Back from OKW, BCV, SSR & HGVC

[phyllisnnj]

Back from OKW, BCV, SSR & HGVC

We had a wonderful time at Disney World. The August crowds weren’t too bad and Tour Guide Mike was great once again.

SSR [2 nights] – This is my third time staying at this resort. I’ve stayed in the Congress and Springs sections and I’ve been happy with both. This is still my favorite DVC resort.
PROS: Newest (however I’m worried about upkeep based on the older resorts I’ve visited); Zero Entry Main Pool
CONS: This place is going to be big they’ll need another main pool. Hopefully another zero entry with a separate 1 ft children’s pool

OKW [3 nights]– This was my first time and we were in a Grand Villa. Everyone loved the layout. The space worked perfectly for our grand gathering. The master bedroom was huge and I loved the extra shower downstairs. I was little surprise how small the upstairs bathrooms were. There is just enough space for the door to clear the toilet and tub.
PROS: Space and size (great for large groups).
CONS: Cleanliness - Looked clean when we entered. We normally do a basic cleaning when we arrive. Cleaned and removed dead bugs found in the cabinets. Kitchen floor was sticky. Cleaned and removed white caked on stain on the sofa. The living room table and coffee table turned our cleaning cloths black. Since we had a toddler, I focused on areas at her level that she would touch – TV cabinet was sticky, cabinet doors dirty, etc. Thick Black build-up (mold??) on all showerhead sprays (really yucky – like it hadn't been cleaned in months (maybe years)).

Hilton Grand Vacations Club (HGVC) on International Drive [3 nights] – This is my third time staying at this resort. Stayed in a three-bedroom villa for the first time. We normally do 3 night weekend stay here.
PROS: Newest (Cleaner than the Disney properties); onsite Pizza Hut express
CONS: The three bedroom was not as big as I was hoping for. (LOL, staying at the spacious OKW Grand Villa prior to moving here probably didn’t help)

BCV [3 nights] – This is my second time staying at this resort. I wasn’t impressed with BCV based on cleanliness and maintenance issues with my last visit but I loved the idea of walking to EPCOT. So I decided to try it again for my grand gathering, hoping that we just had a very worn room during our first visit. We had a two bedroom and a one bedroom. Well, we actually didn’t stay. When we finally got our rooms, my grand gathering party wasn’t very happy with the condition of the room. It just didn’t seem clean enough and of course it was a little worn. Actually it was better that my first visit. They had just stayed at SSR, OKW and HGVC. Instead of requesting another room, I decided that it would be best to head back to SSR. I went down to the front desk and stated that my party didn’t like BCV and prefer to go back to SSR. I was armed with my camera in hand and prepared to answer questions on why we wanted to move but they never asked me. I was later told at both locations that SSR folks generally ask to move back to their home resort. The move was easy since we never took our luggage out of the cars. I guess as long as we have water park passes I won’t be staying at BCV in the future.
PROS: location close to EPCOT & MGM, various onsite dining options including character dining
CONS: Housekeeping ignores issues that are clearly visible. I asked my sister who has traded her timeshares over the last 10 years if she has ever encountered room maintenance issues like this. She stated that she hadn’t. In fact she preferred HGVC out of all of the villas we stayed. She liked the SSR pool but preferred the cleanliness and stocked kitchen at HGVC. I was hoping to convince her to buy DVC with this trip.

I hope DVC is listening and spends more time and money on cleanliness and maintenance.
Here are some BCV pictures http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/phyllisnnj/album?.dir=ebf4re2&.src=ph
I wish I had taken the time to document all of the problems especially the showerheads at OKW.

LESSONS LEARN:
(1) No More than one move per trip. I wanted my family to experience the different DVC resorts but we wasted most of the day packing and unpacking.
(2) Grand Villa works best for large groups of people to relax, talk and eat meals together.

DVC, HGVC & FSRC member

[Ali and boyz]

personally I think you should write and complain enclosing copies of the pictures.
what is HGVC

[phyllisnnj]

I've updated my posting to include Hilton Grand Vacations Club for HGVC.
I also plan to write a letter too.

Thanks

[Buckalew11]

Looks like water stains and maybe drink stains on the sitting areas with the exception of the darker stains. *ick* Besides the stains was the room itself clean?
I think Disney really should work on housekeeping at ALL their resorts.

[kitty44]

I just stayed at the BCV last month. The cushions in my room were just as dirty as those in your pictures. And there was something sticky, like jelly or honey on the kitchen counters. It was as though they don't wipe down the counters between guests.

When I got home my friend, who owns at Boardwalk, asked if I recomend her switching to BCV for her next trip, and I had to say no. After everything I had read about how wonderful this resort is, I was very disapointed in the lack of cleanliness.

[ryley26]

This should be less about Disney and more about the members using these rooms. This is your home keep it clean wet cloths in the bathroom, eat at the table, and clean up your messes. How can anyone expect DVC to keep up with these problems if the owners don't. Also SSR is a new resort so it better be in the best shape. BCV is i would gather DVC most occupied resort. This leads to more traffic and more wear. I'm not saying DVC doesn't need to work on upkeep of this resort but it is all owners job to keep it clean. I love BCV and if you don't want to stay there fine more rooms for me to choose from. :thumbsup2

[lisaviolet]

I stayed in the BCV for the first time in July. I had a fantastic time. I was bringing a guest, who had never been to WDW or DVC, so I warned her that there had a lot of postings about BCV and I hoped for the best but just in case. But nonetheless I was excited. I remember finding stains and such. The reason I found them was because I was very curious about what people were talking about on the DISboards. It was a BCV frenzy the week before I left. Very curious so I looked around with intent just to tame my curiousity. Nothing more. Otherwise, I might not have seen them readily.

We smiled as I said, "these are the stains that people are talking about and are very upset about on vacation here at BCV". (We were on the lookout for the infamous "crooked" hall lamps...so many DISboard built-in searching games). They would not have bothered me at all. One would always prefer a completely "clean" room but nonetheless they didn't bother me in the least.

(Dirty diapers put in the garbage by the elevators!!!! See we all have our thing. I stopped by the front desk twice to let them know about this thoughtless "stinker" needing to be removed after a day of sitting.)

However, the OP is bothered by the room conditions and has every right to be bothered. And many DVCers are bothered by this at DVC resorts. So posting these thoughts and pictures are very relevant for many and their decisions on where to stay. If this is something that bothers you....then it bothers you...and for all the $$$ that they/we spend well hopefully it will improve. Whether I or others could care less about these stains is not the issue.

[lisaviolet]

This should be less about Disney and more about the members using these rooms. This is your home keep it clean wet cloths in the bathroom, eat at the table, and clean up your messes. How can anyone expect DVC to keep up with these problems if the owners don't. Also SSR is a new resort so it better be in the best shape. BCV is i would gather DVC most occupied resort. This leads to more traffic and more wear. I'm not saying DVC doesn't need to work on upkeep of this resort but it is all owners job to keep it clean. I love BCV and if you don't want to stay there fine more rooms for me to choose from. :thumbsup2

Exactly. Yes, housekeeping should always look to improve but I think we all have a clue when an "accident" is going to stain.

