How wrong is this??

[Plan Man]

I want to make a reservation for 4 people me, wife kids. except we area family of six (four kids) What do you think will happen since almost all the resorts only allow four people>

[Nolcrest]

Well, personally I think it's wrong but I guess I'm wondering if your motivation is to be able to have everyone in one room. The Fort Wilderness cabins comfortably accommodate 6. Are any of the kids using a crib?

[mykidsmom]

I've always felt bad for families of more than four. Especially when the children are young. Most hotels will tell you they can't guarantee you adjoining rooms. So then your only options seem to be the home away from homes. Which are very nice, but expensive.

[Karel]

If you have young kids, Disney will guarantee you connecting rooms.

Go with two rooms at the All Stars, you'll need the space.
A moderate will be tight with that many people and for the price of a deluxe, you might as well be honest and go to All Stars. For one night, we did squish everyone into one room - it was Thanksgiving and we had to move from All Stars because it was booked that night and this literally was the only room on property that was affordable. My son, to this day, will not let me forget - my own little Jiminy Cricket. I would do it again in dire circumstances but that's about it.

[epcotfan]

Due to fire code laws 6 people would be exceeding capacity in most resorts. I recall in one instance a family of 8 was found in one room at Caribbean Beach. They were asked to leave because it broke firecode laws. Your best bet would be to get two rooms at the All-Stars if money is an issue or a Cabin at Fort Wilderness as per the other poster's suggestion.

[Simba's Mom]

We're a family that had 3 young kids (several years ago), stayed at Fort Wilderness. Highly recommend it for families-we loved it!

[joepoe]

Why stop at six? Why not bring your dogs and the neighbor kids too? You can hang your wash on the balcony. Make sure you don't waste time taking a shower 'cause you can always wash off in the pool as you pool hop everywhere.

[regi]

What a rude post, joepoe.

[beccab]

Adding another room to a reservation is a considerable expense so I certainly understand this post. Not sure of the answer but maybe the Fort Wilderness cabin is the way to go. Have heard many good things about this resort. The previous comments were unkind & snobbish.

[joepoe]

Originally posted by regi
What a rude post, joepoe.

I'm having a day. Sorry. But I do feel strongly about overcrowding rooms. Especially if I have to stay next to or below them and I am trying to sleep at night. I knock on the door to comlain and there are 6 sleeping bags on the floor and kids everywhere. Then they deny they are making noise. Then the front desk doesn't do anything about it. (Did not happen at Disney)

[beccab]

I agree with your last post joepoe but the way you put it was less than kind, IMO.

[Steffi]

I don't think it's awful...I completely understand wanting to save a few bucks if it's not hurting anyone. But since it IS a vacation, I'd say pick the cabins or adjoining All Stars rooms like the other posters suggested, for comfort reasons. We only have one child, and by the end of our vacations, she seems to take up the WHOLE room...I can't imagine sharing a small space with four of her. Plus, it really would be awful to be "caught" (I don't know if this ever happens) and asked to leave! It's your decision, of course...I won't tell on you if I'm in the room next to you;)

[regi]

Well, joepoe, I do understand having "those days". Been there, done that.;)

[Lewisc]

I want to make a reservation for 4 people me, wife kids. except we area family of six No problem if you plan on leaving 2 family members behind:D Otherwise I suggest you stay in a place that's designed for a family your size. Two rooms in a value resort, For Wilderness cabins, off-site suite hotels, off-site vacation homes and off site condos will all accomodate your family and shouldn't cost much more than 1 moderate room.

[merryweather's twin]

Hi ! we are a family of 6 and we stay in 1 room at the deluxes but we have 2 kids under 3yo. We stay in the deluxes becouse the monorail ones have day- trundle beds in the room. So that makes 5 bed spaces and then the 8 month old is in a crib and all is well. If budget is a factor and you have young kids like us try the codes!! We rented a house in June and we loved it also. We got our house for 560. with all taxes and fees for 7 nights on www.VRBO.com . Disney will let 6 in a room if 2 are under 3yo. I would not try 6 in one room at the AS or most of the moderates with no trundle bed. I hope this helps.:D

[confal1]

I don't know when you are going but the woman I work with had 2 rooms booked over Easter at BC for 950.00 total but she called today and was able to book the Beach Club Villas 2 bedroom for 700.00 per night. Good Luck

[Plan Man]

Appreciate the comments - what a wonderful world -- all the different points of view. We won't do it - even though I would like to save the money. Kids learn by watching and my integrity i worth more than the room cost. We never even cheat on the age thing for entry into parks, zoo's, etc.

Of course at the end of the day it is the money. What we really want to do is stay at Poly or GF -- two rooms is so expensive for 7 days. We have been to some of the other resorts and they just don't seem as nice - nice yes - but not over the top great!!!

We will probably stay offsite and miss a little of the magic - stay in a room or rooms for our size.

