Oh My God, It CAN Get WORSE! [Archive] - The DIS Discussion Forums

Planogirl

04-21-2002, 12:47 AM

OK, I was willing to admit that the outside was not my thing but that it could appeal to some people. I think someone even mentioned that one could always close one's curtains and block out the sight of the outdoor nonsense. However, I could never tolerate those wacky colors in my room and in the rest of the indoor areas. Everything (to ME of course) is just plain ugly and I don't like ugly at my resort. :mad:

C'mon Disney! :confused:

GeorgeG

04-21-2002, 12:54 AM

The word "gaudy" comes to mind...

J. Thornhill

04-21-2002, 07:45 AM

If you were to ignore it's highly objectionable placement at the entrance to the property, as well as the thoughtless choices of last century's most popular catch phrases, it isn't as bad as I was led to believe.

Although I wouldn't choose to stay there myself, (what a pompous and over-used but oh-so-true phrase) I can see how it might appeal to some.

I realize that it will take a landscaping miracle to completely save the resort, but I think when they plop in a few more mature trees, get the sod put down, etc., it will look just as "good" as the All-Stars.

Disney undoubtedly believes this as well. All they need is a good photographer, the right angles, a few more trees, a little more grass, a bright sunny day, a corny press release and Presto! The masses will be just as thrilled with this as they were with the All-Stars.

In sum, I guess I'm just saying that even though we all know it's a nasty waste of property, and completely beneath them, Disney can make anything look "pretty", at least to someone. We will have to resign ourselves to the fact that many, many people (mostly former day-guests) will eat this up, thereby encouraging Disney to build even more crap.

J.-

BTW, Anyone surprised to see Roger Rabbit?

space42

04-21-2002, 08:06 AM

Wonder if those Disney characters are a new addition? I don't recall ever seeing characters on any of the concept art or renderings. Perhaps they are trying to make it more Disney?

paradefreak

04-21-2002, 12:02 PM

WOW, it is really looking great. I hope it opens by January so that I can stay there. I just love how Disney so masterfully has created resorts - All Stars and now Pop Century - that are magical extensions of the theme parks. It's also great that Disney builds resorts that appeal to all people. Personally, I am not thrilled or excited by POR/POFQ so I don't look at pictures of it on the internet and I don't drive by it while on property. It's amazing that so many people on this site and others profess to hate this new resort but spend a lot of time looking at pictures of it and discussing it. This much passion tells me that Disney knows just what they are doing.

Testtrack321

04-21-2002, 12:36 PM

Um, I hope thats sarcasatic...

OnWithTheShow

04-21-2002, 02:17 PM

I re-iterate my support for Pop Century. I really seriously like it for what it is another, needed, value resort. For those of you who dont like the looks of it, DONT STAY THERE! I promise that when it is done you will be able to see little to none of it from other resorts.

stings

04-21-2002, 05:46 PM

As a previous poster said "I wouldn't stay there myself.." but for those people who may not be able to afford to stay on Disney property I think its great. I'm not being tongue in cheek here. The resort was supposed to look "gaudy". Many people think that gaudy equates with flashy, trashy, and even ugly. And for those people they are "right". However in the context of the resort gaudy here seems more like, well.. fun! I am sure kids will love the place, and as we have all noticed the place is full of kids, ours included. The GF its not, but it does seem to be a relatively inexpensive, colorful, and lighthearted, place to stay at WDW. In closing I seem to remember a debate over the Swan and Dolphin resorts and the "art" that graces those hotels. Different strokes as they say.

poohbear2

04-21-2002, 06:48 PM

:confused:

No offense, BUT I think the colors and decor are a 'little' bit loud.

I would rather spend a few more bucks and stay at one of the moderates.

DisneyFanGuy

04-21-2002, 07:26 PM

As much as I don't like it personally, I admire Disney for taking a risk. Those have been few and far between lately. If people really really don't like it, then they will fix. They do still respond to their guests. They are re-doing Imagination, and again BK is on the boards (possibly). They are trying to fix that "awful" mess, DCA, which is much less horrible in person than on these boards.

I am still pretty disappointed with many things that they are doing, but, in general they seem to be responding. I even noticed an improvement in upkeep over spring break at the MK and at MGM.

marty3d

04-21-2002, 07:41 PM

I wouldn't choose to stay there either. But it does appear that Disney has achieved what they set out to do. As for tacky - what about 2/3 of the hotles off Disney property? There are actually people who like them.

Once PC opens, I think we can truly say that there will be a Disney Resort for every taste.

Make mine Port Orleans (both of them)!

Testtrack321

04-21-2002, 08:24 PM

If there is one thing I like are the Time covers in frams. That's a good idea.
Also think about not just making it with catch frazes, but why do building all the same. Why not make each one like the past style.

lrodk

04-21-2002, 09:37 PM

A fresh set of pictures have been posted at WDWMagic.com. They include shots of the room's interior as well as up-close shots of many of the buildings.

http://www.wdwmagic.com/pop_century.htm

PKS44

04-21-2002, 10:02 PM

Well I looked at the pictures...and I don't get what all the complaining is about...They are cute! Just as cute as any of the All Stars...We stay at DVC but I don't feel like they have ruined the neighborhood like this thread and others have implied...as one who has been disappointed in a lot of company choices lately, I have no problem with this one...makes me wonder about the motives of the oh-so-vocal critics....

paradefreak

04-21-2002, 10:06 PM

I was NOT being sarcastic in my previous post in this thread. I like the look of the resort. I agree with another poster that said if you don't like it, don't stay there. I will go even further and say if you don't like it, then stop spending hours looking at photos of it on the internet and going on and on about how awful, tacky, blah, blah, blah it is. Just don't stay there and if you drive by it look the other way or close your eyes - unless you're driving that is.:p

I will stay at Pop Century. I like the colors, the phrases, the icons, all of it. I think it looks like a lot of fun. I think that if I stayed at the Grand Floridian or the like, I would be disappointed in comparison to my fun experiences at the All-Stars. If this makes me common or low class, then bring on the tater tots.

