Avanti International Resort

This hotel is a housed in four four-story white and yellow motel-style buildings with exterior hallways and parking right outside the rooms. That layout says a lot about this property, which takes the simplicity of motels and pairs it with a number of features that create a casual, resort-like package. The lobby is bright and open, with colorful accents throughout. Contemporary seating is a mix of lime green, fuchsia, aqua, bright orange, and taupe, and the tiled floor and lighting fixtures also have pops of color. The reception desk is backed by bright pink contemporary artwork. It's a hip, youthful vibe that also feels somewhat European. The pool and recreation areas are in the center of the complex, and serve as the social hub. With its central location and reasonable rates, the hotel draws a mix of families and couples.

This hotel is located in the heart of International Drive, within walking distance of numerous restaurants. It provides a free shuttle to the theme parks, which are about 15 minutes away. The Orange County Convention Center is about a 15-minute walk, or short drive, and an iRide Trolley stop is close by for getting there and to other places along International Drive. With so many nearby restaurants, a free shuttle, and the iRide Trolley, the location is convenient for guests who do not have cars. For those who do, self-parking is free. Orlando International Airport is about 20 minutes away by car, or a little over an hour by public transportation. 

Rooms and suites are modern and fresh, with simple decor, including tiled floors, white walls and window coverings, clean-lined dark wood furniture, and white bed linens with purple toppers and skirts. Bright orange or lime green desk chairs add another splash of color. All rooms have flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, microwaves, mini-fridges, and work desks. Most bathrooms also are modern, with granite countertops, hairdryers, coffeemakers, and toiletries, although some bathrooms are still in need of an overhaul. Shower/tub combos are tiled, and some Premium King rooms have whirlpool tubs in the bedroom area, too. Suites have separate living areas with sofa beds. Some rooms look out over the outdoor pool, but others face the parking lot. Rooms in back next to the interstate may pick up traffic noise. 

While the layout and style here is entirely mid-range, there are enough features on-site to make this a solid option compared to higher-priced resorts in the area. Guests can start their day with a sit-down breakfast at the Cafe & Marketplace, or get a quick Starbucks coffee pastries to go. This casual spot also serves lunch and dinner, with a menu featuring sandwiches, pizzas, salads, pastas, and grilled items. It double as a mini-market selling snacks and drinks, as well as T-shirts and travel essentials. Guests at the pool can get drinks and snacks at the pool bar, and room service is available as well. The sprawling outdoor pool and whirlpool are surrounded by a concrete deck. White lounge chairs have lime green covers and are shaded by lime green umbrellas. Palm trees add a tropical flavor and a bit of shade. For the kids, there's a shallow area with splash features. The fitness center has a variety of cardio and weight-training machines, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the pool. A game room next to the fitness center offers air hockey tables and a number of arcade games. There's also a shuffle board area on the lawn next to the pool, and a sandy volleyball court. A resort fee applies to cover recreation, including the pool, hot tub, game room, and fitness center, as well as Wi-Fi, parking, and the shuttle. Coin-operated laundry facilities are found in each building. The hotel's flexible events spaces can accommodate groups large or small, up to about 300 people for a reception. A business center provides computers for guests to use.