Conference koolit::disney

The Days Inn where you'll be stating is located about 1 mile east of the
entrance to WDW.  I've never stayed there, but most of the hotels in that area
are pretty good.  They have to be or they'd get killed by the competition.

The price you're paying sounds excellent.  I'm going in April and they quoted me
something in the $70's.  I got reservations at the nearby Quality Inn (with
kitchenette) for $48/night (less 10% discount for AAA).

By the way, the Days Inn is connected to an attraction called Old Town, which
has some quaint shops.  It also has Little Darlin's, which has "oldies" shows
every night with entertainers from the 50s.  And if you like Jimmy Buffet, as I
do, you'll love the MANGO REPUBLIC shop.

--Jay

    My parents have stayed there a couple of times and they love it.
    I believe that there is a grocery store and a laundrymat located
    fairly close by.  
    
    My parents have gone on at least one trip a year since retirement
    ( afew of them to WDW) and they usually stay at a Days Inn, they
    like the qualtiy/price, of course they get the senior citizen discount
    which makes the price that much better.
    
    dv

    re .1 & .2
    
    Thank you both!
    
    Mike

    
    	During our trip to Florida last year, we stayed at the 
    	1776 Inn on International Drive.  We will be staying there
    	again this year.  It's not a bad place and it's inexpensive.
    	We haven't been lucky enough to have the money to stay
    	in Disney World...Someday....
    
    

    Re: .4
    
         The 1776 Inn has been renamed to the, " Best Western Universal
       Flags". I could possibly stay there or at the Quality Inn Plaza
       in June, depending on what Crimson ends up with.
    
    George 

    We stayed at the most beautiful hotel I was ever in, it came as
    part of out cruise package (Premier), we stayed on International
    Drive at the Park Suite Hotel.  It is a beauty, with an incredible
    atrium, with a waterfall, fountains etc...really ritzy..and first
    class.
    
    Lynne S.

    In December we stayed at the Travelodge (not the Maingate) in
    Kissimee, about 6 mi from DW and it cost us $29.00 per night. (It
    was a special offer. We later learned that the regular price is
    $39.00 per night.) The hotel had a color TV, a pool, and was 
    clean as a whistle. Considering how much time one spends in the room, the 
    price was right and we did not mind the "distance". In fact, it 
    gave us an opportunity to try the less pricier restaurants.  We
    set a meal budget of $50.00 per day for the three of us. We only
    went over budget twice in a week. Most days we spent about $45.00.
    
    The year previous, we spent 1 night at the Disneyland Hotel, $99
    per night. The only difference was that you got the Disney channel
    for free.                                                         
    
    Believe me your best bet is to contact the Kissimme/St Cloud chamber
    of Commerce for a listing of the hotels and motels in the area.

    
    
    I'll be staying there from 3/18 to 3/26. The brochure looks nice,
    anyone familiar with this establishment? Its costing $760.00 for
    the week for 3 people. It includes a Disney 3-day world pass for
    3, and 1 day for 3 at Seaworld.
    
    I'm going by AMTRAK, I sure hope there are no secondary srikes.
    
    Mike
    

    Has anyone stayed at the Orlando Marriott World Center?  I will
    be leaving in 3 weeks to spend 8 hopefully wonderful days there.
    From what I understand, it is supposed to be the best hotel outside
    of Disney.  Any input would be greatly appreciated!
    
    Thanks
    

    
    	
    Mike
    
    	My girlfriend and I stayed at the Maingate back in August
    	of '86 the first week we were vacationing in Florida.
    
    	It's not a bad establishment, but it's not the best either.
    	It's located on US 192 in Kissimee so if you're familiar with
    	the area you can find some things to do there as well as in
    	Orlando.
    
    	The hotel is located on a strip which makes it real easy to
    	find souvenir shops and some decent restaurants without having
    	to pay the more expensive prices you'd find closer to WDW.
    
    	The parking is usually not very bad since there are a variety
    	of entrances (which helps when it's pouring out like we so 
    	unluckily found out!)  (^8  and one of them will undoubtedly
    	be somewhat close to your room.
    
    	There was a little mall that was being built adjacent to the
    	hotel a few years ago but there wasn't much in it for stores
    	when we were staying there.
    
    	Sorry I can't remember much more.  We didn't spend too much
    	time there!!  
    
    	Tigg~~

    
    
    	For anyone who is interested, I highly recommend the 
    	Sonesta Villas at 10,000 Turkey Lake Road.  They are
    	somewhat more expensive than a regular hotel, but I
    	find the extra money is well worth it!!
    
    	If I can remember correctly, it was only $50 more or
    	so a night to stay there than the Radisson Inn Maingate
    	mentioned in the previous reply.  
    	
    	We had a kitchenette complete with pots/pans, etc. which
    	entered into a living room with a patio door overlooking
    	Sand Lake and a nice back lawn.  A half bath is downstairs.
    
    	Once upstairs there is a BIG walk in closet, a complete
    	bath, and a LARGE bedroom with two full beds.  There is a 
    	TV upstairs and downstairs as well as phones.
    
    	Maid service is provided every morning and there are 
    	activities to enjoy on Sand Lake for a small fee.  This
    	includes learning to waterski!
    
    	Tigg~~

    Moved by moderator, note 50 has been set/nowrite
    
    Claude
    
                <<< INDMKT::DUA0:[NOTES$LIBRARY]DISNEY.NOTE;1 >>>
                                 -< Disneyana >-
================================================================================
Note 50.0                 Anyone stay at the Marriott?                   1 reply
HOCUS::MARON                                          7 lines  10-MAR-1989 15:46
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Has anyone stayed at the Orlando Marriott World Center?  I will
    be leaving in 3 weeks to spend 8 hopefully wonderful days there.
    From what I understand, it is supposed to be the best hotel outside
    of Disney.  Any input would be greatly appreciated!
    
    Thanks
    
================================================================================
Note 50.1                 Anyone stay at the Marriott?                    1 of 1
HAZEL::FLYNN                                         14 lines  10-MAR-1989 16:30
                            -< Marriott- thumbs up >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    
    Yes, I have stayed twice at the Marriott World Center. It is
    a real large hotel. I have enjoyed staying by the pool area,
    which is off from the main hotel. The parking is closer to 
    your room and it's abit quieter. Enjoyed these quest rooms 
    as you dont' have elevator hassles.Alot of restaurants in there.
    We've enjoyed the Sunday breakfast buffet. About $ 10 a head, but
    really nice. In fact, we've stayed elsewhere, and have come back
    into the Marriott for the breakfast only. Very nice. Super
    convenient to Disney. And I enjoyed getting away from the Disney
    scene after a whole day, you get abit disneyed-out.
    
    I recommend the hotel.
    

    For our first and probably only ever trip over to WDW I have a
    reservation at the Comfort Inn at Lake Buena Vista. My budget is
    not unlimited and I have a room for 4 at $41 plus $1.50 service
    + tax. I get free travel to WDW and the kids eat free if we eat
    in the hotel. Question is - is LBV a good place to be ? I guess
    we're closer to WDW but further from the shops,restaurents on I-Drive.
    I will have a hire car so what would you recommend. I will be
    definately be buying 4-day passports to WDW so feel that we're better
    off being close. Suggestions anyone.
    
    Richard Bell 
    UK SWAS

rep to < Note 37.12 by CLEGG::BELL >
                             -< Comfort Inn LBV ? >-

>    For our first and probably only ever trip over to WDW I have a
>    reservation at the Comfort Inn at Lake Buena Vista.
    
    This is rated 2 diamonds, see note on WDW resorts, in one of it replies
    I  posted  AAA diamonds ratings.  The Hotel has  a  heated  pool,  Coin
    Laundry and restaurant.
        
>    Question is - is LBV a good place to be ? I guess
>    we're closer to WDW but further from the shops,restaurents on I-Drive.
    
    As far  as  I  can  tell, your about 1/4 mile from the Lake Buena Vista
    entrance to WDW,  You'll  most  likely  see the Hotels from the Village
    area from your room.    This  is  about as close to WDW as you can get,
    with exceptions to a few  places on 192 in Kissimmee.  There are shops,
    although rather expensive at the WDW Shopping Village nearby, otherwise
    all the bargains etc will be found  on  I-drive about 12 miles north or
    on 192 in Kissimmee about 6 miles south.
    
>    I will have a hire car so what would you recommend. I will be
>    definately be buying 4-day passports to WDW so feel that we're better
>    off being close. Suggestions anyone.

    If you rent a car for your entire stay, use  the  car  instead  of  the
    hotel transportation, you'll find it more convenient than the hotel bus
    schedule, it'll cost  you $3/day but is worth the expense.  Plus you'll
    be able to go  back to the room in the afternoon and relax, and go back
    later in the day.
    
    The best way to get  to  WDW  from your Hotel is to take 535 south, and
    just prior to rt 4, you'll  see  Village  Blvd (Can't miss the sign) on
    your right, enter WDW and  when  it  come  to  the  end of Village Blvd
    (paking lot straight ahead) take left onto Buena Vista Drive, To get to
    the Various Parks do the following
    
        Disney-MGM Studio Tour -  Stay on Buena Vista Drive and follow sign
                        to parking lot.
        Epcot Center - From Buena Vista Drive take  a right on Epcot Center
                        Drive follow the signs to enter parking.
        Magic Kingdom - Same as Epcot Center but instead  continue on Epcot
                        Center  Drive  until it end at World Drive and turn
                        right on World Drive and follow the signs.
    
    It is  really hard to get lost since they have signs everywhere leading
    the way.
        

    Claude, 
    
     I stayed at the Marriott World Center when I was attending a poetry
    convention with my girlfriend, now wife, the accomodations were
    excellent and the room which we could see the Epcot Center Sphere
    every morning from our balcony which overlooked the pool,(bring
    your binoculars for the view). There were many resturants right
    in the hotel,from fast food and full course meals,there is also
    an arcade with many games on lower level. They have an elevator
    in the hotel(actually two) which are the open glass variety
    (did not ride however as am no good at heights).
       Our stay was very enjoyable, many places to get drinks,lounges
    and piano player in lobby lounge during the evening.
    
    We liked it so much that we actually stayed an extra day over the
    convention time.
    
      If you have any more questions get in contact with me at IND
    My name is Paul  Baird and I work  in Office Services.
    
    This is in Marlboro and my DTN is 262-8464
    
    
    Magically
    
    
    Paul
    

    There are a couple of other hotels worth considering in the Kissimee
    area, depending on your priorities:
    
    .	The Hyatt (by the entrance, not the Grand Cypress) is handy,
    	and not terribly expensive.  I'm kind of a Hyatt bigot, so I
    	like this one -- not the typical high-rise monolith Hyatt. 
    	I haven't had a chance to stay at the G.C. (yet).
    
    .	If you don't mind a little drive, the Sheraton World is a decent
    	place, and lets you combine WDW with Sea World (which is right
    	across the street).
    
    .	The Royal Plaza (if it's still called that) in Disney Village
    	is nice too.
    
    I think they're all 3+ star hotels, more or less...
    
    Have fun!
    
    tim
    

    Hi there!!!   
         
    We (wife, 2 kids, 4 & 8 and M-I-L) are going down to WDW in mid-June,
    staying at "Fantasy World Villas" outside of WDW.  The travel agent
    recommended this place, brochures look nice, but I was wondering
    if anyone out there has any First-hand (or second-hand) experience.
    Cost is $105/night, staying for 7 nights; for that we get 2 BR,
    Kitchen and Living Room...facilities are pools, jacuzzi, tennis cts, etc.
                                                             
    Any comments/experiences welcome.                        
                                                             
    This will be my third trip... 3 days at the contemporary in pre-epcot
    days, 1 day with our 8 year old (then 4) in 85...but this time I/we
    get to spend 7 FULL DAYS AT THE WORLD!!!                           
                                                                       
    Steve                                                              
                                                                       

reply to -1    

Steve,

I have stayed at the FantasyWorld Club Villas 3 times and would heartily
recommend them.  The place is clean, and you've got plenty of room to spread
out.  With the full kitchen, you can save money on eating out, and you can save
a lot of time by having a quick breakfast and getting out to the parks.  Also,
they just built a new Publix supermarket nearby, so you can zip in for food.
The best part is the washer and dryer on the 2nd floor (some are on the first
floor) so you can easily throw in a load whenever you need to.  And there is a
dishwasher in the kitchen.

Also, they have many pools, so there will be one nearby your villa.  And they
are reasonably convenient to the WDW entrance (<5 mi).

My mother-in-law came with us when we stayed there and it worked out great.  She
stayed in to rest and babysit the kids while my wife and I went out in the
evening.   I wish she had come on our last trip.

--Jay
                                                                       

    Does anyone know of an inexpensive motel near Disney (outside of
    the property, obviously!) that they would recommend?  The afternoon
    we arrive in Orlando, we would like a place to "land"  -just one
    night (after that, we will be staying on the Disney grounds).
    
    We would like to save $$$ on this part of the stay since it will be
    basically just for the night of our arrival, and we won't really be
    spending any time at this motel except for the evening of our arrival (in
    which case, a nice pool would be great, come to think of it!).
    
    Speaking of motels outside of Disney, any suggestions for a motel
    in the Kennedy Space Center vicinity (on the beach - close to the
    beach)?  Again, it would be just for one night, but this time we
    would be willing to spend a little more to have access to the beach.
    
    Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated - 
    
    Thanks!
    
    --Katie

    While staying in "Disney area" last fall we stayed
    at the Davis bros. hotel on International Drive
    room was $40.00 and very nice. There are quite a
    few different hotels on International Drive that
    are pretty reasonable...Tim

    The MKC had a sheet in about a hotel called the Kissimmee Oaks Hotel
    4311 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway (US 192-10 miles east of Disney)
    It offers as special rate of $33.00 low season and $43 High season
    and has a Junior Olympic-size outdoor pool and kiddie pool. You
    need your DEC badge to get the discount. The phone number listed
    is (800) 327-9155  or (407)396-7100. I'll check it out in my AAA
    book if I remember.

    If you really want a basic room with a cheap rate and a pool, then
    consider the Motel 6 (US 192).  I believe that the rate is about
    $25.  There is also a Motel 6 in Coco Beach which isn't too far
    from the Kennedy Space Center.   
    
    Roger

   Sounds as though there are places to stay at very reasonable prices
    on US 192 and International Drive - Maybe we shouldn't even worry
    about making a reservation and just find something when we get there
    (although I will probably call the places mentioned).  The prices
    are better than I expected!
    
    I wonder if it's the same around Kennedy Space Center(?)  We would
    like to be in walking distance of the beach there, if possible.
    I've never been over that way, so I don't know what it's like (nice
    beaches?).
    
    Thanks for the input!
    

rep to < Note 95.4 by GEMVAX::WRIGHT >

>    I wonder if it's the same around Kennedy Space Center(?)  We would
>    like to be in walking distance of the beach there, if possible.
>    I've never been over that way, so I don't know what it's like (nice
>    beaches?).

    The East  coast/Kennedy Space center is only an hour away from Orlando,
    so unless you  plan  on  spending  several days on the coast why bother
    going thru the hassles  of  checking  out/in?    Cocoa beach just below
    Kennedy Space Center and Daytona are bothe nice beach areas.
    
    Claude    

    Title was  change  to  better reflect the topic of WDW area, as well as
    facilitate dir/title="" searches.
    
    Claude_your_friendly_moderator_103_days_and_counting

    
     <reply to 95.5>
    
     You're right - it would be easier; however, we are checking out
    of the Disney Inn on Friday morning, and our flight doesn't leave
    until Saturday evening.  We thought we would spend that day-and-
    -a-half (including Friday night, of course) over on the coast.
    
    Glad to hear that the beaches are nice - I've never heard much about
    that area before.
    
     --Katie

>   Speaking of motels outside of Disney, any suggestions for a motel
>   in the Kennedy Space Center vicinity (on the beach - close to the
>   beach)?  Again, it would be just for one night, but this time we
>   would be willing to spend a little more to have access to the beach.
    
    Well, there is a Holiday Inn in Titusville right across the river
    from the VAB (Vertical Assembly Building) of the KSC (Kennedy Space
    Center) on US 1, if that helps.  As for getting right on the beach,
    I have always driven from the greater Orlando area (as Claude
    suggested) so I am at a loss there.  If you do not plan to hit KSC
    and just want to do the beach thing, have you considered Daytona
    Beach?  Gobs of hotels in all price ranges most with direct beach
    access.
    
    FWIW (not much, I'll grant you),
    David.

    <RE: note 95.8>
    
    We are, actually, intending to take the tour of Kennedy Space Center,
    and we thought we might as well stay that night in that area - and
    I'm inferring that that area, much like the WDW area, has its share
    of places to stay with reasonable rates.  That's basically what
    I wanted to know  - unless someone knew of a place that they would
    *highly* recommend (that's always welcome information!).  With this
    in mind, I think we'll just "wing it" when we get there.
    
    I appreciate the info - Thanks!
    

    
    
       We pretty much stay at the Days Inn - West (1 mi. west of the
    main road, can't remember the route #, also known as Spacecoast Hwy
    I believe).  It has never cost us more than $45/night/couple and
    last year we even got free breakfast for two everyday excluding
    tax and gratuity.  Boy did that help the budget.  Its not bad,
    as your really just sleeping there and maybe using the pool, the
    other 20 hours your at WDW/Epcot, Seaworld, or in our case also
    visiting relatives in the area.
    
       I have also stayed at Orlando's Marriott World Center, it 
    really is a great hotel.  Its the kind of place you would go,
    just to go to.  You could spend all your time there, with pools,
    waterfalls, steel drum bands, golf, tennis, and assortment of
    restaurants and nightclubs.  
    
       We've seen so much of Orlando, we might just go there, stay
    there and relax next time, although MGM wasn't open then, and
    you know you just can't seem to not want to go to WDW/Epcot.
    
      The locals however prefer SeaWorld, Cypress Gardens you could
    basically keep.
    
                     Mark
    

    	We were just at WDW from the 30th of May through the 4th of June,
    and stayed at the Comfort Inn - LBV.
    
    	Overall, not bad for the price.  But they charge extra for
    everything!  For example, an extra cot in the room was $5.50 extra per
    night.  A bucket of ice was $.50.  We weren't there that much, so I
    didn't mind too much, since the bed was comfortable and kids enjoyed
    the pool.
    
    	One thing I did mind was that upon check-in, we were offered a free
    dinner if we went on some kind of tour.  I said no, and was then asked
    2 more times if I was sure I didn't want to take advantage of their
    offer.  I finally had to turn around and walk out.
    
    	No big deal, just something to be aware of, should anyone else be 
    going down in the future.
    

    
    
    It depends, of course, on your budget.  But if you want luxury and
    comfort on your vacation and want to be near Disney, then the only
    choice is the Marriott World Center.  The positive statements in
    earlier replies are understatements.  It beats any Disney hotel
    except the Grand Floridian which is probably equal.  My wife says
    it's either the MWC or the GF. Just depends on whether you want
    to pay the extra $50-100/night to be on the lagoon in the MK.
    
