(CLOSED) Disney's CONTEMPORARY RESORT and BAY LAKE TOWER INFORMATION THREAD

[Koh1977]

Is there a posting of upcoming trip dates for the CR like there are for a lot of the other resorts? Not a big deal, was just curious.

 

[WDWKOOK]

So, we ended up upgrading to a one bedroom suite, but just one with two standard rooms on the 14th floor. There were three MK view one bedroom suites available last Friday. Today there was only one!! Our trip is 15 months away and people accuse me of planning too far ahead!!!!! I am evidently not the only one that does.

Sounds great and I hope you'll post photos for us

Hoping to rent points in January 2014 for August 2014!!!! My family and I really want to stay here!!

I hope you get to stay. Are you looking at CR or BLT?

KOOK did you ever get through to add your day today Are you really going to stay at CR for 11 nts and not sneak over to the OFC for a few of those nights

You know how I feel about your advice

I am so happy to have something booked again and of course to have that be at CR/BLT. The funny thing is that DH told me if BLT doesn't get discounted we will have to downgrade to CR

Oh, funny story....we were talking this weekend about booking a quick weekend in May and told DS that if we book it would not be at the CR because prices are too high right now. He looked at us and said if he cant stay at CR, he would rather not go He finally said he would settle for YC if we couldn't do CR, but there was no way he would stay at any of the All Stars DH looked at me and said he definitely gets that from me

Melissa

The day got away from me and I haven't called back - will try tomorrow - thanks for asking and for your sweet comment.

Your DS sounds like my DD who is WDW resort spoiled - but I guess there are worse things.

I could never pay rack - another spoiled resort booker here. But, I do understand those who book to hold the room and apply something later. You're not going during some Marathon weekend or a holiday in Feb? If not, I would think you'll be able to snag at least a FLR discount for BLT - my appendages are crossed for you.

I'm sorry you weren't able to add another night.....hopefully the computers are (or will be) back up and you're able to extend your trip .

I have not booked yet, but I'm hoping to soon. I think I've decided on the room type, now just trying to make a decision on room only or package. Leaning toward room only, but still debating .

Glad to hear good reviews of the Wave for breakfast. We always book a TS breakfast at our resort on our departure day and I assumed it would be Chef Mickey's for our CR stay, but I think I'll have to look into the Wave now .

Yes, KOOK is one of the CR experts, IMO .

You'd think it would be easier to get Disney to take your money. Will you at least promise me we'll be the first to know what and when you book? I'd go with The Wave for a great breakfast buffet for the boys, but if you want some great photos, CMs the place.

Is the 4th floor observation deck for watching Wishes closed due to construction? Thought I read that somewhere but now I can't find it. TIA!

Yes, it's closed through late summer along with CG, but no actual date has been released.

Thank you all very much for the info! We have never used the ME before and never stayed deluxe so your info is so valuable to me

On behalf of "all," you're welcome!

Pool help, please?

My favorite resort is YC/BC because I love to sit in the shade by the pool. I can't handle much sun and that complex is just perfect for me. However CR is DH's favorite.... So that's where we're staying. Are there any shady area by the pool? Maybe with lounge chairs and drink service? (Yes I'm daydreaming on that one.)

We're looking at a mid- to late- October stay so maybe it won't even be swimming weather but still.....

And while I'm here any ideas on the travel time from CR to EPCOT via monorail? Are we better off getting a bus?

None of the monorail resorts have buses to Epcot.

From the time you get on the monorail at the CR until you walk down to the Epcot security area is usually close to 30 minutes, depending on how long you wait at the TTC.

Oh my goodness. So I've been second guessing how much we're going to enjoy our standard view studio at BLT this September and if we'll regret not staying at some of our other favorite resorts (Poly, OKW, WL) and I just looked at the room view link. Thank you so much for posting this!! I had it in my mind that a standard view was going to be a bland, boring view of like a wall or dumpster, but I would be so excited to have any of those room views!! I am incredibly excited!!

 

[WDWKOOK]

This may be outdated info, but it was my understanding that those staying at BLT can use both pools, but those using the CR pools can only use the CR pool. I'm sure there are guests that use both and there is no pool police, unless perhaps if the pools are at capacity. The BLT pool has a key card entry if someone remembers to close the gate.



