When dining in Orlando restaurants, the standard tipping etiquette for good service is to leave a gratuity of 18% to 22% of the pre-tax bill. As a UK resident, you should budget for this amount, ensuring you allocate an extra $18 to $22 for every $100 spent on full-service dining.

The US vs. UK Tipping Culture: Understanding the Difference

Understanding Orlando’s tipping culture can be a daunting aspect for many U.K. visitors. This system differs greatly from the U.K. For U.K. customers, a tip is a bonus for truly exceptional service. In Orlando, and across America, tipping often functions as a mandatory part of a service worker’s wage

Why are we Paying Part of the Server’s Wage?

Tipping isn’t obligatory; you won’t be arrested for not leaving one. However, U.K. visitors must understand this: U.S. employment laws are vastly different from those in the U.K.

Those differences allow employers to pay their workers a much lower ”tipped minimum wage”. In simple terms, this allows the employer to pay a member of staff a reduced basic wage, assuming that gratuities will make up the rest of it.

I’ve visited the USA over 50 times and still struggle to fully understand tipping. Why am I, as a customer, responsible for providing part of the server’s income? That’s just the reality in the USA

How Much to Tip? The Orlando Restaurant Formula

The place where you eat greatly affects how much you should tip. Here are just some examples of the different eating experiences and their associated gratuity rates.

• Standard Table Service: State the expectation: 18% to 22% for good service (15% for simply acceptable/average).
• Buffets: A lower percentage, e.g., 10%, because the server is only handling drinks and plate clearing.
• Bartenders: A flat rate, e.g., $1 to $2 per drink (more for complex cocktails).

Don’t worry if working out percentages causes you concern, almost all of eateries and bars in my experience include this information on their receipts, saving you the time and effort.

Alternatively, if you pay you bill on a debit or credit card, then most card machines clearly show the percentage options. You simply press for your preferred tip amount ahead of completing payment.

One thing to be aware of is that many restaurants add an automatic gratuity/service charge for parties of six or more. In such an event, you do not have to add any further gratuity to your bill, and if you disagree with the amount added, you can raise the matter with the manager.

Who Gets the Tip?

Typically your server does not get to keep 100% of the cash or credit card tip you leave them. Instead, the tips they receive are generally subject to a practice called tip pooling or tipping out, which the USA employment laws again link to.

Here is an example of how tip pooling or tipping out works.

• The pool is shared among staff who customarily and regularly receive tips and help with the service. This usually includes:
• Bussers (The Busser’s main responsibility is to clear, clean, and reset tables, ensuring the dining area is ready for the next customer. They focus on maintaining the physical space of the restaurant).
• Runners (The Runner’s main responsibility is to expedite the food from the kitchen to the customer’s table quickly and accurately. They act as the link between the kitchen and the dining room).
• Service Bartenders (who prepare drinks for the dining area)
• Hosts/Hostesses (depending on their duties)

The following staff are strictly prohibited from keeping any portion of the tip pool.

• Restaurant Managers
• Restaurant Supervisors
• Restaurant Owners

It is also worth pointing out that if you pay your gratuity by credit card, the employer can legally deduct the credit card processing fee (usually around 2-3%) from the total tip before passing it on to the employee. This is something to be aware of, as you may prefer to leave a cash tip instead.

When NOT to Tip (and the “Gray Areas”)

In order to try and provide some clarity t U.K visitors around the confusion of when to tip in Orlando. Here are some scenarios that do not warrant tipping, although the option is there if you feel it appropriate.

• Fast-food counters, most quick-service restaurants (where you order and pick up your own food)
• Coffee shops (though a tip jar may be present)
• The Disney/Universal Rule: Cast Members/Team Members in non-restaurant roles (ride attendants, store clerks) generally cannot accept tips.
• Retail Staff, places such as supermarkets or petrol stations do not require any tips to be paid to staff.

What to Do When Service is Subpar (The Diplomatic Exit)

Okay so let us deal with the elephant in the room, when service is below par or worse, what are your options. They key here is remaining calm and objective throughout. here are my suggestions based on my experiences of having had very or extremely poor service.

1. Do not simply leave a low tip without saying anything; it is often interpreted as being cheap or ignorant. Have you say, explain why you have come to this decision by providing clear examples of poor service. It is often best to bring any issues to the attention of your server as they occur, that way you are making them aware of the likelihood of a reduced tip.

