Single mom vacation in Florida

[Hallo from Sweden]

Good evening from Sweden !

We are (I think) 6 hours ahead of you. I have written on some of the other forums but never on this particular one (what does community board stand for ?).
But it seemed ok to send in a question here which is not directly related to Disney.
I will be travelling on my own with my two children 10,12 in Florida for 3 weeks, beginning the week before christmas and going back home on the 9th of january. We will start at Orlando (the Dolphin) where wll stay for 6 nights, then we´ll go down to the Keys by rental car and stay near Marathon for a week, after that to Fort Lauderdale, 6 days and then back to Orlando for 3 days.
I have already booked our hotels but I would gladly take any advice on what to do and see and do you think I´m totally crazy to be doing this trip on my own. What shall I look out for ?
I have been to the United States 5-6 times during the last 20 years som I´m not a total beginner but haveb´t been there since my oldest child was born.
One thing is, we booked tickets for an NHL icehockeygame in Fort Lauderdale, is it safe going to and from your car or should I use public transportation instead, we´ll be staying near the beach and Las Olas Blvd.
The FL hotel says it´s within walkingdistance from restaurants and shopping but would you walk at night, not very late but say until 9 ?
I stop here otherwise it´ll be to long.
Regards
Annika

 

[Pebblszzz]

If you're nervous about parking (after dark), why don't you consider using valet? I would stay off the bus, but a taxi would be ok.

You'll know how safe you feel once you arrive. I don't know where exactly in Ft. Lauderdale you'll be staying, but most areas are pretty decent, so just go outside after dark and see how you feel about it.

As for the Keys, I'd stay longer, and even make my way down to Key West. It'll be an unforgettable experience for you and your kids. The drive is almost as nice as getting there. There's a bridge that is 7 miles long and has the most magnificent views as you cross it (tip: rent a convertible for this part of the trip!).

If I had to choose, I'd skip Ft. Lauderdale entirely, and spend my time in the Keys.

Feel free to PM me with any specific questions.

And no, you are not crazy. You guys will have a blast!

Have a great trip!

 

[Mackey Mouse]

Annika.. you might also want to post this on the Orlando hotel board.. I am thinking that you need a Floridian in here to answer your questions.. At any rate, here is that link... http://disboards.com/forumdisplay.php?forumid=15

and the Community Board is where we come and talk about whatever we want within guidelines.. Family related, work related, Disney or not........

Welcome, I hope someone can answer your questions. if you were asking about Boston, MA, I could help.......... about WDW, you will be very comfortable at the Dolphin Resort, very safe and enjoyable with your children. One more thought, I did visit the Keys and found it very unusual, enjoyable, layback and fun.. I have never been to Ft. Lauderdale.. but I am glad to see some Floridians stepping up to the plate here.

Thanks Pebs........

 

[olena]

Welcome to the Community Board, Annika!

We talk about all kinds of topics here, so feel free to visit and post more...

I hope you have a nagical trip. It sounds wonderful already!