[ryley26]

Exactly. Yes, housekeeping should always look to improve but people just think so differently. On checkout day at BCV as I was emptying the fridge...filling/starting the dishwasher....straightening up.....getting all the garbage together...phoning to remind the desk that the DVD was broken...things that a lot of DVCers already do.....my partner's friend was dumbfounded, "what are you doing? Cleaning before they clean?". She was watching me like I was alien material.

I replied that they have to clean but these little things make the process faster for the next DVCers to get into a room and start their vacation. She thought I was nuts. Does everyone have to think the same way? Nope. But if some of us do well DVC will better in the long run.


Lisa if more thought our way instead of always blaming DVC these problems would be fixed. My family cleans the room before we leave to make it nice for the next member. People need to understand these rooms are cleaned once a stay for most so if you don't clean a stain it will set before it cleaning time. Mousekeeping does not have time it deep clean every room because of room need. This resort is almost always filled so it leads to lots of wear DVC needs to replace and fix many things.They are not blameless here they need to address these problems and update the resort. If you were running the hotel would you replace a couch or rug everytime you have a stain. If it was me i would think that if the members don't care enough to keep it clean it must not be a problem.

[Lexxiefern]

Aside from BCV, glad you had a great trip. I would love to try out a grand villa sometime. Thanks for sharing!

[starbox]

I am a germ-a-phobic and carry Lysol and sanitizing wipes to wipe down even the cleanest-looking rooms, so a little "touch up" does not bother me at all. I also am very easy to get along with and almost never complain (especially not at Disney) - BUT, the condition of that room would have freaked me out. That's not just "worn" from popularity - that's filthy.

Honestly, I worry about the cleanliness issue at YC/BC as it relates to SAB. A few years ago, there was an E Coli outbreak at a water park near our house and a bunch of kids got very sick (one died). We also have a friend that got a very serious infection after swimming in a (different) non-DVC Disney pool. Does anyone know how strict the SAB people are about monitoring the pool chemicals and making sure all toddlers and babies are wearing swim diapers?

Glad the rest of your grand gathering was good. Were you in a GV at SSR?

[Tinky]

This should be less about Disney and more about the members using these rooms. This is your home keep it clean wet cloths in the bathroom, eat at the table, and clean up your messes. How can anyone expect DVC to keep up with these problems if the owners don't. ....


Just a thought but..... do you think the guests staying as regular reservations/non-owners feel the same as owners about this?

[utahkennedys]

I really have mixed feelings about staying at BCV ever now, even though I would like to try it for SAB...the photos grossed me out, that is something a simple upholstery steam cleaner could have mostly fixed. There seem to be housekeeping quality issues at BCV. I have to say on our last trip (first trip home as DVC members) to OKW in a 2BR, the place was immaculate. I did not see one issue, and I looked. I hope it is that way for all of my visits to OKW! ;)

[Sammie]

My comments are not directed at the OP, but to the situation described.

No one wants a clean room more than me, but I really think we all need to be more Proactive while there and less Reactive after we get home.

One, as someone said, if you make a mess clean it up right then. Do not leave these messes for the housekeeping to clean up or in this case to miss.

Secondly, and this is a major pet peeve of mine, coming here to share or vent, does not solve the problem. Neither does checking out and moving.

Please, please take the time to call the Housekeeping Super and have them come to the room and see in person these conditions. Only then will things improve.

Let the on duty manager know. There is absolutely no reason for any room not to be clean and in good repair. The Disney resorts do not look like this and if this is what DVC thinks we will accept well, maybe they are right in thinking that.

We have to let them know this is not acceptable.

[Buckalew11]

I also agree that as owners (or renters) we should respect our property and other's property enough to keep it clean. My parents would never allow us to sit down on hotel/condo furniture with a wet bathing suit, we didn't eat on the beds, etc.
I am not sure many people think about such anymore...
So, I agree with these thoughts but I have also seen Disney housekeeping go downhill in recent years and wish they'd get control of the situation and train housekeeping a bit better and check the rooms if that is what it takes.

[mmmcq]

While I can't argue with OP's pictures.....I agree with Sammie. I always call Mousekeeping as many times as it takes - politely of course and with humor. It always works. The last time we were at BCV they had clearly washed the rug before our arrival. When my kids walked thru towards the kitchen their feet got soaked and then one DD fell on the kitchen floor.

I had to call twice....but they finally arrived with towels first and then fans and a "suction" machine to get the excess water out. We left the room immediately and didn't return for until it was almost dry. At least I knew the rug was clean!

I think in the OP's room the chair cushions could have been replaced or removed, cleaned and returned. They could have easily spot cleaned the rug.

I think you'll find instances of this kind of wear and tear at any DVC resort if you're looking for them with a microscope. Newer is always better.

[slp87]

We love BCV and have only had clean rooms with very minor wear and tear, but the pictures by the OP were awful. I would never want to sit on a sofa or chair like that. We've only stayed in a studio, but why aren't those cushions by the dining table covered in a wipeable vinyl???? It's by a table, things are going to get spilled. I also agree with Sammie in that people need to be sure that management is aware of these problems while you're there. The impact is much greater than a complaint after you're gone.

Glad you had a nice trip otherwise. My DB recently stayed at SSR and was shocked at how close DTD was. He enjoyed the resort and looked like he could touch Fulton's from his balcony.

[WDWorld2003]

I wouldn't have stayed either. If the stains were not obvious I could understand but the pictures you show - yuck.

Don't they have someone inspect the rooms after they are cleaned? It seems this would take care of so many problems DVC seems to have. I assume they have a supervisor come through each room and then release it for occupancy when it passes inspection. If they already have this in place then they need new housekeeping inspectors - how could someone miss these stains? If they don't have an inspection of each room then they need to.

We have been surprised at some of the cleanliness at DVC resorts. I don't care if the occupants stayed a day or a week. There should be staff on hand to clean the rooms thoroughly after checkout. They now have several DVC resorts and ten years of experience to base their housekeeping and maintainence knowledge on.

I don't mind cleaning up after our family during our stay but I sure don't want to have to clean when I arrive or when I'm leaving.... I thought housekeeping was part of the dues :confused3

[phyllisnnj]

I did come here to share (not vent). I hope folks continue to post their DVC issues. How can you tell if a problem is an isolated incident or a bigger reoccurring issue?

I also agree that we need to be sure that management is aware of problems while we're there. Based on so many reports about maintenance issues at BVC and seeing it first hand myself during a previous stay, I honestly feel BVC hotel management is fully aware of their issues and either don’t care or obviously don’t know how to address the issue. It also appears that DVC must be aware that something is wrong at BCV if SSR members are requesting to move back to their home resort from the most desirable location. My plan is to bring this issue to a higher level of management.

