We arrived in June with 4 kids in tow at three o'clock in the morning and it took the guy behind the desk almost a half hour to check us in. The kids literally fell asleep waiting and I was so tired, I don't even remember exactly what all the problems were, but it started of course with he couldn't even find our reservation. Checkout was almost as bad -- and that was not at an unusual time.

Other than that the stay was fine -- nothing special, but solid. The unit was fine, although the microwave in one half of our two-bed lock-off didn't work. We were top floor and we overlooked the golf course so it was quiet and relaxing both in and out of the unit.

The main reason to stay here is the location with its fantastic access to the Florida parks -- the resort is right in the middle of everything and it's only a few minutes to whatever you want to see. I'd give it 10/5 for that if I could -- perfect.

Vistana Villages, A Starwood Resort property, at the top of Resort Vacation list in Orlando

Exceptional property for family vacation.

My husband and I own three weeks at the Villages. We just love the place. Enjoy our getaways to Orlando. The Villages location is wonderful, the pools and grounds are picturesque. The staff is friendly and accommodating. The rooms are comfortable and nicely decorated. It is a wonderful home away from home, high end property and a top notch vacationing time share. In our opinion Starwood Vacation Club and its Sheraton Vistana Villages is equal to the Marriott Vacation Club in every way. We also own a few time shares with the Marriott organization and can honestly make that comparison.

This is an awesome place away from home. It gives you an opportunity to bring your family and/or friends to a level of rich living without the price. MFE

We brought our family down in December for a full week and we were really impressed. We are owners at another Starwood resort and were able to use our time here and glad we did. The pools were amazing, especially the main pool, which the kids enjoyed. The resort had a convenient shuttle bus that took us to Epcot which we then used as our connection point to go to Magic Kingdom via the monorail system. It was about a 15 minute ride to the park since we stopped at the Vistana Resort to pick up other guests their. It was just super convenient for us with our two kids and we had strollers too. The convenience saved us the cost of having to rent a car. The villa itself was extremely comfortable. We were fortunate to be in the same building as the market so we would go get food for breakfast or other meals and cook in the villa before heading to the parks. The grounds were very well kept. I did see the other Sheraton property, but based on what I saw and my experience, I would definitely go back to the Vistanta Villages again the next time we take the family to Disney.

For people who don't understand Options--if you buy at the resort, your unit has a point value that is good at all Starwood (Sheraton/Westin) resorts. Any number of bedrooms, days, seasons etc. If you buy resale, be SURE to buy units with Options. BTW we like ALL Starwood resorts, and the SPG credit card is the best for flights. We fly Baltimore to Orlando for 20,000 points per person. Marriott points charge more than three times as much!

We have been guest in this beautiful resort. We had some complains regarding the WI-Fi not always in full strength. It is in a great location, close to so many centers and parks. We come without children and have ton's to do. The staff is very accommodating. We left on Christmas day but we enjoy seeing the activities for the children Christmas Eve. Everybody seem to have fun.

I had owned here for nearly 9 years. The service and cleanliness has gone way down and certainly for the price from the resort - NO WAY IS IT WORTH IT! If you are going to buy... buy resale!

The staff here was very friendly from the begging of our stay until the very end. Based on other reviews I requested for a room to be in the Lakes section of the complex as it had been renovated. Unfortunately I was told that I would they had a room for me in the Cascades section. When I mentioned my preference for a renovated room they assured me that units 1 thru ( I believe 18) had been recently renovated and we would not be near any ongoing construction. I was given a first floor 2 br villa in unit 12 and I must say I could not have been happier. The room was spacious, clean and more than I could have hoped for. We had a king size bed w/ Jacuzzi tub and a full shower for our bedroom. The second bedroom had 2 full beds (which could have slept 4 mid to average size kids) with an access door to its own bathroom that was very spacious as well. That bathroom had a shower and another door that opened out to the living area. We mostly ate at the counter between the kitchen and dining room but the table was big enough to fit 6 easily. The couch was fairly comfortable and could have been pulled out to accommodate 2 more people. Both rooms had decent sized LCD TV’s as well as a (40”?) LCD TV in the living room. The porch had a sliding glass door from the licing room or a door from the master bedroom. All the porches were screened which was nice.

