POR Riverside...not what I expected although nice

[DMRick]

Just back, late last night from Riverside. We got room 1434, which was great...near parking, and the foodcourt, and just a walk over the bridge to the main pool. Not far from a "quiet" (although hardly that) pool. We had faxed in requests, although upon check in was told they never get them upfront. We couldn't get building 18, although she said they had rooms in 14, even though it is usually for handicapped. I said we would take another, but she said this was fine, since people needing the handicapped were all taken care of. Our room was a regular room. We got second floor, but she said unless I knew of a specific corner room, she couldn't help, since she didn't know what they were. We were very happy with the location of our room.The room size, IMO (no tape measure with me), was just not that much different than the Allstars. We had five in the room (and have had the same with a small child, at AS). The bathroom was downright tiny, impossible to get a child dressed by an adult, unless on stood in the tub. Two sinks were nice. The sink area was bigger than AS, but would have been more useful with a curtain across it. I would never stay in POR, just to get a larger room..since after several stays in AS, we didn't see but a hairs difference. The building is a non smoking building, but they had some ashtrays in the "balcony" corridor. I wish smokers would not pick that builing, as we often walked through clouds of smoke..especially in the mornings as the smokers sat on the steps, or leaned on the bacony to have that cigarrette. Butts were often tossed over and some were still burning. The smoke was "held" in on the "porches" so we got to walk through the smell/smoke to our stairs. I would not get a second floor there again..I would rather be able to just step off the porch area, rather than go past the smokers. Not a good way for someone with asthma to start the day.

A lot is said on these boards about the Dis magic. Although we loved the shade at POR (it was hot last week), I just didn't see anything Disney about it compared to AS theming. We got some cute wash cloth ducks, etc from our maid (who did a great job all week), but other than tiny Mickey's on our bedspread, and a Disney character on our shower curtain and Disney soap, there was no theming. I would hate to drive in each morning, so POR is a big plus for being close...but if money was a concern, then I would stay off site, or AS.

The large pool was a diappointment...you can no longer go under the bridge..they have this awful white lattice covering both sides as well as boards covering the stairs (looks terrible in pictures), so you can't go up above on that bridge, or cross over in that spot). The pools were as full of screaming kids as the AS pools..one of the things we had hoped would be a little different (we thought less kids since so many head for AS with kids). Not that I blame the kids, and it was hot..and we brought two of own screaming kids to add to the noise. Just had read on these boards about how much less "kid" bustle at POR..not true...at least not last week. I really wish smoking would have designated areas at the pool, as it was very muggy, and the smoke just hung in the area. We moved several times, but seemed to always land next to smokers. Butts were often on the ground..you had to watch your bare feet. It was often hard to find a lounge close to the pool, so we could watch kids..so often we had 2 lounges for five people.

The food court was the biggest surprise. The food is just about the same as AS! We had heard so much abotu the food, we were surprised that it was the same stuff. We liked the food at both places. I was surprised at the constant mess at POR. The drink counter seems harder to keep clean (and they hope to change that soon, I was told by some work people looking it over..one said they learned some things since they built other hotels). There is no mug sink (but one coming in about 6 months, when they refurbish the area), no room for napkins on the long lengths, and no great little disposal area's by the refill staion for your garbage. So many people just use the cold water spigot to clean mugs, getting hot chocolate and sticky soda all over, and leave garbage on the counter. The floor around it was always sticky (gosh, with so many young kids helping themselves with no parents, I don't see how they could keep up with it), and the food court itself, although hugh, was always packed at mealtimes. Often the smell of burnt toast was in the air....people seem to not be able to read the toasters signs..you are not suppose to put large foods in the toaters..and we got to see why. One persons muffin caught on fire. She thought it was rather funny. It did finally put itself out. Disney must go through a lot of those large toasters.

I can't comment on the restaraunt, since we didn't use it. It looked nice. Lobby was big, and very nice looking.

We are staying in French Quarter (they wouldn't let us visit it) in August..just hubby and I. Theming won't mean as much to us, at it did to our grands this trip...and hubby really loves the shade (which I hope is as abundant at FQ as at Riverside). After a visit to AS movies, we did agree with our daughter and grands, that the next rip with them will be at an AS or Pop Century, for some cute theming (and we couldn't believe how much construction is done over there compared to our trip in January..wow..4 floors each building!). Although is was nice to try something new, for them, it was no different from staying at any hotel....it was not noticeably a "Disney" experience. We didn't do the caravan in the mornings, so nothing much Dis popped out at us.

[WALT PENN]

Riverside is well themed.The theme is the old south.

[jaguar9748]

Sorry you didn't enjoy your stay as much as you expected. I would definitely send an email to Disney regarding the smoking issues at Building 14. I'm staying in FQ for 1 night on May 31st so I'll be sure to post on my return - I'm excited. I love POR and have been by FQ many times, but have never stayed there! :)

[DMRick]

Riverside is well themed.The theme is the old south.

Let me correct what I said/meant (I just assumed that people would know I meant themed in Disney..but you know what they say about those who assume). I don't consider it well themed for Disney...yes, it is well themed for the Old South. However there are lots of hotels with theming in the Orlando area. With our children, the Old South meant nothing. They prefer the Disney theming, such as the All Stars have.