I expected the front desk to ask me why I wanted to move but they never did (perhaps walking up to the front desk and placing my digital camera on the counter before making my request may have prevented that discussion). My immediate goal was to resolve this issue quickly and that's what I did. However I failed to think about the next person that would be assigned to this room. I apologize for that. Perhaps they could have sent someone up to clean the sofa and bench before it was reassigned to someone else.

Whenever I've encountered problems with a room, I've always found it best to make the front desk and/or management aware of the problems and request a new room if available instead of waiting for housekeeping to resolve the issue. I use to travel alot for business and discovered that one can wait hours (sometimes days) for housekeeping to resolve an issue.

[wilderness01]

Honestly, I worry about the cleanliness issue at YC/BC as it relates to SAB. A few years ago, there was an E Coli outbreak at a water park near our house and a bunch of kids got very sick (one died). We also have a friend that got a very serious infection after swimming in a (different) non-DVC Disney pool. Does anyone know how strict the SAB people are about monitoring the pool chemicals and making sure all toddlers and babies are wearing swim diapers?


We were there the summer of 2002 and there was a "poop incident" in the pool. I was horrified that they only closed off that section of the pool for a time period and not the whole pool. The section right next to the closed down section was open and people were swimming right there. It was gross. Little kids get water in their mouth all the time and accidently swallow. You could get very, very sick from e-coli. What was Disney thinking? We were just in Universal over Spring Break and again there was a "poop incident." They closed down the pool for 2 hours and cleared the entire pool. They went back and super shocked the pool a few times and then took water samples away from the pool. I would rather a resort went overboard and was extra cautious then treat it as flippant as the YC/BC did that one summer.

To the OP: Sorry you had cleanliness problems. Unfortunately this is not an isolated incident. We have had cleanliness issues at BWV, BCV and OKW. VWL was ok with just some minor cleaning issues that I fixed without ever making a call to anyone. We are now selling our DVC and will stay in the regular hotel rooms or over at Universal. Portifino Bay was immaculate and blew away any of the deluxe accomodations at Disney. This is coming from a true Disney fan that loves Disney over Universal any day of the year. But enough is enough. I have just recently stayed in a deluxe at Disney and I felt the regular old hotel room was cleaner than the DVC resorts. I can't believe that a regular hotel room doesn't get as much wear and tear as a DVC resort. Yes I know it gets regular, daily cleaning, but the filth at the DVC resorts is more then vaccuming the rugs, washing down the sink. I am talking deep down filth that is overlooked. I want my $$ back and can not overlook this any longer. I guess some people will say then if it bothers you that much than you should sell or good for us, less competition to use our points then. Whatever your feeling, I truly have had enough with the DVC resorts. It is a shame because I have only owned since 2001. I can't believe if it is this not cared for now, what will it be years from now? I will not stick around to find out. Will we still go to WDW and stay in a deluxe because of our family size? Yes, but just not as often. We were going down 2 to 3 times a year. We will now go and spend our hard earned $$ elsewhere. Just my opinion and I know on this board it will not be a popular one.

[phyllisnnj]

I am a germ-a-phobic and carry Lysol and sanitizing wipes to wipe down even the cleanest-looking rooms, so a little "touch up" does not bother me at all. I also am very easy to get along with and almost never complain (especially not at Disney) - BUT, the condition of that room would have freaked me out. That's not just "worn" from popularity - that's filthy.

Honestly, I worry about the cleanliness issue at YC/BC as it relates to SAB. A few years ago, there was an E Coli outbreak at a water park near our house and a bunch of kids got very sick (one died). We also have a friend that got a very serious infection after swimming in a (different) non-DVC Disney pool. Does anyone know how strict the SAB people are about monitoring the pool chemicals and making sure all toddlers and babies are wearing swim diapers?

Glad the rest of your grand gathering was good. Were you in a GV at SSR?

I really wanted to stay in a SSR Grand Villa but I chose a longer stay in the smaller villas vs the shorter stay in the grand villa. I also discovered that the OKW GV is about the same number of points as a two bedroom and studio at SSR during Dream season. We loved the OKW GV layout. The OKW grand villa is much larger than the SSR grand villa especially the Living room (see link to photos below to compare) and it also has a very large balcony.
http://dvc.disney.go.com/dvc/guest/resorts/resortLanding?id=OldKeyWestResortLandingPage (see 360 Tour)
http://dvc.disney.go.com/dvc/guest/resorts/resortLanding?id=SaratogaSpringsLandingPage (see 360 Tours)


My extended family including myself are germ-a-phobic too !! LOL, we also wipe down all rooms even the cleanest looking rooms (switches, telephones, door handles, countertops, cabinets, microwave, toliets, etc). After we're done our rooms are basically cleaner than we received them.

All of the ladies (including me) freaked out when they saw the sofa and bench. It was the first thing they saw when they entered the room. I didn't mention anything to my extended family about my previous experience or what I read/hear about the BCV villas. I just didn't want them to have any negative opinions about the place. I didn't even make it to the living room before they started about the sofa & the bench. We already stayed at SSR, OKW and HGVC and they were not spotless. There were small stains on the chairs & sofa at the other places but not to this extent.

[phyllisnnj]

Looks like water stains and maybe drink stains on the sitting areas with the exception of the darker stains. *ick* Besides the stains was the room itself clean?
I think Disney really should work on housekeeping at ALL their resorts.

I did a quick glance at the other areas. I think eveything else in the 2 bedroom villa looked clean (a little worn but clean) but I really didn't spend much time in the room. Once the ladies in my grand gathering started freaking out about the sofa and bench in the two bedroom villa and started asking me if we can get another room, I headed down to the front desk and requested a move back to SSR.

[phyllisnnj]

Honestly, I worry about the cleanliness issue at YC/BC as it relates to SAB. A few years ago, there was an E Coli outbreak at a water park near our house and a bunch of kids got very sick (one died). We also have a friend that got a very serious infection after swimming in a (different) non-DVC Disney pool. Does anyone know how strict the SAB people are about monitoring the pool chemicals and making sure all toddlers and babies are wearing swim diapers?


We were there the summer of 2002 and there was a "poop incident" in the pool. I was horrified that they only closed off that section of the pool for a time period and not the whole pool. The section right next to the closed down section was open and people were swimming right there. It was gross. Little kids get water in their mouth all the time and accidently swallow. You could get very, very sick from e-coli. What was Disney thinking? We were just in Universal over Spring Break and again there was a "poop incident." They closed down the pool for 2 hours and cleared the entire pool. They went back and super shocked the pool a few times and then took water samples away from the pool. I would rather a resort went overboard and was extra cautious then treat it as flippant as the YC/BC did that one summer.

