Max. of 4 in Disney Resorts??

[BUZZ'SMOM]

Hi all.

Ok, so I've read about all the magic you get from staying on-site. However, we are a family of 5 wanting to stay at a Disney Resort in early June, e.g., All Star Movie, Music or Sports. It seems all of these resorts have an in room maximum of 4. I was quite disappointed that I would have to pay for another room to accommodate my family. I just can't believe that these days, the average family still consists of only 4 members. How unfair is this?

Anyone else run into this problem. There has to be! Care to share your thoughts or suggestions on this one?

Also, how do families continue to go on vacation having to pay outrageous rates like the Poly, Wildnerness, etc. I would think they would want to draw more people to their resorts by allowing them to pay less. I have read about the cheaper rates, but again only for a family of 4.

Unfortunately, I do believe I will have to select a roomier, cheaper hotel off-site!
:(

[WDWguru]

That's the price you pay for staying on-site. I personally can't imagine cramming more than four people into an AS room - not to mention sharing the bathroom! Obviously Disney has no trouble selling out their resorts to families who can afford their accomodations. It's not a matter of fair or unfair - is it unfair if I can't drive a Porsche every day? No, and I'm perfectly happy with my little Mazda. We all make compromises and nobody "owes" us anything. If you want to take your brood to Disney, you may have to make a sacrifice - pay a little more to stay on-site or stay off property.

Just my 2 cents.

[Disney Doll]

From what I understand, that is one of the rules for the AllStars. I know that at Port Orleans Riverside there are some rooms that allow 5...I thnk they have a trundle bed or something. Of course, the YC/BC and other deluxes will go 5, but then the cost can be prohibitive. Perhpas PO-R is a good compromise??

[Swan]

I know how you feel. Last June we had already booked a room when my sister asked me to take my nephew(9a small 9 y/o). When I added him to our room they would not let me stay at the resort I had booked. They said I could stay at PO, but I did want to. I ended up staying at the Swan who gave me a free roll a way bed:D .

[Ricola]

BUZZ'S MOM,

I can certainly understand your position; WDW resorts do have limited options for families your size, and the prices for the rooms at some of them can seem quite outrageous. This is an area where some of the offsite resorts offer some real advantages over Disney. For more info on them, I suggest you visit the Orlando Hotels and Attractions (http://disboards.com/forumdisplay.php?s=&forumid=15) board. I'm sure there are plenty of offsite options, and that may in fact be the best choice for you.

Personally, I've found the Disney resorts to all be a pretty good value for what they offer. Yes, the price tag can be high, but I think staying onsite can adds an intangible "magic" to a trip, so I would encourage you to try to find a way to stay onsite if you can.

The least expensive on-site option that I've found is to reserve a room at the Port Orleans Riverside resort in the "Bayou" section. They are quite nice rooms (we stayed there in Feb) and have two double beds and a trundle bed. It's my opinion that unless your kids were all teenagers, the room would nicely accomodate a family of 5. With a Disney Club Discount, they can be had for 25-50 bucks more than the all-stars, and offer (In my opinion) a much nicer resort experience to boot (nicer pools, a sit-down restaurant, better service, and nicer landscaping, etc.) I've stayed at many of the WDW resorts, and this is honestly one of my absolute favorites, regardless of price.

Good luck, and have a magical trip, wherever you choose to stay.

And hopefully, one day, Disney will realize that they're losing an important segment of the traveling public with their policies and room designs, and add some more reasonable priced options for larger families.

[tar heel]

As long as one of your kids is under 10, you can stay at Port Orleans-Riverside. I have that resort booked for 5 people the first week in June. The price was $94 plus a $15 extra person charge -- we've stayed there twice before and this is the best rate we've had. If you're interested in this, check mousesavers.com for discount codes and make sure to book by calling cro. Unfortunately, I believe the code I used has just expired.

[ducklite]

Originally posted by BUZZ'SMOM
I just can't believe that these days, the average family still consists of only 4 members. How unfair is this?

Also, how do families continue to go on vacation having to pay outrageous rates like the Poly, Wildnerness, etc. I would think they would want to draw more people to their resorts by allowing them to pay less. I have read about the cheaper rates, but again only for a family of 4.

In looking around at my friends, I would say that the AVERAGE is a family of three or four. I have a few friends with three kids, but most are either none, one, or two. It's not unfair at all. You CHOSE to have three kids. I CHOSE to have one. Does that mean that I should get a discount when I don't have four in the room?

As far as drawing more people to the resorts, they don't need to, especially with the value resorts, which are almost always full. During the times of year that they do need to fill rooms, they offer promos and lower room rates. The past six months were an anomolie within the travel industry as a whole.

There's nothing at all unfair about Disney's policies. They are standard throughout the industry. I compare the value resorts to budget hotels. Look at the Econolodge, Holiday Inn Express, Fairfield Inn, they only sleep four as well.

As far as the rates at the deluxe resorts being outrageous, I guess you don't travel much. They are actually comparable to the industry standard for resorts and hotels of their caliber. I don't find them "outrageous" at all, especially with all of the discounts, codes and deals available.

Anne

[Ricola]

Originally posted by ducklite

As far as drawing more people to the resorts, they don't need to, especially with the value resorts, which are almost always full. During the times of year that they do need to fill rooms, they offer promos and lower room rates. The past six months were an anomolie within the travel industry as a whole.


I have to disagree a little bit here. As a Disney shareholder (and not a shareholder in Holiday Inn, Sheraton, or any other offsite hotel), I feel that Disney is missing a very real segment of the market (families with 3 kids who want to visit Disney World, of which I'm sure there are millions).

Those people that do not want to spend 200 bucks a night for a room, and have 5 people to travel with are almost forced to stay offsite. That means hotel, meal, and souvenir dollars that are lost to Disney, not to mention the lost opportunity to impress a guest and earn their repeat business. I find it hard to believe that any business, especially Disney would not want to "draw more people" to their resorts. Why not offer a resort with inexpensive suites, or, a simpler solution (which wouldn't require redesigning a resort and which could utilize the existing ones), a discount when booking more than one room?

With a giant unfinished resort in Pop Century, and the slowing economy (which, by the way, certainly began well before 9/11), why would anyone want to chase away customers? Disney has yet to run out of space to build more rooms, and faces stronger than ever competition for the entertainment dollars that are out there.

While mine is a family of four, we often wish to travel to WDW with additional people, perhaps one of DSs friends, grandma, or a cousin. A little help in the cost of accomodations could well earn them an additional park pass, souvenirs, and meal on every trip we take.