But now that I have read Joepoe's comments - I'm considering the dog too. It only barks for a little while.........

[gepetto]

Would you consider something like one of the DVC resorts with higher occupancy limits? They run codes and specials at those too sometimes.:D

WL and CR have junior suites that they discount too. I'm not sure what the occupancy limit is in those though.:D

[susy]

When are you going???? I know that mousesavers.com has a great rate at Caribe Royale ( and probably will in the future) and my sister's kids just came back from WDW with their aunt. They had six at the Homewood Suites in LBV. The rate was $79 and they all had great things to say about this resort. These places even have free breakfast. Just a thought.

[Mich Mouse]

I completely understand the dilema, but must suggest that you not squish youf family of six into a room that accomodates less.

Last summer at POR Riverside we had a family that packed their entire extended family into the room next door. They had four loud children who they left alone in the room while the two adults went out. It was completely unfair to everyone vacationing around them. Even if the family is not loud, six people in a room creates other issues for Disney and neighbors. I'm sure you can think of them yourself.

Go for the resort that will accomodate everyone comfortably. Your neighbors will be thankful.

If you are visitng during the times that the codes are available, you can save a bundle on rooms at all different resorts. Good Luck and Have a Wonderful Vacatin.

[freediverdude]

Another option might be the Doubletree Guest Suites in Downtown Disney. I've stayed there recently and couldn't believe how huge those rooms were- they were literally two hotel rooms connected, not like those suite hotels where the front part of the room is a minikitchen or whatever. One side is a kitchen area with a dining table, and a living room area with couch (fold away bed), chair, cocktail table, and console tv, and then a desk with chair by the window! Then a large opening with folding doors to the other side, and it is either a King bed or two queens, with another tv inside an entertainment center, and then a huge built in set of drawers with the whole wall being a mirror over there, and then the bathroom with yet a 3rd tv! I don't know for sure because I don't know the square footage, but I've stayed in both this and All-stars, and it looked to me like this one suite was larger than two all-star rooms. Incredibly vaulted ceilings too, even more so than most hotels it seemed. No balconies at this hotel however. The price on this hotel seems to vary, but usually somewhere between 119 and 169 a night on sites such as Expedia. Anyway, just a thought.

[Luv2Roam]

Looks like you got some great advice with a few funnies thrown in. ;)
But besides your kids learning from your actions, I would agree on getting another place or two rooms.
It would be very crowded for your family and not enjoyable, IMHO.

[mousey]

Stay at the HIFS. It's perfect for a larger group and includes a
nice breakfast buffet. The Fl lottery promotion is still going on
making the room $109/night. A real bargain for a deluxe hotel.

[MosMom]

If one of your kids are still in a crib, you could stay in the Poly. The rooms sleep 5 and a crib. There are 2 queen beds and a day bed. Just a suggestion. =)

[connor69]

I know this will be an unpopular post but here it goes...clear your minds and try to walk a mile in my kids shoes.
We have 6 children (1 multiple birth). We love our family and the kids (ages 3 to 12) are very close and each others BEST friends. Everyday in our lives we scrimp and save...try to cut corners...share drinks and meals when we eat out. We don't have a big house, have a bedroom for each child or get to mindlessly go to a movie whenever we want. Yes, we wanted a big family and we knew this would be a way of life for us.

Going to Disney is a big deal for us. I don't feel that it is fair to my kids that i have to say no to..."Sorry we can't ever stay at the Wilderness because there are too many people in our family..or..Sorry kids, we can't ever see the animals at akl because there are too many of you you put in one room. Yes we can stay at all stars and get 2 rooms but my kids really wanted to see the 'fancy hotel" and stay there.
We will take 2 camping mattresses, have 2 queen beds. My kids have NO problem sharing bed space (in fact the twins insist on it) And yes we have done this before. As for noise, the way my family wears out after a long day we go to sleep quite quickly. Yes there will be a little more noise but not enough to know that we have 6 kids in one room. We take great pains not to intrude on the rooms around by being loud or obnoxious. As for the fire codes..yes we know they exist..in fact my hubby is a firefighter. We all know public servants do not get paid well enough for what they do. My children give up every 3rd day..for 24 hours... their dad... to go serve our community with fire protection. For all the scrimping we do during the other 51 weeks of the year I want to give my children 1 week of not having to watch our budgets and provide them with vacation magic.

