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Walt Disney World Dolphin ReviewIf Antonio Gaudà and Dr. Seuss had teamed up on an architectural design, they might have created something like this Starwood resort and its sister, the Walt Disney World Swan. This hotel centers on a 27-story pyramid with two 11-story wings crowned by 56-foot twin dolphin sculptures. Because it isn't as theme-intensive as the other Disney resorts, it's popular with business travelers and those who prefer their accommodations a little less sugary. Rooms, after being redecorated in 2008, sport warm yet contemporary earth-tone color schemes, custom curtains, upgraded technology, and the usual array of amenities; all offer views of the grounds and other parts of Mickey's world. Public areas are a bit more avant-garde, thanks in part to the dramatic lighting, earth-tone color schemes, and upscale furnishings. The resort shares a grotto pool with waterfalls, water slide, and whirlpools, as well as a Body by Jake health club (for an extra fee) with the Swan. There's also a branch of the Mandara Spa. Camp Dolphin is a supervised children's program for kids ages 4 to 12, offering a variety of activities to keep the little ones busy while mom and dad enjoy some time alone. Epcot is the nearest park, just a short water-taxi ride away, and the BoardWalk and Beach and Yacht Club resorts are within walking distance, greatly expanding the dining and entertainment options within reach of your own two feet. That said, with Todd English's bluezoo heading up the resort's dining lineup, you won't need to go too far for a really good meal. When a WDW Property Is Not a WDW Property -- There are nine "official" Disney hotels that aren't owned by Disney itself. That's true. But there are a couple of asterisks. The Walt Disney World Swan and the Walt Disney World Dolphin have the Walt Disney name and are located right on the WDW resort property, but they're not Disney-owned resorts, so they are considered "official" resorts. Facilities: 4 restaurants; cafe; grill; 5 lounges; character meals; babysitting; supervised children's program; concierge; concierge-level rooms; health club & spa (fee); 5 heated outdoor pools; room service; 4 lighted tennis courts; watersports equipment rentals; WDW Transportation System; transportation to non-Disney parks for a fee; limited Wi-Fi (fee). Facilities: 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.
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| 0 stars | Frommer's Recommended | |
| 1 stars | Frommer's Highly Recommended | |
| 2 stars | Frommer's Very Highly Recommended | |
| 3 stars | Frommer's Exceptional |
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Other ratings provide stars based primarily on price and amenities; the Frommer's star rating is meant to quantify the kind of intangible, experiential elements that help travelers make informed decisions.
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