[ducklite]

Again, they don't need to. The value resorts are almost always full. You are looking for more for the same price from a value resort. With their value resort occupancy rates being into the 90% or higher range year round, why on earth would they want to give more for the same thing? When you add in the convenience, the cost of parking and a rental car, and the quality of off-site budget accomodations v. on-site, in most cases it's a better deal to get two rooms at the all-stars than one off-site.

And not to start a war here, but face it, some of the people who complain the loudest are just going to put five in the room anyhow. They're probably also the people who don't understand why they can't swim at the themed pools at the deluxe resorts. Going back to the OP, "I had a bunch of kids, so the world should revolve around big families". It's the entitlement mentality.

Anne

PS--The US 2000 Census is pretty clear that in all the states compiled so far (which is more than half) the average household is some place between 2 and 3 people.

[Tina26]

"And not to start a war here, but face it, some of the people who complain the loudest are just going to put five in the room anyhow. They're probably also the people who don't understand why they can't swim at the themed pools at the deluxe resorts. Going back to the OP, "I had a bunch of kids, so the world should revolve around big families". It's the entitlement mentality." **posted by ducklite**

You make it sound as if families with three children are white trash!LOL I agree with what Ricola said. When Disney is building a new resort, why not include a limited amount of rooms that can accommodate a family of five? I'm sure most families would even be willing to pay a little extra for one of these rooms (extra person charge per night). I'm thinking maybe $15-$20 per night.

We don't care for the all-stars resorts, and the only way we will be able to stay at a deluxe resort next year (if we go next year) is to get a deluxe room, which the codes don't apply to. We can stay at a regular savannah room this year because my youngest son is two and can sleep in a crib. So this will probably be our last year staying on site because I just can't see paying over $300-$400 and up per night for a room, maybe if we were rich, but sadly............we're not:( :(

[WDWguru]

Originally posted by ducklite
PS--The US 2000 Census is pretty clear that in all the states compiled so far (which is more than half) the average household is some place between 2 and 3 people.

And get this! The fastest growing segment of the population is folks like DH and I - people who have chosen not to have ANY kids! So I'm waiting for Disney to announce my two-person room credit any day now :D

[ducklite]

Originally posted by Tina26
You make it sound as if families with three children are white trash!

No, you are putting words in my mouth. please go back and reread what I said.

They already have plenty of places that accomodate five. The DI, FW, and portions of PO, as well as CS. (You can get a rollaway at CS) Codes apply at all.

And there are discounts at the deluxes with AP and DC rates.

Anne

[Tina26]

But I wanna stay at AKL!!! (in a whiny voice while jummping up and down) he he!:bounce: :bounce: :bounce: We don't have ap and are not members of DC. Wish we did have ap though, I would probably live down there!:D

[Christi 2002]

I had the same thoughts. We have 3 children and ended up at the Contemporary for our June trip, but I thought it was very "strange" that none of the budget hotels slept 5 or more. This is our first trip down with the children. I know just as many people with 3 or more as I do with 1 or 2. We all know we have choices, I think the point was that is seemed "unfair" not to have budget options for larger families. And I agree. I too was shocked when I first started looking into hotel rooms for this trip. Just my 2 cents.
Christi

[WDWguru]

Tina, you may want to run some numbers. Depending on what discounts are available, it can be worthwhile to purchase an AP for a stay of just 3 days! Just one adult in your party needs to have one to get the AP room rate, so if it's available it may actually pay for itself and end up cheaper than a hopper or LOS pass.

[BUZZ'SMOM]

Thanks for all the comments. I do not feel I am owed anything for having an extra child. Yes, it was my choice - Children are the future. And I definitely did not want to start a war on this. I was just curious on some others thoughts on this. I appreciate all the feedback.

It is a fact, it can be harder for a family of 5 or more, for that matter to even go on a vacation to wdw in the first place, as the theme park tickets, food, etc. are all high priced as well. After all it is wdw. This could be why some kids will never get to experience their dream to visit a place like this.

I understand I can get a resort for over $200 a night, which I chose not to do. Since I have three boys (2 teens and a 6 yr old). I have selected the Holiday Inn Family Suites, which have a selection of rooms for all size families and it included a complimentary breakfast. Besides, hubby and I will appreciate the privacy from the boys. This is why I was disappointed when I found out that the resorts didn't have the same options. I was willing to pay more than an average family, for a bigger room, since I have a larger family. but I'm not willing to pay for 2 rooms. I'd rather spend my hard earned dollars on other things.

As a first time, for all of us, I'm sure we will enjoy ourselves no matter what.

Thanks.

[Ricola]

I think the original poster was just voicing her frustration at the lack of options available to her family when planning a visit to WDW. I didn't see anywhere that she said she was entitled to have more people stay for the same cost. What I saw was a wish that 5 people could stay for a more reasonable cost (as they can at offsite resorts...)

Disney obviously made the decision a decade or more ago that adding value and moderate resorts could bring them more dollars. And the throngs of guests (myself included) that visit each year are proof that there's a demand for them.

I suspect that having more options in the less-expensive range for larger families (or groups of friends, sports teams, extended families, etc.) would also prove very profitable for Disney, and bring them more visitors, which means more $$ to build more attractions at the parks!

I'm not suggesting that the "mini-suites" be the same price as the value resorts, but maybe a room large enough for 6 at a resort comparable in amenities to the All-Stars, but priced closer to the moderates.

I don't see what the US Census has to do with this. Common sense says that there are groups larger than 4 that wish to travel together, and clearly, some of them are choosing to stay elsewhere because the options don't exist in their price range at a Disney Resort.

I don't think the world should "revolve around big families" any more than it should revolve around individuals. I think a resort business should try to provide what their guests are asking for. If Disney doesn't do it, someone else will.

edited for typos

[BUZZ'SMOM]

Well said, Ricola. Thanks for explaining the situation a little better. I see that we are not the only families trying to experience a wdw resort. Most of us are on somewhat of a budget, especially those with kids. I think people would choose wdw as their most poplular vacation spot if accomodations at the resorts were more reasonable. :cool:

[disneyag]

Tina26--There are usually lots of codes that apply to the Deluxe resorts. Just keep checking mousesavers.com. The AP could be worth it depending on how long you stay. If you go for 8 days, it's a wash. But, if you go for 5-6 days and save $400 on your hotel room, it's worth it. We got Poly Concierge last Sept for $256 per night (it's usually $400).

I agree that Disney is NOT a cheap vacation, but either are lots of other venues. Try skiing with a family of 4 -- ski passes run more than park tickets and frequently nice hotels are more expensive than Disney's Deluxe resorts. Many "Deluxe" hotels in Hawaii are over $500 per night. I also agree that the perks you get for staying onsite (convenience, no parking, transportation, Mickey soaps, themed rooms and pools, etc) are worth it. I think each family needs to value that for themselves. MANY hotels only allow 4 guests.