[duck_adoo]

Kimberly,
That's a great post:) Lots of pixie dust to you and your family:) :)
Duck

[hmp2z]

I would definitely say, be honest with Disney about your situation. I think it would be wrong to try to "sneak" extra kids into the room, but if 2 of your children are under age 3, and Disney thus says that it's all right for you to all stay in one room, that wouldn't be a problem.
Another thing to consider is that if you're going on a plan, the room cards are the tickets, so if you tried to add more people in, they wouldn't have the tickets that everyone else in the family did.
As for connor69, I say that this is fine, as long as you're honest about the number of people in the room. But if it's a case where you are packing kids into a room without telling Disney about it, then it becomes an unethical situation. Yes, I understand that public servants are underpaid. Being a teacher, I sympathize. But, as you said, when you choose to have a large family, there are certain sacrifices that must be made. If it were me, making the choice between paying more for the appropriate # of adjoining hotel rooms, or setting a poor example for my children by being dishonest with Disney, I know which I'd choose.
Cheers!
Heather P

[erikthewise]

Plan Man,

I like the way you resolved the issue for yourself.

The issue of "How Wrong Is This?" comes up over and over again.
I always want to ask "How Wrong does it have to be?!" There are always other options that don't involve bending/breaking the rules.

Doubletree Suites near Downtown Disney has suites that hold six, at very reasonable rates.

[gepetto]

Originally posted by hmp2z
As for connor69, I say that this is fine, as long as you're honest about the number of people in the room. But if it's a case where you are packing kids into a room without telling Disney about it, then it becomes an unethical situation.
Cheers!
Heather P [/QUOTE]

There are plenty of off-site luxury condos that are actually cheaper than AKL and have a much higher occupancy level. AKL rooms are WAY too small to try to cram 8 people in. When you make your reservations, they ask you how many people will stay and the ages of everyone in your party. Are you going to lie about it?

[Sammie]

This comment is to no one person in particular, just a generalization about this never ending discussion. It is not intended to offend anyone just my opinion.

When the topic comes around to room occupancy levels, those with more than 4 in their family want everyone to feel sorry for them and allow them to bend the rules to accommidate more than the stated number of persons in the room. They always want understanding for not being able to afford the right accommidation for their family size.

Personally I don't see any difference in the fact that I can not afford a suite at the Grand Floridian. I would love that suite, but I just can not afford it. Do I think Disney should change the rate to accommidate me, No I don't. Do I think I should some how lie about my finanical status and get in the room anyway, no I don't. Do I think that everyone should feel sorry I can't stay there, no I don't.

I stay where I can afford, and I better never hear any one related to me complain about what I can afford. Believe me many children never even get to Orlando, and they would be thrilled to stay offsite.

Disney will ask the names of everyone in your party and believe me when you give them more than 4 names they will not book you one room at the Wilderness Lodge or Animal Kingdom Lodge. No room at Disney is worth lying over.

[connor69]

Most people with large families do not anyone to feel sorry for us or give us a free ride..just a little understanding would do.

[Nolcrest]

Plan Man - good attitude.

I grew up in a family of seven kids so I know what it's like trying to travel with a large family.

Dad, thanks for doing what was right and teaching all of us kids to abide by the rules/law regardless of what we felt we deserved and whether we felt they were right. ;)

[Luv2Roam]

I can sympathize with trying to save a buck on vacation. We all do.
But.... Agree "How wrong is this?" I don't think overcrowding a room is fair to anyone: the family or the other guests around them.
I came from a family of five kids. Back then, it wasn't that uncommon. And we sacrificed, and knew we were doing so at the time. But I don't recall my parents doing anything to make us ashamed about there being 5 of us kids.
You will do what you need to. I wouldn't lie. But that's easy for me to say when I don't have any kids (except the four legged kind I leave in a kennel -- that cost me as much as my stay at AS! ;) )
I am rubbed the wrong way when people say others don't feel sorry, give them a free ride, etc. Whose choice was it to have the kids? Disneys? The other guests? The room planner? Just enjoy them and be glad you have them. (Ok -- hope I don't get flamed. But...)
I agree with Sammie. I stay at the AS because so far my (one ;) ) experience has been great there. But let's face it. AS also fits much better in my budget.

[hulabird]

Ask when you call CRO, they let my sisters family of 5 stay in a standard room last year with no problem...oh and I agree, Joe was not very nice with his post. Bad Bad Joe! LOL

[JudithM]

I agree with Sammie & Luv2Roam. If your family is more than four guests, then one room at All Stars & most of the moderates is not an option. Two (or more) rooms would be an option. rules are not made to be broken - they are in place for a reason - fire code, wear & tear, noise, etc..

[Lil'Magic2000]

A few years ago, my family and I went to Disney with my just turned three year old sister. We, like so many others, did not purchase a ticket for her, and passed her off as two. This is a child who, at the time, weighed 20 pounds soaking wet, and ate so little, you'd think we were starving her. I have listened to my mom plan and plan and plan trips to Walt Disney (OUR trips are in the double digits-haha to all you "couple of time" visitors), and I also see nothing wrong with passing off your child as a two year old. There are just as many people who will pass their kid off as two and see nothing wrong with it as there are people who obviously have hundreds of dollars just lying around, and are willing to pay for their three year old to ride the five or six rides that she is allowed to go on or doesn't scare the living daylights out of her. Next year, when your child is pushing four, then you can see about buying a ticket.

