Ah, Florida. The sunshine state. While the state seems to call to mind beaches, golf, and old people (all three of which are quite plentiful actually), the large tourist city of Orlando brings forth images of Mickey Mouse, Spiderman, and the soon-to-be-completed Hogwarts Castle. But the nickname ‘sunshine state’ is, as visitors soon discover, just a bit misleading.
Orlando has hot, generally humid summers. It’s great for people who tan well, but can be a bit painful for those people who turn into peeling lobsters instead. As for the sunshine state part… well.
Florida has very sunny summers, but there are usually about four ‘summer rains’ per week. A summer rain can last from a few minutes to a few hours, but generally no more than that. Almost as soon as they started, they’re over- and often it’s still sunny even as it’s raining! The good part is that many theme park attractions stay open, and when the crowds run for cover you can have many rides all to yourself.
To get the most out of your Orlando vacation, there are a few essential items. Ready, everyone?
1) Sunscreen. It may seem trivial, but it could be the difference between a great Orlando theme park vacation and a painful one.
2) A poncho. 24-hour stores all over Orlando, such as Walgreens, usually sell these, and for much cheaper than at the theme parks. Also related: a change of clothing can’t hurt.
3) Water. You can get it for free at pretty much any restaurant or food counter, though the smaller food stands might not have any. Just ask for a cup of water. Or be smart about it and bring your own water bottle, refillable with cups of ice or at water fountains. The most dangerous part of the Florida heat is dehydration.
Follow these tips and make the best of your Orlando vacation!