    You can literally just go to the Marriott and spend a week there
    with a day or two at Disney.  We love it.
    
    Regards, Jim
    

    RE: -1
    
        Could you supply some more info on this place.  Just reading
    about it makes me want to try the place.  Is it as booked up as
    any of the WDW hotels?  What are the costs per day, per week, etc.?
    Any package deals?  Do you have the phone number so that I could
    call them and get reservations?
    
    Thanks, any additional info would be greatly apprieciated.
    
    Tony 

    
    Phone is 407-239-4200
    
    I am a Marriott Marquis member so I get special privs like cheaper
    rates and better rooms and things like that. But, the rates vary
    depending on whether the conventions book it up. The rate one day
    could be over $200 a day and much less the next.  I would say that
    $150 a day will get you a good room.  And it's worth it.  The MWC
    has a game room, a fast food restaurant with free movies, a lobby
    area that you could sit in for an hour just enjoying it.  Glass
    elevators that give you a wonderful view.
    
    The hotel sits between a golf course and tennis courts so is you
    golf or play tennis, you are all set.  There are actually many pools.
    The main pool is the largest heated pool East of the Mississippi
    (they tell us). With a water slide, waterfalls and stuff. There
    are five or six hot tubbs scattered around. An indoor heated pool
    and exercise room. A huge sand play area next to the pool, a 25
    foot wader pool for tots, hundreds of lounge chairs sitting on multi
    levels overlooking the pool. Fish ponds with goldfish and lots of
    swans and ducks just walking around. A neat restaurant next to the
    pool area for lunch. 
    
    Rooms have cable with Disney channel and HBO.  
    
    If you like views, try and get a poolside view, it's best.
                                             
    This hotel for those not familiar with it, is AT the entrance to
    WDW on the opposite side of the highway from EPCOT entrance on 192.
    
    Just try it.
    
    Regards, Jim
    

    I would like some advice for a hotel outside WDW.
    
    I will be spending 6 day's at the Polynesian but will be in Orlando for
    two nights prior to my Polynesian reservation.  I would like something
    fairly inexpensive (or at least moderate) for these two days.  I will
    probably not be spending any time in WDW during those two days.
    
    I have some frequent flyer awards good for 1/2 off a two day stay at
    Hilton's or Hyatt's.
    
    There are three Hiltons:
    
    	Hilton Gateway - $70
    	Hilton Center - $85
    	Hilton @ WDW village $205  (no discount rooms currently available)
    
    There are two Hyatts.
    
    	Hyatt Orlando - $99
    	Hyatt Regency Cyprus Gardens - $190
    
    
    At all of the above (except the Hilton in WDW village),  I would only
    pay half of the above rates.
    
    Does anyone recommend any of the above?  Would you recommend any other
    hotels given the above prices?  Thanks.
    
    /Jim Pappas

reply to < Note 37.23 by RGB::JIM "Jim Pappas" >

I have stayed at the Hyatt Orlando and it is very nice.  But it is situated
right next to the entrance to WDW.  Depending on what you are planning to do,
you might not want to stay there.  It is pretty convenient to Sea World, and
also to Boardwalk and Baseball, but not to much else.  You might want to
consider something closer to Orlando.

Of course, it is very convenient to WDW.

--Jay

    We went to Disney 2 years ago and stayed at the Sheraton Lakeside
    Inn.  We were 5 minutes from Disney.  The hotel was nice.  The rooms
    were always cleaned, the pools were cleaned, and the people were
    friendly.  Two years ago we paid $60/night.  We went in July.  
    
    Can't wait to go again........possibly next year!!!!!
    
    Melissa

        RE:        <<< Note 37.23 by RGB::JIM "Jim Pappas" >>>

	Back in October 1986, a friend of mine and I did the same thing
	as what you are going to do; stay at a place outside of WDW for
	the first few days, and then spend over a week at the Polynesian
	Resort in WDW.  We stayed at the 1776 Inn (which is now a Best
	Western as was previously mentioned in this topic).  It is located
	on International Drive, so it was close to everything.  It was nice
	and comfortable enough for our purposes.  We just wanted a place
	to stay while doing non-Disney stuff (SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, and
	Cape Canaveral).  But what a shock it was to go from that place to
	the Polynesian.  It was the best vacation I've ever had!  We
	extended our vacation at the Polynesian by three days, and I can't
	wait until I go back there again.

	If you do decide to go through with it, then prepare yourself for
	a shock, but a positive shock.

							John T.

    Does anyone have any info on the Quality Inn Plaza on International
    Dr.  What's it like?  What's near it? etc..... Thanks.

    I stayed at the Quality Inn Plaza on my last trip in August. It
    was the first time we had stayed outside the park. It was clean 
    and the rooms reasonably sized (2 adults 2 children 5 and 10). It
    lacks some of the freebies of some of the better hotels. For
    instance it, costs $.75 for a bucket of ice from the machine.
    
    If I remember right the hotel consisted of 4 buildings of 5 stories
    each. It had 2 outdoor pools (not all rooms are conveniently located
    by the pool), a decent size lounge and a restaurant that serves
    buffet breakfast and dinners. It also had a small 8x15 video room
    and a SMALL gift shop.

    It is located less than a 1/2 mile north of the BEE-LINE EXPRESSWAY
    on International Drive which makes it very convenient to Route 4
    (which is the way to WDW) and Sea World. Within a 1 mile radius
    there are a number of places to eat. These range from fast food,UGH,
    (Burger King,McDonald's,Kentucky Fried Chicken), better (Barnaby's,
    Pizza Hut,Red Lobster and a Chinese place, forget the name just south 
    of the hotel) to King Henry's Feast (5 minutes on foot) and some of the
    better hotels own restaurants. (Note: Restaurants are rated to my own 
    opinions and not subject to debate)

    If I were to stay outside the park in Orlando proper and looking for
    a low cost place to stay I would stay there again. If you are going 
    on a package, most of which in this area offer either the Quality Inn 
    Plaza or the Days Inn Lakeside, I would take the Quality every time.

    Bill
    (Who prefers to stay inside the park)
                

    Thanks for the info....  I also prefer to stay inside but this deal
    came along from a relative that I coudn't pass on.... 8 days, 7
    nights, full size rental car(6 pass.), round trip air direct flight
    from Boston to Orlando for 2 adults and 3 children for less than
    $750.00.  Add the WDW passports, food, gifts, etc. and it should
    be less than $1,600.00 for an unexpected vacation.  We had earlier
    cancelled a WDW (inside) vacation this past August because of the
    wage freeze, increased state taxes, etc.  But this just seemed too
    good to pass up...  the only drawback was the relative will also
    be coming (ha! ha!).......
    
    Tony

    Can anyone tell me what the Wynfield on International Drive is like?
    
    I've seen it as we stayed at the Sheraton World opposite, but have no idea
    what it's like.  It looks rather small compared to some of the hotels in 
    Orlando.  Only, I probably have a chance to stay there...
    
    Thanks,
    
    Karen

    I had my friends back out on my and I ended up staying on 192 in
    Kissimmee at the Rodeway Inn Eastgate.  They were good.  I had a large
    room, 2 king size beds and color TV for $24.30 a night (AAA off season
    rate).  They had a $5.00 buffet breakfast with panckakes, grits, bacon,
    sausage, scrambled eggs, biscuits, and a good selection of fruit. 
    
    I did have a minor incident.  I had a cooler with 2 beers in it
    in the afternoon.  I came back that night and the 2 beers were gone.
    I check the  room and found nothing else missing, just the alcohol.
    I guess someone was thirsty.
    
    Even with that, I would still give the place a set of thumbs up.

      
    
                     QUALITY INN PLAZA
                                      
    Has anyone ever stayed at the Quality Inn Plaza on International
    Dr.?   My family and I ( 3 adults and 2 kids - 6 yrs. and 8yrs.)
    will be staying there for one week will touring Disney World.
    I just have general questions, such as room service, food, lounge
    pool, child care etc.  Any close attractions, restuarants, shopping
    malls, movies etc.?  We will be staying Thanksgiving week.  Any
    suggestions for a traditional turkey dinner on Thanksgiving Day?
    Oh yes, just one more question before I close, Wed. Nov. 22nd is
    my son's birthday (he's the 8 yr. old) we'd like to do something
    special in the form of a nice dinner (with birthday cake) and maybe
    a good movie that nite.......any ideas would be appreciated.  During
    the day Nov. 22nd we also have an "open" day on our tour plan. 
                                                         Debbie
    

    RE: .32
    
       We'll, my family and I, be staying there the week before
    you.  I've asked around and to date nothing "bad" has been said
    about the place.
                                               
    For something special for your child:  In '86 we went to WDW during
    my son's birthday.  We treated him to "Mickey's Polynesian Revue",
    the early version, with characters, of the "Polynesian Luau.  While
    in queue to enter the show I mentioned that it was his birthday
    at the ticket desk, they told me for a nominal amount(apx $3.00)
    they would have a B-cake at our table for him after the meal.  He
    surely enjoyed it.  The only down side was that no characters came
    over to wish him a happy B-day.
               
    

    Has any one stayed at the Hawaiian Village Inn on 192?  I just booked
    one night before we check in to Ft. Wilderness the next morning.

    Any opinions?  It seemed reasonable at $29.95/room/night.

    How about the Radisson Inn at Lake Buena Vista?
    
    Is the Radisson Inn a motel or hotel?
    
    Its $89 per night, but with a 50% off coupon from OnePass, its a pretty
    good deal if its like the Radisson's I usually stay in. Anyone stay
    there?

    We stayed at the Holiday Inn in Kissimmee for two nights.  This was
    not the East Gate (or whatever) mentioned in the Birnbaum book.  We
    were 14 miles from Epcot.  The room was smaller than the ones
    on the Disney property and nowhere near as nice but was acceptable.
    I missed the Disney atmosphere.  The drive was a pain but took less
    time than riding the monorail from the Contemporary to Epcot.  I
    don't think I'd stay this far from the property again but would
    consider one of the hotels nearer to the "entrance".

    	I stayed at the Wynfield Inn at my last stay in Orlando.  It
    was clean and neat.  The pool was also very clean.  It'a a place
    that I would recommend to friends, in fact I have.   For the money
    it's a very good value.  There is free oranges and coffe in the
    lobby every morning also.
    
    Tom

    Over Thanksgiving, we stayed at Orange Lakes Country Club in Kissimmee.
    It was around 1500 for 7 days, but we had discount golfing right there,
    free movies, an olympic sized (non-heated) pool, a smaller heated pool,
    two jacuzzis, miniature golf, ping pong, orgnanized games, etc.
    
    All with a 12 minute drive to the Magic Kingdom - a whole 8 miles, most
    of which is the WDW entrance - I highly recommend this place to others
    - we had a 1800 square foot condominium with kitchen, dining room,
    living room, two large master bedroom suites - all for less than the
    fees at one of the WDW hotels
    

    We will be doing the Premier Cruise Line/WDW vacation at the 
    end of April and as part of the "land" package we are booked at the
    Orlando Floridian Hotel (NOT the Grand Floridian inside WDW).
    
    I was wondering if anyone has stayed at the Orlando Floridian before
    and can you commment on the quality of accomodations. It will be
    my wife and I, and three elementary school-aged children. We're staying 
    for 7 nights. Questions I have are:
    
    	How close to WDW is it; i.e. time to travel to WDW entrance?
    
    	Is it a "nice" place?
    
    	What amenities does it have, especially for children?
    
    	Is it close to any other attractions and good restaurants?
    
    
    Anything you can offer would be very much appreciated!
    
    Thanks,
    
    Bob

    
    
    I will be going to Florida the last week in April.  Does anyone
    know of any other good hotels around Disney World that are inexpensive
    and are good for kids.  I would like some place with a pool and
    some recreation for children, who are 10 and 12.  
    
    Thanks in advance for your help.
    
    Carrie

    
    My wife's boss just got back from Florida, and spent a week at "The
    Swans", a new resort just outside of WDW. In a nutshell, her assesment
    was:
    
    "The place was SO UGLY ... and for $265 a night ... I couldn't believe
    it. The windows were ugly, the decore was ugly, and it wasn't anywhere
    near finished."
    
    (Just thought I'd stick this in here so all you RICH people out there
    who can afford $265 a night don't get screwed by going to The Swans.)
    
    ;^)
    
    

    Rep to <<< Note 37.41 by ZILPHA::EARLY "Actions speak louder than words." >>>

>    My wife's boss just got back from Florida, and spent a week at "The
>    Swans", a new resort just outside of WDW. In a nutshell, her assesment
>    was:

    Actually this is a Disney hotel on WDW property.  Check out note 13.60,
    the Swan sarted opening on Nov 20th, with the grand opening about now.
    This is a  problem with a lot of folks, since the Magic Kingdom was the
    first park to open,  some people call it WDW, when in fact WDW is a lot
    more just the MK.   Check  out any of the local travel agent adds, most
    of them say something like 7  night  Orlando  includes  WDW  and  Epcot
    Center etc.
           
>    "The place was SO UGLY ... and for $265 a night ... I couldn't believe
>    it. The windows were ugly, the decore was ugly, and it wasn't anywhere
>    near finished."

    I  agree,  not  the  best  looking  complex,  from  the  pictures,  The
    Swan/Dolphin are even outdone IMHO by the Carribean  Beach Resort for a
    heck of a lot less.
        
>    (Just thought I'd stick this in here so all you RICH people out there
>    who can afford $265 a night don't get screwed by going to The Swans.)
    
    I don't plan to beleive me, my next trip  will  be for the CBR if I fly
    or FW if I drive down with my pop-up.
    
    Claude

    The Swan is actually run by a non-Disney hotel chain!

    Does anyone have any info on Park Square Inn, Lake Buena Vista which
    opened in April and is adjacent to Walt Disney World Village?
    
    Thanks,
    Judy
    

A co-worker of mine stayed there and they thought it was very nice.
Walking distance to shops and restaurants also.

    Has anyone stayed at the Compri Hotel?  They had a reasonable rate and
    included a rental car and breakfast.  
    
    Thanks,
    
    Mary

Has anyone stayed at the Comfort Suites Hotel in Kissimee?? Any comments??

Kev.

    Hi there,
    
    This should be the right topic to ask up-to-date info on this years
    motel 6 accommodation prices,do any of you have info?
    
    My sister in law `Karin' has planned to go next may,she would like
    to have the information.
    
    Thanks for your help
    
    YO!
    Jan.

    RE.10
    
    Is there maybe someone who can inform please? :^)
    
    Jan.

    Rep to <<< Note 95.11 by JGO::KWIKKEL "The dance music library 1969-20.." >>>

>    Is there maybe someone who can inform please? :^)

    Jan,
    
    Not everyone  reads  Disney  every  day,  so maybe there is someone out
    there who may  have  the  info.    If  you can't wait maybe you or your
    sister could call Motel Six and get the info?
    
    Claude

    RE-1
    
    Thanks Claude for the reply but calling from Holland(Europe)
    has been proven a bit difficult.
    I'll await the info.
    
    Again,thanks..I hope not to have been to vexatious?
    
    Jan.

    Rep to <<< Note 95.13 by JGO::KWIKKEL "The dance music library 1969-20.." >>>

    Jan,
    
    Is your  sister  dealing with a travel agent or making the arrangements
    herself?
    
    If travel agents they should have the latest info.
    
    Claude

    Hello,
    
    I going to WDW on May 28 to Jun 4, but i have one litler question.
     How far is LAS PALMAS INN from WDW?, It's a good pleace for 7 days?
    
    Regards,
    
    Joe

    If I remember correctly, Las Palmas is just off International drive
    near the Kirkman Drive exit.  You're about 20 minutes away.  Can't say
    anything else about the place.
    
    Joel

    
    Wonderful!!,
                 The Las Palmas is an excellent place to stay. On our
    "tour" of Florida last November we voted it our favourite hotel
    and recommend this place to anyone planning on going to the Orlando
    area. It is bang opposite "Wet 'N Wild" so its easy to ask for
    directions if you get lost.
                 Apart from the friendly atmosphere, the rooms are very
    good along with the hearty breakfasts they serve up, and a good
    size pool - for those after Disney Dips!.
    
    Leigh
     

    Thought I'd toss this bit of info in here. On Saturday I went to a
    Disney Store and purchased my tickets for my upcoming trip. A woman
    came up to me while I was showing my kids the tix and asked where I had
    purchased them and for how much. 
    
    She was flabbergasted at the price. She had just returned from The
    World and, to make a long story short, had spent almost $400 for
    tickets for two adults and one child for (she didn't say but I gotta 
    assume it was) for 5 days. My 4 tix cost me $472. She bought them down
    there so she must have gotten zapped for a state and/or county tax and
    I don't think she had a MKC Card.
    
    To top it off she complained about the Quality Inn (the real purpose of
    this note) and said it was the pits. I kinda felt sorry for her at
    first but like someone once said, "You get what you paid for".
    
    I think she spent 4 nights at the Quality Inn and one night at the
    Contemporary....we're talkin' end of the Spectrum here.
    
    I guess the lesson to be learned here is to check on everything,
    hotels, ticket prices, etc. before leaping to Orlando.
    
    Mike_who_wants_110_days_to_go_by_fasssssssst
    
    

    Has anyone stayed at the Holiday Inn East???  That is where my daughter
    and I will be staying the 3 nights we are at WDW!
    
    There is something on HI in Kissemee, and all the HI I've been in have
    been nice, BUT.... there is always a chance of one being the pits!
    
    Thanks in advance!
    
    M-L

We are going down this June and staying 5 nights at King's Hotel on
route 192 E, and 5 nights at the CBR.

King's is listed in the Birnbaum Guide as a high quality, inexpensive motel.
Their rates are $50 or $60 ( I think that they have $40 rooms also) for a room 
and $70 for an efficiency. King's is located on Lake Cecile(sp?) and is about
5 miles from the Maingate.

You can also fish and boat on the lake.

I have never seen this place, so I was wondering if anyone has been there
or knows anything about it? 

thanks

Doug

    We stayed at one end of Orlando at a set of Condos named Florida
    Condominiums. These are available in one two or three bedroom formats.
    Ther are two pools in the complex, tennis, etc.
    The condos come equipped with everything from trash compactor,
    dishwasher, close washer and dryers, full kitchens, etc.
    
    Cost for one week at $640 US which includes a last day maid-service
    to clean up the place after you leave. All you need bring is food
    and clothes.
    
    Not a bad place (they need to pay a little more attention to detail),
    but real close to Orange Blossom Trail and I-4 (2 minutes).
    
    Just returned March 18th
    
    Terry
    

    A friend of mine has reservations at the Travelodge in Kissimmee
    in October. He has a bedroom with two double beds, a living room
    with a sleep sofa, and a complete kitchen for $48 per night! It
    is supposedly 1.5 miles from the main gate. I don't know if it has
    a pool, etc. but you can't beat the price!
    
