Pre-Travel

Passports & ESTA

Required travel documents are mandatory for every traveller, please action this as soon as possible.
If you do not have a passport, please contact us immediately at vanquis@sidlee.com.

Every traveller on this trip, including children and babies, must have their own valid travel documents before departure. Please do not leave this to the last minute.

A valid passport for every traveller, including babies and children
At least 6 months' validity remaining after your return date of 31 October 2026
An approved ESTA for every traveller — must be approved before you fly
If you hold a non-UK passport, check US entry requirements and UK re-entry requirements and contact us if unsure

How to apply for your ESTA

The ESTA is the official US travel authorisation for most UK passport holders. Each traveller — including children — requires their own individual ESTA.

1

One per traveller

Every person including babies needs their own ESTA.

2

Apply early

Apply online at least 72 hours before travel.

3

Valid 2 years

Or until your passport expires — whichever comes first.

4

Official site only

Only apply via esta.cbp.dhs.gov — avoid third-party sites.

Apply at esta.cbp.dhs.gov ↗

⚠️ Beware of third-party websites charging inflated fees. The official site charges a small government fee only. We'll share a step-by-step guide by email.

Questions? vanquis@sidlee.com

🛡️ Travel Insurance

We provide travel insurance for every guest as part of the experience. Please be aware that pre-existing medical conditions are not covered — guests with such conditions will need to arrange their own additional insurance before departure. If this applies to you, please contact us at vanquis@sidlee.com and we'll share the policy details so you can assess any additional cover needed.

Preparation

Travel Essentials

In late October, Orlando is warm and sunny with cooler evenings — but showers are common, so come prepared. Here's what to pack.

👟

Comfortable walking shoes

👕

Lightweight clothing & shorts

🥽

Light jumper for evenings

💡

Swimwear for the resort pool

🕶

Sunglasses & a hat

☀️

Suncream SPF 30+

💧

Refillable water bottle

🔋

Portable phone charger

🔌

US plug adapter

💊

Medication (original packaging)

🛂

Passport + ESTA approval

🌧️

Lightweight waterproof jacket

💼

Pushchair if travelling with young children

👶 Travelling with Children

🍼 Formula & Baby Food

Baby formula and food are allowed through airport security. Liquids and gels for infants are exempt from standard limits, but should be presented separately for screening.

👶 Changing Facilities

Baby changing facilities are available at the airport and on most flights. Most aircraft have fold-down changing tables in the lavatories.

🛴 Plane Cots (Bassinet)

If your child requires a plane cot/bassinet, please let us know in advance so we can arrange one for your flight.

🚗 Car Seats

Car seats are not required on coaches; children may travel safely in a normal seat. You are welcome to bring your own if preferred.

For infants who cannot yet sit unaided, a parent or guardian must hold the child securely on their lap for the duration of the coach journey. If you would prefer to use your own car seat or infant carrier, please let the hosting team know in advance so we can make sure it can be safely secured.

💼 Push Chairs / Strollers

You may bring your own push chair. Strollers can also be rented in Orlando or inside theme parks, though rental prices can be high.

💡 Tip

Label your child's items and arrive early at the airport to allow extra time for security and boarding.

Preparation

Baggage & Liquids

To help your journey run smoothly, please take note of the baggage allowances and liquid restrictions for your charter flight from London Heathrow to Orlando.

🧴 Baggage Allowance

Each guest is permitted:

1 × Hold suitcase — up to 20kg
1 × Hand luggage bag — up to 5kg

If you plan to travel with special baggage or equipment (e.g. sports gear, instruments, medical equipment or oversized items), please inform the Vanquis Events Team in advance so we can make the necessary arrangements.

💧 Liquids in Hand Luggage

UK airport security rules apply:

Liquids must be in containers of 100ml or less
All containers must fit in one clear, resealable plastic bag (approx. 20cm × 20cm)
Only one bag per person is allowed
Items must be removed from your bag at security for screening

Liquids include:

Drinks, perfumes, cosmetics
Gels, creams, lotions, pastes (e.g. toothpaste)
Sprays and similar substances

💡 Top Tips

Pack larger toiletries in your hold luggage
Weigh your suitcase before leaving home to avoid surprises
Keep essential items (passport, medication, valuables) in your hand luggage

Getting There

Travel to/from Airport

Everything you need to know about getting to and from London Heathrow.

✈️ Departure Details

Airport: London Heathrow (LHR)
Terminal: Terminal 3
Check-in opens: 3 hours prior to departure
Exact meeting time: To be confirmed

Please ensure you arrive at the airport with plenty of time to check-in, drop your bags, and clear security.

