We booked at the Driftwood via RCI, our first time ever in using RCI. I called the Driftwood personally to talk about the room we thought we would be getting, before committing on the reservation web site. Only afterwards did we discover that we had been assigned a completely different room (113A, ten feet from the performance stage next to the pool, part of Waldo's). We had serious concerns about the room location, the proximity to the band area. So much so that we called the Driftwood, who informed us that they couldn't reassign us another room, as this was an RCI issue. The Driftwood representative assured me that in spite of the location, we would enjoy our stay. I tweeted and communicated with RCI via email, and called twice. They were firm in their position, pointing out that the rules under which we reserved the room were well defined. So we decided to try it out, thinking "how bad could it be?" Well, we thought the room was excellent, and the resort is a special place. There are so few places in Florida, anywhere for that matter, where the personality of the builder continues to enchant. The room was very well appointed. Recent updates included new televisions, kitchen appliances, and the claw foot tub (with separate shower) was much appreciated. The wi fi was excellent at the entire resort. We could even access it from the beach! Now the room does face the pool area, very close to the band area. So on several nights, the music was painfully loud. If you have children, or plan on getting to sleep before 11PM, do not stay in this room. The saving grace one night was the performance by the band Voodoo. There are some extremely hi caliber musicians in this band, and they were so good, I joined the party at Waldo's, totally enjoying the music. There are several nice places to grab a sandwich or an ice cream within walking distance. Casey's Place has great burgers, but expect a long line. Worth it, though. Cravings is right across the street on Ocean Drive. It is a great place for ice cream. We took our daughter there five times in a week. Another must try is the grouper reuben sandwich at the Red Onion up a bit on 10th. Yes, that is corn flakes i the batter. Yes, it is a bit expensive. Yes, that is you, moaning in delight. We became so interested in the legacy of Waldo Sexton that we explored McKee Botanical Gardens, which is a must see. We then had dinner at the Ocean Grill, walking distance from the Driftwood. We recommend that you walk there on the beach, then slip your shoes back on before entering. This must certainly have been what Mr. Sexton intended. The Ocean Grill was great, once again, a bastion of old Florida. Be sure to have at least one martini there in honor of Mr. Sexton. The Driftwood also has a great outdoor grill area, which we used several times. Just ask for a lighter and tongs at the reception area. They even have a laundry facility, which is clean and reasonable. What really makes the Driftwood special today is the staff. They all were incredibly helpful, friendly, and efficient. So, to wrap things up, we love the Driftwood, the staff, the area at large. Vero Beach has a gem here. RCI failed in understanding our situation, or more likely, didn't care. Though they responded promptly to my concerns, they did nothing to resolve them. I give the Driftwood a solid A, and RCI an F.
Room Tip: Avoid poolside rooms, especially if you have kids, and/or are not into the party scene. Other than t...
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