    Linda
    

The rates at various hotels vary enormously per season. I called the
Travelodge mentioned in the previous reply and they want 
about $88/night for the same room in June.

I have also noticed that the prices in general must be higher than in
the past for many places. Two years ago in April we stayed at the Quality Inn
High Q for $40/night. For this June they want $75/night.
I assume that April school vacation and late June must both be high seasons.

Doug

    I just got back from 10 days in Orlando and after picking
    up many coupon books free in most stores, restaurants, etc the
    cheapest motels are
    	Days Inn $29/room (1 to 4 people) or $39/lodge (1 to 6 people)
    	plus $.49/gal gas (20 gal limit). Need the coupon though.
    	800-331-3954.
    
    	Park Inn, Rte 192, $30/king room (1 to 4 people) 800-437-PARK
    
        Travelodge, Rte 192, $28 (1 to 4 people) 407-846-4545
    
    plus others in the same approx range. Need the coupons, though.
    Book is available many places. I got 2.

Re: .51

Which Quality Inn?

I've stayed twice at the one on International Drive (#9000) and found
it more than good value for money. It was clean, quiet, nice rooms and
well located...

Gavin

    I just returned from my trip to Disney and I was at the Quality Inn on
    International Drive (#7600) though you can't compare it to any of the
    hotels within WDW it was O.K.  The rooms were clean, staff was polite,
    pools were nice, buffet was very good.  The rate was $27.00/$49.00.
    
    There is no room service and no planned activities for children, but
    to quote a famous phrase you get what you pay for.

    Just returned from Disney on March 13th after staying at the Quality
    Inn on International drive.  $27.00-$49.00/night.  Not bad.

In reply to .15.

I've just received the brochure from King's motel.
It looks very nice! It's also AAA approved. It looks
like it is more relaxed than most places.

It has a playground and a beautiful view of the lake.
It has just one pool but it appears to be clean and neat.
It's near the lake.

The rooms and efficiencies appear to be larger than most.
(104 rooms - 80 regular and 24 eff., 2 stories)

I'll let you know if all this is true in July.

Doug

    
    
    
    	I saw a mention earlier of someone stating choose Quality Inn over
    Days Inn/Lakeside......Any reports, good or bad on this Days Inn?
    
    	I'm sure it doesn't compare to being in the WORLD, but it should be
    decent enough to sleep in.............Got a rate for $50/night (May 27-31)
    	
    	If there are any better recomendations for hotels please!!
        Better to find out now than later!!
    
    
    --BERT

    
    	my previous note (37.55) is no longer a major question.
    
    	I sat reading this whole conference last night and by the time it
    was over I was itching for the reservations desk to open this morning
    to book a room at the CBR!  All these people must know something, and I
    think the ratio is like 200 to 2 in favor of staying within WDW.....
    
    	Still, if anyone knows about theiDays Inn/Lakeside it'd be good to 
    post since it hasn't been previously mentioned.
    
    53 Days to Mickey Land!!  (50 if you don't count tomorrow, day before
    departure, and day of departure!!!! I want it to get here so bad I'm
    redesigning the years calendar.......)

    Hi,
    
    I just booked a suite at the Day's Lodge East of Main Gate. 
    It's supposed to be about 2.5 miles from Disney.
    The crew will be there in November 1990 and I got a price
    of $53/night including tax.  This place sleeps 6- a bedroom
    with 2 doubles and a Murphy in the living room and it has a 
    fully applianced kitchen.  As I said in my introduction
    (note 158?), there are 6 of us, and most hotels will only
    allow 5 to a room.
    
    The best way to find about rooms and rates is by getting a 
    hold of a AAA travel book for Florida.  They quote prices by 
    the season. I chose to call only those hotels with 1-800 
    numbers because I'm cheap and I *love* to call 1-800 #'s.
    I got a 25% AAA discount on the room.  Good deal, 
    I hope. My parents are staying next door at the Days Inn.  
    Has anyone stayed at these properties?  If so, maybe you 
    could share your experiences with the place.

    223 days to go!
    Gary

    re .9
    
    >	My girlfriend and I stayed at the Maingate back in August
    >	of '86 the first week we were vacationing in Florida.
    > 
    > 	It's not a bad establishment, but it's not the best either.
    
    
    Any more opinions on the Radisson Maingate?  The prices are quite
    reasonable, but I am fussy about hotels.....!  I'd appreciate any more
    input.
    
    Thanks
    
    David

    FYI - The Hyatt Regency Orlando (just outside the park and mentioned in
    previous responses to this note) has a special going on for families. 
    I cllaed about rates for October and here's the deal:
    
    Hyatt Gold Passport Members (This is what they call their "Frequent
    Guest" program)  can get a rate of $99 per nite.  For families needing
    a second room, the second room rate is 50% off, or $49.50 per night. 
    So, the bottom line is 2 rooms for a total $148.50 per nite.
    
    This is less than (but close to) the Carribean Beach Resort rate of
    $85 per nite (or $170 for two rooms).
    
    To become a Hyatt Gold Passport member call Hyatt at (214) 401-3600.

    Anyone out there know anything about the Heritage Inn? How close is
    it to all the main attractions? What are the rooms like etc?
    
    Any help would be much appreciated!
    
    Lisa.
    

    If my memory serves me right, it's on International Drive not that
    far from Sea World and at the quiet end.
    
    You'll be pretty near to Disney and Universal without being in the
    thick of things in the busier part of International Drive.  It's 
    probably about half an hour's drive to Disney from there.
    
    Having said that, you'll have lots of restaurants right on your
    doorstep.  The "Village Inn" does great buttermilks and maple syrup
    for breakfast!  You'll also be near to the shops.
    
    Can't vouch for the quality of the Heritage Inn inside, but it looks
    pretty smart on the outside.
    
    Hope this helps,
    
    Karen
    (who'd rather be in Orlando than Reading :-))
    
    

    
    Does anyone have more information on the Quality Inn on International
    Drive?  Employee Services is using this hotel for their October Disney
    package.  Are these standard hotel rooms or are they complete with
    kitchenettes?  What are the grounds like; pool, tennis?  These
    will determine whether we will go or not (eating out all the time
    with the family can be expensive).
    
    Thanks in advance!
    
    				Cheryl
    

    
    I recently returned from "The most wonderous of places".....
    
    We stayed at the DAYS INN CENTRAL in Orlando for 1 night before our
    package at the POLY started. 
    
    IN MY OPINION, AND MY WIFE'S OPINION..... We would never stay there
    again. I would rather sleep in my car !!!! We were scheduled to stay
    there for another day after we left Disney but cancelled. I owe their
    Headquarters a letter of complaint and a DEMAND for my deposit back on
    the cancelled nite.
    
    By the way, The reservations were made through the 800 number and they
    needed 1 days fee for the deposit payed in advance.
    
     The place we originally wanted to stay...DAYS SUITE's was booked 
    according to the people at the 800 number. When we cancelled out of the 
    last night we drove over to the DAYS SUITES and found many, many open 
    rooms. In fact it was raining so hard that we tried 3 rooms on the ground 
    floor that were flooded before we got a second floor room.
    
    
    Pasco
    
    More details furnished upon mail request !
    

    Rep to <<< Note 37.61 by HPSTEK::PASCO "Mark 'PASCO' Pascarelli" >>>

    Pasco,
    
    My wife used  to work for the Holiday Inn Center of NH in Manchester as
    the reservationist that dealt  with HI's 800 number service, as well as
    corporate accounts etc..
    
    The way HI 800 number  and other's work (although DI may be different),
    is that the 800 numbers are alocated certain # of rooms that each hotel
    is normally unable to rent local, once thaey reach their alotment, they
    will tell you the hotel is full.   The  reason  being  is  that the 800
    number  is responsible for booking x number  of  rooms  for  any  given
    hotel  during  a given period (season etc.), and  the  local  hotel  is
    responsible for the rest.  The way it's supposed  to  work  is,  if the
    local hotel needs more room, they are supposed to tell  the  800 number
    that they need more rooms for a given day, and does the 800 number have
    any rooms available etc.  and visa versa.
    
    When  ever  I do bookings myself, and the 800 number tells me they  are
    booked  up,  I  always  asked  it that is just their alotment or is the
    hotel really booked.  If it's the allotment then I request they ask the
    hotel directly for a room or asked them for the given hotel tel #'s and
    call them direct.
    
    Claude

    	Anyone got the phone number of the Las Palmas Inn (on International
    Drive) please?
    
    		Thanks,
    			Steve.

    Las Palmas Inn
    6233 International Dr
    407-351-3900

    Has anyone had any experience, good ot bad, with the Ramada Resort
    Maingate??????????
    

    I agree with noter in 95.22, 
    
    Days Inn is CHEAP!!  I just booked a package deal with Delta and Days
    Inn East of Universal Studios (10 Miles from WDW).
    
    The price for the hotel package (includes rental car and discounts on
    attractions) for 6 nights/7 days = $163 pp.  We paid $381 pp for
    Air/Hotel & Car!  Not bad hey??  That brings the cost for the Hotel
    down to $28.00 per night per person.
    
    I'm going in October!  I can't wait.
    
    Melissa

    Has anyone out there stayed at the Days Inn East of Universal Studios?? 
    Can you give me a report good or bad??? I'll be going in October.
    
    Can't wait,
    
    Mel

    I am interested in finding out if anybody has had any experience in 
    staying at the Gateway Inn on Kirkman Road. How far away is this 
    from International drive. 
    
    Vasu 

    I stayed at the Gateway Inn as part of a Crimson Travel package
    back in 1984.  Kirkman Road intersects with International Drive.
    The hotel is adjacent to the 1776 Hotel.
    
    I'm not familiar with the layout of International Drive so I can only
    describe what was near the hotel.  There was some sort of restaurant
    next to it that served breakfast buffets but we opted to walk to the
    convenience store (7-11?) for breakfast.  There was also a Kentucky
    Fried Chicken place within walking distance.  I think Wet 'n' Wild is
    also within walking distance.
    
    If I remember correctly, the hotel consisted of a couple of two-story
    buildings connected by hallways.  Room doors opened into an interior
    hall.  The lobby looks like the pictures but is much smaller.  There
    was a small video arcade off of the lobby and a gift shop.  They
    offered some sort of service for storing valuables (probably a safe
    in the room), charged extra for watching HBO (or whatever they offered
    on tv) and worst of all charged for ice.
    
    As for the rooms, I'd recommend looking elsewhere for lodging.  They
    smelled very musty and the cooling system in ours wasn't adequate.
    Our bathroom wasn't very clean - there was mold in the shower/tub and
    the maids didn't clean the hair off of the drain which made me question
    the thoroughness of their cleaning process.  Our sheets weren't changed
    every day.  A couple of people in our tour group complained about
    cockroaches in their rooms.
    
    Are you going to be staying at the Gateway Inn?  If so, would it be
    possible for you to change your reservations?  My cousin stayed at
    the Quality Inn (the high Q, I believe) on International Drive and
    thought it was pretty nice.  It certainly sounded better than the
    Gateway Inn.  Some friends of mine stayed at the 1776 and thought it
    was ok but not great so I would think twice about that place too.

    >I am interested in finding out if anybody has had any experience in 
    >staying at the Gateway Inn on Kirkman Road. How far away is this 
    >from International drive. 
    
    Vasu,
    
    The Gatewat Inn is about 30 seconds walk from International Drive,
    Kirman Road is at right angles to International Drive and the Gateway
    Inn is right on the corner of Kirkman Road/International Drive.
    
    Hope this helps.
    
    Debbie

     COULD ANYONE PLEASE GIVE ME SOME INFORMATION ON "BEST WESTERN
    CATALINA"
    
    
                    KENNY

Could someone please give me some information on the Holiday Inn Maingate -
either East or West? I'm currently booked at the H.I.Maingate East but I can
change to Maingate West if I want. My 6 year old son and I are going for 
5 days/4 nights in early November. Both Holiday Inn hotels look quite nice from 
the brochure and are within my price range. There are others that are less 
expensive but are already sold out at that time, and others which cost more 
than I want to spend. So it's really just these two that I am interested in. 
(BTW, this is a last minute trip and I haven't bought the Birnbaum book yet but 
I will tomorrow!). We have purchased transfers as we plan to spend all our time
at WDW during this particular journey. This won't be our first or last trip to
Disneyworld!

	Thanks,
		Sue

We are looking at several suites hotels off the property (we need to 
house 4 adults & 4 kids).  Has anyone had any experience with the Quality 
Suites Maingate East?  It is located on West Irlo Bronson Highway.  Irlo
Bronson Highway is route 192 and used to be named Space Coast Highway.

Thanks for the help.

				-Marc

    I am planning a trip to Disneyworld and the travel agent suggested
    several hotels in the area of Disneyworld. Does anyone have any
    information on either the Radisson Maingate Hotal or the new Holiday
    Inn at Lake Buenta Vista. I would appreciate any information anyone may
    have on these hotels as far as accommodations and general info.
    
    Thanks very much,
    
    Dick

    I think it's the same place we stayed at over Christmas '89. It 
    was adequate, but not impressive. It's about the last accomodation 
    before the I4, so at that time of year, getting to Disney was no 
    problem.
    
    The hotel is roughly square, about 4 storeys high, built around an 
    open centre containing pool, jacuzzi, kiddies play area and bar. 
    Access to the rooms is by balconies running around the inside. 
    There is a restaurant and a shop for souvenirs, general 
    merchandise and tobacco.
    
    The suite itself consisted of Lounge with TV, 2 armchairs, couch 
    which folded down to double bed, dining table and 4 chairs. 
    Kitchen area containing fridge, dishwasher, microwave, sink, hob.
    Bedroom had TV, 2 queensized beds, chest of drawers, wardrobe with 
    safe, bedside lockers.
    
    Cutlery/Crockery has to be rented extra from downstairs shop, 
    which had limited opening hours. We arrived about 20:30, and 
    couldn't get anything until 09:00 next morning.
    
    The room seemed to be clean enough, but when we were packing up, I 
    checked under the couch for any of our stuff, and found a small 
    Disney toy which we definitely didn't buy, so it must have been 
    there from the previous occupancy (at least!).
    
    Just across the parking lot, on the 192, there is a garage and 
    small supermarket, which was OK for bread, milk and cereals.
    
    As I implied earlier, it was OK, but not spectacular, the staff 
    didn't seem to want to go the extra distance (but I'm spoiled by 
    Disney!). It might also get pretty noisy with full occupancy, the 
    balconies around the inside resonated to footsteps, and echoed to 
    shouting. We stayed there because we got a good value package for 
    flights, car rental and accomodation, and it was just somewhere to 
    sleep after all. 
    (Note! I don't know if this is standard, but use of the in-room 
    safe was extra. I kept my camera in it some days, but even when it 
    was empty, I carried the key with me, and got stung for $5 per 
    day, for every day the key was missing, implying the safe was in 
    use!)
    
    The decision is yours! If the rate is cheap enough, go for it.
    
    Mike in Warrington, UK.

    re.22 and .24
    
    Days Lodge is different than Days Inn.  
    
    Days Lodge is a suite type motel.  It has a separate bedroom down the
    hall, a small kitchen fully applianced, and a combination living room,
    dining area.  The living room has a pull out couch.  I stayed at the
    one is Kississmee (2-1/2 miles from WDW) the first time I went down.  I
    went with one other adult and two kids and it was perfect, because we
    could put the kids to bed and stay up and watch TV, play cards, etc.
    
    Days Inn is a basic (usually nice) motel room.  The last time we went
    we stayed at the Days Inn on International Drive and it was nice, but I
    sure missed the room in the suite.  That time we were 2 adults and one
    11 year old -- no privacy at all.
    
    I know this is late, but I don't usually read this file, and what the
    hay, better late than never.
    
    Phyllis
    
    

    re: .73
    
    The new Holiday Inn at Lake Buena Vista was not yet open when we were
    there in May. So I did not go in.  I can say, however, that it
    is almost immediately adjacent to the Disney Village area and it from
    the outside it was very nicely appointed.  If the price is lower than
    the Disney Village hotes, it would seem to be a good alternative to the 
    Disney Village hotels because of its proximity.  Very close!
    
    dennis

We stayed for one night at the Radisson before going on-property last
month.  It is fairly new, good quality rooms.  A good value for the
price paid.  Nice center courtyard with good-sized pool and jacuzzi.
Restaurant, lounge, a few bars.  Coupons on check-in for free drinks.
Parking is convenient.  Several misc. services in lobby.  

Hint on traffic:  You would have to turn Left from the access road
to go toward Disney main gate.  When traffic is heavy, turn RIGHT
then LEFT across street or U-turn to go back.  It's almost always
faster and it's much safer. 

Bill

    
    
    	I don't have a lot of time to scan through all of these
    	reply's so maybe someone can help.  A friend of mine is
    	going down to WDW for X-MAS and will be staying at a place
    	called the Fairlawn.  Is there anything in here about the
    	Fairlawn and if not, can someone describe this place ???
    
    	Thanx in advance for any help at all...
    
    	Tom

    
    
    
    	I just noticed that I put in the name of the wrong
    	hotel in my previous reply.  The name of the hotel
    	is called the  FAIRFIELD HOTEL, not the Fairlawn.
    
    	Can anyone out there still help me out ???
    	Thanx in advance...
    
    	Tom

    We are planning on going back to Disney this summer, and while staying
    on the property for the bulk of our visit, there will be a couple of
    nights that we will be staying OFF the property.
    
    For those of you who have stayed off the property, which of the hotels
    offer the "best deals" when comparing their regular rates, with their
    "preferred (or corporate) rates.  We noticed when traveling down
    last year that at some hotels/motels there would be only a small
    difference while others could be as much as $15.00 - $20.00 per
    night difference.
    
    Carla
    

    Our family is booked for the first week in November at the
    Quality Inn Plaza at 9000 Int.Drive.  The rate runs $29/night 
    + $1.50/night service charge (for a room safe?).  I understand that
    it is a relatively new (6 years) hotel and it is at the less
    congested end of 'the strip' (the Sea World end).  I also
    understand that the DEC trip going on this month is using this
    hotel; I'd be VERY interested to here how they felt about the
    place!  Also the hotel has a breakfast buffet ($5/adult - kids eat
    free) and a dinner buffet ($10/adult - again kids eat free).
    The $29/night rate is available via Quality Inn Central Reservations;
    I tried to book it directly with the hotel but they quoted me a
    higher rate???

    Carla,
    
    Are you spending the front end or the back end of your stay on the
    property? I'm assuming you'll be spending the back end on WDW property
    as favored by many who have "split" their stay.
    
    Mike

    Mike,
    
    We are spending the "back-end" on the property... as much as we
    enjoyed WDW last year, by the time we were "done Disney", we were
    DONE! and just wanted to get home... (although, while on the way
    home, we began to talk about when we could go back  :-)
    
    Carla
    

    We stayed at a Quality Inn (the same on as .79?) and it was only $25.
    per night plus the $1.50 surcharge.  I thought the surcharge was to
    cover local phone calls...?    The price was unbeatable.  At the time
    alot of other hotels were advertising that they would match anyother
    hotels price.  This is the time to go.

