This Universal Studios Hotel is WAY BETTER Than Disney - - Portofino Bay Tour

[@TheGoofy1932]

Absolutely Gorgeous Hotel. We've stayed here many times- Both more luxurious and less expensive than what Disney is offering these days. Plus Free Express Pass during your full stay-Including your Check Out Day! Universal is giving that 90's Disney service.

[@amy_soucy]

That is how we felt, just returned 10 days ago from this resort. We also stayed at disney AKL and that was comparable, but the parks experience was 5 out of 5 at Universal with express pass. Disney genie was so dang awkward and constricting.

[@KayCeeTX21]

OMG you nailed it. A 90’s disney service. Yep. I mean even in 2006 it was possible to get some decent experiences at WDW. Hoping to get that magical feeling again. ❤️

[@sotofamily4318]

Yes! We love this hotel ! Everything is wonderful and the service is amazing 🤩

[@rafven7594]

As an italian allears fan I can say that it's the most authentic Italian recreation I've ever seen abroad.

[@kyogresfunchannel]

Universal Doing Better Italy than Disney You Love to See it

[@liamcollinson5695]

What about hotel Colosseo at Europa park it's not as big a portofino bay but looks as good or maybe even better to me. Portofino bay does look lovely thoughbi just find the inside a bit bland even though they is marble every where

[@gamberlane]

This is what the Riviera resort SHOULD be.

[@thesweetestbear]

can we all agree that molly has such a cool job??

[@pattykochenower4222]

The best !

[@sourcandy770]

Rip

[@nettesmith9278]

This makes me legit consider Universal, which is something I NEVER thought I’d say. Side note…your fresh face is absolutely stunning!!

[@aLy0op]

I will shout it from the rooftops but universal's texting option for the hotels is my favorite feature. They are real front desk people and they can help you with anything. It's amazing.

[@christine3507]

Agreed! FYI - Swan & Dolphin over at Disney have a similar texting feature.

[@Coasterkingg]

It’s the best thing ever

[@benrothman2055]

I love Portofino! Pro tip: the Starbucks at the resort is much, much more expensive than the Citywalk or even in-park Starbucks location.

[@NisaNJames]

Universal is sounding better and better!

[@gmkarliah6528]

Not shocked Universal did something better. I love Disney but their prices definitely exceed the value.

[@CritterKeeper01]

When we stayed at Sapphire Falls in 2019, my sister and I agreed that our favorite ride of the whole trip was the water taxi to and from the hotel! It was so nice to be able to just board a boat and cruise to the parks in the morning, and especially back in the evening. Relaxing boat ride plus less walking, fresh air instead of bus fumes, it was a great way to end the day!

[@lindajmaglionico]

When Molly reviewed Royal Pacific & mentioned the complimentary express pass, I was sold. I booked 2 nights at Royal Pacific during my trip this past January and it was GREAT. Lovely hotel, easy walk to the park, wonderful boat ride back ... and that express pass is the bomb. Really awesome and you don't need to watch a million training videos on how to use it. (Unlike Genie+)

[@eileendaub3643]

Stayed here on my first and only trip to Universal in May thanks to the generosity of a friend's employee discount and OMG it was amazing! So special (even if I did get lost a couple times trying to find my room in the east wing). I never even had time to see a lot of it. I enjoyed the boat and the walk....maybe went 50/50 on each of them.

[@hanC21317]

This resort looks absolutely incredible. The pirate pool area is sooo cool!!! The whole theme is just so immersive and beautiful. 10/10 on the bucket list. Thanks Molly for the great review!

[@audrees.properties]

I love that the balcony is walled off on each side. I’ve only stayed at two disney resorts to compare this but they both had bathroom stall walls on the side of the balcony lol it felt funny when both us and our neighbors were out there. You can hear EVERYTHING 😂

[@greatone33j]

We had dinner at Mama Dela's and there was a group of three singers going table to table singing requested songs. There was one guy who sang with such passion that he made my wife cry. She had no clue what he was saying, but his voice was so powerful that he made her cry. Incredible experience.

[@merkerb]

Universal has dramatically stepped up their food game in all areas! I had my first stay at universal Orlando in probably 15 years in late 2020, and the only things that impressed me more than the quality of the food now was how great the parks were being run and how absolutely AMAZING the customer service was!!!

