Florida Travel Forum

Hi,

I'm thinking about visiting Orlando the last two weeks of August to see the Atlantis Shuttle Launch with my siblings (both 11). Is it safe to bring them to Orlando during this time? Are there hurricane shelters easily accessible for tourists?

Also, where's the best place to get tickets to see the shuttle launch up close?

Thanks

Lorraine

Also, I was thinking of booking a hotel in Titusville to be close to the Space Centre, is there much near-by in ways of beaches and things to do for the kids. What are the transport links like to DisneyWorld from here?

Thanks for your Help!

Lorraine

Don't worry about hurricanes, especially in the sense of being in danger. The worst thing you would have to face would be being stuck in your hotel for 5-15 hours. Except for the year 2005, most hurricanes that hit Florida are barely felt in Orlando. Sometimes you'd think it was just another tropical storm. Bottom line, no need to worry. There would be no need for a shelter if you are staying in a hotel, people who die in hurricanes live in trailers. I believe they have a viewing platform at/near the Space Center, you can give them a call and ask. However, I've never been because we just watch them from our house. If it's a clear day or night, you can see the shuttle from Orlando. Regarding transportation...rent a car, simple as that. Cocoa Beach and New Smyrna Beach are virtually next door to the Titusville and a little further North of New Smyrna is Daytona Beach. Enjoy!

Here are a couple of website links to check out regarding getting tickets for a shuttle launch.

http://www.launchphotography.com/Shuttle_Launch_Viewing.html

http://www.ksctickets.com/ltt.html

http://www.ehow.com/how_2067195_get-tickets-shuttle-launch.html

Titusville and the Space Center area are about a 1 hour ride from Orlando and all the attractions there. I'm not sure about public transportation as I've always had a car in my visits in the Orlando area.

If you are looking for an itinerary of things to do while you are down there let me know as I have spent several vacations and have made numerous business trips to the area in the last 20 years.

I have lived in Orlando since 1980 ... in 2004 we had three hurricanes (they seem to follow a similar path every year). Difficult to tell how active the season will be this year, but usually it's not a problem.

I would be just a little cautious (and I'm older so tend to be a bit more paranoid) ... but we seem to be having a few more sharks around than usual. Does not mean you cannot enjoy the beach ... just don't go way out there.