A Hard Rock Virgin

[PetefromRI]

Well we just returned from our first trip to the HRH Orlando.First let me say that we are diehard Disney nuts but we decided to take a break away from the mouse and try something different.We now have a new favorite resort.We always loved the Poly but after staying at the Hard Rock we both agreed that this was the resort for us.The minute we drove in I knew we hit a homerun.We originally wanted to stay at the RPR but there were no more 3/2 deals avail.so we settled on the HRH and I'm glad we did.We toured all the resorts and although they were all nice,I believe that we picked the right one for our lifestyle.When I checked in I politely asked if there were any King bed rooms available and how much more it would cost per night.We originally booked the 2 queens in a partial view room,it was all that was available without going to crazy.The girl behind the counter said that since this was our first trip to the HR she wanted to make sure we had an awesome time and she upgraded us to a deluxe kingbed room,for free!I was totally pumped up when she said that and my wife and I were really excited when we opened the door to the room.

 

[PetefromRI]

We then headed to the parks for a few hours and then returned to explore some more.This resort has everything that we'd want,a beautiful pool area,a few good food options,and rock and roll.I have to say that the coffee shop and pool bar were quite expensive but if your ready for that you'll be O.K.
I thought that 8.00 for a virgin colada was a little much and 5.00 for a V-8 was kinda ridiculous but I guess it's what you'd call resort prices.I had breakfast at the Kitchen one morning and it was really pretty good even at 17.50.I figured that if I was going to spend 12.00 on a couple of eggs then I might as well just order the buffet.We had sushi at the RPR and it was very good.We also ate ate Tchoup Chop and we thought that it was very good.Our favorite meal of the week was over at Momma Dellas in the PBR.We laughed through the whole meal along with the singers and Momma herself.I'd also suggest Sal's for a pizza.It was very very good.We found the Latin Quarter to be somewhat of a ripoff but Marguritaville was really really good,twice!

 

[PetefromRI]

I'm really glad that we tried something different this time.We both decided that from now on we'll be splitting our vacation time between Disney and the HRH.We'd be very happy to spend a week at the Hard Rock and never go into the themeparks.Between the 3 resorts and CityWalk there are plenty of great restaurants and Jimmy Buffet's everynight.We even caught a movie one night.What a great movie theater.I think for the money,the HRH has it all,if only the weather cooperated a bit better.I just have to add one more thing.We go to Disney at least 3 times a year(well we used to until now) and even though it will always be our happy place,Disney could learn an awful lot from the employees at ,not only the Hard Rock, but from all of US employees.They all really made us feel at home and went the extra mile.

 

[tazzielou]

I agree with you. Everyone was super super nice. They all made us feel right at home. We did not get to the other resorts but I think we will try Hard Rock next. Thank you for a wonderful trip report.

 

[ckmiles]

Glad to hear you had a great time!

We will be there in Jan, and its our first trip to HRH, maybe I will ask nicely for an upgrade as well!

 

[PetefromRI]

As far as the upgrade goes,I made the point that I was willing to pay as long as it wasn't to much out of our budget.I think the resort being really slow helped out also.I just can't say enough about this place.

 

[JAL2525]

I've found everyone at universal more than willing to make your trip a trip to remember. Your right there is plenty to do right on property and no busses...

 

[macraven]

welcome to the darkside.


good to hear you enjoyed your stay at hrh at universal..

 

[Jillisa]

Sounds like you had a great time. We are staying at the HRH in January. We did Disney last week and Spring Break. I am taking my son for his 15th b-day. We went as a family Spring Break 07' (even brought the dog) and stayed at RPR. We had such a great time. This time we are trying the HRH. I can't wait! We are going for a 4 day weekend (fly in Thurs. night, leave Monday afternoon).

 

[DisneygirlTeacher]

I totally agree with you about HRH. We have always been Disney fans, however, we celebrated my daughter's 16th birthday there in September and just returned from a week over Thanksgiving break. The employees go beyond what you'd expect. We plan to go back again and again...totally enjoyed every minute!