My family of 3 just got back from our first visit to Universal. We stayed at the Hard Rock Hotel. My impressions are as follows:Hotel was great and everything from check-in to check-out went very smoothly. We had a garden view room(AAA rate of $145) and were happy. If I had one criticism it is that while the pool is great I wish is had a deep section for lap swimming. Self parking is now $6 a day. I asked for an upgrade but hotel was filled. We were allowed to check-in at noon which was nice.
Location can't be beat. Express access is all everyone says and more. We were there during Winter break and never waited more than 10 minutes for anything and usually not more than 2 minutes. We had the 7 day for less than the price of 2 days deal and it was great. We would spend 2 or 3 hours in the morning and then do other things.
Express access did not help much at restuarants at City Walk. If you got there after 6 then you waited at least 30 minutes . The first day there, one of the cashiers at the parks told us that AAA members get a 10% discount at just about everywhere but they don't ask so make sure you tell them.
If you enjoy thrill rides do Universal first and then do IOA or you will feel a letdown. Thanks to everyone who answered my questions, which was very helpful. I hope this info helps others who will be going.
