Location. The stately Ritz Carlton Orlando (Fla.) rests on a 500 acre oasis embedded with lush tropical gardens and Shingle Creek, the headwaters to the Florida Everglades. The resort is two miles from SeaWorld, within four miles of the Orange County Convention Center and seven miles from Universal Orlando and Mall at Millennia. Walt Disney World and Orlando International Airport are 10 miles away.
Hotel Features. Beveled ceilings, thriving plants, large easy chairs and regal columns greet guests as they enter the hotel lobby. Guests are treated to a Greg Norman designed 18 hole championship golf course, three lighted tennis courts, a fitness center, jogging trails and a life size chess board. Large fish fountains send a steady stream of water into the outdoor heated pool, which is accented by blue and white striped lounge chairs. Guests can relax in the spa tub or float along the Lazy River. The 40,000 square foot spa features signature citrus treatments, including the Tuscan Citrus Cure. Vitale, the spa café, features smoothies and mouthwatering salads. Additional dining options include Norman's, which serves Latin Caribbean fusion cuisine, a steakhouse, golf clubhouse restaurant and poolside bar.

The Ritz Carlton Orlando offers more than 33,000 square feet of meeting space, from the opulent ballroom to outdoor function space. For younger guests, the Ritz Kids program features activities including dive in movie pool parties.

Guestrooms. Luxurious guestrooms offer bathrooms with double sinks and marble flooring, hand painted Italian furnishings, private balconies and Bvlgari bathroom amenities. Daily housekeeping and evening turndown service are available. In room safes (accommodates laptop), terrycloth bathrobes and slippers, flat screen televisions, and computer and fax connections are featured. Wireless and wired Internet access is available (surcharge). Blond furnishings and understated décor create a sophisticated, soothing atmosphere.

Expert Tip. On Sundays, guests can join the hotel chefs for a Champagne Brunch, featuring interactive cooking stations and unlimited champagne.