[gepetto]

Originally posted by Lil'Magic2000
A few years ago, my family and I went to Disney with my just turned three year old sister. We, like so many others, did not purchase a ticket for her, and passed her off as two. This is a child who, at the time, weighed 20 pounds soaking wet, and ate so little, you'd think we were starving her. I have listened to my mom plan and plan and plan trips to Walt Disney (OUR trips are in the double digits-haha to all you "couple of time" visitors), and I also see nothing wrong with passing off your child as a two year old. There are just as many people who will pass their kid off as two and see nothing wrong with it as there are people who obviously have hundreds of dollars just lying around, and are willing to pay for their three year old to ride the five or six rides that she is allowed to go on or doesn't scare the living daylights out of her. Next year, when your child is pushing four, then you can see about buying a ticket.


????? how does that equate with someone trying to cram 8 people into a room at AKL where the occupancy limit is 4?

[Cris]

I also agree with Sammie & Luv2Roam. I want to do a lot of things in life but if I cannot afford it I do the next best thing. occupancy levels are made for safety not for disney to make more money off your family. Even with these codes you could get two moderate rooms for a price of a deluxe resort room.

[jldriscoll]

Originally posted by Lil'Magic2000
A few years ago, my family and I went to Disney with my just turned three year old sister. We, like so many others, did not purchase a ticket for her, and passed her off as two. This is a child who, at the time, weighed 20 pounds soaking wet, and ate so little, you'd think we were starving her. I have listened to my mom plan and plan and plan trips to Walt Disney (OUR trips are in the double digits-haha to all you "couple of time" visitors), and I also see nothing wrong with passing off your child as a two year old. There are just as many people who will pass their kid off as two and see nothing wrong with it as there are people who obviously have hundreds of dollars just lying around, and are willing to pay for their three year old to ride the five or six rides that she is allowed to go on or doesn't scare the living daylights out of her. Next year, when your child is pushing four, then you can see about buying a ticket.

I am speachless...from the tone of your post it sounds like Disney was an inconvience to your family. Why bother then?

I think it crosses every family's mind, if only we could "get away with this" (for lack of a better phrase this early in the moring :) ) but the vast majority of us step up and do the right thing because we are roll models for those young folks we consider breaking the rules for and because IT"S THE RIGHT THING TO DO!!!

PlanMan, your response to your own question impressed me (but please don't get the dog ;) ) You are a man with a lot of intergity!!

[hobbs28]

Go with the wilderness cabins we just booked them for 144 a night which would be cheaper than two rooms at any resort besides all star. Plus you get a kitchen and its the best place at disney to stay.

Hobbs28

[anne60]

Plan Man - being honest about ages in restaurants/ theme parks, etc. does indeed pay off. I now have 2 teenagers who cannot lie to save their lives, not even about something as inconsequential as "did you brush your teeth". I firmly believe it is because their parents have always told the truth, even if it cost. Can I also say that I got a real laugh out of the "maybe we'll bring the dog" reply!!! Lastly, I do think that Disney should make a better effort for those families with 3 and 4 kids. If Port Orleans Riverside is full, you are pretty much sc**wed. It would have been nice if some of POP century had rooms for 5 or 6 for the same price as POR, just to give folks an option.

[BibbidiBobbidiBOO]

Connor69, so you do put 8 people in one room at AKL? I was unsure what I read?? What do the maids say about all the mattresses on the floor and extra towels? I am not attacking you;) , just curious. We have 2 kids, so I cannot imagine. I think I would go with 2 rooms at the Allstars and 2 bathrooms. Is this what you did on your past trips to WL and AKL? What do you all do at check-in? I mean do they see 8 of you standing there? I just know 2 of my kids in a room at WL was plenty, not even sure how 2 mattresses would fit! :)

[hmp2z]

Originally posted by connor69
Most people with large families do not anyone to feel sorry for us or give us a free ride..just a little understanding would do.

Connor69, Understanding is one thing - yes, I'm sure there are PLENTY of challenges to having 6 children. Condoning a family breaking the rules is quite another thing. As someone else on the list rightly said, so many families, mine included when I was a child, NEVER get to make a trip to WDW. Instead of being bitter at what you can't afford, and lying to try to get it, why not take advantage of other options like a Ft Wilderness Cabin, a DVC villa, or 2 adjoining rooms at All Stars, or even going off site to one of those large suites? We got a HUGE 1 bedroom suite at the Summerfield Suites there for $50 through Priceline, which is considerably less than the All Star Resorts.
And, again, consider that having a large family is entirely your choice, even including multiple births, which are always a possibility, albeit a remote one usually. With the choice to have a large familiy, comes the fact that the family must now set certain priorities. Do you really want your children to grow up thinking it's okay to lie, b/c the world somehow owes you a deluxe hotel room simply because you have a big family?
Cheers!
Heather P

[Wonderlandmom]

That first episode of the Brady Bunch always DID bug me. On Mike and Carols honeymoon, they leave and get the 6 kids and then Alice, the dog and cat all arrive and they march up the stairs to the check-in attendants horror:eek: ! Did not even ask for another room!:smooth: Was just a TV show, but seems to be happening in real life!
Some of the people that are doing this ARE AP holders and go several times a year. So maybe money is not an issue:confused: !

