Wilderness Campers pool hop on Easter Sunday

[chips]

We have gone to Wilderness for the last four Springs. We have had great vacations each time. Last trip we did the Sammy Duvall's parasailing and loved Expedition Everest. Good rooms, good housekeeping, good check ins.

However, either the Camper problem has gotten worse or I just notice it more.
On Easter weekend they took over the tables behind the Wildernes Pool Bar. On Saturday and Sunday they were there from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. They were smoking cigars and cigarettes everytime I walked by. Loud and pounding beers.

I went to the Contemporary Marina to speak to the Sammy Duvall desk. When I went out to the boat dock, there were about 20 campers waiting for the boat after using the contemporary pool. I mentioned that the pool for the campground was pretty small. They said they never used that pool. They went on to tell me about how they like the slide at the contemporary. They like the hot tubs and the bar at the Wilderness. They think the Polynesian is overrated and their favorite is The Grand Floridian but it is hard to get to and sometimes they get kicked out.

At minimum Wilderness should have a sign like the GF that says these pools are for the use of the wilderness lodge patrons. Please be prepared to show your room key.

We went in March for two years. The spring break campers take over the hot tubs after 9pm. They told me there first choice were the villa (myword) hot tubs. But that one was under repair. Good to hear they appreciate the finer things.

We got back from MK at 11 p.m. There was a full boat going to the campground with campers in bath robes and pool towels. It really has become flagrant abuse.

I think a sign might tone down the flagrant abuse. Maybe cut it back by 20 percent. And it seems the campers that usurp the facilities are loud and pushy.

SAB is shut down like fort knox with the wrist bands.

It might be Disney management tacitly accepts the campers pool hopping. As long as the wilderness and contemporary patrons do not complain.

We are going to beach club next Spring. Wilderness I think will be our first choice the following vacation.

Sorry about the whinking. This was just a small part of a great vacation.

[bicker]

Shame on those campers. A little too much "me" think and too little consideration.

[CarolMN]

Did you complain about them to the WL/VWL management? FWIW, a sign seldom makes any difference to people who take advantage of lax enforcement. Signs/Posted rules don't apply to them - but of course you already knew that, right?

My understanding is that the "illegals" get kicked out if someone complains. I would complain if I couldn't get a spot, and especially if they were loud and obnoxious. Maybe if people complained enough, Disney would do more enforcement - I'm surprised to hear that Disney didn't do enforcement over the crowded Easter weeks.

That said, if the "crashers" weren't actually using the pool and just having a good time, Disney probably doesn't consider them "Illegal". The bars are for anyone (if they are over 21).

Best wishes -

[Alexander]

I complained and loudly last Easter (2005). We couldn't get near the pools at the lodge. The hot tubs were full of people bragging about coming over from the campground. I spoke to the front desk while we were there, I sent them an email when we got home, and I indicated the concern on the follow-up survey they sent. We will not be staying at the VWL until this problem is resolved. For crying out loud, you can't get near SAB without room ID, why is it so difficult to ask people to show their room keys at the other resorts?

AND....there was no pool hopping allowed for even DVC members during the Easter weeks this year or last! So those staying at other DVC resorts weren't even allowed to use the pools.

Maybe we need to really get a complaint campaign going because this problem is as bad now as it was a year ago. The WL/VWL staff are clearly not dealing with this issue.

[bzzelady]

I'm going to the Wilderness Lodge in the beginning of June on a cash reservation. Turst me, if I see abuse, I'll complain to management (the son of one of my friends is a manager out at Port Orleans so I will be heard if need be).

I have a 6 year old who didn't get to swim at all in October at BWV due to Wilma so she expects to be able to swim this time and I expect there to be room in the pool for her to do so.

[bicker]

The WL/VWL staff are clearly not dealing with this issue. Or any such issue. Disney relies on the integrity of its guests to comply with things like this. They don't plan on their guests transgressing in such great numbers, and as a result don't have any mechanisms in place to prevent the selfishness from adversely impacting other guests. It does seem to be so pervasive, now, affecting so much of what Disney offers, exascerbated by the sharing of these "tactics" on the Internet, that something does need to be done. We really need to start writing to Disney about the overall problem. While it was nice to rely on people's better natures in the past, it just isn't working anymore. We all have to pay more one way or another: I'd rather pay a little higher prices to pay for enforcement than to pay with lowered quality of my vacation experience, due to being impact by abuse.

[jennypenny]

I may be wrong, but I thought pool hopping was allowed except for SAB and AKL :confused3 ? The campground would be included in that. I know that disney sometimes suspends pool hopping but they hardly advertise that--if I didn't frequent the disboards I wouldn't know it either.

On the other hand, obnoxious behavior is out of bounds no matter where you are staying. I do find that I notice bad behavior more when it's crowded.

They probably need to do away with pool hopping. But to do that they would (should) have to make sure that all of the pools are up to disney standards. I think the campground pools are not up to disney standards and should be updated.

