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.

Is Driving in Florida Easy?

Driving in Florida can be easy in many respects, which is often a pleasant surprise for visitors. The roads are generally well-maintained and straight, particularly major highways and interstates, making navigation simple. You’ll find the speed limits are often higher than in many other states, and the state is known for its flat terrain, meaning no challenging mountain passes. However, be prepared for significant traffic congestion in major metropolitan areas like Miami, Orlando, and Tampa, and keep an eye out for fellow tourists and unpredictable drivers near attractions. Overall, the ease of driving in Florida is high, provided you anticipate the heavy traffic in popular locations.

Know Your Vehicle

 

You just got the keys to your rental car and you’re sitting in the parking lot. Take five minutes to familiarize yourself with the basic instruments like lights, washers, and wipers. Some rental cars also have a foot brake (which acts as your parking brake); you activate and deactivate these simply by pressing down with your foot.

Note: Florida law requires drivers to turn headlights on when wipers are in use, including during any rain, smoke, or fog.

Tip: If you’re unhappy with your vehicle, report it immediately.

Automatic Transmission

Most rental cars have automatic transmission. The simple rule: Drive using only your right foot, and tuck your left foot out of the way. This reduces the urge to apply the brake with your left foot. If your vehicle has powered doors, remember they only activate when the vehicle is in park mode.

Ready to Go

You have your driver’s license and documentation from the car hire company; it’s time to set off. All occupants must wear seat belts at all times.

If you have a satellite navigation system, set it now. If you flew into Orlando International Airport, it probably won’t pick up a signal until you clear the parking lot. Also, have some cash on hand to cover the cost of any toll roads you may encounter.

Tip: Remember that many smartphones have sat-nav apps that don’t use your data, an ideal way to find your way without incurring additional costs.

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On the Open Road

Contrary to some people’s perceptions, Florida’s roads aren’t racetracks; in fact, they’re generally more sedate than those in the U.K. The maximum speed limit is 70 mph, though most roads have limits between 55 and 65 mph. Speed limits (both maximum and, in some cases, minimum) and other road signs are clearly visible on gangways above the road.

Tip: Keep a hard copy of your route handy. Google Maps is great for this.

Passing (overtaking) on both the left and right is common practice in Florida. While I don’t suggest you participate in excessive lane-changing, don’t be alarmed to see vehicles passing either side of you. Just be aware of this and use your mirrors when manoeuvring. You’ll soon notice the distinct lack of roundabouts; they are rare in this part of America. Many roads are long and straight, giving you great visibility of the road ahead.

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Through the Lights

Traffic lights hang suspended above the junction they control. Note that in some cases, the light changes from green to red without an amber (yellow) phase. A junction with a flashing yellow light signals drivers to navigate through the junction with caution.

If you approach a traffic light intersection intending to turn right, and the lights show red, you may still turn after a complete stop, unless signs say otherwise. You must yield to all pedestrians and cross-traffic.

 

Stop!

Stop signs are common on Florida’s roads. Drivers must adhere to them at all times; there are no exceptions, and a breach constitutes a traffic violation. These signs are clearly visible.

Law Enforcement

If a law enforcement officer asks you to pull over and stop, do so at the earliest and safest opportunity. DO NOT get out of your vehicle; remain inside. The law requires all drivers to produce a valid license upon request, so you must carry your license at all times.

Move Over Law: If you see an emergency vehicle, service vehicle, or any disabled vehicle displaying flashing warning lights parked at the side of the road, you must move over to the next lane if safe. If you cannot change lanes, you must slow down to a speed 20 mph below the posted limit (or 5 mph if the limit is 20 mph or less).

DUI

Driving under the influence of alcohol is prohibited in Florida. The best advice: Don’t drink any alcohol before driving. For adults aged 21 years or more, the legal limit is .08% Blood Alcohol Content (BAC).

Refuelling

When you visit your first service station (gas station), be aware that many operate a pre-payment system. You can often use your debit or credit card at the pump itself.

Tip: Card transactions at the pump sometimes ask for a U.S. ZIP code. If your card doesn’t have one, you’ll need to pay inside before pumping fuel.

Finally, while gas pump colour standards aren’t federally mandated, be aware that the nozzles for unleaded gasoline are often black, red, or blue, while the green nozzle is commonly for diesel. Always check the label on the pump.

Sit Back and Relax

With basic care and consideration, you will find driving throughout Florida a real pleasure, and it’s much easier than some anticipate. Give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination and enjoy the drive.

Smarter Car Hire Florida

If you are looking for or considering Florida car hire for a future holiday, get a no obligation quote today. We only work with the major car rental providers including Hertz, Alamo and Dollar, and all of our rates include;

• Zero deposit. Book now pay later.
• Fully comprehensive CDW and SLI insurance with zero excess.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to collection time and date.
• 24/7 U.K based customer service.

What Makes Smarter Car Hire Florida Different?

As soon as you reserve your Florida car hire with Smarter Car Hire Florida, they begin to work for you. Using your pre determined criteria used to make your reservation, their system regularly checks the prices of your booking, so that if/when it comes down, you simply receive and email confirming the amount of your saving whilst Smarter Car Hire Florida re books you car hire at the new lower rate, saving you both time and money.

You Book it, We Track it, You Save!!

