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  • Writer's pictureJennifer Travis

Let's Talk Universal Orlando Hotels

As a Travel Advisor that specializes in Universal Orlando Vacations, I get asked all the time about the different resorts and which ones I like, which would I recommend,...the list goes on. The truth is all 7 of Universal's onsite resorts are all great but the trick is finding the one that will best meet your vacation needs. Each of these stunning properties falls into one of 4 unique categories which are: Value, Prime, Preferred and Premier. This is where I come in, but first let me break down Universal Orlando's seven onsite properties.


First off are the value resorts and do not let the name fool you as these resorts pack some amazing amenities and benefits to guests staying at the resorts. There are 2 resorts in this category and they are Endless Summer Surfside Inn & Suites as well as Endless Summer Dockside Inn and Suites. From a transportation standpoint they both offer shuttle bus services to the parks which comes about every 15 minutes and can get you to the park in 5-10 minutes. These resorts also have reasonably priced family suites that can accommodate up to six people and even feature a kitchenette with a decent sized fridge and picnic table for meals and hanging out.


Next are the two Prime Resorts, Cabana Bay Beach Resort and Universal’s Aventura Hotel. These resorts also fall in the affordable category with the added bonus of their location. You can walk from the hotel to the parks in about 15 minutes as both of these resorts are located on the main section of Universal Orlando Resorts property. Cabana Bay has an amazing retro vibe with a 2 Bedroom suite that can sleep up to 8 guests where as Aventura is more modern and sleeps up up to 5 people in their suites. In addition to the standard amenities these resorts also feature several full service restaurants.


There is one resort that falls in the Preferred resort category and that is Loews Sapphire Falls. Welcome to island time at this moderately priced resort also features a walking path to the parks as well as a water taxi that drops guests off in City Walk just steps away from Islands Adventure & Universal Studios. They offer a wide variety of accommodations that sleep up to 5 as well as adjoining rooms. This hotel also features the delicious restaurant Amatista Cookhouse and Strong Water Tavern which features a wall of vintage rums. Loews Sapphire Falls is also a great space for a big event or conference given the spacious layout of their conference center.



Finally our last category is the Premier category and here you will find 3 stunning properties which are Loews Royal Pacific, Universal’s Hard Rock Hotel, and Loews Portofino Bay Hotel. When looking at one of these resorts know that you will be getting the highest level of amenities and perks when you stay at one of these resorts. One of the best perks is the inclusion of Unlimited Express Passes with your hotel stay. These resorts are ht eonly on property resorts that offer club level amenities. From a transportation perspective these resorts are all within walking distance and offer the water taxi as well as a shuttle bus to Volcano Bay. I will also add they have some of the most creative themed family suites on property, Despicable Me, Jurassic Park, and Rockstar theming.



Now all of these resorts share some standard amenities and perks that are important to note. All of these resort come with pool access, fitness center, game room, dining options, resort-wide charging privileges, complimentary (and convenient) transportation to the parks, complimentary merchandise delivery and early park admission. Rooms include televisions, safes, refrigerators, free Wifi and coffee makers. Also each of these resorts feature a Vacation Planning Center which is a great spot to grab your tickets before heading to the parks!


Staying on property will only enhance your vacation and keep you close to all of the epic adventures that await you at Universal Orlando Resorts.As a Universal Travel Advisor it is my job to get to know my clients and help them decide which resort will meet their needs while on vacation. With so many amazing resort options at Universal Orlando Resorts it is important to have a travel agents that knows these resorts well and can help idenitfy the best resort for your next Universal Vacation.


Contact me today to book your next Universal Orlando or Hollywood Vacation and I will help ensure you are booked at the best possible resort to meet your families needs.


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