[@andromedaspark2241]

Universal sadly isn't great for those of us with food allergies. In a lot of ways I like staying at Universal much better but at Disney, for once can eat almost anywhere just like anyone else. If Universal could improve that, it'd just be heaven.

[@TheGoofy1932]

Absolutely agree. I quit going to Universal at All for about 15 years too. I am a DVC member (about 12 years) as well as an AP ( over 30 years), and I was very pleasantly surprised when we stayed at Portofino and spent 2 days at their parks. It was like being back in old school Disney, but with good food- even their quick service options were good 👍. Whereas, we typically steer clear of Disney Park quick service with very few exceptions (Satuli, Casey's, Andy's L.B.and Columbia Harbor House- although the last time we went to CHH it was Not their best showing). But Universal has done a complete 180, especially in respect to their guest service. That was honestly the biggest reason for our extended hiatus from them. Now though I'm starting to feel that way whenever we go to Disney. So I guess Universal wants my 💰.

[@merkerb]

@@TheGoofy1932 plus it sure is nice to just go the the park you want in universal when you have your ticket and not have to make a reservation to get in 😂

[@1978rga]

I’m with Ross Gellar and Molly- got to take all the luxurious hotel toiletries! Thanks for the Friends reference and amazing tour!!

[@katierowen3166]

That resort looks absolutely amazing!!! Your view was like a painting. And it’s actually a pretty good deal with all of the perks especially the express pass.

[@lynnedavenport3298]

Hats off to the editor. That Giada meme was just too funny!

[@ktpaladino]

My husband always says he will forever regret not being prepared to propose on the “bay” here. It really is so pretty

[@MelissaH1977]

Stayed there for my honeymoon in 2013, we were granted an upgrade to the governors suite and it was totally amazing.

[@SunderAT]

We stayed at Portofino in December of 2021 and loved it. The included Express Pass and proximity to the parks made for a very stress free theme park vacation when compared to our previous Disney trips. Much better value for the money at Portofino.

[@alisachamoy225]

Molly - you helped me prepare for my Disney trip and now you are doing that for my Universal trip - thanks so much for being so thorough, helpful and funny :)

[@cdpa4d]

This is my favorite resort in all of Orlando. Very underrated in my opinion.

[@danasandoval624]

This is where we stay when we go to Universal and we love it. Express pass included, water taxi, beautiful setting and friendly helpful staff.

[@Travelinman777]

Thank you very much, Molly! I stayed there 10 years ago for the first time at a Harry Potter conference for the HPEF. Apparently it was their last year of doing a conference. There were so many great Wizard Wrockers there like Lena Gabriel of The Butterbeer Experience, Lauren Fairweather of The Moaning Myrtles, Matt Magacimo of The Whomping Willows, and more. Chris Rankin (Percy Weasley) and Afshan Azad (Padma Patil) were also there at the conference. This event was my first time traveling by myself. That experience with Portofino was so great, I made it a point to stay there any time I had the opportunity to go to the parks. It did t happen again until several years later. When I took my girlfriend there September 1st, 2017, when I proposed to her in front of Hogwarts by the stage where the Beau Batons girls, Durmstrang guys, and frog choir perform. She said yes. Now we’ll know to enjoy the Bice atmosphere and end the night with a nice gelato! Thank you again, Molly. I’ll show my best girl this video toot sweet.

[@RSW552]

Let's be real, Molly's hair is the star of this review.

[@BenicioW2011]

And her makeup! 💋 💄

[@RSW552]

@@BenicioW2011 She's a rock star. 🤘

[@blane6592]

OMG…it’s soooooo GOOD!!!

[@pattykochenower4222]

Yes, very pretty ! Love ya Molly !

