Been to Amelia Island Plantation recently? Is the construction disruptive?

[Anonymous]

Looking for input from recent travelers to the Omni Amelia Island Plantation...?

I have been mulling over upgrading my accomodations on Amelia Island to one of the villa suites at the AI Plantation, but I hear the main pool construction is still in full swing.

Our youngest is too young for their kid's club. I am concerned I am going to be paying a premium for basically a bouncy house slip-n-slide and to listen to construction noise.

I figure we might stay at an OK residential style chain this time and come back another year when the work is finished and get more out of the added expense (or hit the Ritz when youngest DC turns 5.) On the other hand it's clear the grounds are very nice, is it worth the switch? I figure adding in breakfast and resort fees I am looking at at least $200 a night more. I am agonzing that I am going to get to Fernandina Beach and kick myself for not booking there.

[Anonymous]

Good Afternoon, thank you for your inquiry about Omni Amelia Island Plantation. I am a representative for the property so I wanted to let you know that you are correct about the renovation. We are in the midst of a major construction project and the hotel pool is closed and will be closed until spring 2013. Our guests have access to an outdoor heated pool at the Dunes Club villas and an indoor pool at the Health & Fitness Center. As you mentioned we do have activities planned for our vast 3.5 miles of beach as well as beachside food & beverage service. Our villas are spread out across 1,350-acres so you have the convenience of staying further away from the construction points focused around the hotel where a new hotel tower, pool deck and additional function space are currently being built. The roadways and pathways directly around the hotel are also affected by this. Throughout the duration guests that stay at the hotel will have their resort fees waived and we encourage all guests to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the plantation and the island despite the construction. Our property shuttle will bring guests to our shopping village, spa, nature center, restaurants, golf courses and tennis courts, as well as picturesque downtown Fernandina Beach. Additional fees may apply.

We understand the importance of travel decisions so please feel free to call us at 800-554-4200 if you have any other questions and we encourage you to speak to others about their experiences.