After three days of parks, we decided to visit the Premium Outlets at the top of International Drive. We arrived enthusiastically early at 9.00 only to find the shops opened at 10.00 – but this gave us an opportunity to see what was on offer.

Unfortunately, Hotdog wasn’t feeling too well and had to make a dash to the men’s room. It turns out he took some laxative the night before and it was now having the desired effect! He returned about 10 minutes later pale as Casper and I thought we would have to return to the hotel. He also happened to pick the only restroom with two rather burly men fixing a leak! The expression on their faces when he exited the cubicle to wash his hands was one of wonder that someone could pass so much wind!

You can go mad buying stuff! There are some good deals, but we were only after trainers and tees. People dress differently on holiday – that t-shirt may look cool in Orlando, but could be a fashion disaster back home, so you have to be careful. Managed to get a pair of Nike running trainers each. Hotdog was tempted by the Levis – 2 pairs for $78 about £48. Back in UK 501’s are £75 a pair! (2013 Exchange rates)

Another lunch – another burger! Hotdog couldn’t wait to try Five Guys, which is fab and so glad they are coming to the UK (have since learned there is one in Covent Garden, London – YAY). Love the way the guy calls out – WE GOT TWO PATTIES! A pattern was beginning to emerge in Hotdogs holiday diet – he was slightly worried he’ll go home with a burger belly!

After lunch, it began to rain, and then rained really hard, so we made our way around the shops like we were walking on the outside ledge of a skyscraper. After a few hours of relentless downpour, we decided to call it a day. We had to run for the I-Ride shelter through deep puddles and were soaked through by the time the trolley arrived. Back at the hotel, the staff greeted us with much amusement.

The rain wasn’t easing and we spent the rest of the afternoon looking out of the window like miserable kids on a Sunday afternoon with nothing but Songs of Praise to look forward too. Eventually, the rain stopped, so we showered and dressed for dinner.

Tonight we decided to give Big Italy up the road a try. The food was OK – especially the pizza, however, we did have the most annoying waiter who insisted on rushing us. He actually brought the bill over before we finished our main course!

More rain is forecast for tomorrow so we decided on another day of shopping – this time undercover!

Woke up at a reasonable time, Hotdog was still snoozing but soon woke once the coffee maker started its death howls as is gurgled out a fresh brew.

The traffic on International Drive was beginning to get busy and it wasn’t long before we heard police sirens. At the junction of International Drive and Universal Bv there appeared to be an accident involving a car, an SUV and a police car. In true American style, there were huge fire trucks, medics and at least 10 police cars. No one appeared to be injured and the whole event made the FOX35 evening news!

We love FOX35 in the morning as they can predict the weather to an inch of its life! The weather man would say “rainfall expected in 43 minutes” and he was usually spot on! More rain was forecast today, so we took a taxi to Mall Millennia.

This is a shopping Mall! A good mix of medium to high brand goods. Hotdog has been after a winter jacket for ages. He spotted an A&F jacket priced at $140 – but was reduced to $99 and then had a further reduction at the till to $74.54 including sales tax, about £46! Bargain, as this jacket would cost about £140 in the UK! Got a few bargains in Hollister, but we found their range disappointing. We hear you saying – two 40 somethings in Hollister? We love the vibe and their lounge pants! I wasn’t really interested in anything until I spotted a Ralph Lauren bag. This wasn’t on offer, however, the same bag in the UK retails for £280 – she bagged a bargain at £151.21!

Popped into Cheesecake Factory and bought a slice Snickers Bar Cheesecake… Took a taxi back to the hotel – chilled for a few hours and then headed out to dinner at TGI’s just off International Drive. TGI’s was a disappointment as we found the food sub par. Hotdog complained to the manager and his meal was removed from the bill. The service was OK, but as we said the food was poor.

Walked back to the hotel – luckily Hotdog still had his slice of Snickers Bar Cheesecake – it was yummo!

After two days of rain and shopping, we were desperate for some more park action!