To the OP: Sorry you had cleanliness problems. Unfortunately this is not an isolated incident. We have had cleanliness issues at BWV, BCV and OKW. VWL was ok with just some minor cleaning issues that I fixed without ever making a call to anyone. We are now selling our DVC and will stay in the regular hotel rooms or over at Universal. Portifino Bay was immaculate and blew away any of the deluxe accomodations at Disney. This is coming from a true Disney fan that loves Disney over Universal any day of the year. But enough is enough. I have just recently stayed in a deluxe at Disney and I felt the regular old hotel room was cleaner than the DVC resorts. I can't believe that a regular hotel room doesn't get as much wear and tear as a DVC resort. Yes I know it gets regular, daily cleaning, but the filth at the DVC resorts is more then vaccuming the rugs, washing down the sink. I am talking deep down filth that is overlooked. I want my $$ back and can not overlook this any longer. I guess some people will say then if it bothers you that much than you should sell or good for us, less competition to use our points then. Whatever your feeling, I truly have had enough with the DVC resorts. It is a shame because I have only owned since 2001. I can't believe if it is this not cared for now, what will it be years from now? I will not stick around to find out. Will we still go to WDW and stay in a deluxe because of our family size? Yes, but just not as often. We were going down 2 to 3 times a year. We will now go and spend our hard earned $$ elsewhere. Just my opinion and I know on this board it will not be a popular one.

Thanks for sharing. Sorry to hear that you're selling. I hope you will write to upper management about your disappointment and intentions to sell. I'm already thinking about selling so I know I will do the same if things don't change. However if it comes down to this, my dollars won't go back to the smaller deluxe resort rooms, I would just stay offsite. And like you, we would go less often.

[calypso*a*go-go]

Sorry to hear of so many uncleanliness issues at various DVC resorts. Is the root of the problem the fact that there aren't enough Mousekeepers to do the job well? With the short turn-around time between guests, I don't see how one person could give the room a decent cleaning. They really should work in pairs and have one vacuum/dust, while the other wipes down all the surfaces with some type of cleaning solution. Also, they must have extra cushions for the couch/dining booth. You'd think they'd just be able to trade out the filthy ones that OP had for some that had already been cleaned. I hope anyone that experiences something like this contacts Mousekeeping immediately and then follows it up with a call to the front desk/manager as well.

[vonderbar]

Your photos speak volumes. I am glad you are going to submit them to the powers that be, who can hopefull resolve this issue.As DVC Members, we are to treat these villas as our homes. I understand spills and such happen. If you can't get it cleaned up yourself, call Housekeeping. Would you want your home to look like this, let alone have a guest have to see it? I also ask, where is the quality control managers? Don't they ever do an inspection of these rooms? These photos look like these spills and stains have been there quite awhile. Where is the maintenance portion of dues going?

[emma'smom]

We have a reservation for a 2 BR at BCV for March 2007. We are taking my parents with us and i really want it be a special trip (since they may not go again if it isn't). I chose BCV because of location and to try Stormalong Bay...but maybe I should see if i can still switch back to SSR. We're staying at SSR next May. It is so fresh and clean. I understanding older resorts won't have that "brand new smell", but it seems like they should be clean and just as free of wear and tear as regular hotel rooms- after all, they do rent these rooms for cash ressies too.

[wilderness01]

phyllisnnj wrote:

Thanks for sharing. Sorry to hear that you're selling. I hope you will write to upper management about your disappointment and intentions to sell. I'm already thinking about selling so I know I will do the same if things don't change. However if it comes down to this, my dollars won't go back to the smaller deluxe resort rooms, I would just stay offsite. And like you, we would go less often.

Unfortunately I have already done that, along with contacting the management of OKW while we were there. The executive office person that contacted me said that this was a very uncommon problem that he had never heard before and that actually mine was the first complaint they had received regarding cleanliness. How could he have said that with an even tone of his voice? He said actually people always praised the cleanliness of the resorts, especially DVC . He was lying that is a fact. I have definately noticed a decline in mousekeeping over the years. That is why we are selling. I cringe to think of how it will be in years to come, especially as the contract is coming to the end.

[Sammie]

Sorry to hear of so many uncleanliness issues at various DVC resorts. Is thenough Mousekeepers to do the job well?e root of the problem the fact that there aren't With the short turn-around time between guests, I don't see how one person could give the room a decent cleaning. They really should work in pairs and have one vacuum/dust, while the other wipes down all the surfaces with some type of cleaning solution. Also, they must have extra cushions for the couch/dining booth. You'd think they'd just be able to trade out the filthy ones that OP had for some that had already been cleaned. I hope anyone that experiences something like this contacts Mousekeeping immediately and then follows it up with a call to the front desk/manager as well.

Definitely they are short housekeeping staff. Personally I would rather they go to a mandatory 4pm check in like most Time Shares and do a better job cleaning.

I think they are slimply hitting the high spots and not really cleaning, just changing beds, cleaning bathrooms and vacuming down the middle of each room.

[LakeAriel]

Honestly, I worry about the cleanliness issue at YC/BC as it relates to SAB. A few years ago, there was an E Coli outbreak at a water park near our house and a bunch of kids got very sick (one died). We also have a friend that got a very serious infection after swimming in a (different) non-DVC Disney pool. Does anyone know how strict the SAB people are about monitoring the pool chemicals and making sure all toddlers and babies are wearing swim diapers?


We were there the summer of 2002 and there was a "poop incident" in the pool. I was horrified that they only closed off that section of the pool for a time period and not the whole pool. The section right next to the closed down section was open and people were swimming right there. It was gross. Little kids get water in their mouth all the time and accidently swallow. You could get very, very sick from e-coli. What was Disney thinking? We were just in Universal over Spring Break and again there was a "poop incident." They closed down the pool for 2 hours and cleared the entire pool. They went back and super shocked the pool a few times and then took water samples away from the pool. I would rather a resort went overboard and was extra cautious then treat it as flippant as the YC/BC did that one summer.

To the OP: Sorry you had cleanliness problems. Unfortunately this is not an isolated incident. We have had cleanliness issues at BWV, BCV and OKW. VWL was ok with just some minor cleaning issues that I fixed without ever making a call to anyone. We are now selling our DVC and will stay in the regular hotel rooms or over at Universal. Portifino Bay was immaculate and blew away any of the deluxe accomodations at Disney. This is coming from a true Disney fan that loves Disney over Universal any day of the year. But enough is enough. I have just recently stayed in a deluxe at Disney and I felt the regular old hotel room was cleaner than the DVC resorts. I can't believe that a regular hotel room doesn't get as much wear and tear as a DVC resort. Yes I know it gets regular, daily cleaning, but the filth at the DVC resorts is more then vaccuming the rugs, washing down the sink. I am talking deep down filth that is overlooked. I want my $$ back and can not overlook this any longer. I guess some people will say then if it bothers you that much than you should sell or good for us, less competition to use our points then. Whatever your feeling, I truly have had enough with the DVC resorts. It is a shame because I have only owned since 2001. I can't believe if it is this not cared for now, what will it be years from now? I will not stick around to find out. Will we still go to WDW and stay in a deluxe because of our family size? Yes, but just not as often. We were going down 2 to 3 times a year. We will now go and spend our hard earned $$ elsewhere. Just my opinion and I know on this board it will not be a popular one.

