BLT first trip home 8/23-8/28! Report and pics (Standard View Studio)

[pditullio]

Let’s just get this out of the way: we LOVED this resort. Sure we had some concerns/suggestions for improvement, but overall? Just wow. My family bought in to DVC in 1992, and I still think of OKW as our first home, but I have to say that unless we really wanted to stretch our points, or needed the extra square footage if we brought a larger party, I can’t see myself staying anywhere else but BLT in the near future (we’ve stayed at all WDW resorts but SSR now).

Being on the monorail loop just really does it for me. I think it’s the combination of nostalgia (earliest trips to Disney as a child in the 70s), accessibility (“let’s just hop on the monorail and head over to the Poly for lunch!”), and convenience and proximity to grand concourse while still being in a quieter space. It just has everything we need.

So, on to the report for this specific trip… Our checkin date was Sunday 8/23, and we flew in the night before and pricelined a night at the Regal Sun. We are early birds, and had done online checkin, and had requested a 9am arrival. We got there at 9:30, planning to spend the day at the pool if the room was not ready, but it was!!

We could not believe our room. We had made the decision to stick with standard view for this first trip home while we scoped it out and decided just where our sweet spot was at this resort. When we got to our room (second floor studio, 7218), we were amazed to discover that we could see the castle and astro-orbiter and space mountain perfectly. Not by leaning over the railing, but sitting on the bed!

http://i1007.photobucket.com/albums/af193/pmditullio/viewfrom7812.jpg
(crane was only there briefly)

And we confirmed that it was a standard view, and not an upgrade or anything. I was relieved to discover that the room was not considered MK view, because it sort of made me feel like maybe the MK view rooms were *really* premium, which is good to know. I’d be annoyed if I spent the extra points on MK and got what we got, because it was a lesser view than the higher floors. Still, so much more than I ever expected for standard. I sincerely hope that they categorize each room individually, rather than by floor, etc. Because I think we’ve already seen the wide variation in the reports so far.

Here are some more views:

To the left:
http://i1007.photobucket.com/albums/af193/pmditullio/viewleft.jpg

Sunset:
http://i1007.photobucket.com/albums/af193/pmditullio/sunsetview.jpg

Wishes (from our room):
http://i1007.photobucket.com/albums/af193/pmditullio/wishes1.jpg
http://i1007.photobucket.com/albums/af193/pmditullio/wishes2.jpg

I have pics of other stuff, too, but here are the rest of my impressions, first...

Size:
It’s me, DH, and DS (9), so when it’s just us (as opposed to us and the grandparents), a studio is fine for us. These studios are definitely small, but still more than adequate for us. We did fold up the sleep sofa every day, but only because I am completely OCD and not because it would have been a big obstruction. The sleeper mattress was hard, but in a good way. The three of us were actually fighting over it every night. It is not the kind with the bar.

The joint kitchen space and bathroom sink didn’t pose too much of a problem. It was tight for us to both be in there at one time, but if one person stationed themselves at the far end to brush teeth, do hair, etc., there was room for the other to be at the kitchen sink. I still prefer this arrangement to having the sink in the bathroom proper with the toilet and shower.

Speaking of the bathroom, the door thing had my DH so nervous before we went after reading it here, but it turned out to be okay. Since the bathroom is far from the living area, it’s not like someone would be sitting outside the door while you are indisposed. Still, I agree it was a strange choice. A pocket door would have worked just as well. Another bathroom oddity - no shelves in the shower! Not even a soap dish. All the shampoo bottles and razors and such were on the tub edge and constantly being knocked off by the shower curtain. Also, the fan is on a motion sensor and if you take a shower that lasts longer than five minutes it goes off and the room steams up.

Top of the World was great, as has been well-documented. Like others, we did not experience a huge crowd there. We went up twice: once in the early evening for snacks and drinks, when we were three of about 7 or 8 people up there; once for drinks pre-fireworks, and again only maybe 8-12 people until the show started, then about 30 or so came up to the deck for Wishes. Everyone had a spot at the railing. As I mentioned on another thread, there is a definite safety issue with people lifting their small children up to see over that wall with the sheer 16-story drop. It gave me the willies. We also watched Wishes from the sky bridge one night. I liked the view from my room best, as it was lower which I preferred to looking down on the show. Just me.

We also had a strange two-day crisis with our DVD player. On our first night there, we got a DVD at Community Hall, but our DVD player didn’t work. It took three phone calls and two days before it got fixed, and the story is a longer saga than that, but I won’t go into the details unless someone is interested. It was really random. On the subject of DVDs, Community Hall only has about 20 or so titles, because they are in the process of “building their collection.” Seriously, this is sort of silly. Disney can’t shell out a grand or so for a core collection? I know it sounds like a petty complaint, but I get annoyed by things that are easy fixes that are left undone.

Last (and I saved the biggest issue for last), we spent a lot of time this trip just hanging out at the resort (and less time in the parks) and spent a chunk of every day at the BLT pool. Pool hoppers are a serious problem. Over the course of my stay, I personally witnessed and overheard many people who were very obviously not staying at the resort. The gates to the pool area did not lock, or were not locked, the whole time we were there. There is no asking for KTTW cards or wristbands. Seriously, I am thinking about posting a separate thread to start a discussion about this, because I think that of other owners notice this trend, too, we should start pressing the matter with MS. The BLT guests-only pool was a feature that was heavily marketed to us before we added on, and was a big draw for us – not for exclusivity as much as capacity – to have the guarantee of a pool that would not be shoulder to shoulder. I am curious to see if others see this as a problem as well.

Anyway, let me know if you have other questions. There is so much else that I could include here, but it would be [even] longer. I know the posts from the folks who went earlier in the month were really helpful to our planning… :teacher:

[Muhlenberg]

Wow! That's a great view from a standard view! I'm of the "not concerned with the parking lot" camp...there's the same view at the CR. I booked a lake view studio for my parents and I for February. I get very excited with every trip report!

Would there be room in the studio for a scooter (or two) (near the lock-off door)? That's another thing I've been thinking about, as they're 85. Is there an outlet near there?

Also, are there outlets near the table? Is that also where the internet connection is?

[locodemickey]

Thanks for the info. It's so great to see all the wonderful standard views. I wonder if there are any bad ones. We are staying in a 1br standard in December and I can't decide whether or not to request a location. I do remember that the 1brs are wider in the living room on the MK side (but the laundry room is smaller). Can't wait till Dec:banana:

[oakmanner]

Very nice TR. I'm surprized they consider that a standard view. Good for BLT owners!