Another Voice

04-21-2002, 10:54 PM

How much fiberglass can you glue on before the EPA complains?

Face it, if these exact same buildings were out on International Drive and called “Zarby’s 20th Century Resort” these boards would be filled with sneers at the place and praise that WDW has a safe haven from monstrosities like this.

And if these exact same buildings showed up at Universal than people would be collecting up pitchforks and lighting torches as you read this.

Pop Century is the corporate equivalent of “my dog ate my homework”.

They know how to do better. It's an insult that they don't try.

Sandy Fisher

04-22-2002, 08:26 AM

Like the old expression, one man's junk is another man's treasure.........but I honestly can't imagine who this will appeal to. Poor Walt is probably spinning.
And I really find it hard to believe that any "imagineer" would take credit for this.
See what happens when words fail me??? I always find a few.:eek:

JustBob

04-22-2002, 11:11 AM

After reading months of vitriol concerning the new PC resort I finally got a chance to see the pictures today. I kinda like it. I'll really like it if the furnishings for each decade match that decade. I especially like the 3d constructions. I'm not a big fan of the cutouts, although it was fun to see a pacman on the side of a building eating dots.
I suspect this will be very successful. And to be honest, staying on Disney property is a pricey proposition. If this is a way they can offer less expensive rooms while still on property, then I think it's okay.
I do have to admit that I haven't seen how this has blighted the view from CBR. That might change my opinion somewhat, or maybe not.

larworth

04-22-2002, 01:47 PM

We’ve had plenty of discussions about the business merits (standards, brand, market share) of the way Disney has approached building value resorts. I have many of the above concerns, but let's assume these are the only raw materials these price points can afford and focus on the creative intent for a moment. Disney must have had a target demographic in mind. Not from an economic perspective, but from a “they will relate to it” perspective.

We have nostalgia for the older set, funky colors/giant icons for the younger set, and 3D characters (done is a completely different style than the rest?) for the kids. I’m definitely dazed by the look of it all. I’m just confused on the intent. A good mix of different touch points for all or just a hodge podge?

***

Someone once chided Suess Landing (IOA) as being a painter’s nightmare. You do worry about how these are going to age. There are also plenty of contexts Disney can use to do things on the cheap and have it fit a "supposed" theme. Why is nostalgia again linked with "gaudy and tacky” (Dino-rama and now PC)? At one time the past was usually romanticized. I guess I'm just being a little nostalgic, here.

Bstanley

04-22-2002, 05:22 PM

Well in all honesty if wasn't for the REALLY bright colors and the Gawd-awful cut-out phrases I guess I could be persuaded to stay there for an All Stars price.

The Giant characters/Yo-yo/Jukebox range from fine to ok, the funky furniture is a hoot (I'm sure that before they open they'll fill the 'fake' TV with an actual monitor), and the pictures/paintings look fine.

Perhaps before they open someone will come to their senses and ditch the cut-out phrases?

The Florida Sun will take care of the bright colors in a couple of years. As someone mentioned - has anyone seen the tops of the buildings in Seuss Landing lately...can you say "Ultraviolet Radiation"?... I knew you could. :-)

Luv2Roam

04-23-2002, 07:02 PM

It doesn't look as bad as I thought, but it's not great. But neither is ASSp, IMHO. I would happily stay at PC over ASSp. It's just a matter of personal taste.
If they would remove those dumb large slang sayings (that everyone was tired of YEARS ago :rolleyes: ) and changed some colors here and there, PC wouldn't be near as bad.
Having a room that is shown as the interior picture would make me feel I should be sitting at the table drinking cocoa and watching Romper Room. :p I like to feel like a kid again, but not that much regression! ;)
It's not a loss. They could easily salvage it and I hope they do.
Has Disney actually announced an opening date? I read a post on the resorts board that construction has stopped and a fence is being put up blocking it in. But we have all read that before.

Luv2Roam

04-23-2002, 07:15 PM

It's just too much overkill. The overall idea was cute. I like the characters, Lady, RR, Balloo
But those cut outs and words.... Even had there not been so many of them that would have helped.
All that *stuff* just looks like an oversized kid's messy room. :p

mkunichi

04-24-2002, 06:27 AM

I'm not saying that PS is art, but I can't help but be reminded of the outrage and confusion over successive generations of modern art. The arguments to me sound familiar - it's gaudy, it's not tasteful, it's overwhelming, it's simply ugly...it's not what I'm used to...it's not what a cheap motel is supposed to look like.

I think that staying there would be a step towards living in toontown. That has to be worth one trip!

As for those who say it's too derivative - hmm, that's not the right phrase - too much like what someone else might do outside the park, I say that it is original and much less derivative than many of my favorite resorts - you know, the tasteful ones that were mostly designed to duplicate a real experience from somewhere else - GF, Poly, WL, BC, BC, YC, BW, OKW, FW, CB, CS, PO.

The more I think about it, the more I like the idea of PC. Even the criticism is authentic.

-mark

That said, as a DVC'er, I'll see you at OKW.

Captain Crook

04-24-2002, 08:10 AM

What a great post! The modern art analogy is a very good one.

Also folks, let us remember (1) the resort IS NOT YET FINISHED and (2) The most objectionable items are easily changed. Disney will respond to the market place. If Pop is accepted as is there will be little change, if the overwhelming view of the 'taste police' here on the DIS becomes a salient point, expect to see changes...Pretty simple really.

