DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Orlando at SeaWorld

Tired, but still be prepared to be NICKELED and DIMED!!

This "resort" defines the meaning of being "nickled and dimed to death" -- be prepared to spend nearly 2x the advertised price from resort fees and parking to pool towel charges! Yes, they have a pool towel vending machine -- which, if you do not return the towel, will charge you $14 extra! The rooms are showing their age and disuse and are in need refreshing/repairing. The ice machines (if you can find any that are working) are slow to recover. Go to the upper floors of the "tower" to get ice.

In the heart of it all . . . uber gay-friendly

The newly revitalized Doubletree Resort Orlando - International Drive hotel enjoys a prime Orlando location in the heart of Central Florida's amusement and entertainment district; just steps from SeaWorld and the convention center as well as an easy drive to Universal and Disney World. It takes about 20 minutes to drive to Orlando International Airport and about 30 minutes to downtown Orlando. It is a large property on 28 lush acres of native palm trees and tropical fountains; however, the property is nicely divided into "neighborhoods," as not to feel too overwhelming. There are multiple pool, a 24-hour fitness center and on-site dining options. And let's not forget the famous Doubletree cookies. The hotel is a member of the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association and TAG Approved. In 2010, it served as the host hotel for GayDays and is scheduled to repeat as the host hotel in 2011. I stayed at the property November 16 to 20, 2010.