[gepetto]

We have 3 children and ended up at the Contemporary for our June trip, but I thought it was very "strange" that none of the budget hotels slept 5 or more.

CR sleeps 5 because it has a daybed. There is no room at the All Stars for a daybed. Also, I'm pretty sure fire laws restrict occupancy based on the square footage of the rooms.

[Tina26]

Wow, I'll have to check into getting an ap. I never even thought about it because I figured it really wouldn't be worth it unless we went more than once a year, but I see what you guys are saying. Going to check it out right now, thanks for the tip!;)

Tina

[WDWguru]

Be careful, Tina! It sort of becomes a catch-22 when you have an AP. :D You'll find excuses to go down more to use it! LOL!

You figure, well, let's just get in ONE more trip before the AP expires. Before you know it you've gone five times in a year!! (Yes this happened to DH and I just a few years ago, and we live in Utah!) But the more you use the AP, the better value it is, so go for it! It also helps when you're a DVC member (which we weren't at the time, but are now). Then you can justify everything because the tickets AND room are "paid for"!

ACK!!

[TerriBelle]

I have to jump in here. We are a family of 5 and I did not chose to have 3 kids. We had twins the second time around! I only wanted 2 kids but guess what... I got three. I get really mad when people say stuff like "You chose to have 3 kids...." Sometimes things happen that are not planned.

[Ricola]

Originally posted by WDWguru
It sort of becomes a catch-22 when you have an AP. :D You'll find excuses to go down more to use it!

LOL! And there's a PROBLEM with that??? :D

[ducklite]

Originally posted by Ricola
I think the original poster was just voicing her frustration at the lack of options available to her family when planning a visit to WDW. I didn't see anywhere that she said she was entitled to have more people stay for the same cost. What I saw was a wish that 5 people could stay for a more reasonable cost (as they can at offsite resorts...)

My point is that she could stay at Coronado Springs or Port Orleans with her family. PO offers the trundle suitable for a younger child, and CS allows the rental of a rollaway.

You are all saying there is no option for a family of five except a deluxe, this is simply NOT the case.

Anne

[Ricola]

I did not say there are no options available, I said there are not enough options available. CSR and POR are two (IMO) great options, but there could be more. During busy times, it can be hard to get into those two resorts, and they are (with the extra person charge) nearly twice the price of the Values.

Aren't the opinions voiced here proof enough that there is a demand for more options?

[WDWguru]

Originally posted by Ricola
... and they are (with the extra person charge) nearly twice the price of the Values.

I think this is why you see lots of families just getting two rooms at a value resort. It makes sense to me - the two bathrooms would be well worth it, imho!

[4firsttimes]

I have 4 kids, and I'm trying to convince myself I'd be delighted to pay rack rate of $405 for a deluxe room at WL in June. I think Disney has plenty of options. I just happen to have 4 kids and happen to want to stay at a nice place. My problem! :) (Same problem I had when we were shopping for a new house recently.)

[MJames41]

There are options out there if you know where to look. We are paying around $100 per night for a Boardwalk villa with a rental for our trip in December. With a code, at one point you could have gotten 2 All Star rooms under $100. We stayed at the Contemporary Wing for $154 (total - including tax) per night last August. And, as previously posted, there is always Port Orleans Riverside. There are alternatives, but sometimes you have to get creative. If you are on a tight budget, I'm sure you are used to that (I remember needing to be creative with necessary grocerys). Just my thoughts.

[DMRick]

... and they are (with the extra person charge) nearly twice the price of the Values.

We are paying for the extra person at POR..but I was told, if it was 5 people, and only two were adults (we are three adults), as long as one was under 10 and could use the trundle, there was no extra charge.
Also, when I asked about mods that could sleep 5, I wasn't given Colorado as a choice. That resort too, has trundle beds?
We too, have been a family of five for years going to Disney. We stayed in our camper at first (although they do have rentals also..but too pricey at the time for us), then moved out of the park to Tropical Palms (rented a cottage), and came back again to Disney with grands. We have stayed at Allstars up til now, when the smallest grand went over the age to allow for 5 people in an Allstar room.
I know the rooms are small, but a cot doesn't take up any more room than a portacrib (and some have cots (yes they have cots at the Allstars) when they have a girl and a boy anyway), and if the fire marshalls allow 5 when one is a baby, I really have to believe Disney is just trying to move you up to a moderate. I don't understand why it can't be your choice to be crowded in a small room..as long as it isn't fire code (which I don't believe it is, because they allow a 5th person in a portacrib). We had no problem fitting in with the five of us..just took shower turns.
All of this aside, we paid attention when we were at Allstars this past two visits this year, and although I'm not saying it's right, or honest (and I have to look my grands in the eye and report to a Higher Person, if I were to lie), I can tell you that there are a whole lot of families of five, staying in the Allstars..even some families of six or more. I talked to several moms at the playground, and they said they just give 4 names when making the ressies. I don't for a second believe that the maids count toothbrushes. I have heard on this board the rumors of such, but not one person has ever actually had it happen to them..or at least hasn't told us so on this board.

[eller]

I depends on how much space you want and how much money you can or choose to spend.

We are a family of five and last October the "baby" turned 3 years old so that bumped us up to five.

It's almost the exact same (during value season) to get two rooms at the AS resorts as it is to go to POR. But don't forget CSR is also a choice. You can pay for a roll a way for $15 a night and they will let you sleep five!

It's just about the same price as AS, so choose wisely. Two rooms a All Stars also means privacy for Mom and Dad and two bath rooms, but there is no slide at the pool and only one restaurant to go to.

Oddly enough, I think we will be staying at CSR rather than AS. We stayed at ASMo in January and we want to stay someplace different our next trip.

Good luck, I know how it feels to have 5.

Lori

5/1997 Off site, 2/2000 Off site, 2/2001 Poly, 10/2001 POFQ, AKL & Magic, 1/2002 ASMo & AKL, 11/2002 CSR & CR

[Debbie]

Well, as a family with 5 children, we have had issues with this as well. We found that splitting the stay between Holiday Inn Family Suites and 2 rooms at Disney works for us. We love the pool, activities, microwave, and fridge (and free breakfasts-imagine feeding 7!) at HIFS, and then the space/2 bathrooms at Disney are fabulous. I think that to offer a range of options for all guests would benefit any business. And that, I believe, is what the original post was about.

Now, if I could just do something about the cost of passes for my family, I'd be a happy camper! Heck, I might even get to Disney within the next 3 years! ;)

[threeboysmom]

Wow! I never knew that Coronado Springs was even an option for our family of 5. That's great since we're not fond of POR (just not our style) at all. It's good to have another option available to pick from :) Has anyone successfully booked CS with a party of 5?

