The giant swan and dolphin statues remain at their posts atop the hotels; inside, though, some of the playful beach décor and color schemes have been refined. Taking a more upscale approach for its business and meeting clientele, this charming pair of Starwood-managed properties now emphasizes convenience and comfort with a total room renovation. Translation: high-speed Internet access and Heavenly Beds. Other key pieces of the redesign are bigger televisions, large desks, and well-lit work areas.

The new rooms were designed by Michael Graves, original architect of The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin, which opened 14 years ago.

In a tech development for meeting planners, the resort launched its online Group Reservations System. A group's room block, negotiated rate, and all restrictions are managed by the system. Online reports detail confirmed reservations and wait-list activity, and can be customized. Planners can use the system to add updated messages for attendees and access a section that links them directly to their hotel contacts for catering, convention services, or any facet of their program.

The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin offers 329,000 square feet of meeting space, 16 restaurants and lounges (including chef Todd English's funky bluezoo), five pools, two health clubs, and five nearby championship Walt Disney World Resort golf courses.