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Shopping

Of course, you can’t visit Orlando and not mention the chance to become a world-class shopper at some stage in your stay. This region of Central Florida boasts just about every type of discount outlet under the sun, in addition to some superb malls.

PRO SPOT: While many people gravitate to one of the many Wal-Mart SuperCenters in central Florida – and their discount warehouse style is hard to avoid – we rate the Ross and Marshalls stores as some of the best value anywhere. From artwork to T-shirts, their range of goods varies on a daily basis and can be tough to wade through, but there is a mountain of quality merchandise on offer – and that’s not something the bargain-basement Wal-Mart can usually brag about!

Mall at Millenia is still the jewel in the crown, but Prime Outlets (formerly Belz Factory Outlet World) off West Oak Ridge Road and International Drive (near Festival Bay) began a $150million renovation in 2007 and is now a serious contender in the Orlando shopping scene.
Opened in two phases (Phase 1 in August 2007, Phase 2 in Spring 2008), the ‘lifestyle centere’ features Central Florida’s only Neiman Marcus Last Call Clearance Center, plus Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5th, Polo Ralph Lauren, Kenneth Cole, Perry Ellis, Tommy Hilfiger, Converse, Nike, Adidas and Reebok, as well as dozens of other designer names both familiar and new to Brits. There is even a Disney Character Warehouse for some exceptional discounts on those all-important Disney souvenirs.

Once both phases are fully occupied, the centre will boast 185 shopping and dining outlets, with designer names found at Phase One, mainstream brands, including Banana Republic Factory Store, Brooks Brothers, J. Crew, Bath and Body Works, Kate Spade at Phase Two.

Winter Garden Village at Fowler Groves on Daniels Rd, just off of Hwy 429, opened in late 2007, adding 40 well-known retail outlets, including some of our favourites, including Kirkland’s, Haverty’s, World Market, Super Target, Barnes & Noble, Joann’s craft store, Best Buy, Lowe’s home improvement center, Marshall’s and Victoria’s Secret.

The open-air centre has a ‘village square’ feel, with communal areas spread throughout, giving weary shoppers a place to sit and catch their breath. Along the centre’s periphery, 20 dining outlets include Chili’s, Cold Stone Creamery, Macaroni Grill, Panera Bread, Cracker Barrel, Mimi’s Café, fast-food options and the inevitable Starbucks.

There is simply nowhere else in the world like Orlando for keeping you fully occupied, amazed and amused at the same time, as well as making you feel welcome whether it’s your first visit or your 20th. It all adds up to the best possible holiday entertainment, with more excitement and value for your dollar than ever before. And don’t forget to check back here at regular intervals as we will continue to bring you all the latest developments direct from the heart of the magic. But don’t just take our word for it - get out here and see for yourself…………!

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