[hockey mom]

When I chose to have 3 kids I took alot of things into consideration. More toys at christmas, another mouth to feed, and another college fund, what I did not account for was a second hotel room. I trave alot with my family for hockey and have never encountered a hotel room that would not accomodate 5. That is until I phoned for a Disney reservation. I find the fire code thing a little much considering that you can go one mile off Disney property and 5 is allowed for the same size room. Or how about 5 is ok in a 314 sq ft room at POR(if you pay for the trundle), but not allowed in a 975 sq ft in a one bedroom at OKW. Whether you have one child or I have 3, if they all can sleep in that other bed why should I have to pay more than you. I can see why the original poster is upset. Having 3 children means I do not have the same options as other families, simply because I decided on one too many kids.

[eller]

I haven't booke CSR, but I did call the other night to make sure. I called the resort directly and was told that the rooms sleep 4, but when I asked about the roll a way, she said that if you *pay* for a roll a way it can sleep 5.

We will see what happens when I call CRO.

We are waiting until AP rates come out for November/December. We have booked with Disney a few times now and this will be the first time I've not make reservations for the least expensive accommodations that would work and then wait for AP rates.

Lori

5/1997 Off site, 2/2000 Off site, 2/2001 Poly, 10/2001 POFQ, AKL & Magic, 1/2002 ASMo & AKL, 11/2002 CSR & CR

[Mis4Mouse]

I understand your frustration - we are a family of 6... 2 adults and four kids, 7 to 17!

In the past we've stayed off site, and hated the shuttles to and from the parks, and the limitations on spontanaity (with four kids, you gotta be flexible!) Then we started staying in the Fort Wilderness Cabins during the value season because the kids love them, they sleep 5/6 pretty comfortably, and and they fit into our budget when we take into consideration that we eat at the cabins most meals saving a ton of money we would be spending on eating out. However this year Mom,(that would be me) has decided that she is NOT cooking on her vacation, and so we have booked two adjoining rooms at ASMovies. The rate for the rooms, with out AAA discount was 138 a night for both rooms, including taxes. That's only 69 bucks a night for each room (incl. taxes) Now that is easily what we'd pay off site for a no frills room, and the 138 is what we'd pay for a decent room with just two queens. So I think we did ok. Try shopping around and checking rates.

From what I understand, Disney has added day beds to many of the room in the deluxe category to sleep five, but as you mentioned, they are rather pricey. However I'll be the first to admit that though I love to save a penny when I can, there is nothing like staying on site.... and the kids agree. We'll often go for a four night park hopper rather than a six just to stay onsite... and we'll cut corners on meals - we'll even wait two or three years in between in order to save enough to stay where we want...so I guess it's just what constitutes a comfortable and fun vacation experience for you.

On the other hand, I'll admit to daydreaming of a time when my sweetie and me can sneak away just the two of us and stay at the Grand Floridian! : )

Just wanted you to know your not alone!

[Deb & Bill]

OKW is not a normal Disney hotel; it's a timeshare. The greatest majority of it is owned by DVC members. We bought there to have the luxury of space. Just because there is a lot of square footage in the accomodations, doesn't mean you can turn it into a dormitory. I may not own an entire building there, but the other owners and I like having a king sized bed to sleep in, a separate living room and other ammenities that you don't have in an average hotel room.

And the timeshare rules state how many people can stay there.

Sorry if you don't like it.

[funhouse8]

BUZZ'SMOM
Hi, We are a family with four kids and all adults in Disney's eyes.
We stayed in the wilderness cabins a few years back and loved being on the property, but it was costly. Everything here was great. We did have a full fridge so we were able to save some money on food & drinks. We froze water bottles at night to bring into the parks. The maid even put your dishes into the dish washer so everything was clean when you crawl back to your cabin at night. I think we spent a little over $200. a night for this. Well, my last trip I was trying to cut costs so we stayed at the HIFS with a coupon-pay for one night get one night free. how could I say no we saved $800. We really wanted to stay on site but never once were we disappointed. We rented a car and found it faster to enter into the parks from the holiday inn then from the campground. It is a 1/4 of a mile up the road. The breakfast was great! We were able to freeze water bottles here too being we had a small kitchen area. If you choose the HIFS I don't think you will be disappointed either. Any questions feel free to E-mail me. I'll be happy to help.

[ducklite]

Originally posted by hockey mom
Whether you have one child or I have 3, if they all can sleep in that other bed why should I have to pay more than you. I can see why the original poster is upset. Having 3 children means I do not have the same options as other families, simply because I decided on one too many kids.

Because they are taking up space on the Disney busses, using towels, using the pools, using water, toilet paper and anything else you can use.

Like you said, you decided. Your choice. If you get to bring in an extra body for free, then I should get a rebate because I've only got one kid, right?

Anne

[Prince John]

I've been watching this post for several days and here is what I see: (Just my opinion)
1. ducklite needs to stick to the debate board - your tone is too much for most people on these boards
2. I have no nice response to deb & bill's remark about the dormitory, so I'll refrain entirely
3. Disney wants you to buy 2 rooms or a suite if you have 3 kids(no surprise here - it is, after all, a business)
4. Disney doesn't spend much effort checking out the number of kids in your room. No-one goes around counting toothbrushes.

Like it or not, until my 3rd child (infant) is older, Disney will not know about him. They didn't in September, and they won't next February. I'm sure this will outrage those people on these boards who lay in their self-rightous grass and wait for an opportunity to pounce on a moral issue, but that's just how it is.

Remember why we are all here - to find ways to have more fun at WDW and to help others do the same.

[Mis4Mouse]

I have been to lots of Disney Discussion Boards, and I have to tell you that the ones here seem to have a very argumentative tone to them!

Anne has a very valid point... as do many of you here. However the way that everyone here shares their opinion is not quite as friendly as I expected.

The only reason I joined here to begin with is because the topic seemed relatively tame and I thought maybe it would be a nice place for those of us with more kids than most to commiserate a little. I didn't feel like I was complaining or griping - just expressing how having more kids makes it all that much more difficult to afford Disney.

I hardly expected the defensive tone of the posts from people like Anne and others here, on both sides of the issue.

It has all left a very bad taste in my mouth. With so much more to get our panties in a twist about, why waste energy here?

[Mis4Mouse]

Hear Hear Prince John!

