I'm looking for advice on vacation villa rental locations in Orlando. We're travelling with a large(ish) group next year and don't plan to drive. We've had success using Uber for the past few years during previous trips while staying on International Drive, and we’d like to continue that.
We're looking for a reasonably modern villa, ideally with a south- or west-facing pool. We've narrowed our choices down to Storey Lake, Windsor Hills, and Villatel. However, I’ve come across mixed reviews about Storey Lake, noting issues with doors not locking and insufficient hot water. Additionally, I've heard that properties in Windsor Hills are reportedly outdated and that accessing them via Uber can be difficult.
We are not looking for perfection, but we don't want the hassle of dealing with material property issues. What are people's opinions on staying in these resorts? How accessible are the properties for Uber drivers?
When it comes to vacation villas in Orlando, especially for a large group and with a focus on using Uber for transportation, there are a few factors to consider. Storey Lake, Windsor Hills, and Villatel all offer different experiences, and it's great that you have narrowed down your options. Here’s an overview of each, based on your concerns:
Storey Lake: Storey Lake is relatively new, offering modern villas with amenities like a south- or west-facing pool, which is ideal for enjoying the Florida sun. The resort is well-situated near many attractions, making it a good choice for families. However, as you mentioned, some mixed reviews mention maintenance issues like doors not locking or hot water shortages. While this is not common, it’s always a good idea to confirm with the property owner or management team about the specific villa you are considering.
Windsor Hills: Windsor Hills is a well-established resort, popular for families visiting Orlando, offering large villas with private pools. While it’s known for its spacious accommodations, some reviews mention that some of the properties are starting to show their age. Additionally, the layout of the community may make it harder for Uber drivers to find your exact villa quickly, especially in the more spread-out areas.
Villatel: Villatel offers high-end, modern villas with luxury finishes. It’s an upscale option that seems to be well-maintained, with villas that are more contemporary than Windsor Hills. The community is generally quieter, and the villas tend to be more spacious. One thing to consider is that Villatel properties can be a bit farther from some of the popular attractions compared to Windsor Hills or Storey Lake.
Recommendation: If Uber accessibility is your top priority, both Storey Lake and Windsor Hills are generally good options, with Windsor Hills being a bit trickier due to the layout of the community. However, if you want newer, more modern properties and better amenities, Storey Lake is likely a better choice—just be sure to check for any potential maintenance issues. Villatel offers a more luxurious option, but it may be slightly less convenient in terms of Uber access and proximity to attractions.
Ultimately, if you’re okay with a slightly older property, Windsor Hills offers good value and space. If you prioritize modern amenities and a newer community, Storey Lake is worth considering, just double-check the specifics of your villa. Villatel is the best option if luxury and quiet are more important than convenience to major attractions.