“"You get what you pay for"!”
This hotel is not fancy by any means, but we weren't expecting that either. It was reasonably priced, and we knew we wouldn't be spending a lot of time in our room. The rooms are average and the beds are double beds, so if two of you are sleeping in the same bed, you don't have a lot of room to move. They also aren't the most comfortable mattresses and the pillows are cheap. The decor needs to be updated badly. The arcade in the hotel lobby was terrible. Half the machines were broken, so don't expect it to keep your kids entertained for to long. Thank God there was a "Dave and Busters" up the street! They have a pretty nice pool and hot tub, which I would say is their best feature. We spoke to a couple of the housekeepers, and they were very friendly and accommodating. The location is the reason we chose this hotel. The trolley and bus stops are close by, and there is a Friendlies on one side (if you're looking for cheap), and an Olive Garden on the other. There are other, more expensive restaurants, within walking distance. The hotel provides transportation to Sea World and Universal Studios, but only once a day. We found it more convenient to take the trolley, which comes by about every 20 minutes. I would recommend this hotel to people who are looking for convenience and location, more than fancy and comfort. It's good enough if you aren't real fussy, but as I said, "You get what you pay for"!
When to go
We went to Orlando the week after Thanksgiving, and it was a great time to go, because a lot of the kids are in school, so the parks aren't as busy and the lines aren't as long. I have also been the week before Christmas and the week after Christmas. Both are very busy times, but the week after Christmas is the busiest. I would never take that week again. There are lines for every ride and I have waited an hour and a half just to get on one ride! (and some are worst than that) Christmas time is absolutely beautiful at the parks, but if you plan on going at that time, I would recommend going at the beginning of December, not the end.
Events and shows
We went to see "Arabian Nights" and we all liked the show. (there was 3 adults) We were only disappointed in the snacks they provided before you went into the show. It was some sort of chips and dip. I think they could do better than that. Once you are seated, you are given 4 choices from a dinner menu. The kids have their own menu. The food wasn't the best I've ever had, but it was better than I thought it would be. It is unlimited wine and soda while the show is going on, which lasts about 1 1/2 hrs. The waiters and waitresses are very friendly and accommodating, but be aware that you are encouraged to tip them $5 a person at the end of the show. Our waiter did a great job, so we didn't have a problem with this. At the end of the show, some of the characters will come out and gladly take a picture with you, so bring your camera.
