Looking for housing advice (Orlando, Baldwin: apartment, restaurants, shops)

[Shippie82]

Hello everyone,

I am a Florida native who, after 5.5 years working on cruise ships, will be finally moving back to land this fall! My fiancee and I are looking at the Orlando area given our work experience and just all that Orlando has to offer in the way of entertainment and lifestyle, plus it is close to my family but far enough so that they will have to call before making a visit... :-)

I know Orlando fairly well but have never looked too closely at residential areas and I am just curious for peoples' opinions on a nice place for us to move into. We are looking for an apartment (1 or 2 bedroom) in a decent area that is walking or very short driving distance to shops, restaurants, supermarkets etc. Budget is $800-1000/mo. An urban village kind of area would be ideal but I know these places are hard to come by here and most like Baldwin Park are expensive.

Any help/suggestions would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!