Short of a few essentials like shampoo, etc the room had what we needed. We were called a few times throughout our stay, but not once did the phone ring. The calls all went to voice mail and most of them were informing us of different events they had going on along with specials on their rip slide water slide they had. Only 1 time when my wife went in to ask about the shampoo and other little items was she informed to see guest relations to pick up the items. At guest relations she could then register for a 1 hr meeting which they would supply a breakfast and either tickets or discounted tickets to the area parks. Since I already purchased all the tickets we needed prior to coming down and was not looking to purchase we went to a local Walgreens and purchased the few items we needed.

The pools in Cascade and Fountains were big ( never really crowded while we were there) and very nice. We found the whole property to be clean and everyone to be friendly. The resort is only a few miles from any of the Disney Parks and about 6 or 7 miles from the Universal Parks. If you do not have little ones I highly recommend Universal Islands of Adventure. It is the newest and offers the most for people of all ages.

I would definitely recommend this place to family and friends as well as redweek.com, and I will keep this place in mind for our return trip in the future.

Re: JohnM's post above.

Vistana Villages has mandatory phases and voluntary phases for staroptions.

Bella and Key West are the ONLY mandatory phases - staroptions transfer with resale. ALL OTHER phases are voluntary. STAROPTIONS DO NOT TRANSFER ON RESALE in these phases. (any except Bella and Key West phases as noted above)

I just wanted to clarify so no one bought with mistaken expectations.

We just returned from a week long trip at The Villages. We own at two different resorts and trade frequently. We were disappointed by our recent stay. I confirmed with two different people to have a pull out bed ready for our late arrival so the kids could get to sleep. It was not there, along with the other items we had pre arranged (including the groceries for next morning's breakfast). 45 minutes and two phone calls later, the bed arrived. It was too late to determine the whereabouts of our food and other supplies we had arranged. We had to wait until the office was opened in the morning. They never did find our order for groceries, although I had a confirmation #. The construction noise was so loud at times, we couldn't hear the TV. The pool is old and dirty. We waited 45 minutes for a pizza in the grill while the rest of the family ate their food....we waited for a pizza that turned out to be not worth waiting for. But the part that was the most irritating was the "spring break" like attitude at the pool and grill. The kareoke was so loud one night at 10:30pm coming from across the pool that it was waking our kids. The Dj at the pool during the day had the speakers and microphone turned up so loud, if you were in your villa it was as if they were standing in our bathroom, singing. All this for the three lone people at the pool.... After spending hours at Disney the only thing we wanted to do at out villa was have a couple of hours of peace and quite and perhaps take a nap. This was all but possible. We will not be giving our options away for this one again...

This is an exceptional property and as others note, it is very convienient to Seaworld and other attractions. I love the pool complex.

As an owner of a resale unit at this property, thought I'd offer a point of clarification about what does and doesn't transfer with a resale. Having gone to a number of timeshare sales pitches, I find it is good to know all the key facts about their programs, since they may not be very forthright in telling you things that might not help their sale.

So, here's what you should know. Sheraton Vistanna Villages is considered a "mandatory" property, so upon resale, the "Staroptions" definitely do transfer to the new owner. What doesn't transfer is the "Starpoints". The difference is that Staroptions consist of points that you can use to exchange into other Starwood timeshare properties--including some fablulous Sheraton and Westin resorts. You can get a full week or book individual days at these timeshare properties using the Staroptions. It is confusing because although you get points (I get 67,100 per year), they are in the Staroptions program, not Starpoints program.

The "Starpoints" program is where you can convert your week of ownership to a certain amount of points in the Starwood hotel program that you can use to get rooms at their hotels.

In my opinion, not getting the option to have points to stay in their hotels is not much of a loss. The amount of the points you get for hotel stays is not that large, so is a poor value in my book. I think if you want to stay in their hotels you're better off getting the best price you can on the internet.

However, using the Staroptions is a great benefit and great value! I have used mine to book several short stays at many of their fine timeshare properties, getting far, far more value than what I paid in fees. I think this makes a resale at this property a great way to go.

So to summarize: Staroptions = use at Starwood timeshare properties. Resale owners can use this. Starpoints = use at Starwood hotels. Resale owners can not use this.

Note that the Sheraton Vistanna, which is a different property than the Vistanna Villages, is not a "mandatory" property, so you don't get either the Staroptions or Starpoints upon a resale. That's why the prices tend to be lower at that property.