I recently got back from BCV and also had a disasterous stay. As a result of the condition of the one bedroom unit they assigned me and their cavalier attitude I am also selling as soon as my UY begins. I have also written to the President of DVC and Disney. I truly believe it is owners that they assign these pig stys to, because we have already purchased. I had been on a waitlist to buy more points and at BCV, I canceled in the nick of time.

[50 years Too!]

Okay, now I'm afraid! I just bought a resale at BCV and I'm thinking I've made a mistake.
Please, please, please, those of you who have had issues contact the powers to be and complain.
Just told my husband we need to send a preshipped box of cleaning supplies and to be aware we are spending our first afternoon cleaning.....
:sad2:

[FayeW]

I must confess to being shocked that some of you, as DVC owners, would place the blame for the mess on other owners, instead of on the housekeeping department, where it very clearly belongs! Granted, the other owners DID make the mess originally, however, part of the very considerable sum you paid for your points, as well as part of your yearly maintenance, was and is earmarked for housekeeping and general upkeep! Blaming guests for housekeeping not adequately doing the job they are paid (and let's not forget tipped!) to do is just nuts.

It IS ok to criticize Disney when they do something wrong.

[ryley26]

Fayew no one is saying Disney isn't to blame some but we are all reponsible for the upkeep. If you spill something clean it up before it stains. People scream on these boards daily that there room is not ready at 4:00. So if they have to steam clean every rug and couch for stains from members. The rugs in the halls need to be replaced and things need to be fixed in rooms but how many people take the time to call the desk to let them know about the problem.WE pay a premium for our membership and BCV needs to be updated and renovated. We are all responsible for these problems when we don't use the same rules we use in our own homes about eating and drinking. :sunny:

[Lasrnw]

"No one wants a clean room more than me, but I really think we all need to be more Proactive while there and less Reactive after we get home."From Sammy

I am sitting in a 1br at BCV as I type this....room was horrible, housekeeping did a terrible job, I called the front desk...they said they had no other rooms available and they would have the General Manager call me back THAT WAS ON FRIDAY!!! I cleaned the room and killed the bugs in the shower. I called down again on Saturday - no call back - so my choice was to go down to the desk and get mad at them or give up and enjoy my time here. I was also scheduled for trash/towel today and no one shoed up....so I threw the towels in the washer and will NEVER EVER stay here again.
So while I agree that it might be easier to handle things while you are on site, you must remember you are dealing with people who clearly don't care so the only one who would be upset is the member.

[Sammie]

I agree with Ryley26, Yes Disney needs to do their job, but just because one has a housekeeping service does not mean some of these stains could be avoided if dealt with at the time of the staining. I mean geez, take a wet cloth, a little soap and clean it up. The Mickey soap actually does a very good job of cleaning and so does the dishwashing liquid detergent.

Wear and tear is normal, stains left for someone else to clean up is just nasty.

I am glad that those with a less than stellar stay share it here, but if that is all they are doing it is never going to get any better. You have to let them know when you are there.

I think many things are contributing to this problem.
Lack of adequate staff.
Staff being rushed to get guests in a room prior to 4pm.
High occupancy daily levels and members and guests exceeding the recommeded allowed occupany levels. I mean it is simply physics, more people, more mess.
Members not reporting issues while there, because they don't want to disturb their vacation.
DVC not listening after the member gets home and then complains about problems. Out of sight, out of mind.
And this one bothers me most, I think Disney is taking better care of it's resort rooms than it's DVC rooms. And considering that the management at the BC/YC is the same for the BCV I lay that blame on DVC management and not the resort management.

[Sammie]

"No one wants a clean room more than me, but I really think we all need to be more Proactive while there and less Reactive after we get home."From Sammy

I am sitting in a 1br at BCV as I type this....room was horrible, housekeeping did a terrible job, I called the front desk...they said they had no other rooms available and they would have the General Manager call me back THAT WAS ON FRIDAY!!! I cleaned the room and killed the bugs in the shower. I called down again on Saturday - no call back - so my choice was to go down to the desk and get mad at them or give up and enjoy my time here. I was also scheduled for trash/towel today and no one shoed up....so I threw the towels in the washer and will NEVER EVER stay here again.
So while I agree that it might be easier to handle things while you are on site, you must remember you are dealing with people who clearly don't care so the only one who would be upset is the member.

Do not call the Front Desk, you only get the Call Center. Call Housekeeping, ask who is the Super on Duty, get their name, complain to them. When you call the Front Desk, your call is answered by the Call Center and I truly do not believe they are leaving these messsages.

Believe me if I did not hear from someone after calling the proper channels I would be at the Front Desk, asking to see the on duty manager.

[LakeAriel]

I agree with Ryley26, Yes Disney needs to do their job, but just because one has a housekeeping service does not mean some of these stains could be avoided if dealt with at the time of the staining. I mean geez, take a wet cloth, a little soap and clean it up. The Mickey soap actually does a very good job of cleaning and so does the dishwashing liquid detergent.

Wear and tear is normal, stains left for someone else to clean up is just nasty.

I am glad that those with a less than stellar stay share it here, but if that is all they are doing it is never going to get any better. You have to let them know when you are there.

I think many things are contributing to this problem.
Lack of adequate staff.
Staff being rushed to get guests in a room prior to 4pm.
High occupancy daily levels and members and guests exceeding the recommeded allowed occupany levels. I mean it is simply physics, more people, more mess.
Members not reporting issues while there, because they don't want to disturb their vacation.
DVC not listening after the member gets home and then complains about problems. Out of sight, out of mind.
And this one bothers me most, I think Disney is taking better care of it's resort rooms than it's DVC rooms. And considering that the management at the BC/YC is the same for the BCV I lay that blame on DVC management and not the resort management.

I have been thinking about the manager situation and think DVC needs to have their own manager on site at Villa's.

[Lasrnw]

I spoke to the on-duty manager on Friday who was going to have the General Manager call me back...because he said they had no other rooms in the entire resort....I responded that if a member of the first family flew in they would have another room. And I found myself getting all upset, don't get me wrong I wanted to go to the front desk and straighten it out...but whoever I spoke to clearly, in my opinion, did not give a hoot.
So I will not stay here again....no one, not a single person has said Welcome Home since we got here....and that's really why I joined DVC anyway....I sure do love that Welcome Home!!

[JENR]

I am very nervous. I leave Sun for BCV 1 bedroom. I am wondering if I should switch to BWV instead now that I hear this.

[LakeAriel]

I am very nervous. I leave Sun for BCV 1 bedroom. I am wondering if I should switch to BWV instead now that I hear this.

This may be just the time to go. There have been many serious compliants made in the past few weeks (one with photo's) and I would hope they are extra diligent to satisfy DVC members. If not please report it ASAP.