I'm sure many, many people will love POR, just as it's set up. Our grandchildren have real excitement when we stay at the AS..and when we visited it this week (movies), they asked if we will be going back to the Disney hotels...so apparently, they want the "real" Disney theming. We could have been staying at any "themed" hotel..on or off site...when we stayed at POR. Very nice, but not "Disney" in our opinions. Many times people ask about staying on site, and cost...what I meant was, if cost was a factor, I just didn't think you got a "Disney" feel at POR...I wasn't implying it wasn't a nice hotel. They also were very short of help (we were told that, when purchasing in the store and the lines were long, or at the food court, and although the CM's were very nice, it was no different than any non Disney hotel we have stayed in.

[Luvtomickey]

Its to bad you didn't enjoy your stay we've stayed at both AS and POR and would never stay at AS again. We love the themeing at POR and feel its a much more relaxed environment overall. There are several side pools at POR, if you don't want all the kids they seem to be quieter. I am curious why won't they let you go over or under the bridge at the pool anymore? We were there in Oct. and this wasn't in place then.

[DMRick]

Its to bad you didn't enjoy your stay

I did enjoy my stay. I just commented on what I found there. Even my title says, not what I expected, although nice. We did try a couple of "quiet" pools..they weren't quiet. It was hot, and lots of people were swimming. I understood, if we went over to the Mansion area, it was much quieter. My grands did want to spend some time at the slide..and since the AS didn't have a slide, that was something extra for us...so we didn't want to be at the "quiet" pools the whole time. I was surprised the quiet pools didn't have the Disney theming in the middle as the AllStar Sports quiet pool did...it was a very plain pool.

I don't know why the bridge was blocked..and I would think Disney could find a nicer way to block it.

You are right..it is a very nice resort, much like nice non Disney resorts we have stayed at...and we (adults) are staying at FQ in August. However, the grandkids much preferred the Allstars and Disney theming.

[eeyore0062]

What a shame that you didn't enjoy PO-R. The theming is wonderful there, but if you are expecting "over the top theming" such as is found at AS resorts, I guess you might be disappointed (especially the kids). My DD has never stayed in AS, and since we aren't overjoyed with the resort, she has to make due with the theming at the moderate resorts.

As for the room size, there really is a difference of about 40 sq feet, but I guess it would seemed cramped with 5 people, no matter what. As for the size of the bathrooms, they are equal to most on property, unless you stay at the Contemporary or Polynesian. The only resort I can think of with a curtain across the sink area is CBR.

As for the food court, AS has a nice food court, but PO-R outshines all of the other moderate food courts, by far!

Of course the pools will be loud...many kids...even the quiet pools are pretty loud.

As for smoking, I agree... if a guest wants to smoke, they should ask for a smoking optional building... not a non smoking building. It is just plain rude to stand in the outside corridors and smoke while others have to walk through it. It may be outside, but the smell and smoke can easily get in the rooms when the doors are opened. Perhaps they need to make more buildings smoking optional, so smokers don't feel the need to stay in a smoke free building. I know that some will say they don't want to sleep in a room with smoke, but want to smoke outside...well, that is fine, but take it 25 feet from the building, and please don't litter. We no smokers don't want to walk through the smoke, or see the cigarette butts around what we thought was a non smoking area. And many have physical conditions that being around smoke aggravates.

Anyway, hope you enjoy PO-FQ better... that is where we are staying in the fall.

[married2grumpy]

We have yet to stay at POR but would like to try it someday. We have stayed at ASMO and the Polynesian. I think with smaller children they relate to the ASMO theme better than the other resorts. During our recent stay at the Poly our 4 year old asked us when we were going to the Disney hotel. She didn't associate the Poly theme with Disney. We would like to eventually try every resort but I think we may end up back at ASMO just until the kids are able to enjoy the other themes as much as us.

[Katy]

when we were there this April, I was truly dissappointed with the appearance of the main pool. The lattice on the bridge is very ugly and takes away from the scenery. We did inquire while we were there and were told that the bridge has rotted and that there is another being built to replace it - so hopefully it won't be long before it's as good as new.

I've stayed at POR many times and was a "little" dissappointed this trip. But it still is my favorite of all the mods. I've always stayed in the Bayou section but this time was in Magnolia bend and enjoyed it very much!! Give it another try and I'm sure you'll enjoy Port Orleans in the fall - I do believe it has less shade than Riverside though.

[AllisonG]

DMRick,
I totally agree with you. We stayed in the mansions Dec. 00' and wound up, after 3 nights, having our resort changed. I did huge amounts of research on POR, toured it 3 times and even had lunch at the food court. But once we were actually staying there, we hated it. There was only 4 of us (2 adults and 2 small children) in a room and it was still too small for us and quite disappointing in the cleanliness area. Had maid service up 2 different times to clean unruly hairs all over the bathroom. It was gross. It was our first time at a moderate and I think we were so used to being almost on top of MK, we didn't really like being so far away.
The resort grounds are beautiful. I do have to say that. You feel like some southern belle walking around the grounds. They kept the gardens and flower beds immaculate.

