The screen canopies keep the bugs (and alligators?) out, but let the sunlight in. The houses are fairly close together, and the backyards don't offer much privacy. Best Western's guest directory warns that nude sunbathing is against Florida laws, but with some discretion guests could, um, skirt the law without too much fear of discovery.
All of the pools also come with what Best Western calls, "garden tubs." The clever term disguises the fact that these are not hot tubs. Depending on the weather and time of season, it's not particularly enjoyable to hop into a bordering-on-cold tub.
In fact, for about four months out of the year, the pools and tubs are essentially unusable without a pool heater. And heating the pools cost extra. (For 2003, it's $35 a day.) It takes a good two days to fully heat the pool, so it's best to ask for pre-heating if you want it to be ready upon arrival. Since the pools are among the most prominent features of the homes, it would seem to make more sense for Best Western to build the price of heating them into the overall fee, rather than tacking on an extra charge.
Other optional charges include gas grill rentals, stereo systems, cribs and highchairs, and late checkout. Greens fees at the pay-as-you-play golf course cost a reasonable $35 in 2003 (less at twilight) and include a cart.
