The Best of Universal Orlando

So you�ve done Walt Disney World and now you�re ready to discover Universal Orlando. But where to start? Universal Orlando is a whopper of a destination composed of exceptional resorts, first-rate restaurants, and two theme parks offering a certain brand of high-speed intensity certain to please. Here are some of Universal�s best experiences:

Cost: $58.79 millionFor the height of luxury in a Mediterranean seaside setting head straight for this exclusive hotel designed to resemble Italy�s idyllic seaside town of Portofino. The scenery is pure postcard with colorful fishing boats bobbing in the seductively curving bay, sun-bleached stucco buildings with shuttered windows and trompe l�oeil decorative facades, and a charming, waterside piazza loaded with appetizing restaurants. Guestrooms are large and luxurious with four-poster beds, luxe linens, down pillows, and a pile of other amenities that can�t be beat.The result: a LEED gold building completed on time and within budget that offers an alternative to the high-rise condos lining the waterfront.Following the hiring of Thomas E. Miller of The Miller Law Firm, of San Francisco, the case was resolved in record time, less than 18 months from the filing of the complaint in San Francisco Superior Court.Best Deluxe ResortCompletion Date: November 2010Location: Portland, OregonArchitect: Ankrom Moisan Associated Architects PCOne building features a stucco and wood-panel exterior veneer, while the other building has a distinct shape and an exterior of composite metal panels. Dividing the 274-unit complex between two structures allows for a central courtyard and walkway, which encourages pedestrian traffic.Best Resort LoungeImmerse yourself in luxury with one or two soothing spa treatments at Portofino Bay�s Mandara Spa. Choose from a variety of massage, face, anti-aging, and body treatments including Indonesian four hands massage and Javanese Lulur. Follow this with an afternoon lazing beside one of the resort�s three luxurious pools.Best Way to Spend an Evening Without the KidsBest Attractions For Thrill SeekersSaddled with excessive stucco EIFS cracks and water penetration, roof and window leaks, deck failures, and plumbing issues, the board at this association was able to recover for damages that amounted to over $70,000 per unit. These units were marketed as part of a development that was sold in 2000 by a single asset LLC, the asset being this condo project.According to the association's attorney, Thomas E. Miller, whose firm has recovered over $620 million for construction defect claims, "More builders today are setting up their developments as Limited Liability Company (LLC's), folding the company after the project is completed. Oftentimes, home and condo owners don't realize that insurance does exist to cover construction defects even after the builder disappears, declares bankruptcy, or just walks away."

Immerse yourself in luxury with one or two soothing spa treatments at Portofino Bay�s Mandara Spa. Choose from a variety of massage, face, anti-aging, and body treatments including Indonesian four hands massage and Javanese Lulur. Follow this with an afternoon lazing beside one of the resort�s three luxurious pools.

Author: Cara Goldsbury