[locodemickey]

[QUOTE=pditullio;33371652]
Last (and I saved the biggest issue for last), we spent a lot of time this trip just hanging out at the resort (and less time in the parks) and spent a chunk of every day at the BLT pool. Pool hoppers are a serious problem. Over the course of my stay, I personally witnessed and overheard many people who were very obviously not staying at the resort. The gates to the pool area did not lock, or were not locked, the whole time we were there. There is no asking for KTTW cards or wristbands. Seriously, I am thinking about posting a separate thread to start a discussion about this, because I think that of other owners notice this trend, too, we should start pressing the matter with MS. The BLT guests-only pool was a feature that was heavily marketed to us before we added on, and was a big draw for us – not for exclusivity as much as capacity – to have the guarantee of a pool that would not be shoulder to shoulder. I am curious to see if others see this as a problem as well.
QUOTE]

This is one of the things that really makes me mad:mad: I follow our DVC rules and do not hop where I'm not supposed to, but they do not enforce it when people do break the rules:headache: We stayed at Kidani in July and the door was broken the whole 19 days we were there (they did try to fix it but to no avail). I saw several different cars park in the lot next to the pool and walk in. Now granted, they could have been from Jambo, but I'll bet not all of them were. And that pool is not very big. It was crowded with only about half occupancy. I hope they do start enforcing their rules - I can hope can't I? ;)

[Muhlenberg]

[quote=pditullio;33371652]
Last (and I saved the biggest issue for last), we spent a lot of time this trip just hanging out at the resort (and less time in the parks) and spent a chunk of every day at the BLT pool. Pool hoppers are a serious problem. Over the course of my stay, I personally witnessed and overheard many people who were very obviously not staying at the resort. The gates to the pool area did not lock, or were not locked, the whole time we were there. There is no asking for KTTW cards or wristbands. Seriously, I am thinking about posting a separate thread to start a discussion about this, because I think that of other owners notice this trend, too, we should start pressing the matter with MS. The BLT guests-only pool was a feature that was heavily marketed to us before we added on, and was a big draw for us – not for exclusivity as much as capacity – to have the guarantee of a pool that would not be shoulder to shoulder. I am curious to see if others see this as a problem as well.
QUOTE]

This is one of the things that really makes me mad:mad: I follow our DVC rules and do not hop where I'm not supposed to, but they do not enforce it when people do break the rules:headache: We stayed at Kidani in July and the door was broken the whole 19 days we were there (they did try to fix it but to no avail). I saw several different cars park in the lot next to the pool and walk in. Now granted, they could have been from Jambo, but I'll bet not all of them were. And that pool is not very big. It was crowded with only about half occupancy. I hope they do start enforcing their rules - I can hope can't I? ;)
I'm with you on that! This world would be a whole lot better if people would follow the rules.

[DVC Mike]

Let’s just get this out of the way: we LOVED this resort. Sure we had some concerns/suggestions for improvement, but overall? Just wow... I can’t see myself staying anywhere else but BLT in the near future.


Glad to hear you loved BLT. So did we!

:thumbsup2

[Crystal_27]

Woo-Hoo - what a great "standard" view (I have to agree with your supposition that the MK views must really be spectacular). And, thank you very much for your honest review of the resort. I'm honestly very surprised to read about the pool hopping. I mean, the lounge is so heavily "guarded"; it surprises me that, knowing in general how many people pool hop on the monorail resorts anyway, that DVC didn't make the pool access restricted...as they promised. It sounds like this is an issue that we're all going to have to be very diligent to keep on BLT management about. :rolleyes1

[courtneylauren]

Can you request room numbers??
I absolutely LOVE your view, and we were planning on staying in a standard studio.

[pditullio]

Would there be room in the studio for a scooter (or two) (near the lock-off door)? That's another thing I've been thinking about, as they're 85. Is there an outlet near there?


I think you could do one in that corner by the lock-off door. There's a nice square space just inside the door that is bigger than it looks. We kept our empty suitcases, shoes, and a bunch of stuff there. Don't know if there was an outlet, but I wasn't looking. Sorry. Two scooters won't fit in that spot, though. No way. If you kept the sofabed folded up (if they only needed the one bed I mean), you could fit one by the door and one by the sliders. But it would be crowded. So I'd only recommend it if you weren't planning to be in the room a lot.

Also, are there outlets near the table? Is that also where the internet connection is?

There are lots of outlets near the table, and along the wall against the TV unit. Don't know where internet was, as I was using my phone for internet. :)

Can you request room numbers??
I absolutely LOVE your view, and we were planning on staying in a standard studio.

I think you can, but I remember someone here recommending against it, mainly because if that room is not available, they don't really know what it was about that room you were after, so it's tough for them to give you an alternative. I would think it would be better to ask for "facing MK" or "near North elevators"? Maybe someone here can advise more...

[suzycute]

What a great trip report - thanks for sharing it! :thumbsup2
Makes me so excited - we check in to a BLT studio with lake view 3 weeks today! :banana:

[Sandisw]

I think you could do one in that corner by the lock-off door. There's a nice square space just inside the door that is bigger than it looks. We kept our empty suitcases, shoes, and a bunch of stuff there. Don't know if there was an outlet, but I wasn't looking. Sorry. Two scooters won't fit in that spot, though. No way. If you kept the sofabed folded up (if they only needed the one bed I mean), you could fit one by the door and one by the sliders. But it would be crowded. So I'd only recommend it if you weren't planning to be in the room a lot.




There are lots of outlets near the table, and along the wall against the TV unit. Don't know where internet was, as I was using my phone for internet. :)



I think you can, but I remember someone here recommending against it, mainly because if that room is not available, they don't really know what it was about that room you were after, so it's tough for them to give you an alternative. I would think it would be better to ask for "facing MK" or "near North elevators"? Maybe someone here can advise more...

We are going in Dec in a SV studio and have requested that we be put in an "even #'d room, facing the parking lot". Hopefully, I will get lucky.

[RLRDA]

And we confirmed that it was a standard view, and not an upgrade or anything. I was relieved to discover that the room was not considered MK view, because it sort of made me feel like maybe the MK view rooms were *really* premium, which is good to know. I’d be annoyed if I spent the extra points on MK and got what we got, because it was a lesser view than the higher floors. Still, so much more than I ever expected for standard. I sincerely hope that they categorize each room individually, rather than by floor, etc. Because I think we’ve already seen the wide variation in the reports so far.