[@carriew7921]

Lol Molly you know all the important Italian words lol

[@rachelgood765]

This looks like an amazing resort!!! This might be the one my hubby and I stay in! Thanks molly for another great video!!! 🥰

[@jackshea4470]

We stayed there in December and didn't even think about the pool. My kids 💞💕💞 this Hotel. My daughter's Italian teacher, who grew up in Italy, liked her instagram pics. The Christmas decor was 🤌🏼. The express pass perk 🤩. I chose Universal this time, even though we own DVC because WDW is just sooooo extra right now. Extra complications with park reservations, LL, Genie]+ and extra 💰. Universal Orlando was easy breezy

[@lucillegass4715]

10*10*10 this is probably the best video I've seen this year! I literally had my jaw on the ground! The food! The resort! The music! Unbelievable you would swear your in italy!! Thank you for taking us there!!!! Never knew about it before!😇

[@katherinedeliberatefare]

Molly! Thank you for covering gluten-friendly snacks at Portofino. This resort looks great - what a spectacular view! As always, I enjoy your fun take. And, it makes me feel normal to hear you get lost in these giant hotels, too! :)

[@cozy.kendall]

Portofino is the best hotel I've ever stayed at, it's so beautiful and immersive. And you get the Express Pass for free!

[@cherylw.2918]

Molly… all of your videos just make my day! You are AWSOME!

[@andromedaspark2241]

Universal has great hotels. Hard Rock is a short walk from this one. They both are beautiful and Portofino is so beautiful lit up at night. The boat ride to Universal is lovely.

[@theJakobsFromEverywhere]

You aren't alone In the love for Fast and the furious ride. It's amazingly cheesy and the Vin Diesel size helicopter is my family's favorite. Loving universal a lot lately.

[@Morsy933]

Mooolly!!! Come to Italy!!! You have fans here! (It's me, I'm the Italian fan)

[@susanchalmers7063]

Loved the Portofino!! Can’t wait to go back!!

[@giabarletta5929]

Molly I am OBSESSED with those earrings you wore to dinner. Please link!

[@courtneyceasar7878]

Excellent video! Thank you Molly! This was much needed information for my future stay!!

[@Tommy-B.]

I stayed 2 years ago. I loved the Italian joint downstairs. Nice comfy place. Semi-walkable. And I love the included front of line pass for the day before and after your stay. If I do Universal again, I will do Portofino. Update: Which Italian joint? Mama Della’s. Should have realized there were many.

[@LUCY.PARK.06]

I absolutely LOVE portofino Bay ❤❤ I love the atmosphere and the amazing perks definitely better than disney resorts of the same price point imo 👌 the first time I watched luca all I could think about was this resort 😆 funny story I took an Instagram picture at piazza and someone commented 'where in Italy was this picture taken because I would love to vist' and I had to tell them it was a theme park hotel not Italy 😅😅

[@danasandoval624]

There is a Portofino Bay in Italy the only difference if you look at photos is the real one has mountains in the background. Universal out did themselves.

[@AmberAHue82]

This looks amazing! I really appreciate the full resort tour, including the rooms. I have been thinking of doing 1 luxury night on my vacation at the Polynesian, but this is a new contender.

[@TheGoofy1932]

Plus, you could generally stay 2 nights here for what 1 night at the Poly will cost you. Don't get me wrong it's nice having a monorail just steps away, but dollar for dollar Universal is just a much better value presently.

[@AmberAHue82]

@@TheGoofy1932 if I do a luxury day, it's going to be a resort day anyway, so the monorail isn't a factor. I was thinking more of access to Trader Sam's and the Luau show (whenever it comes back). That villa might sway me the other way, though!

[@meganrenaeart]

It makes me legit giggle at how much I also enjoy the little bath soaps, shampoos, q-tips....... It's like oh hey, I spent a ton of money for a hotel but OMG the little bath amenities. I'm glad I'm not alone!

[@nicoleolmsted2327]

Same! I also love taking home hotel toiletries!

[@ladyjane8855]

My favorite resort! Stayed there many times and the Express passes are a game changer. Sometimes get the boat to Portofino for lunch during park days. Great food and no lines. Love the place - I'd live there if I could 😂

[@annadavis5585]

I stayed there with my husband for his company convention. I absolutely loved it!

[@808dazzlegal]

This is the resort we are staying at later this year. First half of our vacation will be at Disney & then we'll be here the 2nd half of our trip. Super excited. This resort is so beautiful.

[@larryweigand4454]

We had the Easter brunch there, could have been the best meal I’ve ever had. Left me speechless!

[@EddieT-hq1le]

Thank you for this video. What time of the year did you go?

