Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
322
Tips
Ship It
Because Orlando is geared to travelers, many retailers offer to ship packages
home for a few dollars more (Disney definitely does). So, if you're pondering an
extra-large purchase, or even just one you would rather not have to carry, ask. If a
retailer doesn't offer such a service, check with your hotel. Many a concierge or
business center staffer can arrange a pickup by United Parcel Service, the U.S.
Postal Service, or another carrier. Anything's better than dragging that 6-foot
stuffed Pluto through the friendly skies.
Many Orlando area stores, particularly those in malls or other shopping centers, are
usually open from 9 or 10am until 9 or 10pm Monday through Saturday, and from noon
to 6pm on Sunday. It is always best to check before you go, as hours, like those at the
parks, can change during the holidays, as well as seasonally. Sales tax in Osceola County,
which includes Kissimmee, the U.S. 192 corridor, and
all of Disney's All-Star resorts,
is
7%. In Orange County, which includes the International Drive area, SeaWorld, Univer-
sal Orlando, most (but not all) of Disney World, and most of the lesser attractions, it's
6.5%. In Seminole County, about 40 miles north of Walt Disney World, the rate is 7%.
No matter where you are, plan on adding a few extra dollars in taxes to your bill when
you get to the cash register.
One thing that's no different here than the rest of the country: If you arrive during the
holiday season, from the end of November to January 1, it's best to avoid local shopping
malls, especially on weekends. They're just as crazy and crowded as those back home—
maybe even worse. And no matter what time of year it is, don't leave your good judgment
at the door when you're shopping the outlet malls. Although there are some good bar-
gains to be found, the prices on many items aren't really much better than you can find
at home in many cases. The selection, however, may be much larger than you're used
to—especially if you're from outside the United States. Remember, though, that you still
have to get it home with you somehow, so if you can buy the same item at home, do you
really want to have to carry it all the way from Florida?
GREAT SHOPPING AREAS
CELEBRATION
Though not the best place to head if you're the shop-'til-you-drop
type, this is a rather pleasant spot to stroll leisurely along quaint streets filled with quaint
upscale shops, coffeehouses, and restaurants. Celebration, after all, is a Disney-designed
community, making it practically the perfect little town (or a facsimile thereof ). It's a
throwback to mid-20th-century mainstream America, when main-street shopping was
in style. Market Street and the area just surrounding it are home to a dozen or so shops,
a couple of art galleries, a handful of restaurants, and a three-screen movie theater. The
storefronts, especially the galleries and gift shops, offer interesting and unique merchan-
dise, though you'll find that there's a price to pay for perfection. Stores here include the
Market Street Gallery
(Swarovski crystal, all types of collectibles, home decor, Yankee
Candles, Christmas decorations, and more);
Day Dream's
(a shop filled top to bottom
with dolls, teddy bears, books and gift items);
Soft as a Grape
(a shop filled with comfy
100% cotton resort wear for the entire family); the
Village Mercantile
(featuring Brigh-
ton accessories and apparel by Tommy Bahama, Quicksilver, and Oakley); the
Lollipop
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