So, I know where your coming from when you say you were disappointed. So was I. That year we stayed at POR, we wound up buying into DVC. So now we stay at the nicest resorts and have all the room we want. Have stayed 5 times at VWL and have never had a complaint about a thing. I highly suggest looking into DVC. LOVE IT!
Hope your stay in August is much more 'magical'.;)

(I understand alot of people on the DIS like POR. That is fine. You all have made your opinion quite clear. People who dislike it are expressing their opinions, that's all. This isn't some sort of competition. We're merely discussing likes and dislikes. Please let's be nice)

[cindyfan]

We stayed at POR when it was still Dixie Landings.
Sorry to hear that you were a little disappointed and I can understand that the grandkids like the AS better.
That is precisely why they built the AS! They knew the kids would love the big statues etc!! :D
We have also stayed at ASMo and my 10 yo DD loved it too!

But I do have to comment on the Theming of POR.....
IMHO....Disney theming doesn't just mean Mickey and Buzz Lightyear.....It is their ability to transport you to a different place and time!
For example you won't see Mickey and Goofy popping out at you on Splash Mountain because it is "themed" after Song of the South.
So when we stayed at POR we felt just like we were in the old south!! We loved the theme. And very relaxed!;)
Even my DD started singing "I wish I were in Dixie" :D
I think if they stuck a big statue of Buzz Lightyear right in the middle of POR, it would be way out of place!

I also agree with eeyore0062 about the food court.
We like the POR food court the best of all the Moderates and better that ASMo.

I hope your stay at PO-FQ in August will be more to your liking;)
Just think of it as stepping out of the real world and into the French Quarter of New Orleans!!;)
If you do that you will see that the theming here is great too.

[WALT PENN]

I was not being un-nice.I also did not see that anybody else was either.

[cindyfan]

WALT PENN.....
I agree!!;)
What you said was short and to the point. Unlike ME...who tends to go on and on and on.....and I just babble...on and on......:D :D :D
I haven't read any posts that were in poor taste.;)

[corndog]

My only disappointment with PO-R is that they no longer have the pralines in the food court. :)

[mrsltg]

Now I'm a little worried! DH and I are staying at POFQ in November. We were supposed to stay there last year but it was closed a few weeks before our arrival. We begrudgingly took CSR and ended up loving it! DH wants to try something different this time (although I'd be happy to move into our room at CSR and start life all over again!). We decided to try POFQ. What do you all think? Will we be disappointed? I'm not into sloppy food courts (who is?). Noisy kids at a pool in Disney are to be expected, but is it out of control? I just really want to be sure that we are going to be as thrilled as we were last time!

Thanks-
Erin

[musicfan]

DMRick --

I agree with you! I was really shocked at how similar the room size was to the All Stars. We were paying double the price for about a 2% difference in room size! Honestly, it seemed to me that the POR rooms were about 2 feet longer than the All Stars, and apart from the extra sink, the bathrooms seemed to be identical.

I was also surprised at how the "mansion" buildings looked when you got up close. The pictures make them look more mansion-y, but when you get up close they look like what they really are -- stacked motel-type buildings. I guess the incongruency of it was the shocker. At the All Stars, you expect that, but after the excellent deep south themeing of the entry to this resort (check-in, food court, main pool, pathways) when I got to the "mansions" it was a major reality check!

I will say that, although the food was basically the same as at the All Star food court, my whole family just loved the POR food court and still ranks it as their favorite resort food court, mainly because it was such a comfortably themed area. The water wheel apparatus was particularly appealing, and the fact that it was carpeted took the noise level down a few notches. We found it restful and spent a good deal of time there!

[TimNDansMom]

Was the boat running to DTD again? I was so disappointed that it wasn't running for our last two trips. Even though we have since stayed at other Disney resorts, we always enjoyed taking the cruise down the Sassagoula River to visit "Dixie Landings" and go for a bite to eat.

We stayed there for our first two on-site trips and we had a wonderful, peaceful stay there. The grounds are simply gorgeous and I agree that the food court is the best of the moderates.

[Disney-Kim]

everyone's experience is different. I loved our stays at the POR....twice. We stayed at both the Bayou and Mansion sides. I agree that the food court was messy some times and the pools were busy but we just accept that.
We don't have kids and feel that the POR is themed to the hilt but I can see where little kids would miss the disney characters. ;)

[safetymom]

Great trip report. It is nice to see someone point out the good and bad points to a resort. We stayed there in the past and have been trying to change our Coronado ressies to PO. My kids enjoyed the pool. It is a shame it isn't up to Disney par.

I would like to stay at the Pop Century when it opens. Do you have a recommendation for All Stars?