Jenny

[OhioTony]

As a side note. We stayed in the Wilderness Cabins. If you have ever priced them, they are NOT cheap. We felt it was within reason to HOP to the Lodge pool. However if we had set up a tent..I would not Pool-Hop! Hope I don't get FLAMED for my indescretion! :confused3

[TAKitty]

At OKW they wouldn't give me a towel without showing my room id. Do they do this at the other resorts (besides SAB). I personally feel like there shouldn't be any pool hopping. If you want to use the pool, pay the price of the room at that particular resort.

[dgaston]

In my surveys about stays at Ft Wilderness I often mention that I wish they would reopen the pool from the former River Country. That pool would provide more variety and was nice. Adding a hot tub or two would also alleviate a lot of the pool hopping.

[Lenc324]

Do Campers have Pool Hopping rights? I don't get it. If we are DVC and are paying dues for upkeep of our home resorts how do guest of the campgrounds get to pool hop at DVC resorts????? :stir:

[bicker]

They don't. Ft. Wilderness guests are supposed to restrict themselves to the Ft. Wilderness pools. What it sounds like is that there just were a number of them who put their own personal convenience over what is right.

[Lenc324]

Why isn't Disney keeping a closer watch on this? There should be someway that they have to show some ID or a pass of something to that effect. :stir:

[dsneygirl]

I camped at Ft Wilderness twice last year and when you check in you sign a form that is clearly stamped "NO POOL HOPPING" I guess the convient boat ride to the other resorts makes it seem more noticeable. But I'm sure there are abusers everywhere. Most campers are the most courteous people you will meet.

[bobbiwoz]

In my surveys about stays at Ft Wilderness I often mention that I wish they would reopen the pool from the former River Country. That pool would provide more variety and was nice. Adding a hot tub or two would also alleviate a lot of the pool hopping.

That's a great pool isn't it?? We have such fond memories of being there!

Bobbi

[Deb & Bill]

I may be wrong, but I thought pool hopping was allowed except for SAB and AKL :confused3 ? The campground would be included in that. I know that disney sometimes suspends pool hopping but they hardly advertise that--if I didn't frequent the disboards I wouldn't know it either.

On the other hand, obnoxious behavior is out of bounds no matter where you are staying. I do find that I notice bad behavior more when it's crowded.

They probably need to do away with pool hopping. But to do that they would (should) have to make sure that all of the pools are up to disney standards. I think the campground pools are not up to disney standards and should be updated.

Jenny

I think what chips was saying was that people staying at the campground (NOT DVC) were coming over to the WL and villas pool and hot tub. They are not allowed to use the pool or hot tub at WL and the villas and are limited to the campground pool.

However, should a DVC member want to use the campground pool, as long as pool hopping was not blacked out, they could do so.

[chips]

I know it seems naive to suggest putting up a sign. However I don't know of any other half measures between tacitly accepting the behavior and monitoring sab style. That is require a room key to get a towel. At minimum this would demonstrate that the official policy is no pool hopping. I really feel Disney turns the other way with a no harm no foul attitude.

On average the campers leave with one towel per. I saw one woman with three towels. Who pays for these towels and where do they end up? Are our dues paying for those towels?

If I were a camper pool hopping, a public sign might moderate my behavior. I certainly wouldn't brag to the other people in the hot tub I was camping. I might not leave with pool towels on the way back to the boat. Maybe I might make some attempt to fly under the radar.

I don't know what the costs would be but reopening River Country would work. Given a choice nobody wants to wait for a boat twice to go to the pool. If wilderness patrons could go to river country I wouldn't care about the campers using wilderness facilities. Also, they would stay there and we would have another option. I think Disney would prefer the campers use Wilderness and the wilderness patrons grin and bear it.

Bob

[bicker]

On average the campers leave with one towel per. I saw one woman with three towels. Who pays for these towels and where do they end up? Are our dues paying for those towels?Yes, in part. So, in essence, these people are actually stealing from the wallets of members. Members should be extra-vigilant, therefore, in reporting any instances of pool hopping, even if they don't personally see theft, because a smart thief will hide the fact that they're stealing.

[patsal]

It's not just over Easter it is more than likely all the time but more noticable at Easter, July 4th etc. when the resorts are really full and regular DVC pool-hopping is not allowed. I have noticed it a ton when we are at WLV in the summer.

[SyrCinderella]

No wonder the main pool was so crowded Easter Sunday! It was packed, busier then I've ever seen. We decided to stay at the quiet villa pool for the rest of the trip. It was very nice and relaxing.

[mrsgus06]

Maybe, just maybe, these people are not actually campers. If they check in at Ft. Wilderness, they have to sign a form that states no pool hopping, among other no-no's. I think because Ft. Wilderness has the "over flow" lot that is open to people visiting the campground and does not have a security guard gate that you need to go through, people from other resorts park there (maybe resorts that are not even Disney property). Disney has no way of knowing what time you arrived, nor does it have an hourly time limit on how long you can stay. The other resorts near the MK have a way of tracking these. Maybe, people are coming over, using the transportation in Ft. W to get to the Marina and then taking the boat to the resort of their choice. :confused3 After all, people are booking sites at the campground with no intentions of camping there, but need resort ID's for emh? :confused3 Maybe these are the same "campers" that you witnessed or overheard bragging about hopping. O.K., conspiracy theory is over! :duck:

[shantay1008]

They probably need to do away with pool hopping. But to do that they would (should) have to make sure that all of the pools are up to disney standards. I think the campground pools are not up to disney standards and should be updated.

