MELIA ORLANDO Orlando (FL) United States

Orlando's BEST Kept Secret: Melia Orlando Resort Unveiled!

Orlando's BEST Kept Secret: Melia Orlando Resort Unveiled! – Let's Get Real, Folks!

Alright, listen up, weary travelers! You're tired of the cookie-cutter Orlando experience, yeah? The endless lines, the plastic smiles, the feeling that you're just another… well, another body being processed through the theme park machine? Fear not! There's a secret, a hidden gem, a… gasp… Melia Orlando Resort! And after battling traffic, wrangling kids, and surviving the theme park frenzy, I'm here to tell you – it’s a freaking oasis.

(Disclaimer: this isn't a sponsored post. I paid my own hard-earned cash to experience this, and these are my raw, unfiltered thoughts.)

First Impressions & Accessibility: The Good, the Great, and the “Could Be Better”

Pulling up, first thing you notice is… it’s tasteful. Not garish, not over-the-top Disney-fied. Just… nice. The exterior already feels like a breath of fresh air. Regarding Accessibility, they mostly nail it. Wheelchair accessible rooms are definitely an option, and they seem genuinely committed to accommodating guests. Elevators are plentiful (a lifesaver after a long day of… well, life!). However, navigating the walkways could be improved. Some ramps felt a little steep. I would’ve preferred they were gradual.

Now, for all you internet junkies out there – Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Yesssss! Crucial for sending those "I'm alive!" texts back home (because who doesn't want to boast about escaping the toddler vortex?). And it's surprisingly good Wi-Fi, which is a huge bonus. Forget buffering; it's stream-your-heart-out-until-4am good. The Internet [LAN] option is there if you’re old school. Internet services overall are solid, but, yeah, let's get to the elephant in the room, the lack of Wi-Fi in public areas. A bit of a disconnect here, guys.

Rooms: Sanctuary from the Chaos (mostly!)

Okay, the rooms themselves? Solid. Not over-the-moon, but comfortable and designed with actual thought. Air conditioning is a must in Orlando, and it works like a charm. Blackout curtains? Bless you – sleep is precious currency. Bathrobes and slippers? Fancy! (Even though I felt a little silly wearing them… I’m no celebrity!) Complimentary tea and coffee/tea maker in the rooms? Winner! Because dragging yourself down for coffee before you're even human is a special kind of torture. And the mini bar is there and tempting!

I have to be honest, the soundproofing could use some work. You'll get the usual background noise, but thankfully, not too extreme. The bed was extremely comfortable, with crisp linens. And a desk, plus a well-lit laptop workspace, perfect for catching up on emails… or, you know, pretending to catch up on emails while scrolling Instagram.

One weird thing: I had to call maintenance for the hair dryer. They came, so, thumbs up. But one less thing to worry about.

Things to Do & How to Actually Relax: Spa Days and Poolside Bliss

Let's be real: you're there to escape, right? Melia Orlando gets that. They have a fantastic Swimming pool that is absolutely gorgeous. And a Pool with a view? Oh, yeah. Grab a cocktail from the Poolside bar (more on that later!), and you're instantly transported. Sun, water, a book… pure bliss.

Now, let me tell you about the Spa. Oh, the Spa. I splurged on a Body scrub and massage. And, friends, It’s not an overstatement to say I nearly wept with relief. The therapist was amazing. I’m talking magic hands. Seriously, my shoulders felt like they were finally unknotting after years of stress. Sauna, Steamroom? Yep, they're there. It's a full-fledged Spa/sauna experience. Unfortunately, I didn't experience their Body wrap or Foot bath. But based on my experience, I think they'd be just as good, I'd say.

The Fitness center deserves a shout-out. It's well-equipped and surprisingly spacious, perfect for working off all those poolside cocktails.

Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Food Glorious Food (Mostly!)

Okay, the dining is where Melia really shines. First of all, there is the Breakfast [buffet]. It's good, but not earth-shattering. Asian Cuisine in restaurant is there too! But what about Asian breakfast? I'm not a breakfast buff, sorry.

