The ALL NEW Disney's Contemporary Resort & Bay Lake Tower FAQ with PICs! (July 2011)

[BLTtinkerbell]

I booked a 3 day stay at CR for the end of my trip!

How far is the garden wing from the main building? How can I make requests for a room closer to the monorail?

The garden wing is a short walk to the main building. You can request a room close to main building.

 

[annej]

I am planning on bringing the Tide Pods laundry detergent on our upcoming trip. Will this work or is it too much detergent? I am not sure how much detergent to use in a smaller washer as mine is super duper large!

 

[WDWKOOK]

Help! I am trying to decide between getting a TPV studio in BLT vs a standard room at the Poly. We are only planning to stay for 2 nights in May after our cruise. We will be spending 1 day at MK, so that's why we wanted to be on the monorail. We have only ever stayed off site or at a moderate before, but would love to try a deluxe this time for the convenience to MK and the ability to view the fireworks from our resort on the night that we check in. Our kids will be 4 & 6 and love the pool and waterslide. I know that a studio is small, but we will have just gotten out of a standard indoor room on the Dream, so I don't think that will bother us very much. I am leaning toward BLT right now, and just wanted to know what would make you choose this resort over Poly. (BTW, I know this thread is full of people that love CR, so I will also be posting to the Poly thread to ask the same question ) TIA

Welcome! We just stayed for the first time in a BLT one bedroom in August and we loved it even more than staying at the CR. We've stayed at the Poly twice and I would choose BLT over the Poly. The BLT rooms are newer and everything is under one roof. You also have the walkway to the MK and the MKV Studios have amazing views of Wishes. Since it's only for a couple of days, the room size shouldn't be an issue. But, keep in mind that a Studio is actually smaller than both a CR and Poly standard room. Do you need the kitchenette or do you need to book using points? If not, I would consider a CR TPV room instead.

In my signature, there's a hyperlink to my BLT review and in it I have the link to the BLT room view thread.

Let us know what you book

I booked a 3 day stay at CR for the end of my trip!

How far is the garden wing from the main building? How can I make requests for a room closer to the monorail?

If you booked a Standard View in the Garden Wing, then your room will be close to the walkway that connects the GW to the Tower. The furthest rooms to the walkway are those facing Bay Lake, which are Garden View rooms. If you request 'close to the Tower' then you won't get a Bay Lake view. None of the rooms are that much closer to the Tower that it would really matter. I'd guess that the time variance might be a minute difference between the closest and furthest away room. There is a covered walkway to the Tower, then you simply take the elevator to the 4th floor and then the escalator to the monorail.

For your request, I wouldn't really worry about the distance from the Tower, but if it's very important to you, I would call the WDTC and request a room 'close to the Tower.'

I am planning on bringing the Tide Pods laundry detergent on our upcoming trip. Will this work or is it too much detergent? I am not sure how much detergent to use in a smaller washer as mine is super duper large!

The washer is a standard size and your Pods will be perfect. I like to bring the detergent sheets and I use two per load at WDW.

 

[babyberger]

I am planning on bringing the Tide Pods laundry detergent on our upcoming trip. Will this work or is it too much detergent? I am not sure how much detergent to use in a smaller washer as mine is super duper large!

Oh I am glad you asked this. I bought a pack of the pods just for vacations.

The washer is a standard size and your Pods will be perfect. I like to bring the detergent sheets and I use two per load at WDW.

Thank you KOOK!! As always, you have our answers Hope you are doing well up there and life is back to "normal"!

Sent from my iPad using DISBoards

 

[WDWKOOK]

Here is the link to the NOVEMBER activities flyer for the CR:

http://www.themouseforless.com/tripplanning/resorts/wdw/pdf/ContCalendar.pdf



BLT:

http://www.themouseforless.com/tripplanning/resorts/wdw/pdf/BLTCalendar.pdf​

 

[WDWKOOK]

Thank you KOOK!! As always, you have our answers Hope you are doing well up there and life is back to "normal"!

Sent from my iPad using DISBoards

We were so lucky not to lose power or have any damage. We had just moved to Key West a few days before Andrew struck so I wasn't sure what to expect here in Northern VA.

Will you get to stay at the CR right before CA Grill closes?

 

[babyberger]

We were so lucky not to lose power or have any damage. We had just moved to Key West a few days before Andrew struck so I wasn't sure what to expect here in Northern VA.

Will you get to stay at the CR right before CA Grill closes?

I wasn't down here for Andrew but hubby was and he said it was devastating. I can only imagine your fears for Sandy after having been through Andrew.

