Universal Orlando’s Portofino Bay Resort Club Level

Tara Mulkerin6.30.20For my first visit to Universal Orlando Resort I wanted to do it up right.I chose the Portofino Bay Resort for three reasons. The free Universal Express Unlimited pass access; club Level Access and Italian theming.The Express Pass which affords skipping the regular line for a much quicker exclusive line all day over and over. We saved so much time I would have a difficult time enjoying myself without it! Universal includes the unlimited express pass at the Portofino, Hard Rock and Royal Pacific. If you aren’t staying at one of the 3 resorts, you would need to purchase the express tickets separately. Sometimes it is better to stay at one of the 3 resorts as it is less expensive than adding the unlimited express to your tickets. It is worth asking your agents to price that option out for you.I was also interested in the Portofino Bay because they offer club level accommodations. Over the years we have become accustomed to Club Level and find a real value in it, especially breakfast. This club level lounge offered hot items like eggs, breakfast potatoes, bacon and sausage. There was also a breakfast burrito section and oatmeal. Along with the hot items there were cold items of fruit and cheese, yogurt and cereal. Beverages of all sorts – coffee, teas, sodas, juices and water. All of which we took advantage of after check in. Our room was not ready, but we had arrived at 9am. After breakfast we went to the hotel ticket desk to pick up our prepaid package tickets and checked out a little of the hotel on the way to the boat that takes you to Universal, Islands of Adventure, and City Walk.I head read that Steven Spielberg contributed to the hotel design as a consultant. He loved Portofino Italy and used that as inspiration for the resort hotel. You did have the feeling of waking through an upscale Italian town with outdoor cafes and beautiful courtyards. The short walk to the boat was scenic and enjoyable.We enjoyed the parks for several hours when we received a text to pick our room key. It was a very spacious room with an enormous bathroom with a double sink, large soaking tub and oversized shower. Toiletries included shampoo, conditioner, shower cap, several soaps, Q-tips, and cotton balls. There were 2 queen beds a large sitting table with 4 chairs, an oversized soft chair with an ottoman perfect for reading. Our view was beautiful of the quiet pool which was completely empty.We decided to head over to the sandy pool. This pool was amazing. There was a sandy area with beach ball and swim noodles and sand toys for all to use. There was a hut with towels, cucumber and orange water for a quick cool complimentary drink. There was even complimentary sunscreen. We grabbed a few towels and explored through grottos and a slide and waterfalls. I would plan to spend several hours at this pool next time we come. You can also order pool side food service and Cabanas for rent, as well, which had chaises and refrigerator, TV and fan and fruit platter.We ordered room service dinner/snacks one evening. The cheeseburgers, cheese sticks, bacon, and potatoes.   The food was good but allow for 40-60 minutes for it to arrive. The large table in the room was perfect for us to sit and eat in comfort.The next time we go to Universal Orlando I plan to have 4-5 days. I’d like to have at least a day or a day and a half to enjoy the hotel. With 3 parks, City Walk, and great resort pools, we needed a few more days to enjoy it all.I’d love to help you plan your Universal or Disney destination vacation. Please contact me to get started on your fantastic adventure.Tara Mulkerin Concierge Agent Wishes Family TravelM - (412) 913-8652