Mouse Extra

Today’s Mouse Hospitality is written by Mike, a contributing writer to Mouse Extra.

I like the Caribbean Beach Resort (”CBR”), I really do. I think its the best of the moderate resorts, although I maybe in the minority on that one. Port Orleans has many fans. Maybe it has something to do with me going there for my honeymoon, but I liked the place before that. Oh, I know its getting old. And I know the sit down restaurant stinks on ice. But still it’s a great place to stay.

photo provided by mouseplanet.com

For starters, the theming is top notch. The music, the colors, the cabana bar are all fun. I watched the Yanks beat the Padres in Game 2 in 1998 at that bar. The food court is average, but so are most. As I said, the sit down is bad, but so are all the moderates.

If you do stay there, I would stay at Aruba. Its perfectly situated in my eyes. For starters, it’s a short walk to the Custom House where check-in is, as well as the food court, restaurant, cabana bar and shop. The walk is across a small lake over a little island populated by tropical bird exhibits. Very charming. However, you are far enough away from the noise to be peaceful. The resort is huge and some “islands” can be quite a trek to the main house.

photo provided by mouseplanet.com

Transportation is an issue for many I know. I like the bus system from CBR. For one thing, it’s so big that it stops at no other resort. Here’s where Aruba comes in handy again. You are the middle stop which, to me, is the best. You never stuck on the bus too long, but there’s usually a seat except on the busiest of days at opening/closing.

Listen, The CBR can’t compare in quality to the Grand Floridian or the Animal Kingdom Lodge, but it sure beats them in price. For the money, it’s a nice play to stay. What else do you want?