• Politely ask to speak to the manager before you pay. Explain the issue, and then mention that you have adjusted your gratuity accordingly. I have found this to be the best option.

Remember: If your service was good but the food was below the standard you reasonably expected, then address this with the manager, but still give the server a reduced tip (e.g., 10%) for their effort.

Tipping In Orlando

To provide you with a broader overview of the services which warrants consideration of a gratuity whilst in Orlando, I have prepared a list of some of the other popular services which you may experience during your holiday.

• Hotel Housekeeping $3 to $5 USD per day per room. Leave cash in a visible spot (like on the pillow) with a note saying “Thank You Housekeeping,” as the staff often changes daily.
• Hotel Bellhop/Porters $2 to $3 USD per bag. Tip when they deliver the bags to your room, or when they assist you with checking luggage.
• Taxi/Uber/Lyft 15% to 20% of the total fare. The in-app tip options on ride-share apps are the easiest way to manage this.
• Delivery Drivers (e.g., Pizza/Takeaway) $5 USD minimum or 20% of the order, whichever is higher. Essential, as drivers use their own petrol and vehicle maintenance is their responsibility

Why not use our interactive map of Orlando villas to find your perfect Florida vacation rental.

Villas in Orlando near Disney

For UK families heading to Florida, choosing the right base is as crucial as picking your theme park tickets. However, nothing rivals the space, privacy, and exceptional value of a luxury vacation villa in Kissimmee. Just a stone’s throw from the world’s most famous theme parks, Kissimmee offers the perfect ‘home away from home’ experience, thereby ensuring your precious annual holiday is one of relaxation, convenience, and magic.

Why Kissimmee is the UK Family Favourite for Villas

UK holidaymakers consistently choose villas in Kissimmee for their unbeatable combination of location and luxury. Specifically, the following benefits stand out:

Space and Privacy: Forget cramming into two hotel rooms. Instead, Villas in Kissimmee feature multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen (consequently saving a fortune on dining out), and spacious living areas.

• Your Own Pool: The ultimate holiday luxury! In fact, most villas in Kissimmee feature a private, screened-in swimming pool and spa. This is perfect for a cool-down dip after a busy park day or a relaxing evening under the Florida sky—plus, there’s no need to fight for a sun lounger!
• Resort Amenities: Many villas in Kissimmee are situated within secure, gated resort communities (for example, Windsor Hills or Champions Gate). As a result, these complexes often offer incredible communal facilities, including lazy rivers, water parks, clubhouses, on-site dining, and gyms—thus adding resort luxury to your private villa stay.
• Entertainment Built-In: Many villas in Kissimmee cater specifically to families with games rooms (featuring pool tables, air hockey, and arcade machines) and sometimes even home cinemas, which means providing fantastic entertainment on your designated rest days.

Getting There and Getting Around: Travel Times for UK Guests

For a UK holidaymaker, hiring a car is highly recommended to make the most of your villa and the surrounding attractions. Therefore, be sure to review the travel times below.

Airport	Primary Airlines (UK)	Approximate Driving Time to Villas in Kissimmee	Key Benefit
Orlando International (MCO)	Virgin Atlantic, British Airways, Norse Atlantic UK, Aer Lingus	25 – 35 minutes	The main international gateway; consequently, generally the quickest and most direct transfer to the villas in Kissimmee.
Tampa International (TPA)	British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Norse Atlantic UK	1 hour 20 minutes – 1 hour 40 minutes	Excellent option for a multi-centre holiday, allowing you to combine parks with Florida’s West Coast beaches and attractions like Busch Gardens.
Melbourne Orlando International (MLB)	TUI Airways	1 hour – 1 hour 20 minutes	A smaller, less busy option often used by charter flights, providing a scenic drive from the coast.

Drive Times to the Major Attractions from Villas in Kissimmee

One of Kissimmee’s biggest draws is its proximity to the theme parks. In other words, your villa will place you in the heart of the action with minimal daily driving.