:smooth: :smooth: :bounce: :smooth: :smooth:

Another Voice

04-24-2002, 11:45 AM

“Disney will respond to the market place”

Isn’t that the job of International Drive?

I thought Disney’s job was to exceed the market place. You know - creativity, quality, imagination.

Bstanley

04-24-2002, 01:57 PM

To quote Jack Nicholson - "two out of three ain't bad!" :-)

You could make an argument that PC has certainly 'exceeded' the marketplace in imagination and creativity. It is WAY beyond my imagination and it is creative (I've never seen anything like it - except those Purple/Pink 'Soap Hotels' in Japan ;-)...

But it still gives me Flashbacks whenever I look at it - so I won't be able to stay there. I guess if I weren't a product of the Sixties I might be OK with it... :-)

Distriv

04-24-2002, 03:40 PM

THE WORDS! THE GIANT IDIOTIC WORDS!!!!!!!!!!:eek: :eek: and:eek: again

marty3d

04-24-2002, 04:15 PM

You're right - it's the words - I just can't get past them. Everything else fits in - it's supposed to be larger than life.

Luckily, it's easier to just remove the words than to have to tear something down!

mkunichi

04-24-2002, 05:04 PM

My current least favorite aspects of PC:
1. They are rectangular, motel shaped buildings. I guess you can't avoid this without significantly increasing the construction costs.
2. The words. But I'd like to analyze this (probably because I like analyzing everything):

Is it the words themselves or is it their design. I think for me, it's the particular words themselves. I like their idea of including pop language into the design of the building. In fact, I like that it makes identifying and finding your building and room pretty easy - especially if they are brightly lit up at night - maybe they'll even use runway neon? (yes, i do enjoy torturing people).

Soooo... what would some good pop words be? Hmm. I'm drawing a blank so I'll keep thinking and post a followup.

d-r

04-25-2002, 04:09 PM

I remember that when I first heard rumors of the pop century and they first announced it, my thinking was that they were trying to find a way to expand all star movies. Think about it - of the three all stars, movies is most popular. Sports and movies are often used to house school groups of bands or teams or cheerleaders, wherease movies has been cut off the list of resorts with available discounts (while sports and music were discounted).

What I thought they were going to do was use the "decades" theming to drop in movie references from those decades - like the Roger Rabbit and Mowgli and Baloo in the pictures. I thought it was pretty smart too, because it sort of avoids the "problem" that have at all star movies of people preferring a given movie (such as toy story or dalmations).

I think that sort of thing would have been sort of cool, but that they went a little too far with it with pop century. There are some cute ideas at pop century - I am starting to like the giant monopoly board - but, like so many others, the stupid giant catch phrases kill me. I remember seeing "Do the Funky Chicken" in January and thinking how awful it was. The catch phrases just seem really, really dumb.

DR

ellyn2000

04-28-2002, 04:09 PM

I don't think it's any worse than any of the All Stars.

LoriZH

04-28-2002, 05:46 PM

that is EXACTLY what I was going to say, lol

Testtrack321

04-28-2002, 05:53 PM

It seems like I finaly saw the PC structure, and lucily the vegitation is growing back. The bad part is that it still looks awfull in person!

MikePezz

04-28-2002, 10:24 PM

Hopefully Uncle Mikey won't like the signage when he sees it. Maybe his micromanaging leanings will bring the removal of the stupid things.

kenjean

04-29-2002, 09:39 AM

I thought the unpainted buildings looked better than the finished ones.

Yay2001

04-29-2002, 12:41 PM

I feel a bit disloyal for mentioning this, but:

The similarities between this resort and the "Dr. Suess World" at Universal/IOA are immediately apparent. Anyone else notice this?

It seems like they are deliberately attempting to incorporate some of the themes from that park -- yet made over with Disney charecters, etc. But what is playful and approachable at IOA is jarring and off-putting here. Sad, really.

doubletrouble_vb

04-29-2002, 01:28 PM

Actually looking at the pictures I can't wait to wander around/walk through this resort...but I have as much desire to stay there as I would to have a room next to a casino floor.

And as for the paint...all you have to do is look at the red parts of boardwalk to know that this resort will fade in a flash.

cindyfan

04-29-2002, 06:19 PM

doubletrouble_vb.....
"...can't wait to wander around/....." Kinda like watching a bad accident...can't help but look at it!!!
There's red parts to the boardwalk??????

April76

04-29-2002, 11:13 PM

The giant toy and games icons and the "stuff" scattered all over the face of the buildings makes me think of my kids rooms when they need to be cleaned :eek: ........it's just a bunch of ugly clutter!

They could do away with all the junk and landscape it nicely and keep the character icons and make it a nice Disney family resort where you can see some of your favorite Disney movie characters........... ;)

I Luv Disney Cruise

04-30-2002, 01:12 PM

there are some positive remarks out there.

I think the resort looks fine. The idea was to have a theme after the last century right? Well all of the last century wasn't pretty roses, sayings and colors. There were outgoing colors and sayings that went around. All Disney did was go with a theme and stuck with it.

I plan on staying at the resort.

Of course there will always be resorts from some and not others.

Not trying to step on any toes, but, I agree with some previous posts. If you don't like the resort then why are you wasting your time looking at the pictures and complaining? Just move on...:confused:

jrgutknecht

04-30-2002, 01:20 PM

Well, to quote someone I once heard "They have made a terrible choice, but executed it flawlessly"

I think it's amazing how they can build this kind of stuff and the detail that goes into it. You really have to give credit to the construction crews for fleshing out (in such great detail) a really bad idea.

