The Orlando waterparks are legendary. Try Wet 'n' Wild on International Drive or Disney's Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon.

Don't leave town without visiting at least one of the shopping malls. Prices are generally cheaper than the UK, especially for clothing, but for the real bargains go to the outlet malls. Trainers are a popular buy – just look at the feet going round the theme parks.

You won't find a great deal of European-style culture in Orlando, but for a unique experience, a 45-minute drive to the east coast will bring you to the only place on earth where man has left for the moon. And come back.

The attractions of Kennedy Space Centre have been upgraded in recent years and now offer a full day out to rival any theme park, with IMAX cinemas, exhibitions and hands-on attractions.

We'd hoped to see a rocket blast off into space but launch was aborted at the last minute due to adverse weather conditions. The countdown, however, was unforgettable – a real thrill among the manufactured thrills of Orlando. Check the website before you leave for details of forthcoming launches.