Universal Studios FL questions

Okay, some friends & I want to take a trip down to FL and before I saw yes lets go there I figure I'd ask those who live to ride, for some yes and no's, etc about going. We plan on going for at least 5 days maybe 6. Evidently it's cheaper if we do go with theire Stay & play package.

Should we stay for that long or will 4 days cut it?

Any advice on which hotel to stat at (Pacific, Hard Rck or Portofino) (money isnt really a big thing and we do like it when the room is plush and comfy)

We are going in late march early april, should we go a diff time, or will that time be ok? (I prefer off season, they have no clue what its like to wait 1 1/2 or 2 hours for a ride)

Uhm any advice, etc, comments, please let me know!

Thanks,

Justin

CP 1997-2000 Mantis

SFOT 2003 Live E!

Having stayed there this past October for 5 days, and mixing Halloween Horror Nights in there, I have some things to say that may be different than someone who goes there often.

We stayed at the Royal PAcific and it was truly gorgeous and worth it. Expensive compared to staying offsite, but the benefit of the Universal Express whenever you feel like it (about 15 minutes wait max) makes it very valuable. If you purhase UE at the park, you only get one Express pass per ride and would have to wait on the regular line after that. Given that, even when it's busy, if you're onsite, you guys could get away with 4 days using your hotel key. If you plan on actually enjoying the hotel areas and CityWalk during the day, 5 days would probably be better.

Universal Orlando rocks!! Here is my idea. Stay onsite, buy the entertainment book: www.entertainment.com It will cut your payments in half for the hotel. We paid $110 to stay at the Royal Pacific and $125 to stay at Hard Rock. Out of those two the Royal Pacific was best in my view. I liked the pool better at the Hard Rock, but overall atmosphere I liked Royal Pacific. I am able to go through both parks in 2 days and still have time to spare, but I also know the layout and stuff. I still would spend 6 days if you have never been there. When you go take it easy though, cuz there is a lot of walking involved!!! It's a large complex. Overall though, use your room keys to get to the front of the line and you won't have a problem, even during the busiest of times. Also go to Loew's website and become a Loew's first member. When you book your room you can get a nice touch. I always get the water and fruit! If you have any questions email me!

I still say that IOA is a one day park...and a half day depending on the crowds. The Studios gives you a second day.

I say just do two days at Universal and then make a trip over to Busch Gardens Tampa. Kumba, Montu and Gwazi are worth the drive.

Also, it would be sacreligious to visit Orlando and not to at least spend a day in the Magic Kingdom if you have never been there before.