The Classy Side of Disney Resorts

Christopher Blydenburgh
When you picture Disney attractions, what do you see? Childish themed motels and attractions surrounded by character themed typical dining and activities geared only towards the little ones? Maybe in the Disney of eras gone by, but not anymore! In recent years there have been so many changes that there is little doubt these days as to the "Magic of Disney" for people of all ages. Sure, there are still rides and kiddie pools and all of the things that have made Disney so famous, but did you know that there are Victorian hotels, a beach club, and fine dining that puts even the big cities to shame?

Let's start with their flagship resort. The Grand Floridian, a 19th century inspired Palace-By-The-Sea lies along the Seven Seas Lagoon. With a huge pool in the center courtyard, numerous watercraft available for use, a white sand beach with covered chairs and two lounges, this is a must see resort. If that isn't enough, you can take advantage of any one of the five restaurants, play a game of tennis on one of five courts, work out in the health club, or for a more luxurious experience, spend a day of total relaxation and pampering in the full service spa.

Not your style? Take in a few days at Disney's Yacht Club, where even the most sophisticated tastes are bound to be met. With its own beach, and a short distance to either Epcot or MGM Studios, this is a very convenient and luxurious destination. With Stormalong Bay, the Club's very own 3 acre waterpark featuring pools, hot tubs, waterslides, and plenty of room for a nice lazy float on an inner tube, you can have tons of fun without even leaving the resort. The hotel itself is in the 1880's style of the old hotels along the eastern seaboard.

Looking for something a little wilder? How about an African theme? The Animal Kingdom Lodge provides all you need for an authentic african experience. From cuisine to art to customs, to the wild animals themselves, this park has everything a safari hunter could desire. With over 30 acres of grasslands playing home to hundreds of free roaming wild and exotic animals, this park is sure to amaze anyone. Many of these animals can be seen right from your room, as well as many other places throughout the lodge. The lodge itself is a sight to behold. Made of common African building materials, and having such features as a thatched roof and mud fireplace, this is as close as one can get to an African adventure without leaving the Country.

Last of all, for those who just want a sojourn with nature, is The Wilderness Lodge. Reminiscent of national parks in the early 20th century, this lodge features amazing sights. From the authentic totem poles, to the waterfalls, to the absolutely breathtakingly enormous trees, this park is everything a nature lover could desire. With dozens upon dozens of wild plant varieties, small critters galore, and an eight story log lobby that is a sight to behold, this lodge is sure to delight, but there is still one feature left to help you make up your mind. Wilderness Lodge is home to its own geyser, erupting regularly for all to see. It is truly nature in all its splendor. Yes, these days, there is certainly something Disney for everyone, from every background and every class. This mouse definitely has a lot to offer.

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