🚘 Travel to the Airport

You are kindly asked to make your own way to and from the airport. To make this easy, you will be provided with two Uber vouchers (one each way), which can be used for:

Car transfers to and from the airport
Train journeys
Even hotel bookings if needed

We recommend planning your journey in advance to ensure a smooth and stress-free arrival. If the amount on your Uber voucher is not sufficient, please contact the Vanquis Events Team for assistance.

🏢 Staying Near the Airport

If you prefer to travel to Heathrow the day before departure, here are some convenient hotel options near Terminal 3:

Sofitel London Heathrow — Premium option with direct terminal access (via short transfer)
Hilton Garden Inn London Heathrow T2 & T3 — Walking distance to Terminal 3
Radisson Blu Edwardian Heathrow Hotel — Stylish and comfortable, short drive away
Renaissance London Heathrow Hotel — Great runway views and close proximity
ibis London Heathrow Airport — Budget-friendly and reliable

All of these can be booked using your Uber voucher if you choose to stay overnight.

Travel Day

Your Chartered Flight

A dedicated Virgin Atlantic charter from London Heathrow to Orlando — exclusively for Vanquis Orlando Experience guests.

LHR

London Heathrow

✈

MCO

Orlando International

Outbound • VS649 Sat 24 Oct | 10:55 → 15:40

Return • VS650 Sat 31 Oct | 20:25 → Sun 1 Nov 08:55

✈️

Airline

Virgin Atlantic

🚁

Aircraft

Airbus A330-300

🏠

Terminal (LHR)

Terminal 3
Virgin Handling

🕑

Check-in Opens

07:55
Closes 09:55

💺

Seating

To be confirmed

🍳

Catering

Hot meal
& soft drinks

Your Travel Day

Your Vanquis hosting team will be at Heathrow Terminal 3 to greet you. You'll be directed straight to the dedicated charter check-in desk, where the team will help you check your bags and get your boarding pass — no navigating the main check-in hall on your own.

Once checked in, the experience is yours. Head through security at your leisure, browse the Terminal 3 shops and duty free, grab a coffee or a bite to eat — plenty of time before the gate opens.

Boarding will be called in the usual way. Your host team will keep you updated throughout the morning.

🏦

Arrive at Terminal 3

Meet your hosting team at the dedicated charter check-in desk. Check-in opens at 07:55 and closes at 09:55.

🔒

Clear security

Make your way through security in your own time. Terminal 3 has plenty to explore once you're through.

☕

Shops, food & drinks

Browse duty free, pick up a book, grab breakfast or a pre-flight drink. The terminal is yours until boarding is called.

✈️

Board VS649 — 10:55 departure

Sit back and enjoy the flight. A hot meal and soft drinks will be served on board.

🏠

Arrive Orlando — 15:40 local time

Your group transfer will be waiting to take you directly to the JW Marriott Grande Lakes. Nothing to organise on arrival.

If you have dietary requirements, medical needs, flying anxiety or are travelling with very young children, please let us know in advance.

📧 vanquis@sidlee.com

Accommodation

Your Hotel

Your home for the week — everything you need to know before you arrive.

JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes

Your home for the week — a luxury 4-star resort close to all of Orlando's major attractions. Spacious rooms, world-class pools, multiple dining options and resort-level comfort.

🍳 Breakfast is included throughout your stay.

🕑️ Check-in & Rooms: Details including check-in time and room allocation will be confirmed closer to departure and added here.

⚠️ If you have any special requests regarding your stay, please contact vanquis@sidlee.com. Please do not contact the hotel directly.

JW Marriott ↗

Itinerary

✈ Departure: London Heathrow

📅 Dates: 24–31 October 2026 (departing 31 Oct — landing LHR 1 Nov)

🕐 Flights: VS649 departs 10:55 · VS650 returns 20:25

1

Saturday, 24 October

Arrival Day — London Heathrow → Orlando

▼

Departure

London Heathrow

Charter Flight to Orlando

Please arrange your own transport to Heathrow using the £150 Uber voucher provided. Head to Terminal 3, where your Vanquis hosting team will meet you and take you straight to the dedicated charter check-in desk — no need to queue in the main check-in hall. They'll help you check your bags and collect your boarding pass. Check-in opens at 07:55 and closes at 09:55, with your charter flight departing at 10:55. Once checked in, make your way through security at your leisure and enjoy the Terminal 3 shops, duty free and dining before boarding.

Arrival

Orlando, Florida

Welcome to Orlando — Transfer to Resort

The hosting team will meet you in arrivals and escort you to your group transfer. Settle into the stunning JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes. Join us for a briefing session to learn more about the upcoming days. The rest of the evening is yours to enjoy.

