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Pre-Arrival Information for Travelers
Banking & Currency
- Banking hours are generally Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm and Saturdays 9am – 12pm. If you arrive when the banks are closed, be sure to bring sufficient currency with you.
- It is always best to carry Traveler's Cheques in small denominations rather than cash. These can either be cashed at a bank or used directly for most purchases.
- If possible, you should budget at least $500 per week for accommodations, meals, transportation and optional excursions. Entrance fees to theme parks are approximately $56.00 per person if you plan on visiting any.
- Currency in the United States is the U.S. dollar ($). Visit www.xe.com/ucc/ for free currency exchange information.
Weather
- Although the average temperature in Orlando is 72 degrees, it can get quite cold during the months of October to February. Be sure to bring a warm coat, hat, and gloves during those months.
- It does rain from time to time, so bring a small umbrella no matter what time of the year you travel.
- For current local weather information, visit www.wesh.com/weather.
Packing for Your Trip
To sum it up - Pack Light! You should bring the following:
- One carry-on bag with reading material and snacks for the plane
- Daypack for regular day-to-day travel
- Money belt
- Small umbrella
- Layers of clothing for the colder months
- Comfortable walking shoes
- At least one dressy outfit for special occasions
- Hat, sunglasses, bathing suit, beach towel, flip-flops, and sunscreen
- Medical prescriptions for the duration of your stay
- Over-the-counter medications for headache, upset stomach, etc.
- Toiletries
- Camera and film
- Do not bring any valuable jewelry
Airport Arrival
- You should arrive to Orlando International Airport and follow the signs to the baggage claim. You will take a short train ride back to the terminal to get to there.
- Once you have all of your bags, follow the signs to Ground Transportation. There you can catch a taxi or shuttle to your destination. The cost of a taxi from the airport to Winter Park is approximately $35 to $50. Ask about the cost before you get in the taxi. Most people generally tip 10% of the fare.
- If you have an emergency before you reach your final destination, call 911 from any telephone. You will be connected to the local police department.
First Day of Classes
- Be aware that the public transportation system is not 100% punctual, so allow plenty of time the first morning to get to the campus. For bus fares and maps of the routes, visit www.golynx.com.
- The campus address is: Valencia Community College, 2411 Sand Lake Road, Orlando, FL 32809.
- You should plan to arrive for the First Day Check-In which runs from 8:00am-8:30am. Classes are from 8:30am-12:30pm. After classes, you will have a break for lunch and then Orientation from 1:00pm-2:00pm. The First Day Orientation is mandatory for all new students.