Jenny
While I was reading this thread, I was wondering if the campground pool was nice. Maybe the solution to this problem lies in improving the pool at the campground.

[Johnnie Fedora]

While I was reading this thread, I was wondering if the campground pool was nice. Maybe the solution to this problem lies in improving the pool at the campground.

I have wondered this often. We went to the campgrounds many years ago and really enjoyed river country. It was a lot of fun and the theming fit well into the campgound atmosphere. I think the pools at the campgrounds are really dated and boring.

In many ways WDW management just doesn't treat the WL as a deluxe resort in the same class as the other "real deluxes". It is just a step above the campgrounds where "y'all come" is the attitude for pool and facility use at the lodge.

If they ran separate boats for the campground to the MK, the pool abuse would drop dramatically.

[bicker]

Unfortunately, the campgrounds aren't deluxe resorts -- this is really the problem about having the deluxe resorts so accessible to non-resort guests.

[chips]

The campground pool is small and outdated. The campground is also very spread out. Without a golf cart, it could be a very long walk to the pool depending on the camp site location. I think the campers feeli it is just easier to pop over to the Wilderness Lodge on the boat and use those pools and hot tubs.

[canda]

Last time I was at VWL I left the main pool for the quiet pool, because of a bunch of wild kids playing very rough. I went to the pool bar to get some drinks when I saw the lifeguard kick them out of the pool for their behavior. Their mother was very mad at the lifeguard. She then told them to go the the quiet pool because there where no "self important ***holes" over there.
(that is what she told her 12-14 year old boys and their friends)

Now my family was at the quiet pool (and was quiet) and they come running like a hord and jump in that small pool and began to start splashing and soaking the entire area. Family gets out and runs back to the room. OUr stuff gets wet.

I pick up a house phone and say to call security because there was fighting at the quiet pool. (they were wrestling each other and trying to drown each other)

The mother comes running to the guard after he told them to go back to the main pool. she starts complaining about how she has spent all this money to stay here and has had nothing but hassle and disrespect the entire time.
Then he asked for her room key........ooops I left it in my room.........."Go get it........So they pack up and get on a boat to FW.

[bicker]

The selfishness of some people never ceases to amaze me.

[mrsgus06]

Unfortunately, the campgrounds aren't deluxe resorts -- this is really the problem about having the deluxe resorts so accessible to non-resort guests.

I am not trying to start anything, but the cabins are consindered "home away from home" and are just as expensive as some of the delux resorts. I camp at Ft. Wilderness every summer, all summer. I also choose to stay in the cabins if we are staying for less than a week. We will be there from June 1 to Aug 5 this year. I have never allowed my children to pool hop, but they were told by a cm that Ft. W and WL are considered together and the kids could go there to swim, but my kids have no desire to go there. The pool at the campground is boring. Both the main pool and cabin pools have no theming at all. Maybe this was because of River Country or maybe because the campground was there from the very beginning when people were satisfied with just swimming. I have heard, don't know if it is true, that Ft. W pool will be updated within the next 2 years. I don't know if they are going to update the main pool or do something with a part of River Country. Hopefully, after they do update the pool, the hopping situation will stop.

[bicker]

the cabins are consindered "home away from home" and are just as expensive as some of the delux resorts. Actually, the Disney website lists "Cabins and Campgrounds" as its own category, separate from Deluxe and Disney Vacation Club. The misunderstood "Home Away From Home" category has been eliminated.

http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/wdw/resorts/resortOverview?id=ResortOverviewPage

Ft. Wilderness does not have the following deluxe resort amenities listed on WDW's website: Concierge Available, Fitness Centre / Spa, Room Service / Full Menu, Themed Pools, Valet Parking, Whirlpools.

http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/wdw/resorts/resortCategoryComparisonPopUp?id=resortCategoryCom parisonPopUpPage

[mrsgus06]

[QUOTE=bicker]
Ft. Wilderness does not have the following deluxe resort amenities listed on WDW's website: Concierge Available, Fitness Centre / Spa, Room Service / Full Menu, Themed Pools, Valet Parking, Whirlpools.

I said they were just as expensive as some of the deluxe resorts, not listed as deluxe. My question is why would cast members, and it was more than one, tell my kids to go to WL if they want a themed pool? I have even had a cast member tell me last summer (she worked at Trails End) that if I wanted hot chocolate in my mug, I had to go to WL and they would provide me with hot chocolate? I can drive my golf cart back to my fifth wheel, make my own, and drive back faster than it would take me to get to WL! :lmao: I think the pool hopping has a lot to do with the cast members! They tell people to go to WL ! Shame on the campers that do take advantage of this mistake because as I stated before, we sign a no pool hopping form from the very beginning. :guilty:

ETA: Ft. W. does have concierge available at the front check in, must be something new because last visit was the first time I noticed. I am glad they are offering this service, but no one was in line to use it. However, valet parking? Can you see some one trying to back a 45 foot motor home into a site that has never had experience? What about the huge 40 foot fifth wheels that go one way and the truck goes the other? Now that would be pure entertainment for us campers to have someone else park our rigs! :rotfl2:

[bicker]

I said they were just as expensive as some of the deluxe resorts, not listed as deluxe.Yup, understood. That raises the question as to why people would pay so much without getting the same set of amenities. I suspect the answer is that what you're paying so much for at the cabins is the extra sleeping surfaces, the kitchenette, and the greater privacy. It's definitely a trade-off: nice pools for more space. Folks need to decide between the two (or pay A LOT more, and get both, in the 1BR and 2BR villas at Disney Vacation Club resorts).

