caribbean during hurricane season is certainly an option, it’s important to be aware of what it entails. This period, which typically spans from June to November, tends to have more attractive deals and lower tourist traffic, but it also comes with the possibility of encountering severe weather conditions, including tropical storms and hurricanes. 

During the Caribbean's hurricane season, the weather can be a little unpredictable - there’s usually a mix of sunny and rainy days, depending on your location. While the region experiences heightened tropical activity during this period, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll have continuous rain or storms throughout the season. 

Destinations like Aruba and Bonaire are located outside of the traditional hurricane belt, and so often have minimal rainfall and consistently nice temperatures. In contrast, areas like the Dominican Republic and Jamaica may have more rain and occasional storms, particularly in the later months of the season. While these destinations can still have periods of sunshine and warm temperatures, it's essential to remain prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions and the possibility of tropical storms or hurricanes. 

Crafting an affordable trip to Orlando is certainly possible, but involves strategic planning. 

Exploring the city's numerous public parks and gardens, such as Lake Eola Park and Harry P. Leu Gardens is a great way to make the most of the weather and enjoy some free outdoor activities. Additionally, you can keep costs down when eating out by making the most of the diverse array of dining options, including local food trucks and budget-friendly eateries. 

Opting for accommodations located slightly outside the bustling theme park areas, such as hotels or rentals in the nearby suburbs, can often be more budget-friendly, despite still being close to the major attractions. 

To further reduce costs, consider more budget-friendly transport options, such as using the Lynx bus service to minimise your travel expenses within the city. 

For the theme parks, look into combo tickets or discounted packages for multiple theme parks or attractions to help your money go further. Additionally, planning ahead and leveraging off-peak seasons or promotional offers can significantly reduce your overall trip costs. When you’re at the parks, be sure to bring your own snacks and water bottles to avoid spending too much throughout the day. 

Orlando has a vibrant culinary scene with plenty of options to cater to a diverse range of tastes. A beloved local specialty is the Florida key lime pie, known for its perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavours, crafted with a crumbly graham cracker crust and a zingy layer of citrus-infused custard. 

Another popular treat is the Cuban sandwich, which has layers of roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard pressed between crispy Cuban bread, delivering a mouthwatering blend of savoury and tangy notes in every bite.

Conch fritters, a Bahamian-inspired dish, are a delectable combination of minced conch meat, bell peppers, and spices, deep-fried to a golden brown and served with zesty dipping sauces. For a sweet end to a meal, indulging in a warm and freshly made orange blossom honey cake, infused with the fragrant essence of local citrus, provides a delightful taste of Florida's natural abundance. 

One of the most popular water parks in Orlando is Typhoon Lagoon, known for its massive wave pool, exhilarating water slides, and a lazy river that winds through a lush tropical landscape. 

Another favourite is Blizzard Beach, a winter-themed water park with epic slides, a sprawling family raft ride, and a one-acre wave pool that gives the experience of surfing in the ocean. 

Aquatica, SeaWorld's Waterpark, is another top spot, with a variety of water slides, wave pools, and interactive animal experiences, allowing guests to enjoy a blend of adrenaline-pumping rides and up-close encounters with marine life. 

Finally, Discovery Cove is an exclusive and immersive once-in-a-lifetime water park experience, allowing guests to swim with dolphins, snorkel with tropical fish, and relax in pristine lagoons. 

Whichever you choose, all of the above are worthy of a top-spot on your Orlando multi-centre itinerary!