How this ever got off the drawing board, I'll just never understand.

dove643

05-01-2002, 09:34 AM

roymccoy

05-01-2002, 11:22 AM

I think your missing our point. Disney's plan is to "lower the bar" with Pop Century. It's not just another value resort on par with the AllStars, it's a whole new direction for the company...that direction is DOWN. Pop Century will be considered the new "value" resort. All-stars will be the new "moderate" tier of resort and PO/FQ, POR, CBR,etc. will kick up to a "deluxe" resort status. This all comes down to money and greed. They could have built Pop Century up to (I can't believe I'm saying this) the AllStars standards and called them all "value" resorts, but Disney needs to thin the herd a little. This is all a well orchestrated plan to seperate the traveller from even more of their money.

Right now, you can get a room at AllStars for about $69-89. Moderates are $109-169. Pop Century will obviously be priced in the $49-69 range right?... because it's not as good as All-Stars?? WRONG! Pop Century will become the new value resort at the $69-89 price range. All-Stars wiil go to $89-139 and be called moderate and the moderate resorts will go to a quasi-deluxe status at $149-up. Just when you think Disney has ran out of room at the bottom end of their plan, they go and build a basement...and you know how stupid it is to build a basement in Florida!

Roy

raidermatt

05-01-2002, 11:38 AM

If you dont like it, quit looking and talking about it. Maybe it's not your style but for someone who can't afford $200 a night it's going to be a great place to stay. It's going to be a heck of alot better then a Motel 6.. or maybe thats your style!

Think of all of the wonderful things Disney has created. Now, honestly, can you really say you think this was the best, most creative thing they could come up with for a value resort? When you think of Disney Magic, do you really think of the Funky Chicken?

The problem isn't that there are value resorts. I have no problem with the All-Stars.

Better than Motel 6? Is THAT your standard for Disney now? As long as the parks are better than Six Flags, the hotels better than Motel 6, and the service better than Wal-Mart, its ok? All most of us are saying is that Pop Century could have been better, without raising the price.

As for not looking at it, that seems to be a little difficult, unless they are going to surround it with pine trees or a dome.

space42

05-01-2002, 12:10 PM

I honestly believe that the buildings looked better without the "decorations".
I like the idea that Disney is building a lower cost alternative for people that cannot afford to pay $200+ on a hotel room (like me). Why does inexpensive have to come along with "tacky"? It would be nice if Disney could build a lower cost hotel room that is not decorated with "catch phrases" and huge bowling pins.

Something else to ponder. The cheapest place to stay on WDW property is Ft. Wilderness (~$30 per night). Granted you would be staying in a tent or camper. However, there is NOTHING tacky or cheap about Ft. Wilderness. The theeming of the buildings is on par with Frontierland in the MK. No oversized icons or bright primary colors here. 1st Class all the way. Even boat transportation to the MK!

I don't believe current Disney will build like this again though :rolleyes:

All Aboard

05-01-2002, 12:16 PM

roymcoy, I don't think that's the strategy at all. Initially when PC was booking, it was priced exactly the same as the All Stars. It was classified on the website in the same value category. I don't think there is any reason for that to change. It will have the same room size and layout and the same level of amenities (which are few) as the All Stars. I doubt it will be priced any differently.

Besides, WDW has had to offer significant discounts to keep the All Stars filled the last three years (same has been true for the rest of the property.) What would cause you to think that the prices for the All Stars could rise once another 5,760 value rooms come into inventory?

I'd bet that there is no pricing differential between PC and All Stars.

I Luv Disney Cruise

05-01-2002, 01:49 PM

There isn't going to be any modifications on the classifications of value, moderate, etc. Everything is going to stay the same and Pop Century is added to the value.

DC7800

05-01-2002, 08:04 PM

I've heard several people say that Pop Century would be priced below All-Stars, but I believe this was nothing more than speculation on their part. Certainly rooms booked there previously were at All-Star rates.

Of course, should annual price increases continue as in years past, in perhaps 5-10 years the All-Star Resorts really would be priced where standard rooms at the moderate resorts are today.

roymccoy

05-01-2002, 10:50 PM

I guess I should have said that this is what's coming next, not that it is a plan that they are implementing right now. I think that this is part of a long range plan to knock all of the resorts down a notch. I think that EVENTUALLY Pop Century and resorts like it will be considered "value" and All-Stars will be the new "moderate" classification. The moderates that exist now, ie POR, POFQ, CBR,CS,etc,
will be moved up to a "lower priced deluxe". I remember when Wilderness Lodge was considered a moderate but now it is classified as a deluxe. They can also "upsell" to Wilderness Lodge from a moderate even though it used to be a moderate! My point was that I believe that Disney is trying to add a couple of price points and unfortunately, they're at the bottom. You mark my words, in a couple of years Port Orleans will be a deluxe, All-Stars will be a moderate and Pop Century will be a value. Why else would they build a hotel that is inferior to All-stars when it's supposed to be in the same classification? Get ready to be hood-winked again!

Roy

ASFCurly

05-01-2002, 11:14 PM

Honestly, I think of the All-Stars and PC as the same. The first time that I saw pictures of the All-Stars, I was jared, I really didn't like them, but I have gotten used to them now, and don't mind them. It took a while to get used to the All-Stars, but now that I am, it has taken a lot less time to get used to PC, the first time I saw pictures I wasn't too sure, now, I honestly don't see that much of a difference between them, the colors might be a little brighter, but I like that.

All Aboard

05-02-2002, 10:41 AM

Roy, how is PC inferior to AS? They are decorated differently (and in many people's opinion, uglier). But, other than that, there's no difference.