Smarter Car Hire Florida is owned and operated by Direct Villas UK Limited Newham House Dudley Road Darlington DL1 4GG. UK Company No. 06009413

The Mall at Millenia: Orlando’s Premier Luxury Destination

Located just off Interstate 4, The Mall at Millenia quickly became one of Orlando’s favourite shopping malls for both locals and tourists. Opened in 2002, three major department stores anchor this premier luxury shopping destination: Bloomingdale’s, Neiman Marcus, and Macy’s.

Set over two spacious levels, The Mall at Millenia maintains a bright, clean, and well-maintained environment. Furthermore, this reputation for quality makes the mall truly stand out.

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Arrival and First Impressions

When you arrive, you enter the free and spacious car park. Consequently, you can use various directions to enter the mall, each leading into a different section. However, if you prefer to start your shopping trip with more style, use the valet parking available outside the main entrance. This service, of course, leads directly into the heart of the mall.

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World-Class Guest Services for International Visitors

The Concierge Desk, located in the Grand Court, is the hub for guest amenities. Guests, especially International Visitors, benefit from several programmes and services here. In fact, these offerings enhance their experience and often give the mall a competitive edge:

• Foreign Currency Exchange
• Multi-lingual staff
• Visitor Savings Book/Exclusive Offers: International guests can get a booklet with discounts and special promotions from participating stores and restaurants.
• Complimentary Welcome Gift: Guests often receive this when they present a valid visitor gift voucher or a travel partner promotion.
• Same-Day Complimentary Package Delivery: A service called “Millenia Direct” delivers purchases from participating stores directly to your local hotel.
• Personal Shopping Services: You can book complimentary personal styling and shopping services, often by appointment.

Visitors also find Mall Gift Cards, Automated Teller Machines, and a Gift Wrap Service in this area. Finally, you can rent Strollers and Wheelchairs here. Wheelchairs and electric scooters are complimentary, but strollers require a small fee. Once you enter, the mall’s air conditioning cools you immediately. Indeed, it maintains a comfortable temperature, offering a welcomed break from the often sweltering Orlando sun.

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A Directory of Luxury Outlets and Premier Brands

The shopping experience at The Mall at Millenia is unmatched in Central Florida. Overall, over 150 individual shops and department stores offer something for everyone.

The mall proudly hosts some of the world’s most exclusive luxury outlets. Moreover, these brands frequently expand their presence. Current luxury brands include: Balenciaga, Bvlgari, Cartier, Chanel, Christian Louboutin, Dior, Gucci, Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Marc Jacobs, Prada, Rolex, Tiffany & Co., Tory Burch, TUDOR, and Versace. Popular lifestyle and fashion brands also present are Apple, Aritzia, Lululemon, Alo Yoga, H&M, and Warby Parker, to name just a few.

Remember that all guests shopping in Florida pay a local 6-7% sales tax (VAT equivalent). Crucially, the prices displayed on goods typically do not include this tax. See the current Mall at Millenia shopping directory here.

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Accessibility and Dining Options

The Mall at Millenia remains a superb location for disabled guests. Developers considered them throughout the process. Thus, the mall offers suitable facilities that give all guests total access to all areas.

If, like many others, you fancy a break after a couple of hours of shopping, simply make your way to the excellent dining options. Specifically, the mall offers both a food court and full-service restaurants. The food court features quick-service options like Chick-fil-A, Chipotle, and the artisanal Italian Rosetta Bakery. The famous Cheesecake Factory is still located here. Other fine dining and upscale casual options include The Capital Grille, Brio Italian Grille, and Earls Kitchen + Bar.

The Mall at Millenia offers world-class luxury shopping and amenities, therefore making it a great place to spend some quality time and money, especially beneficial for international visitors.

For information about other great Orlando shopping malls check out other article.

If this is your first trip to Florida, you might not be familiar with all of the options available to you for your holiday accommodation. If you’ve ruled out a cramped hotel room and are looking for self-catering facilities then your first thought might be for a private villa or pool home, but before you make your final decision, take a look at the Townhomes listed on Direct Villas Florida. Read More »

It is so easy to get carried away buying theme park tickets when you are planning your Florida holiday, but the danger is that you can buy so many without considering the length of your stay and your ability to get the very best value for your money. The aim of this article is to provide visitors with an insight as to what is  reasonable within a two or three week vacation, bearing in mind that theme parks are only one aspect your Florida holiday. Read More »

On Sunday 10th August 2014 the very last performance of Clyde & Seamore Take Pirate Island will take place at Seaworld Orlando. This family favourite has being going strong for 15 years, providing laughs from start to finish. Read More »

Have you checked your enquiries lately?

Here at Direct Villas UK we’ve been doing a little research and listening to our members. Your feedback is always important and helps us continue to improve the service we offer.  There’s still more on our ‘to do’ list but we’ve made one change to our enquiry system today that we hope will see your conversion rates soar. Read More »

Planning a trip to enjoy all Florida’s great attractions and year round sunshine? Have you taken a look at all the accommodation options? If you are travelling from the UK you may not be as familiar with the idea of a ‘condo’ but here are just some of the advantage you may not have thought about . . .  Read More »

Last year, a gigantic eyeball went viral when it washed up on Pompano Beach in Florida. People all over the world wanted to know the origins of the mysterious peeper. But it wasn’t the first time a bizarre discovery had been made on the sands of Florida. In fact, weird and wonderful things have been washing up here for years. It turns out it’s not just holidaymakers who are attracted to Florida’s beautiful beaches, but everything from giant Lego men to dead mermaids. We combed the net and found some of the most weird, wonderful and downright unbelievable things ever to be found on the Sunshine State’s shores.

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