Lake Buena Vista Resort Village & Spa, a Sky Hotel & Resort

Description:

• Near the southern end of International Drive, within walking distance of the Lake Buena Vista Factory Stores, this relatively new ownership-based resort offers spacious two-, three-, and four-bedroom apartment-style accommodations ranging in size from 1,080 square feet to 2,170 square feet, each tastefully decorated in tropical Tommy Bahama-style furnishings. Fully stocked full-size kitchens appointed with granite countertops and rich dark wood cabinetry, washers and dryers, plasma televisions, and master suites with Jacuzzis are the norm here. Kids and adults alike will love the 7,500-square-foot zero-entry lagoon-style pirate-themed pool (with a waterslide that winds its way through a 70-foot-long life-size pirate ship equipped with shooting water cannons). Swaying hammocks are scattered about the surrounding sundeck while cabanas allow for a poolside massage. You can grab a bite to eat or sip on tropical concoctions poolside -- a large entertainment deck provides a view of the entire pool. For those seeking a more relaxing experience, the full-service Reflections Spa offers a tranquil undersea-inspired atmosphere with a slew of services guaranteed to rejuvenate even the most weary traveler. Its location -- just off World Center Drive -- allows for quick access to almost all the parks: Disney is less than 5 minutes by car and SeaWorld (Discovery Cove and Aquatica) is just a bit farther (about 10 min.), though Universal is more removed (approximately 20 min.-plus from the resort). Complimentary shuttle service is available to all of the major theme parks.

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Very Highly Recommended 2010