The restaurants in general are top-notch. The a la carte in restaurant is good! They also provide tasty Desserts in restaurant. You can grab a Snack bar snack, or a Soup in restaurant. The Poolside bar (mentioned earlier) is the real star. The Happy hour is a must-do, and the cocktails… oh, the cocktails. Delicious, refreshing, and potent enough to erase the memory of screaming children (at least for a little while). Coffee/tea in restaurant? Yes. Bottle of water is a standard offering.

There's also Room service [24-hour], which is a lifesaver when you're too lazy to leave your room. I, erm, may have taken advantage of that more than once.

Cleanliness & Safety: Because Germs Are Not a Vacation Souvenir

In the wake of… well, everything… Cleanliness and safety are paramount. I was relieved to see extensive measures in place. Anti-viral cleaning products? Check. Daily disinfection in common areas? Yep. Hand sanitizer everywhere? You betcha. Individually-wrapped food options? Present and accounted for. They're taking this super seriously, and that’s reassuring. Sanitized kitchen and tableware items. Rooms sanitized between stays too.

Services and Conveniences: Little Things That Make a Big Difference

Doorman. Concierge. Daily housekeeping. Standard, but appreciated. The Concierge was particularly helpful with dinner recommendations. Laundry service? Essential when you’re traveling with kids and their never-ending wardrobe of… well, I can't talk about it. Cash withdrawal is easy with the ATM. Elevator? Essential. Luggage storage. You got it. Dry cleaning.

For the Kids (and the Kid in You!)

Okay, let’s get real. Orlando is for kids, right? Melia Orlando is Family/child friendly, but not overwhelmingly so. They have Babysitting service which can be a godsend.

Getting Around: Easy Peasy (Mostly)

They offer Airport transfer, which is convenient. The Hotel also offers Car park [free of charge], and Car park [on-site]. Very convenient. There is also Taxi service, and even Valet parking.

The Verdict: Worth the Unveiling?

Absolutely. If you're tired of the same old Orlando grind, if you crave a little bit of peace, a little bit of luxury, and a whole lot of relaxation, Melia Orlando Resort is your secret weapon. It's not perfect, (no place is!), but its flaws are easily forgiven for its charm, its commitment to service, and its overall ability to make you feel like you're actually on vacation.

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MELIA ORLANDO Orlando (FL) United States

Okay, buckle up, buttercup. This isn't your average, perfectly-polished travel itinerary. This is a MELIA Orlando survival guide, written by someone who thrives on chaos (and caffeine). And yes, I’m including the “minor categories” because, frankly, they're the real stuff.

MELIA ORLANDO - Operation Sunshine & Shenanigans (A Messy-Brain's Guide)

Day 1: Arrival & The Glorious Struggle

10:00 AM - Orlando International Airport (MCO) - The Gauntlet: Okay, first hurdle. Avoid eye contact with the aggressive timeshare vultures. Seriously, they're like Disney villains, but they want your money instead of your kingdom. Find the shuttle to Melia. Hopefully, the driver is less grumpy than I am pre-coffee.
11:30 AM - Melia Orlando Check-In: A Symphony of Exhaustion: This is where things get real. Hopefully, the check-in process isn’t a total cluster. Last time, I swear, it took longer to get a room than building the Pyramids. (Yes, I’m dramatic). Pray for a room upgrade. I'm a sucker for a balcony.
12:30 PM - Room Reconnaissance & The Luggage Massacre: Dump luggage (hopefully, the bellhop is a superhero, as I always overpack). Do a quick room scan for lurking dust bunnies. Essential. Then, collapse on the bed. Ahhhhh. The sweet, sweet nectar of a hotel bed.
1:30 PM - Lunch at a Hotel Resort Restaurant or a local spot: Okay, first, breathe. Now, food. It’s Orlando, so options are plentiful. If I’m feeling lazy, the hotel restaurant it is (convenience often trumps culinary genius on day one). If the hunger pangs are ferocious, I would prefer to go out for some local burger and beer. Do not order a salad on the first day. That is a rookie mistake.
3:00 PM - Pool Reconnaissance - The Sun Demon Arrives: Time for the pool, people! Sunscreen: check. Hat: check. Sunglasses: double-check. The sun in Florida is not to be trifled with. Find a comfy lounger. Read a book (or doomscroll on your phone. No judgment here). Take a nap. Repeat as needed.
7:00 PM - Dinner – A Culinary Roulette: What do I even want to eat? This is the eternal travel question. Italian? Steak? Something vaguely healthy to counteract the impending sugar rush from the Disney parks? I will likely procrastinate and order room service. I am, after all, on vacation.
8:00 PM - Bar Hop Or Chill: Do I feel chatty, or do I want to collapse in a heap on the bed? Decisions, decisions. The Melia's bar is an option. People-watching is always entertaining. Or, you know, Netflix and chill. No shame.

