Emphasis added

The cheaper rates will also come with fewer amenities. Like guests in the three existing hotels, travelers booking rooms in Cabana Bay will get early admission to Universal Orlando's theme parks. But unlike guests in the other hotels, they will not receive complimentary front-of-the-line ride passes.

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/travel/vacation-starter/attractions/universal-orlando/os-universal-orlando-new-hotel-20120709,0,6195386.story

That's the first thing I looked for, too.

Exciting that they'll finally have a value resort, but to remove such a magnificent perk doesn't make it much more appealing than the often-great hotels just outside the resort that are a 10 - 15 minute walk to the park gates.

Granted, I wouldn't expect the unlimited variety from a value room since that would de-value the pricy hotels there, but why not their "once-per-ride" regular Universal Express that you can purchase at the park?

" Not including front-of-the-line privileges with the new hotel could also dissuade travelers from trading down from the higher-priced resorts, ensuring that the new hotel doesn't cannibalize their bookings."

I thought that was an interesting (and accurate) statement. I probably wouldn't consider trading down from the Royal Pacific just due to that one missing perk. Other amenities--decor, onsite restaurants, etc--wouldn't mean that much to me, but losing Universal Express would.

I didn't see what they were projecting for the average rate at this hotel. (Although, I'm guessing if their goal is to compete with the Disney value resorts, I'd guess in the sub $100 range.). I think I can usually book Royal Pacific for around $200 in February

I just booked a trip in august for 2 people staying at the hard rock for 3 nights and 2 day park ticket for 250 per person..... thats not counting extras (like food)

Universal needs to focus on more rides, not hotels...(talking about Universal side, Islands is great).

You say rides... They say simulators!

And I say "boo."

UOR has a lot on their plate! JAWS area, games in simpsons area, the building they just toke down, a hotel, and HHN houses!

edit: every day maintance and fixing rides too!

When you truly think about it, all four Disney parks and both Universal parks are basically dark rides and simulators. Islands of Adventure has three full-sized coasters. The Magic Kingdom has two. Hollywood Studios has one. The only Florida park with major rides is Busch Gardens. That's just not the climate down there. People want full-fledged, immersive experiences. Islands of Adventure bumps it up a notch in the thrill department, but what are it's key rides? Harry Potter, Spider-Man, Cat in the Hat, Jurassic Park, etc... Not major roller coasters.

And I think it works for Orlando. Seasonal parks offer the thrill rides for thrill seekers. Orlando really hits that niche that people want.

Florida is also a much older state (as in age of residents) and one of the most attractive family destinations in the World.