Why families should book a vacation home
Orlando has some of the world’s best amusement parks. And the best way for families to experience them is by booking a vacation home close to the parks. Here’s why!
#1. The parks are tiring
Long days, packed with excitement and miles of walking… Orlando’s amusement parks are great days out. But they’re long days out. And they are tiring days out.
There’s nothing better than being able to escape to the privacy of your own vacation home at the end of the day. It offers an unparalleled opportunity to escape and unwind together.
#2. Your own private pool
All of our vacation homes have a private pool. Many of them also have a jacuzzi. You can relax while the kids play. It’s a simple, quiet joy you simply can’t get in the parks.
#3. You can schedule some down days
Between days at the parks, you can relax and chill out at home, by the pool, or with your kids’ favorite shows playing on TV. It’s easy. It’s relaxing. It’s how your vacation ought to be…
#4. Space to play
Having your own space gives you the freedom to keep the kids amused in simple, fun ways. Why not build them a den? Or play a board game? Enjoy a few peaceful moments without all the high-octane energy and expense of the parks.
#5. Get together at your “home away from home”
Many of our vacation homes have games rooms and/or movie rooms, so you can get together and create some lasting family memories.
#6. Your kids can have their tantrums without the audience!
After your kids have met their heroes and you’ve finally managed to tear their tired little selves from the always-on magic of the parks, to say they can get a little overwrought is something of an understatement.
Isn’t it so much better to be snuggled in the comfort of your own vacation home when the inevitable meltdown comes? Surround them with all their familiar comforts, put on a Disney movie, prepare their favorite snacks, read them a story, whatever they need – all in your own time and in your own space.
#7. It’s a great excuse to broaden your horizons
It’s easy to focus all your attention on Orlando’s amusement parks, but Florida is so much more than that!
The state boasts some of the best beaches in the world. And some of the most wonderful natural parks in the country. Staying in a vacation home can be an impetus to go further afield. Explore!
#8. Mac’n’cheese is on the menu
Having your own kitchen facilities isn’t only a great way to keep the costs down. It’s also super convenient for preparing healthy snacks and making sure your fussy eaters can enjoy the home comforts they love.
No need to dress for dinner. Eat at a relaxed time and place to suit you.
#9. Make an occasion of it
Our vacation homes come with concierge service – so you can order in birthday baskets or other treats if you wish. We even partner with a caterer if you want to give everyone the night off!
#10. Your space is your own
In a vacation home, you really can kick back and relax in a way that is impossible in a hotel room. Spread out. Kick back. Enjoy.
Book your own Orlando family vacation!
If you’d love nothing more than to spend some quality time with your family while enjoying all that Orlando has to offer, please:
Browse our homes now.
10 reasons why you should celebrate May the 4th in Orlando, Florida, at Disney’s theme parks next year
A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away, a phrase was born that would unite fans across generations: May the Fourth be with you!
What started as a clever play on words has evolved into an annual holiday dedicated to celebrating all things Star Wars. And if you’re looking for the ultimate way to mark this special day next year, there’s no better place to do it than in Orlando, Florida, at Disney’s theme parks.
Orlando is home to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, where Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge transports guests directly into the world of Jedi, Sith, and smugglers. You’re not simply visiting a theme park – you’ll be stepping into your own fully immersive Star Wars adventure.
That’s why today is the perfect time to plan your 2026 May the Fourth trip to Orlando!
#1. Exclusive May the 4th celebrations and merch
Disney goes all out in its Star Wars themed area Galaxy’s Edge for May the 4th, often featuring special events, exclusive merchandise, themed food and drinks and unique character appearances. Imagine sipping on a blue milk while mingling with stormtroopers or hunting down rare collectibles that are only available on this galactic holiday.
#2. Make it a long weekend
In 2026, May 4th is a Monday, with May 5th – the day for the Revenge of the Fifth – falling on a Tuesday. This gives you the perfect excuse to turn your May the 4th trip into a super-galactic long weekend!
Book one of our homes for five days. Arrive Saturday, settle in, then spend Sunday chilling by the pool. Head to the parks for two days enjoying the Star Wars themed festivities. Then enjoy another pool day before you head back for a two-day week! Enjoy it you will!
#3. Special evening activities on select dates
Disney puts on a show for May the 4th. The parks host special events with character appearances and evening activities – such as light sabre classes. Make sure you visit on a special date (May 4th included, of course) so you can linger and enjoy the show.
