Orlando, FL – Great 1st Anniversary-Cation in Paradise
For our 1 year wedding anniversary, we decided to book a 2-night (yes only 2 nights) stay at the wonderful Loews Sapphire Falls Resort next door to Universal Studios. Although it seems immense and intimidating, there is still a feeling of comfort and connection to everything at the same time. I don’t know why we haven’t chosen this place to stay all the other times we visited Orlando. The pictures on the website absolutely do not do this hotel any justice.
Immediately upon arrival to this resort, you are swept away to Paradise with a pleasant Caribbean vibe, vibrant beach decor, happy, upbeat music, an extremely friendly staff and incredible views from any window. After a quick and informative check-in with Melissa, our first stop was ‘Strong Water Tavern’, a tapas bar located directly off the lobby. (The food was very tasty but that’s another review to check out under ‘Good Eats’).
When we entered our lagoon view room, the bright colors and expansive views of the lagoon/water taxi and some of the ride at Islands of Adventure jumped right out at us. Absolutely beautiful! The room was very clean, however the lighting could have been a bit better in the bathroom sink area. The queen sized bed and pillows were super comfortable and after a full day of walking through the parks, both the husband and I slept like babies.
The pool area is one of the biggest in a resort that I’ve ever seen – complete with a water slide, cabanas with TVs and ceiling fans, a huge fire pit, palm trees galore, plenty of seating and even games for the kids. To really top off that Caribbean vibe, order your food and drinks poolside to enjoy under a swaying palm tree. There are also 2 bars serving drinks and snacks, situated on either side of the pool.
For breakfast we dined at ‘Amatista’ (on the first floor) for their wonderful buffet. I loved the decor and relaxing atmosphere where every employee was friendly and social. (You’ll find a mini review of this under ‘Good Eats’ also).
Also on the first floor is an immaculate fitness center overlooking the pool patio and a small arcade across the hall. Other few great amenities available at this resort is the water taxi on Level 1, that delivers you straight to City Walk or the chauffered limousines that quickly bring you to any of the other Universal Resorts on the property. We didn’t attempt to walk to the parks or City Walk, but there is a path available for those feeling extra adventurous.
After an efficient and pleasant check-out (I mean come on who ever wants to leave Paradise?), we already booked another trip back. Loews Sapphire Falls Resort is highly recommended!!
https://www.loewshotels.com/sapphire-falls-resort
reviewed August 2017