Here's Why the Exchange Shouldn't Put You Off a Trip to Orlando

As the loonie continues to hover in the area of gross to garbage, the prospect of travelling to the U.S. might not seem like an ideal plan. But while some destinations south of the border are offering to accept Canadian currency at par, there’s no other city that appreciates our business and visits like Orlando. And we can honestly say the feeling is mutual.

While we get why you’d have some doubts, here are some reasons why Orlando is still your best bet on a fun and budget-friendly vacation.

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Weather

This one's obvious. It's not called the Sunshine State for nothing.

Cinderella's Castle, in Magic Kingdom, at dusk

Kent Phillips/Disney

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Walt Disney World

Sure, Disney resorts aren't just relegated to Orlando but there's really no place like the Florida parks. After all, they're Where Dreams Come True! It also helps that Disney always seems to have special savings for Canadian residents, whether it's 25 per cent off resorts, or wicked discounts off multi-day tickets that don't expire! You really can't go wrong.

Matt Stroshane, Disney

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Eat for free

Every year, Disney offers a free dining plan, generally in the off-season between September and early December. Um, yes please.

SeaWorld Orlando

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Places take Canadian $$ at par

There are several luxury resorts and attractions in Central Florida offering sweet deals such as hotel accommodations (some of which include free night offers) or tourist spots like SeaWorld that are specifically for Canadian residents. Depending on your needs, you can definitely find the ideal place that fits your budget.

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Some attractions are free

With a number of the city's attractions like the Zora Neale Hurston National Museum of Fine Arts, the CityArts Factory, Black Hammock Adventures, The Coca Cola Orlando Eye, Kings Bowl Orlando, and Lake Eola Park can be enjoyed for less than $25 or absolutely free. Exchange, schmexchange.

Steven Diaz, Disney

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There’s always something new opening

Every visit can be drastically different from the last, even if you were there recently. This year alone, Universal Orlando welcomed Jimmy Fallon and his Race Through New York and Universal's water park, Volcano Bay, is set to open this spring. Not to be outdone, Typhoon Lagoon will showcase Miss Fortune Falls while Disney's Animal Kingdom will unveil the hotly anticipated Pandora – The World of Avatar.

David Roark, Disney

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Disney cruises

Disney Cruise Lines offers a 25 per cent discount for Canadians, typically once a year, so why wouldn't you take advantage of the deal and board one of the glorious ships in DCL's fleet? OK, technically you're not exactly in Orlando but the departure from nearby Cape Canaveral to one of dozens of ports DCL sails to is too good to ignore.

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Shopping at the outlets

Our currency may be piddly but the two outlet malls — Orlando International Premium Outlets and Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets — will still save you more than here, even with the exchange. You can get a head start on your summer wardrobe, hopefully with finds you can't get back home. Bonus!