Q & A with Mark Moravec, Sonesta Hotel Orlando Downtown General Manager
Looking for energy efficient, centrally located and green oriented hotel that caters to the corporate client, then think Sonesta Hotel in downtown Orlando. This less than one year old recently purchased ex-Sheraton is undergoing a green evolution according to General Manager Mark Moravec. Located on Lake Ivanhoe, with 341 spacious and contemporary decorated guest rooms it offers comfort in an urban environment with easy access to shopping, downtown businesses, entertainment and cultural attractions. Only blocks away is Interstate-4 (cross town expressway) ensuring rapid access to local and more distant tourism attractions?
It’s presently undergoing green oriented renovations, including a new four million dollar energy efficient air conditioning system, new fitness center/sauna, kitchen and health oriented menu. Moravec says, as part of the change, classic old time dessert favorites, like ice cream sundaes, shakes and banana splits will find their way onto the menu. More green initiatives like low water maintenance plants will accompany the already in place use of recycled paper, energy efficient lights, low flow water systems, and reusable air filters. The State of Florida verifies these changes in order for hotels to be listed as “green.”
Sonesta’s clientele are predominately corporate (approximately 75%), with professionals, doctors and lawyers adding to the mix with its major hospitals and city and federal court houses. Shuttles are provided to and from these establishments which are within a 5 mile radius.
With over 20,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting space, it can accommodate groups from 15 to 500 guests, and it has the largest hotel ballroom in downtown Orlando. Among its amenities are concierge, internet access, valet parking, dry cleaning and a business center. Its well known restaurant features imaginative and creative cuisine along with a Starbucks café in the lobby for that shot of espresso or latte for battery recharging.
A city-view swimming pool with hot tub and sun deck are located four stories up and gives one a spectacular view of the setting sun. These will be seeing changes including new fencing, lighting and water efficient plants notes Moravec. Museums, Science Center, theatre and golf clubs are nearby, with jogging around Lake Ivanhoe Park for the active minded. Other attractions include Universal Studios, Leu Gardens, Orlando Museum of Art, SeaWorld, Discovery Cove, Cirque de Soleil at Walt Disney World, Gatorland, Kennedy Space Center, Ripley’s Believe It or Not and many shopping outlets.
Thinking about Orlando, being it corporate or family then Sonesta should be high on your list of urban and sophisticated hotels to check out… You’ll find a friendly GM Mark Moravec and employees, excellent location, great food, inviting and relaxing rooms and plenty of nearby attractions.
