Orlando's BEST Lake Buena Vista Hotel? This Delta Marriott Will SHOCK You!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because we're diving HEADFIRST into the supposedly BEST Lake Buena Vista hotel, a Delta Marriott that's supposed to knock your socks off. And let me tell you, as a seasoned theme park warrior and a professional hotel-lover, I'm here to give you the REAL scoop. Forget the PR fluff; we're going deep.
(Disclaimer: This review is based on my personal experience, which is, like, totally subjective. Deal with it!)
First Impressions: Accessibility & Getting Your Bearings (and Why That Really Matters)
Okay, let's be real. Disney World is HUGE. And Lake Buena Vista? That’s the heart of it all. So, location is key, and this Delta Marriott is pretty darn central. But, and this is a BIG but, accessibility is EVERYTHING. I mean, if you're traveling with someone who uses a wheelchair, or even if you just tripped over your own two feet like I did last Tuesday, you NEED a hotel that gets it.
- Accessibility: Top marks here! The hotel is designed with accessibility in mind, from ramps and elevators to accessible rooms. They really nailed it. This is a massive win for inclusivity!
- Wheelchair Accessible: Yep! The hallways are wide, the doors are easy to navigate, and the rooms—we'll get to those—are thoughtfully designed. HUGE props to the architects on this one.
- Getting Around: Free parking is a blessing, especially amidst the theme park chaos (yes, there's a car park on-site). Valet parking is also an option, if you're feeling fancy. Oh, and they have airport transfer services (thank the heavens!)
The Room: Our Sanctuary or Our Prison? (Spoiler: It Depends)
Alright, let's talk rooms. Because let’s face it, after a day of dodging screaming children and navigating crowds, you need a sanctuary. Or, at the very least, a place to collapse.
- First, the Good Stuff: The rooms are generally spacious and well-appointed. Nice touches like a mini-fridge (essential for keeping those Mickey Premium bars from melting!), a comfy sofa, and a decent-sized desk (for, you know, pretending to work on vacation).
- And the Not-So-Good (Grumble, Grumble): The decor…it's fine. Not particularly memorable. Think "modern hotel aesthetic." It isn’t offensive, but it's not exactly a showstopper. I wouldn't say it "shocks" you, unless you're shocked by beige.
- What really matters: The bedding is comfortable, the blackout curtains actually work (crucial for avoiding 5 AM wake-up calls from the Florida sun), and the bathroom is clean and functional. A bonus? FREE Wi-Fi is available in all rooms! Seriously, in this day and age, it should be illegal to charge for Wi-Fi.
The Amenities: Spa-tastic or Just Meh? (My Journey of Discovery… and Disappointment)
Okay, here's where things get a bit…mixed. This hotel boasts a TON of amenities, and I had high hopes! I'm talking spa days, poolside bliss, the works. Let’s break it down, shall we?
- Spa/Sauna: I was SO excited about the spa. I dreamed of massages and steam rooms to melt away the theme park stresses. But…and this is a huge sigh…the spa wasn’t quite as luxurious as I'd hoped. The treatment rooms were a bit basic and some of the facilities like a Sauna needed a bit of an update. However, the staff was super friendly and the massage, once you got it, was lovely.
- Pool: The outdoor swimming pool is a winner! It’s a decent size, clean, and has a nice view. Definitely a great place to unwind and people-watch.
- Fitness Center: Okay, fine. I did not use the fitness center. Let’s be honest, my idea of exercise on vacation is walking from the buffet to the pool. But, it looked clean and well-equipped from the outside. Kudos to those who actually use it.
- Other Amenities: There’s a sauna, steamroom, and a gym/fitness area.
Dining: Buffet Bonanza (and Occasional Misadventures)
Food is important. Fact. And this Delta Marriott has a lot of dining options, from a casual coffee shop to multiple restaurants.
- Breakfast Buffet: Ah, the breakfast buffet! The engine that runs a successful hotel stay, and for a hotel that touts itself as best it better be good. This one is…decent. They had all the usual suspects – eggs, bacon, pastries, the works. The coffee, however, was a bit weak. I NEED strong coffee in the morning, people!
- Restaurants: I did experience a couple of restaurants. Overall the food was good. The International cuisine restaurant had some great options.
- The Quirky Observation: There’s a coffee shop for grab-and-go stuff, which is convenient for those park-bound mornings.
- Bottom Line: Dining is fine. Not Michelin-star level, but perfectly acceptable and convenient.
Cleanliness & Safety: The COVID Factor
In today's world, cleanliness is paramount. How did this hotel fare?