Was the Wilderness Lodge ever sold in the SAME category as CBR, PO & DxL??? I'll have to pull out my old Magic Kingdom Club annual pamphlets, because that's one I cannot remember. The Wilderness Lodge differs from the moderates in many ways. Interior hallways, balconies, multiple full-service restaurants. I don't think it was ever priced the same as the moderates.

The market drives the price of resorts, not Disney's whim. If the public perceives PC and AS to be interchangable, WDW won't be able to price AS higher.

Disney built three moderates after CBR, each has smaller rooms and fewer pools. Yet, WDW didn't raise the price of CBR and push the other moderates into a seperate category. Why not? The public views the resorts as virtually the same in most respects. That's why WL & AKL are priced the same. Same sized rooms, same level of amenities. Same for YC/BC/BWI.

Sure, I'll "mark your words" now, but it ain't gonna happen.

Galahad

05-02-2002, 11:57 AM

WL was never a moderate. We stayed there the first year it was open. The room rates were slightly lower than the other deluxe resorts but higher than the moderates. It might have been a promotional rate. Further, WL is unquestionably in the same league as YC/BC, the Poly etc. as far as quality and amenities.

roymccoy

05-02-2002, 11:35 PM

I own Disney stock, I have AP's to DL and DCA, I've got no reason to bash Disney I just think that Pop Century is
a monstrosity. It is a tacky Holiday Inn. If this is the best that Disney can do, we're in BIG trouble. I would rather stay at Whiskey Pete's on the California/Nevada border. To tell you the truth, I would rather stay off-site at WDW than stay at that waste of space. If Pop Century and Dinoland is Disney's (and our) future, we're in big trouble.

Roy

smjj

05-03-2002, 02:47 AM

Who allowed this cheap,cheesy,guady place to be built? Has Disney really gone this far downhill?? What were they thinking?The pictures tell it all. Walt is turning over in his grave right now thinking how his dream has turned into a nightmare as far as new ideas are concerned...smjj

iNTeNSeBLue98

05-03-2002, 06:24 AM

I don't have time to read everyone else's posts right now, but I did read a debate once before about the themeing of Pop Century. Here's my opinion after seeing the pictures posted in this thread.

I like the icons and the theming, but those words are obnoxious. We loved the All-Stars and had considered staying at PC, sight-unseen. What is Disney thinking with the phrases strewn along the top of the lodges?

peedeejones

05-04-2002, 11:53 PM

Those pictures are horrifying. I think I am going to have nightmares tonight!!!

Jen

mum4jenn

05-05-2002, 10:58 AM

It is a way of preserving our past.Plain and simple the colors they are using WERE the colors that were around then. The slang words being used WERE the ones being used around then. The icons that they are using WERE around then. I was born in 1961.... I remember some of the stuff from the 60's and even I did not like some of the stuff back then I still do not like them now.( Like the current clothes fashions..... Most of the junk being sold in the stores now was ugly in the 60's and to me is still ugly now.) However it is a part of our PAST. Kids today will get a good laugh out of the things we used to say in the 60's,70's and 80's and so will their kids get a good laugh out of the things they said and did in the 90's!!!!!!!!!!
I look forward to seeing the slang and the styles of MY parents generation.My parents were born in 1921 and 1922. My mom is still living and I am sure these rooms will bring back both fond and sad memories for her. Staying at these places will be like a mini History lesson.I am SURE that many families will find it a challenge to go to Disney 10 times in order to stay in a different era each visit. Yes alot of the things (the slang wording esp) are considered tacky but like it or not they ARE a part of history whether you were alive then or not. The type style and the colors are what were used then. Now MAYBE they could have presented the slang in a different way(such as on one wall or room dedicated to that era) but this is the way for it to get noticed and truly be a part of the resort.!!!!!!

Will my family stay there???? Maybe ..maybe not. When we go we usually camp at Fort Wilderness. We love to camp and that is why we do it that way. We have stayed at All Stars,at Moderates,and at Deluxe but we prefer Ft Wilderness. We might give Pop a try just to say been there done that and to show my young dd what it was like "way back in the dark ages"

Is Pop Century a fiasco?NO I do not think so. Now if you want to talk about fiasco and FLOPS......how about those AWFUL granite things at Epcot where you are supposed to have you picture on them??? These are U-G-L-Y!!!! Do you ever wonder if the idiot that came up with the idea still works for Disney or not?????!!!!!!!!!!

cindyfan

05-05-2002, 11:45 AM

."....they ARE a part of history..."...........
Oh come on!!! What part of the slang will be in your child's history booK??? :confused:

I was born in 1958 and I never talked like that ! Not in the 60's, not in the 70's and not in the 80's!!
It was SLANG! And I think only a small percentage of the population really talked like that and to be perfectly honest....everyone I knew thought most of it was rude and disrespectful to talk slang like that.

I am not being a snob. :rolleyes: I come from a blue-collar, hard-working family...we had values and grew up respecting each other.
There is no way I feel this is part of "history"!!

The Icons such as the bowling pin and Juke box do represent part of the era. I also like the Disney Icons....Lady and the Mowgli.....

BUT those catch phrases....GOT TO GO! YUK! :eek:

mum4jenn

05-05-2002, 12:04 PM

When I wrote that they are a part of our history I was not referring to American History that is in the history books.I do not believe I have ever used any of those slang terms either but they STILL are a part of our past. There are alot of things and people that are a part of our history that will never be in a History book.Give ME a break!!!! History or popculture..... they happened or were said even if we ALL did not do them or say them.

Chuck S

05-05-2002, 12:47 PM

To me it looks similar to All Stars, but I think PC looks a little nicer. I should think that the exterior would be fairly high maintenance - lots of painting to keep the colors fresh. Maybe WDW has a contract with the architect for several hotels? I hope not.