    I am going to WDW in two weeks and I need some advice on hotels near
    the airport from you experts.
    
    I will be travelling with my wife and two kids (16 and 12) arriving at
    Orlando late in the evening.
    
    I don't want to spend a lot of time after a long flight finding a hotel
    and I would welcome suggestions.  It would only be for one night and I
    am looking for something inexpensive which is easy to find from Orlando
    airport.
    
    Any offers?
    
    David
    

    Just a factual report on Rodeway Inn, International Drive... BEWARE!
    
    Stayed there for 2 weeks:
    
    	-No hot water until 2 days before leaving (it's was cold and
    	 sometimes lukewarm at best)
    	-Defective fire alarm system rang 3 times in the middle of 3
    	 different nights - fireman said it was a faulty system not
    	 someone pulling the alarms
    	-No ice in any of the ice machines at any time
    	-Bugs in the bathroom
    	-Air conditioner was stuck on high - control was broken and they
    	 could not fix (brrrr...)
    	-Window was stuck shut - could not open (other rooms opened)
    	-Came in at 10:00 one night to find my door wide open, the TV on,
    	 the beds stripped and the sheets lying in a puddle on the floor.
    	 Apparently the maids forgot to finish making my bed, either that
    	 or they fleed during another fire alarm drill...  Management
    	 told me it would take 1 1/2 hours to call in a maid to finish.  
    	 I asked for fresh sheets and made my bed without one word of
    	 apology from the management.
    	-$1.00 per night safe charge was not disclosed until check-out
    
    What a pleasant stay!!
    
    -Peg Werber

    re: .85

�   Stayed there for 2 weeks

    One question:  Why?

    With the number of properties in the area, and the slowness of the
    tourist economy, couldn't you find another place and move?  Why put up
    with all the problems you reported?

    If you were stuck there because it was part of a package tour, I would
    write a strong letter of complaint to the tour operator.

      >>If you were stuck there because it was part of a package tour, I
      >>would write a strong letter of complaint to the tour operator.
    
    Yep - did that and wrote one to the hotel headquarters.  They sent me
    back a letter saying they hoped they could gain my trust back by
    providing me with one free night there.  Hmpf!
    
    -Peg

    .84 I got back from Orlando last nite. I have a week of 
    timeshare.  However my wife went ahead bya couple days,
    and wanted something near the airport. She liked the Quality
    Inn. It had nice clean rooms, 2 double beds, pool etc and
    was 5 minutes from the airport. Best of all .... $35./nite.
    It's the one on McCoy Avenue. This roadd parallels the
    toll road, and has many car rentals and stores along it.

    I just got my "Discover American at 50% Discount" Card.  I found 19
    hotels/motels listed in the Kissimmee/Orlando area but don't know
    which to choose as I've never been to Florida before.  Can someone
    make a recommendation from the list?  Thanks.
    
    In Orlando					In Kissimmee
    ----------                                  ------------
    Ramada Inn South 				Fortune Place Resort
    8700 South Orange Blossom Trail             1475 Astro Lake Drive North
    
    Club Orlando Vacation Resort		Howard Johnson
    5305 San Antonio St.                        2323 Highway 192 East
    
    Compri Hotel - Lake Buena Vista             Park Inn Intl
    8688 Palm Parkway                           2039 East Irlo Bronson Hwy
    
    Gateway Inn                                 The Regency Inn
    7050 Kirkman Road                           8660 West Highway 192
    
    Gold Key Inn                   		Westgate Vacation Villas
    7100 South Orange Blossom Trail             2770 Old Lake Wilson Road
    
    Omni Intl Hotel        			Wynfield Inn-Main Gate East
    400 West Livingston St.                     5335 US 192
    
    Orlando Comfort Inn				Park Inn Intl
    8421 South Orange Blossom Trail		4960 West Irlo Bronson Hwy
    
    The Orlando Heritage Inn
    9861 Intl Drive
    
    Park Inn Intl
    736 Lee Road
    
    Radisson Plaza Hotel
    60 South Ivanhoe Blvd at 1-4
    
    Wynfield Inn - Westwood
    6263 Westwood Blvd
    
    
                      

    .88 Thanks for your help - I'll give the Quality Inn a try.
    
    David

My travel agent suggested staying in Wilson World in Kissimmee.  The price is
$673 for double occupancy for 7 nights and includes a four day pass to DW and
a one day pass to Sea World.  Its rated at 3 diamonds.

Has anyone heard of this place or possibly stayed there?  I'd like some idea as
to what/how it is.

Thanks,
	Rob

    Be careful with those places on Orange Blossom Trail.  I don't remember
    exactly where on that street I tried to stay, but quickly gave it up
    when I discovered it was the only place on the street that didn't have
    the word "Nude" or "Topless" written on it.  
    
    I guess I should have been warned by the directions:
    
    	Turn left at the third hooker.
    
    tom

    We, a group of 4 adults and 1 kid, are planning our first visit to WDW
    in mid of July.  We just got a reservation from the Maple Leaf Motel at
    4647 West Irlo Bronson Mem. Hwy, Kissimmee.  We got a one bedroom
    apartment with full kitchen and living room, dining room for $55 (not
    including tax) per night.  It'd be appreciated if anyone out there know
    about this motel can give us some advices.
    
    Daniel

Anybody stayed at Ramada Inn Maingate West which is about 5 miles 
from WDW attractions ? 

(There are two other Ramada hotels in the vicinity, the Ramada Maingate Resort 
3 miles from WDW and Ramada Maingate 1/2 mile from WDW.)

Vasu 

    I have reservations for the NEW Holiday Inn in Lake Beuna Vista
    APR 18-22 for $69/nite and for the Travelodge in WDW Village for 
    $79/nite. Any suggestions or recommendations on these hotels or
    any other hotels would be appreciated.
    
    Thanks,
    
    Mike K. and girlfriend_who_is_anxiously_awaiting_for_APR-18.
    
    

    My sister is honeymooning in Orlando in August and is staying at the
    "Orlando Vacation resort".
    
    I would appreciate any info about it
    
    Thanks in advance
    
    Wendy
      x
    

  I'm just back from 2 weeks in Florida and am catching up with the notes file 
  hence the long gap between the previous note. I bet by now you've given up 
  hope of a reply.
  
  I stayed at the Orlando Vacation Resort in 1988. The first thing to say 
  about it is that it is nowhere near Orlando. It lies about 20 miles drive 
  from Orlando Airport on the south side of the Disney property. It is a 
  pretty average motel type place. It does however have a very pleasant 
  breakfast room and a good restaurant and bar. The swimming pool is adequate.
  
  It is very conveniently located for visiting Disney, far more so than 
  International Drive. Its main drawback is its location. There is nothing 
  else within walking distance of it and use of a car is essential. If you 
  like tennis I recall there were lots of courts.
  
  With use of a car you are quite handy for the attractions of nearby 
  Kissimmee along 192.
  
  If you have any particular questions call me on (7)851 2080.
  
  Robin from Warrington
  
  PS My trip report is one third complete. I'll try and finish it this 
  weekend. 
  
  

        For discount room rates in the Greater Orlando or Kissimmee
        area, contact the visitor bureaus in the area.  They offer
        discount coupons, discount cards etc, as well as a good
        listing of available hotels in the area.

        For more information, see note 179.21.
    

================================================================================
Note 37.99                    Hotels outside of WDW                     99 of 99
HAZEL::FLYNN                                         14 lines  10-MAR-1989 16:30
                            -< Marriott- thumbs up >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
    Yes, I have stayed twice at the Marriott World Center. It is
    a real large hotel. I have enjoyed staying by the pool area,
    which is off from the main hotel. The parking is closer to 
    your room and it's abit quieter. Enjoyed these quest rooms 
    as you dont' have elevator hassles.Alot of restaurants in there.
    We've enjoyed the Sunday breakfast buffet. About $ 10 a head, but
    really nice. In fact, we've stayed elsewhere, and have come back
    into the Marriott for the breakfast only. Very nice. Super
    convenient to Disney. And I enjoyed getting away from the Disney
    scene after a whole day, you get abit disneyed-out.
    
    I recommend the hotel.
    

    My daughter is going to Disney in August.  They are staying at the
    ENCLAVE on International Drive.  She'd like any kind of information on
    the hotel.  
    
    She will have a rental car, how close is hotel to anything else
    and any kind of question you can think of she will want an answer too.  
    
    Can anyone help?
    
    Thanks
    

    That's gotta be a new hotel because there is no info on it in my 1990
    AAA Florida Tour Book. But if you need any info on the any of the 20
    Days Inn hotels in Kissimme-Orlando-Lake Buena Vista I'm your source.
    
    Mike
    

    I'm not sure what the deal is with the Enclave Suites either.  In '89
    some DECcies from the UK sent me mail saying they were staying there,
    but I couldn't find a listing in the Orlando area phone book.  Perhaps
    they only book package tours?

    Apparently it is located on (or near) I-Drive, very close to
    Wet'n'Wild.

    I'm looking for a bed and breakfast in the Orlando/Kissimmee area?  
    Any information would be appreciated.  Thanks.  This would be for
    November.
    
    Janet Cardillo

    Last night I was in a bookstore perusing through Disney books and found
    a number of an organization that puts out booklets of discount hotel
    packages and distributes them all around the Kissimmee area.  They also
    gave the address and phone number for those of us who needed to get
    ahold of them before hand (for a $2) charge.  Does anyone know what
    organization I'm talking about?  I lost the address (already).
    
    Thanks.
    
    jc

    I just found out the answer to my own question so I'll post it here for
    any one else.  It's called Exit Information Guide and the address is
    3014 N.E. 21st Way, Gainesville, FL  32609  (904-371-3948)
    
    You send $2 for postage and handling along with your name, address,
    when you're traveling and if you're flying or driving (they have
    coupons for other states as well).  You can ask for RUSH delivery.
    
    

    I have a land package brochure in front of me with an ad in it for
    the Enclave Suites. As follows:
    
    Enclave uites
    New in Orlando: ultra-modern, deluxe studios and 2 bedroom suites,
    sleeping up to 6 persons. Each unit has a fully equipped kitchen,
    dining area and living room area. Maid service includes doing the 
    dishes. Minuites from Walt Disney World, Epcot, Sea World, Wet'n 
    Wild and other major attractions.
    
    .lake front location
    .2 large outdoor swimming pools
    .indoor pool
    .children's wading pools
    .sauna, steamroom and jacuzzis
    .tennis court
    .children's playground
    .family restaurant
    .game room
    
    Doesn't sound too bad!
    

    Am curious as to your opinion of the Maple Leaf. Was it a good place
    for children? Was there a pool? All the usual questions.
    

    I just got back from Orlando and I picked up a brochure on the Enclave. 
    Let me know if you would like it and I'll mail it to you.
    
    Phyllis
    

Comments/ suggestions please!

My family has been looking at brochures of holidays in Orlando for 
1992, and we've narrowed our choice down to one of the following, all 
of which sound great:

1)  Grosvenor resort at WDW village;

2)  Villas Kissimmee

3)  Villas at Buenaventura Lake.

Coming from the UK, we intend to stay for 2 weeks, so we will not be 
spending all our time at WDW. 

Price-wise they all work out very similar. 

Advice/ information on relative merits of villas vs hotels, or actual 
knowledge of the villas themselves, would be greatly appreciated!

.......Gordon

    Gordon,
    
    You may find the villas to be more relaxing than a hotel. YOu won't
    find the hustle and bustle at a villa that you would at a hotel and
    they may provide you with the "quiet time" you may need here and there
    after spending a few full days in Orlando.
    
    I'm not familiar enough with the ones you mentioned but in general a
    villa is usually more "off the beaten path" than a hotel.
    
    Mike

Unless the prices have changed recently, I think you'll find the
Grosvenor Resort isn't much cheaper than the Carribean Beach or Port
Orleans Resorts.
Personally, I'd take the Carribean Beach or Port Orleans, unless you
really want to be in a multistory hotel with sitdown restaurants, or
five minutes closer to the center of Orlando.  I stayed at the
Grosvenor right after it changed management (I think it was something
Dutch something), and while it was perfectly acceptable (and much
cheaper than the Disney resorts that were available at the time), it
wasn't anything great.

  Gary

        We spent 3 nights on International Drive during our last trip,
        and was our first time spending any time at all in that area.
        International Drive itself seems to have 2 sections which have
        a very different feel.  Sand Lake Road is perpendicular to
        International Drive and separates the 2 areas.

        The section south of Sand Lake Rd down to about the convention
        center (near SeaWorld) is called "International Plaza".  This
        section is pretty nice.  The road is wide with 2 lanes in each
        direction and a wide center median with palm trees.  The
        buildings are set back and there are no billboards or tacky
        advertising.

        Traveling north past Sand Lake Road, International Drive gets
        narrower (still 4 lanes but no median) and the area is much
        less pleasant.  This section is much more congested, has
        several traffic lights, buildings are spaced close together
        with very little setback from the road.  Therefore, if booking
        a hotel on International Drive, I would recommend picking a
        hotel south of Sand Lake Rd in the "International Plaza"
        section.

        There is a new extension to International Drive which connects
        the existing section with WDW.  This extension currently has
        no development to speak of.  It makes I drive much more
        convenient to WDW since you no longer have to go out onto I4. 
        Still, the developed part of International Drive (north of
        SeaWorld) is quite a distance from WDW.  I would estimate
        about a 20 minute drive.

        We spent 3 nights at the Summerfield Suites Hotel on
        International Drive during our last trip.  The hotel is
        located in the "International Plaza" section of International
        Drive, directly across the street from the Mercado
        Mediterranean Shopping Village.  We stayed here during the
        "non-Disney" portion of our trip.

        The hotel was OK, about on par with a Embassy Suites Hotel. 
        We had a 2 bedroom suite which contained a living room/dining
        room/kitchen combo, 2 bedrooms, and 2 bathrooms.

        The kitchen was fully equipped with sink, stove, refrigerator,
        dishwasher, disposal, and microwave.   They also had pots,
        pans, coffee maker, dishes, silverware etc. The maid service
        included loading and starting the dishwasher, and they had a
        complimentary grocery shopping service.  You could leave a
        list of what you wanted them to buy, and they would go to the
        local supermarket, do your shopping, put the stuff in the
        refrigerator, and charge your room for the amount of
        groceries.  There was no extra charge for this service.

        Each of the bedrooms had a television and private bath.  Our
        room had a king sized bed and the kids room had a queen bed
        and twin bed.  Each bedroom had a telephone with its own
        telephone number.  The TV in our room had a pay-per-view movie
        box, but the kid's room did not.

        The living room had a sleep-sofa, TV, VCR, and a 2-line
        telephone (one for each of the bedrooms).  The TVs all had
        cable including the Disney Channel.

        There is a convenience store downstairs in the lobby which
        also rents videotapes.  They have a restaurant area which
        serves complimentary breakfast each morning.

        We stayed here because we got it very cheap under a promotion
        (about $45/night).  The suite itself was quite nice, better
        than the actual rooms of the WDW resorts we have seen.  I am
        not too sure what the regular price is, but I know it is a lot
        more than we paid.  Still, we were not too crazy about staying
        on International Drive and I doubt that we will go out of our
        way to stay out there again.  For us, we would rather spend
        the extra money for a regular room at the Caribbean Beach
        Resort or Port Orleans.  We think the overall experience and
        convenience of staying within WDW is worth it.  When we need
        more space (ex: when my M-I-L vacations with us), then we rent
        a condo closer to WDW.

    Was there ever an opinion posted on King's Motel. It's still in the
    AAA book but would like first hand opinion.
    

    Only 49 days to WDW! 
    
    My question has to do with travel to and from WDW.
    
    If I have a choice of staying 3 miles away from the WDW entrance for
    $72/night (and 3 tv's) versus 7.25 miles away for $60/night (and one tv),
    are those 4.25 miles 5 or 50 minutes of commute time from WDW? 
    
    Both places are pretty much right along 192 (near 535 and Dyer
    respectively), and are for a 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo.
    
    Is there a "rush hour" on 192 in a.m.? afternoon return is not important
    
    Thanks for any information
    
    Tim 

    If you are going in mid November I wouldn't worry too much about
    traffic.  We were their over labour Day and the parks and surrounding
    streets were almost empty (relatively speaking).  If you are bring
    kids go for the 3 tv's.

    Still interested in opinions of the Maple Leaf Apartments?????
    

I am interested in Maple Leaf info.

    
    Here's some info about the Sheraton Orlando North.
    
    I'm English and booked my holiday through a travel agent here in the
    UK.
    
    The Sheraton Orlando North is situated about 25 miles north of Orlando
    close to Altamore Springs and is located close to the I-4 interstate.
    The Hotel itself was 'okay I suppose' - I can't remember if it was a
    four or five star, but it had most of the 'basics' - bars, restaurants,
    a swimming pool, shops.
    
    The main disadvantage is it's so far from WDW and even International
    drive - it was about a 100 mile round trip to and from WDW and most
    days this meant fighting our way through rush hour traffic - heavy, but
    not really slowing you down too much - is it possible to go much slower
    than 55 MPH ? :-), but seriously, there was a plentiful supply of
    traffic police on the interstate so the 55 MPH limit was the maximum
    you could do.
    
    I'd recommend against staying at this hotel if you are only in Orlando
    for Disney and the other attractions.
    
        
    Paul

    
    	Has anyone heard/stayed at the World Resort of Orlando?
    
    	I looked through the hotel/resort notes and didn't see anything
    on this place....it is a timeshare switch we did to go to disney
    I also checked the timeshare notes file and didn't see anything on
    this one.
    
    
    				Thanks,

Hi,
   Looking for input regarding Residence Inn off rte 192. Fodor's guide rates
it the best suites hotel in that area. Particularly interested in how it
compares with Enclave Suites off International Drive. The party is four
adults and a 18 Month old. Would like to comparisions between the two regarding
kitchen/sleeping/privacy. Also interested in comparisions between the two
regarding convenient access to disney attractions.
Not much keen on pool, restaurant , sauna etc.
We are going to visit Disney/Florida for the first time in mid November.

PS:- Invaluable Information in this notesfile for Disney visit planning. 

Thanks in advance
Suresh

    Greetings!
    
    This note is about the Marriot - World Center Hotel
    
    This Hotel is very convenient to Walt Disney World... You can get to
    Epcot, MGM and the Magic Kingdom in just a few minutes ( I think it
    was about five...
    
    We stayed in a room overlooking the pools. They have the largest pool
    east of the Mississippi... At night we watched the Disney fireworks
    from our balcony... (you can see both the EPCOT and Pleasure Island
    fireworks.)
    
    This was one of the best hotels I've ever stayed in... They have a 
    breakfast buffet with universal costumed characters... (Fred
    FLinstone, etc.)
    