[LakeAriel]

Back from OKW, BCV, SSR & HGVC

We had a wonderful time at Disney World. The August crowds weren’t too bad and Tour Guide Mike was great once again.

SSR [2 nights] – This is my third time staying at this resort. I’ve stayed in the Congress and Springs sections and I’ve been happy with both. This is still my favorite DVC resort.
PROS: Newest (however I’m worried about upkeep based on the older resorts I’ve visited); Zero Entry Main Pool
CONS: This place is going to be big they’ll need another main pool. Hopefully another zero entry with a separate 1 ft children’s pool

OKW [3 nights]– This was my first time and we were in a Grand Villa. Everyone loved the layout. The space worked perfectly for our grand gathering. The master bedroom was huge and I loved the extra shower downstairs. I was little surprise how small the upstairs bathrooms were. There is just enough space for the door to clear the toilet and tub.
PROS: Space and size (great for large groups).
CONS: Cleanliness - Looked clean when we entered. We normally do a basic cleaning when we arrive. Cleaned and removed dead bugs found in the cabinets. Kitchen floor was sticky. Cleaned and removed white caked on stain on the sofa. The living room table and coffee table turned our cleaning cloths black. Since we had a toddler, I focused on areas at her level that she would touch – TV cabinet was sticky, cabinet doors dirty, etc. Thick Black build-up (mold??) on all showerhead sprays (really yucky – like it hadn't been cleaned in months (maybe years)).

Hilton Grand Vacations Club (HGVC) on International Drive [3 nights] – This is my third time staying at this resort. Stayed in a three-bedroom villa for the first time. We normally do 3 night weekend stay here.
PROS: Newest (Cleaner than the Disney properties); onsite Pizza Hut express
CONS: The three bedroom was not as big as I was hoping for. (LOL, staying at the spacious OKW Grand Villa prior to moving here probably didn’t help)

BCV [3 nights] – This is my second time staying at this resort. I wasn’t impressed with BCV based on cleanliness and maintenance issues with my last visit but I loved the idea of walking to EPCOT. So I decided to try it again for my grand gathering, hoping that we just had a very worn room during our first visit. We had a two bedroom and a one bedroom. Well, we actually didn’t stay. When we finally got our rooms, my grand gathering party wasn’t very happy with the condition of the room. It just didn’t seem clean enough and of course it was a little worn. Actually it was better that my first visit. They had just stayed at SSR, OKW and HGVC. Instead of requesting another room, I decided that it would be best to head back to SSR. I went down to the front desk and stated that my party didn’t like BCV and prefer to go back to SSR. I was armed with my camera in hand and prepared to answer questions on why we wanted to move but they never asked me. I was later told at both locations that SSR folks generally ask to move back to their home resort. The move was easy since we never took our luggage out of the cars. I guess as long as we have water park passes I won’t be staying at BCV in the future.
PROS: location close to EPCOT & MGM, various onsite dining options including character dining
CONS: Housekeeping ignores issues that are clearly visible. I asked my sister who has traded her timeshares over the last 10 years if she has ever encountered room maintenance issues like this. She stated that she hadn’t. In fact she preferred HGVC out of all of the villas we stayed. She liked the SSR pool but preferred the cleanliness and stocked kitchen at HGVC. I was hoping to convince her to buy DVC with this trip.

I hope DVC is listening and spends more time and money on cleanliness and maintenance.
Here are some BCV pictures http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/phyllisnnj/album?.dir=ebf4re2&.src=ph
I wish I had taken the time to document all of the problems especially the showerheads at OKW.

LESSONS LEARN:
(1) No More than one move per trip. I wanted my family to experience the different DVC resorts but we wasted most of the day packing and unpacking.
(2) Grand Villa works best for large groups of people to relax, talk and eat meals together.

DVC, HGVC & FSRC member

Disgusting! Kudo's to you for taking those pictures!

[JENR]

This may be just the time to go. There have been many serious compliants made in the past few weeks (one with photo's) and I would hope they are extra diligent to satisfy DVC members. If not please report it ASAP.

Thank you. You made me feel better.

I was totally freaking out because this will be our first trip HOME as Dvc members and I don't want my husband to say "See we probably should have looked into this more before we bought" We have stayed at Beach Club Resort several times and it has always been very clean. I just can't imagine BCV being that filthy. I really don't understand how DVC would let this happen.

Oh well. I hope your right.

[Buckalew11]

Okay, now I'm afraid! I just bought a resale at BCV and I'm thinking I've made a mistake.
Please, please, please, those of you who have had issues contact the powers to be and complain.
Just told my husband we need to send a preshipped box of cleaning supplies and to be aware we are spending our first afternoon cleaning.....
:sad2:

You and me both. I won't be at BCV unilt May. But I'll have (hopefully) SSR and OKW to compare it to within DVC resorts. I am hoping I didn't make a mistake buying in at BCV or into DVC period. I know these boards are a small part of what happens at DVC resorts but there are so many complaints about cleanliness. I don't want to walk into a room full of someone else's garbage, leftover food, stains, bugs, hair etc.
I am hoping to be nicely surprised by how clean the places are. Hoping, hoping, hoping...

[LakeAriel]

If DVC looks at my record they will see that I referred three people to them, one who bought. Between that and the fact I am selling, added to numerous other complaints, and I think they will make an attempt to straighten out, at least I hope.
The housekeeping manager thanked me for pointing out the unacceptable condition of my unit and I believe he, unlike most, meant it. He did have a department come in and start removing wasp nests from right outside my broken balcony door and around the resort. I showed him that there were dozens of nests under the under hang. I mean people have serious allergies to these things, what were they thinking? On the other hand if you don't go the extra mile and let them know it won't be corrected. My adrenalin was flowing overtime, I was so mad, so believe me everyone in charge knows now. I am awaiting word from. Mr. Lewis. Something tells me my adrenalin may be pumping again. :rolleyes:
DVC members should not be getting inferior units!!!!!!!!

[calypso*a*go-go]

I don't really think they will do anything about the cleanliness issues because they feel once people get home they forget (and the constant sold-out occupancy rate at BCV supports this theory). In my opinion, anyone that is a contract owner at BCV should be sending a registered letter to the head honchos @ DVC stating they are very concerned about recent reports regarding the upkeep of the villas. Maybe if enough people respond they will realize that their performance has been substandard and will actually take some steps to improve the situation.

[bcvillastwo]

There is no doubt that the OP had valid complaints about the cleanliness of her BCV room. However, with that said, it's been my experience that when there are posts like this they are always followed by others who recall their own horrow stories which are then followed by the "I hope I don't have these problems on my upcoming trip" crowd. We went through this same roller coaster the 2nd or 3rd time we stayed at BCV. We were concerned that housekeeping quality had declined. Happily on our next and every visit afterwards things have been fine in our rooms.