Last (and I saved the biggest issue for last), we spent a lot of time this trip just hanging out at the resort (and less time in the parks) and spent a chunk of every day at the BLT pool. Pool hoppers are a serious problem. Over the course of my stay, I personally witnessed and overheard many people who were very obviously not staying at the resort. The gates to the pool area did not lock, or were not locked, the whole time we were there. There is no asking for KTTW cards or wristbands. Seriously, I am thinking about posting a separate thread to start a discussion about this, because I think that of other owners notice this trend, too, we should start pressing the matter with MS. The BLT guests-only pool was a feature that was heavily marketed to us before we added on, and was a big draw for us – not for exclusivity as much as capacity – to have the guarantee of a pool that would not be shoulder to shoulder. I am curious to see if others see this as a problem as well.


Glad to hear that you had a great trip!

From your picture it seems that your standard studio was on the front curve of the "C" - if you were one floor up, you'd be classified as an MK view. You had a beautiful view for Standard points - we were originally given a 3rd floor MK view 1BR (which stunk IMHO for the amount of points it took). Luckily we were able to change it to the 11th floor. As you said, for premium points people expect a premium view. I think a lot of SV and LV guests are going to be excited when they get the 'bonus' MK view at no additional points :goodvibes.

We also noticed that the lock on the BLT pool didn't work. The resort opened less than a month ago, how can it be broken already :confused3. The same thing was going on at the Kidani pool, too, although the entire lock seemed to have been taken apart to be repaired (again - it's only been open since May). I did not hear anyone saying that they were pool hopping, however. There were also times when the doors to the skybridge were stuck on 'open' (they open automatically most of the time) from one end to the other. This would allow anyone to wander over although there's no real access to anything but hallways.

Like you said, little things to remedy but overall a beautiful addition to DVC.:thumbsup2

[Disney Princess]

Glad you had a great time! Thanks for the thorough trip report. I can't wait to try BLT out. I had to quote this line:


We did fold up the sleep sofa every day, but only because I am completely OCD and not because it would have been a big obstruction.

It completely sounds like me. I HATE having the pullout out all day long. It makes things seem "messy". Thankfully it is just DH and me in the studio, so I won't have to trouble him with the lifting. I just smiled because you reminded me of me. :goodvibes

[pditullio]

Glad you had a great time! Thanks for the thorough trip report. I can't wait to try BLT out. I had to quote this line:

It completely sounds like me. I HATE having the pullout out all day long. It makes things seem "messy". Thankfully it is just DH and me in the studio, so I won't have to trouble him with the lifting. I just smiled because you reminded me of me. :goodvibes

I know, right? Eew...chaos! I also make the (non-sleeper) beds every day. Even if we are going to be out of the room all day, I just can't stand coming 'home' to disorder.

I need order. Which is why I am a Librarian. :wave:

[pixie921]

Thanks for posting your impressions of BLT! It sounds like you really enjoyed it. :thumbsup2

I am really bummed, though, to hear about the pool hopping situation. I was really hoping they'd follow through with the restricted access for resort guests only. That is a tiny pool and I hate the idea of it being overcrowded due to hoppers! I didn't notice if you said anything to the lifeguards or management when you noticed it happening (or even after) ...

[pditullio]

Thanks for posting your impressions of BLT! It sounds like you really enjoyed it. :thumbsup2

I am really bummed, though, to hear about the pool hopping situation. I was really hoping they'd follow through with the restricted access for resort guests only. That is a tiny pool and I hate the idea of it being overcrowded due to hoppers! I didn't notice if you said anything to the lifeguards or management when you noticed it happening (or even after) ...

Oh, yes! Thanks for reminding me. I did indeed speak to a manager-type guy that was wandering around the pool area in the middle of our stay. I was very diplomatic (I thought) and just asked, "Hey Guy, why no locks? Why no KTTW carding? Why no wristbands? You know, like at some other DVC resorts...."

His response? Part 1: "The gates are broken and we are in the process of getting them fixed."

Now, keep in mind that even if they were broken the same day I arrived this would have been three or four days of broken. I mean, dudes, call a freaking locksmith. You're Disney. You can't fix gates in a week's time?

His response, Part Deux: "Once the locks are fixed, there will be a lot less people here." Um, I sincerely doubt it. How many people will just walk in behind another guest (as they do onto the sky bridge)? The CR pool is a 2 minute walk away, in your flip flops.

We hopped from OKW to BCV for years until they made it exclusive. After that, we just follow the dang rules and book a ressie there if we want to do Stormalong. But "making it exclusive" means more than calling it exclusive. It means stationing a CM to check cards and issue wristbands. If they can do it for the Lounge the can do it for the pool. And if they can't, they they snowed everyone (including me) when they marketed it that way.

In closing, I left him with the notion that many owners were not going to be very pleased to find their pool that was sold to them as private was in fact a stop on the monorail pool hopping route. He said he would indeed pass that on to his manager. So, we'll see. :)

[pixie921]

So glad you spoke up!! I think it's important that they really start to monitor the situation, checking keys just as they do at Stormalong Bay, whether the lock is working or not.

[locodemickey]

What I don't get, is why do they have to wait until the locks are fixed (the locks were never fixed at Kidani when we were there in July - what is it with these new gates!)? Can't they do a wristband system or just ask people for a KTTW card? I know I would GLADLY show mine if I knew it would mean booting the hoppers. They have got to stop being so political about it. Who cares if the hoppers are offended or whatever it is that Disney is afraid of. I would think that if they don't do anything about it, this will be the most crowded pool on property.

[mandjblum]

We were there the first Saturday after it opened. By Sunday the gate stopped working. You had to yank it open.So it has been broken for 3 weeks.

[pditullio]

We were there the first Saturday after it opened. By Sunday the gate stopped working. You had to yank it open. So it has been broken for 3 weeks.

Yes, this is sort of what I meant. I had read here on the boards that the locks were not working before I went, so I knew it was BS when he was telling me they were 'working on them.'

What I don't get, is why do they have to wait until the locks are fixed (the locks were never fixed at Kidani when we were there in July - what is it with these new gates!)? Can't they do a wristband system or just ask people for a KTTW card? I know I would GLADLY show mine if I knew it would mean booting the hoppers. They have got to stop being so political about it. Who cares if the hoppers are offended or whatever it is that Disney is afraid of. I would think that if they don't do anything about it, this will be the most crowded pool on property.

My question is, why are they hesitant to have that system here but not at Stormalong? Do they check cards at Kidani? I'm really disappointed at the lack of a plan for the resort's opening. I mean, I know there are growing pains for every new resort, but they must have known there would be speculators.

And on Thursday of our trip, it just may have been 'the most crowded pool on property.' It told me something that everywhere else in BLT -- the halls, laundry room, community hall, and even the deck for wishes the night before -- was dead as a doornail, and yet there were a couple hundred people in the pool area? Come on! Those were hoppers. Or at least fair number of them were. We couldn't even find chairs that day. In fact, that day we ended up walking over to the CR pool for a little while so DS could use their slide without waiting in line so long. What is the occupancy of the CR vs. BLT? Their pool was nowhere near as crowded.