[ripleysmom]

IMHO 8 people in a room meant for 4 is just not right. I really think that you should look for more appropriate accommodations even if it means staying off-site. You can always go visit any of the places that you listed and have dinner or shop.

If you really like the experience of staying on-site then consider purchasing DVC or renting points. At least then you would have appropriate accommodations.

[Lisa3]

I have been reading this thread for days and just had to jump in. We are a family of 5 and yes I do beleive children learn what they see. We understand very clearly what it means to sacrifice and live within our means. I sometimes marvel at some of the posts who think nothing of spending $300 and up per night. We know we can't do that and probably never will. I am not looking for sympathy, it's just the way things are and I count my blessings that I can even consider giving my children the magic of Disney and a family vacation once in a while.

I was however dissappointed to know that AKL and WL would never be an option for our family (my 8 year old loves giraffes). I realize that there are safety reasons for occupancy limits but is boggles my mind that Disney can put a trundle in POR and not in any of the other resorts where the rooms are larger! In these resorts I would have to book a deluxe room which is never given the same discounts as many of you are enjoying. As far as comfort, it is a personal judgement call whether a family of 5 would be just a comfortable as a family of 3 in a 400 sf space (larger than POR). (Don't jump all over this I also do not agree on cramming 8 people into a room meant for 4).

Large families are also not looking for special treatment or special discounts. Disney does offer some special groups of people special discounts (teachers, SOG). Maybe Disney should eliminate the special treatment they receive? After all it was their choice to go into those professions just as it was my choice to have 3 children (before you shoot me I do not think Disney should change their policy for teachers or SOG).

I think WDW really needs to evaluate whether or not everyone is being treated fairly and given the same options and special treatment no matter how big or small the family. And I agree with the post who wants to show her family a "deluxe" vacation. If children only every see what is within their current means they may never strive to a higher goal. Sorry this is so looooong!

[joepoe]

Originally posted by ripleysmom
... 8 people in a room meant for 4 ....

May I also suggest Doubletree suites- very close to DD where you can take Disney transportation everywhere-as an alternative, try Marriott Residence Inn. A 2 BR with kitchen and 2 baths is very reasonable, and they have a pool.

For what it is worth, I come from a family of five kids. My dad was a carpenter and money was always tight. We were raised to say 'please', 'thank you' and ''excuse me' and play by the rules. I could not go to Disney until I was 41 yrs old. Now our family of five are DVC owners and enjoy BWV and OKW on a regular basis. I do not care that much if another family's room is overcrowded unless they disturb me and my family and our hard-earned enjoyment of the magic. And that is what would happen if Disney just let as many people in a room as desired. The Fire Dept in Orlando would certainly frown on such practice. But you go ahead and do what you feel is necessary. Getting away with stuff seems to be the American Way.

[Karel]

Originally posted by Lil'Magic2000
A few years ago, my family and I went to Disney with my just turned three year old sister. We, like so many others, did not purchase a ticket for her, and passed her off as two. This is a child who, at the time, weighed 20 pounds soaking wet, and ate so little, you'd think we were starving her. I have listened to my mom plan and plan and plan trips to Walt Disney (OUR trips are in the double digits-haha to all you "couple of time" visitors), and I also see nothing wrong with passing off your child as a two year old. There are just as many people who will pass their kid off as two and see nothing wrong with it as there are people who obviously have hundreds of dollars just lying around, and are willing to pay for their three year old to ride the five or six rides that she is allowed to go on or doesn't scare the living daylights out of her. Next year, when your child is pushing four, then you can see about buying a ticket.


Unbelievable. First, this is about sticking too many people in the room, not 'should I buy a ticket.'... that's another thread elswhere. And laughing at people who don't visit Disney that much - that's really mature of you. They probably can't afford to go numerous times because they are honest and buy that ticket for a three year old - because THAT'S the rule. It's lying and dishonest to do otherwise and I feel very sorry for you if you can't see that those qualities are wrong. Are you going to use the 'everybody does it' excuse for the rest of your life?

And as one who's taken younger children to WDW, there's plenty of things and a lot more than 'five or six' rides for them to do - probably more so than older children. What are you going to do when she turns 10 - not buy an adult ticket for her ?

[joepoe]

Originally posted by ripleysmom
... 8 people in a room meant for 4 ....

May I also suggest Doubletree suites- very close to DD where you can take Disney transportation everywhere-as an alternative, try Marriott Residence Inn. A 2 BR with kitchen and 2 baths is very reasonable, and they have a pool.

