Tuesday, December 4, 2012

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Studios

When traveling to Orlando one of our biggest attractions are the hotels themselves.  Portofino Bay is located right on the property of Universal Studios and is a water taxi or cycle trip to the parks.  The hotel is designed like 15th century Venice, Italy with spacious grounds, several wings of rooms and villas with two pools and numerous bars and restaurants.

Rooms start at $279/dbl but they also have deluxe and luxury suites for those who can afford them.  Presidential Suites are for the rich so most of us can't afford them but they are all available.

Room sizes range from 475 feet to 675 feet with the elite suites upwards of 2000 feet (Maybe someday). We've stayed there both in winter and summer and it's always a great experience.  The staff is very gracious and treat everybody like a VIP.  There is formal dining and cafe dining or you can order a pizza to take to your room.  Pets are welcome (for a charge) and there is a nice kennel available for them while your family enjoys the parks.

Portofino Bay, like the other on-site hotels, also has the Fast Pass privilege that goes with your park tickets for no additional charge.  There is also a one hour early in for Harry Potter for room key holders which is great for the kids.  They have two great pools.  The one pictured above shows the water slide and is more family-oriented while the villa pool (right) is a little quieter.  They both have bars and food availability but the kids like the grand pool because of more activity.

Portofino Bay hosts a full service Convention Center which is great for business travelers and they can cater large events such as wedding receptions.  This place has it all and it's always great to spend the day at the parks and walk straight to your room.  We love staying there and will be going back soon.

Check their rates through Universal Studios web site but also compare to the other travel sites.   I know I say it a lot but compare and save. It's money in your pocket.  Have fun.