A non-DVC type goes to OKW!

[LT Hambone]

Originally, we had reserved a honeymoon suite at the GF for our ten day honeymoon trip. But, with all of the cutbacks, we just could not justify spending all that money for less "entertainment".

So, we called CRO and switched to OKW. Amazing, we got a one bedroom villa with twice as much room, and it has amenities that the GF honeymoon suite (turret) does not - a balcony, a Jacuzzi, a refrigerator, in-room laundry - for less money! Even with the fees they charged to switch, we're still saving $2,000 for our ten day trip!

So to all of you OKW fans out there - what are your thoughts? Did we make a good choice?

Also, we would like a room with a water view (so we feel like we are staying at the GF ;) ). What's some good building choices which will give us this view? Should we fax a room request, or just play it by ear? And are there any buildings we should avoid?

Thanks everyone!

[WebmasterDoc]

Did we make a good choice?

:D Have a great honeymoon!! You have chosen wisely!!

As for building location, just call and request a water view- there are many and I'm sure you won't be disappointed. Building 55 comes to mind as quiet location with a great water view- but don't get too hung up on a specific location- all are nice!

The 1BR will far surpass ANYTHING you would have at the GF- so just enjoy!

[rbuzzotta]

Your marriage is off to a great start with such a wise decision!!!!

Have a wonderful time. Congratulations on your upcoming marriage.

[SAKPEG99OKW]

Congrats, first of all. OKW is totaly different then the GF. Your room is huge, huge, huge. Did i say huge. Even though your on your honeymoon, you will be able to save money utilize the kitchen, either breakfast or lunch.

OKW is quite, very quite. Olivias is good, not the best but good. On a head to head basis GF has a lot more to offer as far as service but, OKW has savings, piece of mind to offer.

You guys should have no problem with transportation, we never have.

Once you get to WDW make sure you tell every CM you meet that you are on your honeymoon, you never know what will happen.

DW and I had a lot of special surprises while we were at WDW on our HM.

Have a great trip, enjoy OKW.

Scott and Peg:bounce: :bounce:

[Peggy Sue]

OKW is a wonderful choice! Very relaxing, quite, romantic resort!!

I know someone else has advised disney transportation is OK..but you might want to consider a car if you plan to visit other resorts for dinner or head over to the board walk or PI for some night life. Disney transportion, regardless or resort, has never been very good for this type of activity.

The resorts offer some of the best dining options at WDW. (surpasses anything at Epcot...IMHO!) Boradwalk is a great place for romantic stroll, and if you like Fish, the Flying Fish Cafe is wonderful, or the Yacht&Beach Clue, Swan and Dolphin also offer great dining choices.

We love OKW ... After staying in a 1 bedroom we can't bring ourelves to reserve a studio or a standard hotel room!

Remember--with the laundry facilities you don't need to pack as many clothes either!!

Congratulations and have a wonderful honeymoon!

[Granny]

You made a great choice. You will have all of the amenities you listed as well as a little seclusion that can go a long way on a honeymoon.

Also, you will be starting out your marriage with an extra $2,000 in your pocket.

OK, just to avoid total one-sidedness. You will not receive daily housekeeping. You will not have a direct view of Magic Kingdom. You will not have any Polynesian theming.

You will instead have some room to spread out and enjoy your trip in a relaxed atmosphere....not always easy at WDW!

Congratulations.....you will have a great trip!

I must tell you that the Surgeon General has determined that staying at a DVC resort is thoroughly addictive! :smooth:

[LT Hambone]

Originally posted by Granny
You will not receive daily housekeeping.

I was told differently. If you are staying with DVC points, then yes, you do not receive daily housekeeping. But if you stay as a guest (like what we are doing), you do get full housekeeping.

Or did this change since 4:00 yesterday afternoon???


Thanks to everyone for your kind and encouraging words. Switching resorts was not an easy decision, but after hearing your thoughts, I now know we made a good choice.


:)

[chris1gill]

You are correct about getting FULL housekeeping!!! Anyone staying on cash gets full housekeeping!!!

I'm curious how you picked OKW... have you seen it before or did you know something about it?

It sits on a golf course & there is a boat that goes to downtown Disney (It's a nice leisurely ride over)... The villa's are absolutely huge by the way, no comparison at all to a regular room!!! Even the villa's at BW & VWL ,which have smaller rooms than OKW still have much larger villa's than a regular room! You can't miss with the DVC villa's, they are all beautiful!!!

[LT Hambone]

Originally posted by chris1gill
I'm curious how you picked OKW...

Simple -

Since we were loosing concierge service, we wanted a place where we could provide our own breakfast and snacks. So, that meant a suite of some sort. There are four resorts at WDW which offer this kind of arrangement - three DVC and the Institute. We didn't care for the location of the Institute, and out of three DVC resorts, OKW was the cheapest and biggest!