Major Attraction	Approximate Driving Time from Villas in Kissimmee	Key Park/Attraction
Walt Disney World Resort	10 – 20 minutes	Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, Water Parks
Universal Orlando Resort	20 – 30 minutes	Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure (The Wizarding World of Harry Potter), Volcano Bay
SeaWorld Orlando & Discovery Cove	20 – 25 minutes	Marine-themed shows, thrilling rides, and unique animal encounters
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay	1 hour 15 minutes – 1 hour 30 minutes	World-class rollercoasters and an excellent zoo environment
I-Drive Area	20 – 30 minutes	Home to Icon Park (The Wheel), shopping, and diverse restaurants

Breaking Up the Parks: Local Kissimmee Gems

Alternatively, give your family a break from the theme park queues with these local highlights, which are minutes from your villas in Kissimmee:

• Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures: A truly Floridian experience! Glide across the wetlands and spot alligators, turtles, and local birds up close—truly a perfect antidote to a day of rides.
• Old Town Kissimmee: A slice of classic Americana featuring charming shops, unique eateries, carnival rides, and the famous Saturday night car cruises. Moreover, it offers a lovely change of pace.
• Kissimmee Lakefront Park: Ideal for a relaxing morning picnic, hiring a paddleboat, or simply watching the local wildlife by the water. This means it’s perfect for a designated rest day.

By choosing a villa in Kissimmee, you secure a luxurious, spacious, and conveniently located home base that ultimately gives your UK family the freedom to explore Central Florida at your own pace. In conclusion, book one of the incredible villas in Kissimmee with a private pool, and you’ve secured the key ingredient to a stress-free and truly magical Orlando holiday.

Ready to trade in a cramped hotel room for the space and luxury of your own Florida retreat? Whether you dream of a Villa in Kissimmee with a private pool villa minutes from Disney or a quiet resort home with family-friendly amenities, your perfect getaway starts here. Don’t waste time sifting through endless listings—our intuitive website is the ideal starting point for your search, featuring a curated selection of stunning villas in Kissimmee. Take the first step toward an unforgettable vacation by exploring our collection and securing your home-away-from-home today!

Why not try our interactive map to find your perfect Villa in Kissimmee. Or perhaps you would like to check out our article Florida Villas, Booking with confidence for more information about how Direct Villas Florida verifies their listings.

Say it ain’t so! After years of rumours, the iconic, bone-shaking attraction Dinosaur at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is finally facing its own asteroid. Disney confirmed the thrilling time-travel adventure will close on February 2, 2026.

But don’t panic! This isn’t just an extinction event. It’s a metamorphosis! The space is being completely re-imagined. It will become part of a brand new land: the vibrant Tropical Americas (Pueblo Esperanza). This new area is slated to open in 2027.

From Iguanodon to Indy

Many of us have spent years being violently thrashed around in a Time Rover. We raced against an incoming meteor to save an Iguanodon at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. (Thanks a lot, Dr. Seeker!) This news is bittersweet.

Here’s a fun fact that makes the change a natural fit: The Dinosaur ride and the famous Indiana Jones Adventure in Disneyland use the exact same Enhanced Motion Vehicle (EMV) technology and a near-identical track layout. You’ve essentially been riding a dinosaur-themed Indy ride all along!

The new version will complete the family resemblance. It’s set to become a new Indiana Jones adventure inside a mysterious Mayan temple. We hear it will be unlike any Indy experience you’ve seen before. That’s great, because who doesn’t want a new thrilling adventure where a giant snake might appear?

The Last Chance to Ride

If you want one last chance to yell “WE’RE NOT GONNA MAKE IT!” at the top of your lungs, you have until February 1, 2026. That will be the ride’s final day of operation. After that, your Time Rover will be grounded indefinitely.

The new Tropical Americas land is a massive project. It will completely re-imagine Dino Land U.S.A at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. It will also feature the first-ever ride-through attraction based on Disney’s Encanto. While the Indiana Jones attraction will re-use the former Dinosaur structure, the whole land is expected to be a stunning new addition to Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

So, get your last ride photos. Say goodbye to the massive Carnotaurus that jumps out in the dark. Prepare to trade in your palaeontologists’ tools for a fedora and a whip. The age of the dinosaur is ending, but a whole new adventure awaits in 2027!

Why not use our interactive map to see our Florida Villas near Walt Disney World Florida

 What to know before going to Florida?

Booking the various elements of your Florida holiday separately can potentially save you money and offer greater flexibility. However, if you decide to ‘go it alone,’ you must know your rights and ensure you secure the necessary consumer protection and security.

Consumer Protection and Separately Booked Trips

While independent booking offers flexibility, you must clearly understand the level of consumer protection you are receiving.