[DawnCt]

Prince John, as another frequent visitor who visits often, I agree. I started going to WDW when we only had two kids, of course my mother would come along so we started with four plus a baby. We were quite happy with the deluxe resorts which always accommodated five. When I had my forth child, I too vowed that Disney wouldn't know when he turned three either. He recently celebrated the 11th aniversary of his third birthday. He didn't get a birthday card from Disney so I guess it is still my business. Everyone else...flame away. I have been flamed to the max on this subject and I don't care! Furthermore, I haven't found one manager of any of the resorts that cares either.

[hockey mom]

Deb and bill, I only used OKW as a reference to the size of rooms and fire codes.

Ducklite- I think you missed my point altogether. I don't want my child to get in for free, I will buy a ticket. I don't want my 3rd child to eat for free, I will buy a meal. What I don't want to do is buy a second hotel room just because I have one too many kids. If both our families can fit comfortably in one room what should it matter how many kids you have or I have.

Prince John-Thank-you.

[Prince John]

Dawn,Ct

It's nice to know I'm not the only one who feels this way. We too visit WDW with my wife's mother (I'm not going to be out-numbered) and we pay extra for the extra adult in the room. But when it comes to the kids, I just have a different attitude. For those people who say it's not comfortable, I say - not true. My wife and I are comfortable in one bed, my mother in law sleeps in the other bed with our two sons (4 & 6) just like she does when they spend the night at her house, and our baby sleeps in his pack-n-play. How is this uncomfortable? How is this a fire-hazard, how is this a dormitory? How is this anyone else's business?
We were very skeptical last Sept when we tried this at the All-Stars because we thought the rooms may just be too small. Not a problem at all - we never tripped over each other, we never had a shower problem, or a sink problem. We are on vacation at WDW!!!
So flame away, but don't use old, worn out excuses like the fact that we use more:
1. water (my boys bathe together),
2. towels (we never ask for extras),
3. toilet paper (the boys use wipes),
4. bus space (we drive to the parks),
5. pool space (my boys are small - should large people be charged extra for "increased pool space"?)
By the way - I hope everyone senses my joking sarcasm - I just love this type of discussion. I guess that's why I'm doing this instead of the work piled up on me desk.

[Prince John]

Can someone please explain the term free to ducklite? I'm at a temporary loss for sarcastic humor at the moment.

Ducklite - I hope you know I'm just goofing around. A few years ago, I made an attempt at humor towards the wrong person on these boards and I had to change my user name to stop the harassment from him. Since I'm sort of fond of the whole "Prince John" thing, just take what I say in stride.

[gepetto]

Why is everyone jumping on Ann here? She's expressing her frustration with people breaking the room occupancy rules in the same tone that everyone else is expressing their frustration that Disney limits occupancy at all.

"How is this uncomfortable?" Prince John, If you are comfortable putting 6 into an All Stars room and sleeping 3 to a bed and sharing 1 bathroom then more power to you. It's your vacation.:)

[MELSMICE]

Having 3 kids does mean you have 1 too many - it means you have one more child to enjoy Disney with. I also was expecting one more & was blessed with twins. Does it cost me more to go to Disney, yes, it does, but I wouldn't trade it for the world. It also costs me more to go to dinner at home, more for clothes, groceries, etc., etc., etc.

We have found accommodations on & off-site that were suitable for us. The Wilderness Cabins are our favorite. Pricey, yes, but we saved on meals out by eating in the cabin. The Holiday Inn Family Suites are a great place to stay. Free breakfast (a full breakfast, not continental). Free lunch & dinner for the kids also with paying adults. How can you go wrong. Great pools & activities.

Having a great vacation costs money, no matter how many children you have. Spend the money now - one day they'll want to stay home & not go with you. Then you won't have to worry about that "extra kid" & you can go to a place that accommodates 4!! You won't have to worry about the cost of accommodations, you'll just worry about the "extra" that is at home!!!

[DMRick]

As long as you don't knock on my door and ask to borrow my towels for the extra child, I sure don't care how many you put in a room <g>. Although I switched to POR this upcoming trip, because there are now five of us, I too, belive that Disney should allow 5 in the rooms at AllStar. I have stayed there enough, that I just don't buy that there is enough room if the child is under 3, and the portacrib, but not if they are four years old. It should be up to the people how crowded they want to be.This is sort of like the refillable mug issue (hey, lets get this thread even hotter!). The "real" rules are, that you are suppose to buy new each trip. The sign in the all of the Allstars says it (good for the length of your trip, and we all justify bringing them back on all our trips), if you ask Disney on line, they say good for the length of your trip..but the managers of the foodcourts and the cashiers couldn't care less..they come right out and tell you to bring 'em on back on your next trip. I believe it's the same thing..the hotel managers couldn't care less..they let people fill up their thermos's (I think we need a thread on the most unusual item you have seen being refilled!), and never say a word...and they let larger families stay in rooms and never say a word (I've only ever heard about someone who knew about the cousin of a friend's sister's brother in law that this has happened too..never direct). If you bring back your mugs, you aren't any different from the person with an extra kid in their room...if you really want to get down and dirty. And I have to admit..I bring back my mugs! So, hey..why the heck am I staying in POR and paying the extra adult charge again?
OK, flame away, I have my protective gear on!

[ducklite]

Originally posted by gepetto
Why is everyone jumping on Ann here? She's expressing her frustration with people breaking the room occupancy rules in the same tone that everyone else is expressing their frustration that Disney limits occupancy at all.

What I am frustrated about is that people think that either because they have more kids they should be entitled to special treatment (ie Disney should build special rooms at special prices just for them), and people who say that Disney doesn't offer anything affordable for a family of five. There is also debate that they should be able to put their family of five into one room and not pay anything more for it. I conversely argue that if that is the case, I should get a rebate as my family is only three.

I have pointed out that two of the moderates offer accomodations for a family of five, that with discounts you can often get two rooms at the All Stars for a very moderate price, that the FW Homes and DI both offer moderate prices for rooms that accomodate five. There are options, and there is no reason for Disney to build additional rooms to accomodate larger families when the rooms that already exist aren't being fully utilized.

Anne

[addicted_to_WDW]

My family of 3 stopped staying at the All Stars when DS was 5 because those rooms are incredibly small. Putting occupancy issues aside, I can't imagine that 4 people (let alone more) would be happy in such a tiny room. They have 2 double beds and not enough floor space for sleeping bags for anyone other than a toddler.

Disney has plenty of options for people as has been pointed out. If you aren't happy with those options, go offsite.