My question is why would cast members, and it was more than one, tell my kids to go to WL if they want a themed pool?Because the CMs at Ft. Wilderness aren't concerned about the guests at WL. Cast members are notorious for saying whatever they think will make this guest happy, without regard to how what they say may adversely affect other guests. In the past, it wasn't so much of an issue, since people generally wouldn't push for more than they were promised. However, of course, that's changed now, where there are many people who believe in squeezing suppliers until they pop, in order to get the most they possibly can out of each circumstance. Unfortunately, many CMs haven't gained the ability to satisfy guests while still saying No.

[mrsgus06]

I think we stay at the cabins because it is "home" for us. I take my 5 youngest, ages 4 to 11, and need a really big place for us to spread out! I am not sure why I don't ever go for one of the villas, I know they are out there and can accomidate my size family, but I never consider them. Also, staying for the summer, we have made many friends that are cast members and it is nice to see them again.

I would also like to add, for a laugh, that we are camping in our 5th wheel, parked on the driveway beside our house at the moment. My husband has demoed the downstairs of our house (even the sheetrock) and the 3 br/ 1 bath addition is framed on the back of the house. I have only a sink and dishwasher left in my kitchen, so we go cook in the camper. I can take the kids swimming at my friends house or we can go swimming at my father in laws house. My kids consider that "pool hopping"! They spend waaay to much time at Disney! :teeth:

[shantay1008]

I think we stay at the cabins because it is "home" for us. I take my 5 youngest, ages 4 to 11, and need a really big place for us to spread out! I am not sure why I don't ever go for one of the villas, I know they are out there and can accomidate my size family, but I never consider them. Also, staying for the summer, we have made many friends that are cast members and it is nice to see them again.

Camping can be great fun, like you said, and I don't think that people who choose to camp are necessarily doing it to save money. We've camped at FW because we met up with my grandparents, who were traveling around in their RV, and we all wanted to be together. We were actually very pleased with the amenities at the campgrounds and felt like regular Disney guests.

We all get away with what we can...some people just need a little more help to be "their best selves." (For example, I should be making beds and doing laundry right now, but here I am typing away on the computer.) I think it's great that the poster called security for help and that the mother of the rude gang was held accountable for her actions. And while cast members should have the chutzpah to say "no" to guests, maybe sometimes rules or circumstances need to be changed so they don't have to be put in that position. (Like making sure all resorts have the best facilities possible or reasonable.)

[bicker]

I believe the facilities at Ft. Wilderness are "reasonable". I don't think it would make sense for all different classes of resort to have the best facilities "possible" -- the purpose of each class of resort is to offer something appropriate for a specific price-point. The issue isn't that the WDW resort fails to provide deluxe amenities to all its guests, but rather that some guests expect deluxe amenities even though they're not paying for deluxe amenities. That isn't "reasonable".

[Lenc324]

Bicker:

I agree. :thumbsup2

[donaldbuzz&minnie]

I agree with others that the best solution would be for Disney to give Ft Wilderness a fabulous pool. Whether or not it is technically a deluxe resort, their are a huge number of people there, and they pay at least enough to qualify as a "moderate", which all have themed pools. A really wonderful themed pool would be a win-win...great for Ft Wilderness folks, pressure relieved from the crowded WL pool, and a new venue for DVC members to pool-hop to!

[bicker]

Would folks staying there be happy to pay a commensurately higher rate? Be sure that if they upgrade the amenities, they will upgrade the price.

[shantay1008]

I believe the facilities at Ft. Wilderness are "reasonable". I don't think it would make sense for all different classes of resort to have the best facilities "possible" -- the purpose of each class of resort is to offer something appropriate for a specific price-point. The issue isn't that the WDW resort fails to provide deluxe amenities to all its guests, but rather that some guests expect deluxe amenities even though they're not paying for deluxe amenities. That isn't "reasonable".

Obviously, people shouldn't expect deluxe accommodations if they're not paying for them. But if guests who are paying to stay at WL are having their day at the pool ruined by loud, profanity-spewing trespassers, then the current situation isn't working very well, is it? So, management either has to be a lot more strict and keep the pool at WL private for WL guests or, if for some reason they don't want to do that, they could try to make the pool at the campgrounds a lot more exciting so that the campground guests are content to remain there. Perhaps the phrase "best amenities possible" brought visions of an Atlantis-like pool. I simply meant that the campground should have the best facilities possible given financial constraints, etc.

[shantay1008]

Would folks staying there be happy to pay a commensurately higher rate? Be sure that if they upgrade the amenities, they will upgrade the price.
And that's where the marketing people come in.