2

Sunday, 25 October

SeaWorld Orlando — Coaster Capital & Marine Life

▼

Full Day

SeaWorld Orlando

A full day of marine life encounters and record-breaking roller coasters. Headline attractions include Pipeline: The Surf Coaster, Mako (Orlando's tallest hypercoaster), Penguin Trek, and the brand-new SEAQuest: Legends of the Deep — a world-first suspended dark ride opening in 2026.

🚌 Group transfers from and to hotel included. · 💳 Food and beverage included in park pass.

3

Monday, 26 October

Disney's Magic Kingdom — Pure Disney Magic

▼

Full Day

Magic Kingdom

Disney's Magic Kingdom

Step through the gates of Disney's most iconic park. TRON Lightcycle/Run, Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, the Haunted Mansion and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. Plus the Festival of Fantasy parade.

In the evening, do not miss the dazzling nighttime parade celebrating magical moments from Disney stories. Find a sweet spot under the stars to watch the fireworks show Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away.

🚌 Group transfers from and to hotel included. · 💳 $160 per person Food and beverage allowance.

4

Tuesday, 27 October

Leisure Day & Group Dinner at Icon Park

▼

Morning & Afternoon

JW Marriott

Leisure Day — Recharge at the Resort

Enjoy the resort's world-class pools, relax with the family, or venture out independently. Recharge ahead of two huge final park days.

💳 Food and beverage included in the resort.

Evening

Icon Park

Group Dinner — Brother Jimmy's BBQ

Join the wider Vanquis group for a hosted evening at Brother Jimmy's at Icon Park. American BBQ, great food and amazing atmosphere with the 400ft Orlando Eye right on your doorstep.

🚌 Group transfers from and to hotel included.

5

Wednesday, 28 October

Universal Studios Florida & Universal Islands of Adventure

▼

Full Day

Universal Orlando

Universal Studios Florida & Universal Islands of Adventure

Ride the Apex Predator of roller coasters, Jurassic World VelociCoaster, make friends with Illumination’s mischievous Minions, discover The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ – Diagon Alley™ and catch the Hogwarts Express™ to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ – Hogsmeade™ where you can join Hagrid™ and Fly into the Forbidden Forest.

🚌 Group transfers from and to hotel included. · 💳 $160 per person Food and beverage allowance.

6

Thursday, 29 October

VIP Wild Florida Adventure Park

▼

Morning

Wild Florida

VIP Wild Florida Adventure Park

Glide deep into 4,200 acres of protected Everglades on a thrilling airboat, face-to-face with wild alligators, bald eagles and extraordinary Florida wildlife. Then explore the Gator Park with 200+ animals, live shows and the Hawk Swamp boardwalk.

🚌 Group transfers from and to hotel included. · 🍽 Lunch included.

Evening

Disney Springs

Disney Springs — Food, Shopping & Entertainment

100+ restaurants, bars and shops including The BOATHOUSE on the water and celebrity chef dining. In 2026, brand-new LEVEL99 adds 60+ challenge rooms for adults.

🚌 Group transfers from and to hotel included. · 💳 $80 per person Food and beverage allowance.

7

Friday, 30 October

Disney's Hollywood Studios — Grand Finale

▼

Full Day

Hollywood Studios

Disney's Hollywood Studios

The perfect grand finale. Rise of the Resistance, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, Toy Story Land, Tower of Terror and Rock 'n' Roller Coaster. In Summer 2026, the brand-new Walt Disney Studios land opens within Animation Courtyard.

🚌 Group transfers from and to hotel included. · 💳 $160 per person Food and beverage allowance.

8

Saturday, 31 October

Departure — Return to London Heathrow

▼

Morning

JW Marriott

Check-out & Transfer to Orlando Airport

Check out of the hotel and make your way to Orlando International Airport. Settle any personal hotel charges prior to departure. Your hosting team will confirm group transfer timings in advance.

In-flight

Charter to LHR

Return Charter Flight to London Heathrow

Arrive home with a full memory card and an equally full heart. Please arrange your own transport home using the second £150 Uber voucher provided. Arrival time confirmed closer to departure.

Itinerary and timings are subject to change. Full timings will be shared closer to departure.

Know Your Programme

Parks & Experiences

Key information about your accommodation, parks and included services.

SeaWorld Orlando

Orlando's undisputed Coaster Capital with 7 world-class coasters. 2026 landmark: SEAQuest: Legends of the Deep — the world's first suspended dark ride. Plus Mako, Pipeline: The Surf Coaster and Penguin Trek.

