FAQ about the Hotel Express Pass - AKA FOTL

[goofy!]

Recently we have had many questions about how the FOTL or Hotel Express pass works. I thought I would start a FAQ thread about the hotel express pass. Experts - Please feel free to post other hints and tips here and I will add them to the first post. Or, if you have a question that has not been answered, just ask. One of us will try to answer and then I will add the question and answer to the first post.

So, let's get started.

What is the Hotel Express Pass perk?

This is a perk that allows onsite guests staying at the Royal Pacific, the Hard Rock Hotel and the Portofino Bay hotel to access the express line unlimited times during their length of stay in the hotel.

Is it really FOTL or Front Of The Line?

No. On these boards, we use the acronym FOTL to differentiate the hotel perk from the Express Pass that you can buy. While we call it FOTL, you might still have to stand in a short line. Express will allow you to go through the express queue rather than the stand-by queue, not actually going to front of the line of a ride. Depending on the time of year and the crowds, the line could be non-existent (more often than not), or you could have a 20 minute wait (not that common). What is true is that it is always significantly shorter than the stand-by line.

For those of you who are Disney regulars, it is basically an unlimited Fast Pass with no time and access restrictions.

So, what is the difference between the Express Pass you buy and the Hotel FOTL?

There is no difference in the line you enter. Both the paid for Express Pass and the Hotel Express Pass (aka FOTL) puts you in the same express line. The big difference is that the the paid for Express Pass only allows you one (1) express entrance per ride, while the FOTL allows you unlimited Express access to the line from the minute you check in to parks closing of the day you check out.

For example, say you just rode Men In Black and you decided you wanted to ride it again to improve your score. If you had the onsite FOTL perk, you could get off and go right back into the express line as many times as you wanted. If you had the purchased Express pass, you would have already used your once-per-ride Express access to the ride on the one you just got off of, so you would now need to re-ride through the regular stand-by line for the rest of the day.

Additionally, the hotel perk is good from the minute you check in to close of the parks of the day you check out. The express pass is only good for the day you purchased it for. It is date specific and expires at park closing whether you have used all your passes for all the rides or not.

What kind of ticket do I need to purchase to get FOTL?

Your hotel Express pass is not tied to any kind of parks admission ticket. It is tied to your hotel room key. So, you do not need to buy any kind of special ticket to get the FOTL perks. As long as you are staying onsite, you get FOTL.

How does the hotel room key work? How do we share the key if we need to split our group up?

Unlike most hotels that only give you 1 or 2 keys for your room, the Universal hotels will issue a room key to each person registered in the room. So, everybody, including children, will get a key.

The keys are plastic and the size of a credit card. They look like this:
http://photopost.wdwinfo.com/data/747/12242portofino_card_5.jpg

This is a Portofino Key, but the HRH and RPR keys will look similar, just different colors and logos.

Notice the first thing on the key is your dates of stay. This is what the Express Line Team Member will be checking when you ask to enter the express line. The Team Member will do a quick count to make sure everybody in your party has an express key and he will glance at the end date to make sure you are still an on-site guest.

Where this key says "Parlor", the regular keys will have your name imprinted on it. Again, each person has their own key with their own name on it, so it is easy to split up and go to different rides.

The 'C' on this card indicates it is a child's card. If you are an adult, it will have an 'A' in this spot.

How many keys can I get per stay?

The onsite hotels have a maximum limit of 5 people per room. So, the maximum number of keys you can get are 5. Each guest has to be registered to the room to get their key.

Uncle Bill is coming to visit us for the day. How can I get him a room key?

The only way to get Uncle Bill a room key is to add him to the reservation. If you only have 4 people in your room, this is not a problem - just add his name to the reservation.

But be forewarned that there is an additional charge for more than 2 adults in a room. So adding an adult guest to your reservation may incur the $25.00 per night extra adult charge. If it is only for a couple of days, this may still be cheaper than buying an express pass. And the added bonus is that Uncle Bill will have unlimited access for the days he is on the reservation rather than the 1 time per ride from the purchased Express Plus pass.

Check-in is not until 4 PM. Can I check in earlier to get my room keys?

Absolutely! You can check-in early before the parks open or anytime that is convenient for you. You will get your room keys immediately, they just will not be activated until your room is ready. NOTE: The earliest that check-in is available is 6am.

You can leave your luggage with the bell hop and head to the parks. If you have left a cell phone number with the front desk, they will call you when your room is available and give you your room number. You do not need to stop at the front desk again. You can go directly to your room where you call the bell hop to bring your luggage up.

Check-out is at 11 AM. Can I use my room keys for the rest of the day?

Yes. You check-out of your room using any of the methods offered. You can leave your car in the parking lot and your luggage with the bell hop. You keep your room keys. Since it has your check-out date imprinted on them, you can use your rooms keys until the park closes that day. The only thing that would change is that all room charging privileges would be deactivated when you check-out.

Upon return to the hotel, if you are a LoewsFirst member (free sign-up at www.loews-first.com), you can use the gym facilities to freshen up or change. The gyms are pretty well stocked with showers, shampoos, etc. You then just gather your luggage, load your transportation and head on out. No need to turn the room keys in as they will no longer be valid.

What rides does FOTL work on?

All of them except for Pteranodon Flyers.

Does it work for shows?
Yes.

Does it work for restaurants?
Yes it does. When you give your name to the host/hostess, make sure you also show them your room key. Most of the time, it will place you at the top of the list for next available table.

Some restaurants do have restrictions, such as Margartaville, where you cannot use it for parties of 7 or more.

But most of the time, it will cut your wait time significantly for a table. Yet another reason not to have to make all those ADR's ahead of time!

If I stay for one night, do I get 2 days of FOTL?

Yes. Your hotel key is good for the day you check in and the day you check out.

For example, you are checking in on Friday. You check in at 8 AM even though your room is not ready yet. You get your room keys, give your luggage to the bell hop and you head out to the boats to go to the parks. You have a full day of FOTL access for that day. The next day, Saturday, you check out. Again, you give your bags to the bell hop and you head out to the parks. You may use your room keys until the parks close that day. When you are done, you go back to the hotel, gather your luggage from the bell hop and be on your way.

[ScottyGams]

wow, i know this thread was made for me!

in my defence, i did read pages of posts before asking questions!

thank you for this info source!

[goofy!]

wow, i know this thread was made for me!

in my defence, i did read pages of posts before asking questions!

thank you for this info source!

No, absolutely not. I have been thinking about putting this together for a couple of weeks now. I have noticed that on both Universal boards that there have been many questions regarding the difference between the purchased express pass and the hotel express. Most of the questions I took directly out of recent posts.

And hopefully the purpose of this would be to not have somebody read pages of posts to find out the answers :goodvibes

Please keep asking!!!

[Hedy]

As a FOTL newbie-thank you!

[vellamint]

Thank you so much....what a nice thing for you to do...:thumbsup2

[dlbbwu]

Excellent post, goofy! Even though we have been to Universal several times, there was info that I was unaware of!

Thanks again!

:goodvibes

[macraven]

goofy, you will need to bump this thread daily so it won't get lost in the pages.
or you could ask the mods for a sticky.

even with the stickies, we still get a lot of repeat questions in the forums.

[phamton]

I'll sticky this. Thanks!

[Motherfletcher]

Check-in is not until 4 PM. Can I check in earlier to get my room keys?

Absolutely! You can check-in early before the parks open or anytime that is convenient for you. You will get your room keys immediately, they just will not be activated until your room is ready.


Another great goofy! thread. I kind of put the early check in to the test for the grand opening of the Simpsons Ride. We signed up to be in the live audience for the Today Show and received an email telling us to be at the parking garage at 5:45 a.m. The grand opening celebration was to be at 10:30 a.m. and I knew that once we got out after the opening ride that the park would be crowded so I thought I'd stop by PBH on the way to the garage to pick up our "magic" keys. I found out that you can't get the keys until 6 a.m. so I had to wait in the lobby until someone came to the front desk at 6. By the way, our room was ready (activated) at 6 in the morning.

[goofy!]

Another great goofy! thread. I kind of put the early check in to the test for the grand opening of the Simpsons Ride. We signed up to be in the live audience for the Today Show and received an email telling us to be at the parking garage at 5:45 a.m. The grand opening celebration was to be at 10:30 a.m. and I knew that once we got out after the opening ride that the park would be crowded so I thought I'd stop by PBH on the way to the garage to pick up our "magic" keys. I found out that you can't get the keys until 6 a.m. so I had to wait in the lobby until someone came to the front desk at 6. By the way, our room was ready (activated) at 6 in the morning.

Thanks MotherFletcher for testing!

I will add it to the info.

[goofy!]

I'll sticky this. Thanks!

Thanks Phamton!!!!!! :cool1:

[cbdmhgp]

I'm surprised that there is even FOTL for shows. We have never had to use it, but if we realy wanted to see a show then i guess i would. Good Thread Goofy!