Pigglets-pal

05-05-2002, 03:04 PM

We love CBR. We go every year for the last 11 years. We love it for its tropical theming. On our last trip lesss than three weeks ago walking toward Trinidad from Martinique we could clearly see the stupid bowling pins and the tops of the words on many of the buildings. CBR has natural beauty but this fiberglass monstrosity next door is so depressing. I am not alone in this. We heard this from many people at CBR whil walking on the sidewalk numerous times.What is Disney thinking puting this aweful place next to a picture perfect place as CBR.If this is being priced as a "moderate" then you got be kidding. We are extremly "open minded" people too and willing to try it anything once......but this was just way too much. I clicked on the link of the original poster (and thank you for doing this) and I couldnt believe how ugly the colors are in the rooms themselves.I am new to these boards and I love it here and LOVE everything Disney.....Except this. A 5 story brick wall surrounding CBR would greatly help this aweful sight and restore the tropical setting of CBR. Whats next in pop century Polyester bedspreads, curtains etc.......sheesh.:mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad:

smjj

05-05-2002, 03:17 PM

It has the look of a cheaply done hotel done by someone who is color blind. It just looks cheap, its location drags down the CBR as others here have mentioned. It just does not have the look or feel of what I have come to or use to expect from Disney. I sometimes wonder if all the layoff WDW has had were all the imagineers and the ones they kept are right of of college with no idea of what Walt's dream was. I think M. Isener or whoever is now more interested in a quick buck and doing things on the cheap has forgotten what got them to where they are(or were)...smjj

I Luv Disney Cruise

05-05-2002, 05:06 PM

This thread is so depressing for all the complaining. :(

Of course everyone one is entitled to an opinion.

Don't we all get the point now, let's move on to better subjects.

mum4jenn: I agree with every word that you wrote, but I am going to move on and read things that are up lifting and positive.:D

Testtrack321

05-05-2002, 05:38 PM

God, if you think this is depressing, wait till you read the other threads here.

EUROPA

05-05-2002, 10:03 PM

Must have came from the community boad...you can't say a bad word against Disney over there. ;)

ztbz

05-09-2002, 11:02 PM

I was told that Pop Centry is Ready to open, the only thing Disney has to do is to buy the TV Sets for each of the rooms, No word as to when it will open. Possible opening between July to X-mas this year.

Luv2Roam

05-10-2002, 11:50 AM

Ya know -- All this makes me evn more curious and want to stay there to check out this eyesore up close and personal. ;)
Kinda like a bad accident -- you HAVE to look! :jester:
I am hoping to catch some glimpses of it later this month. But now I am just TOO curious to see the end result!

luvindisneyworld

05-10-2002, 06:43 PM

can anyone say KIDS, i think that kids will love PC.and for staying at the all stars we were there in april at ASM and had a blast there were 4 adults and we really enjoyed staying there and will go and stay there again. we are dvc members now but would stay at all stars anytime. will defineitly stay at PC next year if they are open then. i myself think that kids have a much better time at the all stars than at any other resort at disney. going in sept to OKW, and my little DS wanted to stay at the all stars but had to many going so had to get a GV.

cindyfan

05-10-2002, 06:57 PM

Even if my kids would like to stay there...........
Just the thought that they might come back home saying......."Fer Shur!" Or "Groovy" Or "Wazzup?" Or "Get Real!" "YO!" "As If!"

OMG!!!!! I just couldn't handle that !!:eek:

Doctor P

05-11-2002, 05:56 AM

Interesting pictures. Very much in line with All Stars. I actually think I like it (in a perverse sort of way!;))

Planogirl

05-11-2002, 11:02 PM

My 8 year old son would gladly stay anywhere at WDW. However, we stayed at the Allstars last year and he asked if we could go back to the Poly. We had some trouble with transportation which even affected him and then he saw the volcano pool. He also LOVES the monorail. So you never know. :rolleyes:

Mom B

05-11-2002, 11:32 PM

The pictures remind me a little bit of those puppies...you know
the ones that are so UGLY they're actually CUTE? But really,
I think the bright colors and 60's decor are kind of cute and
kicky...of course, I just bought a vintage Barbie house last summer
that looked just like the rooms pictured! "Whimsical," you might
say. What the heck, variety is the spice of life!

Mom B

05-11-2002, 11:42 PM

Oh, and, my apologies to Swan/Dolphin fans, but...in my family's
opinion, they are the UGLIEST things on Disney property. Never
had any interest in staying there, never will! I think I'd try PC
first! But that's the beauty of it...to each his own. Disney has
something for everybody! Peace and love, brothers and sisters!

nigel-bigel

05-13-2002, 09:02 AM

I've never dropped acid before, but I have a feeling that Pop Century is what it would be like.

I'm not being funny, it really looks like a very "bad trip".

I can't beleive this is the best Disney could do. How dissappointing...

Nicole

dove643

05-13-2002, 09:40 AM

how disappointing that all of you can be so critical.... no one says that any of you have to stay there so stop complaining about it.

dove643

05-13-2002, 09:49 AM

Does anyone in the forum know how to say anything nice?????? GEEZ!!!!!!:bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc

nigel-bigel

05-13-2002, 09:58 AM

I can say a lot about WDW that is nice. I can't stop saying nice things about the Boardwalk Inn, for example. The parks are just wonderful - magical, if you will. The level of service provided by the CMs is a delight - you always feel welcome (well, usually anyway).

These photos of PC are just awful. They look like something a high-school student would come up with for a school project. And we talk about it because if this is the best Disney can come up with, then this place that most of us love, and many of us have invested in, is showing signs of trouble.

To paraphrase my friend's grandmother, "We come from love!"