    This hotel is not on the "economy" end of the line. Rate was about 
    $180. If you want to go first class it is hard to beat...
    
    By the way... I have stayed at the Polynesian before, they both have
    the makings of a GREAT vacation...
    
    Can't wait to go back to Disney again!
    
    dennis g.
    

    Dennis,
    
    I agree 100%, The Marriott Orlando World is an excellent hotel.  We
    stay there for three FREE nights (thanks to Marriott points) in August.
    We also overlooked the pool and got to see the fireworks every night
    from our balcony.  A nice touch to sit on the balcony, Frozen
    Strawberry Dacquiri in one hand, the gorgeous pool below us and the
    fireworks in the distance.  We saw Epcots, MK and MGM's from ours and
    could hear Pleasure Islands.  My son loved the pool, like you said
    its the largest east of the Mississippi.  It was also rated the
    third best pool int he U.S.  I also highly recommended this place,
    and I'm another person who usually only stays on Disney property.
    The ride is 5 minutes tops, and they do have buses if you don't want
    to drive, but it is pricey.  
    
    Pat
    

    Hi,
      looking for info re - cost,phone number and address on the Enclave
    Suites and Maple leaf.
    
    ps which is closer to WDW.
    
    Tom.  

    I don't have information on the Enclave but do have it for
    the Maple Leaf.
    
    Maple Leaf Motel
    4647 West Hwy, (U.S. 192)
    Kissimmee, Florida 34746
    (407)396-0300
    
    Rates are $39 per room per night for high season
    and $24 for low season.
    
    They have rooms, some efficiencies, and 1 apartment.
    The apartment is $10 more.
    
    Cable, heated pool, 2 long double beds, phones and discounts.
    
    They are supposed to be 3 miles east of Walt Disney World.
    Restaurant, gifts, groceries and gass acrossed the street.
    This is from a brochure that I received. They also have a 
    laundry facility.
    
    ***I believe that those rates were for double occupancy, and there
    is a $3.00 charge per extra person.
    
    Also have car rental and a shuttle bus. (correction from above
    should read gas across the street)
    
    

    I`am looking for any info on the Sheraton Lakeside Inn(kissimmee)
    I have a vacation magic club membership card offering discounts (got
    this with the MKC package. 

    re:-.1
    
    I just returned from WDW last week, and I just wanted to make the
    recommendation  to NOT use the MKC discount for the Days Suites that
    comes with that package.  I felt it was one of the worst places I have
    stayed in a while.
    
    Since I'm at DECUS at the moment, I'll be visiting Disneyland
    tonight...back with my report in about a week of both the visits.
    
    -Jay
    

    I second that !!!  I wrote a very pointed note to days suites about
    their place.  We moved down the street to the Residence Inn and loved
    it.  When we checked out they gave us a card good for 20% at any
    Residence Inn good for one year.  Not bad.
    
    The rate was slightly more but worth every cent.
    

    
    Hi does anyone have good or bad reports on any of these Suites
    cost would help to.
    
    Ramada Maingate
    
    Ramada Maingate East
    
    Rodeway Inn/Hawaiian Court
    
    Tom.

Any opinion on the EconoLodges on 192, esp. the Econo Lodge Maingate Central
(near the Park Inn and Park Plantation Inn)?  We're looking for a cheap
place to stay the night we drive up (as per the suggestion in 22.98).

   Gary

  We are planning a trip to WDW this spring. We're traveling
  with 2 children, ages 5 and 8. We definitley want some kind
  of kitchen facilities (at least a refrigerator).

  We're thinking of the following:

	Holiday Inn - Lake Buena Vista
	Sonesta Villas
	Guest Quarters in Disney Village

  Anyone with information on any of these, we'd appreciate
  seeing your response. Also, any additional suggestions would
  be appreciated.

  We need the info ASAP, since we have to finalize our travel
  plans soon.

  thanks

  don , patty, jeff & chris.

    We stayed at the Sonesta Villas in summer '89, before we had had 
    any experience of staying on-site at Disney. It seemed great at 
    the time, and even in hindsight, it still seems good. Cleanliness 
    and service are approaching Disney standard, accomodation was 
    spacious and the 'kitchenette' was adequate - good sized fridge, 
    oven and hob. No microwave that I can remember! The only negatives 
    are that if you are at the extreme ends of the complex it is a 
    trek to get to the main buildings where all the facilities (Pools, 
    Restaurant, etc.) are located, and some comments from other guests 
    that it was relatively pricey (We booked it as part of a package, 
    so can't isolate the cost for comparison).
    
    Another possibility could be the Quality Suites on I192. Very 
    close to Disney, adequate but not outstanding quality of rooms, 
    service and facilities. It does have a good kitchen area with 
    fridge, microwave, cooker etc, and two queens in the bedroom. 
    Again, we booked it as part of a package, but the whole package 
    (Flights, accomodation and two weeks car rental) was cheaper than 
    booking individual flights! If all you need is a fridge, somewhere 
    to prepare breakfast and sleep, then check it out.
    
    There is a little more detail in the '89 Trip Reports.
    
    Mike B.

	I just made my reservation at the Radisson Lake Buena Vista just
	outside the entrance to the WDW Village.  Digital has a negotiated
	rate of 20% off the preferred corporate rates at all Radissons.
	
	This translated to $52 per night for a single occupancy room.
	The place sounds good from the AAA Guide Description.  I will
	report on the place in my trip report when I return.


	15 days and counting.

	Bill

re: .129
        
>   Another possibility could be the Quality Suites on I192. Very 
>   close to Disney, adequate but not outstanding quality of rooms, 
>   service and facilities. It does have a good kitchen area with 
>   fridge, microwave, cooker etc, and two queens in the bedroom. 
    
    	This is where my family stayed about three weeks ago (I know I
    owe a trip report).  In addition to what was listed, they have a
    "Murphy" (pull-down) bed in the living room area, and are only a
    five-minute drive to MGM & MK
    
    	My folks (who are members of AARP) got an additional savings for
    booking a month in advance.  I'd stay there again.  With some of my
    business travels with DEC I have stayed in places a lot less nice for a
    lot more money.
    
    tom

    Has anyone stayed at the Holiday Inn Maingate West , I`ve got booked 
    up for 5 people at $70 a night. Is this a good price and a good HOTEL.
    
    

If that's the property on Reedy Creek Parkway, it's a new (last two years)
property and from the road it looks good.  The price is good for any
comparable property in that area.  In my experience, the room quality is
roughly the same at most maingate area properties.  What varies are the
common facilities:  eateries, pool, etc.

Call the desk and ask what the common facilities are.

Bill

    Rep to <<< Note 37.132 by ETGSYS::TBOOKER >>>

>    Has anyone stayed at the Holiday Inn Maingate West , I`ve got booked 
>    up for 5 people at $70 a night. Is this a good price and a good HOTEL.

    Do you mean  the  Holiday  Inn  Maingate  located  1  mile  w of Disney
    Mainfate on Us 192 (7300 W Irlo  Bronson  Mem.    Hwy/US192)?   if so I
    never stayed there, but did drive by it  last  time  down  (Elaine  was
    working for Holiday Inn at the time), as I  remember  it look like your
    typical Holiday Inn inside, outside had some nice landscaping.  
    
    From my '92 AAA tour book it's rated 3 Diamonds, has A/C, C/CATV,  free
    &  pay  movies,  coin  laundry,  3  pools  (2  htd),  2  wading  pools,
    whirlpools, lighted 3  tennis  courts,  playgrounds.  
    
    Current published rates are $89-129 depending on  season room, so yes I
    believe your getting a decent deal.  The  hotel  is located 1 mile from
    the Disney Main Gate on US 192, which means  about a 5 mile trip before
    you hit the tool plaza for MK.
    

    If you mean Holiday Inn Maingate West #2 located 1/2 mile further west,
    (7601 Black Lake Rd.) then I can't tell you on  this  one, but based on
    the Tour book it's also rated 3 diamonds and has the  same listed above
    except  no  whirlpools and only 1 htd pool/wading pool.  and rates  are
    listed as $65-130.
    
    Claude

    Hello. Does anybody have information of the services, etc for the 
    
    Rodeway Inn Convention Center Hotel at Hawaiian Court, near Sea World?
    
    I made reservation from April 6 to the 14. $29 NIGHT.
    
    I`m just looking for a clean room to stay the night with my wife and my
    
    kid. 
    
   Thanks,
    
   Heriberto

    My husband stayed here in November of 1990 while attending a
    convention.  He had a two room suite with a kitchenette for about
    $35.00 a night.  He reports that while there was nothing spectacular
    about the place, it was clean, with reasonably large rooms, and 
    extremely convenient to I-4 (the road that leads to the World).
    Based on the map of the property he brought back, it would seem
    that out of about 250 rooms, about 50 are of the larger, suite-type
    variety.  It has a pool, hot tub, and lounge as well as the typical
    vending machines and coin-op washers and dryers.  According to the
    information on the back of the map, it is 5 and 1/2 miles from WDW.
    I assume that means to the off ramps on I-4, not the gates of the park.
    My husband recalls that it took about 10 or 15 minutes to reach Pleasure
    Island while he was there.  In case you need them, the following phone
    numbers were listed:
    	(407) 351-5100   (800) 826-4847   FAX: (407) 352-7188
    
    Any other questions, just ask or send me mail.
    
    Ellen

    Someone asked about the Park Inn ... I stayed there last year for 5
    days (a "free" vacation just for looking at a condo I knew I wouldn't
    buy!) ... the outside is very nice; great pool area, etc. but the rooms
    have alot to be desired.  When my friend and I entered our room, we
    just lauughed.  The bedspreads were so nubby that it hurt to sit on
    them!  But since this was a place to sleep, change, and bathe and
    nothing else (no resort fantasies here!) we actually became fond of the
    place.  (The beds, underneath the terrible bedspreads, were
    comfortable.)  Only thing is that the maid didn't change the bedding
    every day, as I'm accustomed to.  Towels, yes, but not sheets.  I'm
    assuming this is the Park Inn in Kissimmee.  Anyway, I wouldn't stay
    there again unless I had to.
    
    In the past, when we've gone on a planned and paid-for vacation, we've
    stayed either at the Viscount (now called something else) at Lake
    Buenoa Vista, part of the vacation plan chain of hotels, and it was
    excellent except for the year that the New Jersey Drum and Bugle Corps
    were there and I never saw a worst example of teens out of control with
    absolutely no supervision.  But the place was gorgeous and roomy.  On
    the other occasions that we didn't do the Vacation Package complete
    with passes/meals, we stayed at the Holiday Inn Maingate East and had a
    wonderful time there.  The rooms are clean and (by now familiar!) roomy
    and there are two pools.  The Mason Jar restaurant on the premises is
    great on buffets; it's especially good in the morning where the
    wait-people are sensitive to families wanting to grab breakfast and get
    to the parks as soon as possible.  It's cheap ($5.95 for adults; $2.95 
    for kids) and has everything.  They also have a buffet at night or a
    regular menu.  Part of their buffet option is a pasta buffet which kids
    seem to really like.  Again, moderately priced for the amount of food
    you get.
    
    This year I'm trading my timeshare week at North Conway for the Orlando
    Resort World timeshare resort in Kissimmee and we're driving down so
    this should be the most reasonable vacation yet!
    
    57 days and counting!
    
    Leslie
    

    thanks for the info .134 
    it is the one just 1 mile from disney, looking forward to it but not
    the fight from Scotland.
     

    I need some urgent information on the Colony Plaza Hotel which is I
    believe on West Highway 50???
    
    What is this place like?
    
    How far from the attractions?
    
    Is it recommended?
    
    Please help if you can.
    
    Thanks and regards,
    Tom.
    

I don't have my guidebook with me, but I know the area.  West Highway 50
is also Colonial Drive, in the City of Orlando.  It's about a 30 minute
drive to the World, less to Seaworld/Universal area.  It's a bit of a pain
to get in and out due to congested traffic in the morning and late afternoon.

Colonial drive has kind of gone downhill lately; Orlando plans to tear it
up and try to rebuild portions of the road and buildings to fix it up.

If you have other choices, look at the other areas (International Drive,
Lake Buena Vista, US192).  There should be comparable deals.

Bill

    Re.170
    
    Thanks for the prompt reply Bill. I have renegotiated with my travel
    agent and have booked Delta Orlando Resort (on or just off
    International Drive). I hope this is a better choice. Does anyone know
    it?
    
    
    Tom.
    
    

           Anybody stayed at the Ramada Parkway?  What's it like?
           
           Steve    

I am in the process of confirming reservations for a 7night stay in Orlando. The
package includes 7 nights at the Holiday Inn East Maingate Hotel, 5 day passes 
for four people including all Parks, Air Fare, and a car for $2150. This sounds 
like a good price, but I am not sure. In addition, could anyone comment on the 
Holiday Inn which I would be staying at?

My reservations are for May 12th through the 19th.

Any feedback would be appreciated.

Mike

    My brother is leaving in two weeks for Disneyworld, staying at
    the Holiday Inn Lake Buena Vista. Anyone stayed there before?
    Supposedly they have queen sized beds, refrigerators, microwaves and
    coffee makers in the room. He's interested also in the children's
    activities that they supposedly have. (Wish we didn't have to
    cancel our plans!) Any information would be appreciated.
    

    We had some friends stay at the Holiday Inn LBV last year and raved
    about it, especially the children's programs.

    There was a special check-in line for the kids where they got their own
    stuff like coloring books etc. while their parents checked in.  The
    kids meals were free with the purchase of an adult meal, and they were
    served in a separate supervised dining room.

    At the time they also offered free baby sitting in a play room, if you
    were leaving the property they loaned (rented?) you a beeper.  Our
    friends said they evening they used it the kids did an art project and
    watched a movie.  The grownups went back to their room and slept.

    I don't know if they still offer all these amenities, but if I weren't
    such a bigot about staying in a WDW hotel I would definitely check this
    place out.

    has anyone stayed at the Delta Orlando? 
    Pat
    

    	My brother and I are planning on going to WDW in July and as he is
    a college student and hasn't got a lot to spend we're looking for the
    cheapest hotel we can find that meets the following criteria:
    
    	1- Pool
    	2- No cockroaches ;^)
    	3- As close as possible to WDW
    
    	That's about the only requirements we have.  Does anyone have any
    suggestions?  I have the MKC coupon for $59 at Days Inn but I want to
    see if there are any better rates around.
    
    	Thanks
    	Tom

    
    Re - .178
    
       A couple years back I stayed at the Comfort Inn off of 535. It's
      about one set of lights from I5 and right next to the entrance for
      Disney's hotel's and the Disney Village Market Place. If memory
      serves me correctly it was about $35 bucks a night. There is a pool
      and full service resturant.
    
    George

    	O.K., anyone ever hear of Gala Vista?  It's on 192 about 2 miles
    east of WDW.  The rate (I have the coupon book you get with the MKC
    card) from 2/15 to 9/8/92 is only $34.95 a night, and they have a pool!
    
    
    Tom

    	Hi again.....I guess noone has heard of the Gala Vista....I don't
    know if this is good news or bad news ;^)
    
    Tom

    Yes, I stayed their for one night a couple of years ago. We thought the
    rooms smelled very damp and were not happy with the beds. Much perfer
    quality suites at $50 a day.

    Hi,
      I will be going to WDW in june for the first time, and I wanted to 
      find out if the hotels outside the parks run any shuttles 
      to and from any of the parks?  I will be staying about 20 miles away 
      from WDW and wanted to avoid driving since I hear that WDW is crowded 
      around June-July.  Any help would be greatly appreciated.  Thansk
    

    
    most have some shuttle service.  when you make reservations ask the
    agent.  Or visit a travel agent and read their hotel book.
    
    gog
    

    	You will have to check with the individual hotel.  Many do run
    shuttle services but you should also check on the times that they run,
    they may not fit your needs.  There is also bus service from many
    locations in Orlando and Kissimee.
    
    Tom

    This is for a friend.
    
    Does anyone know of a place to stay that has a little kitchenette,
    inside or outside of Disney (Florida). There will be three teens and
    two adults.  I suggested a villa, but.... someone may know of something
    else.
    
    Believe it or not, they want to go next week!
    
    Loraine
    Luner::doiron
    223-3606

    Fort Wilderness

    There are a lot of "suite" type places in the WDW area.  Examples
    include Mariotte Residence Inn, Embassy Suites, Summerfield Suites,
    Homewood suites, etc.  Also Day's Inn has some suites which I think are
    called Day's Lodge.
    
    In any case, all of these places have kitchens and 1 or more bedrooms. 
    Another option is to rent a condo or house.  See note 177 for pointers.

>>    There are a lot of "suite" type places in the WDW area.  Examples
>>    include Mariotte Residence Inn, Embassy Suites, Summerfield Suites,
>>    Homewood suites, etc.  Also Day's Inn has some suites which I think are
>>    called Day's Lodge.
    
    Actually,  it's called Days Suites.  My family stayed there earlier
    this year.  Master bedroom, kitchen (electric range and oven,
    refrigerator, microwave, plates and flatware $1/day extra), living room
    with a Murphy bed.  I will probably be staying at them myself late this
    summer.
    
    tom

    The Holiday Inn Maingat East has a "mini-kichette" in each room.  That
    translates to a micowave and refrig.
    
    gog
    

    I would never stay again at the Days Suites!  I would spend the few
    extra dollars and stay at the Residence in down the road outside WDW.

    re. to >>                 <<< Note 37.191 by AKOCOA::HEACOCK >>>
>>                        -< Never again at Days Suites >-

>>    I would never stay again at the Days Suites!  I would spend the few
>>    extra dollars and stay at the Residence in down the road outside WDW.

    Yeah, but why?  As I said in my title, it was better than most places
    DEC makes me stay on the road (and I'm on the road a LOT).
    
    tom

RE:-.1  You've got to be kidding me!

I spend a ton of time on the road...use to be a lot for DEC but now it is some
for DEC and tons for a sport that I'm involved in.  This travel is not with 
my family and usually with other national team candidates that have little 
money.  Thus the criteria is ALWAYS price.  The Days suites has to be one of
the worst dumps that I have stayed ever (I can only remember one exception).

I found the rooms furnishings fine and the amount of room in the suite very
nice, but our suite was dirty.  If you walked around the place in socks
they better be dark (or in other words our kids white socks looked like 
they had just gone out playing in the parking lot). 

I did not feel that comfortable leaving anything of value in the room
(first they try and automatically make you pay for a room safe, then if you
don't want it they make you read and sign the huge liability declaration...and
then when you get to your room and find this dirty room with windows/sliding 
glass doors that have been obviously pryed open you know why...and possibly
wish you paid for the safe in the first place).

Next was the "rental" of kitchen items.  I've try to stay at "suite"
arrangements as much as possible and have seen some extra charge for items
(fairly rare however).  But what was terrible about this place was you
got basically settings for 4 people and minimal pans PERIOD for $1.00 (
actually I thought it was $3.00/day).  We have three children so it didn't
work out that great.  Next if you want a toaster...$3 or $5 more /day.  Coffee
maker another $3-$5 /day, but you couldn't get one because they don't have
that many,....