Day 2: Disney! (Or at least, the anticipation of Disney)

8:00 AM - Breakfast – The Morning Ritual: Breakfast buffets are amazing. I'm talking a sugar high to last all day. Fill up. We need energy to survive the Disney chaos.
9:00 AM - Park Prep or Pool: Get ready for the real reason we are here. This is the day that will determine if I want to live in Orlando or never return. Park Tickets and reservations. Or lounge by the pool, read a book, pretend the world doesn't move.
11:00 PM - Lunch at a Restaurant: Okay, I will go for lunch and go back to the hotel to rest for a bit.
2:00 PM - Rest by the Pool: Seriously. Nap time. Sunshine + pool sounds incredible.
4:00 PM - Dinner: Dinner at one of the delicious restaurant nearby the hotel.
5:00 PM - Rest or Go out for a walk. Relax.

Day 3: Local Exploration & Shenanigans (Because, you know, Balance)

9:00 AM - Late Start: Because you can. Because you should. Wake up from a nice long sleep.
10:00 AM - Breakfast (Again!): Maybe I’ll feel a little adventurous and go down to the hotel's restaurant to see what is going on there.
11:00 AM - Explore Orlando: I hate the parks, I want to do something different like the other side of life. I want to visit the shopping malls or places to eat.
1:00 PM - Lunch at a Restaurant: Eat and enjoy.
2:00 PM - Pool Time: I want to relax again.
4:00 PM - Prepare for the trip back home: I feel sad.
6:00 PM - Grab something delicious: Enjoy some nice food,
7:00 PM - Good bye, Orlando: I am happy and sad at the same time

The "Important" Minor Categories:

Packing: Overpack. Always. "But what if I need… this?" Yep, pack it.
Budget: Try to stick to it. (I said try).
Souvenirs: Buy the thing that makes you smile. Don't worry about practicality.
Transportation: Uber. Lyft. Shuttles. Whatever gets you where you're going while minimizing the stress (or, you know, being slightly less stressed).
Emergency Contacts: Write them down. (I forget things, I’m human, ok?).
Important Documents: Passport? Driver's license? Hotel confirmation? Put these and other important documents in a safe place.

Final Thoughts:

This is your trip. Do what you want. Don't let the 'perfect vacation' pressure get to you. Embrace the chaos. Embrace the mistakes. Embrace the fact that you're probably going to get a sunburn. It’s all part of the adventure. Have fun and enjoy yourself!

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MELIA ORLANDO Orlando (FL) United States

Melia Orlando Resort: The Unofficial, Probably-Not-So-Secret Guide

Okay, So... Melia Orlando? What IS it? Is it, like, actually a secret?

Alright, alright, let's get one thing straight. "Secret" might be pushing it. More like... a hidden gem, maybe? I mean, it's not plastered all over the billboards the way Mickey Mouse is. It's a seriously swanky resort near Disney World, but not *on* Disney property. Think less "cattle call" and more "breezy oasis." I stumbled upon it randomly, honestly! Was looking for something *not* Disney-crazed, and BAM! Melia popped up. My inner peace-seeker gave a little squeal of joy.

Seriously though, what's the vibe? Are we talking stuffy hotel or chill vacation mode?