[DMRick]

As for the room size, there really is a difference of about 40 sq feet, but I guess it would seemed cramped with 5 people, no matter what. As for the size of the bathrooms, they are equal to most on property,

We weren't cramped..either in AllStars or POR (I don't think I said that). I just didn't see much difference between the two.
The bathroom in our room in POR was smaller than the bathroom we had in Allstars (we have stayed at All three Allstars, some more than once (and just this past September)..I remember very clearly what they were like. I assume it was to make room for the double sinks. 40 square feet aside..it's not much difference. The table/chairs is a hair bigger, the sink area is a tad bigger, they have the "seat" for your luggage and the TV cabinet is a little bigger..there goes your 40 sqaure feet. If it seems like I'm saying we didn't have fun, and enjoy the resort..reread what I wrote. We are going back to POR-FQ..obviously we liked it. However, since many times, people want to save money, and ask about value resorts and differences, I felt it was important to point out that we (as in my family, my opinion) feel that if money and Disney theming is an issue, than most likely, AllStars will fit the bill. My grands would prefer AS..and often we have them with us..we won't spend money at a moderate again when we have them with us..not if they (and when they are with us, we try to do stuff they like) would prefer the cheaper and more Dis themed Allstars. Geesh, people, please read what I wrote, and don't put words in my mouth that I didn't say LOL!

[DMRick]

I would like to stay at the Pop Century when it opens. Do you have a recommendation for All Stars?

Our grands favorite is Movies...and that seems to have the most little kids. However, they are happy at them all, and we prefer music (quietest). We seem to end up the most at Sports (using codes, most available). Other than when the cheerleaders are there, we have no problems with it. The kids loved watching the cheerleaders, and they were asleep when the noise started, so no problem with them staying at Sports.

As far as Disney par..I have the feeling that may be Disney par..I think they are more understaffed than I have seen in the past..everywhere. It seems almost everytime I bought something, the CM said "opps..excuse me, I made a mistake..I'm new". That was only a problem when they made a mistake and no one had time to help her correct it. I finally told them to keep the difference and left the store.

One other thing I noted, since it has been mentioned about AS so many times. We could hear the toilets flusing in another unit. Now this has never bothered me in AS, and didn't here, but I did notice it..faint, just like at AS. Just mentioning this, becasue someone asked me before I left to see if I heard the noise..I guess she had mentioned it and was told, no you couldn't hear them. I did hear them.

We didn't feel the pool was out of control..just that is was very crowded (remember, two of those loud kids, were ours!)...with the lattice covering the bridge, the slide side isn't very big. Two lifeguards on either side of the main pool, and one day (this may be everyday, but if you are on the slide side, you can no longer see the bigger side) the lifeguard played pool games, and the kids loved that..so did I, hubby and I didn't have to play in the pool..we got to work on our sunburns..ummm..suntans. In the quite pools, many of the kids had the clear inner tubes ($3.00 in the store) and those long play things, if you want to bring yours..didn't see them in the main pool.

One other comparison, is the showers appear to only be in the main pool area, not the quiet pool are (indoor showers). AS also offered the wall shampoo and soap to wash up, if you no longer had a room...I didn't see that in the POR..plus there was no hooks in the shower for your clothes..I dont' remember that in AS...but we have gotten dressed many times in their shower area, and I don't remember it being a problem.

As far as pool theming..they did have a "waterfall" and the slide..to look like the old south. I do think they could have had an "old south" dressed up Mickey squirting water without compromising the old south theming...maybe just at the quiet pools, even.

We were at the food courts twice at AS, and several times at POR(yes, the rug certainly helps keep down the noise). The CM's at POR really had a tougher time keeping up with the cleaning..but I think the POR is much larger, and more to clean. Plus having everyone clean their dirty mugs at the counter, really made it messy. I sat in syrup on a chair my last day..we cleaned our own table, but I didn't think to clean the chair. From now on, I'll feel first, then sit.

[Luv2Roam]

Sounds just as if it wasn't what you expected. Which I think we all have certain expectations built up from reading various posts.
It just goes to show everyone thinks different about everything.
I appreciate your post. Thanks!
We will be arriving at POR a week from Saturday! :bounce:
I'm looking forward to it. But I also was with CSR and ASMo.
Each of those resorts had good points and somewhat minor bad ones. As I am sure it is with every resort restaurant, etc.
I enjoyed ASMo and would have stayed there again if POR wasn't such a better deal at the time I booked.
Plus I want to try something different. :)
Thanks again for the critique!

[pooh6890]

Have stayed at CBR and PORS. For the cost and amenities, and although we enjoyed our stays at both, we usually choose Value or Deluxe resorts now. We can save more $$ at the Allstars and the theming is pure Disney. We can splurge a little more and not have to take busses everywhere (BW area is the best) or take the monorail. The great rates offered make it even more affordable. Not that I don't like the Mods, I just feel I am getting more for my vacation at the Value or Deluxe.

[Letsbgoofy]

DMRICK,

I thought your report on POR was excellent, although it is our favorite resort.

We have never seen the "quiet pools" have more than 5 people in them, but we go at the end of August when it isn't as crowded. I have never liked the big pool; it's always crowded and noisy. We also can never find a place to sit near the pool (unless it's raining and then there's always room!)

I have also never seen the food court packed full of people, but we eat at off times usually. I have seen a bit of a mess. Do you think people are as sloppy in their own homes??

I didn't find anything at all offensive in your report. It's interesting to hear how your stay was so different from ours; it makes me glad that we go in late August. Although we didn't like the All Stars, I agree that it is more interesting than POR for kids. Our son is 13, so he doesn't care about theming.

[ducklite]

Personally I think the "Theming" at the All Stars is garish, ugly, and cheesey looking. They look like a Motel 6 from he** IMHO.

