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Comfy beds and spacious suites, each with a fully equipped kitchen and a low-key feel
that is lacking at comparable chain hotels in Orlando. There's a complimentary hot break-
fast, a dinner buffet (weekdays) and a 24 hour snack shop. Great choice, particularly if
you're going to Universal Orlando and don't want to stay on-site. The hotel sits a
15-minute walk from Universal Orlando Resort, though it's an unpleasant walk over the in-
terstate.
Castle Hotel
HOTEL
tional Dr; r $140-270, parking per-day $15;
;
I-Ride Trolley Red Line Stop 20 or Green
Line Stop 10)
You can't miss the castlelike exterior of this International Dr landmark. Inside you'll find
gilt, sparkle and antler chandeliers, with rooms decorated in deep purple and red; outside, a
small pool sits next to a modern and airy garden-inspired cafe. Wi-fi costs $15 per night.
There's a $150 nonrefundable fee for pets.
Grande Lakes Orlando - JW Marriott & Ritz-Carlton
LUXURY HOTEL
4012 Central Florida Pkwy (Ritz Carlton), 4040 Central Park Pkwy (JW Marriott); r $299-400, ste from
$350, resort fee per-day $25, self/valet parking $19/26; )
Two properties, one a Ritz and the other a Marriott, share facilities. The grounds, peaceful
and elegant, with plenty of greenery and the best lazy river pool in Orlando, sit in a
sheltered oasis of quiet and luxury. The spa is divine, the service impeccable, the food out-
standing and most rooms have balconies overlooking the pool and golf course.
Excellent for honeymooners and families alike, this hotel is the rare Orlando find that
seamlessly combines child and adult friendly. Rates at the Marriott are generally a bit less
than the Ritz.
Around Walt Disney World
Countless hotels, motels and resorts in Lake Buena Vista, Kissimmee and Celebration lie
within a few miles of Walt Disney World. In addition to these recommended options,
there's an excellent selection of chain motels along grassy Palm Pkwy just outside Disney's
