You got a good rate and I think $80 dollars including tax is about all that I would spend for a room at this hotel. I stayed there in February 2004 and I used it for a one night stay before checking into the CR the next morning. IMHO, I think it's a nice hotel and while it could use some improvements like a bigger pool, it's a good deal for the price you paid. The outside of the Hotel was just painted a nice warm yellow when I was there and they finishing an upgrade/refurb of the rooms, hallways,etc when I arrived.
The room was clean, pretty big and the beds were ok, (not too soft, not too hard) and it was nice being close to DTD. At least you're inside the main gates and IMO, that's a good thing and half the battle is won. The shuttle service/buses were always comming and going to every park and it seemed like they were running on a good schedule. The pool was warm but is small and dated, it looks like it's out of the 70's which was when this resort was built. I think the hotel should think about putting in an larger, upgraded pool with some theming. It would certainly make the hotel more popular with the families that really use a hotel pool on vacation, like my family does.
I would skip the chance to upgrade to a "Disney view" because they tack on another 10 bucks a night for a view that is ok at best. The front desk will ask you right away when you're checking in, at least they did with me. As for the food choices at the resort, it's ok but I would walk or take a cab to DTD for some better choices. There's plenty of food options around the resort, so don't worry. I hoped I helped out and enjoy your stay.
