Vistana Village/Resort

[Greenmom]

After a lot of reading, I'm not sure I know the difference between Vistana Villages and Vistana Resort. Is one better than the other? Or could someone just tell me the pro/cons of each. Thanks so much.

 

[talicskai]

We have stayed at both a few times and are going back to the Villages in about 6 weeks!

Vistana Resort is about 20 years old and is huge! There are about 7-8 different "areas" within it and some are older and need refurbishment and others are brand new and beautiful. My family has time share at the Resort and it has always felt like home to me because I have been going there for so long. There are about 7 pools, mini-golf, Pizza Hut express, great walking/jogging areas and several hot tubs. It is literally about 6 minutes to Disney from here - you can't beat the location - you are about 3 minutes to Downtown Disney and there are restaurants and shopping galore in the area.

Vistana Village is on International Drive South - around the corner from Sea World. Their location is also great and still only 10 minutes to Disney. It is only about 3-4 years old and gorgeous. The only thing I find is that the vegetation is not mature, therefore there is not as much shade as at the Resort and there is constantly construction going on. They are building new "phases" all the time. The units are nicer than my house and the pool and landscaping is beautiful.

We are happy at both locations but chose this one because of its proximity to SeaWorld as we plan to spend some time there this trip. If you are used to brand new surroundings and prefer that then you may want to go with the Villages. PM if you want any more info.

Teresa

 

[bajanswife]

Teresa:

Which of the two would you say is more suitable and interesting for small children - like ages 4 to 7? We are planning an RCI exchange for 2 weeks and will have lots of pool and playground time. At the Resort I can see some walking involved if our condo is not close to the good kiddie pools etc. But what are the kiddie pools and playgrounds like at the Villages? I got the impression that complex was much smaller and maybe didn't have as many things to do.

 

[spiceycat]

I would go with the Resort - you have a better chance of getting it.

plus your kids will want to swim in all 7 pools....

 

[jeff968]

Teresa:

Which of the two would you say is more suitable and interesting for small children - like ages 4 to 7?

I have stayed at both. I like the villages better but if you are looking for things like programs for your small children the resort might actually be better as there are more guests and they'll have a better kids program.

 

[talicskai]

Teresa:

Which of the two would you say is more suitable and interesting for small children - like ages 4 to 7? We are planning an RCI exchange for 2 weeks and will have lots of pool and playground time. At the Resort I can see some walking involved if our condo is not close to the good kiddie pools etc. But what are the kiddie pools and playgrounds like at the Villages? I got the impression that complex was much smaller and maybe didn't have as many things to do.

I would have to the Resort has more to offer for young children. My parents own in the Fountains and Cascades sections but I prefer Fountains. The pool at the Lakes (close to Fountains) is a zero entry pool and great for small kids. There is a playground, daycare, lots of pools and awesome kids activities. My kids are 5 and 7 but we are staying at the Villages this year. I know that they will love it, but it isn't as big as the Resort. Sometimes that can be a good thing though.

Have fun!
Teresa