I much prefer something more subtle, sublime, and upscale, which is what Port Orleans is able to deliver at a moderate price.

Everyone has their own opinions, but that's mine.

Anne

[DMRick]

I much prefer something more subtle, sublime, and upscale, which is what Port Orleans is able to deliver at a moderate price

Do you have kids Duck?
I think not. Because I thought I was making it clear that I was commenting on this stay with kids in mind..and they happen to like "kids" motels. If you have kids, do they think the same thing about the AS as you do? I personally have never run into a little kid who doesn't love it (I also wouldn't wear purple tennis shoes, but my granddaughter just loves hers, and if they make her happy, then good enough for me). You are, of course entitled to your opinion, however, from my point of view, I think your words are a little strong for that type of hotel....meant, IMO for kids. If I could find a cheap Motel 6 with such great theming, I would stay there with the grands..and save a bundle from Dis prices LOL! Our local motel six has no Disney characters, a tiny little pool with green water, and an 8 X 10 check in area, with no place to eat. And the whole building would fit on the fottball field in ASSports. Have you been over to the AS's..up close and personal with a child with wide eyes, as they see their beloved cartoons all made big and exciting? As they run through the "room" in toy story? As they duck before getting squirted in a theme pool?
POR is a nice hotel..at no time did I say it wasn't..however, it is not "Disney kid". Not everyone wants Dis kid.

letsbgoofy

...we'll be at FQ end of August, and I'm hoping it's as quiet as we found the AS last August (although I may switch back to POR if I find it's notas shaded). Hope to run into you there. No, people couldn't possible be that sloppy in their own homes!

[Simba's Mom]

LOL, DM Rick, I agree-to call them "quiet" pools is such an oxymoron! They're not quiet! DH's reaction to POR is like yours, I think. It's OK, but not his favorite. And yet, he loves POFQ. We walked around POFQ one time, and agreed we didn't like it. But then, next trip, there was a special that we could only get POFQ for, so we "had to" stay there. What a surprise-DH loved it! Now, I just "like" POFQ, yet love POR. Goes to show how 2 people, experiencing the same thing, can have different views.

[pooh6890]

Garish, ugly & cheesy looking? I am sorry but those are not words to describe ANY Disney resort. The Allstars are done with such detail somehow ugly is not one of the words I would use to describe them......just my opinion Duck.....:)

[eeyore0062]

Personally I think the "Theming" at the All Stars is garish, ugly, and cheesey looking. They look like a Motel 6 from he** IMHO.

Tell us what you think, Ducklite!!!:D Don't hold back now! ---LOL:D

Do you have kids Duck? I think not. Because I thought I was making it clear that I was commenting on this stay with kids in mind..and they happen to like "kids" motels. If you have kids, do they think the same thing about the AS as you do?

I also don't like the theming of AS and I DO have a child... she likes the moderates just fine. We took her to visit AS and she said she liked CBR better because of the slide, the beach, the playground and the colors of the buildings, not to mention the theming. She also liked Wilderness Lodge--ALOT!!! She was thrilled with the springs that go into the pool, the guyser, the boat to the MK, the Teepees hanging from the ceiling, the hidden Mickey's and the Totum poles. She had a blast. We really enjoy the parks, but I guess when we return to our room, a change of scenery is in order.

[Limmer]

Isn't it funny that when people really love something and other people don't feel the same way we feel the need to be defensive? As soon as I read this post I wanted to write about how much I loved it and why. When I stop and think about it I am glad not everybody feels the same way or I would not have got my ressies for Sept so easily!;) :p

[EUROPA]

I'm curious as to what you thought the theme was going to be? I'm not trying to be abrasive or anyhing but did you really expect them to have 40ft tall "Southern Bells " in front ther mansions? The way you descirbe it, it seems the only Disney themed resort is the All-star Movies...as it has some of the characters from the movies. Look at all of the other resorts? Poly--no 40th gaint Hula dancers. BeachClub..no 40th tall beach chairs....So really what were you expecting...giant characters infront of all the hotels?

[Luv2Roam]

Truer words were never spoken -- Thank goodness we all don't like the same resort! ;)
BTW -- The parks are Horrible!! Everyone STAY AWAY the last week in May. You don't want to be there! They are too terrible to describe. (That way DH and I won't have as long of lines! ;) :jester: :jester:

[DMRick]

I'm curious as to what you thought the theme was going to be? I'm not trying to be abrasive or anyhing but did you really expect them to have 40ft tall "Southern Bells " in front ther mansions?

No I didn't. And I have learned form posting my thoughts on this resort, that when you say anything someone may consider negative you sure do get some sarcasm (and people changing what you say). Next time I'll come on and say.."Wow, loved that resort, nothing was wrong with it..I had pixie dust all over me, and I knew for sure I was in Disneyworld!"..Is that better?I didn't say I wanted Southern Bells..I thought I said perhaps a Mickey (this is Disney) dressed as a southern as part of the resort or pool theming would be nice..after all it is DisneyWorld..I thought that would be cute.