My family has stayed at this resort many times as we are owners here dating back to 2003. This is a great resort, particularly if you are planning on visiting some of the theme parks, the closeness is second to none. I read some of the previous reviews and am glad that it was pointed out that the points do not transfer on the resales. This is true, but with the great prices here on Redweek, these deals should not be passed up. You will literally save thousands on a resale purchase. The Villages are newer than the Resort but the Resort has so much more to offer such as multiple huge pools as well as several restaurants on-site. The Villages continue to be developed and are offering more and more amentities. Either place is a great vacation stay.

We stayed a week in summer '05 on an RCI trade through my brother's timeshare ownership; I've never had such a luxurious vacation! We usually stay in budget hotels but at this resort, truly felt on vacation. I was so happy with our stay and proximity to all the activities/logistical needs (Sea World & Disney right down the road, Super Walmart and outlet mall around the corner).

Now we're looking into buying a timeshare unit there on resale (or at neighboring Vistana Resort - less expensive but the reviews indicate there might be a reason for that??). Appreciate everyone's honest reviews - it's challenging & more than a little scary to buy a timeshare sight unseen!

We stayed in this resort last week on an exchange with II. We were in a 2 bedroom lockoff. It was very nice and would recommend staying at this resort..Watch if you are buying a resale. The sales people said the options do not apply to resale people and I noticed some of the ads on this website imply that you would get the option to trade to other Starwood resorts using options. Check before you purchase.

This place was absolutely beautiful. Our condo was huge, new, well appointed, and had very comfortable beds. The resort was lovely and staff exceptionally helpful. It was close to everything we wanted to do and a great place to kick back and relax.

Our rental through Redweek.com was easy and we are ready to do it again.

We went this April (Easter). Accomodation beautiful, staff attentive, our third time at the resort. I neeed a few different items for the kitchen, they quickly sent somebody with additional trays, pyrexes, etc. Click on pictures, what you see is what you get. Great beds and linens. They do not show the large patio set (all enclosed) for your early or late meals.

Great location close also to outlets (my first time shopping there, and I loved it!). There is stuff for everybody, even if you do not want to go to the Parks.

The swimming pool, if I remember well was voted one of the best or the best of all the Sheraton Resorts network.

When we left, my teenage son forgot his wallet and we received a call upon returning home. Security Staff very polite called us twice and sent him wallet, docs. and money all inside intact.

Have been to the Vistana Villages about 10 times and love it! Our children are 17 & 20 and enjoy the adult pool and hot tub until 1:00am. Many resorts like HGVC close the pool at 11:00 which does not allow you to enjoy the facilities after a long day . Its close to everything and the pool access is easier for walking to no matter what building you are in.The 2 bedrooms are beautiful as they are all the same but the one bedrooms have about 6 different version of room layouts. So if you are expecting a one bedroom room to look like the 2 bedroom room you may be disappointed as they are no comparison. The do have a premium one bedroom but you very rarely will get this. Go for the 2 bedroom its spacious and gorgeous.The pictures to the right of this review ARE NOT what the 1 bedrooms look like so don't expect that unless you get the Premium one bedroom then what you see is what you get and its beautiful.This resort much great beauty then the Sheraton Vistana Resort as far as rooms and Balcony views. Do your homework on where you want to stay, what you expect and location and you won't be disappointed but if you don't you have no one to blame but yourself..Have a great vacation.

We went on April Vacation 2006, and loved it! Our unit was in the new area "The Keys"-- absolutely beautiful. Granite Kitchen, UNBELIEVABLE bathroom, walk-in shower, huge double vanity.

Close to everything, & very comfortable. Excellent staff and all areas very new & clean. Lots of kids at the pool, but the unit itself was very quiet & relaxing at the end of crazy days at the theme parks!

We've just returned from Florida and we spent 1 week here. We were treated very nicely, had a great room, and would definetly come back.

Our family of five just returned from the condo. We had an excellent time. The room was perfect, clean and had everything we needed. The first day we lost a piece of our luggage and they returned it personally to our room. The condo is conveniently located to all of the attractions, Sea World, Disney and Universal. Easy to find and get around town.

Great Place. Was there for a week Jan 2006. Was put in the new buildings - The Keys. Wonderful. The pool area is great. The fitness center is second to none. All Life Fitness machines with tv's right in them, with cable. The steam room at the other fitness center is wonderful. Liked the resort so much, we bought a week. Can't wait to go back.

