Universal Orlando

I always recommend the Unofficial guide to Disney. It was my "bible" when we went. tells you everything you want to know. Haven't been to HP so I am jealous. Be prepared to put some time into researching/planning this trip if you want it to be a success. I do recommend taking some time in the middle of the day, going back to your hotel, and take a rest or cool off in the pool. then go back in the evening. Make some plans for your meals; we ended up having to wait for hours for a table our first nite there so that was a drag.

We love Staybridge Suites by Lake Buena Vista . . . this one is much closer to Disney than Universal. There is also a Staybridge on International Drive that's very close to Universal, though I did not like that one quite as much.

We can usually get a 2BR-2BA suite for $150-$180+. I've gotten them as cheap as $125. Our crew needs alot of room, and because they have full kitchens we save money eating in. Staybridge also has a free breakfast bar (hot) and evening hors d'oevres during the week (could be dinner).

I know your budget is tight but if you stay in one of the three Universal properties you get a free FastPass for the parks. Depending on the time of year this is an extremely valuable perk. I would at least look at their rates.

Good luck and have a GREAT time!

There are so many between both parks. Look for one on International Dr (this runs between both parks) and use Priceline or one of those types of sites. Also check out any reviews on them since some look really nice in the pictures and are not always so nice when you get there.

Have fun, drink plenty of water and use sunscreen. It gets really hot and humid in the summer.

If you are flying into MCO, I always use Priceline to get my hotels. Last time I got a 4 Star hotel for 45 dollars. Just select you want to stay by MCO. The park is about 20 minutes away and super easy to find. We LOVED the Harry Potter theme park! It was phenomenal.