Nicole

lecach

05-13-2002, 10:39 AM

I read this thread before I left for WDW on May 4. I thought ya'll were being overly critical. I was WRONG. That place is SO bad. We saw it on our way to AK I think. How tacky. What in the world were they thinking? We didnt even know what some of the sayings meant - we had never heard them before. I would stay there if the rate was really really good and I was on a budget. But it would be my last choice at WDW.

Another Voice

05-13-2002, 02:13 PM

“Does anyone in the forum know how to say anything nice??????”

It would be a little easier if Disney would make the effort to build something worth complimenting.

Frankly, “if you don’t like it – don’t stay there” doesn’t work as a standard of excellence.

luvindisneyworld

05-13-2002, 02:59 PM

i totally agree if you dont like just dont stay there. i see no problem with it myself, but my goodness it isonly a place to lay your head down and sleep.i personally would pick the AS over the other resorts just because the only reason i am ever in the room is to sleep and shower,and cant see paying some of the prices people pay to stay at thr other resorts. we are dvc owners and still love the value resorts and will continue staying at them.some people are only able to visit disney because of the value resorts and i think it is ashame that people have such negative things to say about them, just be thankful that you have a place like disneyworld to come to and enjoy, misty

Testtrack321

05-13-2002, 03:34 PM

Yet again, if something like this was built now, what will happen latter in the parks or another hotel?

All Aboard

05-13-2002, 03:56 PM

some people are only able to visit disney because of the value resortsIt's not about affordability. I'm a big proponent of the Value resorts for that very reason. It's about imagination and aesthetics.
and i think it is ashame that people have such negative things to say about themWhy?
just be thankful that you have a place like disneyworld to come to and enjoyI am very thankful. I'm just concerned about what this resort says about the direction Walt Disney World is headed.

Cybele

05-13-2002, 05:03 PM

This is a discussion board people just because you like or dislike something doesn't give you the right to tell the oposite opinions to be quiet.
Me I like to read all the good and bad about something, that way I can get a informed opinion about it.
If the folks that don't like PC want to say why, they have every right to and vice-versa so stop telling folks to "shut up" otherwise this discussion board would be awfully lonely!:p

Personaly I think PC is gross but I do not like All Stars either and I have no kids, and that I think that is the main point. I do think kids will love it and ultimatly I think it is for them and not for us big kids!
I do think it could be much better without the catch phrases though.
Yes it would be nice to have a nicer, less bizarre value resort but I am a DVC member so I can stay at the nicer ones and not worry about the PC or AS since I have no intention of staying at them.
So folks lets let everyone have their say, if you don't agree that's fine but you can't tell someone to not have their opinion, that is worse than having your kids start saying "Fer Sure".
Cheers:smooth:

Bstanley

05-14-2002, 08:32 AM

Fer shure Cybele! :-)

Cybele

05-14-2002, 02:15 PM

Yuck, like gag me with a spoon!:D

Testtrack321

05-14-2002, 04:44 PM

Agree, we have oppinions, that's why this thread now has around 100 posts on it! Sure, we are glad we have WDW to go to, but god, if in 20 years it's going to end up like PC, you can find me at Universal! Plus, you should stop "sweeping" this under the rug, by saying the other 99% of WDW is good. Look at JIYI, and now PC.

Cybele

05-14-2002, 05:01 PM

Sorry I'm not up on all my abbreviated terms, which is that?
Thanks

DC7800

05-14-2002, 05:10 PM

JIYI was Journey into Your Imagination.

Also known as Journey into Your (lack of) Imagination. :)

RweTHEREyet

05-22-2002, 01:55 PM

I really don't thing they are any more ugly or unatractive than I thought AllStars was when I first saw it, and I have stayed at AllStars on many an occasion. I am sure I will stay at PopCentury too, just to see what it is all about.

I have heard that once Pop Century opens that AllSTars will be used for large groups, such as the cheerleaders, the FIRST competition, etc. that they often have and Pop Century for all other guests. This would make sense to me as it is no fun staying where these large groups are if you arne ot part of the group.

All Aboard

05-22-2002, 03:29 PM

RweTHEREyet, I heard it was the other way around (groups at Pop.) The proximity to Wide World of Sports makes it perfect for the teams.

Gagebre

05-29-2002, 11:01 AM

I really like all of it and can't wait to stay there! I just wish they would open it this year.

year2late

05-31-2002, 07:21 PM

Well I just showed the pictures to my 8 year old and he assured me that was where we NEEDED to stay. I can't help but think other kids are going to fall head over heals for it.

plutospup

06-03-2002, 05:28 AM

Passed by PC last week. The first thing that caught my eye was the word "DUH!" The resort is brightly colored, and I'm sure it will attract many guest, however, I won't be one.

Captbligh

06-09-2002, 08:23 PM

To all of you who have spent all your time "dissing" PC, get ready to eat your words. This resort has attracted lots of attention, and not from just us"ordinary folk" - but from those in power in the entertainment industry who realize it's true potential. A certain CBS reality show will be using PC as it's next locale. It will be entitled "SURVIVOR - Pop Century". Contestants will have ungodly challanges such as: 1) rapelling up and down the giant bowling pin 2) figuring out and actually trying to do the "funky chicken" 3) eating a gourmet meal and trying to keep it down after entering one of the hideously decorated guest rooms 4) trying NOT to cry as they are shuttled past other Disney resorts and then brought back to PC. The winner of each challange will be rewarded by having their room moved one step closer to the exit to the hotel. We can only pray for them!
Also, maybe a movie sequel will be filmed here. "The Shining 2" in which Danny's (who is grown now) grandson Davey stays here, and as he rides the giant "Big Wheel" throughout the property is constantly confronted with the eerie words - "ETSAT DAB". What could this mean?
:D :jester:

Planogirl

06-10-2002, 03:13 AM

Captbligh, I might watch that one. Too bad it's not on ABC. ;)

My son can fall anywhere he wants to but we're not staying at PC. I'll make sure that he enjoys himself in spite of that. ;)

lucky_bunni

09-07-2003, 10:46 PM

I have to say, I stayed at the All Star Music Resort last year and I wasn't disappointed. I don't feel that there is anything more guady about the Pop Century Resort than the other All Stars. It takes up a new theme, one that has a lot of material to work with. I think it's a lot larger too. I agree with some of you who said that it will appeal to kids, and it will. Think how wonderful it would be to be a child and get to STAY in something like this. To most children it would probably be more exciting than staying at Grand Floridian.