[@mkweave8597]

Would love a tour of the endless summer resorts!

[@shiningstarsoup]

Thank you for this video, we are coming down from Canada in February and will be staying here - super excited to be staying in this hotel! ❤

[@Buckeye.belle330]

Completely off topic from the video-- can we talk about how pretty Molly looks with no make up on!? What great skin! I wasn't expecting that at all.

[@MikeWeida]

Love Portofino! Second bed hotel bed in my travels. It is huge great pool great food and beverage variety. Bice is amazing!

[@MicheleKlinger]

Portofino Bay is absolutely gorgeous. I’m much more of a stay on Disney property girl and taking a day for Universal, but I may have to consider this hotel for a Universal trip one day. After a very trying work week, I’ve been having a treat myself day, and a video of Molly treating herself at this resort is perfect entertainment to go along with this day.

[@maldo007]

Molly doing Quincy's bed science. Yes!

[@HandicappedMind]

we stayed at the portofino years ago on our last family trip to universal... nothing but good memories

[@tbmi1]

That pizza looks incredible. It looks like what we refer to as Roma pizza. It usually has really thin crust, which I really like (although not a deal breaker).

[@justjoni87]

Stayed here years ago, as a Lowes Hotel, it’s fur baby 🐕🐕‍🦺🐩friendly! They really treat your pups well! 🐾🐾🐾

[@monykalynf3604]

Wow-Sapphire Falls is my home but this may convince me try out portofino! Molly makes the BEST videos!

[@BenicioW2011]

Many many years ago (around year 2001) I spent two nights at this resort and wow, what a trip it was. I was single and in my 20’s and had a memorable night at thirsty fish with a group of friends and a lot of drinks then spent the next morning hung over at the pool. Felt like a rockstar. Thanks for the walk down memory lane. 🇮🇹 🕶 🍸

[@lukeniles9339]

We stayed there in September and were blown away. Great food and the access to the parks were awesome

[@disneynutd1609]

Thanks Molly. I think I need to add this hotel to my universal trip. Lol the editing was great on this. 🤣

[@gothgammy666]

Also Perfect timing I just booked for Halloween Horror nights staying here!!! Now I am more excited!

[@seancastillo1893]

Looks Like Tokyo DisneySea's Hotel Miracosta

[@zakenannie]

You do an amazingly thorough review on the hotels!!!

[@anthonylagano2371]

I love Portofino. Booked for late September. Price was $475 a night even with Florida resident rate but worth it . Great tour 😎😎😎

[@texasburbs4380]

This is fabulous, thank you. We are going to try to go early January 2023.

[@natale0813]

I'm so jealous right now.we were there last year loved it my favorite resort .Have fun.

[@pattykochenower4222]

That is really beautiful there, I definitely want to stay there soon! The express pass option is really a great deal!!! Thanks for a great review!!

[@susandaquila-babuschak3077]

We love Portofino, but usually don’t take advantage of all the amazing food and things to do when we stay there. That definitely will be changing now that I’ve seen this video! Also Molly my husband and I are the exact same way, we love 2 queen rooms to use the other bed for our suitcases and absolutely never unpack, so I’m glad to know I’m not alone in that 🤣

[@largol33t1]

My room key at Cabana Bay had the Simpsons on it. If they gave me Molly's room card, I'd sneak it home because of the hilarious picture of Vin Diesel hanging off that verrry tiny helicopter. 😂

[@Parkhopper1985]

In 2021 we stayed at Portofino Bay, Royal Pacific & Hard Rock - WAY better deal than deluxe hotels at Disney. Express Pass and 1/2 the crowds than Disney

[@brooklynkey449]

Does everyone in your room get the express pass?

[@Parkhopper1985]

@@brooklynkey449 Yes, I believe it's up to 4 people get Express (they just need to be registered guests for that room) but they need to have park tickets or annual passes too

[@paulbrooks9546]

Gratzi por cumpliros de escenas de Italia en el Hotel area, los magnifico, magico y maravollioso tambien y ciao bella.👍🥂😎❤🙏👌❤🎹

[@camrynbell5060]

Molly Resort stays are my fav videos! This place looks incredible 🤩! The 🍕 👌🏻

[@bigbluerios]

Is it unlimited express pass for the tickets purchased or just regular express?