[macraven]

I'm surprised that there is even FOTL for shows. We have never had to use it, but if we realy wanted to see a show then i guess i would. Good Thread Goofy!

the better seats are available when you use the express lane.

horror picture show, get in the front before others are let in.

don't miss it, great show.....


and if you have littles, do animal planet and sit up front so the kids can see better

[bubba's mom]

excellent job....as always! http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/cool11.gif (http://www.freesmileys.org)

[LovePug]

Thanks so much for this thread! The more I read, the more excited I'm getting for our first trip!:hyper:

[tlinus]

the heck with the other candidates....goofy! for president :cool1: :cool1: :cool1:

[t-and-a]

the heck with the other candidates....goofy! for president :cool1: :cool1: :cool1:

I'll second that nomination!

[lwilliam]

isn't there something about sit-down restaurants too with your room key?
IF so, CityWalk and park restaurants, front-of-the-line with room key?

[goofy!]

isn't there something about sit-down restaurants too with your room key?
IF so, CityWalk and park restaurants, front-of-the-line with room key?

Yes. Show your room key at the restaurants for front-of-the-line access on their wait list.

You will go to the head of the list for the next available table after reservations and whoever is before you with FOTL.

It worked great for us the last time at Margaritaville. We wandered over just as the parks were letting out, so it was already at a 75 minute wait. They took our name and I showed them our hotel key.

They gave us the pager, but didn't guarantee how fast we would get in.

If anybody knows the lay-out of Margaritaville, the stairs down into the store are approximately 5 steps away from the hostess desk. We did not even get down the 3 steps into the store when our pager went off.

So, it turned a 75 minute wait into less than 3 minutes.

Thank you for reminding me! I added it to the first page.

[goofy!]

the heck with the other candidates....goofy! for president :cool1: :cool1: :cool1:

I'll second that nomination!

:blush: :flower3:

[lwilliam]

these are the important issues!:lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao:

[Grendalynn]

:wave: So glad I found this thread!! We are planning our first S/IOA Vaca for March or April 2009 and I need all the help I can get!!! Iam very green when it comes to US/IOA! I am so glad you al are here!! :wizard: ;)

[piratemom07]

This thread is exactly what I needed to find, we are going to US and IofA in two weeks and we have been trying to figure out a way we could afford to stay on property. My sister and her family are going and they are staying at Hard Rock, I had all but given up but then I read this thread.

If I have read correctly we could do this. We will be coming from Disney and would arrive at Universal on Monday we can check in at RP it will be after 8 am before we arrive. Stay for one night but get to take advantage of the FOTL privilages both days. Tuesday night after park closese head to other hotel and we will be heading home on Wed.

This work out perfectly I had wanted to get my kids the express pass if needed and then my dh and myself would just hang back but this will even be better. I am so excited, :yay: :yay: now I need to call my travel agent and book one night. I found it cheaper through her, I am not a member of AAA and it would cost me 70.00 to become one and when I figured it out I would be paying more to become a member than just going to TA.

If I am incorrect in any of this please someone let me know before I make a mistake of putting the money down for the RP.

Shannon :banana: :banana: :dance3: :dance3:

[goofy!]

This thread is exactly what I needed to find, we are going to US and IofA in two weeks and we have been trying to figure out a way we could afford to stay on property. My sister and her family are going and they are staying at Hard Rock, I had all but given up but then I read this thread.

If I have read correctly we could do this. We will be coming from Disney and would arrive at Universal on Monday we can check in at RP it will be after 8 am before we arrive. Stay for one night but get to take advantage of the FOTL privilages both days. Tuesday night after park closese head to other hotel and we will be heading home on Wed.

This work out perfectly I had wanted to get my kids the express pass if needed and then my dh and myself would just hang back but this will even be better. I am so excited, :yay: :yay: now I need to call my travel agent and book one night. I found it cheaper through her, I am not a member of AAA and it would cost me 70.00 to become one and when I figured it out I would be paying more to become a member than just going to TA.

If I am incorrect in any of this please someone let me know before I make a mistake of putting the money down for the RP.

Shannon :banana: :banana: :dance3: :dance3:
You are absolutely correct.

When you arrive at the RPR on Monday, go straight to the counter and check-in. Even if your room is not ready, you will be given your room keys. You can leave your luggage with the bell hop.

Head down the stairs and out to the boat or walkway and in less than 10 minutes you will be standing in front of the gates of Universal.

Enjoy your FOTL all day and when your room is ready, they will call you. No need to stop by the desk again as they will activate the room keys when the room is ready. Just go on up to the room and call the bell hop for your luggage.

On Tuesday, you can do the same thing in reverse. When you check out, you can leave your luggage again with the bell hop. Even though you have checked out, you can use the room keys until the park closes that evening.

When you are done, return to the RPR, collect your luggage from the bell hop and you can be on your way to the other hotel.

Have a great vacation!

[Rags]

Thanks Goofy!!!!!!:thumbsup2

[macraven]

This thread is exactly what I needed to find, we are going to US and IofA in two weeks and we have been trying to figure out a way we could afford to stay on property. My sister and her family are going and they are staying at Hard Rock, I had all but given up but then I read this thread.

If I have read correctly we could do this. We will be coming from Disney and would arrive at Universal on Monday we can check in at RP it will be after 8 am before we arrive. Stay for one night but get to take advantage of the FOTL privilages both days. Tuesday night after park closese head to other hotel and we will be heading home on Wed.

This work out perfectly I had wanted to get my kids the express pass if needed and then my dh and myself would just hang back but this will even be better. I am so excited, :yay: :yay: now I need to call my travel agent and book one night. I found it cheaper through her, I am not a member of AAA and it would cost me 70.00 to become one and when I figured it out I would be paying more to become a member than just going to TA.

If I am incorrect in any of this please someone let me know before I make a mistake of putting the money down for the RP.

Shannon :banana: :banana: :dance3: :dance3:

i leave disney at 6:45 in the morning and check into hrh by 7:10 am
no room but one time available at that time of the morning.

check in, store your luggage, get the claim check.
call from the park or have a tm call for you and give you the phone to see if your room is ready.

it is an automated system and you have to put in your personalized code to find out your room number. at that point, your hotel key you have in your hand, is automatically coded. you don't have to go to the front desk to find out your room number.
when you get in your room, call star service on the phone and your luggage will be brought up to you.
or you can tell the front desk to have your luggage put in your room once it is assigned while you are in the park.

i do not do it that way.
i prefer to check out the room first to make sure it is what i requested.
have had to switch rooms before even being in the room before.

once you check in, you hotel key is activated and valid for fotl.

i go early, i meet TM friends at city walk for coffee and a roll around 7:45
some places will open early before 8 if you just want coffee
sorry for those that love the disney nescafe, but i hate it and can't wait to get real coffee at universal. that is the one thing i do not like about disney, their coffee.

i go to the ioa turnstile by 8:25 and get in line, usually you are let in around 8:30ish. do the hulk multiple times on front row,
then hit spidey and dueling dragons. then at 9, the park officially opens and the big ones i have already done.
friend usually leaves around 10:30 for work and i am good to go for more rides then.

since it is one night stay for you, check out the next day, store your stuff at valet and get the claim check. i suggest you get a plastic bag and put a change of clothes in there and have it on top of your suitcase, tied it around the handle.
go to the park then. when you return, go to valet, show your claim ticket and tell them to give you that plastic bag. in that bag you have packed fresh clothes and basics to change to.

go swim in the pool if you have time.
if you don't, take your bag to the pool room where you can shower, change clothes, freshen up if you wish.
it is allowed with your room key. soap, towels, etc are provided for all guests.

when done, put the stuff you took off in the plastic bag. i say plastic in case you have wet items, and use your claim check out ticket to get your stuff from valet.

wait for car service and cry as you leave the hotel.

that's what i have been doing since the hotel opened........:goodvibes


if you drove, you can stay parked until the end of the park day without paying for another night. that is if you haven't moved your car off the grounds that day.

hth you will have fun on site.

[macraven]

came back to address the AAA cost.

you don't have the location in your siggie of your locale.

the AAA rate is based on where you live.

i live in the chicago region and it runs higher than some places.

my AAA is $45 a year.

what i did was take the lowest AAA available, not the higher benefit one for the extra travel towing benefits, the free traveler checks, etc.

just the basic and one driver only.
did not put the spouse on.

that is how i got my AAA membership much cheaper than what others might post.

when mr mac wants to shop online with the AAA card for the discounts, he places it in my name. it can be done my agent told me.


see what the cost is for the basic AAA membership, it is a big difference from what they try to push on newb's

[crashbb]

And, in case you live in Canada - any of the AAA benefits also apply to CAA members (I'm booked under the AAA rate through my CAA membership).

I believe (though am not totally sure) that the British (I assume it is British and not just English) AA would also work.

