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Address |
5601 Universal Blvd |
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Location |
International Drive Area |
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Transportation |
From I-4, take the Kirkman Rd./Hwy. 435 exit and follow the signs to Universal |
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Phone |
888/322-5541, 407/503-1000 |
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Fax |
407/224-7118 |
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Web site |
www.loewshotels.com/hotels/Orlando |
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Room Information |
750 units |
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Prices |
$269-$499 double; $519-$2,500 suites and villas. Extra person $25. Children 17 and younger stay free in parent's room |
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Credit Cards |
AE, DC, DISC, MC, V |
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In Room Amenities |
A/C, TV/DVD, high-speed Internet access (fee), minibar, fridge and microwave (suites), hair dryer, iron, safe, CD players, video games (fee) |
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Parking |
Self-parking $12; valet parking $18 |
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Pets |
Small pets stay free |
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Other |
www.universalorlando.com |
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Frommer's Review
Universal's first hotel is as grand as Disney's Grand Floridian and is a perfect getaway for couples and adults seeking a romantic, upscale atmosphere. This resort is a replica of the village of Portofino, Italy, complete with a harbor and canals on which boats travel to the theme parks. Old-world ambience is carried throughout the public areas, restaurants, and rooms. The luxurious rooms are large (with sleep space for five), and hypoallergenic rooms are available. The beds have Egyptian-woven sheets, and the pillows are so soft you'll want to take them home. Thanks to a multimillion-dollar renovation a couple of years ago, rooms feature top-notch amenities and a sophisticated decor; ask for a view overlooking the piazza and "bay" area. The Portofino doesn't just have swimming pools; its beach pool has a fort with a water slide, and the villa pool rents several private cabanas. The resort's privately run Mandara Spa (www.mandaraspa.com) features a state-of-the-art fitness center and full-service spa. The drawbacks: There are stairs everywhere you turn (be prepared for some exercise), and the sheer size of the resort can make it difficult to find your way around.
Note: Guests enjoy special privileges at the Universal Orlando theme parks, including Express-line access to rides and preferred seating at shows and restaurants.
Warning: The Universal hotels (the Portofino, the Hard Rock, and the Royal Pacific) do inexcusably gouge customers in the parking department. Self-parking (almost always free at Orlando hotels, including the Disney ones) at all of the Universal properties is a steep $12 per day.
Facilities4 restaurants; deli; 3 lounges; 3 outdoor heated pools (1 for concierge-level and suite guests only); kids' pool; fitness center; spa; watersports equipment; kids' club; playground; arcade; salon, concierge; tour desk; free water-taxi and bus transportation to Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and CityWalk; free shuttle to SeaWorld; transportation to WDW parks for a fee; business center; shopping arcade; 24-hr. room service; babysitting; guest laundry; concierge-level rooms; valet.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