[@hollyschlortt6826]

GREAT VIDEO! This was done at the perfect time; as we will be staying there three days next week for Spring Break! I am lucky that I made a reservation for Bice 60 days in advance. I can't wait to stay here!

[@desireepoe]

Your hair and makeup are flawless 😍

[@katielouise3924]

Just now watching this, but thank you, Molly & All Ears for this! I want to stay at Portofino Bay for my next vacation. That rate is what I pd. for a moderate at Disney. It is such a gorgeous property & glad the food is good!

[@kirsenmcneil6125]

Love you and Quincy!! I genuinely laugh at least once a video. Do you know how far in advance can you book a cabana?

[@sheilaahumada6647]

Love love love your makeup and hair!! You look much younger!! So beautiful!! Lovely place‼️ I will definitely put this place on my bucket list!! Thank you for all you do and share with us !! Love your videos!! God Bless ‼️❤️🙏

[@pandorat4574]

It looks amazing!! Reminds me a lot of Tokyo Disney Sea and MiraCosta Hotel tho😂

[@paulb9453]

The room includes Express Pass, that blitzes Disney Genie+, we walked straight into massive rides, very happy, more relaxing than a Disney Hotel.

[@krzyktty101]

We stayed there last summer and absolutely loved the hotel. We will probably do the hard rock next time though because at the end of the day that was a long walk.

[@mini_mew775]

It's definitely kicking Disney's butt with the benefits and even pricing! Love that they give you express AND early entry! While I would say it's worth the $$ I am a bit disappointed that the bathtub is so basic. For a luxury resort I would like a jacuzzi tub

[@Hirotoro4692]

Probably not a feature in a standard room

[@MrKelvin2230]

I saw you on friday, I think you were leaving Epcot, I was fan struck , didn't say hi becase you where vlogging, but still it was very excited for me :)

[@Lucyd525]

We’re staying here in September and I can’t wait!

[@patriciav.5166]

Molly I love your large sparkly hoop earrings! Where did you get them?

[@catmcross1]

I loved the Noodle reference!

[@krystinacarriglio9295]

Hi Molly! We met you and said hi at Bice. The food was delicious that night as well. We have stayed at portifino bay a few times and love it each time.

[@briansieve]

I love your resport tours. And you have such similar taste to me. Thank you.

[@TheFatesLieutenant]

"Don't look it up... just believe me...." Hahaha!

[@brclyn]

Portofino looked fantastic. Pricing was extremely good.

[@geetanjalisingh2602]

They are called "Water Taxi's". not boats! They clog the channels during the busy portions of the day.

[@suesims6538]

Thanks Molly for this review. After watching I have booked for 3 nights when we come to Orlando in 2023 and then doing 8 nights at WDW (4 nights Beach Club and 4 nights Coronado Springs). Have you stayed at Coronado Springs ? We have previously stayed at Beach Club but decided to do. Split stay to help with our budget

[@nicbarrax76]

Milk came out of my nose when Hannibal Lecter popped up! 😂😂😂😂😂

[@goebelsonthego5346]

I hope I get that room when we go in September!

[@dlfendel2844]

Looks superb Molly. Most of the other Universal Loews hotels seem to me to be very nice but very "generic business/airport hotel" in style re. rooms, etc. etc. This looks more fun, but a LONG way to walk around the property, of course. I think your prescription for a combo Disney/Universal stay is perfect--check in here as early as possible, relax/pool/spa/whatever after a late lunch, do a GREAT dinner, then check out leaving the bag and do Universal with the special access before coming back and then heading for Disney. Might try it soon! Thanks!

[@lisasecula4274]

You DEFINITELY got a NICE. upgrade. We've gotten the standard queen room twice, and we never had a separate shower. It's always the bathtub and useless dead space in the bathroom. We did get connected king rooms both times, so still tons of space. Not sure which hotel we're booking for this summer, yet. Part of me wants Portofino for the gorgeous pool and part of me wants Hard Rock or Royal Pacific for the cloesness to the park - the shorter walk is nice in the summer heat.

[@Toinfinitybeyond22]

Looks so pretty 😍 🇮🇹