Marriott's Grande Vista

Even though my room was all the way at the end and I arrived late, tired and rumpled from a day of travel, check-in was easy. When I couldn't get into the room, security arrived quickly and were very kind and helpful. The room was lovely, bright and airy, with a balcony and an incredible shower. It's a gorgeous property, and the housekeepers, maintenance crews and landscapers keep it up constantly. I'd absolutely stay again.

The location off I-Drive is handy, close to Sea World, and there was zero road noise at night. The place is nice, but it doesn't quite feel like a five-star resort. Food and drinks on site cost quite a bit, and parking over $30 a day feels like another way to squeeze out a few more bucks. They also give you the “owner” sales pitch and presentation. It's easy to decline, but it's still there. The walls seemed thin. There was roof construction on our building while we were there. It wasn't a huge deal, and I know maintenance has to happen sometime, but I don't understand why they couldn't put us in one of their other 12 buildings. One fountain light never worked, and moss clouded the view from our window. Not sure I'd come back here.

We paid for four nights but left after two. I don't need a refund, but an apology would've been nice. The smell has branded itself onto my soul. I felt sorry for the staff, since I don't think anyone likes working at this resort. I didn't feel sorry for the cleaner who left a steamy surprise behind. When you have to go, you have to go, but clean up afterward.

The property has several buildings around a golf course and a large lake. Our room was roomy, with a small kitchen: refrigerator, microwave and sink. Laundry was free, as was the laundry soap, and they supplied odds and ends for the kitchen like paper towels. Parking was quoted at $30 a day. There are a few small pools around the grounds for a quieter swim, plus a central, larger resort-style pool with food and a bar beside it. The medium-sized gym had modern equipment and was well kept, though busy in the late morning when I went. Staff were friendly, sometimes in a slightly robotic way, but nice. I believe it's a Marriott timeshare property that also operates as a hotel. Nobody tried to sell us a timeshare, so I wouldn't worry about staying here just as a hotel. I'd recommend it and come back.