Another morning I was sitting at the table near the slide watching DS come down it, and a woman and her 3 kids came in and took the table next to me. She smiled at me and said, "Wow, this is a great pool! Our kids were bored with our pool." I didn't ask where 'her pool' was, but she proceeded to call her DH and tell him to follow with their stuff. Which he did. Plus one more kid. They were still there when we left a couple hours later.

From our room balcony (which was second floor just above the front entrance) we watched a family arrive in their swimming gear by car (not sure what they told the gate attendant), unpack their stuff, try to use their KTTW cards in the front door, and then when that didn't work, proceed to walk all the way around the building to the pool instead.

These are just a couple of examples, but in my opinion, it's just not functioning as an exclusive pool. And they are not really trying to make it one. I don't understand why.

[locodemickey]

I think we all need to voice our concern on this. Who do we write to? I know there are those who say 'What is it hurting you to have hoppers there?' but when we have to stand in line longer, or can't find a chair, etc. it does affect us!! I follow the hopping rules, why can't Disney protect my huge investment and give me what I paid for?

[Sandisw]

I think we all need to voice our concern on this. Who do we write to? I know there are those who say 'What is it hurting you to have hoppers there?' but when we have to stand in line longer, or can't find a chair, etc. it does affect us!! I follow the hopping rules, why can't Disney protect my huge investment and give me what I paid for?

You can send an email to member satisfaction. Here is the email address:

Disney Vacation Club Member Satisfaction <DVCMemberSatisfactionTeam@disneyvacationclub.com>

I think it is important that things be done the way that they are supposed to. If they can monitor it at BCV, then they can at BLT and AKV.

[WalterYensid]

I think it is important that things be done the way that they are supposed to. If they can monitor it at BCV, then they can at BLT and AKV.

They can regulate pool hopping at AKV and BLT and the members will pay for it in higher MF fees.
1 CM 12 hours/day @ $20/hr x 365 days = $87,600/year. $20/hr is not too much either. If anything it probably too low by $5-10. Granted the CM's get paid diddley, but once you figure in med Ins., Comp, Employers SS tax, Unemployment tax, supervision and personnel overhead, it adds up.

If it gets really bad then maybe they should, but do you really want to pay more if it's only a minor problem?

While we're on the subject...
* Housekeeping can be perfect
* No one will have accents
* Mickey can greet us at the front door
* Fresh flowers in room upon check-in

Just so long as we are willing to pay.

[locodemickey]

They can regulate pool hopping at AKV and BLT and the members will pay for it in higher MF fees.
1 CM 12 hours/day @ $20/hr x 365 days = $87,600/year. $20/hr is not too much either. If anything it probably too low by $5-10. Granted the CM's get paid diddley, but once you figure in med Ins., Comp, Employers SS tax, Unemployment tax, supervision and personnel overhead, it adds up.

If it gets really bad then maybe they should, but do you really want to pay more if it's only a minor problem?

While we're on the subject...
* Housekeeping can be perfect
* No one will have accents
* Mickey can greet us at the front door
* Fresh flowers in room upon check-in

Just so long as we are willing to pay.

Please let me understand what you are saying. It would cost more dues $$ to cut out the hoppers? I know we don't live in a perfect world (I don't understand the above accent comment), but why is it so hard just to ask the hoppers to leave (or have a working locked gate)?

[DenLo]

They can regulate pool hopping at AKV and BLT and the members will pay for it in higher MF fees. .

If it gets really bad then maybe they should, but do you really want to pay more if it's only a minor problem?

Just so long as we are willing to pay.

Please let me understand what you are saying. It would cost more dues $$ to cut out the hoppers? I know we don't live in a perfect world (I don't understand the above accent comment), but why is it so hard just to ask the hoppers to leave (or have a working locked gate)?

Sorry, I can't agree that if BLT enforces the no pool hopping rule it will raise the MF. The DVC has already labeled it as a no pool hopping. Enforcing it while the gates are not working is part of management's job at BLT. For now they are trying to fix the gates (for most of the month), however, they need to take the next step and ensure that pool is for BLT guests only. If they can do it for the TOTW, they can figure out something for the pool. If in the end the gates do not stay fixed or do not prevent people sneaking in then DVC/BLT will have to decide what to do.

One question--has the additional people who are pool hopping made the pool more crowded? If the pool is not consistently crowded, maybe is not worth the extra expense of assigning an employee to check keycards.

[Sandy321]

You can send an email to member satisfaction. Here is the email address:

Disney Vacation Club Member Satisfaction <DVCMemberSatisfactionTeam@disneyvacationclub.com>

I think it is important that things be done the way that they are supposed to. If they can monitor it at BCV, then they can at BLT and AKV.

I am not a member - but ITA - its one thing to complain on a message board, to get a variety of opinions - but unless MS gets notified, often - I dont see any changes coming on -

isnt the BLT member dues already higher than other DVC properties? or was that just the 'buy in"? because they enforce no pool hopping at one DVC property - I believe there should be an expectation of rule enforcement - who wants chaos on a vacation?

OP - - I really appreciated reading your trip report!!

[WalterYensid]

Enforcing it while the gates are not working is part of management's job at BLT.
We pay for all the management and maintenance with MF. Enforcing it would be our expense.

If the pool is not consistently crowded, maybe is not worth the extra expense of assigning an employee to check keycards.
My point exactly.

locodemickey mentioned he didn't understand my comment about "No one will have accents". Sorry Loco. I just hate it when I call Disney, MS, or anywhere else and I have a hard, if not impossible time understanding the person on the other end of the line.

[pditullio]

They can regulate pool hopping at AKV and BLT and the members will pay for it in higher MF fees.
1 CM 12 hours/day @ $20/hr x 365 days = $87,600/year. $20/hr is not too much either. If anything it probably too low by $5-10. Granted the CM's get paid diddley, but once you figure in med Ins., Comp, Employers SS tax, Unemployment tax, supervision and personnel overhead, it adds up.

If it gets really bad then maybe they should, but do you really want to pay more if it's only a minor problem?

While we're on the subject...
* Housekeeping can be perfect
* No one will have accents
* Mickey can greet us at the front door
* Fresh flowers in room upon check-in

Just so long as we are willing to pay.

