Quality Inn Plaza

We stayed at the Quality Inn Plaza on International Drive, Orlando in September 2009. A little bit apprehensive as some of the reviews we had read about the place were not altogether pleasant but I can safely say that all concerns were quickly put to rest. whilst this would not be considered ideal for those seeking a hotel of 5 star quality I feel that for what you generally use the room for if you are staying in Orlando it is more than adequate. Upon arrival we were checked in very quickly by nice reception staff. Our room was a standard one which consisted of two king size beds,tv, air con, fridge, microwave and on suite. The room was well kept albeit a bit old fashioned in the decor. The bathroom did what you needed it too and the tv had enough channels to keep you entertained when you wanted to wind down.

The swimming pool was of average size, not one that you could do lengths in or anything like that but nice to cool down in and there were more than enough loungers available. The onsite shop had a good variety of foods and drinks but I would recommend going to Walgreens just across the road for better value for money as, and this seems to be the same with most hotels on international drive, the items were a bit overpriced.

It is in a good location for those of you who prefer the quieter end of International Drive, the only down side to this is that depending on what you choose to do for dinner you may need to travel up to the other end to get a better choice of restaurants.

We didnt use the restaurant facilities at the hotel as we chose to use the sizzler that is located about a 2 minute walk from the hotel for breakfast and then venture out in the evening to some of the other restaurants along i-drive. We did check out the bar but found that it was very overpriced and therefore took a short walk to Walgreens instead (always remember to carry ID when purchasing alcohol as they are very strict on this and you may find yourself leaving stores empty handed if you dont go pre-prepared)

The free shuttles offered for the parks ideally should be booked the day before to avoid disappointment. also make sure you arrive early to board the coach as they dont appear to mind over booking at times which could leave you and your party disappointed or having to stand for the journey. We generally found that the times offered didnt really suit us at all times and opted on occasions to get the I-Ride Trolley down to Sea World or down to Wet and Wild with a short walk to Universal Studios as that suited us better. If you choose to get collected from either Seaworld or Universal Studios then make sure you get there around 20-30 mins before pick up as this is offered on a first come first serve basis so you are not guaranteed a space back and a cab fare will set you back around $10 if not more to get back to the hotel otherwise. However if you choose the cab option you can always take a trip down to wet and wild at around a $4-$5 charge and then get the I-Ride back down to the hotel.

The room service was always very good, with new towels and sheets being provided daily and the housekeeping staff were very pleasant. We had a problem with our safe at one point and a quick call to reception saw it fixed within 30 mins.

Like I said if your not expecting the Ritz then this will suit you down to the ground, a very nice place to stay and I would not hesitate to recommend this place or indeed stay there again.