Orlando's Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Studios, a Loews Hotel, is indeed a slice of Italian heaven stateside. As guests step into the resort, they enter a world of luxury, romance, and adventure, where Mediterranean hospitality flourishes in Universal's artful rendition of Portofino, an Italian seaside village. With 750 rooms, 27 suites, and a host of unrivaled amenities, this resort is like an authentic Cioppini stew--it's filled with just about everything!
Along with its authentic Mediterranean exterior, Portofino Bay is operating true to its Italian roots by focusing on hospitality and world-class service, which is found in abundance throughout every nook and cranny of the resort. It's also apparent from the moment one sets foot on the grounds, as curbside check-in is the order of the day: A guest-service representative welcomes you upon arrival, handles your baggage, and promptly escorts you to your room. This handy service eliminates the customary registration stop at the front desk. And (mama mia!) if that isn't enough, butler service is also available. With this added frill (and cost), guests are greeted by a butler and served fresh-squeezed orange juice or champagne while their suitcases are unpacked for them. Then, they can choose to leave it to the butler to take care of various arrangements, such as providing theme-park tickets, making dinner reservations and spa appointments, and more. (No, butlers cannot be taken home as souvenirs!)
Once guests have settled in, they are invited to stroll through the Italian gardens that cascade onto cobblestone streets. Sidewalk cafes, quaint boutiques, and elaborately designed pools all exude the charm of a European hillside hideaway. Nestled around a small bay, you won't need your passport in this charming village resort, but you will cherish every moment of this relaxing, otherworldly oasis. But if (and that's a big if) you tire of the beautiful scenery, there are plenty of other distractions to keep one entertained, including, a 10,600-square-foot health spa, two swimming pools, two bocci ball courts, a full-service business center, and eight restaurants and lounges.
You've probably already guessed that you'll find lots of fusilli and fettuccine, pizza and pasta on Portofino's menus. In fact, the Delfino Riviera is touted as the most authentic Italian dining spot in central Florida. Here, you'll experience the true taste of Italy as strolling musicians serenade you. The Delfino Riviera cooks up culinary specialties native to the Ligurian region of Italy (where the actual fishing village of Portofino is located). Mama Della's Ristorante is another option for traditional Italian cuisine. Served family-style in big bowls, entrees are shared with the entire table--allowing you a taste of everything! Punctuated with everyday furniture and mix-and-match china, you'll feel as if you're really in Mama's home--especially when Mama makes a visit to your table, encouraging hearty appetites with a smile and a maternal nudge to "mangia, eat, eat..."
Once you're ready to work off those meatballs, there are acres of fun and fantasy to explore. That's right, Portofino is within easy walking distance of Universal Studios theme parks and attractions, including Universal Studios Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios CityWalk, a dining, entertainment, and shopping complex. As an extra perk, hotel guests receive exclusive VIP treatment, with early admission to--and no waiting in line for--rides! So hop on one of the ferryboats for a quick ride to your favorite attraction. Hotel guests also receive priority restaurant seating and special character dining opportunities at Universal Studios.
Portofino Bay offers guests more than just a place to stay, but a place to play, as well. Take, for example, the ingenious kid's suites. These fun-filled rooms are made just for kids, featuring two single beds, a pint-sized table-and-chair set, a bonus beanbag chair, and a small closet with bathrobes and hangers. Kid's suites are accessible through adjoining main rooms, allowing children privacy from grown-ups.
The adult rooms? Not bad, either: Every room offers a sense of la dolce vita! All rooms at the Portofino are spacious and luxurious with ornate period furnishings and lavish baths. Beds, adorned with plush down comforters and Egyptian cotton linens, are the perfect way to end a day of thrill-seeking adventure. For added comfort, the innovative "Smart Room" system checks on room functions, letting the hotel staff know exactly when mini-bars need to be restocked and when rooms are free to clean.
No doubt after a full day of adventure and entertainment, you'll be happy to plunk down on your plush pillows--and dream of never leaving this Italian paradise called Portofino Bay. •