First of all, it's your opinion that it's a "minor" problem. I gather from your sarcasm that you are implying that I am being too picky, or that I am insisting on perfection. For the record, I am not the type of guest who white-gloves everything, and am generally pretty nonchalant about imperfections here and there. My mousekeeper last week actually did a crapola job -- leaving us no trash bags, not exchanging the dish towels, and leaving us only 2 new bath towels instead of 4. But I didn't even mention it in my trip report, or complain about it, or get upset about it at the time. Over the years, we have had great mousekeeping, and lousy mousekeeping, and I don't generally concern myself with things like that.

However, this pool issue is completely different. I am not insisting on something additional, only what was sold to me. Maybe the private pool would not be a selling point for you, but it was for us.

If you stayed at a regular hotel and purchased a rate that was advertised daily breakfast, but then once you got there, they told you it was not included, wouldn't you be annoyed? What if they said, "But if we gave you that service, we would have to charge you a higher room rate to pay the servers"? Not your problem. It's a promise they shouldn't have made.

Now, let's assume your math is correct above. How much would $87,000 be divided by the millions of points available for sale at BLT? Pennies. And yes, I'd gladly pay it. But I shouldn't have to. It should have been factored into the original fee structure in the first place if they were going to market it as a feature of the resort.

Sorry, I can't agree that if BLT enforces the no pool hopping rule it will raise the MF. The DVC has already labeled it as a no pool hopping. Enforcing it while the gates are not working is part of management's job at BLT. For now they are trying to fix the gates (for most of the month), however, they need to take the next step and ensure that pool is for BLT guests only. If they can do it for the TOTW, they can figure out something for the pool. If in the end the gates do not stay fixed or do not prevent people sneaking in then DVC/BLT will have to decide what to do.

My point exactly. They called it no pool hopping in their sales pitch. It's not me just saying, 'wouldn't it be nice, if..."

One question--has the additional people who are pool hopping made the pool more crowded? If the pool is not consistently crowded, maybe is not worth the extra expense of assigning an employee to check keycards.

Yes, see my previous post about how we were unable to find chairs. And how the line for the side was 20 people long all day. During a time when not all of BLT is even declared yet. And it's not even peak season.

It's an issue.

BUT. Even if weren't, even if it was only my party and one other non-BLT party at the whole pool, I still stand by my statement above: DVC marketed this pool at BLT only, and they are not delivering on that.

To the later posters: I have already made my call and sent an email to member satisfaction. I wanted to talk about it here so that other owners might do the same if they were inconvenienced, too.

[pixie921]

Yes, see my previous post about how we were unable to find chairs. And how the line for the side was 20 people long all day. During a time when not all of BLT is even declared yet. And it's not even peak season.

It's an issue.

BUT. Even if weren't, even if it was only my party and one other non-BLT party at the whole pool, I still stand by my statement above: DVC marketed this pool at BLT only, and they are not delivering on that.

I agree with you 100%. The promise of a restricted-access pool was a big selling point for us. I mean, it's obvious there are lots of people who would love the idea of spending the day at MK, then picking up their pool stuff from a locker and monorail-ing it over to the BLT for some pool time before going back to the MK and then to their OWN resort later. That was a big concern for us 'til DVC promised there would be no access unless you were a registered BLT guest. If that's not going to be enforced, that's going to be a huge issue.

To the later posters: I have already made my call and sent an email to member satisfaction. I wanted to talk about it here so that other owners might do the same if they were inconvenienced, too.

Good for you. :thumbsup2 We will do the same if we see it happening on our trip.

[Sandisw]

They can regulate pool hopping at AKV and BLT and the members will pay for it in higher MF fees.
1 CM 12 hours/day @ $20/hr x 365 days = $87,600/year. $20/hr is not too much either. If anything it probably too low by $5-10. Granted the CM's get paid diddley, but once you figure in med Ins., Comp, Employers SS tax, Unemployment tax, supervision and personnel overhead, it adds up.

If it gets really bad then maybe they should, but do you really want to pay more if it's only a minor problem?

While we're on the subject...
* Housekeeping can be perfect
* No one will have accents
* Mickey can greet us at the front door
* Fresh flowers in room upon check-in

Just so long as we are willing to pay.

My point is if you say that the pool is restricted, then take the steps to restrict it. If you find that the cost to restrict it is too much, then make them pools that allow "pool hopping" and be done with it.

But, to tell people that buy or stay at BLT and AKV, for that matter, that the pools will be restricted and to just ignore those that are breaking the rules is wrong.

If it means they didn't allow for it into the current MF's structure, then build it in and be done with it. It is obviously built in to the costs of running BCV, so it can be done.

With BLT being so close to the MK, this will become a bigger problem in the future as the resort becomes more popular and becomes sold out.

As the OP said, if they sell it to us one way, we should expect it to be that way.

[amv1605]

Coming to BLT in Jan!! with a Lake View ... Had I known that a Standard View might offer views like that I would have tried for that -- Yay for You!

I'm renting points from someone else --- Does that Mean that I can access everything at BLT, including the Sky Louge for Wishes??

[pixie921]

Coming to BLT in Jan!! with a Lake View ... Had I known that a Standard View might offer views like that I would have tried for that -- Yay for You!

I'm renting points from someone else --- Does that Mean that I can access everything at BLT, including the Sky Louge for Wishes??

Only actual DVC members staying at BLT can access the Top of the World lounge (you have to show your membership card for confirmation), so unfortunately, as a renter, you won't have access.

[Chellymouse]

Sounds like it was awesome! DH and I are in the process of figuring out how to do an add-on and we were thinking about BLT. We toured the model in 12/09 and there is some definite advantage of being on the monorail line. Sorry to hear about the pool hopping. Almost wonder if it was all DVC members or if it was folks from other resorts as well. Glad to hear BLT is living up to the hype.

[photobob]

Personally I wish every pool on property, whether DVC or All Stars, were restricted to the guests of the given resort. I just don't think it is fair to someone staying at a resort to go the pool and not have a chair and some one staying elsewhere sitting in one. As a DVC member i haven't pool hopped, just doesn't seem convenient to me but it is not a perk I would mind losing for the greater good of everyone.

[pditullio]

Personally I wish every pool on property, whether DVC or All Stars, were restricted to the guests of the given resort. I just don't think it is fair to someone staying at a resort to go the pool and not have a chair and some one staying elsewhere sitting in one. As a DVC member i haven't pool hopped, just doesn't seem convenient to me but it is not a perk I would mind losing for the greater good of everyone.

I actually wouldn't mind that myself. I plan my vacations based on what resort we want to spend time at for that vacation. If we are going at a time of year when we are doing more swimming and less time in parks, we usually stay at BCV. When my DS was little and we were in MK more than other parks, we stayed at WVL for the proximity...etc.

But maybe I'd feel differently if we went for longer stays. We usually go for 5 days once or twice a year. I can see my kid wanting to try out a different pool if we were there for 14 days every other year (which is how some people use their points). I don't know.

