Orlando Deserves its Reputation as the Capital of Entertainment

        

Orlando is the largest inland city on the Florida peninsula with a population of more than 2 million permanent residents, including the suburbs and the adjacent regions. The actual number of people residing in the city itself is 238,300. The city was named after the soldier Orlando Reeves, a participant in the Second Seminole War. Some historians claim that this person actually never existed, believing that his figure was made up in a legend. According to local rumours, the city was named after Shakespeare's character Orlando.     

The city is deservedly acknowledged as “the capital of entertainment”. Perched right in the heart of Florida, its strategic location makes it easily accessible by every spot in the state in a short time. Besides, Orlando is one of the most preferred tourist-oriented cities, which explains the dense concentration of themed amusement parks and attractions, more than anywhere else around the world.      

Led by the first-prize winner Los Angeles, Orlando is the second-best tourist destinations in the United States. It is also the city with the second-largest number of hotels. It wasn't by accident that the legendary Walt Disney chose to create his dream amusement park. Disney World encircles a territory of 110 square kilometres. More than 30 million international and American guests visit the wonderland per year.      

Orlando is a place of modern and contemporary style, a prestigious family vacation destination and the only place on Earth with such a high level and such a large-scale entertainment complex. Children around the world dream of encountering some of the most cherished characters - Mickey Mouse and his friends, of course - and to spend a whole day enjoying the adventures with their inspirat
ional amigos and all the irresistible attractions.      

The Believe It or Not Museum features an enormous collection of objects from the Guinness World Records. You can even swim with dolphins in Orlando. No insider should miss visiting the Kennedy Space Center, providing you with the incredible chance to walk across the shuttle launch grounds.     

The emblem of the city is the fountain centered at the gorgeous Lake Eola. Penetrating the heart of the city, Lake Eola boasts black and white swans. Remarkable skyscrapers, outlined by the orange shades in the sky during sunset, best illustrate the incredible architecture.      

The weather is favourable and mild throughout the whole year, and the infrastructure is convenient - these important preconditions provide the perfect trip for vacationers. In recent years, many people have chosen to organize their wedding ceremonies in the city. The list of places where the ceremonies can be conducted is endless; the most desired place, however, is Disney World.      

Orlando goes far beyond the reputation of its theme parks, bragging of a rich historical background and thriving cultural and art scene.      

Downtown Orlando is the business district of the city. During the day its streets are crowded with young professionals, whereas the nights magnetically attract thousands of tourists to the intriguing bars, clubs and irresistible dining venues. Orange Avenue is where the nightlife can be felt in its most vibrant rhythm.      

If you are an incorrigible shopping enthusiast, Ivanhoe Village and Loch Haven Park are the right places to go. Located adjacent to the downtown both are strewn with antique shops, museums, and vegetarian dining places. One thing is for sure: you will not leave with empty shopping bags.      

You can also visit the flourishing Asian district, represented mainly by Thai and Vietnamese, lined with fascinating bistros.