Tropical Casual Vibe at Sheraton Lake Buena Vista Resort

The pool deck's fire pit and 27 Palms Grill, Sheraton Lake Buena Vista Resort

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After a $25 million transformation, the Sheraton Lake Buena Vista Resort is sparkling new. The lobby’s décor is laden with rich wood; the long communal table for guests to sit at with a USA Today and a Starbucks’ latte from the Springboard Marketplace, welcomes you to do just that.

There’s a casual tropical vibe at this Starwood property, and it’s carried throughout with a palms thematic — at the Top of the Palms Spa and the 27 Palms Pool Club deck, which is dotted with the namesake trees. Pools on property include the Beach, a zero-entry design, and the Falls, with a 79-foot water slide. Guest rooms have touches that reflect the Sunshine State; gracing the walls are a chic flamingo print and a color-packed state map. There are 90 junior suites that are designed for families and 48 incorporate bunk beds for the kids (night lights are built-in), plus a private master bedroom for Mom and Dad.

After checking in at the Top of the Palms spa on the sixth floor, I got comfy with a warm neck pillow and a cup of coconut-infused tea. Then I met Bonnie, who was on vacation from Chicago. She had a massage, a body wrap and a facial — and spent the better part of the day being self-indulgent. She was glowing. After my Palm Radiant Facial, I thought Bonnie had the right idea, especially as I relaxed in the quiet room, sipped coconut water and munched on coconut malted milk balls. Nice!

I wrapped up the evening with dinner at Zest, fully appreciating the renovated property and its offerings in between bites of a macadamia-crusted grouper filet with Meyer lemon risotto, tangerine beurre blanc and steamed broccolini.

Tags: 27 Palms Grill | Sheraton Lake Buena Vista Resort | Springboard Marketplace | Starwood | Top of the Palms spa | Zest