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Make use of your Orlando car rental by taking full advantage of the area's theme parks. Book some time at a Disney resort in Lake Buena Vista and spend a couple days exploring Disney World, Epcot, and Universal Studios. Say bye to Mickey, drive down the coastal highway and choose where you want to soak up the sand, surf, and sun. There seems to be a more laidback attitude at the Central Florida beaches, while around Vero Beach the surf boards start to give way to private beaches and expensive parking. Once you arrive in Palm Beach, the glamour is in full swing. You might want to take detour to Delray Beach and spend some time in the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, if you need some time to relax. Drive south through Homestead to link with the Tamiami Trail and drive across the Everglades to the Paradise Coast. Along the way, you can visit the Everglades National Park and get to know a bit about the region's history. Learn more about the area's native inhabitants at the Miccosukee Indian Village or purchase some handmade crafts. Before you leave, try their fry bread, and what may have seemed like a superfluous stop will turn into a life changing experience. Keep going a few miles west and you will find yourself in Big Cypress National Preserve. The 24-mile Loop Road is fantastic for spotting wildlife during your drive through remote deep strands, dwarf cypress, and pine forests. Before driving back to Miami, book a weekend stay at one of the luxury resorts in Marco Island. The beautiful beaches make it apparent why this area is named the Paradise Coast. Collect stunning seashells, partake in water activities, or just soak up the sun. Drive straight back east and you're in Miami! It's time to debut those oversized sunglasses and put down the convertible top because these next 500 miles south are taking you on a sun-filled adventure. The Overseas Highway will take you straight down to Key West. On the way, be sure to stop frequently and discover your own attractions but here are a few recommendations to get you started. Most people snorkel at the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park or swim with dolphins at the nearby facilities. While these are obviously amazing opportunities, they come at a price. Instead go to the Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park, besides being a mouthful to say, the park has extensive trails where you can catch a rare glimpse of protected species of plants and animals. Once you reach Key West, you are now at the southernmost point of the continental U.S.! Have fun in Old Town, visit Hemingway's former abode, and indulge in some key lime pie. One of the best attractions is the Key West Garden Club, where entrance is free and the tranquility of its historic setting is priceless, much like everything else in South Florida. ML For more information, visit www.sixt.com.