Package vs. Separate Booking Protection

• Package Holiday Protection (ATOL/PTR): The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 (PTRs) protect package holidays. A package combines at least two travel services (like a flight and accommodation) sold together. For flight-inclusive packages, the Air Travel Organiser’s Licence (ATOL) scheme protects you, ensuring a refund or repatriation if the organiser fails.
• Linked Travel Arrangements (LTAs): A Linked Travel Arrangement (LTA) offers limited insolvency protection. This may apply when a trader prompts you to book another travel service immediately after the first (e.g., booking a hotel through the airline’s website right after your flight).
• Booking Separately: When you book flights, hotels, and car hire entirely separately, you do not benefit from package holiday protection. Your security depends on individual providers and your payment method.

The Vital Role of Section 75 Protection

You should always pay for any element costing over £100 up to £30,000 using a credit card. Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act 1974 then makes the card provider jointly responsible with the seller. This offers a vital layer of financial protection if the service provider fails.

Conditions for Section 75 Protection:

1. Direct Relationship: Section 75 generally requires a direct link between the buyer, the seller, and the credit card provider (a three-party agreement). It often does not apply if a fourth party, such as a third-party payment processor (like certain uses of PayPal) or an agent, breaks this direct relationship.
2. Single Item Price: The price limit applies to the cost of a single item or service. If you buy two items costing £75 each (total £150), they would generally not be covered, as neither item’s cash price exceeds £100.
3. Credit Only: The protection only applies when you use a credit card (or certain other regulated credit arrangements), not a debit card.

Your Rights for Flight Delays and Cancellations

The UK-retained European law, UK Regulation (EC) No 261/2004, governs compensation rights for flights from the UK. This law strengthens passengers’ positions and requires the airline to compensate for long delays, cancellations, or denied boarding if the airline controls the circumstances.

Delays, Care, and Refunds

Compensation applies if the flight arrives over three hours late due to a reason the airline controls (e.g., technical faults, crew issues).

• Eligibility: The regulation covers:
• Flights departing from a UK airport (on any airline).
• Flights arriving at a UK airport on a UK/EU airline.
• Right to Care: For long-haul UK to Florida flights, the airline must provide care after a four-hour delay, regardless of the reason. This includes meals, refreshments, and two complimentary communications.
• Overnight Delays: If a delay requires an overnight stay, the airline must provide and pay for hotel accommodation and airport transport.
• Five-Hour Delays: If your flight is delayed by five hours or more, you have the right to a full refund for the unused part of the journey, plus a free flight back to your original point of departure if your onward journey is pointless.

Compensation Amounts and Denied Boarding

Long-Haul Compensation (UK to Florida)

The fixed compensation depends on the arrival delay time, provided the airline caused the delay:

• 3 to 4 hour delay: £260 per person.
• 4 hours or more delay: £520 per person.

Denied Boarding (Overbooked Flights): If an airline involuntarily denies you boarding, you are immediately entitled to compensation. You choose between a full refund/return flight or re-routing on an alternative flight, plus the fixed compensation amount.

Key Conditions for Compensation Eligibility

To be eligible for this financial compensation, the following key conditions must be met:

1. Arrival Time is Key: The delay is measured by the time the aircraft doors open at the final destination, not the departure time.
2. Flight Coverage: The flight must have departed from a UK airport (on any airline) or arrived at a UK airport on a UK or EU-licensed airline. A flight from the UK to Florida is covered.
3. Airline Fault: The delay must be the airline’s fault. You are not entitled to compensation if the delay was caused by “extraordinary circumstances,” such as:
   • Severe weather conditions.
   • Air traffic control strikes.
   • Political instability or security risks.
4. Long-Haul Distance: The flight distance must be more than 3,500 km. Flights between the UK and Florida easily meet this criterion.

Note: The compensation amounts are fixed and are paid per passenger, regardless of the price of the ticket. If an airline refuses to pay out, you can refer your complaint to the relevant body, such as the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

Florida Villas Verification Process: How Direct Villas Florida Verifies Listings

Choosing a Florida villa rental for your vacation offers unparalleled flexibility, space, and freedom. This applies whether you pick an ocean-view apartment on the Gulf Coast, a resort-style Florida town house in Orlando, or a detached Florida villa with a private pool. Finding your dream Florida vacation rental is just the first step. However, the next question is: how can you be sure you’re booking safely? Therefore, this guide provides prospective holidaymakers with the benefits of direct booking. Crucially, it also outlines the essential steps to ensure your chosen Florida rental property is genuine.