#4. Build your own light sabre
What would-be Jedi wouldn’t want to build their own light sabre? Guests can book special workshops at Disney Hollywood Studios in Disney World to create their very own customized light sabre. For a mere $250 (2025 prices) you can book into a special session at Savi’s Workshop in Galaxy’s Edge where you can create the lightsabre you’ve wielded in your imagination!
#5. Ride the fastest ship in the galaxy
Ride in the cockpit of the Millennium Falcon on a daring Smugglers Run. This thrill ride is great for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re a pilot, engineer or gunner, the Millennium Falcon will blast off, pushing you and your crew back into your seats when you jump into hyperspace.
#6. Combine forces with the resistance
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is a massive attraction with multiple ride systems. Hidden in the forest outside Black Spire Outpost, the Rise of the Resistance is another kid-friendly thrill ride. Your mission has unexpected twists and turns – especially when your transport is captured by an imposing First Order Star Destroyer filled with legions of stormtroopers!
#7. Create your own sidekick
Take your choice of the BB-series unit or R-series unit and receive a basket and blueprint for parts, then you can begin your droid-building experience at Black Spire Outpost’s industrial depot.
#8. Try to stay out of trouble at the Cantina
For those who have long dreamed of visiting one of the galaxy’s most infamous watering holes, Oga’s Cantina brings that dream to life. To sup on a Jedi Mind Trick cocktail, Bad Motivator IPA or Toniray wine, it’s highly recommended that you book in advance, which you can do through the Disney app after purchasing your theme park tickets.
#9. Once you’ve saved the galaxy, head back to the pool for a dip
It’s a great atmosphere and super fun, but there is nothing like being able to return to the comfort of your own vacation home after a busy day at Orlando’s theme park.
Choose one of our homes with private pools and you can rest those tired limbs and recover from your intergalactic adventures in the best way possible.
#10. Go back for more…
In recent years, a new May celebration has grown in popularity. May 5th is the day for Revenge of the Fifth – when the dark side gets to celebrate its own villainous antiheroes… Or perhaps it’s yet another great excuse to enjoy all the fun of Galaxy’s Edge and Disney Hollywood Studios for an extra day!
Ready to book?
If you fancy enjoying the May the 4th celebrations in Orlando in 2026, browse our vacation homes now.
Close to Disney, with more room than a hotel room and all the freedom of your own private pool, our vacation homes are the perfect way to enjoy all the fun of May the 4th with a little extra luxury thrown in!
St Patricks Day celebrates St Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. It’s a day to wear green and celebrate your love of all things Irish!
It’s a big day in the USA since many Americans have a claim to some Irish ancestry.
But how should you celebrate St Patrick’s Day? If you’re visiting Orlando today, on 17th March, why not try some of these ideas? Head over and join the revelries!
Raglan Road at Disney Springs
The party is already in full swing over at Disney Springs. Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant kicked off its annual St Patrick’s Day festival on Friday 14 March, with events and celebrations through until today.
The Irish themed pub serves up traditional and contemporary Irish dishes made with the finest local ingredients. Feast on hearty favourites like bangers & mash, fish & chips, shepherd’s pie, boxty potato pancakes and braised beef short ribs. And, of course, you can enjoy a pint of Guinness or an Irish whisky.
On St Patrick’s Day, you can enjoy the St Patrick’s Day celebration atmosphere with live Irish dancing performances during the day and then with live music later into the evening.
View the performance list here.
Mulligans in Celebration
Mulligans Irish Pub on Blake Boulevard in Celebration, too, has been partying all week in preparation for today. The Irish pub in the charming lakeside town of Celebration has been winding up to St Patricks Day with a series of events from Monday 10th March.
Sadly, it’s located away from the downtown Celebration area, but it’s close to the Publix supermarket at Water Tower Shoppes. You can read more about its St Patrick’s Day events here.
Today, you can head over there to enjoy a pint of Guinness in a convivial atmosphere before the party kicks off at 5pm with a live DJ.
The Harp and Celt Restaurant in downtown Orlando
If you’re willing to venture as far as downtown Orlando, you can check out The Harp and Celt Restaurant and Pub, which has been serving up Irish hospitality in Orlando for some 15 years.
Since 2007, The Harp and Celt has been pouring the perfect pints of Guinness and cooking up classic Irish dishes, like Irish stew, fish and chips and traditional Irish breakfasts, from its Magnolia Avenue location.
The Magnolia Avenue part of downtown Orlando is known for its lively atmosphere, with bars, restaurants, and cultural spots like theatres and galleries. The area is popular for its nightlife and events, so it can be bustling and energetic depending on the area and time of day.
