Greater Orlando's population numbers approximately 1.5 million. Constantly growing and boasting a strong economic base, Orlando attracts many large companies and corporate headquarters. The bulk of the area's employment comes from the entertainment and retail sectors, including major employers like Disney, Universal and Wal-Mart. Other top employers include those in communications, health care, research, and aviation. Orlando's sales tax is 6%.

Rated among the country's top 15 busiest airports, Orlando International (OIA) services all major carriers and handles the bulk of the area's air traffic. It's conveniently located near downtown and within a relatively short distance of major theme parks. The airport offers connections to the I-Ride trolley system that services the I-Drive area, providing stops every 15 minutes. The Lynx public bus transportation system, which connects to many Orlando destinations, is also accessible at OIA. Taxi service and hotel shuttles ensure quick, reliable transportation to and from the airport as well. Amtrak trains and Greyhound buses also provide service to Orlando.

If you plan to tour the city and travel among a variety of parks and attractions, renting a car is the easiest way to get around. Public buses and convenient taxis are also available throughout the area.

The Orlando Times, Orlando Sentinel, and Orlando Weekly will keep you in the know regarding world, national, and local events. The Orlando Business Journal chronicles the area's business happenings.

The Orlando/Orange County Convention and Visitors Bureau operates a Visitor's Center to help acclimate newcomers. It's a great source of information, and it makes available discount tickets, maps, and brochures. You can even pick up local tips from the helpful staff. Visitor's Center 8723 International Drive Suite 101 Orlando, FL 32819 (407) 363-5872 info@orlandocvb.com Daily 8am-7pm

Although tipping is generally a personal matter, some basic guidelines prove helpful to travelers. At restaurants, servers are typically provided 15% of the bill (with variations of 10% for basic assistance or 20% for exceptional service). In addition, tips are customarily based on service and not on food. These days, it is common for some restaurants to charge an automatic gratuity of 18% for groups, so check before providing an additional tip. Taxi drivers usually receive a tip equivalent to 15% of the tab, and bellhops usually receive $2-$3 per bag. Often, a dollar tip covers many situations. Bartenders, for example, often merit $1 per cocktail, hotel maids are provided $1 for each day of a stay, and coat-check clerks receive $1 as well. A concierge, however, generally earns $5-$10 for standard service (additional assistance suggests more).