So, we rolled the dice, called CRO, and viola! Reservation changed.

Now we are really starting to realize we made an awesome choice, especially since we are getting more for less!

We may have to convert to DVC......


:smooth:

[MaryJ]

This really strikes me funny! When we first approached the DVC kiosk at WL last spring, our 15 year old DD was with us. The CM there used the fact that we could use our points at the GF to send her on a wonderful honeymoon in a few years! Now I'm thinking: Why would we want to do that when there are ( and will be) so many great DVC properties that where she could stay? Have a great time at OKW and best wishes in your new life together!

[PamOKW]

MaryJ -- I agree that OKW is a fabulous honeymoon spot. I've met several couples who were given the trip as a present from someone for their honeymoon and they all were awestruck. Even the ones who were staying in studios. And, of course, don't forget about that king size bed in the master suite. ;)

[chris1gill]

Originally posted by LT Hambone


We may have to convert to DVC......


:smooth:

Well then, it sounds like you made the best choice! As for converting to DVC, you will never regret it if you do!!! If you have one question for this board... about what regrets we have, it's that we didn't buy soon enough!! What an awesome honeymoon present for your wife by the way!! (you might want to ask her beforehand though LOL)

[CaliforniaDreaming]

Originally posted by WebmasterDoc

The 1BR will far surpass ANYTHING you would have at the GF- so just enjoy!

Oooh, I have to disagree. They do offer some truly "grand" suites. ;)

:D Cali

[WebmasterDoc]

They do offer some truly "grand" suites.

It may depend on your definition of "surpass".

While I have NOT seen any of the GF suites, I doubt any are larger than 1000 sq ft and have full kitchen, jacuzzi, washer dryer and spacious balcony - especially for the cost of the OKW 1BR. I'll accept that any day over a room (or suite) at the GF.

[LT Hambone]

Originally posted by WebmasterDoc


While I have NOT seen any of the GF suites, I doubt any are larger than 1000 sq ft and have full kitchen, jacuzzi, washer dryer and spacious balcony - especially for the cost of the OKW 1BR.

Hey WebmasterDoc !

You just hit the nail on the head! GF is an awesome resort, BUT for 1/3 less money then a GF suite we get more room and more ammenities!

And yes, CaliforniaDreaming, we are going to miss the GF, but we'd rather use our saved $$$ to do more! But we will be at the GF for V&A's Chef Table!


OKW, here we come!

[dianeschlicht]

Awsome choice!!

If you want a quiet view of water and easy access to a quiet pool, I would try building 55 or 56. If you like pond and fountain and gorgeous golf and sunset views, try for buildings 18 or 20. These are alos close to a nice quiet pool.

I agree you should think about DVC as a great wedding gift for yourselves!

[CaliforniaDreaming]

Originally posted by WebmasterDoc


It may depend on your definition of "surpass".

While I have NOT seen any of the GF suites, I doubt any are larger than 1000 sq ft and have full kitchen, jacuzzi, washer dryer and spacious balcony - especially for the cost of the OKW 1BR. I'll accept that any day over a room (or suite) at the GF.

The Presidential Suite is 2,200 square feet, and has the best of everything! :) Other suites range in size from 650 square feet to 1,800 square feet. There is a nice variety of floorplans, but each suite lacks a full kitchen (they do have a nice large wetbar) and it's own laundry facilites. A few suites do have a jacuzzi tub. Most suites do have large balconies (some have 3-5 nice sized balconies, two suites have a huge double sized patio that is 10 feet deeper than the traditional GF balconies and also has 2 regular balconies).

[WebmasterDoc]

The Presidential Suite is 2,200 square feet

I stand corrected!! ;)

I assume that one is a little more than the 1BR in cost?? OKW does have GV's which are 2300 sq.ft and are still less $$$ than the presidential suite.

Enjoy your suite, I know I'll enjoy the 1BR! :D

[Niagara2]

I would be interested to know the price of a 2200 square foot Presidential Suite at the GF. We might win the lottery one day but for now I have to just settle for our beautiful 2600 sq foot GV at OKW that I use points for.
By the way - congratulations on your upcoming marriage. I think you made a wiser choice and keep those wise choices coming throughout your years together and you might retire early and enjoy alot more trips to Disney and travel together in your golden years together. Have fun !!

[CaliforniaDreaming]

I would be interested to know the price of a 2200 square foot Presidential Suite at the GF.

2002 Grand Floridian "BW" Presidential Suite Rates:
Value Season: $1725 + tax
Regular Season: $1920 + tax
Peak Season: $2135 + tax
Holiday Season: $2375 + tax

This suite includes access to both the Royal Palm Club Concierge (this suite is in the main building on the 5th floor - lounge is on the 4th floor) and Sugar Loaf Key Concierge Services. Oh, and this suite sleeps up to 4 adults plus one child under age 3 in a crib. :)

Though this suite would be really nice to stay in, our next trip to the Grand will be in a Garden View room at the discounted rate of $214 per night plus tax. ;)

LT, have a wonderful time at OKW! I've never stayed there, but have visited, and it looks like a really nice resort. Enjoy all the extra space, and all the extra money! :)

[LT Hambone]

CaliforniaDreaming -

Thanks for the kind words, and I hope I haven't started a GF vs OKW debate!

