Can we get by without a rental car?

[kerri0616]

In an attempt to save money, I'm considering not renting a car (on-site, of course).

How can we get from MCO to Univ Resorts? Cost?

Will we feel trapped and limited in food choices? (Sometimes you just want to go to Denny's for breakfast since its so reasonable.)

Opinions, please?

Kerri

 

[CherCrazy]

You didn't say where you are staying.

Some resorts outside of WDW have busses that will take you to Universal. I think Mears does some pick ups too, or at least they did in the past.

I once had to take a cab from Universal to a Marriott near Sea World. I told the cab driver the wrong resort and we drove around for an hour...it was about $45. Now, if you're unlike me and know where you're going, it's probably only $15 - $20 each way.

But then, how are you getting from the airport to the hotel? That can be expensive too, unless you're onsite at WDW and using the Magical Express.

It's hard without a car. But, it can be done. Hey, if you get too bothered by not having one, you can always rent one while you're there.

 

[RUDisney]

There are many people who will have first hand and current knowledge of how to do what you are asking on the Transportation Board. We always go there to get the best deal information before we go. I'll be there soon, myself.

We always have a town car service pick us up at the airport, take us to a grocery store for 1/2 hour to stock up on drinks, breakfasts and snacks and then take us to the resort of our choice. Typically we stay at BWV, so we have a fridge and microwave.

However, this time we will be staying at PBH. I plan to do the same as I would with WDW. We'll get some breakfast foods and drinks that can be kept cold with ice, or iced when we need them. We'll probably opt out of cereal since we won't have a way to keep our milk cold, but we all like breakfast and granola bars and fruit.

A towncar service will meet you at the baggage claim area and will help you with your luggage and get you to your resort and back for about $100-$110 including the tips. Much better than renting a car and paying for parking, IMHO.

So, check out the transportation board for additonal information and have fun on your vacation!

 

[clownboy007]

I've always found it more convenient to rent a car...but when I travel it's usually on business so my needs are different.

I know you're probably aware of this but if you decide to rent, be sure that you reserve a car with one of the off-site (from the airport) companies like Entertprise or Thrifty. The rental companies that have counters inside the terminal pay big fees to be there...and therefore, pass the cost on to you. The off-site companies all have shuttles that pick up at the airport and take you to their offices which are adjacent to the airport property. Just call from the phones at baggage claim (free call) and they'll tell you where to meet the shuttle.

As to your other question regarding dining choices, there are several non-Universal options within walking distance of the resort...just be careful crossing Kirkman Road...Cracker Barrel, TGI Friday's, and Golden Corral, Carraba's, and IHOP are all within that general vicinity (p.s. I don't eat at the Denny's over there anymore because the service has always been rotten).