Disney Hotel — How to Choose the Best Accommodations on a Disney World Vacation ;-)
By Craig Elliott
Vacation Hotel
There are many options available to the vacationer at Walt Disney World. Spending the night in the actual park makes visiting the park a bit easier. If you are going to stay at a Disney hotel, the next decision is which one to choose.
The eight Disney deluxe resorts offer larger rooms ranging from 340 to 410 square feet, as well as balconies on most rooms. They also offer such extras as stylish dining options, concierge service and spectacular locations. Rooms at the deluxe resorts range from around $230 to $700 although larger suites can cost a lot more – you can pay up to around $2700 for some suites.
The moderate resorts offer rooms at prices ranging from around $150 per night to $250. These hotels also offer more stylish dining options than less expensive hotels and the rooms contain coffee makers and refrigerators.
Pools at the moderate resorts offer such extras as hot tubs and poolside bars.
The least expensive category is the value resorts, with room rates ranging from around $90 to $140. Disney also offers several resorts that they call Home Away from Home Resorts, which are basically condo rentals, and part of Disney’s timeshare program.
Walt Disney World is an extremely large resort; and, next to price, the location of your hotel is the next factor to consider when on deciding which hotel to choose. The three best hotels, location wise, are generally considered to be the Grand Floridian, the Polynesian and Disney’s Contemporary resort. All three are conveniently located on the Disney monorail line.
If you stay at any Disney hotel, free transportation throughout the parks is included in the room cost.
Depending on your preference, you may want to choose a Disney hotel with a particular theme. The themes are skillfully and subtly incorporated into every element of the hotel; the architecture, room design, and restaurants all reflect the particular theme.
If you happen to be traveling with children to Disney World, as many people are, kids tend to enjoy staying at the themed hotels. Also, children under 18 stay for free in Disney hotel on what is known as the family plan. Check in time is 3pm at most Disney hotels and check out time is usually at 11am. All the Disney resorts, as well as many other hotels in the Orlando area, offer baby sitting services. The more expensive Disney resorts have child care facilities with activity programs throughout the day.
