Have to agree with what everyone has said already about Shades of Green. Off and on since 2007 I have booked my reservation at Shades and have been wowed every time, regardless the time of the year.
Yes, just like mom stated above, I stayed at The Disney Inn twice, back in 1990 and then in 1993 with my family before my military days and the military invested into the resort, changed it, and expanded it, so I had some knowledge, but what AFRC has done to the place, it's outstanding. I'm considering treating my mom and dad after they treated me and my sisters way back when.
I'm tempted to book a vacation to Orlando and stay at Shades again this fall, due to the treatment that I receive, the respect and of course, the discount (no tax, and room rates based on rank). Even better the 30% discount on rack rates this fall. Could not believe I traveled solo in 2007 and got a room for my then-E4 rank for $89 a night, no tax, for a room that is basically a suite. Now I'm up to $95 a night, but it's an ultimate deal.
There are small touches of Disney (the military Mickey statue in the lobby), the patriotic Disney poster down the hall, and some nick-knacks here or there. But it really feels cool that when I leave the monorail at the Poly at night or the bus back to Poly or the TTC, I have a very nice walk through lush foliage, almost a jungle, and then a winding trail along a lagoon next to a golf course back to my room at Shades. A trail all to myself, sometimes. I'm all for walking, and it's great exercise, and it just reminds me of walking everywhere while in basic. And sometimes walking is just quicker than waiting. Just remember to wear 2 pairs of socks.
Bottom line, you get treated in the parks and other park-related locations just like you are a Disney guest. There really is no difference. But when it comes down to it, it's nice being in the world of Disney and having that little extra something that some of the other guests don't have access to, which is just like living on the garrison / base / camp - access to AAFES shoppette, limited groceries and a Class Six.
Also a cool thing -- you can reserve round-trip transportation (van / shuttle) to Sea World or Universal for $10. You have to schedule it a day ahead of time. Better than scheduling a Mears taxi / shuttle every time you have to go off Disney. Shades also helps you secure travel to Busch Gardens in Tampa.
If you don't go for the Disney package and the Magical Express / dining plan, the Mears shuttle is just as efficient -- $34 round trip / $21 one-way -- from Orlando International -
http://www.mearstransportation.com/. Although it's a sight to see all of the huge Disney buses at the airport with Magical Express guests, it's even cooler seeing no one at the Mears stand and waiting a fraction of the time to get on a shuttle to take you to Shades. I think it took me about a hour from plane to Mears to Shades.
Best of luck in your decision. And if you do decide to stay at a Disney resort instead, you still can get on Shades of Green to get your discounted park-hopper tickets (military promotion), if you do not purchase them at the fort.
and I DO love that it's so close to MK!