The Advantages of Booking Your Florida Villa Direct

Booking directly with the property owner or manager cuts out the middleman. Consequently, this gives you access to the very best prices. This, in turn, allows your vacation budget to stretch further. This direct relationship means you can often afford little extra luxuries. These might not come with a standard hotel package.

Furthermore, beyond savings, booking direct gives you access to an invaluable resource: the owner. They are a fantastic source of local information and travel tips. They can help you make the most of your time right from day one. Since it’s their holiday home too, they are highly motivated to share up-to-date knowledge. This includes everything from must-see attractions to advice on sourcing flights or attraction tickets.

Moreover, booking a Florida villa direct has another huge advantage over booking through a travel agency. Specifically, you know the exact property location before you arrive. You can confirm the community details, like if it’s gated. You also know the inside layout, the property’s facilities, and the pool area’s aspect. In contrast, a travel agency allocates Florida villas upon arrival, which completely differs from direct booking.

How to Verify a Florida Rental Property and Owner

Worrying about internet scams is natural in the age of online booking. Thus, a little upfront research is crucial. This helps you avoid the nightmare of a non-existent or double-booked property. Below are some steps you can take to confirm you are dealing with a genuine owner:

1. Check for Genuine Reviews and History

Established websites often feature owners who have advertised since the beginning. Therefore, look for listings with genuine reviews from previous guests. A multi-year track record of positive feedback strongly indicates a trustworthy owner and property.

For example, Direct Villas Florida only allows star-rated reviews from guests who enquire and book via their website. As a result, this ensures a significant level of credibility and value for each review. Additionally, property owners can include a maximum of three testimonials on their listing. These are reviews from guests who booked elsewhere, like another website or platform. These reviews do not include a star rating. Instead, the review area clearly identifies them by wording that explains the property owner added them.

2. Make Direct Contact

Importantly, call the owner using the contact number provided on the advert before exchanging any money. A phone call serves multiple important purposes:

It helps confirm their identity and payment details.

It allows you to ask any final questions about the property or area.

It establishes a personal connection, which builds confidence.

3. Request a Rental Agreement

Finally, always ask for a formal rental agreement. This is an essential document. It clearly outlines the owner or manager’s specific payment policies, cancellation terms, and the property’s house rules. A legitimate owner will always provide one.

Safe Payment Methods for Your Booking

Your payment method can offer an extra layer of protection against fraud.

Preferred Methods: Some owners accept credit card payments or use services like PayPal. These methods may offer you additional buyer protection if issues arise with your booking. Always check with your card company or service provider about their specific coverage.

Avoid These Methods: Never pay by cash in advance or use instant money transfer services such as Western Union or Money Corp. Because these payment methods are highly susceptible to fraudulent activity, they offer no recourse if something goes wrong.

If an online payment option isn’t available, then consult your own bank for advice. They can recommend the safest way to transfer money securely.

Direct Villas Florida: Free Owner Verification Service

If you still have lingering concerns about booking direct, some platforms offer services to put you at ease. For instance, Direct Villas Florida provides a completely free verification service. This gives you peace of mind before you confirm your booking.

Once you find your ideal vacation home, confirm the dates, and agree on the price, you can request these free-of-charge checks:

Legal Owner Confirmation: They confirm the legal owner using data held by the relevant local government department in Florida.

Outstanding Matters Check: They check for any outstanding matters registered against the legal owner with the relevant County Court in Florida.

Data Match Confirmation: They confirm that the data gathered from the government departments matches the information the property owner provided.

Confirmation of a Valid Vacation Rental License.

To use this service, simply contact them. Provide the property ID, the name as featured on the site, and the name of the person you have been corresponding with. They will respond by email to confirm all of the above for you. Ultimately, this quick check aims to remove any doubt, no matter how small. It allows you to move forward and book your ideal Florida vacation rental with total confidence.

Ready to find your perfect, verified Florida escape? Start browsing our Florida vacation rentals today and book with complete confidence!

Check out our article on Orlando villas in Kissimmee, were we drill down on the benefits of this great location near to the major Florida theme parks and attractions.