[macraven]

:wave: So glad I found this thread!! We are planning our first S/IOA Vaca for March or April 2009 and I need all the help I can get!!! Iam very green when it comes to US/IOA! I am so glad you al are here!! :wizard: ;)

i know you felt unloved when i told you a couple of weeks ago to check out the stickies, but i see you have found this one and have learned some good tips here.

as you can tell, we do get off the subject from the title of the sticky at times.
i am guilty of that.
when a poster has a question in the sticky thread, i get off track and answer it and so do others at times. even though it is not related to the sticky topic, it is still answered in that thread. therefore, it is good to read them as they are a wealth of knowledge.

one thing to note is the date of the post.
when policies change, we do not go back and update our posts from one or two years ago. if you read thru an entire sticky, you will find outdated info at times.
i suggest to start from a date that is recent of a few months to get current info

i avoid the pm's to answer questions as more people would have the same question and this way all can share in the knowledge.

if you read thru the stickies, you will find other information than the topic it is designed to be.

with the limited forums we have for UO, you will find this a pattern on the darkside.

most of the regular posters are regular darkside attendees.
some are tm's that answer questions in the stickies.

we share our experience and knowledge and give tips on what works generally.

i keep saying i will start a thread called Mac 101.............:laughing:
don't laugh, how do you think i got this post count.........i live on the uo forums

[macraven]

And, in case you live in Canada - any of the AAA benefits also apply to CAA members (I'm booked under the AAA rate through my CAA membership).

I believe (though am not totally sure) that the British (I assume it is British and not just English) AA would also work.

it does, also valid :thumbsup2

[piratemom07]

I booked through TA for one night at RPH for 240.75 for 4 people, 2 adults and 2 kids well teenagers. I called AAA and for basic plan no frills unless I asked the wrong questions but basic plan as far as I could tell was 70.00. But since we can do 2 days of park fun for one night that will work out fine because we are leaving to come home on Wed. anyway.

I thank you so much for this thread I was really excited to learn this could be done. :yay: :yay:

I have another question and this might not be the place to ask but I am going to anyway. For tickets since we only have two days is it best to do unlimited or just one park one day and one the other, or should we have Park Hopper (not what it is called im sure) but you know what I mean.

My TA can get unlimited for 79.99 per person but since we only have two days I was not sure what was best. Any help is appreciated.

If we are driving and we will have our car do we need to go ahead and bring luggage in and leave with bell hop or can we just leave in car and then get out when we come back and room is ready.

Thanks again for everyones help
Shannon

[damo]

I would go for the unlimited and just hop between the two parks each day. You can leave your luggage with the bellhop. They will store it.

[angina]

So if I am staying 5 nights at Royal Pacific, and a friend is showing up for only 2 nights, I still need to have that person registered as a guest to get her a room key, ie, express pass?

Booking 2 adults verses 3 adults is significant in price... we don't plan on going to universal all 5 days, and my friend would only be staying for 2 nights, so I'm trying to see if I can book our room for 2 adults rather than 3...

What is the possibility of requesting another room key? I mean, if you "lose" your room key, can't they just give you another? It's not like they have to "activate" the keys to use it as a pass, right?

[vellamint]

So if I am staying 5 nights at Royal Pacific, and a friend is showing up for only 2 nights, I still need to have that person registered as a guest to get her a room key, ie, express pass?

Booking 2 adults verses 3 adults is significant in price... we don't plan on going to universal all 5 days, and my friend would only be staying for 2 nights, so I'm trying to see if I can book our room for 2 adults rather than 3...

What is the possibility of requesting another room key? I mean, if you "lose" your room key, can't they just give you another? It's not like they have to "activate" the keys to use it as a pass, right?

Im pretty sure if you report your room key lost they deactivate it......and there has got to be something in place to prevent just this sort of thing from happening. I would be nervous doing this.

[angina]

Im pretty sure if you report your room key lost they deactivate it......and there has got to be something in place to prevent just this sort of thing from happening. I would be nervous doing this.

ok... i mean that would make sense.. but im basically paying $25+ more per night because i have a guest staying 2 nights out of 6. Outside of them getting a room key for the express pass, I don't see the point of paying the extra for the 3rd guest. I'd probably be better off just buying a express pass for 2 days for this person...

But does deactivating the room key do anything in terms of the expesspass? to my understanding, you just flash your room key to the person guarding the lines, correct? It's not like you're "scanning" it on some machine...

[goofy!]

ok... i mean that would make sense.. but im basically paying $25+ more per night because i have a guest staying 2 nights out of 6. Outside of them getting a room key for the express pass, I don't see the point of paying the extra for the 3rd guest. I'd probably be better off just buying a express pass for 2 days for this person...

But does deactivating the room key do anything in terms of the expesspass? to my understanding, you just flash your room key to the person guarding the lines, correct? It's not like you're "scanning" it on some machine...

Actually, on many rides they do scan the key. They can scan it at the beginning and then again at the end of the line. I have just shown my key at the entrance to MIB only to run into a team member farther up in the queue holding a hand held scanner to check keys.

I wouldn't try to cheat the system. It always manages to come back to haunt you.

[macraven]

So if I am staying 5 nights at Royal Pacific, and a friend is showing up for only 2 nights, I still need to have that person registered as a guest to get her a room key, ie, express pass?

Booking 2 adults verses 3 adults is significant in price... we don't plan on going to universal all 5 days, and my friend would only be staying for 2 nights, so I'm trying to see if I can book our room for 2 adults rather than 3...

What is the possibility of requesting another room key? I mean, if you "lose" your room key, can't they just give you another? It's not like they have to "activate" the keys to use it as a pass, right?

to answer your first question, yes. if you have a third adult in the room it needs to be acknowledged with the front desk.

why would you lie about it?
how would you feel if you were confronted by the lies you told to get by on the cheap?

do you go to a store and take things because they are there and you think you can get away with it and "save" money?

it's all the same thing.

it's call stealing.


at the hotels, they have to account for all registered guests.

last year at the hrh, the sprinkler system went off during the night.
all guests had to be accounted for and taken out of their rooms that were on the same floor and one below it.

the employees have a responsibility for the safety of all guests.
why put yourself in an embarrassing situation to save $25 a night for a third adult?

have your friend come up with the $50 for the 2 nights they plan to stay with you in the room.

you cover the room for yourself and other friend.
the 2 nighter friend covers the $50.

you all come out fine then.

[angina]

All true... most hotels i've stayed at didn't really charge extra per guest, so didn't think of this... No need to try to "cheat" the hotel and only make a hassle for everyone...

[keishashadow]

Yes. Show your room key at the restaurants for front-of-the-line access on their wait list.

You will go to the head of the list for the next available table after reservations and whoever is before you with FOTL.

It worked great for us the last time at Margaritaville. We wandered over just as the parks were letting out, so it was already at a 75 minute wait. They took our name and I showed them our hotel key.


Thank you for reminding me! I added it to the first page.

Q i tried this @ Margaritaville last trip (on Saturday) and was told it isn't valid on the weekends or holidays? so we moved on to NASCAR:) is this true,if so, are there any other restaurants with the same restriction?

Always wondered which restaurants participate in this @ Citiwalk too:confused3assume Bubba Gumps doesnt (they weren't taking ressies when we were there, not sure if it has changed) anybody have a list?popcorn::

[loribell]

I am glad you have decided against this. We all need to remember that although we think prices may be too high in these places that we choose to visit them. In choosing to do so we do have to pay whatever price they demand.

Do as Mac says and see if your friend can pay the $25/night for just the nights she is there.

[vellamint]

Q i tried this @ Margaritaville last trip (on Saturday) and was told it isn't valid on the weekends or holidays? so we moved on to NASCAR:) is this true,if so, are there any other restaurants with the same restriction?

Always wondered which restaurants participate in this @ Citiwalk too:confused3assume Bubba Gumps doesnt (they weren't taking ressies when we were there, not sure if it has changed) anybody have a list?popcorn::

Oh!! Planning on Marguritaville this Saturday or Sunday night! Can anyone else confirm or deny the FOTL priviledges for this restaurant?

Thanks

[macraven]

they will tell you they don't honor the fotl on weekends and it will be an hour wait if you go around 7ish.

put your name on the list anyway.

usually the people at the on site hotels never have that type of wait.

some in their trippies stated their wait was a reasonable time of close to 10-15 minutes.

i guess they really can't let the hotel guests in when they arrive as the groups that are waiting would riot....:laughing:

once people have their names on the wait list and walk away, no one really knows how long you all have been waiting.

maybe that is why the lesser wait of the hour guests are being told...

[goofy!]

Q i tried this @ Margaritaville last trip (on Saturday) and was told it isn't valid on the weekends or holidays? so we moved on to NASCAR:) is this true,if so, are there any other restaurants with the same restriction?

Always wondered which restaurants participate in this @ Citiwalk too:confused3assume Bubba Gumps doesnt (they weren't taking ressies when we were there, not sure if it has changed) anybody have a list?popcorn::

I wouldn't put it past Margaritaville putting this in place recently. Perhaps it is a summer thing? I know they don't honor it for parties over 7.

However, back in March, they did honor it on a weekend. We walked up when there was an hour and a half wait. Showed our hotel key and they told us it might shave half an hour off. Ok, we had no problem grabbing a Margarita and plopping in the chairs for an hour to people watch. They gave us the beeper, we turned to head down the stairs into the gift shop (on our way to the outside bar), and we literally did not get down the steps. Beeper went off and they seated us at a great table.

[vellamint]

Thanks!!

