In a city that thrives on its attractions, you won't find it difficult to get around -- especially if you have a car. Don't count on the city bus system to get you where you want to go. (Okay, it may get you there or somewhere near there, but not quickly.) If you're traveling outside the tourist areas, avoid the periods from 7 to 9am and from 4 to 6pm like the plague, which they are. Rush hours are bad anywhere, but the commuter traffic here is complicated by tourist traffic and, given that this is a 365-day-a-year town, it doesn't get better on weekends. Most of the parks don't open until 9am or so and they usually stay open at least until dusk, so you won't miss much by leaving a little later. (The exception is Animal Kingdom, where the critters move around early, then hide.)

International Drive has two alternate means of transportation -- pedestrian and trolley power. We don't recommend the former because, though there are plenty of sidewalks, you may be taking your life in your hands if you try to cross this busy road. The I-Ride Trolley (tel. 407/248-9590; www.iridetrolley.com) is a safer bet. It makes 54 stops between the Belz Factory Outlets on the north end of the drive and SeaWorld to the south. The trolley runs every 15 minutes, from 8am to 10:30pm, and costs 75¢ for adults and 25¢ for seniors; kids under 12 ride free; exact change is required. There's an unlimited 1-day pass available for $2 per person. Due to I-Drive's high traffic volume, this is a great way to avoid bumper-to-bumper driving.

The good news if you are driving is that road signs have become more accurate than they were a few years back. But to make sure you're heading the right way, follow the directions we supply for the various attractions and hotels later in this book. Also, call your destination before leaving and ask whether new construction or other temporary roadblocks might be in your way. Most attractions give directions as a voice-mail option when you call the main number, but you can also ask for an operator to get clarification.

Some hotels (usually not the inexpensive ones) offer transportation to and from some theme parks and other tourist destinations; however, some of them charge you for this service. It's not difficult getting around town, but it can be expensive, so ask when booking your room.