I posted my thoughts on this resort, because so many times, I have seen people write, that they just didn't have money and had five people in their party..and they were considering staying off site since they couldn't afford a moderate. I have seen many, many answers to these people telling them that the resorts are all so "magical" and Disneylike, that even if it costs more than they budgeted to stay on site. I guess I thought I was telling people, that although the resort was nice (did anyone read the heading where I said that?), it was just a resort. Not what I would consider a Disney resort, but just a resort. A nice one, but just a resort. I guess this time around, I realized that if people want to save money and stay off site, I would no longer try to talk them into staying on site, for the promise of Disney magic. There are nice resorts off Disney too..so if you don't have the money, and your family can't fit into a value, I guess I learned from this, to not try and talk them into staying on site. EE is gone, staffing is down, and if you can't afford to stay on site, I just no longer feel you are scrapping the bottom of the barrel, as I feel some people have been made to feel. I certainly didn' t mean to hurt feelings and make people think that I thought less of them becausee they liked the resort. I leave the thread to those of you who want to be sarcastic and tear apart what I said, and turn it around into something I didn't say..

[DMRick]

The parks are Horrible!! Everyone STAY AWAY the last week in May. You don't want to be there! They are too terrible to describe.

I wasn't saying that POR was horrible. I actually said it was nice. I thought I was just giving my report. Next time, I'll try to give my report as all of you would want it to be..or better yet, you write it and I'll post it..then I won't make anyone feel bad if my opinion is different from yours.

[EUROPA]

Sorry I'm not trying to make you angry just trying to understand.

[Luv2Roam]

When I was JOKING the parks were horrible, it in no way had any implications to your posting on the resort. I was just JOKING.

[Limmer]

DMRick, luv2Roam was making a joke.

[Kallison]

I was very underwhelmed with the food court also when we stayed there in 2000. The floor was always sticky and the food quality was not the greatest.

[Whitegloves]

DMRick,
If you are staying at POFQ you will have some Disney characters. If memory serves me, aren't there some Fantasia characters at poolside? =0)
Enjoy your future trip!

[WALT PENN]

DMRICK

You wrote a good trip report but you are way too defensive.
Also the ALL STARS are the only resort that is themed in the disney style you want.I do agree that the AS would be a very kid friendly place to stay.

[safetymom]

DMRick, sorry to see that people aren't understanding what you were trying to say about the resort.

The beauty of WDW is the fact that there are different themed resorts for everyone. Everything from rustic to elegant.

You just shared your trip report and for that I am grateful. So should the others.

This board provides a service so that we travel to WDW we are better informed. We don't all like the same things so when looking at trip reports it helps us to make a decision.

If someone wants to stay at All Stars and another wants concierge at the Grand Floridian who am I to say that you shouldn't stay there?

I am sure that we need to remember that we will all have a great time no matter where we stay onsite at WDW.

To each his own as my Mom used to stay. As far as garish I can't wait for Pop Century to open. It looks like fun.

You also make me want to try All Stars. It's not like I am making a lifetime commitment, it's probably just for a week.

[Luv2Roam]

I too am very glad you posted and started this thread. We all need to read first hand reports that do more than just sing praises.
And as you stated, POR was nice, it just wasn't what you expected.
Thanks again for the thread.

[ducklite]

Originally posted by DMRick


Do you have kids Duck?
I think not. Because I thought I was making it clear that I was commenting on this stay with kids in mind..and they happen to like "kids" motels. If you have kids, do they think the same thing about the AS as you do? [/QUOTE]\

Yup, I have a son. He's now 16, but when he was younger (8, 9, 10) we stayed at the AS Resorts a few times. He thought they were "OK", but he much preferred the Beach Club, POFQ, and BWV. He used to complain about the noise at the AS resorts. I can't blame him. He much preferred the pools at the other resorts also.

Anne

[WolfpackFan]

Personally, I'm the complete opposite of DMRick. We've stayed at the All-Stars as well as several of the moderates and am getting ready to stay at AKL in June. I found the All-Stars to be very tacky and cheap looking IMO. I much prefer the themeing at the moderates and deluxes. As far as bathroom size, couldn't care less. You're going to find the smoking problems anywhere you go. My main complaint about the All-Stars though is I don't think you get the same level of service as you do at a moderate or deluxe. Our last stay at ASM, housekeeping didn't even bother to clean our room one day. Just completely skipped over us. Beds unmade, no clean towels, trash not emptied, nothing. We complained to the front desk and they didn't seem to be concerned at all.

[safetymom]

Ducklite, it sounds like your son is used to the finer more expensive properties. Not the place a lot of us could afford to stay.

I wouldn't try to compare when your tastes run to the higher prices resorts.

[n2mm]

I enjoyed reading this post. I stay at the All Stars and POR all of the time and enjoy both in different ways. Sometimes I get bored of one and stay at the other. Each has negatives and positives. If I could combine all of the positives of both, I would have MY perfect resort.

I could never understand why the beverage bar is always a mess a POR while at ANY of the A/S the CMs are constantly cleaning it. There does appear to be many more CMs working at the A/S food courts than at POR. I have spoken to the Manager at POR in the food court several times and have expressed ways that I THINK would improve the food court (include a sink and rootbeer).

We were just at the A/S Music 2 weeks ago for 15 days and leave next month for 10 days, but will be at POR. While I have no real problem at the A/S, I won't stay there in the summer anymore. The tour groups are too much for me to handle, so will only stay at a moderate. Since POR is the only one I like (yes, I've stayed at the others) that is my only choice.

