The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes

What a beautiful hotel! As a Marriott Elite member, our room was immediately upgraded. It was my birthday and the Ritz did not disappoint! They delivered beautifully decorated cupcakes to my room with a handwritten card signed by numerous employees. The morning of my birthday we ordered breakfast via room service. The food was fantastic in addition to them once again acknowledging my birthday by sending complimentary mimosa's and Ritz Carlton beautifully wrapped chocolates. The overall hotel property was beautiful. The grounds are well maintained, the pool area gorgeous with a host of things to do. What was such a surprise to me was the peaceful environment yet being so close to the major attractions. This trip was truly an enjoyable one and I cannot wait to return. Truly a classy place where employees take pride in their work.

I had the pleasure to stay at this hotel this past weekend as a first-time guest with my close friends. In the past I’ve typically preferred the Waldorf Astoria at Bonnet Creek and the Four Seasons. I have to say; all of the hotels have lavished and luxurious properties. They accommodate families, couples, as well as singles. However, the quality customer service that the Ritz- Carlton brand is known for, exceeded the others. Angelica and Rita at the Highball and Harvest Restaurant was knowledgeable, warm, and went out of her way to ensure that we had a great time. Moonsay our server at dinner was one of the best waiters that we’ve had. The hostess as well was friendly. The breakfast buffet Sunday morning was exceptional. It had an assortment of farm to table organic menu options. However, we had a slight hiccup at the beginning of our stay. I planned this girls trip for a friend that has a terminal illness, which included a photo session by a local photographer to capture our memories. During the session, we were approached by two hotel security guards who asked us to refrain from taking pictures on the property, because they were concerned about protecting the Ritz-Carlton brand. He further went on to elaborate that they have personnel in place that frequently reviews photos and websites to ensure that the brand is not compromised and that we could be sued. He repeatedly emphasized the notion that we could be sued to the point that my photographer advised him that she has an insurance policy in place to protect herself and her clients. Frankly, it was embarrassing and condescending. The whole point of our stay was to capture possibly our last moments with our loved one. Had I known the hotel photography policy, most assuredly I would have sign a contractual agreement.

I really enjoyed our stay here. Found the rooms clean, decent size (although the shower is rather tiny) and the bed slightly uncomfortable. We used the mountain bikes each day on the 2 mile trail (hours are 8-4), which actually was a little challenging. Portions of it are narrow wooden planks and there are some hills built in. The bikes are free to guests and well maintained. We also used the gym every morning. Even though it is shared with the Marriott luckily it wasn't very crowded. All updated machines. The best part was the club level. I don't have any complaints. I saw some reviews that said it was repetitive but while most mornings there were similar items at breakfast it was a wide variety. Eggs, bacon, potatoes, cereal, make your own waffles, fruit, yogurt, pastries and one day a chef making omelets. You don't need anymore than that. Lunch was nice too. Always a variety of sandwiches and you could even build your own panini, soup, salads and desserts. The evening always offered something tasty from brisket to kebabs and then later desserts, chocolates, cookies, fruit to dip in chocolate. Finally, candy to help yourself throughout the day and a wide variety of beers, wines, juices, soda and water.

Had a great stay here before going on a cruise. The whole cruise was spent wishin I had just stayed at this hotel instead. Lots of stuff for the kids to do.. free ice cream, air hockey playground. Great food and pools. Workout facility, etc. Room was great as well. No complaints.

We visited the Ritz-Carlton for a friend's birthday celebration. We planned a dinner at the Highball & Harvest restaurant and many of the party guests all stayed the weekend in the hotel suites there. The amenities of the hotel cover all your needs. The pool spaces are beautiful and large. The service at Highball & Harvest was spectacular and the waiters/waitresses were friendly, knowledgeable and professional. The food there was fresh and had little unique twists, and the cocktails were tasty. The building itself is clean and definitely an enjoyable environment. A great place to hold a celebration. The hotel rooms are clean and spacious.