Universal’s Aventura Hotel

By:  Fawn Anderson, a Marvelous Mouse Travels agent

Universal’s Aventura hotel is a modern and relaxing resort that is perfect for the tech savvy guest.

The lobby of the resort is so bright and open. It has a cool, sleek vibe and everything you need is right there in front of you. There is an Avis car rental desk, the Vacation Planning Center, Universal Studios store, and Urban Pantry.

Check-in was a breeze and the staff was so friendly. I arrived early, my room was not quite ready, so they offered to hold my luggage so I could go straight to the parks. The front desk texted me later in the day to let me know my room was ready.

The free shuttle to the parks is right out front and they depart every 20 minutes, although I do not think I ever waited more than 10 minutes for a bus. You are dropped off at the Universal parking garage right by the escalators. It’s very quick and convenient.

The guestrooms are simple, yet beautifully, decorated. Hard floors and clean lines throughout the room make this the perfect tranquil retreat for a minimalist like myself. I enjoyed a gorgeous view of the parks from my skyline view room on the 10th floor and had a wonderful night’s sleep in the comfy bed.

You’ll find a technology theme throughout the resort. In your room you will have an iPad. With this device you can control the lights, temperature, tv, order food, look over information on the parks, chat with the front desk, and more.

My favorite, and the most fun feature at the resort, was having items delivered to my room by Relay, the hotel’s robot. Yes, they have a robot to bring you things! You simply go onto your iPad and select what you would like to be delivered. Order towels, cups, or a toothbrush, and a few minutes later your phone rings and it’s Relay telling you he is outside your door with your items. He brought me shampoo and conditioner, asked if I needed anything else and then rolled back down the hall to get onto the elevator.

If you want to take a break from visiting the parks, you can spend some quiet time at the pool.  This area is beautiful and right outside the side door of the resort so you’ll still be close enough to go in and grab lunch. Lay in a lounger and admire the glassy tower that is Aventura Hotel, cool off in the pool, and then go relax in the hot tub.

The food selection at Aventura is great. Urban Pantry offers breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. The breakfast options include an assortment of pastries, eggs, pancakes, and more. At lunchtime, you can stop by the Wok Station and create your own wok bowl and also enjoy some sushi. They also offer delicious favorites at the Roast Station. Burgers, sandwiches, wraps, and salads are all available. And don’t miss the Pizza Station. Order up your favorite pizza pie and then enjoy some gelato for dessert.

End your day at Bar 17 Bistro. This a wonderful open air, roof top bar with spectacular views of the city. Enjoy wagyu beef sliders, firecracker shrimp, chicken wings, and more while sipping on your favorite cocktail watching the sunset.

I had such a great time at this resort. My one night’s stay was not enough and I cannot wait to return.