[DMRick]

What I am frustrated about is that people think that either because they have more kids they should be entitled to special treatment (ie Disney should build special rooms at special prices just for them),

Can you point me to the post where that was said? I missed it. I thought peopel were saying, that just like in "outside" hotel rooms, where families of 5 can stay in one room, people are questioning why, if they don't mind being a little crowded, Disney won't let them stay five in an Allstars room (not build a new set of bigger rooms..they are OK with the size of the Allstars). Put it back in perspective..don't change what the concern was..no one said they were entitled to more. Some may not belive the Allstars rooms are big enough for 5..and that is a real choice..others are just saying, that Disney says it's OK with a family of five, as long as one is in a portacrib..which takes up even more room, than three small kids sleeping together in a double sized bed. If the reason isn't because of firecodes (and again, if 5 is OK if one is a baby, I don't think it is), why not let the family make that decision. The poster who suggested a rebate, since she only has one child, is certainly not seeing the point. A larger family IS already spending more..more on food, more on tickets and other entertainment (and they weren't complaining about that). The real question (IMO) is why "outside" rooms allow 5, why some mods allow 5 (and more water and towels being used), but not the Allstars..who do allow 5 if one is under 3.

[ducklite]

Originally posted by DMRick


Can you point me to the post where that was said? <snip>(not build a new set of bigger rooms..they are OK with the size of the Allstars).

Yes, Ricola asked for minisuites to be built at a moderate resort price towards the start of this thread. So Ricola WAS asking for larger rooms at a lower price in order to accomodate families that chose to have more kids. Several others agreed.

The poster who suggested a rebate, since she only has one child, is certainly not seeing the point. A larger family IS already spending more..more on food, more on tickets and other entertainment (and they weren't complaining about that).

Actually, I doubt that this is true. We generally spend $150 or more per day on food, and $300+ per trip on incidental entertainment such as sports, spa treatments and such. Chances are that this puts us right in line spenditure wise with a family of five. We also go 2-4 times a year, and never spend less than five days at a time.

The real question (IMO) is why "outside" rooms allow 5, why some mods allow 5 (and more water and towels being used), but not the Allstars..who do allow 5 if one is under 3.

The All Stars are value resorts. The moderates are moderates. If you put five in a moderate you'll be charged extra for the fifth person (unless it's a baby). They have built and furnished the rooms in a way taht a fifth person can fit. It is being implied that ALL off property rooms will sleep five. This is simply not the case. Some do. Just like some WDW Resorts do. But many don't.

Anne

[Prince John]

Not that anyone may crae, but this thread is getting less fun by the minute. I read every new post for an opportunity to put in a few more "two cents", but I can't. Somebody please say something controversial or really stupid so that I can satisfy my urge to respond. Hee hee.

[gepetto]

Somebody please say something controversial or really stupid so that I can satisfy my urge to respond. Hee hee.

hmmmm


controversial....or stupid. Or BOTH!


I can make something up. We just want you to be happy. :)


Picture it....years from now....Prince John says to his 27 year old son..."ok son, if anyone asks you're 2. You're still 2. You're just big for your age".


:) :) :)

[wdisneyaholic]

What is with all this attitude from this thread? I am 100% behind Prince John!

Ducklite, it is not just people that have more than 1 or 2 kids, maybe the kid wants to take a friend. What is with all the attitude? Are you loosing out on something because families of 5 are traveling to Disney?

I thought that the idea of these boards was to get information and have fun reading about everyone's favorite place. It just goes back to the "you can't say anything negative about Disney" here or you will get slammed for it.

Hey, I have a family of 5 and I take my own towels, anybody need an extra?

[Grumpygal]

Prince John this may not be controversial or stupid but I offer something only slightly off topic as food for thought.

The cost of a room (whether a WDW property or not) is based on double occupancy and for each additional adult there usually is a nominal charge. Based on this, the cost for each consecutive adult is a little more. Why then, is it more expensive for one person alone to stay in a room than 2 people?:(

That is something I've always found to be the case. When you take the cost of a room and divide it out among the number of people staying there its obvious that the more people you have the cheaper its is. Why is that?:confused:

Here's the somewhat controversial piece for you: if you do the math, it very well may be cheaper per person to get 2 rooms for 5 people than it is for 1 person to stay in 1 room.

As I said just some food for thought.:rolleyes:

[DawnCt]

Okay Prince John, I will try to comply. If you have one person over the limit, be prepared for midnight fire drills and room checks. You may think that is a tv in the cabinet, but it is really a room camera designed to note if an extra person enters the room without a room key in their own name. Don't try to save the fifth towel in the bathroom; when you hang it up on the towel rack, the rack will collapse, the water sprinkler will come on in the room, red lights will flash and a loud siren will sound. You will be mortified because other guests on your floor will "know" that you broke the room limit. Worst yet, a paddy wagon will pull up in front of the lobby and you will be carted away in your night clothes to (dare I say it) Motel 6!! You may think Disney won't know if you have length of stay passes for 6 people but only five are registered to the room. They WILL KNOW! When you enter the room, you are desensitized. This allows you to pass through any gate or turnstyle without notice. If, however, you aren't registered, you are not automatically desensitized. Again, bells and whistles will go off. The villians of WDW are doing double duty and you can expect Captain Hook to snatch your youngest child up and send her to the crocodiles. In spite of all this, enjoy your next vacation and sleep in shifts.

[Mattsmom]

We are a family of five and have been for alot of years. Youngest DS is 11. Even if Disney allowed five at a value resort we wouldn't stay there, it's not for us. (I know that's another debate.):D We prefer deluxe resorts, but we have stayed at POR. So this discussion is not a problem for us.

What I would like to point out though is for the last 11 yrs. we have traveled with the kids to alot of different places. With very few exceptions the hotels/motels that we have stayed at all would provide a roll away bed for a fifth person. Some charged a fee, some didn't. From my experience this seems to be the normal business practice in most lodging chains. I think it comes as a surprise to people who are used to this practice to learn what Disney's policy is.

I also agree with Ricola, I believe Disney is missing a segment of the market. Pop Century is sitting complete but not opened. MAYBE if they were to open it and allow five to a room they could filled it?

[DMRick]

Hey, I have a family of 5 and I take my own towels, anybody need an extra?

Hey, the towell part was a joke..I'd share towels if your family was in need! But, hey, be sure and give it back, so that if the maid counts the towels, they won't know you have extra people in your room.

Ok, in the beginning one person did make a suggestion about suites..you were right about that..although that doesnt' have to pertain just to people with more kids..could pertain if I wanted to bring my elderly parents as well:
:
Why not offer a resort with inexpensive suites, or, a simpler solution (which wouldn't require redesigning a resort and which could utilize the existing ones), a discount when booking more than one room?

I can't see that happening (building more), since Disney can't fill what they have, but the discount when booking more than one room, isn't so out of line.

What I keep hearing, is that some people on this board wouldn't want to sleep five in an Allstars (some don't even want to sleep 3!). Generally, those of us with larger families, don't mind the "closeness", so obviously, if you minded, you wouldn't do it..but I still say the option should be there...like it is in most all of hte other hotels we have stayed at.