SeaWorld Orlando ↗

Download on theApp Store

Get it onGoogle Play

Disney's Magic Kingdom

The most magical place on earth. TRON Lightcycle/Run, Pirates of the Caribbean, the Haunted Mansion and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. Plus the Festival of Fantasy parade and brand-new nighttime spectacle Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away under Cinderella Castle fireworks.

Disney's Magic Kingdom ↗

Download on theApp Store

Get it onGoogle Play

Universal Orlando

Ride the Apex Predator of roller coasters, Jurassic World VelociCoaster, make friends with Illumination’s mischievous Minions, discover The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ – Diagon Alley™ and catch the Hogwarts Express™ to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ – Hogsmeade™ where you can join Hagrid™ and Fly into the Forbidden Forest.

Universal Orlando ↗

Download on theApp Store

Get it onGoogle Play

VIP Wild Florida Adventure Park

Glide deep into 4,200 acres of protected Everglades on a high-speed airboat. Expert captains bring you face-to-face with wild alligators, bald eagles and extraordinary Florida wildlife.

Airboat ride through 4,200 acres of protected Everglades
Wild alligator, bald eagle and wildlife encounters
Wild Florida Gator Park (200+ animals)
Live shows and alligator demonstrations
500ft sightseeing dock and Hawk Swamp boardwalk

Disney Springs

World-class open-air shopping, dining and entertainment — no park ticket required. 100+ restaurants and shops including The BOATHOUSE on the water. In 2026, brand-new LEVEL99 with 60+ challenge rooms for adults.

Disney Springs ↗

Disney's Hollywood Studios

Rise of the Resistance, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, Tower of Terror and Rock 'n' Roller Coaster. In Summer 2026, the brand-new Walt Disney Studios land opens.

Hollywood Studios ↗

Spending Support

Prepaid Cards & Allowances

Spending support through Visa prepaid cards and Food and beverage allowances at key locations throughout your week.

🏰

$160

per person at Disney's Magic Kingdom

🌍

$160

per person at Universal Orlando

🎬

$160

per person at Disney's Hollywood Studios

🛍

$80

per person at Disney Springs

🚖

£300

Two £150 Uber vouchers for UK airport travel

📍 Your prepaid Visa card will be given to you at the Welcome Desk upon arrival at the hotel on 24 October.

How to use your prepaid card

Your prepaid card is primarily your meal allowance — it is loaded with your food and drink budget for the days shown above, covering meals and drinks at each location where a meal is not already provided as part of the programme.

On park days with a food and drink allowance, the card is your go-to for lunch, snacks and drinks throughout the day. At Disney Springs, it covers your dinner and any drinks at the venue.

If you have any balance remaining after covering your food and drinks, you’re welcome to spend it however you like — whether that’s a souvenir, an extra treat or anything else the card is accepted for.

The card can be used anywhere that accepts this type of payment.

How to use your Uber voucher

The Vanquis Events Team will provide you with two vouchers, each worth £150. You will receive these ahead of your trip via email.

One voucher can be used on your departure day for travel to the airport, and the second voucher can be used on the day of your return from Orlando for travel back home.

The vouchers can be redeemed through the Uber application and may also be used for train travel where available.

Questions? Speak to the hosting team on the day or email vanquis@sidlee.com

Emergency Information

Important Contacts

In case of any emergency during your trip, your first point of contact should be your dedicated Vanquis Events Team Member. For life-threatening situations, please dial 911 immediately, then notify your hosting team as soon as possible.

Emergency Numbers in the U.S.

911

Main Emergency

Police, fire or medical assistance. Free to call from any phone.

988

Mental Health Crisis

Suicide prevention and mental health crisis helpline.

311

Non-Emergency Services

Non-emergency city services. Availability varies by location, including Orlando.

Local Services — Orlando

🚶 Orlando Police Department

📞 Non-Emergency: +1 407-246-2470

📍 1250 W. South St., Orlando, FL 32805

🏥 Nearest Hospital

Orlando Health Dr. P. Phillips Hospital

📞 +1 407-351-8500

📍 9400 Turkey Lake Rd, Orlando, FL 32819

24/7 emergency and full hospital services — commonly used for urgent medical needs and approximately 15–20 minutes from the hotel.

Help

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know. Can't find your answer? Email vanquis@sidlee.com

Android (Chrome): Tap the three dots menu — "Add to Home Screen" — "Add" to confirm.

iPhone / iPad (Safari): Tap the Share icon → "Add to Home Screen" → tap "Add". Once installed, the site opens just like an app from your home screen!

I made a mistake on my registration form?
Email us as soon as possible. Passport names and dates of birth must match travel documents exactly.