[Cheryl N. WI]

This is an excellent, imformative thread :thumbsup2 :thumbsup2 :thumbsup2 Thank you, thank you, thank you! This has answered alot of teh questions I had and I have now decided it is worth it to pay the extra money to stay at the RPR for our Dec. trip, (now I just need to decide on 1 night or 2). I didn't know that FOTL would possibly help you get a table quicker at some of the CityWalk restaurants too :cool1:

[GrumpyFamilyof5]

hello, I've been reading through this and have a few questions...
I've seen alot of you say leave your luggage with the bellhop, you don't have to right, can't we just put it in our vehicle??
Most likely we will be staying 2 nights anyway, as in your really tired after a long day at a park, but if we did decide on 1 night, you can still check in early that morning and use you key that day, check out the next morning and it is still good til the end of that day? I just want to make sure, I had read somewhere else someone saying they didn't let you do that anymore?:confused3
Not sure how busy CityWalk is the end of Mar. going into April, but will we have a problem with the Nascar Grill, can you show your key there as well?
Thanks!;) :)

[Bluer101]

hello, I've been reading through this and have a few questions...
I've seen alot of you say leave your luggage with the bellhop, you don't have to right, can't we just put it in our vehicle??
Most likely we will be staying 2 nights anyway, as in your really tired after a long day at a park, but if we did decide on 1 night, you can still check in early that morning and use you key that day, check out the next morning and it is still good til the end of that day? I just want to make sure, I had read somewhere else someone saying they didn't let you do that anymore?:confused3
Not sure how busy CityWalk is the end of Mar. going into April, but will we have a problem with the Nascar Grill, can you show your key there as well?
Thanks!;) :)

We leave our luggage in the car until the room is ready and when we checkout we bring it to the car then go to the park for the rest of the day. Besides we travel light normally on big rolling bag.

Your key for FOTL is good from the time you check in til the next day at park closing. We normally check in around 6-7 am even though the room is not ready till past 4pm. But most of the time when its slow they give you the room at that time also. If the room is not ready they give you your keys and call you later with a room #.

[nifty16]

In the fantastic FAQ on FOTL, it notes that the name of each guest in the room will be on each person's room key. Does that mean that you provide the name of each guest when booking? There doesn't seem to be anyplace to do that when booking on the Royal Pacific site.

[ATAfamily]

In the fantastic FAQ on FOTL, it notes that the name of each guest in the room will be on each person's room key. Does that mean that you provide the name of each guest when booking? There doesn't seem to be anyplace to do that when booking on the Royal Pacific site.

When you check in they will ask for the names of the people in the room and then print out the key cards.

[nifty16]

Thanks.

[Beckles]

Is it really FOTL or Front Of The Line?

No. On these boards, we use the acronym FOTL to differentiate the hotel perk from the Express Pass that you can buy. While we call it FOTL, you might still have to stand in a short line. To expand on this answer, the reason the FOTL designation came about in the first place is that in the early days of the Loews Hotels (and someone may know the timeline more exact, but I believe it changed between HRH and RPR opening or shortly after the RPR opened), showing your room key was truly FOTL access and not just Express access. You would show your room key to the greeter at the head of the line and they would direct you up the exit ramp or some other side/back entrance to get to the FOTL. This was before Universal offered any sort of Express Pass type service. Once Express was introduced (or shortly after Express was introduced maybe) hotel guests received Express access without having to get Express passes. At this point FOTL became a misnomer but still stuck.

[macraven]

i stayed in the "early" days and used the express line for the rides.
that was with using the hotel key card.

[Hedy]

Is it an issue if the other person in your party isn't there at check in?

[macraven]

not really.
just have them check in when they do arrive so they can get the room key.

as long as you only have 2 adults in your room, it won't effect the room rate.

[cyrus12009]

Thanks for positn these FAQ's. I was searching for it.

[jimpossible87]

I used to stay offsite when I went to Universal but ever since my first trip staying at the Hard Rock I just have to stay on site. The room key fast pass privelege and the bot transportation make it worth the extra money by miles!! no going through that giant garage on those long walkways and fast pass all day every day. I cant say enough how worth the money it is. Portofino Bay Sept 29th for me cant wait!!! I wasnt sure if you could still use your key at the restaurants. Seems like I always get a stupid face when Ive tried in the past and I havent seen anything about it lately. SO its still part of the perks?

[teacher100]

This may have been asked before, I apologize if it has. Will FOTL pass work for Harry Potter attractions? We are big Disney fans and have never been to Universal because my oldest who is Autistic doesn't like wild rides (except for Space Mountain because he is into Space things). This is a graduation trip for him. We are debating if it would be worth staying in one of the onsite hotels for our family of five to get FOTL. We are also thinking about getting the 1 day 2 park tickets, but we are going in the first two weeks of August so we don't know how much we can cover.

[damo]

This may have been asked before, I apologize if it has. Will FOTL pass work for Harry Potter attractions? We are big Disney fans and have never been to Universal because my oldest who is Autistic doesn't like wild rides (except for Space Mountain because he is into Space things). This is a graduation trip for him. We are debating if it would be worth staying in one of the onsite hotels for our family of five to get FOTL. We are also thinking about getting the 1 day 2 park tickets, but we are going in the first two weeks of August so we don't know how much we can cover.

It won't be available immediately. They never open a ride and have FOTL available for a few months until the craziness wears down.

[snookhams]

we are travelling in August, do you think that we will be able to use FOTL then for Harry potter and do the parks open early for hotel guest (like at Disney) Thank you

[Metro West]

we are travelling in August, do you think that we will be able to use FOTL then for Harry potter and do the parks open early for hotel guest (like at Disney) Thank you It depends on how things are running in August. Express is not usually available for new attractions for a while but if everything is running smoothly with WWoHP, it may be available. Universal sometimes does an early entry promotion but it's mainly for passholders and only includes a couple of attractions.

[Goonie]

I have a question about the logistics of using the hotel express pass system. When our family goes we will have 4 adults and 2 children. We are planning 2 days in the parks, so we are going to get one room for one night to crash in. This will give us room keys for 3 adults and 2 kids. That will leave my father-in law without an express pass. Will we be able to swap our key cards to let him use express pass at times? Am I correct in assuming they don't care about the name on the card, and only check if it says adult or child? This system would work well for us because my oldest loves riding multiple times and my youngest can't ride everything so he spends a lot of time doing other things with Grandpa anyway.

[phamton]

Technically, it is against policy to share the hotel keys but, realistically, the team members will be looking to see that the card matches as an adult or child not for the name.

[Goonie]

Thanks! That makes sense. Things just became slightly more complicated because it appears that you can longer get a "VIP" Express Pass without staying at an onsite resort. For groups that include guests from onsite and offsite hotels, the offsite guests will be forced into buying an Express pass that only allows 1 ride per attraction per day. Granted this will not affect most people. However, it will reduce waits in Express pass lines (assuming that enough people purchased VIP express tickets in advance online). I know that when my boys ride something they like it's always "Can we do it again?" We used Six Flags' version of the Express Pass last summer and loved it (pricey though!)

[Poly-Anna]

Just spoke to a reservationist who confirmed that FOTL express for hotel guests will be limited to 1 ride per day for the 3 Harry Potter rides only. All other rides will be unlimited as usual. This will be in effect indefinitely (or at least for the rest of the year). :scared1:

[Goonie]

This could be kind of good news if it means that Express Pass for HP would be available at the opening (I know, doubtful... but one can hope!)

[GrumpyFamilyof5]

hello, I have a question,seems like I've read about this before just want to be totally sure before making a reservation.
As a family on a tight budget I've decided on only one night onsite to get the express pass. Is it indeed true that if I go to the hotel before going to the park I can check in and get our keys for the day,spend the night and the keys will still be good for the next day as well? Hope this makes sense,I have a hard time writing what I'm thinking in my head..guess what I'm trying to say is, you can get 2 days of express pass for a 1 night stay??
Thanks for any help! Eeven though I would love my Disney fix,we've never done Universal and have decided to go there this summer!! :thumbsup2

[csmommy]

hello, I have a question,seems like I've read about this before just want to be totally sure before making a reservation.
As a family on a tight budget I've decided on only one night onsite to get the express pass. Is it indeed true that if I go to the hotel before going to the park I can check in and get our keys for the day,spend the night and the keys will still be good for the next day as well? Hope this makes sense,I have a hard time writing what I'm thinking in my head..guess what I'm trying to say is, you can get 2 days of express pass for a 1 night stay??
Thanks for any help! Eeven though I would love my Disney fix,we've never done Universal and have decided to go there this summer!! :thumbsup2


Yes to both! I understand what you are asking & for 1 nights stay you get FOTL for 2 days.