Okay, the vibe. It's... adaptable. During the day, poolside is where it's at. Picture this: me, sprawled on a lounger, cocktail in hand (more about *that* later), sun baking my pasty skin. No complaints there. Things get a little more upscale at night, especially if you hit up one of the restaurants. But even then, it's not pretentious. I saw a family roll in looking slightly disheveled, kids running around, and they were just as welcomed as the perfectly coiffed couples. HUGE point for them. Seriously, that speaks volumes.

The Pool(s)... Spill the beans. They good?

GOOD?! They are *glorious*. I'm not kidding. HUGE, multiple pools. One with a splash pad for the little ones, which, let's be honest, I was mildly fascinated by, even without kids. There’s a quieter pool, a bustling pool, and they *get* the importance of poolside bars. Like, actually good poolside bars. Not just watered-down nonsense pretending to be a margarita. I'm getting thirsty just thinking about it. One time, I spent an entire afternoon just… floating. No regrets. Zero. Best nap of my *life*.

Food! Give me the lowdown. Worth the calories?

Okay, the food. Mixed bag, I'd say. Definitely some hits, some *meh*. The breakfast buffet? Solid. They have those mini-omelet stations, which is always a win in my book. Ate way too much bacon, and I'm not even sorry. Dinner at Cilantro’s, the Mexican place, was fantastic. Those margaritas… oh boy. Let's just say my memories of the first night are a little… hazy. And one night, I tried room service, and honestly? Skip it. Expensive and nothing special. But overall? Plenty of good options. You'll find *something* you love. Seriously, just load up on the breakfast bacon.

Location, Location, Location! How's the access to the parks and everything?

The location is A+. It's practically *right there* near Disney. Like, minutes away. They have a shuttle, which is super convenient. But, and this is a big but, it's not *on* Disney property. This is a *huge* win if you need a break from the Disney madness. Trust me, after a day of character meet-and-greets and screaming toddlers, you'll want a serene pool, a nice cocktail, and a non-Disney bubble. The Melia delivers that in spades.

What about the rooms? Are they nice? Clean? What’s the deal?

Rooms? Yes! They are very nice. And clean! I tend to judge a place harshly based on cleanliness, and the Melia passed with flying colors. Spacious, comfortable beds — which is crucial after a long day of walking (or, you know, pool lounging). Nice balconies too. And the bathrooms! Modern, well-lit. My only weird complaint? The lighting, which was… a little dim, but I am guessing that was their intention of creating ambiance. Overall, definitely a comfortable place to crash after you've had your fill of sun and fun.

Any downsides? Anything you didn't love?

Okay, honest moment. The prices, from the restaurants to the occasional add-on, are a little high. It's not a *cheap* vacation, let's be clear. And sometimes the service felt a tad slow, especially during peak hours. But hey, I'm on vacation! I'm in no rush. And if I'm real picky? The music at the pool could get a little repetitive. But hey, this is me nitpicking. It's still a fantastic escape.

Worth the hype? Would you go back?

Absolutely. One thousand percent. I keep checking the Melia website for deals. The combination of location, pool, and relaxed vibe is unbeatable. I’m a sucker for a good vacation experience which makes the whole thing even better. Yes, there were a few minor hiccups, but the pros far outweigh the cons. If you're looking for a Disney-adjacent vacation that actually feels like a vacation? Go. Book it. Seriously, what are you waiting for? Just don't tell *everyone* about it, yeah? ;)

So, you mentioned those margaritas… tell me everything… really… everything…

Okay, fine. You twisted my arm. The margaritas at Cilantro’s… were a *revelation*. I'm not a margarita aficionado, by any stretch of the imagination, but these were… different. Perfect balance of tequila, lime, and whatever other magic they were using. I'm pretty sure they were top-shelf, because the next morning I'm pretty sure I saw a small bird perched on my head, but hey, it could've been the Florida sun! They were strong, yes, but also flavorful. Not just a sugary concoction. I had two the first night. Maybe three. I *think* I even tried to order one in Spanish? My attempts were beyond pathetic, I am sure! The point is... I could easily see myself returning *just* for those margaritas. And the chips with that salsa… Oh, mama. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I think I need a little…reminiscing…