Still, I like the idea of the equity in all of the pools being specific to their own guests. Seems like they'd have a much better handle on capacity that way.

[queenie82]

I actually wouldn't mind that myself. I plan my vacations based on what resort we want to spend time at for that vacation. If we are going at a time of year when we are doing more swimming and less time in parks, we usually stay at BCV. When my DS was little and we were in MK more than other parks, we stayed at WVL for the proximity...etc.

But maybe I'd feel differently if we went for longer stays. We usually go for 5 days once or twice a year. I can see my kid wanting to try out a different pool if we were there for 14 days every other year (which is how some people use their points). I don't know.

Still, I like the idea of the equity in all of the pools being specific to their own guests. Seems like they'd have a much better handle on capacity that way.
I'm being "welcomed home" for the first time this December and we are splitting our 14 night stay between 4 resorts because we want to try out various ones...but also based a bit on pool access. (AKV, BLT, BWV and BCV) [plus OKW for 2 separate nights]
I do like the idea of pool hopping myself and can see myself doing it a bit (probably on a non park day or waterpark day) but I'm also happy with some being restricted. Whatever the rule...fine...I will stick to it...

What they need to do is make a rule and STICK TO IT. It is that simple. We bought BLT because of the monorail line, proximity to MK and a few others and a RESTRICTED POOL was on that list so at the end of a long day a relaxing dip could be had knowing it wasn't going to be excessively crowded.

If ANY pool is listed as a non hopping pool they MUST STICK TO THEIR OWN RULE.
And they especially need to do this in the beginning so word doesn't get out and more and more try.

As for the Trip report...greatly appreciated. We are staying in a standard view studio in December. I'm so glad you enjoyed it.:yay:

[Sammie]

If you are not happy about the pool situation please let Member Services know. I have been told by management, that no one complains about the pool situations either to MS or Disney.

[OrlandoMike]

Only actual DVC members staying at BLT can access the Top of the World lounge (you have to show your membership card for confirmation), so unfortunately, as a renter, you won't have access.

Correct me if I am wrong, but if you are renting points from someone else wont your room key say "DVC member" on it? If that is the case, you will be allowed access to the Top of the World.

[nunzia]

Personally I wish every pool on property, whether DVC or All Stars, were restricted to the guests of the given resort. I just don't think it is fair to someone staying at a resort to go the pool and not have a chair and some one staying elsewhere sitting in one. As a DVC member i haven't pool hopped, just doesn't seem convenient to me but it is not a perk I would mind losing for the greater good of everyone.

I agree with this as well. This whole pool hopping thing seems like trouble waiting to happen. It was obviously a big deal at BCV or they wouldn't have restricted it. I guess I can see that people who visit alot would like to experience other pools, but it really does seem unfair that if you happen to stay in a resort with a desirable pool, you, the guest staying there, can't find a chair. And at BLT it's a bigger deal. You were TOLD it would be for BLT users, so it should be enforced. I'm one of those annoying rule followers, so I get miffed when others don't and more miffed when rules aren't enforced, since over time that just makes it not a rule. Line cutting anyone?
Anyway..all they have to do is enforce the rule, then word gets out and then the problem pretty much goes away.

[Sandisw]

Correct me if I am wrong, but if you are renting points from someone else wont your room key say "DVC member" on it? If that is the case, you will be allowed access to the Top of the World.

Yes, there is a great possibility that renters whose cards say "DVC" on them will be allowed up.

When we stayed there in August, we only had to show the KTTW card with DVC on it. I was asked if I was staying on points, since is said "DVC DDP" and not "DVC member". I told them that yes, I was there on my points.

They then escorted us up. I did not have to show my blue membership card. So, I think renters should go with the understanding that they will probably be allowed to use the lounge, but there is always a chance that they will not, as we all know, the rules can and will change over time.

[pixie921]

Yes, there is a great possibility that renters whose cards say "DVC" on them will be allowed up.

When we stayed there in August, we only had to show the KTTW card with DVC on it. I was asked if I was staying on points, since is said "DVC DDP" and not "DVC member". I told them that yes, I was there on my points.

They then escorted us up. I did not have to show my blue membership card. So, I think renters should go with the understanding that they will probably be allowed to use the lounge, but there is always a chance that they will not, as we all know, the rules can and will change over time.

Interesting. I was told that you had to show your actual membership card to gain access to the lounge. Ah well, another "random" enforcement situation. I guess we shouldn't be surprised.

[Sandisw]

Interesting. I was told that you had to show your actual membership card to gain access to the lounge. Ah well, another "random" enforcement situation. I guess we shouldn't be surprised.

I can say that they were holding firm to not allowing cash guests up. And, the one person that was trying was not happy.

[pditullio]

I can say that they were holding firm to not allowing cash guests up. And, the one person that was trying was not happy.

I saw an exchange like this, too. The person was trying to tell the CM that he "was told" when he made his reservation that he would be able to use the Lounge. To her credit, she did not cave. She called a manager to come down and talk to him, and he came just as we left to be escorted up. We were up there for a while, and they were not allowed up.

[5forDiz]

Correct me if I am wrong, but if you are renting points from someone else wont your room key say "DVC member" on it? If that is the case, you will be allowed access to the Top of the World.

At the moment, the policy states "DVC Members & their guests" and it would seem that if the Member reserves a villa on points at BLT for their "guest" but DVC is not specifically stating that a renter is not considered a guest in this circumstance then that renter may in fact have access to TOWL.


Interesting. I was told that you had to show your actual membership card to gain access to the lounge. Ah well, another "random" enforcement situation. I guess we shouldn't be surprised.

If I rented my points to someone for them to stay at BLT I wouldn't offer them any promises that they could acces TOWL because it does not seem clear to me at least that even if they produced KTTW card with DVC Member on it that they would not be asked to show blue membership card.





With BLT being so close to the MK, this will become a bigger problem in the future as the resort becomes more popular and becomes sold out.



This statement imo is painting with a very broad brush. I can't say I recall hearing that pool at Contemporary Resort has big problem with MK guests wandering over to use it and it's virtually same distance to MK as BLT & probably can be considered more convenient since monorail stops inside CR. Just because BLT is new doesn't make its pool any more attractive than any other resort's in close proximity to park. And over at BCV & AKV Jambo/Kidani how CMs & lifeguards deal with non-guests attempting to pool hop will work just as well over at BLT.

:)

[pditullio]

I can't say I recall hearing that pool at Contemporary Resort has big problem with MK guests wandering over to use it and it's virtually same distance to MK as BLT & probably can be considered more convenient since monorail stops inside CR.

