Originally Posted by
gloreglabert
Glad I came across this topic. I've got a weeklong stay in Orlando coming up and am trying to decide between the Radisson International Drive and the Country Inn & Suites Universal. We want to be close to both Disney and Universal, so the Radisson Celebration is out. I've been leaning towards the CI&S over the Radisson so far, based mostly on scouring reviews. The bullet points of my impressions so far are as follows:
- Radisson is 9k/night, CI&S is 15k/night (advantage R)
- Radisson charges daily resort fee, but seems to be waived on award stays (tie)
- CI&S has free breakfast which seems to be well-received from reviews, Radisson has no free breakfast (advantage C)
- CI&S rooms are basic but serviceable, while some recent reviews for Radisson are highly questionable (e.g., bugs) (slight advantage C)
- Radisson may be very slightly more conveniently located, but that's pretty much a wash (tie)
Obviously the main reason to go with the Radisson is the 40% points savings, but between the free breakfast and the slightly better reviews, I was thinking going with the CI&S was worth it -- another way of looking at the 15k vs 9k issue is that Carlson agrees with that assessment. However,
TTnC4me posted against the CI&S -- although for us, I don't care about facilities like a pool and whatnot (traveling kid-free) -- just want a clean, functional room, good location, and free breakfast is always appreciated.
Any thoughts?
I'd stay at Radisson.
I've stayed at both for a few nights and it really comes down to what is more important for you. Radisson gets you sleep number beds, better amenities and decor. For 9K, it's a steal. CIS is just down the road and it was spotlessly clean even though the walls n furniture show some age. Their breakfast, as you mentioned is pretty good and if you're big on breakfast, then it's definitely something to consider.
That said, if you're using points, I'd stay at Radisson. Yes, they waive resort fees and at 9K, it's a really good deal. The quality of bedding/decor/amenities is definitely way better than CIS and all you will be sacrificing is free breakfast. Rooms come with a mini fridge, so you can always buy milk/cereal and have that for breakfast. There's a walgreens within walking distance and ample restaurants on I-drive. Cici Pizza there has a $3.99 buffet which is a good value and for people on a budget. Plus, you'll save 6000 points/daily over CIS.
Radisson area is also better as it is directly on I-drive and surrounded by restaurants and tourist attractions. CIS is on Universal drive and there's nothing directly around it. All you're sacrificing is free breakfast.