Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
120
International Plaza Resort & Spa
Extensive renovations, though not yet complete
when this topic went to print (which, at press time, was also rumored to include a name
change to the Doubletree Orlando Resort International Drive), have brought this nicely
landscaped 28-acre resort back to life—the grounds filled with flowing fountains, water-
falls, and gardens blooming with color. Located just feet from SeaWorld (and its sibling
parks), and just minutes from I-Drive, it's a good option for guests who plan on venturing
beyond Disney's World. Rooms, redesigned to include a sliding partition that, if you like,
can close off the vanity from the main room, are more sophisticated now—some even
border on being chic and trendy with splashes of color. Select rooms sport laminate wood
floors, while others are carpeted; views range from the pool (interior) to the parking lot
(exterior). Palm-lined pools (including three main pools and two attended kids' pools), a
small mini-golf course, a kid's club, and a full-service spa are just a sampling of what you'll
find to keep you busy when staying here. On-site dining options are plentiful and varied,
though a slew of restaurants line nearby I-Drive for those who prefer to venture out.
10100 International Dr. (near the Beachline Expwy./528), Orlando, Florida 32831.
&
888/569-0048
or
407/352-1100. Fax 407/354-4007. www.intlplazaresort.com. 1,100 units. $89-$279 double, $279-$430
suite. Extra person $25. Children 17 and younger stay free in parent's room. AE, DC, DISC, MC, V. Valet
parking $10; self-parking free.
Amenities:
Restaurant; cafe; 2 lounges; babysitting; children's activities;
health club; Jacuzzi; 3 outdoor pools including 2 kids' pools; free transportation to all major theme parks.
In room:
A/C, TV, fridge (select rooms), game system, hair dryer, microwave (select rooms), MP3 docking
station, Wi-Fi (fee).
Lake Eve Resort
One of the newest additions to the collection of Sky Hotels and
Resorts, Lake Eve features one-, two-, and three-bedroom suites (the latter sleep up to 10),
each with a direct view of (surprise!) Lake Eve. Flatscreen TVs (in the living area as well
as every bedroom), well-equipped gourmet kitchens (with stainless steel appliances and
granite countertops), washers and dryers, and a stylish modern decor are staples in every
suite. The free-form pool is particularly inviting—the lake making a spectacular back-
drop. Kids will appreciate the wading pool, water play area, and Sky Kids Club; parents
will appreciate the many conveniences, including a complimentary grocery shopping
service (the service is free—the groceries are not), restaurant delivery service (for a small
fee), complimentary transportation to area theme parks, and the stress-free atmosphere.
12388 International Dr. (the southernmost end of I-Dr.), Orlando, FL 32819.
&
866/934-7985
or 407/
597-0370. Fax 407/597-0371. www.lakeeveresort.com or www.staysky.com. 176 units. $159-$239 suite.
Extra person $25. Children 17 and younger stay free in parent's room. AE, DC, DISC, MC, V. Self-parking
free.
Amenities:
Restaurant; lounge; supervised children's program; children's activities; concierge;
health club; Jacuzzi; outdoor pool (heated seasonally); kids' pool and water play area; room service;
sauna; free transportation to all major theme parks.
In room:
A/C, TV, DVD player (upon request; fee),
fridge, hair dryer, fully equipped & stocked kitchen, washer & dryer, Wi-Fi (free).
4
La Quinta Inn & Suites Convention Center
Opened in 1998, this is one of a
handful of upscale, moderately priced motels on Universal Boulevard, which runs paral-
lel to (but isn't as congested as) I-Drive. The hotel is aimed at business travelers, but this
is Orlando, so families traveling with kids are welcomed with open arms. King rooms are
designed for extended stays and have a fridge and microwave. A limited number of two-
room suites offering separate living and sleeping areas is available.
8504 Universal Blvd., Orlando, FL 32819.
&
800/753-3757,
407/345-1365, or 407/654-0209. Fax
407/345-5586. www.lq.com. 184 units. $129-$149 double; $149-$159 suite. Extra person $10. Rates
include continental breakfast. Children 18 and younger stay free in parent's room. AE, DC, DISC, MC, V.
Self-parking free. Take I-4 to the Sand Lake Rd./Hwy. 482 exit, go east toward Universal, and then right.
Small pets accepted.
Amenities:
Exercise room; Jacuzzi; outdoor heated pool; transportation to all