It Doesn’t Have to Cost a Fortune

Villas to rent in Florida

Check out our article Florida Villas, Booking with confidence for more information about how Direct Villas Florida verifies their listings

Simply put… Yes, it does, if you feel strongly about it. Deciding on a gated community for your Florida villa rental depends entirely on your priorities.  Florida villas in a gated community can offer enhanced security, peace of mind, and access to exclusive resort-style amenities like communal pools, clubhouses, and fitness centres—a major draw for family holidays. However, excellent non-gated options still provide privacy, a private pool, and close proximity to attractions. While gated access adds a layer of safety and exclusivity that many travellers prefer, you can secure a great vacation rental in a non-gated area if communal facilities are not a necessity. Your choice impacts your budget and access to certain perks, so weigh security and amenities against overall cost and location.

Security and Privacy

Gated Community:

• Pro: Added Layer of Security. Controlled access, either manned or electronic, provides an initial level of resident screening. This is frequently the primary appeal for renters.
• Pro: Less Traffic. Restricted access limits through-traffic and solicitors. Consequently, the environment is quieter and more private. This is a major benefit for families with children playing outdoors.
• Con: False Sense of Security. No gate is truly impenetrable. In fact, incidents can still happen, and sometimes the illusion of perfect safety leads to renters being less vigilant.
• Con: Guest and Delivery Hassle. Inviting guests or receiving deliveries, such as takeout, sometimes requires extra steps. For example, you may need to call a guard or provide a temporary code, which can be inconvenient.

Non-Gated Community:

• Pro: ‘Local’ Watch. Communities with full-time residents often feature a helpful neighbourhood watch dynamic. Locals look out for one another, which acts as a strong, informal security measure.
• Pro: Easy Access. You can enter and exit easily without delay. Therefore, getting deliveries or having guests visit is straightforward.
• Con: Open to the Public. There is no control over who drives or walks through the area. This can potentially increase traffic, solicitors, and slightly raise the risk of opportunistic crime.

Amenities and Lifestyle

Gated Community:

• Pro: Exclusive, Resort-Style Amenities. Many modern gated communities are actually designed as full-service resorts. As a result, you will likely find a central clubhouse with pools, gyms, tennis courts, and more. These facilities are maintained by the Homeowners Association (HOA) fees and are exclusive to residents.
• Pro: High Maintenance Standards. HOAs in gated communities typically enforce strict rules regarding property appearance. This ensures that common areas are consistently and impeccably maintained, which enhances the neighbourhood’s overall look.
• Con: Less Local Charm. Gated communities often have a high proportion of vacation rentals. Consequently, the atmosphere can feel more like a transient resort rather than a traditional, long-term neighbourhood.

Non-Gated Community:

• Pro: The American Experience. Non-gated communities with many local residents offer a more authentic experience. For instance, you might see the iconic school bus or interact with permanent residents.
• Pro: Variety of Amenities. Non-gated communities can still offer excellent communal facilities, including pools, parks, and play areas. You must check the specific villa listing, however.
• Con: Less Standardized Maintenance. Due to less strict HOA governance, the level of exterior maintenance can vary significantly from one property to the next.
• Con: Amenities Might Be Basic. Amenities, if provided at all, are often less comprehensive than the luxury resort offerings found in large, gated communities.

Cost and Availability

Renting a Villa:

• No Significant Price Difference (Generally): Usually, there is no major difference in the base rental price quoted based solely on the gate. Instead, price is generally dictated by the property’s capacity, size, and interior luxury.
• Price Premium for Select Areas: Certain communities, such as the exclusive Formosa Gardens in Kissimmee, do charge a premium rate. However, this is not due to the gate. Rather, it is because of the community’s small size, oversized lots, and uniformly high quality of its well-appointed villas.
• Availability is Key (Gated): Non-gated communities in the Disney area significantly outnumber gated ones. Since the number of gated communities is limited, you must book your villa far in advance if one is a must-have. Therefore, you should always have a backup location choice.

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Does It Really Matter?

If you have decided that you must stay within a gated community—perhaps for the feeling of safety, exclusive amenities, or reduced traffic—then choose one. Do not settle.

If you are flexible, however, broadening your search to include non-gated communities will increase your villa choices dramatically. You may also enjoy a more authentic local experience while still finding a secure, high-quality vacation home. Ultimately, the quality of the individual villa and its specific on-site amenities remain the most crucial elements for a fantastic Florida stay.

Why not check out our article Florida Villas, Booking with confidence for more information about how Direct Villas Florida verifies their listings, so you don’t have to.