Orlando is one of the world's hottest tourist destinations, and as such offers a staggering variety of accommodation. The emphasis in this town is on being big, flashy and entertaining, so visitors will find that many of the hotels and resorts have a particular theme. But like all cities the size of Orlando, there are also dozens of business hotels, chain brands and even a few independent motels dotting the landscape as you move farther from the amusement park district.

In a city of grand projects, the Gaylord Palms Resort stands out as a virtual destination in itself. The massive resort is divided into different themes reflecting the diversity of Florida's nature and culture. It has a complete range of recreation facilities, shops and top-class restaurants, and its legendary Canyon Ranch SpaClub is reason enough to stay here.

Other amazing resorts include the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress, an Eden of adult luxury mixed with ample family amenities. Its half-acre pool with grottoes, waterfalls and caves is arguably the best in Orlando, and its recreation options are fully comprehensive. The Reunion Resort is another excellent luxury choice if you want to stay in a villa environment rather than a hotel-style resort, while the Peabody is a top favourite for business travellers and adults looking for class, style and attentive service.

Walt Disney World has a number of huge hotels within its vast grounds. If Disney World is the main purpose of your visit, you may as well stay right at the park in one of their fun themed hotels. For those who don't want to be bombarded with Mickey Mouse at every turn, the International Drive strip has a huge selection of major hotel chains like the Hilton, Sheraton and Marriott. These rooms tend to be among the most expensive in Orlando, but the quality is top notch.

Around Lake Buena Vista are a number of hotels within easy striking distance of Disney World. They tend to be much cheaper than those within the Disney realm, as they don't offer the perks of staying within the themepark. The area along highway 192 known as Kissimmee is another good choice as it's close to Disney but loaded with budget hotels and restaurants.

Many visitors don't realise there's a downtown Orlando that offers plenty of accommodation. Most hotels here cater to the business crowd, but their relative calm and lack of children make them a good choice if you're in Orlando for anything other than the themeparks.