Having stayed at the Dolphin numerous times, I will write about our experiences for my 100th review for Trip Advisor.

The Dolphin is larger of the two properties, the Swan being the other. They both share a wonderful pool complex, and basically everything is interchangeable. It is a Starwood property and you can earn points.

Both properties are in easy walking distance to Disney’s Boardwalk area, Epcot and even Hollywood Studies. You can elect to walk or even take a free boat ride from designated spots. The boat ride is relaxing, but it can take little more time with several stops. Staying at these properties saves you about twenty or more minutes from taking a bus from the hotels along Buena Vista drive. Then, too, you can reach any park by taking the Disney busses at each location.

We always try for a “deal” staying here on-line. Asking for the best view is not a bad idea either. When the economy fell back in 2009, it was the best time to come. We received a room on the “upper” floors and got to see the fireworks.

This past time, I forgot to ask about a room with “a view,” and we were given a room in “no-man’s-land,” a very long walk to and from the elevator. The view from the room was of the back parking area where the workers catch the busses and smoke.

The most unusual experience was being given a room with “a view” and we walked in on someone already staying in the room. Opps! We should have made a big deal out of this, but did not.

We usually stay at least two days during the Wine and Food Festival from September to November every year. It is so nice to take a nap mid-afternoon from a jaunt around the Showcase. There is a date when the hotels do their own “Wine and Food Festival,” which is during Epcot’s Wine and Food Festival.

In early October there is a week filled with a “computer conference,” the Dolphins largest conference of the year. It is quite elaborate with special tents that take up quite a bit of parking space. You may not be able to get a room at this time.

We did have a French and Onion soup at Shula’s Restaurant located at the Dolphin. For $15, it was the most expensive soup I ever ordered. There is a “food package” that Disney offers, but we have never done that experience.

We love to come around Christmas tand walk around the impressive foyer/hall area. A large “man-made” Christmas tree decorates the main hall with a miniature train that goes around the tree.

One of the other main reasons we stay at the Dolphin is for its wonderful “waterfall” pool area. The waterfall is about 12 or more feet high, and the message you get on your back and head is incredible. The sound of the waterfall, too, is majestic. I was disappointed one year in early November that the waterfall was turned off. The breeze from the waterfall was just too cold for the patrons.

There are actually several pools. There is the large “waterfall” area pool, a pool for the children, a large hot tub and even two Olympic size lap pools at both hotels. I always bring my swim goggles for a good exercise. A restaurant by the pools will serve you food and drinks.

A workout area for this resort is superb. It is large enough so you do not feel crowded.

Miniature golf, Fantasia, is just across the street by the pools. There are actually two courses, one much harder than the other.

The grounds are impeccable. We love the large Dolphin fountain. It is quite impressive at night with various lights that reflect off the fountain.

There is a resort and parking fee associated with these properties. Most if not all properties close to Disney have these fees though. We would not hesitate staying here again if the price is right. It is definitely a treat and an experience you will never forget.