Yep we are at CR the first time Dec1-3, but I really don't think my kiddos will do well at CA grille, even though I would love to try it

Melissa

Sent from my iPad using DISBoards

 

[psac]

The washer is a standard size and your Pods will be perfect. I like to bring the detergent sheets and I use two per load at WDW.

We bring the 3-in-1 sheets, too, and I always just use one. (I'm the laundry man when we're on vacation. ) How did you get to using two?

 

[prosplace]

I have stayed at the Bay Lake towers as a non-DVC member for four occasions over two years. I definitely love the hotel and think it is great. However, last time I went and for the first time, (last weekend) I was told that since I am not a DVC member I can't access the lounge at the top even though I have done three times before by going to the front desk and checking in. The policy I was told was that it is for DVC club members only. Has anyone run into this? 600.00 a night for a one bedroom villa I would think it would allow for a family to go up to watch the fireworks and utilize the lounge. I was told that the DVC members are the ones that pay for it in their deals, but doesn't the non-DVC members who stay in the rooms at the BLT to supplement when the rooms are not being utilized, be afforded the access. I could understand if the Contemporary clients were not allowed, but if I specifically booked a room in BLT, I would hope that, especially with the cost, be able to utilize the facilities without restrictions...... Just a thought, I mean next time I will book the Magic Kingdom view...but find it still a very interesting policy when the extra money being spent would allow for the use of the facility....Thoughts or expierences??

 

[NandK]

I have stayed at the Bay Lake towers as a non-DVC member for four occasions over two years. I definitely love the hotel and think it is great. However, last time I went and for the first time, (last weekend) I was told that since I am not a DVC member I can't access the lounge at the top even though I have done three times before by going to the front desk and checking in. The policy I was told was that it is for DVC club members only. Has anyone run into this? 600.00 a night for a one bedroom villa I would think it would allow for a family to go up to watch the fireworks and utilize the lounge. I was told that the DVC members are the ones that pay for it in their deals, but doesn't the non-DVC members who stay in the rooms at the BLT to supplement when the rooms are not being utilized, be afforded the access. I could understand if the Contemporary clients were not allowed, but if I specifically booked a room in BLT, I would hope that, especially with the cost, be able to utilize the facilities without restrictions...... Just a thought, I mean next time I will book the Magic Kingdom view...but find it still a very interesting policy when the extra money being spent would allow for the use of the facility....Thoughts or expierences??

I agree with you 110% but you have just brought up a touchy subject for the DVC members out there. Many are going to say that it is one of the perks of being in the club (you might have guessed I am not in this club, just couldn't justify the cost). However, I have stayed on rented points and been up several times and never seen a huge crowd. I don't see how it's a big deal and would feel the same way if I was a DVC member. We also love BLT. I can't wait to see the comments though.

 

[AirGoofy]

I have stayed at the Bay Lake towers as a non-DVC member for four occasions over two years. I definitely love the hotel and think it is great. However, last time I went and for the first time, (last weekend) I was told that since I am not a DVC member I can't access the lounge at the top even though I have done three times before by going to the front desk and checking in. The policy I was told was that it is for DVC club members only. Has anyone run into this? 600.00 a night for a one bedroom villa I would think it would allow for a family to go up to watch the fireworks and utilize the lounge. I was told that the DVC members are the ones that pay for it in their deals, but doesn't the non-DVC members who stay in the rooms at the BLT to supplement when the rooms are not being utilized, be afforded the access. I could understand if the Contemporary clients were not allowed, but if I specifically booked a room in BLT, I would hope that, especially with the cost, be able to utilize the facilities without restrictions...... Just a thought, I mean next time I will book the Magic Kingdom view...but find it still a very interesting policy when the extra money being spent would allow for the use of the facility....Thoughts or expierences??

I am a DVC member and thought the new policy was that you could access it if you stayed at BLT (points or cash) or if you were DVC member at another resort. I really like the outside patio/terrace area but can do without the lounge, since they will not adequately staff it. IMO, you are welcome there anytime.

 

[LucyBC80]

If you booked a Standard View in the Garden Wing, then your room will be close to the walkway that connects the GW to the Tower. The furthest rooms to the walkway are those facing Bay Lake, which are Garden View rooms. If you request 'close to the Tower' then you won't get a Bay Lake view. None of the rooms are that much closer to the Tower that it would really matter. I'd guess that the time variance might be a minute difference between the closest and furthest away room. There is a covered walkway to the Tower, then you simply take the elevator to the 4th floor and then the escalator to the monorail.

