Friends who want to celebrate their 20th anniversary in Orlando have asked me to recommend a high end, luxury resort or hotel in or very close to Orlando. Out of state friends assume that I am an expert on that area since we live less than two hours away. However, now that our kids are older we rarely go to Orlando, and when we do, we usually stay at one of the chains.

This couple does not want to be in a conjested area and they are not interested in the theme parks. I can't quite figure out WHY then, they want to come to Orlando but to each his own.

Can anyone recommend a luxury property that might be off the beaten path or at least feel that way? I used to recommend the Villas at Grand Cypress, but when we stayed there about 18 months ago they were in dire need of a facelift.

Thanks for any help.

Jayne, I haven't stayed there but what about the new Ritz-Carlton?

I stayed at the Pacific Royal (or is it Royal Pacific??) last March and am going back this March. The hotel was wonderful! I highly recommend.

I just got back yesterday from the new Ritz and I also visited the new JW Marriott.
Both are AWESOME and just a couple of miles off International but they seem a world away.
Either of those hotels would be wonderful!!!!!

Thank you! I didn't know they'd built a Ritz in Orlando. Sounds perfect.

I've checked out the Ritz and the Royal Pacific--they both look wonderful.

TxTravelPro-there are several Marriotts and I'm not sure which is the newest--can you tell me? Thanks.

I would say the Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal is more luxurious than the Royal Pacific. I have stayed at both. The rooms at Royal Pacific are on the small side and there is nothing special about the bathrooms. On the other hand, a deluxe room at Portofino Bay is quite large and the bathroom is fabulous.

That said, I would think the new Ritz Carlton would be the real luxury choice.

Good luck!

if they arent into theme parks then I would no way recommend Royal Pacific, which is the lowest end resort in Universal.
Portofino Bay is much more luxurious, and many more amenities.

But, if they want the most luxurious expereince in Orlando - the Ritz.. deinitely

Thanks for all of your input. As it turns out we are now meeting them so I'll see for myself. I'll look into Portifino Bay, but it seems like the Ritz might be the best choice.

There is only one JW Marriott in Orlando.
It opened about 1 year ago and is just beautiful!

JW MARRIOTT ORLANDO GRANDE LAK
4040 CENTRAL FLORIDA PARKWAY
ORLANDO FL 32837
407-206-2300

So sorry to disagree...but, I think the Celebration Hotel in Celebration would thrill them. The service is superb, you areaway from the thrall of tourists, yet close to the activities , and the town is safe and accessible for their age.

We stayed in a "Portofino Suite" at the Portofino [Universal] in June. The suite was large, 950 sq. ft., and nicely furnished, and the grounds, especially the main "villa" pool, beautiful. However, we were underwhelmed by the service, which was always, always off. The kicker was housekeeping knocking on the door at 8:00 a.m. Saturday morning to make up the suite. Biggest advantage: special entry to the Universal theme park attractions. No waiting.

Try the Peabody Hotel.