To date we've stayed at BCV at 7 or 8 times during the past 3 years and we are going again in 3 weeks. We've been in studio's, one bdrms, and two bdrms. In all of those stays we never had an experience remotely similar to the OP's or anyone else who's exerienced similar things at BCV. We've also stayed at WLV, SSR, BWV, and HHI. Again, we never experienced anything like the OP or the others who have had simiar experiences.

I travel a great deal on my job. I've stayed in flea bags, moderate, and high priced motels and hotels and believe me the quality of some of these places at all accomodation levels ranges from extremely poor to exceptional. From my vantage point overall Disney in general and DVC in specific tends to do a better job overall and is more consistent overall than any place I stay. But my experiences are only my experiences. In addition, we all have different standards when it comes to cleanliness.

One more point, DVC has over 100,000 members now but I'm betting that only a fraction of them read/post comments on the DVC sectionof DIS Boards. In fact, someone was running a count of how many DVC members use these boards and after a week or so the number was less than 800. I realize the 800 count is probably not 100% accurate but it does offer a glimmer at the number posting/reading vs. those not reading and posting and the number reading and posting pales in comparison to the overall membership of over 100,000. I say these things to keep things in perspective. My generally good experiences at BCV offer one perspective, the OP's and others in this threat who've had bad experiences offer another perspective but overall we represent just a miniscule number of the members who actually stay at BCV.

What evidence do we have that the OP's or my experience represents any kind of a norm? Not much.

Again, before any one goes off on me, in no way am I dimishing the OP's or anyone else's concerns about the cleanliness of BCV. I am just trying to offer a little perspective. Thankfully, if you are a BCV owner and you decide to sell because you've determined that BCV is not clean enough to suit your tastes you can sell and sell quickly and probably make a little profit for your troube. Which means that in spite of your bad experience you will come out better than whole for spending your hard earned money on BCV. For that you can than Disney World and it overall good reputation of a quality place to vacation.

[LakeAriel]

I for one did not add my name to the DVCers on the boards. It wasn't something I found I wanted to do. So, yes, I am sure many others who own are reading and responding. I am glad you had good experiences but as you conceded it doesn't diminish the horrible ones others of us have had. Indeed I have written to both the New President of Disney and also the new Presdident of DVC. Though I will sell, at least my bigger contract, I hope for the rest of you who invested so much money that they get on top of all these complaints and show some respect to the owners.

[bzzelady]

Some of the BCV owners need to bring the pictures posted in this thread to the annual meeting on December 5th and very politely demand some action of the part of the DVC Mousekeepers management.
(I am going to be there during that time but I am not a BCV owner so I don't think that I can attend)

Going backwards in the thread, I agree with one of the early posters that care needs to be taken by our fellow members in the manner that they treat and upkeep the rooms. Just to give you an example-whenever I have rented at the beach, I have to pay a security deposit...which is not released until the condition of my unit is reported after my departure. Maybe DVC needs to consider a "point penalty" if the room is unreasonably unclean and stained (don't report me as an evil one to the tag fairy for this yet until I finish my thought).

Maybe Mousekeeping needs to have their managers look over the condition of a room that is particularly poor before they start cleaning it so that a point penalty of....let's say....30 points....can be assessed on the member's account. A few of these situations with people getting docked points noted on these boards and people will strive to keep the rooms cleaner, throw away the food that they have no intention of eating, and load/run the dishwasher before they leave. If you create a large spill on the carpet, pick up the telephone and call Mousekeeping...profusely apologize and request that the carpet/upholstry be cleaned before the stain sets in. It's the least you can do...would you let it fester at home? (if you do, I don't want to visit your house)

This would not only encourage members to treat their "part-time home" with more respect, but would also encourage Mousekeepers to communicate more with their management when they are faced with a daunting task and knowing that cleaning that one unit will take them as much time as it would to clean four relatively clean units.
DVC Mousekeepers are paid per unit cleaned, not hourly as the rest of the WDW Mousekeepers are...and this may very well be part of the problem!!! I

As one other poster noted, if these problems are not reported to a Mousekeeping supervisor/general manager on the spot, it will only leave a problem for the next person who stays in the room.
So please...take your digital cameras down to the desk but ask for a Mousekeeping supervisor to meet you at the room so you can point out the issues firsthand.

[LakeAriel]

Some of the BCV owners need to bring the pictures posted in this thread to the annual meeting on December 5th and very politely demand some action of the part of the DVC Mousekeepers management.
(I am going to be there during that time but I am not a BCV owner so I don't think that I can attend)

Going backwards in the thread, I agree with one of the early posters that care needs to be taken by our fellow members in the manner that they treat and upkeep the rooms. Just to give you an example-whenever I have rented at the beach, I have to pay a security deposit...which is not released until the condition of my unit is reported after my departure. Maybe DVC needs to consider a "point penalty" if the room is unreasonably unclean and stained (don't report me as an evil one to the tag fairy for this yet until I finish my thought).

Maybe Mousekeeping needs to have their managers look over the condition of a room that is particularly poor before they start cleaning it so that a point penalty of....let's say....30 points....can be assessed on the member's account. A few of these situations with people getting docked points noted on these boards and people will strive to keep the rooms cleaner, throw away the food that they have no intention of eating, and load/run the dishwasher before they leave. If you create a large spill on the carpet, pick up the telephone and call Mousekeeping...profusely apologize and request that the carpet/upholstry be cleaned before the stain sets in. It's the least you can do...would you let it fester at home? (if you do, I don't want to visit your house)

This would not only encourage members to treat their "part-time home" with more respect, but would also encourage Mousekeepers to communicate more with their management when they are faced with a daunting task and knowing that cleaning that one unit will take them as much time as it would to clean four relatively clean units.
DVC Mousekeepers are paid per unit cleaned, not hourly as the rest of the WDW Mousekeepers are...and this may very well be part of the problem!!! I

As one other poster noted, if these problems are not reported to a Mousekeeping supervisor/general manager on the spot, it will only leave a problem for the next person who stays in the room.
So please...take your digital cameras down to the desk but ask for a Mousekeeping supervisor to meet you at the room so you can point out the issues firsthand.

I agree with you 100%. One thing you overlook though is that these units are frequented by renters staying at less then they can get a moderate. They really aren't going to respect it as their home. :sad2:

[ton80]

This nov will be our 2nd trip as DVC members (Stayed last Year at SSR)
very clean and basically Brand New. But I do not expect BCV to compare
to SSR with the "new" smell or look. But any advice would be great?
Reason we are staying at BCV is SAB and location (for DS 4 yrs old)

Dixie Landings 9/98 Honeymoon
All star sports 9/99
off site 05/01
BWV 11/04
AKL 03/05
SSR 11/05
BCV 11/06

[Lasrnw]

After coming to the end of our last EVER visit to BVC ( you couldn't pay me to stay there again) on our day of checkout we get a knock on the door at 8:05am....it is housekeeping asking if we are checking out that day, I say yes and she asks how soon we'll be out...I say before the 11 check out time and she leaves. At 8:45 we get another knock on the door and it's the same woman and she asks again when we are leaving...I again tell her we will be out before the 11 am check out time. (Yes it is true) at 9:15 she knocks again and I open the door and she tells me that we need to get out of the room now because she has to clean it for the next guests and she is very busy today. My jaw dropped to the floor and I laughed and told her that I had already cleaned the room when we checked in so she didn't need to worry about it and at 10:45 we left BCV never to return again.

