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Finding Romance at Universal OrlandoDespite its fun reputation, it's easy to create sweet, romantic memories.Valentine's Day is approaching and you're due for a well-earned vacation. Or you’re making plans for your honeymoon. You're looking for romance, but you want to have fun without getting caught up in the stroller brigade. Look no further than Universal Orlando and its trio of resorts. According to Seth Kubersky and Kelly Monaghan, authors of Universal Orlando 2011: The Ultimate Guide to the Ultimate Theme Park Adventure (Intrepid Traveler, $15.95), “Whereas Disney World is perceived by many as a kiddie park that adults will enjoy, they [visitors] see Universal as a park conceived with grown-ups in mind.” Keep in mind, however, that fun at Universal Orlando is often equated with cheerfully loud and boisterous, cautions Monaghan. The three Loews resorts – Portofino Bay, Hard Rock Hotel and Royal Pacific – have the obvious advantage of being close to the park and offer perks such as early entry into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and priority access. However, they are also perfect settings for creating happy honeymoon memories, and you can save a few bucks if you book a package through a travel agent, are a member of AAA, stay off-season, or purchase an annual pass. Portofino Bay has the honor of being the priciest resort, but how often do you go on a honeymoon? Modeled after the Ligurian, Italy, fishing village, the resort is a well-done replica with its trompe l’oeil finishes and lavish appointments. Even the more modest rooms are pretty special, state the authors, and there is a level of service that makes the average guest feel pampered. Beach Pool rooms offer a view of the beautiful Florida sunsets and some have balconies for romantic alfresco dining (there is 24-hour room service). However, if you’re seeking serenity book a room that looks out onto the elegant Villa Pool in the Villa Wing. “The Villa Pool itself is romantic,” says Monaghan, “and the whirlpools are also a nice romantic attraction.” His and her massages on heated masseuse tables can be booked at the Mandara Spa as part of the array of luxurious self-care packages. Guests at the Hard Rock Hotel and Royal Pacific Resort also have access to the Mandara Spa. In terms of romantic dining, Bice, which overlooks the Bay, is elegant and formal, but pricey and more than a bit noisy. Honeymooners might want to seek out Mama Della’s Ristorante, with its cozy country theme and strolling singers offering popular Italian songs. For a nightcap, check out Bar American, a posh formal bar off the main lobby. There are also several places where you can bring back food to dine a deux. The water taxi from Universal back to Portofino at night is intimate as is strolling from Portofino through the Hard Rock Hotel to City Walk. The Hard Rock Hotel is flamboyant, but surprisingly elegant, according to the authors. However, its rock and roll theme conveys an atmosphere that’s anything but subdued and intimate. You’ll have to steal your intimate moments here and there: book a cabana, where you can hang out for the day with a television, fridge, fresh water and fruit, towels and soft drinks; or do a late-night run to the heated Jacuzzi. Described as a “noisy, boisterous steakhouse,” Palm Restaurant is pegged at a “bare minimum of $60 per person” for a meal. It’s in keeping with the loud rock and roll theme, so if you’re looking for a quiet table, say the authors, look elsewhere. The Kitchen might be more wallet friendly and somewhat more eclectic. If you’re looking for a romantic dining experience, Kubersky suggests Pat O’Brien’s back patio with its flaming fountains in CityWalk. Pat O’Brien’s itself is a recreation of the Big Easy icon, featuring dueling pianos in The Piano Bar, jukeboxes and a large screen projection TV, and private party rooms upstairs – there’s a narrow balcony overlooking the Promenade where you can steal a few moments to sip a drink (the Hurricane has made the place famous) and survey the passing scene. The food is Creole- and French-inspired, like the New Orleans namesake, with a casual presentation and moderate prices. Another CityWalk restaurant recommended by Kubersky is Emeril’s Restaurant Orlando, which also has a Big Easy theme. Again, this is not a quiet, intimate place to dine, but it’s a first class experience and the cuisine is fun and festive. If you’re set on dining here, don’t be afraid the make reservations when you’re planning your wedding – Emeril’s takes reservations six months in advance. For the wedding blow-out of a lifetime, the Royal Pacific Resort is at the top of the list; such events are its specialty. Your plans can be accommodated whether you’re looking for large scale or intimate gathering. The resort’s tropical paradise theme is inspired by Indonesia and Fiji in the 1930s, and the amenities are state of the art. For those looking for a romantic escape, the Royal Pacific beach is recommended, plus the gorgeous lobby (the authors’ favorite of the three resorts) with its abundant palms has plenty of places for a quiet chat. Tchoup Chop at Royal Pacific Resort is another Emeril-themed creation with cuisine inspired by the Polynesian islands and Asian cooking techniques, and based on seasonal availability of fish and produce. The atmosphere is described as vibrant and soothing; if it’s too vibrant, consider the small outdoor “tiki bar,” where you can order the cocktails and from the menu inside. As with CityWalk’s Emeril’s, you’ll need to make reservations well in advance. Within Universal Orlando itself, there are various park-like areas, such as the park between Hollywood and World Expo, where you can rest and recharge, and steal a few special moments with your honey. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is also enchanting at night. The way the park was designed, most of the “islands” have areas that are away from the main pathways and provide wonderful views and a break from the madding crowds. According to the authors, “They are surprisingly private and quite romantic places to snuggle up with that special someone.” To order Universal Orlando 2011: The Ultimate Guide to the Theme Park Adventure, click here. 302 pages • 6 in. x 9 in. |
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