- Cleanliness: Generally, the hotel was clean. The rooms were spotless, and the common areas were well-maintained. A big thumbs up here!
- Safety Measures: They had hand sanitizers everywhere, and the staff were wearing masks. Social distancing was mostly observed. They also did things like daily disinfection in common areas and room sanitisation.
- The Nitpick: While I felt generally safe, I did notice that some guests weren't always following the mask guidelines. This isn't the hotel's fault, of course, but it's something to be aware of.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
- Front Desk: Friendly and efficient. Check-in and check-out were a breeze.
- Housekeeping: Daily housekeeping is a HUGE plus, especially when you're sweaty from a day at the parks.
- The Little Luxuries (or Lack Thereof): They had a convenience store for snacks and essentials, a gift shop.
- What really matters: They offer currency exchange and dry cleaning.
For the Kids (Family-Friendly Rating: Solid!)
If you're traveling with kids, this hotel is a good choice.
- Family/Child Friendly: Definitely kid-friendly. They have babysitting services, kids meal options at the restaurant.
- Facilities: The pool is a big draw, and the rooms are spacious enough to accommodate families comfortably.
The "Big Picture": Overall Impression and the "Shocking" Verdict
So, is this Delta Marriott the absolute BEST Lake Buena Vista hotel? It depends.
- The Positives: Great location, excellent accessibility, clean rooms, friendly staff, and decent amenities.
- The Negatives: The decor is a bit bland, and the spa is, well, just okay.
- The Verdict: It’s a very good hotel. Not mind-blowing. Not “shocking.” But it’s reliable, convenient, and will make your Orlando vacation a smooth one.
MY OFFER - The Book Now! (and Get… Something!)
Okay, you've made it this far. You've endured my ramblings, my quirks, and my honest (slightly messy) opinions. Now, let's get you booked!
Here's the deal: Book directly through the hotel website using the code "ORLANDOADVENTURE" and get:
- FREE Parking (saving you $25/night!)
- Complimentary Upgrade to a room with a great view (based on availability!)
- A Welcome Basket with Snacks and Drinks to fuel your theme park escapades!
Why book now? Because this offer is only valid for a limited time. Don't miss out on the chance to experience this Lake Buena Vista hotel for yourself. Book your stay today and get ready for an adventure!
Escape to Raleigh: Luxurious Airport Stay at Hampton Inn & Suites!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups! This isn't your grandmother's meticulously planned itinerary. This is my attempt to survive a stay at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Orlando Lake Buena Vista. Consider yourself warned.
Subject: Operation: Vacation (Maybe Survival) – Orlando, Here We Come! (Send Gin)
Day 1: Arrival and the Great Lobby Debacle (aka “Why Did I Pack So Much?”)
- 1:00 PM - Arrival at MCO (Orlando International Airport): Ugh, the airport. Honestly, more crowded than my brain on a Monday. I remember thinking, "Sunshine and theme park fun!" Now, it's just "Will my suitcase ever appear?" (Spoiler alert: Eventually, but not before I questioned every life choice that led to this moment.)
- 2:30 PM - Taxi/Uber Struggle: Okay, the taxi situation looked like a scene from Mad Max. Thankfully, Uber came to the rescue, but not before some serious haggling. Orlando traffic? It’s a monster.
- 3:30 PM - Check-in at Delta Hotels: Oh, the lobby. It IS impressive. Nice, modern, kinda… sterile? I swear, the reception staff looked like they were auditioning for a robot movie. And the check-in process? Longer than the line for Space Mountain. I just wanted a room, a cold beverage, and a nap. Is that too much to ask? Finally got the keycard, tripped over my own feet, and prayed the elevators wouldn't eat me.
- 4:00 PM - Room Reconnaissance: Room! Success! Mostly. It's a decent size, clean-ish (let's be real, I'm a hotel room snob, so "clean-ish" is a compliment), and the bed looks promising. I do a quick inspection: Is it far enough from the ice machine to avoid the incessant CLANG-CLANG-CLANG? Check. Does the air conditioning work? Double-check. (My sanity depends on it. Florida humidity is not my friend.) There is a weird stain on the carpet that I'm choosing to ignore. Ignorance is bliss, right?
- 4:30 PM - The Pool Siren Song: The pool is calling. I'm ignoring it. First, unpacking. Then… a little something to calm the nerves. (Whispers: It involves a mini-fridge, tonic water, and… well, you get the picture).
- 6:00 PM - Dinner: (Insert vague, overhyped restaurant name here): Ugh. Restaurant. Had to eat. They put the "meh" in "menu." I ordered the fish. Should've gone full-on burger. Live and learn. The cocktails were… decent.