My boyfriend, however, was slighty disappointed with the All Star. He had visited WDW before when he was younger, but never on property. His complaints had little to do with the resort, but more with the guests we had as neighbors for the week. Not all of the people, but most, I hate to admit.. were somewhat trashy staying at the resort. I guess thats what you have to deal with when you can't stay in a deluxe... but some of us don't have that kind of dough at this point in our lives and for my buck the All Stars are more than satisfactory. Although, on my other visits, I've stayed at Fort Wilderness Campground with my family, and would prefer that over staying in a value resort. These is just something about FW!

TiNkErBeLl51

09-09-2003, 07:43 PM

:eek: :eek: :eek: :eek:

OMG! who ever designed it must be color blind...and yes the words guady and horrific do come to mind. The colors actually hurt the eyes, but if DISNEY wanted an eye-cathcer, well they certainly got one...just not in a good way. o well...hopefully when it comes time for remodeling in the yeras to come the colors will be changed to actually MATCH. :bounce:

candylover

09-24-2003, 12:35 AM

I am almost afraid to say anything after reading all the posts....
But... I can't wait to go with my Dh and 3 kids!!!!:Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc
Yes.. it is loud but heck we are on VACATION!:p
FUN! FUN!FUN!
Upbeat guys!!! Maybe it wouldn't be my choice if I didn't have children..
Come on there is enough upsetting things going on.... just go read some of the posts asking for prayers.:(
Just think YOU ARE GOING TO DISNEY:Pinkbounc Do you know how lucky you are:confused: You don't like it...don't stay there.
But please....enough bringing everyone else down.
There is something for everyone in Disney and no one should feel that they are staying at a "LOW" quality resort.
Ok, just my 2 cents... please be nice to me:rolleyes:

montessori

09-24-2003, 09:47 AM

I think Pop Century is gaudy and tacky. The HUGE words that you can see from the road are the worst part of it..."WAZZUP" etc...

We'll be staying there in December before we check into The Boardwalk! ;)
The price can't be beat and it will be new, so I figured we'd give it a try. We've never stayed in a value resort, but the location of PC works for us too.

crystalb

09-25-2003, 06:30 AM

We have stayed at the values, mods and a deluxe. I have had just as good of stays at AS as I have at other WDW resorts. (Actually better service at AS all the way around over the two mods we stayed.)
We are splitting our January stay with 4 nights at PC. Mostly because of it being new. The lake sounds like a nice perk. :)
If it wasn't for those awful letters on top of the buildings, it does not sound like a bad resort at all, so far. Guess I just won't look up! ;)

And FYI -- we are two middle aged adults. :) Our kids stay in a kennel when we are at WDW. ;)
Also, we are park people and spend very little time at the resort.
At WL we did spend more time there because it was handy, nice and escaped the heat for a few hours. ;)
If I planned on spending any real time at a resort I would not want to stay at a value.

sters

09-28-2003, 02:12 PM

I wasn't a huge fan of the All Stars when they went up, but they weren't nearly as tacky in real life, especially the ASMo, and my kids LOVED it! But, I have to say this Pop Century seems to have crossed the line into the truly tacky and unbecoming of Disney. It sure would be nice to have a value priced resort that had a nice theme without being... shall we say "garish?"

And, while we're at it, it would be fabulous for families of 5 to have a reasonably priced place to stay besides one small section of POR! Larger families need the break more than smaller families, but the World is geared to families of 4. Oh well.

sters

09-28-2003, 02:23 PM

"Oh, and my apologies to Swan/Dolphin fans, but...in my family's opinion, they are the UGLIEST things on Disney property."

The Swan and Dolphin weren't built and aren't run by Disney. The problem with these new eyesores is that Disney is responsible for them.

OnWithTheShow

09-28-2003, 04:09 PM

Disney had final approval of the plans for the Swan and Dolphin. And I agree that they are FAR worse than Pop Century.

TiNkErBeLl51

09-28-2003, 04:38 PM

Yes they are by far worse than POP Century...at first my mom thought the dolphin was a misshappen fish until i told her it was the Dolphin Hotel..LOL.

Planogirl

09-28-2003, 10:05 PM

I wonder why they put fish on the Dolphin instead of dolphins? I think that the building would have been far more attractive if the fish weren't on it. I otherwise like the buildings but they shouldn't have been placed so close to WS. They are a rather jarring sight seen from Epcot.

MiaSRN62

09-29-2003, 06:06 AM

I wonder why they put fish on the Dolphin instead of dolphins? I think that the building would have been far more attractive if the fish weren't on it.
Hi Planogirl. I thought the same thing several years ago, until it was brought to my attention that this was not supposed to be the "traditional" dolphin that most people recognize----> i.e. the mammal version. Rather, it is the dolphin "fish" or mahi mahi. Check this out : http://www.sea-ex.com/fishphotos/dolphin.htm