DIS Unlimited's Universal Show - A Discussion About All Things Universal Orlando

Our Honest Review of Universal Helios Grand Hotel

·47 min·4 clips

Ryno and Hannah reveal their surprising hot takes after a three-night stay at Universal's new Helios Grand Hotel.

The episode begins with Ryno and Hannah introducing their review of the Helios Grand Hotel, part of Universal's Signature Collection and one of three new hotels opening with Epic Universe. They outline the hotel's basics: 500 rooms, 35 suites, an exclusive entrance to Epic Universe, and views split between the park and Orlando. Hannah describes the lobby as small with floor-to-ceiling windows but not a hangout space, and the room decor as gold, blue, and mauve with a Greek Isles vibe. Ryno notes the hotel does not include Express Passes, with room rates starting around $350. The hosts debate the value, with Ryno stating he wouldn't stay at Helios for a full vacation unless he had a theme park view room, due to the high cost. Hannah compares room size to Sapphire Falls and appreciates the iPad controls for room functions. They discuss dining options, highlighting Flora Taverna for its atmosphere and Greek-inspired menu. The Lotus Lagoon pool receives high praise for its food, especially the kids' chicken tenders and fries, and poolside service. Bar Helios is critiqued for expensive cocktails and limited seating with good views. Hannah shares a negative experience with merchandise delivery where a vinyl record was sent to the wrong room, causing a two-hour wait. The hosts note service inconsistencies, with some staff being helpful and others dismissive. They conclude by recommending Helios for stays focused on Epic Universe, suggesting a split stay with hotels like Stella Nova for better value. The episode ends with a plug for Dreams Unlimited Travel and a call for listener questions.

As heard by us

A candid Helios Grand room review centered on comfort, practical tradeoffs, and the details Universal travelers notice.

Universal Helios Grand Hotel gets a practical, room-first review from Rhino and Dreams Unlimited travel agent Hannah Anderson, who weigh a three-night stay against the details that matter after a long park day.

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

Want an honest read on Helios Grand after Rhino and Hannah Anderson's three-night stay during Universal Epic Universe's opening?

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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