For what it is worth, I come from a family of five kids. My dad was a carpenter and money was always tight. We were raised to say 'please', 'thank you' and ''excuse me' and play by the rules adn mostly because we learned by EXAMPLE from our parents to do so! I could not go to Disney until I was 41 yrs old. Now our family of five are DVC owners and enjoy BWV and OKW on a regular basis. I do not care that much if another family's room is overcrowded unless they disturb me and my family and our hard-earned enjoyment of the magic. And that is what would happen if Disney just let as many people in a room as desired. The Fire Dept in Orlando would certainly frown on such practice. But you go ahead and do what you feel is necessary. Getting away with stuff seems to be the American Way.

[Wonderlandmom]

FYI-Teacher discounts are only at Swan and Dolphin which is not owned by WDW. Same for SOG, that is a Military owned resort.:)

[jennymouse]

I read the article in the last Disney Magazine about the Wilderness Cabins and they sound awsome to me. I've also read a couple trip reports of people who've stayed there, and they thought it was Disney's best kept secret! I've never seen them but if I had 6 people, I sure wouldn't mind trying them out. There's all kinds of free night time activities for families in addition to the ammenities offered at the moderates. Plus, there a kitchen which would be convienance and cost saving for families. Sounds much better than cramming 8 people into a room.

BTW, I don't fall for the "woe is me, I can't stay where I want, so I have to lie" bit either. I want to stay in The Presidential Suite at AKL, but I can't afford it. I sure don't expect anyone to feel sorry for me. If you choose to have that many kids, either you have to earn enought to live the way you want to live or make sacrifices. That's life.

[Jordan's MOM]

I think it is about making choices that you can afford. There are lots of smaller families that can not afford to do a Deluxe and yes many who will never be able to afford a WDW vacation at all. We have in the past stayed at ASMo because that is what fit our budget. We are planning our first deluxe resort trip after many years of waiting to be able to afford that. It would be no more right for a large family to be dishonest in order at stay at a place they can not afford than it would be for a smaller family to 'cheat " in order to stay at a different resort or to even get to go at all. I always remind my DS that WDW is a privlage that 95% of the world never get to have. My advice is to plan, save, bidget and then stay where you can afford to do so honestly.

Jordan's mom

[Lisa3]

Sorry for the misinformation about teacher and SOG discounts in my earlier post (I will learn to be more informed). I guess I got the wrong idea from some of the posts who stated that they have stayed SOG at the Contemporary. I apologize.

I should have just stayed with my question on why trundles are not offered in larger standard rooms than POR and the fact that deluxe rooms are rarely, if ever, discounted (sometimes I get on a roll).

I also feel it is important to follow the rules and tell the truth. On our last trip it frustrated me to have to pay for a meal my 4 year old would not eat but I paid for him at every meal so my other children could enjoy the Disney Character Meals.

I do however feel that no one should sit in judgement of how many children are in a family and state that they should just be happy with what they have or assume they can work harder. As I have gotten older I have learned not to criticize other's choices or situations. You have no way of knowing what circumstances have lead up to a person's financial or family situation.

[Luv2Roam]

Hi Lisa3 - Glad for your input. :)
Not to come off sounding bad, but I don't recall reading here where any one posted others should not have 5 kids, or any kids at all. And guess I don't recall anyone mentioning about anyone working harder or not working hard enough. :confused:
However many kids people want, that's their business. But I don't think they should expect lower rates or free tickets because they have several kids. Or should they get their own group rate? ;) :jester:
I do agree that I would think Disney would offer more rooms with trundle beds. But even at that, I would think five + in a room is really pushing the limits. The rooms aren't that big really. Doesn't sound like a pleasurable vacation to me. ;)

[hmp2z]

Originally posted by Lisa3
I do however feel that no one should sit in judgement of how many children are in a family and state that they should just be happy with what they have or assume they can work harder. As I have gotten older I have learned not to criticize other's choices or situations. You have no way of knowing what circumstances have lead up to a person's financial or family situation.
I don't think that anyone here is criticizing the # of children in a family; rather, it's more a criticism of the attitude "I chose to have 6 kids, so now it's okay to lie to get what I want." No one is suggesting that anyone work harder to stay at a deluxe resort; as I said, it 's more a matter of priorities. Rather than lie and try to cram 8 people into one hotel room, perhaps the family in question could either look into one of the many alternatives suggested by others on this board or else cut down on the number of trips to WDW until they can afford the correct # of hotel rooms.
WDW isn't a right, and neither is staying in a deluxe resort. It's a privilege that many, many families will NEVER enjoy. So I don't buy the excuse that rather than saving and prioritizing, certain families HAVE to lie, b/c they deserve to cram the 8 people into one room.
And the excuse that the husband is a firefighter is absolutely ridiculous. Last I heard, there was no such thing as a career chip implanted at birth, forcing anyone into certain jobs. My family didn't have much money when I was a child, b/c my father CHOSE to be a construction worker, just as I CHOOSE to be a teacher. And it's very kind of certain hotels like Swan & Dolphin to acknowledge those in service careers like teaching, but, again, this is something the hotel chooses to do, and not a right that I'd expect at all (doesn't really affect me, as we always stay in Disney resorts which don't offer similar discounts).
It's not the personal family circumstances that are being criticized - I grew up great friends with a girl who came from a family of 12, speaking of large families! But, as ethical human beings, they certainly never lied to try to get what they couldn't afford themselves. Either you earn your vacations or you win the lottery, but lying is never an acceptable alternative to just paying your own way.
Cheers!
Heather P

