From the moment you drive up the tree-lined entryway to Rosen Shingle Creek, you know you’ve arrived in a very special place. Situated on 230 acres of lush landscape, Orlando’s newest meeting, convention and vacation hotel offers luxury accommodations, four pools, 18-hole golf course, spa and fitness center. Designed in Spanish revival architecture, the resort has 12 dining and refreshment choices including an Italian bistro, a classic steakhouse, a 24-hour New York-style market and ice cream parlor.

The lush backdrop and natural charms of early 1900s Florida sets the tone for the elegant, 1,500 guestrooms and suites. Our king suite was spacious and comfortable, with a stunning view of the golf course. Waking up to that view every morning certainly gave me reason to get out of bed!

The room featured a 32-inch flat screen TV, high-speed Internet access and other high-tech conveniences, creating a tuned-in, yet relaxed atmosphere.

One of the perks that comes with this type of accommodation is entry into the V.I.P. Concierge Lounge, which serves a daily continental breakfast, evening hors d’oeuvres at 6 p.m. and Petit Fours at 9 p.m. I especially appreciated the personal attention to detail I received. Every time I walked into the Lounge, a concierge ran to plug in a laptop computer and mouse, so I could check my email! That kind of service is one I will long remember.

After a long day of walking around Universal Studios, the Spa provided a delightful respite. I opted for the “Calusa Cocoon,” a hydrating body treatment using restorative oils in a warm, body wrap that left my skin feeling soft and smooth. I practically floated back to my room.

We escaped to the countryside of Tuscany for dinner at Cala Bella featuring gourmet Italian, inspired by Mediterranean and American classics. Their signature dish, Cala Bella Lamb, was outstanding. But I left room for their signature dessert, Chocolate Sabayon, topped with the restaurant’s logo in hard chocolate.

On another night, we dined at The Land Remembered, named after Patrick Smith’s rich novel about Florida’s historical moments and landscapes. At this fabulous steakhouse, I chose the Punta Rassa Skirt Steak, topped with Oregon Blue Cheese and Gator Drool Beer Braised Collard Greens. Located in the Golf Clubhouse, it was the perfect way to end a day on the course.

After spending a few wonderful days at this luxurious retreat, I came to realize that Rosen Shingle Creek is a destination unto itself!

Rosen Shingle Creek
9939 Universal Blvd.
Orlando, Florida 32819
Tel: (866) 996-6338
www.rosenshinglecreek.com

-Written by Mira Temkin (mtemkin967@aol.com)

Mira Temkin is a Chicago-based freelance writer specializing in advertising, promotional marketing and public relations. As a travel journalist, she has ventured across Europe and visited most of the Caribbean Islands. Her articles have appeared in six00threefive magazine, Suburban Woman Publications, Remarkable Woman Magazine, Smart Woman Chicago and Travel Today.