St Patrick’s Day is a great opportunity to explore the area while enjoying some authentic Irish hospitality.
St Patrick’s Day at SeaWorld
If you have little ones with you or you would simply prefer the slower pace of a more family-oriented event, SeaWorld has an option for you. There, you can enjoy a little of the St Patrick’s Day spirit as part of your park admission.
The SeaWorld Orlando St. Patrick’s Day Celebration is a lively and family-friendly event that takes place as part of the park’s Seven Seas Food Festival. The event is designed to be inclusive and enjoyable for all ages, making it a great outing for families.
SeaWorld’s Seven Seas Food Festival runs from January 31 to May 4, 2025, on select dates. It features over 190 internationally inspired dishes, along with a variety of wines, craft beers and cocktails. There’s also live music and concerts from popular artists every weekend, included within the park admission. The festival incorporates themed events like Mardi Gras, Cinco de Mayo and, of course, St. Patrick’s Day.
This year, the St Patrick’s Day festivities run from March 13–17 and March 20–23, 2025.
The heart of the celebration is the Irish Market Plaza where you’ll discover live Irish music, stilt walkers and vibrant entertainment throughout the day. You can enjoy live performances from talented musicians and performers who bring the spirit of Ireland to life with traditional melodies and dances. Dig into some traditional Irish cuisine, with classic dishes like shepherd’s pie, corned beef and cabbage, and themed drinks such as the Shamrock Sour.
Happy St Patrick’s Day!
We hope we’ve inspired you with some St Patrick’s Day ideas… However you are celebrating, we wish you a very happy St Patrick’s Day!
If we’ve whetted your appetite for a March 2026 stay – so you can enjoy Orlando’s St Patrick’s Day festivities next year – browse our homes and book here!
Vacation Homes – White Rose Villas
It’s no secret that our founder’s favourite park is Epcot at Walt Disney World.
Epcot at Walt Disney World in Florida has always been a favourite destination for those seeking a blend of future-forward innovation, cultural experiences, and thrilling attractions.
The park is constantly evolving. 2024 and 2025 are no exceptions, bringing a host of new updates and events that will delight visitors of all ages.
Here’s a rundown of what’s new at Epcot and a schedule of exciting events you won’t want to miss.
New Epcot attractions and experiences
1. Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
Prepare for an intergalactic adventure with Epcot’s newest roller coaster, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. This thrilling ride features a reverse launch and 360-degree rotation, taking you on a high-speed journey through space with your favourite Guardians characters. The storytelling, combined with cutting-edge technology, makes this a must-visit attraction.
2. Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure
Shrink down to the size of Chef Remy and scurry through Gusteau’s famous Parisian restaurant in this 4D experience. Located in the expanded France Pavilion, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure offers a family-friendly ride that combines stunning visuals and fun surprises.
3. Luminous: the Symphony of Us
Feast your eyes on an all-new nighttime spectacular as it lights up the sky over World Showcase Lagoon. This new night-time spectacular is one of the largest ever created for a Disney park. It features massive floating set pieces, custom-built LED panels, choreographed moving fountains, lights, pyrotechnics, and lasers. The show celebrates how Disney music inspires people worldwide, with reimagined classic songs in various languages performed by a diverse group of artists.
4. Space 220
Dine among the stars at Space 220, Epcot’s newest out-of-this-world restaurant. Located adjacent to Mission: SPACE, this dining experience simulates a journey 220 miles above Earth, offering breathtaking views of space and a delicious menu inspired by futuristic cuisine.
Exciting Epcot events in 2024
Here’s our pick of the events coming this year.
1. Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival
Dates: March 6 – July 1, 2024.
Spring comes alive at Epcot during the International Flower & Garden Festival with stunning topiaries, vibrant gardens, and live entertainment. The festival also includes outdoor kitchens offering fresh, seasonal dishes and beverages. Our personal favourite event!
2. Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
Dates: July 15 – November 20, 2024.
This fan-favourite event brings global cuisine, fine wines, craft beers, and spirits to Epcot. Enjoy culinary demonstrations, beverage seminars, and the Eat to the Beat Concert Series.
3. Epcot International Festival of the Holidays
Dates: November 25 – December 30, 2024.
Experience holiday traditions from around the globe. The International Festival of the Holidays features holiday kitchens, the Candlelight Processional, and festive decorations throughout the park.
Exciting Epcot events in 2025
Epcot is already looking forward to next year!
1. Epcot International Festival of the Arts
Dates: January 10 – February 18, 2025. Returning with more art, music, and culinary experiences, this festival continues to showcase the best of the arts with new workshops and performances.
2. Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival
Dates: March 5 – June 30, 2025. Expect more vibrant gardens and creative topiaries, along with new outdoor kitchens and entertainment options that celebrate the beauty of spring.
3. Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
Dates: July 17 – November 22, 2025. Expanding its culinary offerings, the festival will introduce new global marketplaces, enhanced beverage seminars, and an extended Eat to the Beat Concert Series line up.
4. Epcot International Festival of the Holidays
Dates: November 24 – December 29, 2025. The 2025 edition will feature even more international holiday traditions, new festive entertainment, and expanded holiday kitchens for a truly global holiday celebration.
Our visit to the Flower & Garden festival
Our team recently visited the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival and were blown away by the stunning flower displays. The intricate designs and vibrant colours made for a truly spectacular experience.
The food offerings were equally impressive, with a variety of fresh and delicious dishes to try. Epcot remains a firm favourite with our team, and we highly recommend visiting during this beautiful festival.
Your visit to Orlando
Epcot’s ongoing transformation promises to enhance the guest experience with new attractions, dining options and entertainment that celebrate innovation, culture, and storytelling.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a foodie, or someone who loves immersive cultural experiences, Epcot has something for everyone in 2024 and 2025. Plan your visit today and be part of the magic as Epcot continues to evolve and inspire.
Stay tuned for more updates and insider tips on making the most of your trip to Epcot. It’s these exciting new experiences and events that will make your visit to Florida truly unforgettable.
Ready to book?
As we all take tentative steps toward the new normal, Governor DeSantis announced that phase two of his plan for the gradual reopening of businesses would commence on 8th June. All but 3 of Florida’s 67 counties, the exceptions being Palm Beach, Miami-Dade and Broward counties, are moving into this next phase.
This phase allows bars, clubs, bowling alleys and cinemas to operate at 50% capacity. Similarly, concert halls, theaters and casinos may also operate at 50% capacity, with social-distancing measures in place. Restaurants can now allow bar-top seating, again with social-distancing restrictions in place.
Retail businesses and gyms can now operate at full capacity and personal service businesses e.g. tattoo parlors, massage and tanning establishments may also reopen.
An update on attractions:
Gatorland opened May 23rd; Gator Gully Splashpad opened June 3rd: https://www.gatorland.com/plan-your-visit/re-opening-safety/
Legoland opened June 1st: https://www.legoland.com/florida/ways-we-are-making-it-safe-to-visit/
Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure and Volcano Bay opened 4th June with limited and reduced daily attendance: https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/plan-your-visit/safety-faqs
Walt Disney World parks will commence opening July 11th – Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom, followed by EPCOT and Hollywood Studios on July 15th. WDW requirements here: https://www.disneyworld.co.uk/experience-updates/
Busch Gardens opens June 11th: https://buschgardens.com/tampa/park-info/park-safety/
Discovery Cove opens June 11th: https://discoverycove.com/orlando/park-info/park-safety/
Disney Springs phased reopening: https://www.disneysprings.com/reopening/
Universal CityWalk: https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/plan-your-visit/safety-faqs/citywalk-parking
With the announcement of Virgin Atlantic’s intention to re-commence flights to Orlando from Heathrow on July 20th, it signals the first glimmer of hope that we may be able to salvage something from this awful, global situation.
We at White Rose Villas will be ready, willing and able to welcome our valued international guests to the Orlando area as soon as it is safe to do so. In the meantime we’ll give you regular updates and information as soon as we have them. Keep safe!
As parts of our World take the first, tentative steps to emerge from lockdown, there’s more encouraging news from our Florida friends. In addition to short-term rental homes now being allowed to operate, pursuant to their county’s plan being approved, Disney has announced plans for a phased reopening, commencing on July 11th.
Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom are first up on 11th, with EPCOT and Hollywood Studios following on July 15th, in this phased reopening. It’s Disney as we’ve never known before; health and safety measures are obviously paramount and will include the implementation of a pre-arrival reservation system to maintain and ensure a reduced capacity.
In addition, the wearing of masks and temperature checks will be required, and parades, fireworks and other crowd creating events will be temporarily suspended. Similarly, ‘high touch’ experiences, including character meet and greet, makeovers and playgrounds will be unavailable in the short-term. However, characters will still roam the parks to entertain guests.
With SeaWorld, Discovery Cove and Aquatica awaiting approval to reopen on June 11th, Universal approved for June 5th and LEGOLAND opened on June 1st, the magic is very gradually returning!