[bicker]

There is no reason to believe that the campgrounds don't already have the best facilities possible given financial constraints (i.e., their price-point).

The best answer, of course, is for guests to behave with integrity, and not use facilities not intended for them. Posted signs, which are evident, shouldn't even be necessary, but they're there, so that perspective is thereby doubly-supported. That's the best answer. Barring that, Disney should enforce the prohibition.

[DrTomorrow]

[...]We all get away with what we can...[...] Respectfully, speak for yourself....
But if guests who are paying to stay at WL are having their day at the pool ruined by loud, profanity-spewing trespassers, then the current situation isn't working very well, is it? So, management either has to be a lot more strict and keep the pool at WL private for WL guests or, if for some reason they don't want to do that, they could try to make the pool at the campgrounds a lot more exciting so that the campground guests are content to remain there. So those 'guests' who violate the rules, demand more amenities than they are willing to pay for and willfully ruin the vacations of others will now be rewarded for this behavior? :confused3

[shantay1008]

Respectfully, speak for yourself....
So those 'guests' who violate the rules, demand more amenities than they are willing to pay for and willfully ruin the vacations of others will now be rewarded for this behavior? :confused3
How in the world did I become the spokesperson for the rude rulebreakers? I think it's terrible that people willfully break the rules, but instead of feeling bad about it, I'm wondering about ways to fix the problem.

Keep in mind that we're all gleaning information from comments from other posters. For example, someone wrote on this thread that the pool at the campground isn't very nice, so that led to the thought that maybe that's why campers (rude ones, as well as others who are perfectly pleasant) are visiting WL's pool. One poster said that the CMs are actually sending campers over to the WL pool.

Maybe WDW doesn't want to check guests' room cards when they come in the pool area because then they'll get guests saying that a) I forgot mine...are you really going to make me go all the way back to my room to get it? b) don't you recognize me, we've been here all week? c) what do you mean I need a room card? I'm paying $5,000 to stay here this week.

[bicker]

We all can do our part to help "fix the problem", and I don't just mean being honest ourselves. Taking a clear stand in support of honesty and integrity helps foster an environment of honesty and integrity.

If checking room keys is good enough for the Yacht and Beach Club resort, it's good enough for Wilderness Lodge. Disney is probably not doing it there yet because there aren't so many violators yet as to warrant the added cost.

[DrTomorrow]

[...]If checking room keys is good enough for the Yacht and Beach Club resort, it's good enough for Wilderness Lodge. Disney is probably not doing it there yet because there aren't so many violators yet as to warrant the added cost. Sadly, I believe you are correct. There is a certain level of 'rule-breaking' - and corresponding degradation of guests' experiences - that Disney deems acceptable and won't spend money to fix....

[DrTomorrow]

How in the world did I become the spokesperson for the rude rulebreakers? [...] You said that "we all get away with what we can" - which seems like what most rule-breakers say (a variation of "well, everybody else does it.") Based on this comment, you certainly seemed to be advocating the rule-breakers position. If this is not the case, I humbly apologize; you might, however you might wish to restate your position....

Be well!

[bicker]

Indeed: "we all get away with what we can" is an A#1 rationalization. The statement has no merit: First: It isn't true. Second: It doesn't describe appropriate behavior.

[Sammie]

As Carol stated signs are not going to stop the diehard "I Don't Care" guest. I mean how many guests pay any attention to the signs about the mugs. :confused3

The only thing that will change this is to complain and not here. Email Disney, complain while you are there.

I have to agree with Bicker, as long as there is an element that promotes this type of behavior as acceptable it will continue.

Personally I think it is time for all the deluxe resort pools to be gated just ike SAB.

[mrsgus06]

So those 'guests' who violate the rules, demand more amenities than they are willing to pay for and willfully ruin the vacations of others will now be rewarded for this behavior? :confused3[/QUOTE]

Why can't the non violaters be rewarded? :confused3 As I have stated, I don't own DVC, but I do own a very nice 5th wheel. I book my stays for a week at a time (in the cabins) and I book my summer stays for months at a time (in my camper). I have stayed one other place (CSR) for one night, just because the kids wanted a pool with a slide. They had a wonderful time, but, when it was time to check into the campground, they said goodbye to the slide and hello campground! I don't know why some people think they can break the rules, but they do. Maybe they are better than us, kind of like a legend in their own mind kind of people. I can't help what other campers do, but I hope you realize that not all campers are this way. Like I said earlier, maybe it is the same "campers" that book a partial hook up site for the emh bonus and never stay at the site?

[bicker]

Maybe they are better than usIf anything, just the opposite.

[shantay1008]

Indeed: "we all get away with what we can" is an A#1 rationalization. The statement has no merit: First: It isn't true. Second: It doesn't describe appropriate behavior.
My comment that "we all get away with what we can" was not meant to be the credo for rule breakers everywhere. I just feel uncomfortable in situations where I seem to be setting myself above other people, as though I were somehow better than them. Sadly, the rest of my comment seems to have been overlooked: I went on to say that I was supposed to be making beds and doing laundry (as an example of getting away with what I could). If you think that behavior links me to the profanity-spewing rule breakers, well, so be it, I suppose.