[Disneydenise]

You had to know tht this thread was going to spark the moral police. Disney does make mistakes too. When my son was 9 YO he was charged adult price at the buffet breakfast at the BC/YC. he was not tall or large for his age. I think that it is difficult to guess the age of a child unless you have alot of contact with children of a particular age. Of course my DD who was 11 got charged the childs price. Go figure, Rules are rules. I do find it very odd that at all the hotel chains that I have stayed at the only place I have to pay for my 18 YO is in DW. She is still considered a child at the Holiday Inn and the Marriot. It really is alot easier to tell the truth than to tell a lie but I really don't think I should be the one to judge other peoples action. That gets rather exhausting. I have often wondered why they think that AB at the POR is a safer place to stick 5 people in. I also think that the day bed at the Poly and the other deluxe resorts is the same size bed I slept in until I got married and moved out of my parents house. They have wierd rules at Disney and I don't think it is any more or less safety conscious than a hotel at the shore or other resort area. I was just at a hotel in NJ and the room was quite small and old but the occupancy was for 6 people. It was not as nice as a Disney resort room.

[susy]

To the original poster-Are you still around???

I really think you cannot go wrong with 2 rooms at the All Stars or a "suites" hotel off site.

You can be squished together in an expensive room in a deluxe or have more room and the knowledge that you did the right thing in a very nice resort- yes, I am talking about the AS!

We may be taking my niece and nephew in Nov. It would be DH, myself, DS (4), niece (13), and nephew (16). That's five of us and I have considered all the options. I think Poly GV concierge would be great and would possibly save us on some food. POR is also a possibility. Two rooms at the AS is probably what we will do. It will give us the most room, more beds, and an extra bathroom. It is also cheaper than 1 room at POR and 1 room at a deluxe that allows 5. I know what it is like to have the kids over in my house over the weekend. I can't imagine doing it in one room!

[hmp2z]

Originally posted by Disneydenise
You had to know tht this thread was going to spark the moral police. Disney does make mistakes too. When my son was 9 YO he was charged adult price at the buffet breakfast at the BC/YC. he was not tall or large for his age. I think that it is difficult to guess the age of a child unless you have alot of contact with children of a particular age.
I find this very strange. Are you comparing Disney making a wrong guess about your child's age (which, by the way, can be easily corrected), with deliberately lying in order to stuff 8 people into a 4 person room? Just wondering if that is what you actually meant, or if perhaps I misunderstood? Everyone makes mistakes, but when you deliberately decide to lie, and feel that you are somehow justified in the lie b/c of your profession or the number of offspring you've given birth to :confused:, that becomes a whole different story.

[connor69]

By posting that my hubby is a firefighter was not meant to have people think by his career choice he should get something for free. It was meant to explain that we do know about fire codes and what they mean.
We are not the sinister-laughing, mustache twirling, hand wringing people that some people may envision us to be. We are not sitting here plotting to pull the wool over the eyes of Disney. We are going to Disney and staying in a standard room at a deluxe hotel. We will be be quiet and unobtrusive to other hotel guests. We are paying for this trip ourselves and not asking for anyone else to do so. We are not expecting that we are "owed" a suite at the Grand Floridian or concierge at any hotel because we are a large family..we will pay for a hotel room at a particular hotel that my family would like to stay at. The children are willing to share a room as they do at home. They are unaware of the number of people that can fit into a room. So they are obivilous to the points of view expressed here. To them sharing their things is a way of life. So do not think we sit at the dinner table plotting how to do all of this. Disney will get our money for the hotel...money for our meals..and money for our park tickets. I don't see how adding a connecting room for extra$$$$ will benefit my family..it will just keep us in compliance with the fire code.
I wanted to post this point of view as we know that their are all kinds of views to be considered. There are others that feel this way I'm sure. I do not considered us to be immoral, unethical, or just plain dishonest. This is my point of view.

