The pool area is very nice. The pool bar also serves food. We didn't eat there, but saw several people eating. We found the food at the Griaffe Grill very good and I'm sure they also serve the pool area. You're right, even with a mild winter it is nice to see "green and flowers" I never mentioned the lack of crowds during our trip. We never had to wait for any ride or Character greeting more than 10-15 minutes. My daughter rode Rock'n'Roll Roller Coaster three times in a row on Monday morning without waiting. She also got picked to be one of the cast for Indiana Jones. She had not see the show before, so she was quite surprised when the guy standing next to her fell to the ground after being punched.
We also walked right on to Test Track. This will spoil us for future visits!!
Hope this info helps.