Although I have stayed at a number of Days Inns and other "suite hotels"
and found both of these to be fine.  I found this place NOT worth the 
"special discount price" and would either pay the few extra $$ up front for
another hotel.  

Just my opinion

-Jay

    I would like to thank Jay for putting in words with out the %%$#$@ that
    I would have when it came to reviewing my experience at Days Suites.
    
    I can speak for the Residence Inn.  It was very quiet, included a
    comp breakfast, all the dishes my family needed, microwave, toaster,
    etc.  They even had a basket of cookies, microwave popcorn, apples upon
    our arrival.  To top it off, they gave me a coupon good for one year
    for 15% off any Residence Inn.
    
    I think they were trying to keep my business, and it is working.

    re: .-1 and .-2
    
    What can I say,  I guess I was either luckier than you two when it came
    to Days Suites, or unluckier with the Residence Inn (To be fair, the
    only RI's I've been in have been in Columbus, OH, and Santa Clara, CA).
    
    But I still stick with my original comment (Which may say more about
    where my management puts me than the hotels themselves).  You haven't
    experienced a DUMP until you stay at the Navajo Nation Motor Inn in
    Window Rock, AZ.

    
    
    I have stayed at the World Center many times, and it is one of the
    best in the area.  The bus to the parks is very good.

    Has anyone stayed at the Goldstar Hotel in Kissimmee.  Using my
    entertainment club card I can get an efficiency for $33.00 and it has
    three diamonds from AAA.  Any personal experiences would be helpful.
    
    pep
    

Anyone familiar with "RESORT WORLD" in the Orlando area?  We are 
considering staying there in early March and are looking for any comments 
from anyone who has stayed there before.

Thanks!


Xposted in:	TIMESHARING
		FLORIDA
    

    Do you have any information as to it's location in Orlando? That may
    help.
    
    Mike

    re .-1 
    
    Address for Resort World:
    
    2794 North Poinciana Blvd
    Kissimmee, Florida
    

    Has anyone looked into any of the condo type resorts that are listed 
    throughout the many Orlando or Kissemmee/St. Cloud publications?
    
    Are they a ripoff or of value?
    
    One in question which seemed a fair value was called "Feels Like Home"
    resort.  Apx. 6-8 miles from WDW on RT192.  A 3 bedroom, 2 bath, fully
    applianced condo for only $89 a day. 
    
    Has anyone heard of this?
    
    Tony

    We are staying at the Embassy Suites in LBV.  Has anyone stayed
    there before?  There will be 3 of us.  We are going in March.

My family and I are going back this April for our second visit to WDW and our
travel agent has booked us into Westgate Vacation Villas.  I did a search through
the notesfile for westgate and only found a couple of entries.

Can anyone help us with...

how close is it really to WDW?
how nice (or not nice) is it?
will we be comfortable in the 2 bedroom units with 3 children?


thanks,
bl

    Info needed for the Radisson at LBV.  We are going down in April.
    
    It will just be 2 Adults.  I would like to know how often do the
    shuttles/bus come and are they right at the Radisson or at another
    hotel at LBV?  What does it look like?  That kind of information
    
    Thank you
    Della

    Della,
    
    Keep the following in mind. Shuttle busses from hotels outside the
    property will leave you off quite a distance from the front gates
    compared to WDW transportation buses. For TMK you are dropped off at
    the TTC (last I checked) which means you will do the monorail or the
    ferry to get to TMK.
    
    Mike

    My husband and I have reservations at the Quality Inn Maingate
    (Kissimee) for next month.  Anyone know anything about this hotel??
    
    Also, in Tampa, we're staying at the Travelodge Busch Gardens. 
    Comments?
    
    Thanks,
    
    Donna

    RE: -.203
    
    I stayed at Westgate in 1987 as a timeshare exchange.  It's located
    one mile from the access road to Disney.  The resort has a pool, a
    lake, a whirlpool and tennis.
    
    The two bedroom unit are very large.  there is a master bedroom, with
    a full bath and the second bedroom also has it's own bath.  There's a
    full kitchen, dining room, and a living room with a dinette area.
    There's also a washer and dryer in the units.  I think there are two
    double beds in the second bedroom, but I can't remember.  There is a
    sofa bed in the living room.
    
    I hope this helps.
    
    Carol

    I just found a friend of mine is going to be at WDW the same time my
    husband and I are going to be there.
    
    She can not remeber the name of the city that there condo is in can
    some one tell me where and how close Spas Resort World it to LBV?
    
    
    Della

    The Spas @ Resort World is in Kissimmee on Poincentia Blvd about three
    miles from the Disney gate on rt 192.
    
    Hope this helps.
    Paul

    Here's some info about the hotels in the Orlando area:
    
      - There are over 80,000 rooms in Orlando and greater Orlando.
      - Nightly rates range from $50 to over $200 (GF is obviously higher).
      - There are 21 hotels on the Disney property, only 12 owned by Disney
        itself (about 10,000 rooms).
      - Currently lowest rates on the property are $95/night.
      - The Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress abutts Disney property and offers
        shuttle to Disney @ $4.00/person.
      - If your budget is a primary concern of yours then you may want to 
        stay in the Kissimmee-St. Cloud area (U.S. 192).
      - When booking a hotel along U.S. 192 be aware that prices fluctuate
        quite a bit. the further SSE (towards Miami) you go the lower the
        rates.
      - The Sheraton Lakeside Inn provides free shuttles to Disney...others
        offer shuttles (to Disney and other attractions) for a nominal fee.
      - The Holiday Inn Main Gate East offers free child-care.
      
      Hope this info helps some people.
    
      Mike

    My family and I (4 adults, 1 child) are planning a visit to WDW over
    Thanksgiving and have reservations at the Vistana Resort in the
    International Drive area. We have reserved a villa with a
    "fully-equipped" kitchen.
    
    My question is how "fully-equipped" are these kitchens?  Has anyone
    stayed in one of the these units?  My experience with this type of
    setup in the past is not to expect much.  Last time there wasn't even a
    can opener, just one pot, one fork, and two spoons!
    
    Please don't say to call them -- I did this at the other place and was
    assured that the kitchen was equiped for "simple meals".
    
    Thanks for any help.
    
    Mary Jean

    I would appreciate any information on the Ramada Disney South Airport
    ( 8700 S. Orange Blossom Trail ). As part of the Ramada chain I would
    assume the hotel to be ok, I was curious about location, etc;.
    
    Thanks-
    
    Gary

    I will be going to Orlando May 6th to visit WDW.  I have three
    questions;
    
    1) We currently have reservations at the Days Inn at 7200 Int'l Drive.  
       I've read all the notes about good and bad Days Inn's but they all are 
       posted with "Days Inn Central", "Days Inn East", "Days Inn Lakeside"
       etc.  I do not know which of these I am staying at nor which section of
       Int'l Drive it is located.  Can anyone help? (BTW...We're paying
       $39/night)
    2) I just picked up my MKC package from my PSA and saw the Sheraton
       Lakeside discounted offer of $49/night.  Does anyone both the Days
       Inn @ 7200 Int'l Dr and the Sheraton Lakeside well enough to offer a
       comparison or recommendation between the two?
    3) What will the crowds be like over Mother's Day weekend at WDW?
    
			Thanks for any help,
    			    marty
    

    
    if you are mostly planning Disney I would stay on US 192..
    it's closer to the entrances.
    
    We like to stay West of I4 on US 192 at the Quality Inn....
    $32 a night for the first week in June, straightforward clean accomodations, 
    pool, etc.  Nothing Fancy, but then again we spend most of our time at WDW.
    There are other hotels down along this side as well that are a little
    closer to the disney entrance (the quaility is less than a five minute
    drive).
    
    We like to stay west of I4 on US 192 (also called Orange Blosson Trail)
    because there is a Disney entrance right off 192 on that side (west)of I4.
    Makes for a real convenient drive....there are also food joints
    like denny's, mc d's, and burger kings for fast food on
    that side.....drive east of I4 on US 192 and there are more
    sit down type restaurants.
    
    From my experience International Drive is MUCH more crowded than
    192, and farther away...not worth it if the only non disney
    attraction you expect to do is Universal.
    
    just my thoughts.....Bert
    
    
    

I was looking for a the Days Lodge last year and as we were lost I dropped into 
the nearest Days Inn for directions. The woman at the desk was really helpful,
gave me a map and said there are about 30 (or maybe it was 50) Days Inns in 
the area. The place we stayed at was adequate. It was close to the Bee-Line
and other major roads. The view and grounds were not good compared to
the disney hotels.

I avoid driving on International drive. As far as I can tell it's a a 
continuous traffic jam.

However, Wet'n'Wild, The character warehouse and Universal are close by.

It is definately worth staying in Disney World if you can. If you are only
doing Disney you could do without a rental car if you stay in Disney World.
The only thing I used the rental car for lst week was getting from/to the
Railroad station adn a trip to the character warehouse. Yes a trip report is
coming (I've got up to Tuesday at about 10:00 so far). Actually I may have
spent enoiugh in the character warehouse to save the cost of the rental car ;-).

    
    I'm leaving the U.K on the 28th of May for a three week vacation
    in Orlando. I'm staying at Days inn lakeside which I think is
    on Sand lake road just off of International drive. Anyone know
    anything about this place....

    re:-.1
    
    I've stayed there, only for one night, but found it inexpensive,
    comfortable and all around not bad.
    
    -Jay
    

We are planning on traveling to WDW in late August.

I noticed that there is a Days Inn Resort and a Days Inn Hotel near
Lake Buena Vista. Has anyone stayed at one of these.

We are trying to be close to the action but cannot afford to 
stay in the park.

Are there any other moderate Hotels in Lake Buena Vista that
anyone has stayed at?

thanks!

Doug

We're trying to find a hotel for our first night in Orlando.  We'll be getting
in late and leaving early, so frills are not necessary.  We're looking for 
something that is basic good service and clean rooms, but nothing fancy.  We
also need a room that sleeps five...

Has anyone ever tried the Quality Suites?  It's located on Canada Ave, one
block east of International Drive.  Any other suggestions or opinions are
welcome!

                                             Tracy

    
    try the ones on US192, they are closer than I drive..
    
    there's several down there on the west side: Ecocnolodge, Quality,
    Motel 8, etc.
    
    --bert

    
    Note 334.32 includes a strong recommendation for Homewood Suites.
    It is only one stop light (a right on red) and a mile or two from
    Disney's entrance.  The rooms are comfortable, with a living area,
    a bedroom, and a kitchen area (stovetop, microwave oven, refrigerator,
    sink, dishes included).  There is a free continental breakfast and four
    nights a week there is free popcorn, soda & beer.  I got a room rate
    of $69 per night, which I consider a bargain.  Two of the buildings
    are close enough to I-4 that I'd be concerned about highway noise; I'd
    ask for a building away from the highway.
    
    Sam

    My family (2 adults/3 children) stayed at Homewood Suites last summer
    for three nights.  We were going to WDW for 2 weeks (CBR) and we
    decided to go down three days early.  What prompted us to go was a
    time-share come-on that was offered to us.  We paid about $179 total
    for 3 nights at Homewood Suites and that incuded free tickets to
    Universal Studios plus free tickets to King Henry's Feast.  It was an
    inexpensive way to add a few days to our vacation.  The deal was
    offered by Marriott's Cypress Gardens Timeshare.   Of course, we had to
    go to the timeshare pitch, but that was quick (especially when I told
    them I had no intention of buying a timeshare).
    
    The place was not too bad.  As stated earlier, some of the units are
    close to I4.  Our unit was away from the highway and it was quiet. 
    We ate breakfast there every morning which is good for the budget
    (especially in my case with 3 children).
    
    You do not get the same atmosphere as being in WDW.  If you could
    afford the difference, I would definately recommend that you pay a
    little more for the cheapest rooms at CBR, PO, or DL.  I think you
    would enjoy WDW resorts more.
                                                                     

    
    Anybody got any information on the "Days Inn - East of Universal
    Studios".
    		What is it like?  good, average, etc.
    		What facilities does it have?
    		How far from WDW?
    		Is there a shuttle service to WDW.
    
    Thanks in advance.
    Vinnie.

    I think I stayed at the Day's Inn  near Universal Studios. It
    was clean, easy access to Universal (by car, about 1 mile) and not
    too far from the highway to get to DisneyWorld. Didn't require
    a shuttle service so I don't recall if they have one. 
    
    I'd rate it on the better than average side since it is newer, 
    cleaner. Nightly Off Season prices were cheap - 59$ per night in
    1992. Back then they had a free continental breakfast every morning.
    muffins, juice, toast, jam, coffee, tea, fruit.
    
    I'll see if I can remember to dig through my trip stuff and post
    an update.

FYI

The Fodor's Guide to WDW contains a good recommendation for the
DAYS INN LAKESIDE in Orlando.

It is also AAA rated 2 diamonds.

Doug

    
    Can any of you give me any information on any hotels in the Clearwater
    area. Particularly the Holiday Inn - Madeira Beach and the Days Inn -
    Marina Beach Resort.
    
    	I would like to know what they are like, the Holiday Inn I believe
    is situated on the beach, not sure about the Days Inn, what distance is
    it from beach.
    
    	Any other information appreciated.
    
    
    Thanks
    Marie.
    

    Looking for any input for "Westgate Villas" in Kissimee...
    
    I think I'm going to stay there at the end of October, but just was
    wondering if anyone could tell me the "condition/set up" of this place.
    I will be getting a 2 bedroom/2 bath villa.
    
    Appreciate any input
    
    MSBCS::COTE
    DTN 293-5230
    
    Kris

    Does anyone have any info good or bad about the HOJO INN MAINGATE.

    re: 227         Hojo Inn Maingate
    
    I believe it is on Rt. 192 E, next to Water Mania.  It used to be the
    Gold Key (or something similar) and before that an Econolodge.  If you
    are just looking for some place to sleep, then it should be fine.
    
    I stayed there when it was an Econolodge, and it was fine.  My
    brother-in-law stayed there when it was the Gold Key, about to become
    the Hojo's, and he didn't haave any big complaints (that I know of). 
    If you want someplace "nice", then this isn't it.  If you want
    someplace "functional, but reasonably comfortable", this should do.
    
    --Jay
    

     re: 227  - how much you payin', if you don't mind divulging?
    
    there are many 'functional, clean' motels on this strip relatively
    close to the gate (which is on the West side of I4 off of 192).
    If your paying more than $45 look around some more.....
    
    I haven't stayed at this particular one, but have stayed in other
    Econolodge's on US 192 that were just fine.
    
    --bert
    

    With the AAA discount it is $29.00 per night.  Reg price 49.00 for
    November, peak season is 79.00.  AAA discount gives 20.00 per night
    off.  Anyway, I guess I wasn't expecting people to say just ok cause
    AAA rates it a 3 Star place (does that mean anything these days???)
    and it has a heated pool, wading pool, whirlpool and playground.

    
    
    sounds like the price is right.
    
    personally we've liked to stay outside WDW on the last two trips to save
    money.....along US192 these are clean, nice hotels with good pools and 
    spa's and decently close the world..
    
    folks who say they are 'ok' are rating them against more resort type
    hotels (can you say moola?) including the WDW resorts where rooms
    are three times as much but there is a different atmosphere...and
    lot's of other stuff to the hotel besides just a pool, restuarant,
    and lobby.
    
    from what I can tell AAA rated 3 star is a decent clean hotel, nothing
    special like a resort......average I guess.  It's not the carribean
    beach resort, but I wouldn't worry about it either.
    
    --bert

     I stayed at the Main Gate HoJo's back in 1985. At the time it
    was clean, well maintained and a great bargain (we paid 17.95$ a
    night - off season in September). It has a pool if I remember 
    correctly.
    
    It's fine, no great amenities. AAA 3 stars sounds about right.
    

There are *** and there are ***.  Generally, whenever we travel we use the AAA 
guide book since the discounts can be substantial.  We have found that there is 
a large swing in "quality" amongst establishments with the same rating.  We 
have recognized that - in general - a *** for Hampton Inn is better than
*** for a Days Inn and that a *** Doubletree is far superior to the rest of the 
field.  Unfortunately, even among the chains there is diversity.  The Hampton 
Inn in Seatlle was one of the better "buys" we have enjoyed, the Hampton Inn in 
North Ft. Meyers was bland, at best.

The Doubletree at SF Airport (actually, a ways away) is the
bar_none_absolutely_best_buy_motel we have ever stayed in.  The Days Inn at
Miami Airport (again, a ways away) was the absolutely WORST motel buy we have
ever seen - and that includes the Holiday Inn in St. Louis that was the local
cat house.  And all of the above were ***. 
 
As a rule, we stay away from HoJO, Ramada, Econolodge, Holiday, Motel 6,8,etc 
since we are usually dissapointed in the overall quality for the price we pay.  
If you want cheap and clean, go with Red Roof or La Quinta.  In my 
seldom_very_humble opinion, the little more you pay for staying at the lower 
priced Disney properties is well worth it.

As Always, For What It's Worth.........

Dave

    
    Hi,
    
    I am going down to WDW in Oct. and we are booked for 4 nights at the
    Y & B Club.  After Disney we wanted to take in Universal and Kennedy
    Space Ctr/Coco Beach.  Anyone other there have a recommendation for the
    best place to stay that would allow us easy/quick access to both of
    these attractions?  I understand that KSC/Coco is about 45-60 minutes
    away from the area, is that correct?
    
    We are trying to decide whether we want to stay one night somewhere
    near Universal and the Second in Coco or whether it would be better to
    stay 2 nights at either one and "commute" between the two.  Any ideas,
    suggestions, past experiences.
    
    32 Days and Counting...
    
    Rich

We stayed at the Day Inn Lakeside for one night. We planned to stay there
for 9 nights because it got a good write-up in Fodor's guide. It is also
rated 2 diamonds by AAA.

The place is not kept up very good. All the buildings are engulfed
by parking lots. Our room was dirty and musty. The TV did not work 
very well.

The only nice thing was there area by the lake which had a mini-
wild-life refuge and Tiki Bar.

Doug

We stayed at the Ramada Inn International, 8300 Jamaican Way in
Orlando (new part of I-drive).

It was a very nice place.
Nice landscaping, clean, comfortable.

On Aug 26th we were robbed of $350.00 and a credit card.
I was at the pool with the kids and my wife was traveling
between our room and the in-house laundry room.

Apparently, we were being watched. Luckily, no one was hurt.

We figure that someone had a key or the door was left ajar.
The sheriff's deputy said that "it happens".

Doug

    
    I'm looking for a listing of hotels around WDW.  I have contacted the 
    Florida Tourism Bureau and they are sending me a catalog, but I was 
    looking for recommendations at the same time.
    
    The information I am interested in is: distance from WDW, cost, accom-
    modations, ammenities included.
    