For your request, I wouldn't really worry about the distance from the Tower, but if it's very important to you, I would call the WDTC and request a room 'close to the Tower.'

Thanks for the tips!

I have a standard view booked so I might end up near the towers anyway. I'm just glad to be finally staying at CR, this has been my dream resort since I first started going to WDW!

 

[Waddler]

I agree with you 110% but you have just brought up a touchy subject for the DVC members out there. Many are going to say that it is one of the perks of being in the club (you might have guessed I am not in this club, just couldn't justify the cost). However, I have stayed on rented points and been up several times and never seen a huge crowd. I don't see how it's a big deal and would feel the same way if I was a DVC member. We also love BLT. I can't wait to see the comments though.

I'm sure it is a touchy subject, but I agree with you. I don't believe that renters staying at BLT on DVC points are allowed in, either.

I wonder what percentage of BLT's guests are renters and cash customers at any one time. Sounds like the lounge could use the extra business.

 

[vicki_c]

I have stayed at the Bay Lake towers as a non-DVC member for four occasions over two years. I definitely love the hotel and think it is great. However, last time I went and for the first time, (last weekend) I was told that since I am not a DVC member I can't access the lounge at the top even though I have done three times before by going to the front desk and checking in. The policy I was told was that it is for DVC club members only. Has anyone run into this? 600.00 a night for a one bedroom villa I would think it would allow for a family to go up to watch the fireworks and utilize the lounge. I was told that the DVC members are the ones that pay for it in their deals, but doesn't the non-DVC members who stay in the rooms at the BLT to supplement when the rooms are not being utilized, be afforded the access. I could understand if the Contemporary clients were not allowed, but if I specifically booked a room in BLT, I would hope that, especially with the cost, be able to utilize the facilities without restrictions...... Just a thought, I mean next time I will book the Magic Kingdom view...but find it still a very interesting policy when the extra money being spent would allow for the use of the facility....Thoughts or expierences??

The policy is set by DVC. It is for members only. If you got in before, it was luck. DVC members own the lounge and therefore it is reserved for them and their guests staying at BLT using their DVC membership (points or cash reservations made thru DVC). (Not counting a current expanded deal for DVC members staying at other resorts, but that is just a temporary thing thru December).

 

[WDWKOOK]

Tables in Wonderland

The Wave . . . of American Flavor’s Discovery Dinner
At Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Thursday, November 15, 2012
6:30 p.m. Reception; 7:00 p.m. Dinner
Meet at The Wave… of American Flavor’s Main Podium
Dress Code - Casual Evening Attire
$110 per person, includes tax and gratuity


The Wave…of American Flavors has an exciting evening planned for their November Tables in Wonderland Discovery Dinner. This will be the first beer dinner at The Wave and they are partnering with the well known and respected Unibroue brand from Quebec, Canada. From the very beginning, Unibroue has carved out a special niche in the beer world with top quality products and a brand rooted deep in Quebec culture. It made history by becoming the first North American beer maker to use a brewing method inspired by the two-centuries-old tradition developed by Trappist monks in Europe—particularly in Belgium. Over the years, Unibroue has remained faithful to its origins even as it has grown to become an icon of the brewing world. Unibroue products take you on a journey filled with legends and fabulous tales.


Local farmers will be represented by Pero Farms out of Delray Beach, Florida. Pero Farms is a sustainable farm that grows a wide array of vegetables. Since 1908, their family farms have grown out of their passion for food, a healthy environment, and their sincere interest in producing the highest quality produce, both ethically and sustainably.


Reception in The Wave . . . of American Flavors Lounge
Grilled Mini Sweet Bruchetta
Capri style Mini Sweet Peppers, stuffed with Fresh Mozzarella Cheese, topped with Chiffonade of Basil
Mini Sweet Peppers stuffed with Italian Sausage topped with Caramelized Onions
Maudite Ale (Nose reveals: Malt, orange, wild spices with fragrances of coriander and cloves and floral hop notes)


Dinner in The Wave . . . of American Flavors Private Dining Room

First Course
Oysters Two Ways: UniBroue Chambly Mignonette and Beer Battered Oysters
Chambly (named the world’s best Belgian Style Witbier)


Second Course
Soup Course Duo: Black Diamond Cheddar and Stout Onion Bisque
La Fin Du Monde (Flavor Profile: Mildly yeasty with a complex palate of malt, fruit and spice notes followed by a smooth, dry finish)


Entrée
Tres Pistoles Marinated Filet Mignon Sous Vide Cooking Method, 3 Sweet Potato Hash and Pero Farms Peperonata
Tres Pistoles (Flavor Profile: Slightly sweet. Enhanced by accents of roasted malt, cocoa, ripe fruit and dark spices with a smooth finish like an old port.)