[bicker]

I just feel uncomfortable in situations where I seem to be setting myself above other people, as though I were somehow better than them.There is no reason to feel that way. Supporting honesty and integrity isn't putting yourself above others, it is putting proper behavior above deviance.

[shantay1008]

Well, anyway, I was thinking some more about how resort guests would feel about having to show their room cards each time they want to use the pool. When we stayed at BCV in Feb., it was too cold to swim, so the issue of showing a room card never came up. We didn't show anything at SSR, either, but we wouldn't have minded in the least if the pool staff had asked every time we entered and left the pool area if it meant keeping things safe and manageable (in terms of being able to get a seat, etc.) for paying guests.

I guess I'm just wondering if you think resort guests/DVC members would give the pool staff a hard time about having to show their room cards all the time (and if that's one of the reasons why they don't seem to enforce that rule now).

[bicker]

I'm just wondering if you think resort guests/DVC members would give the pool staff a hard time about having to show their room cards all the timeAs a DVC member, I surely would not have any problem with that at all. It's clearly not a major problem at the Yacht and Beach Club Resort.

[Simba's Mom]

Someone mentioned having to sign a form about No pool hopping allowed, but when I stayed at the cabins recently, we didn't sign any such form. Is it possible that these campers didn't know that pool hopping was wrong? I guess the reason I want to think that is because I find it incredible that a bunch of adults would do something they know is "illegal", then brag about it besides. But honestly, if I hadn't known already that pool hopping was wrong when I stayed at the cabins, there was no reminder anywhere. I think a sign would be a start-at least it wouldn't cost much.

[DiznEeyore]

Bicker:

I agree. :thumbsup2
I agree, too, with every point Bicker has made in this thread. ::yes::

[Deb & Bill]

...But honestly, if I hadn't known already that pool hopping was wrong when I stayed at the cabins, there was no reminder anywhere. I think a sign would be a start-at least it wouldn't cost much.

Kind of like the sign they had for years and years by the refillable mugs and the refill stations that stated that the mugs were only good for the length of the trip for which they were purchased and only at that resort??? ;)

[NewJerseyDVCMembers]

If the boat sharing ends, the pool hopping ends! Even if it didn't end completely we would guess that it would be cut by more than half. Everyone would then have to go from FW to the MK, wait for another boat to get to WL, and then reverse to get back.

If that doesn't work we are planing to contact the Minutemen to guard our VWL border.

NO MORE COMMUNITY "BOATING".


P.S. - Don't take it too literally.

[DrTomorrow]

shantay, sorry to mis-label you - I agree with bicker as well; nothing wrong with advocating, promoting and modeling proper behavior.

I also have no problem with reasonable requirements to demonstrate that I qualify for certain benefits / amenities, such as showing a DVC Member card, room card or ID. At the nicer Las Vegas resorts, they have guards in the elevator lobby & at the pool entrance, and you must show a room key to gain access - which I totally support. For that matter, the pool at the GC at DLR was totally fenced-in and had a room-key-activated entrance gate....

(Note that I am less thrilled with the idea of gov't officials being able to demand the same - but that's a topic for another board, and I don't have my tinfoil hat handy....) ;)

[Simba's Mom]

Kind of like the sign they had for years and years by the refillable mugs and the refill stations that stated that the mugs were only good for the length of the trip for which they were purchased and only at that resort??? ;)
Sad to say it's a good point. People can't/don't read.

[shantay1008]

shantay, sorry to mis-label you - I agree with bicker as well; nothing wrong with advocating, promoting and modeling proper behavior.)
Thanks, DrTomorrow, I appreciate that. E-mailing is a great thing, but it lacks the subtle nuances that are so important in communication (a smile, a wry grin, etc.).

But back to the topic: Is pool-hopping a problem everywhere, or just at WL? When we next stay at SSR, are we likely to run into these problems? I think someone mentioned people sneaking into the SSR pool from DTD, too. You hate to go on vacation with a chip on your shoulder, but our days at WDW are too important to us.

[Granny]

But back to the topic: Is pool-hopping a problem everywhere, or just at WL? When we next stay at SSR, are we likely to run into these problems? I think someone mentioned people sneaking into the SSR pool from DTD, too. You hate to go on vacation with a chip on your shoulder, but our days at WDW are too important to us.
I think that pool hopping is especially an issue at WL because FW is so large, its pools are nothing special, and Disney has made it extremely convenient to pool hop there with the boat route.

This is kind of the same problem that SAB had since it was easily accessible to three large resorts (Swan, Dolphin and BWV/BWI). Of course, SAB is quite an attraction in itself and I can imagine many BC and YC guests being very upset to pay that kind of money and not have access to their own pool.

SSR might run into some problems, but frankly I don't see many people wanting to take a bus to DTD then walk over to SSR (or take that bus) to swim.

Disney certainly can cure this issue at WL by going to an ID system, at least during the summer months when the WL pool is extremely crowded.
I guess I'm just wondering if you think resort guests/DVC members would give the pool staff a hard time about having to show their room cards all the time (and if that's one of the reasons why they don't seem to enforce that rule now). I think there will always be an element of guests who will complain no matter what Disney does. So yes, there will be eye-rolling and complaining from some who didn't bring a room key with them. But most would understand that it's just for their own benefit (per Dr. T's comments).

