Planning surprise stay at Portofino for Hubby 50th birthday, I need help!

[louise1928]

Hey Gang,

I was going to throw my hubby a 50th birthday bash, but decided to squash that, instead, he has always wanted to stay at Portofino Bay at Universal since our 1st visit 4 years ago. I am thinking about surprising him with a 2 night stay in January.

I called the hotel, but the rates will not be out until at least August, so until then, I can buy the airline tickets, which are under $200 roundtrip right now. A 2 night stay is all my pocket can afford especially staying at Portofino, so I want this to be a nice trip.

I need some ideas to make this a very special stay for him. Can someone recommend an idea at the hotel or park???

Thanks all!!!!

 

[calgarygary]

I don't know if your budget will allow for it but how about a bd dinner at Tchoup Chop.

 

[louise1928]

I don't know if your budget will allow for it but how about a bd dinner at Tchoup Chop.

Thanks for your reply. I thought about that the dinner at Chop. I have been reading good reviews about it. Have you eaten there?? What was your experience like?? Are they fairly reasonable in price??

Thanks again

 

[calgarygary]

I have dined at both Tchoup Chop and Emeril's and TC is by far our choice of the two. It is a little pricey but gives you full value in quality, atmosphere and service - something that Emeril's fell short on during our meal there. You can get an idea about menu by visiting here. If you want to visit TC but budget is a concern, try them for lunch.

 

[louise1928]

I have dined at both Tchoup Chop and Emeril's and TC is by far our choice of the two. It is a little pricey but gives you full value in quality, atmosphere and service - something that Emeril's fell short on during our meal there. You can get an idea about menu by visiting here. If you want to visit TC but budget is a concern, try them for lunch.

Birthday Lunch is a great idea, and would be better on the wallet too

Thanks so much for the link to the menu. It looks great!!

 

[Motherfletcher]

I don't know when you are going in January but we have the week right after New Years in pretty reasonable (like maybe $169/night with Annual Pass rates).

 

[louise1928]

I don't know when you are going in January but we have the week right after New Years in pretty reasonable (like maybe $169/night with Annual Pass rates).

How did you get to book your room???? I have been trying but they keep telling me that the rates are not available yet. I don't have the annual pass, but I do have a Loews card. I am planning the weekend of Jan 9th, which is right after the holiday.

I would love to book the room now!!! that would be great!!

 

[macraven]

How did you get to book your room???? I have been trying but they keep telling me that the rates are not available yet. I don't have the annual pass, but I do have a Loews card. I am planning the weekend of Jan 9th, which is right after the holiday.

I would love to book the room now!!! that would be great!!

you book your room now and then modify the ressie when the discounts come out.

i always do that to guarantee my room.

 

[minniejack]

Personally, though I love Asian types of food, I didn't like Tchop Shop (sp?) and the waiters were rude at the other Emeril's. We were told by our driver to the hotel not to eat at the hotel because it was so pricey. However, we discovered that the price was actually cheaper especially considering that they really give you your money's worth. Unlike the Emeril restaurants where you walk away wanting to stop at the nearest concession stand. Tell him happy B-day!

 

[louise1928]

you book your room now and then modify the ressie when the discounts come out.

i always do that to guarantee my room.

I can't book a room at any rate. I was told the rates are not available yet for2009. So I just have to wait.