[ky07]

hello, I have a question,seems like I've read about this before just want to be totally sure before making a reservation.
As a family on a tight budget I've decided on only one night onsite to get the express pass. Is it indeed true that if I go to the hotel before going to the park I can check in and get our keys for the day,spend the night and the keys will still be good for the next day as well? Hope this makes sense,I have a hard time writing what I'm thinking in my head..guess what I'm trying to say is, you can get 2 days of express pass for a 1 night stay??
Thanks for any help! Eeven though I would love my Disney fix,we've never done Universal and have decided to go there this summer!! :thumbsup2
Yes you can go and get your room key and check in and if your room isn't ready you can go to the parks while waiting and still use your room key for the express pass and they are also good for the day you check out also :thumbsup2

[GrumpyFamilyof5]

ok awesome, I thought I had read that before. Universal hotels are a little pricey,but I do want the kids to get the full experience and I have already read how the summer can be crucial without the express pass.
I just know we're going to have a good time!!:cool1:
Thanks all ;):thumbsup2

[ky07]

ok awesome, I thought I had read that before. Universal hotels are a little pricey,but I do want the kids to get the full experience and I have already read how the summer can be crucial without the express pass.
I just know we're going to have a good time!!:cool1:
Thanks all ;):thumbsup2
We are going in July and its very busy and hot and this will be or 3rd time staying onsite and the unlimited express pass and the closeness of the hotels make it worth the price but have to admitted it makes a very tight budget for us but we always have a great time and no doubt you and your family will :thumbsup2

[GrumpyFamilyof5]

We are going in July and its very busy and hot and this will be or 3rd time staying onsite and the unlimited express pass and the closeness of the hotels make it worth the price but have to admitted it makes a very tight budget for us but we always have a great time and no doubt you and your family will :thumbsup2

thanks appreciate it,we'll be going the beginning of June. We love(I love,lol) Disney,but we're big on watching movies and I think the kids will really enjoy riding rides that are themed around movies and shows they watch! The new Harry Potter is a plus,the oldest DS is a big fan so I know he'll enjoy that! DS(8) is a big Spongebob fan and DD just goes along with the flow,lol
I want to make the best of it all,but at an affordable price, so I think this will be just the ticket for us!;)

[paper1225]

what is the going price for the hotel express if staying offsite?

[phamton]

You can't get the hotel express unless you are staying onsite. you can buy an express pass though. The prices are here: http://www.universalorlando.com/Tickets/tickets_2.aspx#page=Tickets_special-offers_UniversalExpress_expresspluspasses.html&expID=13-5805&contentID=13-1152&seq=1

Click on "begin purchase" and it will show the prices for different dates.

[paper1225]

yikes! thanks for the information, that is expensive!

[IDoBelieveinFairies!]

This was great information for someone like me who has not been in a few years and it seems things have changed quite a bit. We had planned on sneaking a few days of Universal in at Christmas but keeping our Disney Resort, now this makes us rethink our strategy, I do believe we shall go ahead and check out at Disney and check in at Universal.:cutie:

[azdoughboy]

Do you get early admission to the parks staying onsite? I can't seem to find that info anywhere...thx



BC

[damo]

Do you get early admission to the parks staying onsite? I can't seem to find that info anywhere...thx



BC

It is a seasonal thing.

[azdoughboy]

It is a seasonal thing.


Middle of November..? Is this something I can find online somewhere or...



BC

[Metro West]

Middle of November..? Is this something I can find online somewhere or...



BC I'm pretty sure the only time you would early admission staying onsite would be around very busy periods and with the exception of Thanksgiving weekend, November hasn't been very busy in the past. In fact...the only time I've ever heard of onsite guests getting early entry was in the summer. Now keep in mind...I live 20 minutes away from the parks and don't stay onsite so I'm relying on what others have said.

[Friendly Frog]

How do park tickets work for hotel guests? Does the hotel stay already include park tickets or do you purchase them separately?

[bubba's mom]

sometimes there are packages...but it's usually cheaper to book room & buy tickets separately.

[ZooGuyChris]

How does the show FOTL access work? Do we have to get to the show early to recieve priority seating before anyone else is let in, or can we show up after seating is started and get special seats. Any help would be much appreciated!

[dj2]

if you drove, you can stay parked until the end of the park day without paying for another night. that is if you haven't moved your car off the grounds that day.

is this still true?
i was told yesterday that they charge based on a 24 hour day. but it wouldn't be the first time i've been given wrong information.

[Base]

Have their been any word on if hotel guest get FOTL on any of the harry potter attractions?

[dj2]

Have their been any word on if hotel guest get FOTL on any of the harry potter attractions?

i was told that you get into that part of the park one hour before non-resort guests.

[dinnysuw]

my family and i are staying at RPR 2 adults 3 kids. my mom who lives in orlando will be visiting and going to the parks-she is not staying with us but we would like for her to have a key card to be able to ride the rides with FOTL and also go back and rest in room if necessary. any suggestions on the best way to handle this?

[ladeedeb]

I'm pretty sure the only time you would early admission staying onsite would be around very busy periods and with the exception of Thanksgiving weekend, November hasn't been very busy in the past. In fact...the only time I've ever heard of onsite guests getting early entry was in the summer. Now keep in mind...I live 20 minutes away from the parks and don't stay onsite so I'm relying on what others have said.

I was under the impression that the early entry at IOA was basically for Harry Potter & would continue regardless of season. I believe that the Harry Potter package also allows for early entry, so as long as that package is offered, shouldn't early entry be happening all of the time, at least at IOA?

I just want to make sure that what I have planned & paid for isn't a waste.

Thanks!

[phamton]

The early entry is most likely going to last for awhile for Harry Potter. In the past early entry was seasonal but with the HP packages still being offered, then the early entry will continue.

[paper1225]

We went to WWHOP/Universal/Islands on 7/22(thursday) and 7/25(sunday) without the FOTL and just went to WWHOP an hour earlier than the park opened. We went right into WWHOP and maybe stood in line for FJ for 30 minutes each day. We did not have long waits either day and am glad that we did not pay the extra money for FOTL!

[Mickey Duck]

If I have an on-site reservation for 3 people and wish to pick up room keys very early in the morning before check-in is ready to benefit from the FOTL perk, would each member of my party need to be present at the desk or could I pick up all three room keys while their preparing for check out from our current off-site stay?:confused3

[bubba's mom]

you can check in and get the keys for everyone

[rmdavis]

Hello all, I am staying onsite for the first time in Dec, and was curious about how the FOTL works for shows, is it a reserved seating area or just entry before the rest of the crowds. Trying to find out if I need to get to the shows to line up or if it works to just walk in. Thanks.

[bubba's mom]

Just look for the Express Entrance...it's a seperate entrance and lets in before the standby line.

[mattkev2001]

Wow, did not realize the FOTL pass also assists with dining reservations. Great to know!

I've checked a few packages for resort hotels and they mention the FOTL option for dates up to 12/31/10. Is it easily assumed this deal will continue in 2011? Has it been around for years?

Thanks for all the info.

[Metro West]

Wow, did not realize the FOTL pass also assists with dining reservations. Great to know!

I've checked a few packages for resort hotels and they mention the FOTL option for dates up to 12/31/10. Is it easily assumed this deal will continue in 2011? Has it been around for years?

Thanks for all the info. All onsite resort guests receive unlimited Express...that's a permanent perk...like Disney and their EMHs.

[ShelsGoingToDisney]

I am a WDW veteran but Universal newbie. We are considering doing a couple days at Universal in March when we go to FL for a shuttle launch. I am in the very, very early stages of researching so please forgive my possible stupid question.

I read the FAQ and it said that the FOTL was good for all rides. Does this mean every ride/show at US and IOA have the express line? Or is it just the popular rides like at WDW? TIA!!

[macraven]

yes, everything but the P Flyers and FJ. You can use the express lines for all of them (with the above exception) as many times you wish when you stay onsite.

also, with that hotel key, some places in City Walk gives you priority seating with it.

[Anagnorisis]

I bought the Express Pass online.

Then made on-site hotel reservations. Now I realize that staying at one of the park's hotels I do not need the Express passes.

The confirmation email that I got says all sales are final and non-refundable.

Can I get those passes refunded if I can prove that I am staying at one of their hotels?

Thanks.

[damo]

I bought the Express Pass online.

Then made on-site hotel reservations. Now I realize that staying at one of the park's hotels I do not need the Express passes.

The confirmation email that I got says all sales are final and non-refundable.

Can I get those passes refunded if I can prove that I am staying at one of their hotels?

Thanks.

Call them and explain the situation. They may refund it.

[Anagnorisis]

Don't believe the first thing they tell you.

I called and the person from customer service said all sales were final and there was no chance of a refund. That it was clearly indicated in the confirmation that I got.

I hung up and called the same number. This time the person who took the calll, said that yes it could be done, but by another department to which she transferred me. I got the refund!

[rpbert1]

Yeah, i find not all agents are upto date on things, and frequently need to call back and get someone who knows what way they operate.
Glad you got the refund.

[dj2]

I hung up and called the same number. This time the person who took the calll, said that yes it could be done, but by another department to which she transferred me. I got the refund!

i'm SO GLAD you called them right back. that's such a good strategy, easy to forget, but so often works in many scenarios! congrats!!!!

[ammeador2]

To those of you that are Universal Pros do you think that staying onsite is worth the extra money? We will be there June 3-11 and I wasn't certain how crazy busy the parks will be. I am just a little torn about spending an extra 1000 to stay on site vs off site, but I do love the idea of shorter lines. Any tips would be appreciated.