I think the reason that Disney doesn't enforce the rule right now is twofold. One, it would cost money to have someone checking ID's all the time and even more if they fenced the pool. The other is that Disney tries to keep all guests happy all the time....so they usually look the other way at what they consider minor infractions, and often CM's give downright incorrect information in an effort to please a customer.

It's a situation that will only be addressed if enough people complain. And not here on the DIS.

[crisi]

We recently spent a weekend at the Kalahari waterpark at the Dells. Each day, you showed your room key and were given bracelets, colored differently each day, for your party. You could pick them up at the pool, you could pick them up from the front desk, you could pick them up from conceirge. They just ran your key to make sure it was valid, checked the number of people in the room, and gave you the right number of bracelets - which were good until 3:00 on checkout day. When my daughter lost one, they gave her another, but did note in the computer - so light abusers wouldn't get caught, but serial abusers would.


They could do something similar at Disney, even handing out the bracelets for your party in your folder at check in with the color coding for the days.

While its a shame they'd need to make those of us who belong wear those tacky bracelets, I'd rather wear a bracelet than have an overcrowded pool filled with non-resort guests.

[DiznEeyore]

While its a shame they'd need to make those of us who belong wear those tacky bracelets, I'd rather wear a bracelet than have an overcrowded pool filled with non-resort guests.

I totally agree!

[dsneygirl]

Someone mentioned having to sign a form about No pool hopping allowed, but when I stayed at the cabins recently, we didn't sign any such form. Is it possible that these campers didn't know that pool hopping was wrong?

That was me. It wasn't a seperate form it was the standard one you sign at check in, it was stamped "No Pool Hopping" and "No pets". So I don't think you (generic you as in any FW guest )could claim ignorance.

[SuzieQMomof3]

I'm really enjoying this lively discussion. :goodvibes

We are DVC members.

In March, we stayed for the first time at FW Cabins for a long weekend. When I checked in, I asked about the pool, saw the "No Pool Hopping" notice on my paperwork, and then I asked the CM if we could pool hop because we're DVC members, she said, and I quote, "Oh yes, DVC members can always pool hop, except to Beach Club."

I know now that I have to be staying on points to pool hop, but we pool hopped during that weekend, because the pool at FW is terrible!

Maybe I'm spoiled, but even the kids were dissapointed in the pool. It was nothing special-unbelievably boring.

We spent at evening at OKW with dinner poolside from Goods-to-Go and a margarita from the poolside bar while the kids played in the pool.

Whoever invented the poolside bar ought to get a nobel prize. :teeth:

However, now that I know I'm not supposed to pool hop from the Cabins, I won't. But the CMs need to give accurate information. Rules are rules!

Susan

[Deb & Bill]

...However, now that I know I'm not supposed to pool hop from the Cabins, I won't. But the CMs need to give accurate information. Rules are rules!

Susan

You're expecting a CM at a non-DVC resort to know the DVC rules when even the CM at the DVC resorts don't know them? :lmao:

[DrTomorrow]

You're expecting a CM at a non-DVC resort to know the DVC rules when even the CM at the DVC resorts don't know them? :lmao: Too true :rolleyes1

Hey, here's a thought: maybe we could have DIS DVC members staff (on a volunteer basis) a "Get your DVC Questions answered correctly here!" booth at each DVC resort. Think about it - how many CMs have actually taken a thermometer to the pools? How many CMs know there are two different bathroom door configs at OKW - and which buildings have which? How many CMs know the occupancy rules - both official and semi-official? But here on the DIS we have folks that know all these things and much, much more.

Think about it......

[cavecricket]

What Disney needs to do is give the camprgounds a pool worth staying at....have you seen it?!

Not even a year round snack bar....no mixed drinks.....ect

While I understand your aggravation, understand theirs.

I was a FW camper for many years....and people think because the sites are "cheaper" then hotel rooms they deserve "less" ( visit the pools... ) ...dont forget that these campers are spending a pretty penny on the rigs they drive to their destination. Golf cart rentals... ect.

Every hotel has a "themed pool" and "Pool Bar" why not the campgrounds?

Lets not forget how many "hotel guests" like to attend FW's campfire singalong and movie?! How many times as a child did I have to sit WAY in the back because the CR kids flooded the place?

I am curious to know the average # of guests that are staying at FW ....compare that to the all stars.....is the figure close?

Now look at the pool size difference.......