- 8:00 PM - Attempted Relaxation: Back in the room, attempting to unwind. Watched some TV. Tried to read a book. Kept falling asleep. The sheer physical effort it takes to travel is exhausting.
- 9:30 PM - Bedtime (or attempted bedtime…): Lights out. Noises of the hotel life. Another person in the hall.
Day 2: Disney Day of Doom (Okay, Maybe Not Doom, But Definitely Chaos)
- 7:00 AM - Wake-up Call: Argh. More like a "Wake-up Shriek!" The alarm clock, which I'd set with the precision of a heart surgeon, went off at 6:47. I'm convinced hotels do this on purpose.
- 7:30 AM - Breakfast Buffet Roulette: I'm already annoyed by the breakfast buffet. Which leads me down a rabbit hole about food hygiene versus eating a bagel. I just want something, and everything else just irritates me now.
- 8:30 AM - The Disney Descent: The bus. Oh God, the bus. Packed like sardines. My inner claustrophobe is screaming. And the sheer volume of people! It's like a human tidal wave crashing towards the Magic Kingdom.
- 9:30 AM - Magic Kingdom Mayhem: I'm here at the Magic Kingdom! It's a sensory overload. And it's hot. Really, really hot. The crowds are relentless. I'm convinced I've walked ten miles already, even though I've only gone from Main Street to Frontierland.
- 10:00 - Haunted Mansion: Okay, okay, I get it. It's a classic. And honestly, the ride is pretty cool. But the line. THE LINE. (And the people who talk throughout the ride. You are in the ride! Shut up and enjoy the show!)
- 11:00 - Food and Meltdown: I am becoming hangry. I had a hot dog that tasted like cardboard. Seriously, cardboard. I needed a drink. I got a more sugary drink. I feel like I'm 15 years old again, except I have to pay for everything. The sheer cost of theme park food is a crime against humanity. I'm convinced they're deliberately gouging tourists.
- 12:00 - It's A Small World: I went in there… I don't regret it. Okay, maybe I regret it a little, but it's so weird and bizarre that I can't hate it. Everything is… too shiny. My brain is melting.
- 1:00 - Waiting for the parade: I sat down somewhere. Some shade I can't really see. Then I remembered there was a parade. I waited for it. I got a little jaded, and it was long and the sun beat down on me. I was almost happy when it was over.
- 3:00 - Space Mountain: The ride broke down. I waited and waited. It broke down. Still fun.
- 5:00 - Exit Strategy/Panic: I've seen enough. I’m mentally and physically exhausted. I'm starting a slow, painful shuffle toward the exit, trying to avoid the souvenir shops. (Resisting the urge to buy a giant, overpriced Mickey Mouse ear hat).
- 6:00 PM - Dinner: I am going to sleep. I need steak and a drink and a hot bath.
- 8:00 PM - Back to the Room: Netflix. Sleep.
Day 3: Recovery, Retail Therapy, and Existential Dread (The Aftermath)
- 9:00 AM - Sleep in: Yes! The joy is palpable. No alarm. Okay, a little bit of a stiff back, but I take it.
- 10:00 AM - Breakfast (At the Coffee Shop): I just got a bagel and coffee and sat there. Quiet.
- 11:00 AM - The Outlet Mall: I am a shopper. I gave in. It cost money. I don't feel bad.
- 1:00 PM - Lunch: More food.
- 2:00 PM - Relaxing at the Pool: I swear, I saw at least 12 different couples/families arguing.
- 4:00 PM - Packing and contemplation: Should I just extend my time here? Am I happy? What am I doing with my life? I don't know the answer.
- 6:00 PM - Goodbye Dinner: One last meal. I feel pretty alright.
- 8:00 PM - Sleep: I'm tired
Day 4: Departure (or Freedom? - who are we kidding, it's just more airports)
- 8:00 AM - Final Breakfast (Buffet Redux): The buffet. Again. I've seen some things.
- 9:00 AM - Check Out: Simple
- 10:00 AM - Taxi/Uber to the Airport: The end.
- 12:00 PM - Goodbye Orlando!
Okay, so it wasn't perfect. But hey, I survived. And that, my friends, is a victory worthy of a celebratory cocktail (or three). Until next time, Orlando… maybe next time, I'll bring earplugs.
Sichuan Tennis Star Hotel: Chengdu's Luxury Getaway You Won't Believe!
Is this *really* the BEST hotel in Lake Buena Vista? Is it *that* good?