This is a beautiful resort. Our 2-bedroom 2- bath unit was immaculate. Check-in was fast and easy.

Close to grocery store, Universal Studios and Disney.

We would definitely stay here again.

Spent a week in late May of 2005. When I think Vistana Villages, I think pool! When I think safety for my 7 and 8-year-old, I think Vistana. When I think of my parents enjoying the wonderful walks about the lake, I think there are very few places that GOD created on earth that could compare to a place like this.

Top pleasure and an unforgettable experience. Staff makes you feel like you are on top of the world!!!

THIS IS A NICE PLACE TO STAY IF THE CHILDREN'S PARENTS TRY TO CONTROL THEM. THE PARENTS DRIVE IN TO THE BUILDINGS OPEN THE DOORS TO THE CARS AND LET THE KIDS RUN WILD FOR THE STAY. I TRADED MY NEXT YEARS WEEKS TO GO SOMEWHERE QUITE WITH LESS ANIMALS AROUND.

Wonderful place for a two-week home away from home. One BR deluxe w/large bath, extra sink/dressing area, screened porch, FK, wet bar, dining area. (apx. 882 sq. ft.) Staff friendly and very helpful.

Problems: Cleaning could be better, esp. floors. Initially put in a very small unit but upon request moved to a large unit. (Thanks to Jennifer).

Great vacation, as usual enjoyed Disney World as well as relaxing in our unit.

Hey Bill 9044 - I reckon you've posted on the wrong resort ! How can you not find your unit in 10 buildings around 1 lake? Sawing must have been annoying though.

We have stayed 3 times, and bought twice. This is a great resort, with a great location. We come all the way from the UK, so we wouldn't spend our money carelessly

The resort staff are excellent and very helpful - especially the concierge desk.

We arrived later in the evening and after check in found this resort to be too large to find you unit by yourself, after twenty minutes we went back to the front desk for additional assistance. In the morning we awoke to the sounds of roof repair and sawing directly below our balcony. Units are really starting to show their age. They have a lot of activities available however, I would not stay here again even if it was free, The location is excellent however there are many finer resorts in the same general area.

Great place to stay if you want to visit Disney. Very close to lots of other attractions as well. We loved the rooms and pools. Food was good. The timeshare sales person was not the most honest.

We went last October. It was a nice resort, very clean and brand new. The kids LOVED the pool and loved us dragging them under the waterfalls with the inflatables that we rented. However, there was no restaurant to eat in. We purchased breakfast from the snack bar, and the regular bar was open for about ten minutes one afternoon. It's going to be very nice once everything is built, but we were expecting a lot more, especially from Vistana.

We have stayed here two times. It is clean and very luxurious. The location could not be better, inbetween Disney, Universal and Sea World. Great Pool.

Our first time in Florida. the two bd unit in the back of the complex was wonderful! Great pool, close to nice shopping center, fun bar and snack bar. Will go back soon.

I thought this resort was extremely nice. We stayed in February and had a great time.

There were a couple of days that housekeeping didn't show up (they obviously were short staffed that week).

This is a first-class resort. We were treated very well by the staff and our 2 bedroom unit was in absolute perfect condition. The unit was very large and could easily accomidate 2 families. I found that the quiet pool was very nice for the adults while the kids enjoyed the large pool with the waterfall. Ate at the snack bar and the food was good and the bartender Scott treated us well. Look forward to returning.

This resort is very nice - beautiful pool and rooms. The two bedroom unit was very nicely appointed and layed out. The children could not be heard in their room! We enjoyed it very much and highly recommend it.

Downside is that it is on International Drive and you could hear the traffic from your balcony (especially for those units on the upper floors). Also, we stayed in the resort in Feb 2003. I believe the resort opened in 2000. If more attention is not given to maintenance now (little stuff), I can see this property looking worn in a couple of years. No problem now though. Also, don't rely on the shuttle service to the theme parks. It is very limited in both capacity and pick-up / drop-off times.

Just returned, the first time staying there, and can't wait to go back. Absolutely beautiful pool, and facilities. It was cool when we were there, but the pool was 100 degrees and we swam anyway! This is a quieter resort than the vistana, staff could not do enough for us!