I enjoyed the honesty of the poster because I have felt that same way many times. While I've stayed at POR and everything was perfect, I've also stayed there when things were not perfect (rude CMs, wallpaper falling off of the wall, cig. butts all over the pool area and getting stuck to your feet, dirty rooms, trash around the resorts, and the ever constant construction/roofing). I also love the quietness of POR, the wildlife, Boatwrights' dining hall, the lovely Mansion rooms, the quiet walks by the water and the closness to all of the other Disney World amendities.

I find the All Stars to be the ONLY resort with a Disney Theme, whether you are staying on "a boardwalk" or in a "old Floridian style resort" so find nothing wrong with the themeing of the Old South of POR/Dixie Landing.

[eeyore0062]

Personally, I am very glad that there are no Mickey's at the pool at PO-R...that is NOT what PO-R is about... there were no Mickey's back in the Old South. So the theming is being true to the time it represents.

As for PO-FQ, that is representitive of New Orleans with a Mardi Gras theme, so fanciful themes, such as dancing aligators are right at home there. I hope you like it better.

[Threehearts]

I also was pleased to read an honest opinion of a resort experience. We have stayed at POR and really enjoyed it but there were some things that bothered us(mostly related to bus situation and sit-down rest.). We would stay there again. I am writing re: 'only 2 pool lounges for 5 people' at the pool. We always travel with 2 adults and 2 kids and NEVER take more than 2 chairs at a busy poolside area. Do all the little kids in the party need their own lounge? We have certainly given up 1 of our 2 lounges in the past for a family who came later and had no place to put their belongings. I hope people don't expect to take a chair for every member of their party when little ones can easily share with the adults. Threehearts

[EUROPA]

Originally posted by safetymom
Ducklite, it sounds like your son is used to the finer more expensive properties. Not the place a lot of us could afford to stay.

I wouldn't try to compare when your tastes run to the higher prices resorts.

I'm sorry this just does not make sense...just because you can't afford to stay at a nicer places dosn't mean that you would not like it or like it when you do get a chance to stay there.

By your logic you're saying that you woiuld always perfoer the Motel 6 over the Ritz Carlton.

[smjj]

That is what these boards are all about and no one should be flamed for giving their opinion.. We are staying at POR for the first time this coming Dec. and would like to and have searched for all opinions on this resort. We try and stay at different resorts each time because they are so different and enjoy that diversity. That is what makes WDW so special for us. Keep the reviews(both positive and negative) about the resort coming..smjj

[mrsltg]

DMRICK- How dare you post an independent thought!!!! You should know better by now! LOL

I really appreciate your honesty in your trip report. I am glad that you are standing up for what you said (not that you should have to defend any of it).

I think that it should be obvious that everyone has different tastes and that they are entitled to their opinions. Many times this basic idea gets overlooked on these boards!

That small kids love the All Stars should not surprise anyone. That they're not impressed by the other hotels shouldn't be astounding either. I'd actually find it a little odd if a small child preferred the GF or Poly (or the mods except for the pool areas)to the All Stars. It would suggest to me that either they hadn't been to the AS or they were parroting their parents' views. What little person wouldn't love to see larger than life, over-the-top characters from their favorite movies? Your average kid is not going to appreciate the victorian architecture and ambiance in the GF or the Polynesian flare in the resort given the same name. What they are going to appreciate is the DISNEY (think fantasy) theming that runs rampant throughout the All Stars. Obviously all of the resorts are themed, but what I appreciate as an adult is clearly not on level with what my DD thinks is spectacular. And being that Walt dreamed of these places for the kids, I think I'll go with what makes her eyes light up as opposed to what makes mine! Dh and I haven't brought her to WDW yet (she's 17 mos old), but we figure that once she is old enough to understand Disney, we'll be regulars at the AS's.

And just an FYI for those of you not aware... most families can't afford the extravagance of $300+ per night hotel rooms! Going on a WDW vacation is a tremendous expense that they have to work hard to save for. Perhaps slamming the AS resorts as being less than your average Motel 6 is a little harsh? Thank whomever you choose to thank for the good (financial and otherwise) fortune that you have in your life that you are able to make continuous trips to a place that many only get to dream of going too.

[babus1]

I think the crowded pools depend on what time of year you go and the weather. We went in Sept. 14-23 and the pool was fairly quiet. It was around 82 degrees while we were there. I would think November would be a slow time too. There is not as much shade at the FQ as at Riverside, but it is still very nice. A lot smaller of a resort with a closer city type atmosphere. There are small garden areas that are nice, but we didn`t spend any time in them, just walked by on our way to the busses. The food court was not as busy as Riversides, but we were there late compared to some. 8 AM and 8PM usually. My kids loved POFQ, but they had never seen the All Stars. I am not of a mind to go to a hotel that lures kids by the thousands. My own two are enough for me. While we did see families at FQ the place was not overrun with them. I am sure any adult would find the FQ very quaint and adequate, but would definitely love a deluxe.