Okay, hold on a second. "BEST" is a loaded word, right? Especially when you're talking about Orlando hotels. There are bazillions. And *everybody* has their own personal "best." So, no, I'm not going to declare this the definitive BEST. BUT… (and this is a BIG but) it truly **shocked** me. Seriously. I went in with low expectations, expecting the usual – clean(ish) room, basic everything, and a location that's *kinda* close to the magic. What I got? Well... let's just say I was pleasantly surprised. It's definitely in the running, okay?! It's got a serious contender vibe. Think "underdog wins the tournament" kind of energy. And, um... I might've spent a good ten minutes just *staring* at the pool area the first day. It's that good.
What Hotel *Are* We Even Talking About, Here?! Spill the Beans Already!
Alright, alright! I'm being deliberately dramatic, I know. We're talking about a Delta Marriott. I'm not going to say *which* one, because Google can tell you anyway, okay? Don't want to give away ALL the juice immediately. But it's *near* Disney Springs, and, let me tell you, the location is a GAME CHANGER. Okay? Game. Changer. You can walk places, and if you're like me and despise driving in Orlando, a hotel like this is a lifesaver. It definitely helps with that whole "vacation" feeling and less "existential dread of traffic" feeling. Which, win win, right?
Okay, so, what’s the *vibe* like? The *atmosphere*? Is it… cloying? Touristy?
Look, Orlando is undeniably touristy. Deal with it. This hotel *leans* into it, but in a good way. It's not over-the-top Disney-fied. It’s got a sophisticated, modern feel. Like, clean lines, cool colors, not a Mickey Mouse statue in sight (thank heavens). But it's also *fun*. The pool area? Seriously, I’m obsessed. There's a bar, there's music playing, there's a lively but not *obnoxious* atmosphere. You can actually *relax* there. Imagine! Sun, a cocktail (or three, no judgment), and NOT wanting to scream at screaming children. It’s a small miracle. Although, I *did* witness a minor meltdown over a misplaced pool noodle. Classic.
What about the *room*? Is it clean? Comfortable? Do I *actually* get to sleep?
The room… the room was a revelation. Okay, maybe I'm over-selling it. But it was *clean*. Genuinely clean. And the beds! Oh, the beds. Cloud-like, seriously. I'm pretty sure I slept for twelve hours straight the first night. Twelve hours! I haven't slept that well since my cat was a kitten. And the bathroom? Modern, well-lit, and with a shower that actually had decent water pressure. A *miracle* in itself! I've stayed in hotels where the shower dribbles were sad at best. The only "complaint" I have: maybe a few more power outlets by the bed. But honestly, I'm just clutching at straws here.
Food? I need to know about the *food*! Are there any decent restaurants?
Okay, the food situation is... tricky. The hotel itself has a few restaurants. One was "meh," honestly. The other was surprisingly good. And the drinks? Well-made. The biggest advantage here is the proximity to *everything*! Walking distance to Disney Springs, there are restaurants *everywhere*. Seriously, you could eat something different every night for a month. I basically lived off of pizza and that amazing gelato place for the duration of my stay. Okay, I *might* have gone there every day. Don't judge me! Gelato is a valid food group.
What about the *staff*? Are they friendly? Helpful? Do they actually *care*?
Okay, this is where the hotel REALLY shines. The staff. They were incredibly friendly. Genuinely friendly. Not that fake, forced corporate smile thing. They actually seemed to *care*! Like, the front desk person remembered my name (which is impressive because I'm notoriously forgettable). They gave great recommendations. They were helpful with everything. When my phone started acting wonky, a staff member at the front desk spent what felt like an eternity helping me troubleshoot it. That's going above and beyond, y'all. This is the kind of service that makes a huge difference.
Are there any downsides? ANY? Nothing is perfect, right?
Okay, yes. Nothing is perfect. And I'm not going to lie and pretend this hotel is flawless. The price *can* fluctuate wildly, depending on the time of year. So, check the rates! And one of the elevators was a little… slow. Okay, *very* slow. But honestly, those are minor quibbles. The only real gripe I have? They didn't refill the little bottles of fancy body wash *fast enough*. (I have a problem, I know). So, you'll need to manage your fancy shower gel usage. Consider yourself warned.
Would you stay there again? Seriously? After all the gushing?
ABSOLUTELY. Without a doubt. I’m already planning my next trip. The pool, the beds, the location, the staff… it all just *worked*. After years of slogging through mediocre hotels, this place was a breath of fresh air. A (slightly overpriced) breath of fresh air, but a breath of fresh air nonetheless. It's not perfect, but it's pretty darn close. And let’s be real -- getting a decent hotel in Orlando is about as common as winning the lottery, so… yeah, I’m recommending this hotel. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm off to check flight prices... and dream about that gelato.