Honestly, we would keep the GF reservation if none of the cut-backs occured. We looked at the whole mess in the "how much bang for the buck" light, and realized that what Disney is offering does not warrent the extra $$$$.

We still want to stay at the GF someday, but it will have to be when the cut-backs are over and Disney gets back to normal.


Hmmmm, one night at the GF Presidential Suite is equal to five nights at OKW. Looks like I need to call CRO back first thing in the morning!


:p

[si_am]

Just got back from OKW. We bought DVC last year but this was our first stay at OKW. We had a two bedroom. It was so nice to have so much room for the 5 of us. We used the jaccuzzi everyday. If it was not me it was one of the children in it. Just don't add to many bubbles or it will look like a Lucy epicode. I faxed a room request 4 days prior to our check in and got exactly what we wanted. I was very please that they could accomodate us. Building 45, 46, and 55 a on the waterway. We were in bldg 24 and had a great view of the golf course and were close to the hospitality house. Old Turle Pond Road seemed quiet. We took a ride through on bikes. Have a wonderful time.

[Niagara2]

Well one night more than covers my dues for the year...yep - ahead at DVC in my opinion! Lottery win - GF here we come...otherwise - very content with our DVC!

[PKK/MJK]

Regarding building choices, We like buildings 45 and 46 for a water view. They overlook Trumbo canal and you can watch all the boats go back and forth to Downtown Disney. There are other water views too--those overlook little lakes with fountains. You can put requests on your reservation. These requests are not guaranteed but they can help. I think I'd put "prefer water view" on my ressie--otherwise you might overlook a golf course (which would be beautiful but not what you prefer). Buildings 30 and higher have two entrances into the bathroom--the lower numbered buildings have only one entrance--since there are only two of you, this probably doesn't matter. You are going to love OKW!! You made a wonderful choice! We gave both of our married daughters DVC honeymoons!!

[bjcgl]

When I think of all the money you will be spending on your honeymoon (being the DVC fan that I am), the thought came to me that you should take all that $$ and buy "a piece of the magic" ! Then you could have 40 more years of fabulous vacations!!!!

Now my DH would say that is totally impractical ... but isn't he the one who is always saying "when are we going back to the DVC!!!!"

Best purchase we ever made!

Happy Honeymoon!

[Mom-to-3]

Originally posted by CaliforniaDreaming


2002 Grand Floridian "BW" Presidential Suite Rates:
Value Season: $1725 + tax
Regular Season: $1920 + tax
Peak Season: $2135 + tax
Holiday Season: $2375 + tax

This suite includes access to both the Royal Palm Club Concierge (this suite is in the main building on the 5th floor - lounge is on the 4th floor) and Sugar Loaf Key Concierge Services. Oh, and this suite sleeps up to 4 adults plus one child under age 3 in a crib.


Are you saying that a family of 5 (none under age 3) would have to get 2 suites?????????:confused: Bummer...


now I'll have to change my plans.


;)

[hoosiergirl]

I think you will be thrilled at OKW. Just think--jacuzzi tub on your honeymoon!!!;) My kids use the tub--DH and I have yet to...... Get some champagne, strawberries, candles.....and relax! (You'll love the rest of the 1 BR also, but I'm sure a newly-married couple will especially appreciate this amenity! ;) ;) )

[CaliforniaDreaming]

Originally posted by Mom-to-3

Are you saying that a family of 5 (none under age 3) would have to get 2 suites?????????:confused: Bummer...
now I'll have to change my plans.
;)

Yes, you would need more than one suite. But there is only one Presidential Suite (Room 4001, the Roosevelt Suite). There is a two bedroom suite next door (rooms 4002/4003/4004) that sleeps 6, that they'd be more than happy to book for you! There is also 2 more 2 Bedroom Suites (sleeps 6) on that floor (one with an optional 3rd bedroom, sleeps 10), 2- One Bedroom Suites (sleeps 4), a One Bedroom Vice-Presidential Suite (sleeps 2), and 2 Honeymoon Turret Rooms (sleeps 2).

:)

But, compare the 1BR suites to OKW 1BR's, the GF's on the 5th floor are 633 (and I believe the other is 683) square feet!

[Deb & Bill]

Don't forget that you can take some nice evening boat rides over to Downtown Disney on the boat from OKW. And it is really great sitting on your porch in your jammies drinking coffee or OJ watching the birds or the early morning golfers. They offer massages at OKW also, if you are in the mood. You just have to schedule them. We'll be home at OKW in about 4 weeks.