1) CR isn't a restricted pool.

2) I can't speak for the other posters on the board, but I wasn't speaking specifically to a concern about MK guests, just non-BLT guests in general. Who aren't supposed to be there.


And over at BCV & AKV Jambo/Kidani how CMs & lifeguards deal with non-guests attempting to pool hop will work just as well over at BLT.

Yes! Exactly! We all agree.
That's what we are saying. But 'the way they deal with non-guests at BCV' is not happening at AKV and BLT.

[5forDiz]

1) CR isn't a restricted pool.

2) I can't speak for the other posters on the board, but I wasn't speaking specifically to a concern about MK guests, just non-BLT guests in general. Who aren't supposed to be there.




Yes! Exactly! We all agree.
That's what we are saying. But 'the way they deal with non-guests at BCV' is not happening at AKV and BLT.


1) Like I said, what's this perceived draw to BLT's pool about when there is CR's, Polynesian's, GF's, etc where pool hopping is allowed ?....majority of members play by the rules & wouldn't put themselves & their family/guests in a position of being asked to leave a pool they should not be at because hopping isn't permitted there.

2) I understand your concern about no pool hopping being enforced & I agree completely that it should be & it is made clear enough to members at least that unless you're staying on points at those particular resorts the pool is off limits but I also think presuming because it was crowded that means there's a large number of non-BLT guests there is a stretch.... a studio, 1 bedroom & 2 bedroom at max occupancy at BLT equals 18 guest or 21 if there's a child under 3 in each and that's just the math for 3 units so on a hot summer afternoon the pool area is going to seem overcrowded at BLT (and most every resort).


:)

[locodemickey]

I think I read here that locals go to use the desired pools sometimes. The whole pool hopping (or pool snatching) has got to stop! I can't believe that in a previous post someone wrote that no one ever says anything to MS or management. It seems like there would be many complaints.

[pditullio]

...I also think presuming because it was crowded that means there's a large number of non-BLT guests there is a stretch.... a studio, 1 bedroom & 2 bedroom at max occupancy at BLT equals 18 guest or 21 if there's a child under 3 in each and that's just the math for 3 units so on a hot summer afternoon the pool area is going to seem overcrowded at BLT (and most every resort).


I think if you look back at the whole conversation, you'll see that my observations about pool hopping during our stay were not based solely on the fact that it was crowded. :confused3

[Sammie]

I think I read here that locals go to use the desired pools sometimes. The whole pool hopping (or pool snatching) has got to stop! I can't believe that in a previous post someone wrote that no one ever says anything to MS or management. It seems like there would be many complaints.

It was me, and I think what happens was it gets discussed here alot but not shared with Disney and DVC.

Also I think it bothers a small portion of the total guests.

[awilliams4]

They can regulate pool hopping at AKV and BLT and the members will pay for it in higher MF fees.
1 CM 12 hours/day @ $20/hr x 365 days = $87,600/year. $20/hr is not too much either. If anything it probably too low by $5-10. Granted the CM's get paid diddley, but once you figure in med Ins., Comp, Employers SS tax, Unemployment tax, supervision and personnel overhead, it adds up.

If it gets really bad then maybe they should, but do you really want to pay more if it's only a minor problem?

While we're on the subject...
* Housekeeping can be perfect
* No one will have accents
* Mickey can greet us at the front door
* Fresh flowers in room upon check-in

Just so long as we are willing to pay.

If there was a manager there telling guests the gate was broken (another post on this thread) then that manager can also stand at the gate and check for room keys. I suspect that there is always one BLT CM standing around that can be available for this. If BLT is paying for two CMs over at check in at the Contemporary, when the gate is broke, send one of them over to monitor it. I will just wait an extra 10 minutes to check in!

[awilliams4]

Pditullio,

Thanks for the thread. Even though I have not stayed there yet (owner though) I have emailed MS:

Hello.

I haven't stayed at BLT yet but I have heard from several DVC Members that have and they mentioned that the gate at the pool at BLT is broke and pool hoppers (several, enough to be concerned) are getting access. I heard that a CM was telling guests the gate was broken at the pool. Without knowing all the details, a couple of suggestions. If there is a CM available to tell guests that the gate is broke, I would think that a CM can be available to check room keys to keep out Pool Hoppers. If DVC Member Maintenance Fees are paying for two CMs over at the Check In at the Contemporary and the gate is broke, send one of them over to monitor the pool and check for room keys. I will gladly wait an extra 10-15 minutes to check in. I was told that the pool was exclusive when I bought points but I am finding out that is not the case. This is Disney, I am confident they can figure out a way to keep to their commitments and keep Pool Hoppers out of the BLT pool.

Thank you.

[amyngary]

It seems a bit suspicious to me that both gates broke so soon after opening and are taking so long to get fixed. If it happened at Kidani, wouldn't that have been a "lesson learned" during the BLT project?

So, I wonder if this is somewhat purposeful on Disney's part to market the new resorts? Perhaps they will do this while it is at a lower capacity and then miraculously fix the broken gate and enforce it. Meanwhile, they may score some cash ressies or even some new DVC owners who pool hopped and wanted to be in that resort for future trips.

Just a thought....

[jstarcze]

Also, are there outlets near the table? Is that also where the internet connection is?

The internet connection was under the table across from the sleeper sofa.

[jstarcze]

Only actual DVC members staying at BLT can access the Top of the World lounge (you have to show your membership card for confirmation), so unfortunately, as a renter, you won't have access.

In my August stay I did find possible loop hole in this. Any BLT guest that has a room on the 16th floor can access the lounge without going to the reservation desk. I was on the 16th floor and did the proper thing and went to the 1st floor desk. As I was walking to the elevator with the CM I asked her if anything would prevent me from just walking over to the TOWL from my room. She responded: "No but we would like you to still register with the desk."

So technically if they give a 16th floor room to a renter or a cash reservation, then they could access the lounge. :rolleyes1

[cyndixo]

We are at BLT now - 1 bedroom standard view - 5th floor view to left is Magic Kingdom and Space Mountain to right Bay lake awesome view love it - absolutely fabulous. I will give room no after we check out and post pics.

[WalterYensid]

1) That's what we are saying. But 'the way they deal with non-guests at BCV' is not happening at AKV and BLT.

