I haven't stayled at a value resort, so I can't compare directly, but I did stay at Coronado Springs in December, 2003. I don't know if I would recommend it specifically as it is a convention resort (which really doesn't affect anything except restaurants and convention facilities), although my stay was pleasant. Here's the information:
I stayed in Cabanas 8B, which was near a quiet pool and laundry facilities. The laundry room had 10 regular agitator-type washers and 2 "double load" (their term, not mine) front load washers, with 2 dryers per washer. The facility was spartan, but neat and clean. All washers are $2 per load, and dryers are $2 per 30 minutes. I took my own laundry products and did not pay attention to the prices in the vending machines.
This group of rooms is near Bus Stop 4, which was fine during my stay. It is the final stop, so if you have a large group or want to be certain of a seat during peak times, it might be a good idea to hike to the lobby (Bus Stop 1).
Most of the convention attendees are in the Casitas, which is adjacent to the convention center. Ranchos, which is a southwestern theme, is the third section. All have their own quiet pool (Casitas may have more than one) and laundry facilities.
The main pool is at The Dig, which also has a toddler pool with fountain and Dig Site, which is a sandy play area. I didn't pay too much attention to it, since swimming on holiday isn't important to me (I swim most of the year at home). Bicycles and watercraft are available for rent.
The rooms are a bit larger than the value resorts. The main disadvantage at CSR would be one sink in the vanity instead of two, which I believe the other moderates have. All of the moderates have a four-cup coffeemaker.
A couple of very nice things about the moderates (may also be in value resorts, but can't confirm as I haven't stayed there):
Curtain between dressing/vanity area and bedroom can be drawn if some people are sleeping. Bathroom has a tiled area at rear of tub for toiletries and a retractable clothes line over the tub. Probably would not hold heavy, soaking wet jeans, but would be fine for swimsuits and lighter items.
The armoire has three huge drawers, plus shelf space. There are two closet rods, with space on the floor for luggage, and there is an area outside the vanity/dressing area where additional luggage or sports equipment could be stored without tripping over it (Empty luggage also be stored in luggage room, if necessary. Don't lose your claim check!).
I wasn't crazy about the food at Pepper Market, but I'm an extremely picky eater. Service was terrific, though, and all of the CMs very nice. I think the reviews I've read about the food court at POR sound better. According to the same reviews, the food court at CBR tends to be too small for the size of the resort during peak periods.
Hope this helps!
Taja
