I haven't stayed there (yet, will on the next trip). But, my research has told me that Universal's hotels are in reality a grade above Disney's equivalent grade (and cheaper). Perfect example is Cabana Bay which has a lazy river and a 5 minute walk to a park. Cabana Bay is Prime Value.
we enjoy the WDW values when we find ourselves out of DVC points. They serve the purpose, perfect for a shorter trip. One of my favorite pools is ASMusic. Pop is basic, AoA gets my nod but you cannot discount how nice it is to hop on the gondolas. CB surely has it’s fans, just not my ‘jam’. It’s wonderful to have so many different pricepoints & options in both parks.
The deluxe properties at both are lovely IMO. All have their own vibe and special amenities. Do agree that, with an APH rate, the U onsite properties are true bargains; especially when you factor in the EP
Yes its comparable to pop but at like 60$ less a night...with a bowling alley, 2 pool bars, and much better transportation to parks. Disney had the magical express bonus but taking that away is another push to universal. Even with the magical express after 2 nights the UO resort savings covers the uber or taxi cost.
Many fans love both parks & regularly combine a split stay between the two. Doesn’t have to be a them or us sort of thing, despite many WDW fans still looking down their noses at the U properties. I cringe when I see somebody reference a “throw away room”.
WDW has yet to offer the sale of APs to the general public. We plan on keeping ours renewed as long as viable. From the crowds we experienced last week there, I question both, whether they will sell new ones anytime soon & the wisdom of them increasing capacity above what they state as 50%.
U certainly gets the nod as to customer service working with us on multiple AP issues during last year & and for keeping their prices reasonable. I lost count of the number of times & hours I spent on hold dealing with disney. It all worked out in the end but was quite the process.
Unfortunately, if predictions do come true and ‘revenge travel’ takes off this summer & fall, the current heavily discounted U APH rates will likely go ‘poof’. Ultimately, it all comes down to their metrics & profit margins.