[binness]

i was just reserved our stay for the por for 5 nights at aug. the rate is fair ($121) for family of 5 and we are tourists out of state, coming with our 3 kids for 1st time. i couldnt find a near hotel for a rate less then $90-100 and that is why i figured it is a good deal. my major concern was that since the resort is what you call "insite", it is great with kids that get exhosted - just a quick stroll back for a nap or refreshment, and back to business.
am i right with my thoghts? what do you mean "the park is not themed enogh" (hope i spelled it right)? we are on low budget ang thinking of eating outside the resort? would i be saving on it?
and generally, should we cancell our stay there?

[yepod]

Thanks DMRICK for your honest report!

I love the way it stirs people up, when you're just trying to give your opinion LOL

Hope POFQ works out for ya on your next trip:D

[Threehearts]

binness- I think that your kids will love this resort. You can use the food court to budget lower priced meals or less expensive still, eat off-site. The only thing that I would perhaps not agree with is that the resort is just a quick stroll back(I assume that you mean form the different parks). The bus ride is neither short nor long and you may have to wait for a bus. I still think that there are SO many more plusses to staying onsite that you will find your dollars well spent. What a lovely treat for your children. They will love it!! Susan

[married2grumpy]

I find this thread very entertaining! People take it so personally if someone posts something negative about their favorite resort.
I thought the original post was well written and I'm thankful that DMRICK was willing to share his experiences with us. I have never stayed at POR but will someday. I like to experience everything for myself and like to form my own opinions. My kids loved ASMO and I think they are a good value for an on site property. I wish we could afford to stay at a deluxe or moderate every time we visit but we can't. I consider myself extremely fortunate to be able to take our kids to Disney every year regardless of where we stay. Some people aren't able to go at all. I just sometimes think there are some "resort snobs" on this board who make you feel as if you must have no taste and be low class to stay at a value resort. I think you can stay at a motel 6 from he** (if that's what you want to call it) and still have a great time with your family. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder!

[DMRick]

'only 2 pool lounges for 5 people at the pool. We always travel with 2 adults and 2 kids and NEVER take more than 2 chairs at a busy poolside area. Do all the little kids in the party need their own lounge?

No, but us three adults would have each liked having a chair...one sitting on the end was uncomfortable. Just so there is not another misunderstanding, there were 3 adults and two children in our group...I guess I should have mentioned that. We did pay extra for that third adult. The lounges were plentiful..and without people, but lots of stuff around and on the lounges. ..many with just towels. I asked the lifeguard if I could remove them and was told it was not a good idea. Most times no one came back to the chairs...prob moved to the other side and got fresh towels
Even so, when the kids got out of the pool, it would have been nice for them to have a chair to sit on and dry a bit, and I wouldn't have felt bad about them having a seat, if they were using it.

[Threehearts]

DMRick- I stand corrected on the adults/kids ratio. Threehearts

[pooh6890]

DM...in that situation you have just moved the towels to the next closest empty chair so all three of you would have a seat. If the people returned I would then just say sorry didn't know you were coming back and easily move and share, but chances are they would have picked up their towels and just moved. That is what we have noticed at the pools in the past. That is better than the bus situation which was really terrible on our visit to PORS. The bus location is really bad at all the parks, especially Epcot (even farther than the AS). It irks me that I wait in line for 20 to 30 minutes for a bus back to my hotel and then people cram in like sardines instead of waiting for the next bus. Then expect my daughters to give up their seats. Isn't is first come first served usually? They are not safe standing and getting shoved around because those people decided not to wait for the next bus. That is probably my biggest pet peeve while there.

[Jodi1980]

Please...If you ever have a complaint about a resort, let them know at that time - if we don't say anything, nothing will change or get better. I just got back from POR-Riverside and areas were very dirty - I went to the front desk and also called them while I was there. Ok, the area was still dirty the next day but I do plan on sending Disney a letter. The lady at the front desk said she never heard anyone complain about the resort being dirty!

[jaguar9748]

Jodi - what areas were dirty?? :)

[Jodi1980]

Alligator Bayou building 14. It the closest building to the main building where the food court is. I saw a lot of cig butts, straws, paper plates, a food tray, a wire hanger, etc, etc. I moved to the mansion section (I planned on moving prior to trip just to see how different the rooms were) and it was cleaner there. I just don't understand how hard it can be to have someone pick up trash!

[threeboysmom]

I'll have to agree wholeheartedly with DMRick (sigh)..... We stayed at Riverside in May 2001 and were disappointed in the overall "Disney experience/magic/theming". Now don't get me wrong - it was a nice resort - rooms were very clean - and my family had fun there. BUT you can get the same kind of "theming" in many of the Orlando OFF SITE resorts. And I think that was what DMRick was trying to convey. Staying at Riverside is very comparable to staying at an offsite resort - there is nothing there that shouts out "I'm at Disney!". My family didn't feel any different staying at Riverside (on property) than we do at Vistana (offsite) when we stay there (which is actually prettier & better landscaped than Riverside & you get much more room for your dollar). If you have a car & don't use the Disney transportation, then there is NO difference between Port Orleans & offsite. You can actually drive to the parks quicker than taking a bus from there. Now the All Stars make you feel like you're still at Disney, and so do the deluxes. But not Riverside (and I haven't been to any of the other moderates so can't comment on them....)