[mmmcq]

Lasrnw,

I'm sure if you don't want to return to BCV that your reasons are valid. But the departure scenario with housekeeping that you described is not just related to BCV. It's hotel industry wide.

We spent the better portion of our summer on the road looking at colleges and primarily staying in Marriott hotels for the reward points which I frequently use. Three weeks ago we drove from Boston to Philly overnight and arrived at 2am. We had a 10 appt the next morning so I let the girls sleep in late. Unfortunately, in my haste to get us tucked in earlier that am, I had neglected to put the "do not disturb" cards in the access card holder.

We got the 7:55 am rapping on the doors (two rooms) from housekeeping while I was in the shower. I heard them but couldn't do anything about it. They rapped again at 8:15 and by that time I was dressed and able to grab the cards off the doors, put them up and shoe them off.

When we were in the lobby departing I complained to the Manager. I told him that after almost 20 hotel stays in 6 months, that was the most obnoxious housekeeping staff I had encountered (the rapping was really really loud and grating). I asked if there wasn't a central report for each floor which accounted for who had already checked out as early as 8am. Otherwise, I strongly suggested, they should wait till at least 8:30 before loudly rapping on the door as they had done.

After you got the first knock I would have called housekeeping and told them you weren't leaving until closer to checkout time. It's something I frequently do to ensure that we aren't bothered - at Disney or on the road elsewhere.

[jaysue]

This nov will be our 2nd trip as DVC members (Stayed last Year at SSR)
very clean and basically Brand New. But I do not expect BCV to compare
to SSR with the "new" smell or look. But any advice would be great?
Reason we are staying at BCV is SAB and location (for DS 4 yrs old)

Dixie Landings 9/98 Honeymoon
All star sports 9/99
off site 05/01
BWV 11/04
AKL 03/05
SSR 11/05
BCV 11/06

I would stand pat with your choice - you will enjoy BCV - we have stayed at BWV, VWL, OKW, SSR and BCV (and others) - our kids love BCV due to SAB and walking to Epcot and sauntering along the boardwalk - you will enjoy it there. We have had in a number of stays, an experience similar to the OP on one occassion - we went to the reservations/restaurant desk at BC and did not move one inch (we were very polite and firm) until someone accompanied us back to the room. We left the room and when we returned back it had been cleaned to the best of their ability given that the stains had mostly set.

Keep your ressie, it's a great place

Cheers
jaysue

[lisaviolet]

After coming to the end of our last EVER visit to BVC ( you couldn't pay me to stay there again) on our day of checkout we get a knock on the door at 8:05am....it is housekeeping asking if we are checking out that day, I say yes and she asks how soon we'll be out...I say before the 11 check out time and she leaves. At 8:45 we get another knock on the door and it's the same woman and she asks again when we are leaving...I again tell her we will be out before the 11 am check out time. (Yes it is true) at 9:15 she knocks again and I open the door and she tells me that we need to get out of the room now because she has to clean it for the next guests and she is very busy today. My jaw dropped to the floor and I laughed and told her that I had already cleaned the room when we checked in so she didn't need to worry about it and at 10:45 we left BCV never to return again.


Holy @#@#!!!!!

[TracyK]

I agree with you 100%. One thing you overlook though is that these units are frequented by renters staying at less then they can get a moderate. They really aren't going to respect it as their home. :sad2:
What an offensive comment. Would you be the same person who is trying to sell a reservation to renters who aren't going to respect the property.

[bzzelady]

I agree with you 100%. One thing you overlook though is that these units are frequented by renters staying at less then they can get a moderate. They really aren't going to respect it as their home. :sad2:

Well, then the savvy DVC member who rents needs to, in turn, charge a deposit in cash equal to the points that could be potentially removed from the account in case of damage with the deposit then to be returned 1 month after checkout to ensure that MS has cleared the account.

Just a thought that may make members and renters more accountable.

[corpcomp]

Back in July when we stayed at BCV our room was clean. No real issues and we had a great time. We will definitely be back.

Sorry you did not and we understand considering the pictures. I've read posts saying its housekeeping and other saying its owner / renters. Its really both and I hope for your sake SSR will not look like that in another 4 years but it very well might if owners / renters and housekeeping act the same way there.

However it is time for new furniture at BCV. I wonder how much has been allocated to the replacement fund at this point? I hope all those attending the December meeting bring this up vocally and get some firm answers.

Is there a way that emails can be sent in in support of this at the meeting?

[LakeAriel]

Well, then the savvy DVC member who rents needs to, in turn, charge a deposit in cash equal to the points that could be potentially removed from the account in case of damage with the deposit then to be returned 1 month after checkout to ensure that MS has cleared the account.

Just a thought that may make members and renters more accountable.


I think that is a good idea!

[LakeAriel]

What an offensive comment. Would you be the same person who is trying to sell a reservation to renters who aren't going to respect the property.

I didn't mean to offend you. My answer is in response to the response by some that owners need to take better care of their units. Often it is not the owner in the unit. And I do not believe a person paying less then $80 per night for a deluxe room is going to have the same investment and respect for the property as someone paying for a timeshare and yearly dues.
I have stayed in a value, (POP) a moderate, ( POFQ) and a deluxe, (BCV) this past year. The only resort I had problems in was in the deluxe. I was as careful in the value as the deluxe and I am sure most are. I am also sure some owners cause damage too. That said I still believe an owner whose dues pay for upkeep are going to care a lot more about how the unit is taken care of.

[JUDSON]

as bcv owners, we've been staying there for the past three years . before every trip it's like the same thing: i skim these boards, see what's been going on at bcv, and more often then not i come across an unfortunate thread as this one.

so we fly down expecting the worse, but we never experience any of the problems. i do not doubt these problems have not occurred and i really feel for the op, but i guess we're just lucky. never had a problem checking in, never had a problem with cm's, never had an unclean or damaged room, never had a problem with mousekeeping. i think the only bad things were our tv remote and kitchen spatula were once missing (we had both in less than 2 min. after our initial call to the front desk).

as far as mouskeeping goes... we get daily housekeeping whenever we go. our last trip (10/2005) i noticed that, in passing in the hallways, mousekeepers were making an effort to say 'hello'/'good morning'/etc. to us and our young children; it was really nice to experience this every day.

so now that i've probably put the hex on my next trip (3 weeks away)... i just hope that our luck holds out. to those of you out there doubing their bcv purchase, try not to worry. i don't think bcv is in the toilet just yet; whatever the issue is over there, i'm sure it is managable.

[Scotch]

JENR - Just wondering about the condition of your BCV room???