Cheese Course
Caveman Bleu, Irish Cheddar, and Port Salute
Maudite (Nose Reveals: Malt, orange, wild spices with fragrances of coriander and cloves and floral hop notes)


Dessert
Pero Farms Butternut Squash Panna Cotta
Fallen Chocolate Soufflé with Pero Farms Sweet Red Pepper Foam
Gingerbread Cupcake with Unibroue 17 Grand Reserve Infused Chocolate Maple Butter Cream
Unibroue 17 (Flavor Profile: Intensely malty, slightly sweet and hoppy with mocha and cocoa accents and a subtle oaky finish)


For reservations, please visit the following website www.disneyurl.com/TheWaveNovember for self-booking and instant confirmation. The website will go live and begin taking reservations on Thursday November 1, 2012 at 10:00am.


Please have the following information ready:
Tables in Wonderland Ticket Number
First and Last Name of everyone in your party (maximum is Party of 8)
Home address
Phone number
Credit Card Number
Billing Address of the Credit Card (Your credit card will be charged at the time of booking, and you will receive an immediate confirmation email.)
Personal Email Address (Please use a personal email address as many work email addresses think the confirmation email is spam.)
Special Dietary Needs (if any)


Guest Policies
The event is limited to 46 Guests, and is exclusive to Tables in Wonderland members.
You must show your valid Tables in Wonderland ticket to gain entrance into the event.

 

[CarrieR]

Hey CR fans!

Popping in here and hoping you have an answer to a quick question. Friends and I are looking at BLT; we tend to end most nights closing down the MK and I am trying to convince them walking to the CR is way better than waiting on the bus line! We generally stay at Pop, and are used to getting to DHS quickly in the mornings. (We probably start half of our mornings there.) Not accounting for time waiting for the bus (+/-15 minutes, I presume,) how long is the ride to DHS from the CR? I know it stops at another resort on the way.

I need to lay out a proposal for spending the extra cash and want to know exactly how much AM transit time we're conceding for saving so much in the PM.

Thanks!!!

 

[AirGoofy]

Hey CR fans!

Popping in here and hoping you have an answer to a quick question. Friends and I are looking at BLT; we tend to end most nights closing down the MK and I am trying to convince them walking to the CR is way better than waiting on the bus line! We generally stay at Pop, and are used to getting to DHS quickly in the mornings. (We probably start half of our mornings there.) Not accounting for time waiting for the bus (+/-15 minutes, I presume,) how long is the ride to DHS from the CR? I know it stops at another resort on the way.

I need to lay out a proposal for spending the extra cash and want to know exactly how much AM transit time we're conceding for saving so much in the PM.
Thanks!!!

That's a tough question because there are a lot of factors. I think the bus ride itself may be 20 minutes, with no traffic. But, you have to calculate waiting time for the bus to arrive, how long to load, unload, etc. If you are trying to get there for early morning ADR, they oftentimes have a special bus that will take guests early.

 

[CarrieR]

Nah, no early morning ADRs for us. Just arrival for RD in time to get 8:40 TSMM FPs, lol!!!

20 minutes includes the stop at Poly/FW or is just the bus? What we factor from Pop already includes a wait for the bus to arrive and loading, so it's just the difference in drive time. Once we pull off from Pop, we go straight to DHS and are there in no time flat.

Thanks so much, AirGoofy!

 

[AirGoofy]

Nah, no early morning ADRs for us. Just arrival for RD in time to get 8:40 TSMM FPs, lol!!!

20 minutes includes the stop at Poly/FW or is just the bus? What we factor from Pop already includes a wait for the bus to arrive and loading, so it's just the difference in drive time. Once we pull off from Pop, we go straight to DHS and are there in no time flat.

Thanks so much, AirGoofy!

Yeah, probably add a few more for stopping at the Poly. It really is a crap shoot with the buses. I remember one trip, we were the only people on the bus. That went fast. But, this last trip, there was a big wait time before the bus arrived, with some extra time for electric scooter transfer. My observations are that the buses seem to run a lot more often to AKV from CR.

If you are wanting to get there at 8:40, which is a must for TSM & FPs, I would be at the bus stop before 8:00 AM to be safe.

 

[wdwfun!]

I understand that there is free Wifi in the rooms at the CR. Is that correct? How reliable and fast is the connection? Will I be able to log in to the office and stay connected to do work? How about downloading a movie to my Ipad? Is there a hard wire connection still available in the room using a cable?