I went there in Aug. I booked my room in 大梅沙雅蘭酒店, family room, pretty good for summer as it is next to the beach.
But now in winter, it is kind of far from 華橋城, 5-10 mins walk to the 華橋城bus station.
I don't think you need to buy bus ticket here, more expensive. We went to Lo Wo and then took taxi to there, 25 mins, ~ RMB 60 sth, don't remember
I think it is better not to stay in 華橋城, very quiet at night time, besides, more food varieties out in the city. The seafood street is good choice, although the price is similar to hk (except the vege plates)
凌海 looks very old from outside and some bk moms said it is the same old inside too.
大梅沙芭堤雅酒店 is the closest actually, and I bought the park tickets there, they have package and is quite cheap (can bargain too). Must go to the spa inside 茵特拉根, very fun...