Can I change who travels with me?
Invitations are non-transferable. Contact us immediately if you have an issue.

I can't travel anymore?
Please contact us as soon as possible — places may be reallocated.

What passport do I need?
Valid, issued within the last 10 years, with at least 6 months' validity beyond 31 October 2026.

What is an ESTA?
UK citizens travelling for tourism up to 90 days use an ESTA. Each traveller needs their own. Apply at esta.cbp.dhs.gov at least 72 hours before travel.

Does my child need their own passport and ESTA?
Yes — every traveller including babies needs their own passport and individual ESTA.

I'm not a UK passport holder?
Check US travel requirements for your passport country and contact us if unsure.

Do I need travel insurance?
We provide travel insurance for every guest, but please be aware that pre-existing medical conditions are not covered — guests with such conditions will need to arrange their own additional insurance.

Do children need parental consent if travelling without both parents?
Yes. If a child is travelling abroad without one or both parents or legal guardians, it is recommended to carry a signed parental consent letter. This should include permission for the child to travel, basic details of the trip, and contact information for the parents or guardians. If travelling with only one parent, some airlines or immigration authorities may request a consent letter from the non-travelling parent. While requirements can vary by airline and country, having this documentation helps avoid delays or issues during check-in and border control.

Where do we depart from?
London Heathrow. Terminal, timings and meeting instructions will be provided closer to departure.

What time should we arrive at the airport?
At least 3 hours before your flight. We'll confirm the exact arrival time with your flight details.

What is the baggage allowance?
Details will be confirmed and shared via this Hub and by email before departure.

I'm nervous about flying?
Completely normal. Contact us in advance if you have specific concerns and we'll make sure you feel fully prepared.

What meals are included?
Breakfast throughout your stay, plus any meals and group dinners in the itinerary.

How will I get around Orlando?
All transportation is arranged by the hosting team — airport, parks, activities and dinner locations.

Do I need to pay a deposit at hotel check-in?
No. Check-in is managed through the group arrival process. Personal purchases during your stay are your own responsibility.

I have dietary requirements or allergies?
Please ensure these were noted on your registration form. If unsure, email vanquis@sidlee.com.

What currency is used?
US Dollar (USD, $). ATMs are widely available. Most major cards accepted.

What is the time difference?
Orlando is in the Eastern Time Zone — typically 4 hours behind the UK in late October.

What plugs and voltage are used?
Type A and B outlets, 120V/60Hz. UK travellers need a plug adaptor.

What's the weather like in October?
Warm and sunny with air conditioning indoors and cooler evenings. Pack light layers and be prepared for short bursts of heavy rain.

How does tipping work in the U.S.?
Tipping is customary in the United States and is an important part of service workers' income. Tips are usually not included in the bill unless clearly stated, so always check before paying.

→ Restaurants: 18–20% of the total bill
→ Casual dining or takeaway: smaller tip or rounding up
→ Bar: $1–$2 per drink
→ Hotel housekeeping: $2–$5 per day
→ Taxi / ride share: 10–20%

Are there ATM fees I should be aware of?
Using an ATM may incur a fee. Vanquis will waive or refund any foreign fees and charges for spend on your Vanquis credit card, but you should check the fees applied by the specific ATM provider and for any other cards you intend to use. Most ATMs have daily withdrawal limits, typically ranging from $300–$1,000.

Will I be able to use my phone?
Yes, but check international roaming charges with your provider. Hotel and park Wi-Fi is widely available.

Welcome to your Orlando Experience Hub

Passports & ESTA

One per traveller

Apply early

Valid 2 years

Official site only

Travel Essentials

👶 Travelling with Children

Baggage & Liquids

🧴 Baggage Allowance

💧 Liquids in Hand Luggage

💡 Top Tips

Travel to/from Airport

✈️ Departure Details

🚘 Travel to the Airport

🏢 Staying Near the Airport

Your Chartered Flight

Your Hotel

Itinerary

Charter Flight to Orlando

Welcome to Orlando — Transfer to Resort

SeaWorld Orlando

Disney's Magic Kingdom

Leisure Day — Recharge at the Resort

Group Dinner — Brother Jimmy's BBQ

Universal Studios Florida & Universal Islands of Adventure

VIP Wild Florida Adventure Park

Disney Springs — Food, Shopping & Entertainment

Disney's Hollywood Studios

Check-out & Transfer to Orlando Airport

Return Charter Flight to London Heathrow

Parks & Experiences

Prepaid Cards & Allowances

Important Contacts

Emergency Numbers in the U.S.

Local Services — Orlando

Frequently Asked Questions

Any questions? We're here to help.