    My family and I are traveling to WDW on Jan 19th and still have not\
    decided whether to stay on or off property.  If we can find a hotel 
    that is very convenient and inexpensive then I think we will stay off
    property.
    
    Any first hand information or recommendations would be appreciated.
    
    Alan

I read this in a magazine this weekend and thought some of you may be
interested:

"Adventurous families with limited vacation budgets will welcome the news
that colleges and universities across the country offer dormitory 
accommodations, usually in the summer and during school holidays, at amazingly 
low rates ($10 per person and up).  As a guest, you may have use of campus 
cultural and recreational facilities.  Many schools, such as Walt Disney World 
neighbor Warner Southern College in Lake Wales, Florida, are near vacation 
areas.  For a complete listing, check out Peterson's Directory of College 
Accommodations by Jay Norman ($9.95)"

[EOB]

    Hi! We're going to WDW on Saturday, 10/9 and just saw your request for
    information on Westgate Villas.  My husband and I and another couple
    stayed in Westgate about 3 years ago and we really enjoyed it. We had
    a 2 bdrm/2 bath villa and were impressed with it.  The master bedroom 
    had a king-size bed with a jacuzzi tub in the bedroom  (the only thing
    wrong with this was that the tub is literally IN the bedroom...not in
    the master bathroom.  The 2nd bedroom had 2 double beds and each
    bedroom had a color TV.  There is also a color TV in the living room.
    The kitchen is fully equipped & I vaguely remember a washer/dryer in 
    the kitchen area.  There is also a loft bedroom and a pull-out couch,
    so the unit can really accommodate 6-8 people comfortably.  
    
    The resort had a pool (which was being repainted and therefore unusable
    while we were there) and the resort is surrounded by orange &
    grapefruit groves.  We were told when we checked in that we could pick
    whatever we wanted and in each unit there is an juice machine.
    
    I remember we had to go to a sales pitch, but it was not overly high-
    pressure.  The management provided  a complimentary pool-side breakfast
    on 2 mornings (I think).
    
    We enjoyed our stay there, but because my husband & I are going alone,
    it was too expensive for the two of us this some.  We are staying at
    the Concord Resort Villas for $65/night for a 2 bdrm/2 bath villa!
    
    I think you'll enjoy it!
    
    

    
    
    Help...I'm looking for information on Homewood Suites, located 1.5
    miles from the main gate of WDW.  Has anyone stayed there, or know
    someone who has???????
    
    I was quoted a rate of $69.50/night for mid-January, which is an
    Entertainment Club Rate (50% off the 139.00 rate.)  It's a 1 bdrm
    suite with a full kitchen, compimentary continental breakfast, pool
    and a bunch of other amenities.
    
    Any comments about the place???
    
    Thanks,
    Alan

All Homewood Suites are alike.  Excellent rooms, with comfortable
furniture, separate sleeping area, combo kitchen/dining area, and 
living area.  Continental Breakfast is served in the common area
and is included in room rate.  I stay at Homewood when travelling
if it's available.

Bill

    Any info concerning Residence Inn. Am looking at a 2 bdrm suite
    for my family, 2 adults and 2 adult kids.  50th birthday party
    for my husband.  This was asked before in .118, but didn't see
    any answers.  
    
    Would like to know the usual type stuff.  Location, Quality,
    Satisfaction.  We have always stayed on the property, but
    decided on this because of price and with 4 adults we need
    the extra space.    
    
    Can't wait, we are going in Jan.  
    
    

    I've never stayed at the Residence Inns in Orlando, but as someone who
    will frequently be gone on business for a week (or more) at a time,
    Residence Inn is my favorite place to be put up.  The rooms are clean,
    and the full-sized kitchen has utensils, pots, etc.
    
    In fact, I'm on a business trip right now, and I'm bummed out the BOTH
    of the Sunnyvale Residence Inns were booked.
    
    tom

    My wife and I stayed at the Residence Inn just outside the Maingate
    last March.  It was fairly clean and comfortable and basic.  We did
    enjoy the pool and outdoor jacuzzi.  There is a restaurant in the Inn
    that we did not sample.  Fireworks and light shows from WDW are
    visible at night from the hotel.
    
    A pretty OK place to stay...good rates brought us in...we would return.
    

    Just an update on the Days Inn - East of Universal Studios, a friend of
    mine just back from two weeks in Florida stayed there the first week.
    The hotel did not live up to the standards given by the tour guide. The
    rooms were smutty and smelled of dampness, carpets dirty, toilet
    overflowed onto the floor, service was about a 4 on a scale of 1-10.
    A place to avoid the next time around. 
    
    2nd week was spent at the Days Inn - Madeira Beach. Big improvement and
    clean, good food and service. Would visit again.
    

 We are planning to go orlando from Nov 9 to Nov 16. We are 2 adults and
2 children. I am looking a hotel in Kissimme street. We will like to have a
room with kitchenette.

I am looking good and inexpensive hotel. Any info is greatly appreciated.

thanks in advance

    I've stayed a few times at Day's Suites Orlando (on Irlo Bronson Hwy).
    Each room has a back bedroom with two beds and TV, a kitchen area (dishes
    $1/day extra), and a living room with a convertible sofa and a Murphy
    (pull-down) bed.
    
    Not the best place I've ever stayed, but a lot better than several of
    the places my manager makes me stay these days.
    
    tom

     I've stayed in Residence Inns in various locations (not
     at WDW).  Very satisfied.

     All the ones I've stayed at have serve yourself
     breakfast.  Cereal, muffins, toast, bagels, juice,
     fruit and more.  And serve something at supper time
     also.  Like pizza, cheese and wine.  Except on
     weekends.  All included in room price.

     They'll even go to the market for you.  

     Recommended.

    I just booked a week package which includes 5 nights at the Enclave
    Suites on International Drive. Naturally my travel agent raves highly
    up, down and sideways about this motel - but she has never stayed there
    or even seen it! Has anyone stayed at this motel and may know if I
    will be happy there?

    Any info will be appreciated.

    Thanks,
    Paul

    We spent five nights at a new Day's Suites off Sand Lake Road (and
    International Drive).  It's a couple of miles from Universal.
    
    $59.00/night for two rooms (beds in the back, pullout couch in front), 
    microwave, large refrig', two TVs, full breakfast buffet every morning 
    and happy hour every day from 4:30-7:30.
    
    These rooms are AAA approved with updated security, computerized keys,
    and all rooms open into the courtyard.
    
    I'd recommend this place and will stay there again.
    

    This note made me think it would be nice to comment about where we
    stayed.  
    
    We surprised my husband with a 50th birthday present and went down
    for a week at the beginning of Jan.  Wish I was there now!
    
    We stayed at the Residence Inn by Mariott, not the high rise, but
    the condo looking ones near the high rise. Next door to the Vistana
    Four of us, two grown children and my husband and myself.
      
    
    Can't say enough good about it.  $70/night, two bedroom suite, two
    bathrooms, kitchen, l.r. and dining area.  About 10 min. drive to
    MK, Epcot.  I am sure that was a off season rate, but you could
    easily share this with two other paying adults.
    
    Still think on the property is the best. Maybe when the kids are out
    of college and there is extra $$$$$$.
    

    We are planning a trip to Disneyworld soon and this place sounds great.
    Do you have a phone number for the Day's Suites?
    

    re:-.1
    
    I know there is a difference between Days Inns and Days Suites (but
    they are basically the same company).
    
    I've stayed in a nice days inns away from WDW closer I think it was 
    on Sand Lake Rd. and had a terrible experience at a days suites near
    disney. One thing to keep in mind when calling is to know *exactly*
    which one you are calling a friend of mine in my recent trip was trying
    to get in touch with another friend and there are 27 (yes...27) Days
    Inns in the Orlando area!...
    
    -Jay
    

    I will be in Orlando from 28-Feb to 5-Mar, and am looking for somewhere
    to stay. The problem is that there are too many choices! Can you help
    me make up my mind? Number one on my lists of things to see while I am
    there is the Kennedy Space Center. WDW is second, but I plan to spend
    at least two days there. I am travelling alone, and will be arriving by
    train and leaving by plane. I plan to hire a car while I am there.
    
    I have been looking through the notes here and in the AAA book. My
    current 'shortlist' follows:
    
    LasPalmas Hotel
    Quality Inn Plaza
    Comfort Inn at LBV
    Sheraton Inn Lakeside
    Wynfield Inn Maingate
    
    The AAA give the Wynfield three diamonds compared to two for the
    others. Is it really better?
    
    Peter

    Peter,
    
    Right off the bat I'd eliminate Quality Inn. That's about as far as I
    can get you. I favor Comfort Inns myself.
    
    Mike

   I bought the Birnbaum (sp?) book yesterday, and am now thinking of
   staying on-site. It would cost more, but I could save some of it by not
   keeping the car for the whole week.
   
   Peter 

    I would NOT recommend the Comfort Inn at LBV.  Send mail if you are
    interested in more details.
    
    Val Verge

I was looking in vtx travel and found that Digital employees
can get the special rate of $69 per nite at the Hyatt
next to the WDW entrance. You have to book it through
Thomas Cook agency.

Doug

re: Note 37.245 by ROMA::JACKSON

I know this is too late for Peter, but I just got back from a week staying at
the Wynfield Inn Maingate and I can highly recomend it. This is an older motel
that has been recently renovated and is very nice. They have a heated outdoor
pool with a pool side bar that is open until 1 am. The Wynfield is on Rt. 192
about three miles from the main gate to WDW. It does not have its own restaurant
but the Black Eyed Pea in front of it gives a 10% discount to guests of the Inn.
There is also a Dunken Doughnut shop right next door.

The only down side to the place is the Go-Kart raceway next door. It was open
until about 1 am and could get quite noisy.
    
I got a Digital corporate rate of $45 per night for 5 nights. This was next to 
the lowest price I could find and was much closer to WDW than the lowest.

Paul.

Does anyone have any info on the Comfort Suites on route 192?
About 6 miles from Disney.

thanks,

Doug

FYI

I called AAA and they have a rate of $61.00 for the Comfort Suites in
Kissimee including a sit-down continental breakfast (not sure what that
means). (For 2 adults and 3 kids.)

The lady at AAA said that it is rated 3 diamonds and that it is
very nice. It is across from a mall and near 4 restaurants. According
to an ad I saw it is "new".

I called for a brochure.

Doug

    I will be arriving in Kissimee (I hope I've spelt that right!) on 25th
    March we are renting a villa for the majority of our holiday but need
    to stay in a motel/hotel for one night preferably near by can anyone
    recommend a reasonably hotel, a quick response from anyone would be
    great
    

We stayed at the Quality Inn Maingate in Kissimee for one night.
It was very nice ($39.00 in August).

Doug

    I just returned from two weeks and stayed at the Ramada Maingate. The
    cost was $40.00 a night, it's just down the road from Disney. It has
    a fairly nice place to eat and  at least two heated pools that
    I'm aware of. It is also not to far from the Old Town Mall on one side
    and Splended China on the other.
    The room was standard fair, two double beds etc, nice place to visit
    but I wouldn't wanna live there for long.
Disney was great, had 5 day super pass's, miss it already and am planning
    my next visit already.
    Rick...

    Sit down continental breakfast means they have a coffee shop type area
    in the lobby where you "enjoy" muffins, donuts, assorted pastry types,
    and maybe cold cereal, along with coffee, tea, milk, juice.  Some
    places have continental breakfasts they bring to your room, or you have
    to "grab and run".
    
    -sandy
    

Do we have a need?...

I have found it very inconvenient to obtain info, brochures, photos, etc.
about lodging in the Disney area without making several calls or writing 
letters. Of course this notes file is a great help.

The info is available but, not in one place. The AAA guide and the accomodation
booklets from the tourist bureaus help but they do not contain photos or
the other "neat" info you receive from a brochure.

(I called the tourist bureaus and asked if they had such a book, the
answer was no.)

I think that most people just take a gamble and hope that they picked
a place that suites their needs.

My question is:

Would a professionally published book with brochure-type info and
color photos be of interest to you? Would you be willing to buy
such a book at a bookstore?

This book would not rate the establishments; it would just present
the info that is available from each place, other than mention pre-existing
AAA, Mobil, and other ratings. But it would be all in one source.

Please answer to me directly via e-mail and I will post the results here
if the mod thinks it is OK to do so.

Thanks,

Doug

     This information was provided under VTX.  I have sent away for the
     info but have not received it yet.  The 800 number below will let you
     order the guide, make reservations at hotels or talk with an agent.
    
     Kissimmee St. Cloud Convention & Visitors' Bureau
     P.O. Box 422007, Kissimmee, FL 34742-2007, 800-432-0200 (in Florida),
     800-327-9159, contact Sunny Taylor:  A central Florida destination
     promotion agency representing 118 hotels/motels and 30 campgrounds
     outside of Walt Disney World main entrance & close to many Central
     Florida attractions.  Consumer information available.
                                                         

I called the number.

They said that the tour and travel/sales guide would be the book that I
want but it only availalbe for travel agents.

This is different than the regular tour guide that they send out.

I will try to get one through my agent.

At least it does exist.

Where in VTX is it listed?

Thanks,

Doug

    VTX Livewire
     1 - Corporate
    10 - U.S. and Greater Maynard Area
     5 - Discount Directory
    14 - Travel/Vacation

I checked with my travel agent. The tour and travel sales book is
indeed for travel agents only but she will let me look at it.
(I'll check it out post the info here.)

She said that it is not what I wanted because it only has selected photos
and info on what a particular hotel is trying to sell (ie it may just
cover conference rooms for a certain hotel, etc).

The guide mentioned on VTX is the general guide that I have received.
It has some good info but it lacks photos and details.

I also get the impression that the travel industry does not want
such a brochure-type book available to the general public; it
may hinder their marketing techniques. 

Doug

    
    I'm staying at the Las Palmas hotel on international drive in
    September, has anyone ever stayed there.
    
    Andy

    That's right across the street from Wet 'N Wild. It's 2 miles from 
    Universal Studios and about 12 miles from the WDW Property.
     
    

    I stayed at Days in which is just down the road last year, i was just
    wondering what the hotel Las Palmas was like.
    
    Andy

    2 Adults 2 kids
    Is it possible to get two room rooms, linked rooms or anything
    similar without going the whole hog of renting a villa etc. What sort
    of money would I be expecting to pay and can someone post a couple of
    phone numbers (non 0800)
    
    Thanks
    
    

    Guest suites normally have 2 rooms and can be reasonable. I believe
    near $60 sometimes. Do not know of specifics in Orlando, but
    take Guest Quarters, there are two rooms. Enter into living room
    with TV etc. and queen sleep sofa, then bathroom with bedroom after
    it with TV etc. Bathroom is between so it allows privacy for both.
    They work very well for adults with a couple of kids.
    
    You should normally be able to get one of these type accomadations
    outside WDW for less money than the cheapest single room in
    Disney.
    
    The only one I've ever been in is a Guest Quarters in Waltham, Mass.
    and it was really nice. Their normal room rate is around $100 night.
    But as I said I've heard of similar ones near WDW in the $60+ range.
    
    Travel agents should probably have listings ?
    
    					Harold 
    
    

    I read every reply to this note and I was hoping that someone could
    answer this question that from what I've seen has been asked numerous
    times in this note.  Has anyone stayed at the Holiday Inn Maingate
    East??  I've seen notes on the LBV one but not on this particular one.
    
    Thanks,
    
    Lisa

    Has anyone any information on the Hilton Inn at Gateway ? Such as
    distance from MK and other attractions..
    

    I stayed there early this year.  The Hilton Gateway is about 1 mile
    west from the main entrance to WDW, on route 192.  There are two very
    different buildings.  At the front of the property, on the south side
    of 192, is a newer structure that is typical of any Hilton and Tower.  
    Adjacent to the main structure are several rows of "motel-like" buildings 
    that are more typical of a Days Inn.  It is all THE HILTON.  Thus, if
    you stay in the main building (tower), their low rates are a bargain. 
    If you stay in the motel-like section, their rates are reasonable.  The
    rates are the same, so be sure to check!
    
    Cheers,
    Ken
    

We stayed there a few years ago (in the motel section).

The rooms were nice, no problems.
Better than Day's Inn IMHO.

It is just about a mile or so from the main gate, very convenient.

It has two pools.

Doug

    Thanks very much for the info. We (myself and fiancee) are going for
    the first time 11.06.94 for 7 days Orlando and 6 nights Shearton,
    Clearwater.
    
    What can we expect in the way of crowds and climate..?
    
    Any tips for eating (reasonable) and transport from the hotel, should
    we use the car or take local transport ?
    
    We hear a lot of bad press in the U.K about muggings and shootings, is
    that all hype and over reaction..?
    
    Conference is great first time I have used notes, great source of
    information.
    
    Thanks and regards 
    Simon

    Simon,
    	I've just returned from Florida (2 weeks ago) and thoroughly
    enjoyed it. I would suggest that you hire a car, if you are able to, it
    does offer more flexibility in when/where you can go. Also you can
    visit other places outside WDW (there are other places in Florida
    right?).
    
    As regards muggings and shootings, this is only bad press. Bad news
    sells papers. We had no trouble at all (my wife was concerned too!) and
    only heard a police car siren once in the 2 weeks we were there. Just
    take the same precautions you would when visiting London (but look
    left then right before crossing roads!).
    
    Our only problem was finding a decent map of the roads. The ones we used
    did not show the level of detail we have in the UK.
    
    - Trefor
    

    Has anyone stayed at the SLEEP INN MAINGATE hotel in 
    Orlando?  Can you tell me;
    
        - What's it like?
        - Convenient to Disney?
        - Close proximity to restaurants.
        - Swimming pool?
    
    Any info appreciated.  I'll be staying there for a few 
    days next week.
    

    	My wife & I will probably be flying into Orlando on Friday 23rd
    Sept and will need to find a hotel for the Friday & Saturday night
    before meeting up with my folks who've got a timeshare starting on the
    Sunday.
    
    	Does anyone have any recommendations as to where would be best to
    stay?  We'll have a car, have been over before and with luck should
    have get there & picked it up by 6-ish, so we're not especially looking
    for a next-to-the-airport hotel.

    
    
     If you don't want to stay in-side Disney. I would recommend "The Red
    Roof" on International drive. I have stayed there 2 times already and
    they offer "smoke free" room's if you care. Cost has been between
    $35.00 and $42.00 a night for a single KING bed, depending on the time
    of year. You can call 800-THE-ROOF for pricing and availability.
    
    Jeff

Hello,
      I'm looking for some information (as detailed as possible) on the
Hilton Inn Gateway. I'm currently planning our 1995 trip and the Hilton
looked/sounded good going by the brochure and also was reasonably priced.
    