[damo]

To those of you that are Universal Pros do you think that staying onsite is worth the extra money? We will be there June 3-11 and I wasn't certain how crazy busy the parks will be. I am just a little torn about spending an extra 1000 to stay on site vs off site, but I do love the idea of shorter lines. Any tips would be appreciated.

You might want to check into purchasing one annual pass since you can get large discounts on hotels rooms. You don't need to have purchased the pass in order to book your rooms. Use this site and enter APH as the code http://www.loewshotels.com/en/booking/uo?hotels=UEPBH,UEHRH,UERPR


Then you can check here for the annual pass http://www.universalorlando.com/Tickets/Annual_Passholders/non_fl_annualpass.aspx?ComponentId=12956&SourcePageId=13636#8

[ammeador2]

You might want to check into purchasing one annual pass since you can get large discounts on hotels rooms. You don't need to have purchased the pass in order to book your rooms. Use this site and enter APH as the code http://www.loewshotels.com/en/booking/uo?hotels=UEPBH,UEHRH,UERPR


Then you can check here for the annual pass http://www.universalorlando.com/Tickets/Annual_Passholders/non_fl_annualpass.aspx?ComponentId=12956&SourcePageId=13636#8

thanks but that was more expensive! just my luck! i am hoping that they will come out with some kind of deal or something...

[damo]

thanks but that was more expensive! just my luck! i am hoping that they will come out with some kind of deal or something...

You can get RPR for $174 up to the 10th of June.

[ammeador2]

The annual pass rates aren't out yet for those all those dates. You can get RPR for $174 for the beginning.

either way i live to far away to use an annual pass so it's really a mute point since they are expensive and the regular ap doesn't offer room discount.

[damo]

either way i live to far away to use an annual pass so it's really a mute point since they are expensive and the regular ap doesn't offer room discount.

You can get a rate of 174 up to the 10th at the RPR The annual pass is $224. The savings might be worth it.

[ammeador2]

You can get a rate of 174 up to the 10th at the RPR The annual pass is $224. The savings might be worth it.

thanks! that does make it better. especially since they have the flex pay for the pass it won't seem to ungodly! actually i found the power pass that is 159.99 there are some blackout dates but the dates we are going are okay so i am considering that option! ;) i am going to get the kids and dh the orlando flex and then i can just buy the ticket for sea world when we go there. ;) thanks again!

[ShelsGoingToDisney]

Make sure you are looking at the non-resident AP's and not the FL AP. There is a difference.

We were there last week and bought one preferred AP. It cost app. $80 more than the 2 day 2 park tickets. WE were able to by the other 4 2D/2P ticket with a 15% discount since we had the AP. Then we got our room for $139 per night vs. $279. We ended up having to stay 3 extra nights due to the snowstorm delaying our flight last week so that ended up being a HUGE savings. You also get 10% discount in all stores and restaurants at IOA, US, and Citywalk. We also got a discount at the Universal store in the Orlando Airport!

Needless to say that initial $80 extra paid for itself multiple times over. I highly recommend looking into it very closely!

Even though we were at the parks during a slower time I loved having the Express pass option and getting into HP an hour early due to staying onsite. Well worth it!

[ammeador2]

Make sure you are looking at the non-resident AP's and not the FL AP. There is a difference.

We were there last week and bought one preferred AP. It cost app. $80 more than the 2 day 2 park tickets. WE were able to by the other 4 2D/2P ticket with a 15% discount since we had the AP. Then we got our room for $139 per night vs. $279. We ended up having to stay 3 extra nights due to the snowstorm delaying our flight last week so that ended up being a HUGE savings. You also get 10% discount in all stores and restaurants at IOA, US, and Citywalk. We also got a discount at the Universal store in the Orlando Airport!

Needless to say that initial $80 extra paid for itself multiple times over. I highly recommend looking into it very closely!

Even though we were at the parks during a slower time I loved having the Express pass option and getting into HP an hour early due to staying onsite. Well worth it!

That darn fine print! ;) Noticed that after I posted ah well. It will still save us a lot of money I think if we get 1 pass and then buy the rest of the tickets. We were up to almost 2900 just with the hotel room and flex tickets.. did you get your theme park tickets for the rest of your family while you were there or did you get them before hand? just curious..

[ShelsGoingToDisney]

That darn fine print! ;) Noticed that after I posted ah well. It will still save us a lot of money I think if we get 1 pass and then buy the rest of the tickets. We were up to almost 2900 just with the hotel room and flex tickets.. did you get your theme park tickets for the rest of your family while you were there or did you get them before hand? just curious..

We arrived at RPR the night before we went to the parks so we walked over to the front gates of IOA and purchased the AP and the additional tickets with the 15% off discount. That way we didn't waste any of our early morning time in HP buying tickets and whatnot. They had to do it in 2 separate transactions with the AP being purchased first. From what I have read to get the 15% discount you have to buy the tickets (not AP) at the gates, not online or any other place.

[Stinasmom]

my family and i are staying at RPR 2 adults 3 kids. my mom who lives in orlando will be visiting and going to the parks-she is not staying with us but we would like for her to have a key card to be able to ride the rides with FOTL

Hi!
Wanted to re-ask this question since I didn't see a definite answer...
Our stituation is similar in that we have a night at RPR for 2 adults/2 kids but have the grandparents traveling with us.
Is it correct that we can add one more adult at a cost of $25?
What about the 4th adult (6th person)?
Are they out of luck?

Thanks!!

[macraven]

Hi!
Wanted to re-ask this question since I didn't see a definite answer...
Our stituation is similar in that we have a night at RPR for 2 adults/2 kids but have the grandparents traveling with us.
Is it correct that we can add one more adult at a cost of $25?
What about the 4th adult (6th person)?
Are they out of luck?

Thanks!!

you will need to book 2 rooms to accomodate the 6 of you.
5 to a room is the maximum per fire regulations.

if you have more than 2 adults, age 18 and over, in one room, you do pay an additional $25 per night for the extra adult.

[Stinasmom]

you will need to book 2 rooms to accomodate the 6 of you.
5 to a room is the maximum per fire regulations.

if you have more than 2 adults, age 18 and over, in one room, you do pay an additional $25 per night for the extra adult.


Thanks so much for getting back to me.
My mom will not want to go on most of the rides, but if she does want to try one of the easier simulator ones, can she use my card and go with the kids while I wait it out in the gift shop?
Not trying to cheat the system, just checking...
Also, if we use our guest perks to get into a restaurant, will they even care if we have 5 room keys but 6 diners?

Thanks again! Love knowing the ins & outs before we get there!:thumbsup2

[JAD74]

Hello all

What a fantastic source of information. Well done to everyone.

My family and I are booked to stay at the Royal Pacific Resort in Orlando on June 30th 2011 until the following day July 1st 2011. I think I am right in thinking that on the day I am scheduled to book into the hotel I can arrive early and receive a key that allows me to enter the parks early and also utilise the Front of the Line perk. I also believe that the early admission and FOTL is good for the following day i.e. the day we check out. I have a few questions that I would really appreciate an answer to:

1. Is my understanding above correct?

2. Is the parking garage open at 6:00am so that i can book into the hotel very early and get early admission on the day of arrival (I am aware the room is not available until 16:00hrs)?

3. I take it I need to buy 2 days parking (day of arrival and day of departure)?

4. If I book out of the room before 11:00am on the day of departure, How do I use FOTL? Do I not need to hand back the key to the room?

Any help much appreciated.

Kind Regards JAD74

[Bluer101]

Hello all

What a fantastic source of information. Well done to everyone.

My family and I are booked to stay at the Royal Pacific Resort in Orlando on June 30th 2011 until the following day July 1st 2011. I think I am right in thinking that on the day I am scheduled to book into the hotel I can arrive early and receive a key that allows me to enter the parks early and also utilise the Front of the Line perk. I also believe that the early admission and FOTL is good for the following day i.e. the day we check out. I have a few questions that I would really appreciate an answer to:

1. Is my understanding above correct?

2. Is the parking garage open at 6:00am so that i can book into the hotel very early and get early admission on the day of arrival (I am aware the room is not available until 16:00hrs)?

3. I take it I need to buy 2 days parking (day of arrival and day of departure)?

4. If I book out of the room before 11:00am on the day of departure, How do I use FOTL? Do I not need to hand back the key to the room?

Any help much appreciated.

Kind Regards JAD74

1. Everything is correct.

2. You don't park in the parking garage. Thats for people who stay off site. You will be parking in RPR parking lot and its open 24/7.

3.Yes you will pay a check in 2 days for parking. They will ask if you have a car.

4.You get to keep the room keys forever.:thumbsup2 They have your name, hotel, and dates on them. Thats how the team members at the rides know if its valid, by date.


BTW: Welcome to the boards!!

[JAD74]

1. Everything is correct.

2. You don't park in the parking garage. Thats for people who stay off site. You will be parking in RPR parking lot and its open 24/7.

3.Yes you will pay a check in 2 days for parking. They will ask if you have a car.

