Rosie,
I have a confession to make. I did not use to like staying at
Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort.
It is true! I thought the resort was too big and spread out, making for lots of long walks to get anywhere. I also was confused by what seemed like two lobby buildings. Don't get me wrong, the resort theme is great, and the relaxed-but-fun vibe is perfect for a vacation. The feature pool alone was a real treat for my family. But I just felt like I spent a lot of time walking places.
But don't let me bury the headline!
I love it now! Recent changes to the resort have made it a top recommendation. Among these changes, they removed many of the resort buildings to make room for the all-new
Disney's Riviera Resort. Then they added the
Disney Skyliner, which lets you soar to two theme parks in style.
Game changing!
But to your two questions, I prefer staying in the
Jamaica and
Barbados sections. They are close to the Skyliner station, which I use a lot on my trips. They also keep you close to the main resort building,
Old Port Royale, with its dining and shopping venues, and the resort pool. But these sections are also still just far enough away from that main area so that you don't feel like you have big crowds walking by your room constantly.
Now for my favorite subject:
Food! I typically will save any sit-down dining opportunities on my vacation for something in the parks, but I do find the resort has some great options as well.
Sebastian's Bistro is the resort's table service restaurant. They have some Caribbean inspired options that are fun, but not so exotic as to scare anyone off. Any of the entrees that feature a crab cake are always a good choice.
Centertown Market is the counter service dining option at the resort. I am not as much of a fan of the Market, and I would just go there for standard breakfast fare, or some basic sandwiches at lunch or dinner. If I wanted to eat, but did not want to go so far as a table service meal at Sebastian's, I would instead head over to
Banana Cabana, which is the pool bar at the main pool. It is one of the better pool bars at Walt Disney World, with great, covered outdoor seating. The appetizer menu is quite extensive, with the Conch Fritters being a personal favorite.
Finally,
Spyglass Grill is located not by the main pool, but by one of the quiet pools in the Trinidad section. With a menu of sandwiches and salads, it may not be destination dining. But if you are at that pool for a quieter break, it will take care of your hunger pangs in style.
Write me back if you have any follow-up questions.
Have a Magical Vacation!
Doug