Just returned from a two week stay at the Fountains.

I would start by saying that the Fountains provides an excellent base for the parks, activities and beaches which are in the area (easy drive to both Cocoa and Daytona Beach).

Previous reviews have said that the resort is too far down International Drive, however this is not true, yes it is at the quieter end, but only 10 mins from all the theme parks (Universal, Disney) and literally two minutes from Vineland Avenue where there are the Premium Outlets (discount designer and sports labels, a bit like Bicester in England) and only 10 mins from Major Malls. Sea World is less then 5 mins away.

Reception gave us excellent directions (a sheet) to everything we could need and driving in Florida is a lot easier than in the UK as the roads are massive and well sign posted.

Just in case anyone is thinking of not hiring a car - don’t! Wherever you stay on I-Drive, you will need one!

For us Europeans reading the review, the best way to describe this resort is not like a hotel, but imagine apartment blocks (about 7 I believe) surrounding a man-made lake (not in brilliant condition, water level dropped, algae, poor fountains) but with 2 swimming pools, one with two large kids slides and play area.

The resort is part of Blue Green, which are a big timeshare company, luckily we escaped any sales presentations!

The hotel has a small bar and shop and the smaller indoor / outdoor swimming pool (the one you will see in photos), a good small gym (lifefitness equipment), games room (pool table, table tennis), arcade room etc.

Disappointingly the Pool bar at this pool was not open, and the facilities in general seem a bit understaffed, this may have been the time of year. This meant that if you wanted a drink you had to get an elevator to the main bar. Note to Managers – if this was open we would have spent more!

Although we did not make full use of them there seemed to be good activites for kids and adults.

The hotel is quite expensive in comparison to the area (drinks, food, tickets etc).

The room was very well equipped with everything that you would have in a Villa (washing machine, dishwasher, dryer etc). The décor was not brilliant, but typically American and very new. The kitchen is a good size. TV’s in all 3 rooms, Jacuzzi hot tub and power showers, the air conditioning and ceiling fans are excellent.

If I were American visiting, I would take my own DVD’s to watch (especially for kids) as the channels are limited on the TV’s unless you pay for them or indeed pay for films (approx $16).

Unfortunately the room was very dirty when we arrived including having the previous occupants food in the fridge which was not pleasant, however the next day it was cleaned better, after that it is up to you as there is no maid service until the day you leave which is not really a problem (you can pay for extra cleans I believe).

You are given Pool Towel tokens on arrival which allows you to have fresh beach towels whenever you want them which is great.

The staff were not too interested if I am honest and service lacked a smile, except for Security who were very friendly and professional and ran a very tight ship, as with previous reviews, I want to give a special mention to Howard Myers – an ex-pat Brit, first class service and a good source of local information! I was hoping for first class Customer Service in Florida, but unless the staff are tip earning then they are no better then in the UK!

I should say that around the lakes are big gas BBQ’s which you can use – a great idea. Also there is another lake which has wild life such as big turtles and fish and you can hire rods and paddle boats – this was lovely (located behind the main reception building).

Speaking to Orlando regulars (including one girl who worked in timeshare) the fountains is of a better standard than most and if I didn’t rent a Villa, then I would defiantly stay here again, although not perfect, it did provide good value for money.

Feel free to contact me if you want more!

I stayed at the the fountians on april 13-18 2008 with my wife and three kids. the fountians was a wonderful choice i have no complaints as evvery thing was great . we stayed in building 7
near the back which had a great view of the lake and new pool area. The room was very clean and had a lot of space for a family of 5. the new pool area was very nice, and the kids loved it. The staff was freindly.

My husband and I stayed with our 2 kids; age 9 and 12, last week. The construction on the new pool area is complete. there is construction att he entrance and on a new building. But they are both way up front. We were in building 6 at the back. it was alittle longer walk to both pool areas/rest., but very quiet. We had a total of 4 other families that stayed at the resort as well off and on during the week. It is very FAMILY FRIENDLY. Nice gas grills/eating areas strategically placed around buildings which we utilized a lot to cook out. 2 bedroom condo is spacious, clean, updated. Lots of kids activities. We saved a lot of money by eating in for breakfast/lunch/dinner most of the time. (Compared to staying in a suite or 2 rooms at a hotel for a cheaper overnight room rate.) Plenty of room and everything you need. Very nice full size washer and dryer. We did our laundry beforewe left, so coming back wasn't as bad as usual.
The location is awesome. we had one day or rain; hit the upscale outlet mall 1-2 miles away. Lots of restaraunts and grocery store close by as well. Plus very close to Sea World, Wet n' Wild, Universal etc...

We just returned from a 3 night stay at The Fountains, 12400 International Drive, Orlando, FL and totally fell in love with the resort. We booked the reservation through Bluegreen Rentals (Michelle) and received a 2 bedroom deluxe villa (6303) that included a living/dining room combination, fully equipped kitchen, 2 bathrooms, laundry area with washer/dryer, ironing board & iron, and even a laundry basket and detergent. One bedroom had 2 full beds and the master had a king sized bed and jacuzzi tub. Both bedrooms and the living area had televisions. The highlight of the villa was that it had a screened balcony with a ceiling fan. We spent a lot of time out there enjoying the view of the lake, fountains, and ducks that have taken up residence there too! The fountains turn on at 8:00 a.m. and music is played throughout the day.

Although most of our time in Orlando was spent "exploring" the area, we did take advantage of the pool area that is located behind the main lobby. It is truly a beautiful spot to relax, not to mention that the water temperature was like bath water! There were also 2 hot tubs (one inside, one outside), and plenty of lounge chairs. They recently opened another pool with water slides, but we didn't check that one out since we figured the kids would be enjoying that one.

We would definitely recommend The Fountains as it's on the quieter end of International Drive and only a few blocks away from Sea World. It also has 24 hour security and you have to have a parking pass to get by the gate. We actually found out how secure it was the first night of our stay. We had arrived about 4 hours later than we had anticipated due to a flight delay, and a 1 hour wait in line for our rental car. So, by the time we got to our room, we were pretty hungry and decided to have pizza delivered. About 30 minutes after ordering, we received a call from security asking whether or not we had ordered pizza. After confirming that we had, they allowed the delivery person through the gates.

Last, but not least, Howard who works for security at the main gate is a true asset to the company. Anyone who meets him will instantly know why! HINT: He has a wonderful accent and great sense of humor!!!

NOTE:
In response to previous reviews - Our villa was very clean, no ants, and we found the beds to be quite comfortable, although I would agree that they need to invest in fitted bottom sheets.