We stayed at the Comfort Suites, Kissimmee in May 1994 and whilst it's good 
points were: room close to pool,shop and video-games room - continental 
breakfast excellent - location great for Disney/Universal/Shopping
    
The not so good points were the condition of the carpet in our room....
and the rooms general cleanliness. The carpet was extremely dirty. The rest of
the room was "just" OK. It felt kind of uncomfortable when we were in our room
Mind you, the state of our room didn't stop us having the BEST holiday we had
ever had in our lives - but it would have been nice if it been MUCH cleaner.
    
The information in this Notesfile has been invaluable to me. Keep it coming.
Thanks to everyone. Mike (Scopa), I printed off your trip report for my wife 
and two children to read.....no, not to read.... to study! Great report!
My heart wants to go back to Disneyworld in May 95 but my head and my wallet 
tell me that we can't go until September 95.

Looking forward to your replies.
                                Many thanks,
                                            Stevie.

We stayed at the Hilton Gateway a few years ago.

There is a 2 level motel type of structure attached to a multi-story
hotel.

If my memory serves me correctly....
We stayed in the motel type buildings at that time the rooms were
bigger than some and they were clean. They have two pools, one
claimed to me heated but didn't seem like it was in April.

It was decorated in a fla/tropical flare. They have a couple of
restaurants/bars, etc. It was nice but not outstanding; better than
a Days Inn by far.

I think that the multi-story building is nicer with more services but I
am not sure about that.
We had no problems there.

Doug

    I stayed there two weeks ago while on business in Orlando.  The
    high-rise building is typical of most Hiltons (very nice), and the
    two-story motel section is typical of a better motel.  Excellent value
    for the money.  My room (high-rise section, $65/night) had a 
    refrigerator (NOT a mini-bar), microwave, and wet bar.  It is located
    less than 5 minutes from the maingate, on Rt. 192.
    
    Cheers,
    Ken
    

I just got back from WDW and stayed for 2 nights at the Holiday Inn Sunspree.
My "highly discounted" rate was $80.  The room was larger than a typical hotel
room, with a very small four chair dinette and two queen beds.

A small area between the room and the bathroom serves as a mini-kitchen
with sink, under counter fridge (no room for any real freezer items, though)
and a microwave.  There were no dishes or utensils.

There is a nice pool and two whirlpools in the center courtyard.  The
"halls" are outside walkways facing the inside courtyard or parking lot.
Your room's window faces the walkway so you have to keep the shades drawn.

My opinion is that it's an average accomodation with the extra of a microwave
and a small fridge.  My price was too high -- I could get a similar room
without the fridge and microwave for a lot less.

Bill A.

    Has anyone stayed at the Travelodge or Courtyard by Marriott (formerly
    Howard Johnson) at WDW Village? 
    
    I was quoted a rate of $89 at the Travelodge which includes a buffet
    breakfast for four each morning and the room has 2 queen beds. The
    rate is $79/night without breakfast.
    
    At the Coutyard the cost is $79/night. I heard that this place was
    recently renovated when the Marriott took it over from HoJo.
    
    Any info or comments would be appreciated.
    
    Thanks
    John

We stayed at the Hotel Royal Plaza last July and we did walk thru the
Travelodge across the street. It seemed to be quite nice. The lobby
is not as large or grand as some of the hotels but who cares?
I did not see anything negative there.

We did not walk thru the Marriot. 

These hotels are close to WDW. You can easily walk to the
WDW shopping village. They are also only about a 1/2 mile or
less to the Crossrads shopping plaza. 

You do not get the same fringe benefits that you get if you stay 
at a "real" hotel. They gave us a booklet of bene's/coupons but they
were not anything that we used. The main benefit you get is the buses. 
We rode them to Pleasure Island; the driver was a grouch but we got 
there and back again.

I would stay at the Village Hotels rather than stay offsite.

Doug

BTW We got our rate of $79 per night plus we got 2 adult Seaworld
    tickets for free. We got this deal thru a place called CFI
    travel in Orlando. They are located near in the Mystery Fun 
    House building near Universal Sutdios. They manage or own some
    od these Hotels.

    Does anyone know of or has seen The Enterprise Maingate Hotel?
    We'll be staying there for one night before we go to WDW. We
    got a great rate of $28 (before taxes).  Apparently it is new
    but I am hoping it will be ok - even for a one night stay..
    It has a pool but doesn;t have a restaurant. 
    
    It is located on W. Vine St (US 192) in Kissimmee - approx 8 miles
    east from WDW. I found about it via Compuserve. The rates quoted
    were $44/night ... and we got it for $28 (non-smoking too)...we
    must have gotten a promotional rate.
    
    I'll give a review once I return.  2 weeks and counting!

I saw it last Fall...it seems like a reasonable economy motel.  It's
quite a ways out...sometimes traffic is quite heavy but if you avoid
rush hours it's not bad.

Bill A.

    I have just booked two weeks at the Howard J. Park Square Inn and 
    one week at the Seawake Inn at Clearwater.
    
    Has anyone stayed in any of these hotels and will the weather be
    good/resort be busy in April(not Easter).
    
    Thanks
    
    Gordon.

I hate to put a note in so soon after Gordon has done so, but I need an
answer soon for a friend who will be joining us at WDW.  She is coming
from California, and in order to be able to start the day early with us
when we arrive, she is considering flying out the day before.  

Is there a reasonably nice (not dangerous, reasonably comfortable), but not
too expensive motel/hotel near the Orlando International Airport that she 
can stay at?  

    Carol

    The Hilton is right at the airport (Terminal B). It may not meet the
    "not too expensive" criterial, however. I'm sure you pay for the
    convenience of being 'right there'. This is the only thing that is
    right on airport property. There are literally dozens of
    hotels/motels within a 5 mile radius of the airport. Pick a name and
    they probably have a building nearby.
    
    /se
    

Thanks.  :-)  I was all ready to give my friend the name of a hotel or
two, and when I finally reached her (last night) I found that she got
reservations for Friday night so that she'll be flying all night to get
to Orlando.  She'll arrive at 6:30 AM, so it looks like she won't need
a hotel.  :-}

Thanks for your help!

     Carol

    Condominium Report:  Concord Resport Condominiums, Kissimmee FL
    			 Royal Palm Bay complex
    
    We just returned from our WDW trip. We stayed at a property managed by
    "Concord Resort Condominiums". I had the impression when we made the
    reservations (as part of a Delta Dream Vacation) that Concord was the
    name of a condominium complex. Once we arrived, we became aware that it
    was just a management company that managed several condominium
    complexes.
    
    We stayed at a complex called Royal Palm Bay and I was not particulary
    happy with it and would not ever stay there again. It was a pretty
    nice place, but when I'm vacation I don't want to hassle with anything,
    and I had to hassle here. Any time I have to pick up a phone and tell
    somebody that something is broken, or that a service isn't being
    provided that I paid for I feel "hassled". This is not why we go on
    vacations.
    
    We arrived Thursday evening and planned to spend Friday at Universal
    Studios and Saturday by the pool, Sunday at Disney, then a day by the
    pool and so on. 
    
    We came back to our room Friday evening and headed for the pool to take
    an evening swim and were informed that the pool was closed. Apparently
    some little kid "floated a log" (get the picture?) in the pool during
    the day. Although closing the pool was certainly the right thing
    to do, they should have been able to shock the water with a heavy dose
    of chlorine Friday afternoon or evening and re-open it within 12 hours
    ... certainly by some time Saturday morning.
    
    The maintenance people were so slow to respond that the pool remained
    closed all day Saturday, and they did not seem sure that it would be
    open on Sunday either. We had to rearrange our plans a bit as a result,
    and ended up going to WDW on Saturday (which I wanted to avoid.) The
    kids were also really bummed about not being able to go swimming on
    Saturday.
    
    That night I went to make a couple of cocktails and there were no ice
    cubes in the refrigerator even though it had an automatic ice maker.
    Looked to me like it was just turned off, so I turned it on. About an
    two hours later, water was dripping out of the refrigerator. Water had
    gone into the ice making unit, never froze and was just leaking into
    the ice cube tray which had overflowed all over inside the freezer. I
    had to call maintenance and spent about a half hour mopping up the
    mess. My guess is that this unit hadn't been rented in a while and that
    the refrigerator just got turned on prior to our arrival. The ice maker
    started working a couple of days later.
    
    Then we discovered (to our surprise) that the rental fee did not
    include complete maid service (do dishes, straighten up, vacuum, etc.).
    It included only a daily exchange of clean towels and they would make
    the beds. We were never told this in advance, and I think it is
    something we should have been made aware of. Even at that, they didn't
    show up twice to make the beds. We came home pretty late one day and a
    couple of us wanted to take a shower and we had no clean towels. More
    calls to the front desk and more hassles.
    
    When we arrived there were little packets of automatic dishwasher soap
    under the sink. When I've stayed at places like this before, the maids
    have always repleneshed these every day. We asked the maid for some one
    morning and she said they didn't carry it with them ... we had to call
    the office. We called the office and were told that we had to supply
    that ourselves. I was pretty surprised by this, but shrugged it off and
    ran out to a local store and bought some. It cost me time from my
    vacation that I shouldn't have had to spend shopping. This could have
    been avoided if they told us this up front.
    
    Next day, we asked for more toilet paper. The maids didn't carry that 
    either. Call the office. "No, we don't supply that you have to buy it
    yourself." I never heard of such a thing. Another trip to the store and
    more time spent shopping vs. vacationing. Doing something that I don't
    think I should have had to think about.
    
    Then our air conditioner died while we were out one day and didn't work
    again until late the following day (fortunately it cooled off that day so
    we weren't too uncomfortable without it). 
    
    Our last day was also going to be spent by the pool. I don't know what
    these clowns did to the pool, but the water was green and you literally
    could not see the bottom of the pool, not even on the shallow end. I've
    never seen a pool look like that except early in the season before it
    gets opened up. It looked disgusting. My kids swam in it anyway because
    we couldn't convince them not to and haven't come down with any fatal
    diseases, but none of the adults wanted to go in.  
    
    Too many hassles for me. If you rent from Concord, or go on a "Delta
    Dream Vacation" you may want to ask what complex you'll be staying at
    and you should certainly ask what is included. 
    
    When I told my travel agent about the experience, she sounded shocked
    to learn that certain things were not included. Apparently she has been
    booking thru Concord for a while, has never had any problems, and was
    never told that full maid service wasn't included in the price. Maybe
    it was just the particular complex, but I don't think so. I didn't get
    the impression these people knew much about being in the property
    management business.
    
    
    

    I am booked to stay at the Howard Johnson Park Square and also
    at the Seawake Inn (Clearwater).
    
    Has anyone stayed at any of these hotels?
    
    Thanks,
    
    Gordon.

    re: my previous note (37.291)....
    
    	Well the price was too good to be true... the actual
    name of the "hotel" is the Enterprise Motel... was in need of 
    repair and the place had an old smell.  Needless to say, we
    got another room closer to WDW at the Wynfield Inn for $49 
    (we could have gotten a better rate if I had made prior reservations).
    This is a very nice hotel with a decent pool away from the highway.
    
    What I had read about the Enterprise was that it was a recently
    remodelled modern hotel.  I do not recommend it.
    
    Also I would not recommend the Days Inn Lakeside. This was a 2star
    AAA rated hotel, but was also in need of repair.  We're going to 
    stick to 3-star rated places from now on! Luckily these places were
    only for one night stays.  
     

    	I saw several mentions in the string about Westgate Villas.
    	Since they dated back to 1993 or earlier, has anyone
    	been there since.  I'm looking at staying there for 10 nights
    	in a one bedroom bi-level for $70/night.  They seem to be a 
    	good value; townhouse, pool, 11 Jacuzzi's, beach and boating
    	and a Kid's club and clubhouse.  I have info coming to me
    	next week.
    
    	I want to stay somewhere with a suite or home but want a place
    	that you can relax, do things on property, be around other people
    	and still not pay big $$$. 
    
    	The Residence Inn in Kissimmee may also qualify.
    
    	Any other choices I should be looking into for Oct this year?

    
    	My in-laws have a timeshare at the Westgate.  It's a nice place.
    There's an orange grove next to it that you can pick oranges and make 
    fresh orange juice.
    
    	I was there Jan 1994.  11 Jacuzzi's seems high.  I remember about
    4.  There are several nice pools.  The boating was paddle boats.  I
    don't remember any other boats.  There was shuffle board and a nice 
    kid's playground.  There's a clubhouse with video games and ping pong.
    
    	While we there, there were many, many people walking through
    getting the timeshare push.  One time, while sitting in the Jacuzzi
    right next to the clubhouse, there was a tour every 2 minutes.  By the
    end of the week, I heard the tour in mostly Spanish, but also German,
    French and English.
    
    	They had several Fun nights while we there with a barbecue and 
    one night a band and the other night a singer.
    
    	Very pleasant and close to Disney.  They had an information desk
    there that helped get tickets for various attractions.  
    
    	Rooms were clean and airy.  Not a fabulous place but pleasant.
    Staff was helpful.  

    re -.1
    
    Thanks for the update.  I didn't get any feeling that there might be 
    tours going thru but since you and another noter mentioned it, 
    I'm going to ask about it when I call to confirm.
    
    Bob

    re: westgate tours
    
    We stayed there in Nov 1993, courtesy of a timeshare swap by my
    in-laws. We spent the bulk of our time at Disney, but in all the time
    we spent in and around the condo, we were never pressured to "take the
    tour", nor did we notice a lot of such activity. There were, of course,
    a few subtle reminders of the 'great opportunity', but nothing more
    pressing than a brochure tucked into the welcome basket, or a flyer 
    distributed during one of the many cocktail hours, or an offer of
    discounted park tickets, etc.
    
    We'd stay there again in a heartbeat! Good luck!

    The timeshare tours should not be a problem. For a little more 
    you could go 2 miles down the street to stay at Orange Lake. NO
    comparison, Orange Lake is light years ahead. 27 holes of gold, lake
    with skiing etc. 15 tennis courts, many activities, hugh complex with
    very large pools etc.  Vistana would be another excellent resort.
    Since these resorts are both much larger than Westgate they would
    provide more selection, they are all timeshares. Typically large
    2 Br units at Orange lake are rented around 600-700 per week. some
    cases they will be much higher depending on demand. ORange lake
    has very few 1 br units. I think you will do well at any of them.
    A similar unit in Disney with comparable features to your Westgate unit
    would cost you 250+++ per day. Westgate is about 5 minutes drive to
    almost anything in Disney. You also save because you can buy groceries
    etc., these units usually have very nice fully equipped kitchens. 
    				Harold

    
    IF your looking for a good cheap non-disney hotel, the travelodge in
    kissimmee is running what they call a 'smart season' special.
    
    $99 for 5 nights, plus a coupon book.  It's valid Sept 1 - Dec 19.
    Nights can be used during this timeframe either this year OR next
    year and don't have to be used all at once.
    
    The only drawback I can see is it's about 14 miles down US 192 from the
    maingate.  What the hey.  during the off season should be no problem.
    
    Their direct 800 number is 1-800-279-2995
    
    I haven't called around to see who can beat 19.99 per night on US 192.
    
    --bert

    Bert...and others,
    
    The TraveLodge has not been "packing them in" lately for a number of
    reasons. Many who have recently stayed there have mentioned that the
    hotel is showing age (it's only 25 years old) and needs a facelifting
    and an improvement in the quality of service.
    
    I stayed there a long time ago and thought it was decent but haven't
    been there recently so I cannot give a personal opinion on what the
    hotel has these days.
    
    When hotels have specials that amount to $20/night a flag should go
    up.
    
    Mike

    
    I expect your right Mike.  Does seem too good to be true.
    But what can you expect for $19 a night.  8^}
    
    I called around and found that some of the newer, nicer close
    in hotels (like 1 mile from World Drive 'maingate' on US 192) are running 
    in the $33 range in November.  This was like the Comfort Inn, and the 
    Econolodge Maingate Hawaiian.
    
    Seems like all the older, farther from maingate hotels down in
    Kissimmee are matching the $20 rates of travelodge.
                                            
    

My family and I are planning a trip to WDW in May and we are currently planning
to stay at the Best Western Buena Vista Suites (about 1.5 miles from WDW).  

Has anyone heard of this place or stayed there?  It was recommended very 
highly in the Unofficial Guide to Disney (1995) and has a triple A rating of 
3 diamonds, but I've never heard anyone mention it before in this conference.  

We are not currently considering staying inside the park because we would like
to have a separate room for our boys (5, 5, and 7), to sleep in.

- Julie

    I can not speak for [or against] the Best western directly, BUT,
    
    the outside motels on 192 I stayed at had at leat three separate locks
    on the doors, and a security patrols.  That said, I don't believe these
    places add these security features to help the unemployment in the
    area.  Having stayed in that area, I can say that I would not leave
    my 13 and 14 yr old in a room by themselves overnight in that area.
    of the 19 days in the area, I only felt safe the 9 days on property.
    the only clean-bug free, oderless days were those 9 days.
    I found the rating in the unoffical guide to be worthless with my
    personal evaluation.  I stayed in a 4 diamond place that I would not
    restay at if I won the room free.
    
    I really, truely believe your kids would have a lot more fun at any
    onsite place.  even if they do sleep in the same room as mom and dad.
    little details including the wakeup service by disney characters, my
    teens would jumpo out of bed and race to the phone.  Maids that play
    with the kids.  Kids things to do.  *real* heated pools.  cleanlyness.
    
    nah, recount your dollars and invest in a disney vacation.
    
    ed
    

    
    Going down to WDW this April. Staying at Wilson World Maingate.
    
    Would like to hear the good and the bad...about the place. We heard
    they spent close to a million dollars renovating last year. The rate
    we got for the week after Easter was $42.00 a night. Your basic room
    TV, two queen beds, two heated pools (one inside one out). A large
    tropical style restaurant (all kids meals free). They have all kind
    of activities for the kids. The pamphlet also talks about an ice-cream
    and pizza parlor. I know everything sounds good and looks good on the 
    pamphlet but until you see it for yourself, or get info from other 
    people you don't really know. So any info would really help.
    
    Thanks
    Dave  " 50 DAYS AND COUNTING "

    We are planning a trip in January 1997 and will be staying 
    at the Gateway Inn in Orlando, all comments on this hotel will
    be much appreciated.
    
    Candy

    
    	I have a package deal being offered that includes the "Vistana
    Hotel". Has anyone stayed here?
    
    Thanks,
    Steve

    Has anyone stayed at the Hyatt Orlando ($504), Bronson Drive or
    the Embassy Suites on Int'l Dr South ($824)?  I have friends who
    are looking into either one of these for a weeks stay.
    
    Thanks,
    Julie
    

	Any comments on the Holiday Inn Hotel and Suites Disney MainGate?
	How far is it from the Disney Village Marketplace (especially the
	Hilton at the Disney Village Marketplace?)

	thanks/robin

  I can give a thumbs-up to the Comfort Suites on Turkey Lake Road
(quite close to Universal).  This was perfect for visiting the non
Disney Orlando attractions (I'd stay on site for my Disney days).

  The room was clean and comfortable, pool area was quite nice.
The $55 AAA rate included continental breakfast.