"Portofino
Bay Hotel: Italian Old World Charm Wonderfully Reproduced"
If you've ever sailed into the harbor at Portofino, Italy,
or seen a photo of that charming Italian town, you will be awestruck
by the detailed precision with which this European destination
has been recreated at Universal Orlando Resorts' Portofino
Bay Hotel, a Loews-managed luxury hotel. If you stand at the Portofino
Bay dock area, where water-taxis transport guests from the hotel
to the Universal Orlando theme park and Universal's City
Walk amusement areas, and look at the panorama of the buildings
and waterfront area created at the Loews Portofino Bay Hotel,
you will find an exact reproduction with the only missing elements
being the tree-covered hills that are part of the background scenery
in Italy! The inspiration for this unique themed resort was Steven
Spielberg who, when he was consulting with Universal Orlando on
their Jurassic Park attraction, was asked what theme he would
choose if he were building a themed hotel. Clearly, his suggestion
was taken seriously which has resulted in an incredible experience
for visitors to Orlando.
For the guest at Portofino Bay Hotel
Resort, nothing is too much for the staff to provide. The entry
area reminds the traveler of arriving at an Italian villa. The
accommodations are sumptuous; the bathrooms reflect Italian emphasis
on spacious and glamorous design. The various wings of the hotel
are created behind the façade that authentically replicates
Portofino, Italy in every aspect which is one of the reasons you
will often find guests from Italy enjoy there stay in surrounds
that make them feel very much at home.
In addition to its special concierge
lounge where you'll find free computer services available
along with your continental breakfast, midday snacks and evening
hors d'oeuvres for executive level accommodations, a swimming
pool area and spa, you'll have the convenience of a choice
of multiple bars and restaurants to choose from representing everything
from fine Italian cuisine at Bice's overlooking the picturesque
bay created as part of this idyllic setting, to casual meals to
fit every mood at their deli!
But my very favorite dining spot
at the Universal Orlando Resorts Portofino Bay Hotel is at Mama
Della's Italian Restaurant. Mama Della's is not just
a meal. . . it's an experience! There is always a feeling
of celebration in the air at Mama Della's, centrally located
in the row of shops along the bay. While the restaurant is of
substantial size to accommodate the ever-turning-over crowds,
the restaurant design creates the sense of intimate dining rooms.
From the moment you enter, you are convinced that Mama Della has
invited you “home” for dinner which is projected in
the warm hospitality that is typically associated with dinner
in an Italian home. While the menu is designed to provide you
with choices of all of your favorites, the unique element is “Mama”
herself who makes it a point to come by, give you a hug, make
sure you have everything you need and want, and checking to see
that you have enough to eat and are doing a good job eating your
meal!
As a special benefit for guests
of Portofino Bay, there is complimentary transportation by water
taxi from the bay to Universal Orlando themed attractions, Islands
of Adventure and City Walk, where you'll find the Blue Man
Group performing at its super-modern new theater. Guest room key
cards also have a magical component in that, upon presentation
at the entry to Universal Orlando attractions, guests are directed
to a special VIP entrance, by-passing lines of people waiting
to enter. And one of my favorite services for hotel guests is
that of free delivery of purchases made in shops at Universal
Orlando, Islands of Adventure and City Walk to the hotel which
eliminates carrying bundles and bags with you as you enjoy the
vast entertainment, shopping and dining experiences at Universal
Orlando. Just show your key card and your packages go from shops
to your room in a wink with a smile!
And if all of the above weren't
enough to make me fall in love with this gem, factor in that Portofino
Bay is pet-welcoming. As a member of the Loews Hotels group, Portofino
Bay offers a full variety of pet services for travelers visiting
with their four-legged furry family members.
For those who enjoy luxury
and service and have a taste for the finer things in life, a stay
at Universal Orlando Portofino Bay Hotel adds a special level
to a visit to Orlando, Florida. www.Loewshotels.com
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