Is It Worth It?

By Lori Rodgers –

Is it worth it to upgrade to a room with a balcony?

Arrived at Championsgate Resort today, on a February afternoon in Central Florida.  Checked into my 8^th floor King room with a balcony right around 5 PM. I’m dead centre on the “adult”pool where a private reception was being prepared. Long-range views over the lakes and golf course as the sun was setting were accented by the live guitar player strumming some oldie goldies which at the moment include Norwegian Wood. You know the song by the Beatles…”I once had a girl, or should I say she once had me”. Wait… now he’s singing! And he’s good! The sky is turning the most incredible shades of purple, peach and gray. I truly feel that I could reach out and touch the sky. So content.

Uh oh…the aromas of the private party’s food are wafting up to my 8^th floor balcony. Yes, I have a bottle of wine and some “pickies”that I brought with me but their food smells SO good. And the music stopped so the President or CEO or whatever of the organization putting on this shindig could say a few words. Problem is we can’t hear a word he is saying. Minutes go by. The sky is turning into a painter’s fantasy. Okay,  I think he is making his concluding remarks. Yes. Light applause. Now back to the music? Yay! The sun has set, I have some gorgeous sunset photos, the temp is dropping and the breeze is picking up. Hmm…I may have to venture to one of the many gastronomic offerings at the hotel.

So the answer to ITWI is a resounding YES!

Side note: Why am I the only resort guest thoroughly enjoying her balcony? I think more of our readers need to pony up the extra $30, plan to arrive at least one hour before sunset, well stocked with food and beverages of course, and enjoy the damn balcony!

Lori Rodgers – Lori’s passion for food and fine dining began at an early age. She started reading Gourmet at 8, and was fortunate to have a father who included her in his travels to cites across the US, often frequenting restaurants she had read about in the magazine. After studying hotel and restaurant management at FSU for two years and thoroughly enjoying the summer program in Switzerland, she graduated with a degree in International Business with a minor in Spanish. Lori owned and operated the family business, Bert Rodgers Schools of Real Estate for 25 years, indulging her cooking hobby by whipping up meals for family and friends on the weekends. She has two teenagers who have adopted a vegan lifestyle, adding a new challenge to Lori’s cooking repertoire. Lori recently sold the business and is embarking on a new chapter and new career, returning to her true calling, cooking and exploring the multifaceted world of food!