May 10, 2010 - 12:46 pm
While Orlando has simply hundreds of places for you to stay during your vacation to the area, but there are six general areas in which to stay that would qualify as the best places to stay in Orlando. Picking between these locations can be an overwhelming task but there are a few things to consider about each resort that may make the decision a lot easier.
South of Disney
To the south of Disney World is Highway 192 and this highway has been a well-traveled tourist destination for many years. There are many wonderful restaurants to visit in the area, some golf courses, and some attractions for the family as well. The prices of the hotels in the area are generally less expensive when compared to hotels in other areas of the city. Bear in mind however that the hotels are usually older since most of them were built in the 1970’s. There are also not many of these hotels that will be connected with a well-known national brand.
North of Disney World
Also called the Lake Buena Vista area of Orlando this is among the newest places to find a great hotel in the city. The hotels built in this region of Orlando were all put up in the 1990’s when the national brands of hotel became interested in the area. This region also offers great dining and shopping locations within just a few miles.
Inside the Disney Resort
If you are a lover of all things Disney then you should scout the Disney resort for a place to stay. It will be the most convenient hotel for having access to Disney World since shuttles run to the front gate every thirty minutes. These hotels are the highest standard possible so expect to pay a higher price for them. The good part is that the rooms are generally spacious and can easily accommodate 3-4 people.
Universal Area
There are very good accommodation options in the Universal area although there are much less than in other areas. There are only a few hotels in the region so there is not much competition. And with no competition the prices will not stay very low.
Downtown Orlando
If your purpose for vacationing in Orlando is to see the city then a hotel in downtown Orlando will be perfect. However, they are the farthest away from the major attractions there will be a lot of time spent traveling back and forth, like the thirty-minute drive to Disney. So if you want to see the major theme parks then this may not be the best place to stay.
International Drive/Convention Center
This region of the city is located just a few minutes away from Sea World so if you are visiting that park then it will be the perfect location. Keep in mind however that these hotels are largely priced for business groups so they may be a little expensive and the amenities may not be the best. But the restaurants are excellent, just be sure to make a reservation
June 13, 2009 - 4:54 am
When you are traveling, you naturally want to have your accommodations in a convenient location. Often this is near the attraction you’re going to see or near the airport. Well, look no further for the best list of hotels near Orlando Airport.
Possibly the very best hotel is the Hyatt Regency Orlando Airport. Not only is it a four star hotel, it is located inside the main terminal of the airport. You don’t need to worry about your luggage when you arrive, it will complimentary be picked up for you and delivered to your room. There is no need to worry about how to get around town since the concierge will be more than happy to get you transportation to all the local attractions, or restaurants. Your options for this vary from a rental car all the way to a limousine. This is a hotel that just can’t be missed.
On the opposite end of the price scale is the La Quinta Orlando Airport West. On the list of hotels near Orlando Airport you could not ask for a better price but still such a long list of amenities. This list includes free shuttle service from the airport, breakfast in the morning, and free internet access to all rooms. Located conveniently on the Beeline Highway, it’s virtually a direct line to all the area attractions. There are also at least nine restaurant either within walking distance or that deliver, so you can’t possibly go hungry.
Another of the best hotels near Orlando Airport is the Amerisuites. Located in a beautifully landscaped park, the view is wonderful and peaceful. There is a complimentary airport shuttle even though it is only a mile away from the airport to begin with. A breakfast buffet is provided daily and the hotel has an on site gym. If you wish spa services, there is a massage service on call. All rooms are considered over sized by normal hotel standards, a large living area and a kitchen. So bring your own food with you and it will be just like home.
Finally there’s the Marriott Orlando Airport. It’s just two years from a complete renovation that made it one of the most environmentally friends hotels in the Orlando area. The new site features a fitness center and jogging track to keep yourself in shape after satisfying your appetite at the hotel’s on-site steakhouse. There are on-site children’s activities to keep the little ones occupied and happy. And should you find yourself needing a little pampering after a long day at the theme park there is an onsite beauty salon and barber shop. This wonderful hotel will be a great addition to any vacation.
June 10, 2009 - 4:55 am
When you are going on vacation, no matter the destination, inadvertently picking the wrong hotel can make it hard to enjoy yourself. Waking up with a cockroach on your arm when the website said it was a luxury hotel can put a damper on a trip. There are a few hotels that guest reviews, travel agents, and guidebooks agree are the best Orlando hotels. All would be a superb addition to your Orlando vacation.
One of the best luxury hotels in the Orlando area is the Ritz-Carlton Orlando Grand Lakes. It is in a very large complex and could be a vacation all by itself. The nightly rate starting at $400 is well worth it when you see what there is to do. There is a spa that is probably bigger than your home at 40,000 square feet. Kids’ activities are available, they have a lazy river and an 18-hole golf course on site. You could never leave their complex and have fun, it is definitely one of the best Orlando hotels.
The Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate is a great hotel for someone looking for a luxury hotel but at a reasonable price. It’s in a quiet place and it surrounded by over 1000 acres of natural wetlands. They feature five restaurants, a spa, a putting course and a lot more. In addition to all the on site options it is adjacent to a huge golf course and is about five miles from Walt Disney World and less that 20 miles from Universal Orlando. With rates starting at $135 nightly, it’s definitely an investment worth making.
When thinking of the best Orlando hotels, you can’t overlook a widely renowned name in luxury hotels with the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Resort. Not only does the Regency take world class to a whole new level, you will be floored with the stream in the middle of the lobby and the VIP helicopter pad. The swimming pool covers nearly half an acre and has its own waterfalls. They also feature what amounts to a summer day camp for kids. This isn’t just a day care, it’s a camp designed to keep the kids begging to come back. This doesn’t even begin to cover the list of activities offered to you for starting at $179 a night.
Finally you have another renowned name with the Marriott Orlando World Center. With the onsite golf course, tennis courts, water park and over 200 acres of landscaped grounds you’d probably be expecting a high price tag. But with rates starting at $129 nightly, at many other destinations you may be lucky to get a room and a continental breakfast for that. This is why it’s one of the best places to stay in Orlando.