His passion for the space mansion was tangible, but while he and I are clearly big kids, the same can’t be said for everyone. Some may hear the words ‘space mansion’ and assume that it’s one big tacky fever dream.
That really couldn’t be further from the truth. I like to think of it as a 3-for-1 deal – you’ve got the rocket room, the games area, and the small matter of the mansion itself, which you can clearly tell has been designed with a professional touch and is far from an afterthought in the whole process.
As I made the long journey around all 12 bedrooms and 14 bathrooms upon arrival, I never once got the sense of ‘that’ll do’. And that resonates with me as a self-admitted perfectionist.
I tried to fit in all of the amenities during our short stay, enjoying a couple of swims in the lagoon-style pool once the sweltering Florida sunshine had disappeared for the day, and getting up early to make use of the home gym and sauna before we departed.
But there was no time to enjoy a film in the top-floor cinema room, and – spoiler alert – Brad had given us the override code so we could fast-track the laser tag missions. You could easily not leave the four walls during the stay and not once have the slightest inkling of cabin fever.
However, being situated in the exclusive resort of Reunion means you’re just 15 minutes away from Disney World, 25 from Universal Studios, and roughly an hour from the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, which was the next stop on our trip (more on that to follow…). Naturally, that makes the property ideal for big family get-togethers.
Starting from $3,500 (roughly £2,500) a night, it goes without saying that you’d be best off joining forces as family, friends or even colleagues to bring the cost down. And the rocket room’s bunk beds are best suited for younger visitors, meaning the full capacity of 46 is perhaps closer to half of that when accounting for who would be able to split the bill.
But a once-in-a-lifetime holiday suddenly becomes a realistic possibility if you’re able to gather the numbers. A lift and a fully adapted king room on the ground floor offer ample access for all.
No one has to miss out on the fun, nor the little details dotted throughout. Adorning the long corridor on the second floor are 12 decorated pieces of luggage representing the 12 months of the year.
In the cowboy-themed games room, country icons Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson and Hank Williams watch over the competitors. A collection of boots with plants flowing out of the top cover another section of white wall.
It’s the extra attention to detail that reassures you this is anything but a money grab, and rather a labour of love. You truly need to see it with your own eyes to believe it.
It’s a bit of a cop out to say words – and pictures – don’t do this place justice, given that is my job. But I’d like to think that’s less a reflection of me, and rather because of the sheer extravagance of the property.
Book it
You can book a stay at the Morlando Space Mansion via Top Tier (www.reuniontoptier.com). Situated within the serene conservation area of Reunion Resort & Golf Club, the Morlando Space Mansion is a 16,000sq. ft holiday home that offers unparalleled luxury and entertainment. The price per night starts from $3,500 (around £2,584), fluctuating with season. It sleeps 46 people, which breaks down to $76 per person, or approx. £56 per person per night, if at capacity.
For further information on Kissimmee, visit www.experiencekissimmee.com
TUI (www.tui.co.uk) offers return flights to Melbourne Orlando Airport, Florida, from £362 per person. Price is based on two adults departing from London Gatwick, with 15kg hold luggage and 10kg hand luggage per person, plus complimentary meals and drinks. To book, go to tui.co.uk, visit your local TUI holiday store or download the app.