Visas

UK citizens with the right to live in the UK and traveling on a full British passport do not need a visa as long as they have a return ticket to stay for less than 90 days in the US. The visa waiver form 1-791 is usually issued on board your flight along with full instructions on how to complete it. People with contagious diseases, criminal records, previously deported or HIV positive may not be allowed by law to enter the US.

If you require additional information, call the US Embassy Visa Branch on 0891 200290, calls are charged at 50p per minute. Other nationalities should check with the US Embassy of their home country to determine visa requirements.

Inoculations

None are currently required for travel to Florida however, the DoH leaflet, “Health Advice for Travellers” can be obtained from the Post Office or by phoning the Health Literature Line on 0800 555777. It may also be a good idea to check with your doctor and the US Consulate if you’ve been exposed to any infections or contagious diseases.

Baggage

Each airline decides on the amount of free luggage carried for each passenger. The allowance will be detailed on your tickets but it’s normally around 20kg per person.

Long Stay Rentals

Most rentals are for one or two weeks but owners can quote for longer durations when special reduced rates may be available, particularly in low season.

Driving

Your hire car is an essential part of your need full passport which is valid for holiday giving you the freedom to come and go as you please. Its' best to book the car hire before you travel to Florida to ensure it's reserved for you, to take advantage of lower pre-booked rates and also ensure that you have adequate insurance. Remember to book a car large enough for all occupants to sit in seats with seat belts and for all the luggage.

For competitive Florida Car Hire click here.

To drive you’ll need a valid UK driving licence, held for a minimum of 2 years and be at least 21 years of age. A supplement is payable to register extra drivers and drivers aged between 21 and 25. Ensure you have your driving licence, passport and the vehicle rental documents with you at all times.

Holiday Insurance

We believe that comprehensive holiday insurance is vitally important. See our florida holiday insurance page for details.

Using the phone

All the calls you make from the phone in the villa can be charged to a BT charge card or credit card although some US phone companies do not seem to accept some UK credit cards. You can also buy pre-paid phone cards in various denominations locally. If you would been exposed to any like to use your “Tri-band” mobile phone in the US contact your air-time provider.

Electrical appliances

The voltage is 110v in USA unlike the 240v supply in the UK. If you intend to take your own hairdryer or other appliances, you'll need an adapter and make sure that they can be
switched to 110v otherwise they will not operate. Alternatively you could buy a hairdryer in Florida, a reasonable model costs just a few dollars and you can take it with you on your future holidays.

Swimming Pools

Pool heating

Although it's not really needed during summer, pool heating is useful during spring, autumn and winter when nights are cool, often lowering the temperature of an unheated pool.

There are three methods of pool heating.

Solar heating depends on heat from the sun so it’s provided free of charge where available.

Electric heat pump is the most common heater, when activated, it will keep the water temperature between 75 and 80°F. In extreme conditions, when the air temperature drops below 50°F, the heat pump will not operate and pool heating charge will be refunded on a pro rata basis for the days affected.

Gas heating is the most effective and the only guaranteed heating method but the cost of constant heating at higher temperatures makes it expensive to run.

An extra charge is levied for electric and gas pool heating where available. The price for pool heating at your chosen villa will be explained by the owner.