Hiya Mosche! Welcome to planDisney. I'm happy to answer your question today!
"Official Disney Hotels" are known as Disney Resorts Collection Hotels. These are
hotels that are on Walt Disney World Resort property, are owned by the
Walt Disney Company, and not only provide Disney theming and are run by world-class
Cast Members, they provide the most perks when it comes to accessing the theme parks. For example, these hotels provide complimentary transportation to the theme parks and
Disney Springs, offer options like Early Theme Park Entry, and, for deluxe resorts, Extended Evening Theme Park Hours. In contrast, Gateway Hotels are not owned by Disney, but sometimes partner with Disney to offer some of these perks, but usually not all. If you are looking at a Gateway Hotel, just make sure that you have checked to see what benefits are offered, any theme park perks, what transportation they may offer to the theme parks, and if that transportation is included with the cost of your stay.
When booking a vacation for my family and me, we always choose a Disney Resorts Collection Hotel. And yes, we love the perks of staying in an official Disney hotel. Those Early Theme Park Hours come in very handy when you want to ride the most popular attractions at the resort. But the real reason we make sure to book an "official Disney hotel" is that even when we are not in a theme park, we are in a hotel that continues to immerse us in Disney magic. The whimsical touches in the decor, the smiles of the friendly Cast Members, and some of the best restaurant options at the resort are just some of the reasons we choose to stay at a Disney Resorts Collection Hotel time after time.
Moshe, I hope you have a wonderful vacation, no matter where you choose to stay. If you have any other questions,
please don't hesitate to reach out again.
They say if you dream a thing more than once, it's sure to come true,
Matt