Also, Holiday Inn Closest to Universal (not the Holiday Inn Express). The hotels on Major Blvd. vary in cost and you should be able to find lots in there to suit any budget.
If you are planning on going to Universal, you might want to consider purchasing an off-site hotel package through the website. This will allow you to get early admission at both parks each day you are there.
http://www.universalorlando.com/Vacation-Packages/bf/Featured-Vacation-Packages.aspx
If you just purchase your hotel stay through the hotels themselves, you don't get the early admission.
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ol...just read the date on the original post. I think we are too late but hopefully the advice helps someone else!