Summer Getaway: Marriott World Center Orlando!

Marriott World Center Orlando Pool Complex

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It’s officially summertime and a recent stay at the Marriott World Center in Orlando (only 1.5 miles from Walt Disney World and just minutes from Universal Studios Orlando) epitomizes what a great destination Florida is during the summer months. It’s a heck of a lot less crowded then in our high season and there are tons of deals to be had all over the state! So here’s a thought, weigh your options ... then make Florida your summer getaway destination! Choose a hotel/resort that fits your lifestyle. For me, a fabulous pool area is a must.

After a day at the theme parks (I’m nuts about the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal’s Islands of Adventure and I’m a huge fan of Epcot’s International Pavilions), I find the ambience at this hotel perfect for winding down. The Marriott World Center has become a particular favorite of mine not just because of its location, but it has the High Velocity sports bar — on my last visit I caught game five of the Stanley Cup playoffs — along with an Orlando Brewing pale ale. But it’s also got a primo swimming pool area that can’t be beat. Here’s why: There's a lagoon-like setting that’s a full-out complex composed of six pools with amazing cascading rock/cavernous waterfalls plus there's a 106-foot curvy waterslide and even whirlpools! And there's more. A tiki bar is situated above the pool area adjacent to all the people-watching action, so you won’t miss a thing.

For more on great resorts/hotels with must pool areas, look for the FT+L July/August issue.

Tags: Disney | Epcot | Islands of Adventure | Marriott World Center | orlando | summer deals | swimming pools | Universal | Wizarding World of Harry Potter