[hmp2z]

It's not dishonest, as long as Disney says it's okay. But if you're sneaking people into a room and violating fire codes, then, yes, it is dishonest as well as unsafe. I find it so bizarre that you don't see anything wrong with sneaking around the rules and adding people to a room. Do you let Disney know how many people you are packing in there? It's their hotel room, after all, only on loan to you for a fee, and it's Disney who will be paying the exhorbitant amount I'm sure they'll be sued for if the worst happens and children are stuck in a room during a fire. Can you blame them for being concerned about your safety? Why would you risk your children like this, especially since your husband is a firefighter so presumably knows the risks? If you know they'd be safer in 2 All Star rooms, why not go with accommodations like that? And how do you hide your children while you're checking in? Do you pay the extra $50 fee for 4 people in a room, or do you avoid that too? This just boggles my mind, that you don't see a problem with lying and endangering your family and, really, cheating Disney since you're cramming more people into 1 room than is allowed.

[disneyjunkie]

Originally posted by connor69
By posting that my hubby is a firefighter was not meant to have people think by his career choice he should get something for free. It was meant to explain that we do know about fire codes and what they mean.
We are not the sinister-laughing, mustache twirling, hand wringing people that some people may envision us to be. We are not sitting here plotting to pull the wool over the eyes of Disney. We are going to Disney and staying in a standard room at a deluxe hotel. We will be be quiet and unobtrusive to other hotel guests. We are paying for this trip ourselves and not asking for anyone else to do so. We are not expecting that we are "owed" a suite at the Grand Floridian or concierge at any hotel because we are a large family..we will pay for a hotel room at a particular hotel that my family would like to stay at. The children are willing to share a room as they do at home. They are unaware of the number of people that can fit into a room. So they are obivilous to the points of view expressed here. To them sharing their things is a way of life. So do not think we sit at the dinner table plotting how to do all of this. Disney will get our money for the hotel...money for our meals..and money for our park tickets. I don't see how adding a connecting room for extra$$$$ will benefit my family..it will just keep us in compliance with the fire code.
I wanted to post this point of view as we know that their are all kinds of views to be considered. There are others that feel this way I'm sure. I do not considered us to be immoral, unethical, or just plain dishonest. This is my point of view.


What happens if the resort manager finds out how many people you have in your room? If they ask you to leave, how will you explain that to your kids?

[Lisa3]

If you choose to have that many kids, either you have to earn enough to live the way you want to live or make sacrifices. That's life. - Jennymouse's Post

I knew I should have stayed out of this - I seem to just keep putting my foot in my mouth. I'm sorry if I took the above quote the wrong way - sleep deprivation from sick kids for the last two weeks is making me a bit touchy.

I think most of us agree that it is not o.k. to lie about the number of people in a room, ages of the children, etc. It is so important that our children see our values in action (My son caught me telling a telemarketer that I wasn't home - I'll never do it again!).

Also, I really don't think most people expect to be treated any differently than anyone else. If you get a good deal great. From what I can see the people on these boards are more than willing to share their good fortune by keeping us informed.

We are all going or hope to go to a place that is magical. It is really not about where you stay or who can afford what. It is about the time you spend together as a family and the memories your children will carry for the rest of their lives.

[TheRustyScupper]

1) It is wrong.
2) This is cheating.
3) You should stay where you can afford.
4) If you can't afford a Disney resort, then stay off-site.
5) there are many hotels or homes than can accomodate you.

ONCE AGAIN, YOU ARE CHEATING IF YOU OVER-MAN THE ROOM !!!

[jldriscoll]

Originally posted by connor69
We will be be quiet and unobtrusive to other hotel guests. We are paying for this trip ourselves and not asking for anyone else to do so. We are not expecting that we are "owed" a suite at the Grand Floridian or concierge at any hotel because we are a large family..we will pay for a hotel room at a particular hotel that my family would like to stay at. The children are willing to share a room as they do at home. They are unaware of the number of people that can fit into a room. So they are obivilous to the points of view expressed here. To them sharing their things is a way of life.

Whether the kids know it or not, cheating is still cheating and weren't we all taught not to do that?

What we WANT and what we can have are two entirely different things. That fact that 8 people want to stay at a resort means they need to pay for all 8.

We may not like them, but like everywhere, Disney has rules. Meant to be followed, not just when it suits us.

[Karel]

It boggle my mind that they can be comfortable with that many people in a room. That's not a vacation to me. Plus I would be pertrified about being caught and what could happen to us, what would I say to the kids. The guilt would just eat me alive. Do they all share one bedroom at home? I have to agree with hmp2z- that you don't see it as dishonest or unethical. Do you stuff everyone into a four passenger car too? My kids know about sharing, they know about saving or waiting for something. If we can't stay in a particular hotel, I tell them and they accept it. Perhaps you should try reality with your kids?

I'm not trying to be rude or anything but your point of view is sooooo far from my own, I just can't get my mind around it.

[NHMickey]

I think this thread has run it's course. I am going to lock it. If you have any questions or concerns please email me or any of the other Resort Board Moderators or DIS Webmasters.