4.You get to keep the room keys forever.:thumbsup2 They have your name, hotel, and dates on them. Thats how the team members at the rides know if its valid, by date.


BTW: Welcome to the boards!!

Thank you very much indeed for getting back so quickly! Thanks very much for the information:thumbsup2

[ladeedeb]

1. Everything is correct.

2. You don't park in the parking garage. Thats for people who stay off site. You will be parking in RPR parking lot and its open 24/7.

3.Yes you will pay a check in 2 days for parking. They will ask if you have a car.

4.You get to keep the room keys forever.:thumbsup2 They have your name, hotel, and dates on them. Thats how the team members at the rides know if its valid, by date.


BTW: Welcome to the boards!!

I believe the onsite hotel parking charges by the night & it's $15/night. I don't know if they go by 24 hr. time period, or strictly by the night, but it says on their site that it is per night. I believe we came in in the afternoon & left a few days later in the morning & we were charged by number of nights stayed. I am sure someone will correct me if they had something different happen, but you may want to call & double check. Have fun! :)

[macraven]

Thanks so much for getting back to me.
My mom will not want to go on most of the rides, but if she does want to try one of the easier simulator ones, can she use my card and go with the kids while I wait it out in the gift shop?
Not trying to cheat the system, just checking...
Also, if we use our guest perks to get into a restaurant, will they even care if we have 5 room keys but 6 diners?

Thanks again! Love knowing the ins & outs before we get there!:thumbsup2

sorry about being late in answering you.
i didn't get the notice of this thread having a reply...

the names of the hotel guests are on the hotel cards.
there is a policy on the dis boards that posters can not circumvent ways to go around policies.........

but i say, if a female adult uses the card that has a female adult listed as a hotel guest, who would know the difference.

you only need one hotel card key for the 6 diners.
not every one in the group has to be hotel guests for you to get the priority in line at the restaurants.

[macraven]

I believe the onsite hotel parking charges by the night & it's $15/night. I don't know if they go by 24 hr. time period, or strictly by the night, but it says on their site that it is per night. I believe we came in in the afternoon & left a few days later in the morning & we were charged by number of nights stayed. I am sure someone will correct me if they had something different happen, but you may want to call & double check. Have fun! :)

you are correct.
you pay for the night when you have a car in the hotel parking lot.

for example:
you check in june 1 and leave june 2
you only pay for one night of $15, even if you are staying late till the park closes. you pay when you check out of the hotel but don't have to move your car necessarily.
you still have the perk of using the express line until the park closes that second day/check out day.

[turningleaf]

Hi,
I'm wondering if you get the same resort discount if you're a Florida Pass Holder? Is the code also APH or is it something else? Thanks.

Re: the free parking benefit, is it at the hotel also or only at the park? Meaning if you stay on site the free parking benefit doesn't really apply?

You might want to check into purchasing one annual pass since you can get large discounts on hotels rooms. You don't need to have purchased the pass in order to book your rooms. Use this site and enter APH as the code http://www.loewshotels.com/en/booking/uo?hotels=UEPBH,UEHRH,UERPR


Then you can check here for the annual pass http://www.universalorlando.com/Tickets/Annual_Passholders/non_fl_annualpass.aspx?ComponentId=12956&SourcePageId=13636#8

[macraven]

the AP gives you the free parking at the parking garage.

the hotels have a nightly parking charge for the resort guests with autos.

[vleeth]

The original post in this sticky named 3 hotels that get you fotl passes. Are those the only 3?

[macraven]

it's not a fotl/front of the line pass but the useage of the express lines, with no limitations for hotel guests.

if you stay on one of the onsite hotels, that is one of the perks for the guests.
express line from the time you check in till midnight of the day you check out.

[macraven]

The original post in this sticky named 3 hotels that get you fotl passes. Are those the only 3?

forgot to answer your question completely...
yes, the perk are for the guests that stay at one of the 3 onsite hotels.

[vleeth]

Thanks!!!!!!

[macraven]

:thumbsup2

[Kate3456]

Is there a car rental counter at any of the universal hotels?

[macraven]

Hi,
I'm wondering if you get the same resort discount if you're a Florida Pass Holder? Is the code also APH or is it something else? Thanks.

Re: the free parking benefit, is it at the hotel also or only at the park? Meaning if you stay on site the free parking benefit doesn't really apply?

ap for the floridian resident is cheaper than the regular ap in costs.
check the ap website for the residents perks on hotel discounts.
APH is the code for AP.

there are some promos/discounts that are not on the website so you have to call to book them at promo rates.


i have heard they can get a better discount than the reg. ap holders but do not know for sure.

free parking is only at the garage for the parks.
if you are a hotel guest, it is $15 per night for parking.

[macraven]

Is there a car rental counter at any of the universal hotels?

yes

[JennyMP03]

Hmm. We were going to just try our luck for a visit on Monday, July 11, but I'm seriously considering using our AAA discount to book the cheapest onsite room we can get and have that awesome FOTL pass for the day. This thread makes it look very appealing.

Can you still not use the FOTL pass on Forbidden Journey?

[macraven]

Hmm. We were going to just try our luck for a visit on Monday, July 11, but I'm seriously considering using our AAA discount to book the cheapest onsite room we can get and have that awesome FOTL pass for the day. This thread makes it look very appealing.

Can you still not use the FOTL pass on Forbidden Journey?

correct.
no express lines for FJ


single rider line will help cut the time you are in the regular line.

it really isn't bad.
can't do much talking during the ride the way the seat benches are set up.

[JennyMP03]

Thanks for the quick reply, macraven! We will take advantage of the early admission to the Harry Potter section and go straight to Forbidden Journey as our first ride. I want to fully experience the queue anyway as I hear it's almost as entertaining as the ride itself.

[macraven]

Thanks for the quick reply, macraven! We will take advantage of the early admission to the Harry Potter section and go straight to Forbidden Journey as our first ride. I want to fully experience the queue anyway as I hear it's almost as entertaining as the ride itself.

if you are interested in doing the wand presentation at ollivanders, do it before you ride FJ.

the roon at ollivanders does not hold many peeps.
i believe it is about 20 they let in for each 10-15 'show'

if i have those times incorrect, i'm sure someone will post to correct me.
i am going off of memory here.....:rolleyes1


the line for ollivanders gets very long once the general public are let in.

if you do that shop first, you will have more of a wait for FJ.



if the park is open late, (9:00), return when it is around 7:30.
i am reading that waits are very little near the end of the park day.


do the castle tour for all the details.
be sure to do the ride.

i did the tour and then did the regular line.

after that, i only do the single rider line.

[JennyMP03]

Great tips, macraven. I'll make myself a note about Ollivander's. Thanks so much!

[macraven]

:)

[Bethpremier]

I definitely should have read this BEFORE I posed my question on the boards. Ive been debating for some time about whether I should book onsite and I totally think the FOTL is worth it. I did just want to verify one thing as I seem to be confusing some answers.

We would be checking in on Sept 9 and departing on Sept 10. Would I pay $15 one time for parking or twice? We will be in the park all day on Sept 10.

Thanks!

[damo]

I definitely should have read this BEFORE I posed my question on the boards. Ive been debating for some time about whether I should book onsite and I totally think the FOTL is worth it. I did just want to verify one thing as I seem to be confusing some answers.

We would be checking in on Sept 9 and departing on Sept 10. Would I pay $15 one time for parking or twice? We will be in the park all day on Sept 10.

Thanks!

You only pay parking twice if you stay over two midnights. Since you will just be staying over one midnight, you will just pay once.

[pinkplaydoh]

What is the best way to carry around your room key? Can you put it on a lanyard?

[Bluer101]

What is the best way to carry around your room key? Can you put it on a lanyard?

Thats what most people do along with your park pass.:thumbsup2 If you do not have one the parks have lots to choose from ranging from $7 to $10.

[damo]

What is the best way to carry around your room key? Can you put it on a lanyard?

Yes. There are many lanyards for sale around the parks and at the hotels.

[Csaks]

Ok, am I stupid or is this answer around here somewhere?

Does the hotel front of the line thing work for Halloween Haunt? We are trying to decide on staying onsite next year and if this applicable it would be worth it. The lines for the houses were hell last year after about 9pm and those would come in handy.

[JessicaR]

Ok, am I stupid or is this answer around here somewhere?

Does the hotel front of the line thing work for Halloween Haunt? We are trying to decide on staying onsite next year and if this applicable it would be worth it. The lines for the houses were hell last year after about 9pm and those would come in handy.

Sorry no. You can purchase a HHN express pass.

[Metro West]

Ok, am I stupid or is this answer around here somewhere?

Does the hotel front of the line thing work for Halloween Haunt? We are trying to decide on staying onsite next year and if this applicable it would be worth it. The lines for the houses were hell last year after about 9pm and those would come in handy. As Jessica stated hotel benefits do not carry over to HHN but Express Plus passes are available for sale. They can be pricey depending on the night you're going so you can check the HHN website to get an idea of the cost.

[Csaks]

Thanks you two. It is a hard thing to find.
We had a blast last year and are trying to get back for next year. We stayed at the Doubletree which was great but were hoping to do the 'onsite' thing. The prices are scaring the crap outta me and was hoping that the hotel stay would come with the fastpass thing. It doesn't so now I need to decide if it is really worth the shorter walk or not.

