Me and the girls had a wonderful time! By girls, I mean my four daughters (ages 4, 9, 15 and 19). We spent a wonderful week and a half at the Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa on the grounds of the Walt Disney World Resort. Let me start by saying this, impressive!
From the moment that we arrived at the airport, where were greeted by a Disney cast member who showed us to the specific area in the airport designated for Disney guests. Quite impressive. We were then led to the shuttle that would take all of the guests to their designated resort. The ride was comfortable and also the driver that we had made me feel like we were actually in Miami as opposed to Orlando, he was a Cuban gentleman with a laid back accent that immediately made you feel relaxed.
We arrived at our resort and the customary “Welcome Home” was the greeting we received. After being checked in we were then taken to our villa. It was nicely appointed. I reserved a one bedroom and to say that I was shocked with what the amenities were would be an understatement. The sofabed was large enough for my teenagers and the queen sized bed comfortably fir myself and the two younger ones. The bathroo area was large enough so that noone had to be in the way of one another when getting ready for the day or settling down in the evening. The jacuzzi tub and shower area made this possible. The kitchen was a fully functional one with stove, dishwasher, toaster, microwave, coffeemaker and full sized fridge. All the utensils, plates, bowls, pots, pans and what nots were what you would find in your own home. I could’ve ordered groceries beforehand, which I suggest if traveling with kids, and did some light cooking for breakfast, lunch or snacktime. I foolishly did not order them and ended up shopping at the convenience store which has a full pantry for all your eating needs.
The resort can be a bit overwhelming as it is very huge and laid out. Luckily, there are shuttles that run throughout the resort every twenty minutes and can take you to different areas of the resort as well as to the theme parks, shoppiong district and waterparks. Another perk, if you need to catch a cab because they cannot provide transportation, if you are Disney Vacation Club memeber, the resort foots the bill. How is that for service?
This resort has a wonderful pool area as well as a Community House where you can rent movies, play video games, do activities and just relax and talk to other DVC members.
The nice thing about this resort is that it was not “campy” like you would expect, the Disney influence is definitely there but subtle. This resort would be a nice place to stay even if you are traveling with just adults in your party. The staff seems to go out of their way to make sure that your stay is a pleasant one. My fifteen year old even called late one night for an extra blanket and a housekeeper brought it to us within 15 minutes.
The restaurant on the grounds of the resort was very nice. The prices were a bit steep but nonetheless tasty. The cafeteria style area was definitely worth the price you pay because the food was tasty and decently priced.
I could go on and on about the DisneyWorld Theme Park. This was the first time for my three younger children and myself. I will say this. Disney is truly the happiest place on earth! From the moment we stepped through the gate, I was floored! I was lke a kid again, looking here and there. The colors were so vibrant! Make sure that you go when it opens. Yes, it is crowded but your child (ren) and maybe even you will be in comlete and utter awe. The parade made my nine year old’s morning. She was so happy to hear the “Hannah Montana” song being played during the procession that the look on her face was priceless. My four year old had came to see two characters foremost and that was Mickey and Minnie Mouse. When she said, “I am so happy I could cry”, I actually did! I had never seen so much joy on their tiny faces in all my life. Even my fifteen and nineteen year old were enjoying themselves, despite trying to act all grown up.
The resort is relatively safe and I heard of no incidents while I was there. It makes for an ideal place for people traveling with children. Safety always comes first of course so always make sure to put the night lock on your door at all times when in the room, if you must go out at night, travel in well lit areas and not alone, do not get too comfy with others, though it is easy and allow them into your room, there are too many areas to meet at. Make sure to use the in room safe for any valuables, passports or other items of importance.
This brings me to the end and I would say Disney is a place everyone should go to at lease once, especially if they have children. I also have a review that you can read on trip advisor at the following link, http://toronto-tourism.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g34515-d483299-r38875919-Disney_s_Saratoga_Springs_Resort_Spa-Orlando_Florida.html. Until next time, Happy Travels!
View of the Villas from the Pond
Goofy and the Girls
Pool View from Above
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