Prince John..my throwing in the people who bring their mugs back every year, wasn't controveral enough for you? Heck, I even own one mug per child..we don't even share, so I have to cart them all back when we come to Dis (last trip there, someone was filling a really big thermos..like one of the BIG yellow McDonald ones they give you for sports activites..they had to wait while the lemonade was refilled..there wasn't enough in the spigot)!

[gepetto]

Here's the somewhat controversial piece for you: if you do the math, it very well may be cheaper per person to get 2 rooms for 5 people than it is for 1 person to stay in 1 room.




:confused: I don't understand where you're getting this. I book a hotel room it costs the same whether I'm alone or with 1 adult and 2 children under 18.

[Christi 2002]

Like I said earlier on this thread I chose to have 3 children, and don't expect anybody to "give" me anything for it. Nor do I want them to. But the fact is what you are renting is a room, how ever many children you have, and how uncomfortable you choose to be. That room is the same size. No one gets "credits" for having one child and no one should pay more for that hotel room when 3 small children can easily sleep in one bed. Of course you have to buy more meals, tickets etc. We are staying in a deluxe with a daybed, but that is our choice too. It is sad that this thread started out as a person asking others with more than 2 children what they thought about this disney hotel option... into finger pointing. I thought this was supposed to be an open discussion, if you read a question and it doesn't apply to you (because you don't have more than 2 children) resist the urge - move on. Let those who want to talk openly about an issue do so without being made to feel awfully for asking the question to begin with.
Thank you
Christi

[landog]

I have a family of six!

My solution: Stay at Port Orleans Riverside and get 2 rooms with a "trundle bed."

Too easy?

[ncg30]

Originally posted by threeboysmom
Wow! I never knew that Coronado Springs was even an option for our family of 5. That's great since we're not fond of POR (just not our style) at all. It's good to have another option available to pick from :) Has anyone successfully booked CS with a party of 5?

I just successfully booked CS today for 5 for $114 per night. They've got a special running. Dolphin and Swan are going for $129 per night.

[ncg30]

Originally posted by Christi 2002
Like I said earlier on this thread I chose to have 3 children, and don't expect anybody to "give" me anything for it. Nor do I want them to. But the fact is what you are renting is a room, how ever many children you have, and how uncomfortable you choose to be. That room is the same size. No one gets "credits" for having one child and no one should pay more for that hotel room when 3 small children can easily sleep in one bed. Of course you have to buy more meals, tickets etc. We are staying in a deluxe with a daybed, but that is our choice too. It is sad that this thread started out as a person asking others with more than 2 children what they thought about this disney hotel option... into finger pointing. I thought this was supposed to be an open discussion, if you read a question and it doesn't apply to you (because you don't have more than 2 children) resist the urge - move on. Let those who want to talk openly about an issue do so without being made to feel awfully for asking the question to begin with.
Thank you
Christi


I couldn't agree more Christi!! Kudo's for you.

[Debbie]

Thankfully, most of us seem thrilled with our choice of number of children- not too many, not too few. :) It's the restrictive nature of Disney that seems to separate us. Well, for those of us with the one (or more) too many.

Christi,

It is sad that this thread started out as a person asking others with more than 2 children what they thought about this disney hotel option... into finger pointing. I thought this was supposed to be an open discussion, if you read a question and it doesn't apply to you (because you don't have more than 2 children) resist the urge - move on. Let those who want to talk openly about an issue do so without being made to feel awfully for asking the question to begin with.

What you said! :D

For Prince John: Maybe Disney really is just for families with 1 or 2 or children. They must be pretty upset with me and my 5! :p

[DMRick]

I just successfully booked CS today for 5 for $114 per night.

Is that with or without tax, and with or without an extra person charge, if you don't mind my asking?
We're paying base rate of $109, plus extra person charge of $15 a night (3 adults) at POR..before taxes. That's starting May 8th.

[smythe]

I am so bummed. I had asked if CS could accomadate 5 people when I booked our vacation last month. I was told they did not! Maybe they ran out of roll aways or something (we are going over Easter) So we are staying at POR again...I am a little disappointed because been there, done that. So we decided to split our time between POR and YC.
I do find it frustrating that Disney will not roll a cot in other moderate hotels. It really does limit us to the same on site resort in this price range. We just happened to get a great deal for the YC, and could not pass up the opportunity.
Now , talk about crowded, we took a cruise last year with Celebrity...they rolled a cot in every night for the 5th person! It was crowded, but who cares...you're rarely in the room anyway! I say here-here for togetherness...and being the first one to wake up in the AM and use the bathroom!!! Life is GRAND!:bounce:

[Prince John]

I'm with you Smythe. I love how people can say that staying in a room with 3 kids and 3 adults is too crowded all the while visiting WDW in June with 90000 of their closest friends. WDW is not a quiet vacation on some secluded beach, it is an adventure. It's about fun, but it's also about tolerance and getting along with other people so that everyone can enjoy their time. Trust me, when we want a quiet vacation, we head to our beach house on the Fla panhandle. There, we have 6 bedrooms - I can wake up at noon if I like. But WDW is entirely different for us. I know I'm off-thread, but we like the closeness of our WDW trips.

[Desperado]

Grab an air mattress for the floor and you'll be fine with 5.

[tripben]

I just could not resist this. There are many people "out there" that have one or no children and don't have much tolerance for those who have more. I encounter this all the time, and I respect their opinions, and don't really care if they don't agree with me or my lifestyle.

I have loved reading these boards for months now, and I have learned a great deal about Disney and about other people. I think I have read at least a half dozen threads that have started out similar to this one and have ended up just like this one. It is unfortunate that people cannot recognize that we all all different and in the grand scheme of things what works for one may not work for all. What is important to one is not to another. Even though I personally don't care if someone doesn't agree with me, or calls my family a "brood" it is in very bad taste for someone to comment negitively about another person's situation.

The harsh and negative statements made should be ignored because the individuals making the comments are not going to change their opinion for anyone.

I have many children, step children, neices, cousins, and sometimes I feel like the old woman in the shoe. I would have ten kids if I knew my body wouldn't fall apart doing so. I agree that it would be nice to be able to come to a public forum and make an open ended comment and hope that someone will come up with some great suggestions, and many have. But there will always be those who cannot resist the urge to make a comment or two that may offend someone.

I feel that this issue will be a hotbed for many for many reasons, and it should be allowed to be explored on the debate board for those who choose to read it.

And for those of you that have a ton of children, may God bless you and yours. For those who have none, may God bless you as well.

