Sheraton Vistana Villages/Resort

[Grumpy's Wife]

Can someone please tell me what the difference is between the two Sheraton properties. On the all ears net they list Sheraton Vistana Villages as one site and Sheraton Vistana Resort as another. How far away from WDW are they? Any info is greatly appreciated.

 

[spiceycat]

sheraton vistana resort is very close to WDW - about 5 minutes away.

sheraton vistana village is on International drive - so add 10 minutes

 

[MiaSRN62]

In addition to what Pat just said, Vistana Villages is newer but smaller. The main Vistana on SR 535 (very close to Downtown Disney/Marketplace) has existed since 1980. This resort has more dining options, pools and activities in general. The accomodations at the main Vistana can range from somewhat dated looking townhomes/condos built prior to 1980. Vistana bought the ground with these townhomes already existing. So you can have a wide range in villa types. From pre-1980 to about last year or so when the Cascades were completed. I've been an owner there since '94 and have stayed every year except last year (due to a family illness). So I'm assuming the Cascades construction has been completed. It was nearly in late 2002 when we were there last. Alot of people like to request the newer sections (Lakes and Cascades).
The Vistana Villages are practically brand new---more on the same level of style/decor of the Cascades at the main resort. I would think if you planned on spending more time at Universal/Sea World, the Villages would be more convenient for you. I've never stayed at them but have only read rave reviews.

 

[Grumpy's Wife]

Thanks for the info.

 

[mattr555]

We just came back from 2 weeks at the Villages and we were both very impressed. Fantastic aprtment with large screened balcony and fully equiped kitchen. location was excellent, one mile south of seaworld at the quiet end of I-drive. We found it easy and quick to get to all disney parks (via the 536 at the bottom of idrive) and the universal parks (via universal boulavard) and didnt have any problems with traffic whilst we stayed there. whilst we hired a car on the 1st day, we did try the i-ride and found that stop 46 right outside the main gate was very conviniant. the grounds are immaculate and the room cleaing is good too. didnt get stung for any undocumented costs at checkout and staff were very helpfull. despite reading many reviews who said the got hassled to attend the timeshare meetings, we did not receive a single call in 2 weeks. there is no onsite restuarant but there is a deli/shop serving takeaway meals which arent bad but you wouldnt want to live on them. they are currently building a new building but we were not disturbed by this at all. the pool has 2 water falls and the lake a large fountain and the water noise masked any buillding noises. there are 2 pools and 2 spas, plenty of sun beds as well as steam room and gym. i would definantly stay there again,

 

[Forevryoung]

what is i-ride?

 

[mattr555]

i-ride is the trolley bus system which operates the length of international drive. it is 75 cents a journey but you can by week passes (not on the buses) the buses run one every 20 mins and the drivers are very helpful with letting you know where to get off. they run from the premium outlets in the south up to belz in the north. it specifically goes to seaworld but not sure whether it goes up to universal. I still think you need a car in orlando but if you want to eat out on i-drive in the evening and have a few beers, the i-ride is great cheap option.

more info here: http://www.iridetrolley.com/ check out the map which lists which attractions/restaurants are at each stop.

 

[disney 4me2]

We own at Vistana Villages and it is very nice- However thr Vistan a Resort is also nice, just older. Vistana Villages is on the quiet end of International Drive, so no loud traffic noises, and it is very safe, with a guard at the gate. Nice Tiiki bar, good deli style food, tons of kids activities, it reminds me of a club med.If you have any specific questions about Visatna Villages, I will be glad to answer them!

 

[Goldie]

I am having difficulty deciding which my children (ages 12 and 14) would have more fun at, but having modern facilties is important too. Can you help me decide, please, between the Resort and the Villages?

Thanks!!