This hotel made me realise I have started to take hotel standards for granted.

The Ramada Plaza on International Drive serves as a budget crash pad (by comparison to other hotels on International Drive: £58/night B&B via Travelbag) whilst you’re visiting the theme parks.

The air conditioning was very noisy but is a bit of a necessity in Florida.  Ear plugs were a simple solution.  The rooms are tired and showing signs of decades of neglect.

There is a shuttle service to the parks, but certainly for a Universal Studios, Island of Adventure and Volcano Bay, I’d recommend Uber for convenience and flexibility.

Ramada REALLY need to wise up to its environmental responsibilities. Polystyrene and plastic disposable cups, crockery and utensils for the breakfast service in this day and age?! Shocking (as was the standard of the breakfast offering) but it did inspire me to but a waffle maker on my return to the UK!

The draft beer at the bar was actually very good value compared to surrounding bars at $4 and was very tasty (Blue Moon).

There is a pleasant enough pool area over looking a lake stocked with carp.  You might see turtles and herons too.

Expect to drive to find somewhere good to eat in the evenings.  For an hours entertainment during your stay, out of the hotel and turn right, there’s a miniature golf course (with Gators) a short walk away (tucked back off the road, you might miss it if you’re not looking for it).

If you’re from the UK, do not expect the same standard as Ramada deliver in the UK.