[modegard]

So if I book a room directly with Loews and buy tickets to US separately, do I still get all the perks? Early entry to HP and FOTL? I am not clear on if I only get these perks if I buy a package from Universal itself, or if I can purchase them separately to save some $ and still get all the perks.

Looks like I would get FOTL since it is just the hotel key card, but what about early entry to HP? Is it the same thing, just show your hotel key?

I was looking at using travel miles to get the tickets to US. For 3 days for our group of 8 it would save us $1200.

Thanks!


Merilee

[damo]

So if I book a room directly with Loews and buy tickets to US separately, do I still get all the perks? Early entry to HP and FOTL? I am not clear on if I only get these perks if I buy a package from Universal itself, or if I can purchase them separately to save some $ and still get all the perks.

Looks like I would get FOTL since it is just the hotel key card, but what about early entry to HP? Is it the same thing, just show your hotel key?

I was looking at using travel miles to get the tickets to US. For 3 days for our group of 8 it would save us $1200.

Thanks!


Merilee

If you are staying onsite, it doesn't matter where you get your tickets. The perks all come from just staying onsite.

[modegard]

Beautiful! Thanks so much Damo!

:cheer2:


Merilee

[othello32]

Which hotel out of the 3 that provides Express Pass, (Royal Pacific, the Hard Rock Hotel and the Portofino Bay) would you recommend? What's better for the money? Better for kids?

[damo]

Which hotel out of the 3 that provides Express Pass, (Royal Pacific, the Hard Rock Hotel and the Portofino Bay) would you recommend? What's better for the money? Better for kids?

RPR is the cheapest and is probably best for little kids. HRH is the middle and probably best for teens. PBH is the most expensive and probably best for adults.


(in a nutshell)

[sheryl921]

Anyone have any tips for getting an onsite hotel for New Year's Eve? (I know, I should have booked months ago...) The only one showing availabilty if RPR for $359/night, minimum 2 night stay!!! :faint: Ideally, I was hoping to book the Hard Rock for just 1 night, but...:sad:

[Bluer101]

Anyone have any tips for getting an onsite hotel for New Year's Eve? (I know, I should have booked months ago...) The only one showing availabilty if RPR for $359/night, minimum 2 night stay!!! :faint: Ideally, I was hoping to book the Hard Rock for just 1 night, but...:sad:

You won't find any deals for that week or weekend.

[JessicaR]

Anyone have any tips for getting an onsite hotel for New Year's Eve? (I know, I should have booked months ago...) The only one showing availabilty if RPR for $359/night, minimum 2 night stay!!! :faint: Ideally, I was hoping to book the Hard Rock for just 1 night, but...:sad:

They have mandatory amount of nights for these dates. I don't think they even take a 1 night booking. We went over Christmas and had a 3 night minimum.

[Metro West]

They have mandatory amount of nights for these dates. I don't think they even take a 1 night booking. We went over Christmas and had a 3 night minimum. Yes...There are minimum night stays over a major holiday weekend.

[kuayoung]

So I am planning to go the week before Christmas :banana:

I was going through the reservation process and quit because it said my FOTL benefits were only the day of check in (it actually showed the date). I am not claiming to have read everything but did the first page and searched. Is this something new? We were there last summer and didn't have this problem.

Thanks

[macraven]

So I am planning to go the week before Christmas :banana:

I was going through the reservation process and quit because it said my FOTL benefits were only the day of check in (it actually showed the date). I am not claiming to have read everything but did the first page and searched. Is this something new? We were there last summer and didn't have this problem.

Thanks

when you stay onsite, you are allowed the usage of the express lines for the day you check in and the day you check out.

[kuayoung]

when you stay onsite, you are allowed the usage of the express lines for the day you check in and the day you check out.

Thank you. That is how it was this summer but the confirmation page really looked like it was only one day and that was the check in day!

[Stinasmom]

Thank you. That is how it was this summer but the confirmation page really looked like it was only one day and that was the check in day!

Ahh! Say it isn't so!

We stayed there Spring Break (3/2011) and DID get to use our room keys as FOTL passes the day we checked in and the (next )day we checked out.
So, I've advised some friends who are traveling over the Christmas break to do this too....
If someone finds out that it's only good for one day, please let us know!

[damo]

Ahh! Say it isn't so!

We stayed there Spring Break (3/2011) and DID get to use our room keys as FOTL passes the day we checked in and the (next )day we checked out.
So, I've advised some friends who are traveling over the Christmas break to do this too....
If someone finds out that it's only good for one day, please let us know!

http://www.loewshotels.com/en/Portofino-Bay-Hotel/index/faqs

It is quite clear in the FAQs that it is good from check in until park close on departure day.


Q: What days is the Loews on-site hotel room key, that serve as Express Access to skip the regular lines valid throughout my stay?
A: Your Loews on-site hotel room key is valid for Express Access (at participating attractions) from the time issued by the front desk until the Universal Orlando theme parks close, the day of your departure

[macraven]

Ahh! Say it isn't so!

We stayed there Spring Break (3/2011) and DID get to use our room keys as FOTL passes the day we checked in and the (next )day we checked out.
So, I've advised some friends who are traveling over the Christmas break to do this too....
If someone finds out that it's only good for one day, please let us know!

eh, it isn't so.

i had checked the same site and did a google search when i answered above you.

and as damo agreed with my post, she also added where the source came from.
hotel guests do get the perk of express line unlimited usage the day they check out of the onsite hotel.

don't fret.
policy is still the same.

[ZYanksRule]

I'm confused -- if you stay at a Universal hotel, you get the express pass. But do you also get free park tickets, or do you have to buy your park tickets separately?

[Momw/aplan]

I'm confused -- if you stay at a Universal hotel, you get the express pass. But do you also get free park tickets, or do you have to buy your park tickets separately?

You must buy your park admission tickets separately. Once in the park though you can use your room keycard as an express pass to most of the rides.

[bubba's mom]

I'm confused -- if you stay at a Universal hotel, you get the express pass. But do you also get free park tickets, or do you have to buy your park tickets separately?

You must buy your park admission tickets separately. Once in the park though you can use your room keycard as an express pass to most of the rides.

If you stay at a Universal hotel, the 'express pass' IS your room key ;)

[ZYanksRule]

You must buy your park admission tickets separately. Once in the park though you can use your room keycard as an express pass to most of the rides.

Gotcha.

And, if you plan on staying more than 4 days, is there a way to buy tickets longer than 4 days?

[Momw/aplan]

Gotcha.

And, if you plan on staying more than 4 days, is there a way to buy tickets longer than 4 days?

Yes. You might want to look into the Universal 3-Park Unlimited ticket. It gets you admission to IOA, US, and Wet-n-Wild Orlando for fourteen consecutive days for about $26 more than the 4 day park-to-park for an adult (or about $19 more for kids).

I haven't gotten these before myself, but my understanding of them is that they expire 14 days after you've activated them by entering one of the parks, but you can use them however many times you want during those 14 days at as many of the 3 parks as you want per day.

So it is essentially a park-to-park-to-park 14 day ticket for barely more than a park-to-park 4 day ticket. It seems like a REALLY good deal to me if you plan to be in the parks for more than 4 days even if you're not interested in the water park.

And you might want to consider buying them from www.undercovertourist.com. It can really save you some money. From everything I've read UT is a very reliable source for tickets to both Universal and Disney. We plan to use them for our upcoming trip. Keep in mind while you are comparison shopping that the price quoted to you on the initial ticket purchasing page of Universal's website doesn't include tax & shipping, whereas the price on Undercover Tourist's site already has that included. Plus if you sign up for the mousesavers montly newsletter at www.mousesavers.com you can get a special discount link to undercovertourist's ticket sales that will save you even a couple of dollars more.

[ZYanksRule]

Yes. You might want to look into the Universal 3-Park Unlimited ticket. It gets you admission to IOA, US, and Wet-n-Wild Orlando for fourteen consecutive days for about $26 more than the 4 day park-to-park for an adult (or about $19 more for kids).

I haven't gotten these before myself, but my understanding of them is that they expire 14 days after you've activated them by entering one of the parks, but you can use them however many times you want during those 14 days at as many of the 3 parks as you want per day.

So it is essentially a park-to-park-to-park 14 day ticket for barely more than a park-to-park 4 day ticket. It seems like a REALLY good deal to me if you plan to be in the parks for more than 4 days even if you're not interested in the water park.

And you might want to consider buying them from www.undercovertourist.com. It can really save you some money. From everything I've read UT is a very reliable source for tickets to both Universal and Disney. We plan to use them for our upcoming trip. Keep in mind while you are comparison shopping that the price quoted to you on the initial ticket purchasing page of Universal's website doesn't include tax & shipping, whereas the price on Undercover Tourist's site already has that included. Plus if you sign up for the mousesavers montly newsletter at www.mousesavers.com you can get a special discount link to undercovertourist's ticket sales that will save you even a couple of dollars more.

Thanks!