Thanks for listening,

Sam

[vellamint]

to have amount of children I do.....I was BLESSED with unexpected twins! And as for the fire codes issues and all that.....why is it that the Carribean Beach with 340 square feet only accommodate 4 while the Port Orleans Riverside with 315 square feet will accommodate 5 with the trundles? I personally think it all boils down to MONEY MONEY MONEY.

[Prince John]

aaahhhhh, the thread that never ends.

This thread has become a part of my work day for the past few days. I check every little while to see if someone has made a controversial or stupid comment on family size. I guess all the moral pouncers are too busy today. I just love defending the right to overpopulate.

[WDWguru]

Originally posted by Prince John
I just love defending the right to overpopulate.


Uh oh, now you've done it! :D

You know, the way I figure it, as a childfree person I'm balancing out somebody who's got four kids, so what's the harm? It's never bothered me in the least what other people choose to do. My philosophy is, you respect my choices and I'll respect yours.

I think sometimes when arguments get emotional people forget the ol' golden rule! And it's awfully easy to go off on someone from a keyboard when you don't have to face them. I think lots of folks are much braver (or ruder?) online than they would normally be.

[Prince John]

WDWguru,

Please believe me when I say that I'm not at all serious about this debate. I have 3 kids because that's what we wanted. I am only joking about the overpopulation thing (overpopulation is having babies that you can't afford, and that the world can't support, but that's for an entirely different thread). If you read my posts, you'll see that I make it a habit to find a controversial post and make repeated attempts to soften the tone by injecting my sarcastic humor. Believe me when I say that my intention as ALWAYS to remind people that these boards are for fun and to make WDW more enjoyable. If I ever step on a toe, it is because I am clumsy, not mean or rude. If I ever stop having fun on these boards, I will leave - I hope that never happens, this is too fun.


Hee hee

[WDWguru]

I completely agree, Prince John! I hope you didn't take my post the wrong way. I meant it in a light tone. And I am with you - the minute it stops being fun, I'm outta here!

[Prince John]

aaahhh, I love it when we all get along. not as funny, but peaceful. I guess I'm going to have to go in search of another nice-thread-gone-bad. This one looks under control.

[DawnCt]

Frankly, I am really surprised at the tone of this thread. I am used to be bashed much more aggressively. Maybe I have been given up on. After going to WDW for over 20 years, filling up the room, I guess the conclusion is; I can't be rehabilitated.

[tripben]

Prince John,

You had to go and throw that remark in about being able to "afford" your children didn't you?

Now you will definately get some response from the controversial police!

Everytime I think I have given my kids everything I could possibly think of they hit me with a comment like this:

Just having come off our sixth trip to WDW in the past two years, my seven year old told me; "now that we finally did the Animal Kingdom can we go on vacation now."

I have just realized I will never be able to afford my children. The ungrateful heathens will be fed and clothed, and the next WDW trip is for the big kids, me and DH.

Sam

[DancingBear]

Wow, I'm amazed at what an active thread this is--I can't resist putting in my two cents!

I don't care much about how many children anyone has, etc., but two comments from the original poster:

1--"How unfair is this?"

I don't really see this as a fairness issue. Disney sets its policies, and you can choose to vacation there or not. Whether it's about trying to get you to move up to a moderate or deluxe, or to get two rooms, or about planning for the use of amenities like the pool and food court and transportation, etc., or whatever, it's just a business decision, not a value judgment.

Nothing wrong with letting Disney know that they are missing out on your business because they don't offer enough alternatives for you---they can plug that in to their business decision-making process.

I see plenty of these things when I make reservations for travelling. I was just pricing out an en route hotel for our December WDW trip, and the special Expedia rate I was looking at said the room was only for two, contact the hotel, etc.

2--"how do families continue to go on vacation having to pay outrageous rates like the Poly, Wilderness, etc?"

A lot of discounts have been offered on these resorts in the offseason periods. As someone posted above, while it is true that these hotels aren't cheap, they aren't really much different from other luxury hotels in resort destinations (during whatever high season is a those locations). Again, I don't think they're outrageous--just priced according to the supply and demand.

[Liz]

This thread has been interesting and enlightening. Tripben, I agree with your comments very much.

PrinceJohn, have you visited the Community board? I think you'd find some threads to your liking very much over there! Its a fun place too!

[Prince John]

Thanks for the tip Liz,

By the way, did I mention that I have a joke about organ donation? I'm not sure it would be appropriate on these boards - it is better suited to a locker room conversation...
hee hee

[eller]

I want to hear it!

Lori

5/1997 Off site, 2/2000 Off site, 2/2001 Poly, 10/2001 POFQ, AKL & Magic, 1/2002 ASMo & AKL, 12/2002 CSR & CR

[Liz]

Umm, I'm thinking I don't wanna hear it. :rolleyes:

[Gabrielle]

Prince John,

You're a breath of fresh air!

:)

[LoriZH]

Buzzsmom, I agree with you, it seems as though they don't have enough value options (or any value options) for people with more than 2 children or people that CHOOSE to take an extra person along to stay in one room, that does seem a bit unfair. They do however have the moderates and although it costs a bit more, the rooms are bigger and you would be more comfortable anyway. I hear Port Orleans Riverside is very nice and you can get the discount codes from this site!

As for all the rude comments you received from some of these people, sorry about that, I noticed you were new here too, shame on them. I personally would rather have 10 kids, love em, and be considered white trash by these people than to live in thier shoes with their attitudes for one second.

I too, did not CHOOSE to have more than two children, I had twins the second time around and wouldn't change it for the world.

Have fun on your trip and believe me, don't be affraid to post your questions or comments on this board, for every ignorant poster that feels it's their right to put you down or insult you, there are 10 of us who will give you the information you are looking for.

[sjjdbatch]

If you book a more expensive room on property make sure you have a kittchenette. this may compensate for added room expense by saving on meals. this is what we did with party of 5, tight budget, and 2 very active boys whom I would not want to eat out with 3x's a day!

[wdisneyaholic]

Here is an interesting thing, I stayed at the Hampton Inn this weekend with my 3 children and my husband. There were 5 of us in a standard room with 2 double beds. I was never even asked how many were staying in the room. I could have have 10 people in there and they would not have know. When I made the reservations I was never asked how many people etc. I also truly beleieve that with the Disney hotels it basically boils dow to a money thing. I can't understand why you can have a rollaway in POR and not in CB. I personally would never want to stay in the Allstars, whether they let 5 in a room or not. I just don't like only having one moderate option. It is either POR or the deluxes.

There are alot more options for a family of 5 off property than on. Maybe in the future Disney will recognize this and do something about it. I love Disney and enjoy going there but my last experience on site was less than pleasing. I think I will take my chances off site now.