I know pool hopping is wrong AND THIS IS JUST AND EXAMPLE but if a camper decides they want a couple pool side coctails.....are they supposed to hike to Crockets Tavern or wait for a bus to get the drinks ....then wait for another bus ...wait a minute...no drinks allowed on the bus so hike and hope your drink stays cold....ect


I am sorry you had such a terrible experience....I tend not to pay much attention to those around me ... just my family, and unless other guests are directly offending me....I let it go

Just my 2 cents


( and I am a DVC owner )

[shantay1008]

I am sorry you had such a terrible experience....I tend not to pay much attention to those around me ... just my family, and unless other guests are directly offending me....I let it go
I agree with you about the camping thing...when my family stayed at FW, it didn't occur to us that WDW wasn't just as excited to have us at the campgrounds as they would have been to have us at CR. :)

I know we can't expect everyone to behave well at every situation, and even regular resort guests can be loud and obnoxious. But the thing that concerns me is really a safety issue. Swimming is a life and death matter, and I want to be sure that my kiddos are as safe as possible. That means that the pool should not be overcrowded, especially not by people who shouldn't be there in the first place. It's WDW's responsibility to make that happen, whether it means building an extra pool at a resort to accommodate large resort crowds, or making sure non-resort guests are not allowed in.

edited to say that I know my kids are my responsibility, and I watch them at the pool like a hawk, believe me. WDW's responsibility is to make sure that I have a reasonable chance of being able to see them in the horde. So no one needs to write that parents need to watch their kids at the pools. Because we know that. ;)

[cavecricket]

edited to say that I know my kids are my responsibility, and I watch them at the pool like a hawk, believe me. WDW's responsibility is to make sure that I have a reasonable chance of being able to see them in the horde. So no one needs to write that parents need to watch their kids at the pools. Because we know that. ;)


You sound like a great parent....while everyone else seems concerned that "they dont belong in our pool...." you are genuinely concerned for the safety of the children! kudos to you!

[LakeAriel]

Pool hopping is a major problem at all deluxe resorts. People take free buses from their homes and use the pools! As a result, this year I am staying at BCV instead of my home resort VWL. If I like it and the bracelets really work I may sell VWL and purchase BCV. Not finding a place to sit poolside or swim after spending thousands for a DVC membership is infuriating when you realize that 20 % of the people are not even resort guests. :sad2:

[chips]

I felt I needed to follow through and relate my concerns to member services. I sent an initial email and received the auto respond email. They responded with an email requesting my phone number. I sent an email with my phone number. I received an email that they had no record of my email or a request for my phone number. They didn't ask for more information . They didn't apologize for the lost email.

I believe my experience with customer service mirrors other peoples experience. For me it was a dead letter office. This isn't the first time my observations were met with deaf ears.

I wonder if it would make a difference if they saw more than one email on this issue? If they owed me money I would send emails until it was resolved. In this case we will just take a break from wlv.

I love my dvc. I think the resorts are great. I think it comes down to if I don't like something, don't go there. Next time were going to bcv. Maybe it is just time to try the different resorts.

[MrGrumpy222]

Well, anyway, I was thinking some more about how resort guests would feel about having to show their room cards each time they want to use the pool. When we stayed at BCV in Feb., it was too cold to swim, so the issue of showing a room card never came up. We didn't show anything at SSR, either, but we wouldn't have minded in the least if the pool staff had asked every time we entered and left the pool area if it meant keeping things safe and manageable (in terms of being able to get a seat, etc.) for paying guests.

I guess I'm just wondering if you think resort guests/DVC members would give the pool staff a hard time about having to show their room cards all the time (and if that's one of the reasons why they don't seem to enforce that rule now).

It's not a question of wheather or not a DVC member or a guest would like it or not. Disney is private property and they as a corporation can impose rules as they see fit. I hate the rule that I have to pay taxes but I do so 1, because it is what keeps the country going (discounting the pork) and 2, If I don't there will be consequences and fines. You see, rules are made to protect the rights and safety of others. They are most often placed into affect because someone else has infringed on ones rights or placed their safety at risk. Only after that happens do the rules get "thought up" or realized. If carrying my room key, which weighs less than the change in my pocket (and I need to get back into your room in the 1st place) will provide me with a more enjoyable and safer expierence for my children than I am all for it. For those who complain, there's the door, I hear six flags can be fun at times. :wave2:

[castleri]

It's not a question of wheather or not a DVC member or a guest would like it or not. Disney is private property and they as a corporation can impose rules as they see fit. I hate the rule that I have to pay taxes but I do so 1, because it is what keeps the country going (discounting the pork) and 2, If I don't there will be consequences and fines. You see, rules are made to protect the rights and safety of others. They are most often placed into affect because someone else has infringed on ones rights or placed their safety at risk. Only after that happens do the rules get "thought up" or realized. If carrying my room key, which weighs less than the change in my pocket (and I need to get back into your room in the 1st place) will provide me with a more enjoyable and safer expierence for my children than I am all for it. For those who complain, there's the door, I hear six flags can be fun at times. :wave2:

ITA -
On one trip the wrist band thing at SAB was working well as far as the pool went but there were 3 women taking up lounge chairs who were loudly complaining that they had paid to stay on Disney property and couldn't understand why they couldn't use any pool they wanted. Fortunately it was not busy that day and there were plenty of empty chairs. I did see the lifeguard make a couple of people get out of the pool and show their room keys, after which he gave them wrist bands, so it can work. I seem to remember a time when you had to get a hand stamp to get into the pool area at all at SAB. There are ways to control who is at the WL and VWL pools but it would take additional personnel and possibly fences and therefore increase costs so don't know if we will ever see it. If they would just redo the old River Country at FW it might take care of the problem and then we could all "hop" over there. Then they would have to charge more than the $30 or $40 something they get for a campsite now to cover the costs of that.