1) Stormalong Bay is at the Beach Club not the BCV and was a gated pool long before BCV was built.
2) Pool hopping can occur at SAB even with the security that they have in place. When we stay at BCV we are not always asked for ID when entering SAB.
3) The cost to maintain SAB and keep out non- YC BC BCV pool hoppers is borne by all three resorts. There are 583 BC rooms 630 YC rooms and 205 BCV rooms. This makes BCV financially responsible for about 14% of that cost if the breakdown is by room percentage.
4) The cost to patrol SAB at the BC/YC/BCV is split over 1428 rooms. On the other hand, BLT is 295-428 rooms total meaning it would cost 3 to 4 times as much per room to patrol the pool area.
5) BLT just opened and they have some design/maintenance problems. They will get them fixed. It may be fixed promptly or it may take awhile depending on what Facilities decides is necessary to fix it. This is all totally normal.
6) This will straighten itself out in time. Enjoy your stay at BLT, smell the flowers, say Hi! to Mickey, and everything will work out. Life is too short to sweat the small stuff.

[WalterYensid]

It seems a bit suspicious to me that both gates broke so soon after opening and are taking so long to get fixed. If it happened at Kidani, wouldn't that have been a "lesson learned" during the BLT project?

These resorts (and the pool gates) were designed years ago and both have just opened within just months of each other. Suspicious? Lesson learned? I don't think so.
You also say they are "taking so long to get fixed". The resort has only been open a month. It's a billion dollar hotel. Their are a lot of operational and maintenance issues they are dealing with because it's new. Everything has a priority. They will get it fixed. It's not like the whole pool is broken.

[WalterYensid]

If BLT is paying for two CMs over at check in at the Contemporary, when the gate is broke, send one of them over to monitor it.
There are union rules to abide by. CM's don't hop from position to position and they don't have the proper uniforms for working the pool area. Managers are way too busy to go stand out at the pool just for pool hoppers.

pool hoppers (several, enough to be concerned) are getting access.
Is there any proof that anyone actually is pool hopping? Has someone confronted a suspected pool hopper? Has anyone seen multiple instances of pool hoppers being thrown out? I'm sure that a few people have snuck into BLT and have tried out the pool but I really doubt that it is a big problem. It's just a small pool and a slide. It's not a mini water park like SAB.

Another thing, you havn't even stayed there and you're making a complaint to MS. "I was told that the pool was exclusive" "pool hoppers" "the gate is broken". If enough people complain like this, BLT just might shut the pool to everyone until the gates are fixed because there are still two other pools and a hot tub at CR for guests to use.

[Charleneluvsdisney]

I was at the BLT the same week as the original OP. We went to the pool 4 times throughout our stay. I can only say that we were ususally there after 3o'clock and only experienced one time during the 4 that we had trouble finding chairs. And, that was because people left towels on chairs and were not actually using them. I just asked a few of the people who were actually in chairs if they were being used. We never waited more than 4-5 people for the slide either.

I don't know what time the original OP was at the pool, so maybe that is why their experience was different. And on a last note, we checked out of the BLT on Friday, but our flight home was not until 6 p.m. I am sure people thought my family was a bunch of pool hoppers because we had to use the restrooms to change into our pool attire!

[Magic4Four]

We just returned from BLT and both gates around the pool did not require a card to open. No one was monitoring the coming and goings of guests. We walked over to the Contemporary pool, then back over to the BLT pool area. No one asked us for any card. If the locks were "broken" how about a temporary solution like a bracelet or stamp? If they really wanted to enforce the "exclusivity" of the BLT pool, they would come up with something very quickly. Afterall, this is Disney, they have a solution for everything else!!

BTW - No one is monitoring the access to the skyway bridge between the two resorts either. One person with a key is all it takes and 20 people without keys can file in behind them with no questions asked. That we did see happen and some people who were just curious about the BLT, took their own private tour of it. Really, what is the point of all of these locks if no one is there to enforce them?

[Scrappy_Tink]

They can regulate pool hopping at AKV and BLT and the members will pay for it in higher MF fees.
1 CM 12 hours/day @ $20/hr x 365 days = $87,600/year. $20/hr is not too much either. If anything it probably too low by $5-10. Granted the CM's get paid diddley, but once you figure in med Ins., Comp, Employers SS tax, Unemployment tax, supervision and personnel overhead, it adds up.

If it gets really bad then maybe they should, but do you really want to pay more if it's only a minor problem?

While we're on the subject...
* Housekeeping can be perfect
* No one will have accents
* Mickey can greet us at the front door
* Fresh flowers in room upon check-in

Just so long as we are willing to pay.

Maybe that's why BLT is going up to $120 per point in October. :confused:

[d23]

We just returned from BLT and both gates around the pool did not require a card to open. No one was monitoring the coming and goings of guests. We walked over to the Contemporary pool, then back over to the BLT pool area. No one asked us for any card. If the locks were "broken" how about a temporary solution like a bracelet or stamp? If they really wanted to enforce the "exclusivity" of the BLT pool, they would come up with something very quickly. Afterall, this is Disney, they have a solution for everything else!!

BTW - No one is monitoring the access to the skyway bridge between the two resorts either. One person with a key is all it takes and 20 people without keys can file in behind them with no questions asked. That we did see happen and some people who were just curious about the BLT, took their own private tour of it. Really, what is the point of all of these locks if no one is there to enforce them?

I think the skyway doors barring access to BLT are sufficient in keeping out non-BLT guests. And if someone just happens to wander in, what does it matter? All they have access to is a bunch of halls and toilets.

I could understand if there was a free buffet in the building, but there's nothing there but halls and toilets! Any non-guests would more than likely get bored after using the toilet a few times and walking the 15 hallways.

And the pool isn't THAT amazing either. The way people are asking for a 24 hour Bouncer, you'd think you were going to the Taj Mahal of pools! While there may be some minor pool hoping, I don't see it as a huge problem. Yes, the gate needs to be fixed, but don't have a cow - enjoy your vacation.

And to the original poster - if you are watching guests in the parking lot from your room get out of their car...you are a little too worried about the pool situation.

[pditullio]

And to the original poster - if you are watching guests in the parking lot from your room get out of their car...you are a little too worried about the pool situation.

I was sitting on my second-floor balcony having a beer! Geez.


And the pool isn't THAT amazing either. The way people are asking for a 24 hour Bouncer, you'd think you were going to the Taj Mahal of pools! While there may be some minor pool hoping, I don't see it as a huge problem. Yes, the gate needs to be fixed, but don't have a cow - enjoy your vacation.


I don't think it matters if it's a great pool or a crappy pool. If I'm staying at resort I'd just like to be able to put my towel down on a chair. Also, it's quite a stretch to assume I didn't enjoy my vacation just because I expressed a concern over one issue. Sorry for subjecting you to it.

[queenie82]

As for people filing behind...it is up to the BLT guest using their card to stop this from happening.
I use swipe cards to get into computer labs and I ensure I don't get followed in because we all suffer if someone stuffs up the room...