We stayed here for 5 nights in mid-May 2012. We're a young couple who wanted to visit Disney World on a tight budget (and in the off-season), and were able to use Marriott points for our stay here. We did not rent a car.
Frankly, the hotel is very basic and passable for just coming back, sleeping, and waking up early and leaving again. Given how much of a hassle we found taking the shuttle to the parks, we do not recommend this hotel for travelers without a car.
Other comments:
- There is NO SHUTTLE from the airport to the hotel; unless you rent a car, the taxi fee will be approximately $50. However, you can take the Orlando Public Bus #111 for $2 and that will drop you off about a 15-minute walk from the hotel, close to Downtown Disney. Very convenient.
- Many large school groups pass through here. Because were in the off-season, it was fine for us; but we could see how it would be a hassle in the busy summer months.
- Hotel has free breakfast. However, it was very basic, with chalky eggs straight out of a carton and mealy bagels. Hardly any fresh fruit or high quality ingredients. Seemed like a way to fill up on calories, but that was about it. Environmentally un-friendly styrofoam plates and cups.
- Rooms have small fridge and microwave. We did not use these, but could be convenient for others.
- The hotel contracts out to have a shuttle service to/from the Disney parks. However, it costs $7/person per day. (If you are in the Marriott rewards program, you might get a complimentary pass -- ask.) Also, the service was frequently late. One morning, the 8am shuttle did not depart until closer to 8:25am, a hassle if you are trying to maximize time at the parks. In addition, we were told that the shuttles sometimes sell out, which would leave travelers without a car in a lurch. Lastly, the way that some of the drivers drove the shuttles scared us to death (weaving in and out of traffic, etc.!).
- The area around the hotel is not very walkable. There are a few restaurants (Golden Corral, Bahama Breeze), but that's about it. No stores, shops, etc. for strolling.
- Rooms are fine, clean. We had our laptops stored in the room and had zero problems with theft or disruption of our things.
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