There is another website that lists the inventory, but I am not sure if there is a specific inventory of dedicated two bedrooms or lock offs. I have never booked a 2 BR anywhere, and am not sure if there is a seperate booking category at BLT. You could ask David's to make a request for you, but unless there is a booking category, there will not be a guarantee and you wouldn't know until you get there. As for the TOTWL, the policy has changed numerous times. It originally was for owners only staying there, then for owners staying anywhere, then who knows. I don't know the current policies, but more importantly, many of the CMs don't know it either as it has been enforced at times and not enforced other times. It also may change between now and the time you arrive. You are supposed to check in at the front desk in the evening to get to the only staffed elevator car with access. but, I have seen other guests bypass this step and just join in the car. Good luck on this one.

Sent from my iPad using DISBoards

You're correct about the pool and as far as I know, as long as your KTTW card says "DVC" on it, you're allowed up to the TOTWL. Whether your KTTW card is supposed to say "DVC," is another issue.

 

[WDWKOOK]

Is there a posting of upcoming trip dates for the CR like there are for a lot of the other resorts? Not a big deal, was just curious.

I have one for WL, but not BWI and CR. Maybe I need to start one so I can remove my CR stay from the Lodgers' Log and put it in the right thread. I'll keep you posted. My bolognese sauce needs my attention

 

[meredith1]

Two questions (which of course will lead to other questions I am sure):

1-I reserved my Two Bedroom-Lake View room renting points through David's. Do all two BR's come with the studio 2nd room with the kitchenette? If not, how do I find out if mine does or not?

2-Since I have rented points through a DVC owner, are we allowed use of the TOW lounge for Wishes viewing?

When are you going? David's couldn't reserve a two BR for us at BLT even at the 11 month window. He didn't have enough points for us-Boo!

Request a dedicated two bedroom rather than a lock-off. The lock off is what has the second kitchen. A dedicated bedroom does not have the smaller kitchen in bedroom #2.

 

[YCFAN]

I'll certainly post photos when I go! Can't wait to see what the refurb is going to look like.

 

[mickeynut1]

Will you at least promise me we'll be the first to know what and when you book? I'd go with The Wave for a great breakfast buffet for the boys, but if you want some great photos, CMs the place.

I will definitely post here as soon as I'm officially booked . I think I'm going to look into the Wave and get opinions from DH and both DSs. We have done CMs every trip since we started going to Disney, but it may be time to try something new (although I do love all of my CM photos ).

 

[psac]

When are you going? David's couldn't reserve a two BR for us at BLT even at the 11 month window. He didn't have enough points for us-Boo!

Request a dedicated two bedroom rather than a lock-off. The lock off is what has the second kitchen. A dedicated bedroom does not have the smaller kitchen in bedroom #2.

I think it's the vice versa. I think the OP wanted the kitchenette, in which case they should request a lockoff instead of dedicated.

 

[princessap]

This may be outdated info, but it was my understanding that those staying at BLT can use both pools, but those using the CR pools can only use the CR pool. I'm sure there are guests that use both and there is no pool police, unless perhaps if the pools are at capacity. The BLT pool has a key card entry if someone remembers to close the gate.

Thanks Airgoofy. I really wish CM's gave out the right information.

So we have a new dilemma now. My DD is trying out for a competitive dance team. if she makes it we cannot miss any weeks of practice between november and june. so our february trip wouldnt work out. We could go on march break with everyone else or we can wait until September. What does everything think?? is it that much cheaper in September??

 

[mickeynut1]

So we have a new dilemma now. My DD is trying out for a competitive dance team. if she makes it we cannot miss any weeks of practice between november and june. so our february trip wouldnt work out. We could go on march break with everyone else or we can wait until September. What does everything think?? is it that much cheaper in September??

We have gone twice at the very end of September/beginning of October for free dining and we love that time of year. The weather was great as it was hot enough for swimming and enjoying the water parks, but not so hot that it was unbearable walking around the parks. Price wise, September is going to be much cheaper as March is spring break time with peak season pricing. The crowds will also be lighter during September. Good luck to your DD in tryouts and I hope you are able to reschedule your trip for a time that works well for you and your family .

 

[AirGoofy]

So we have a new dilemma now. My DD is trying out for a competitive dance team. if she makes it we cannot miss any weeks of practice between november and june. so our february trip wouldnt work out. We could go on march break with everyone else or we can wait until September. What does everything think?? is it that much cheaper in September??

September is a great time to go. It is cheaper and the crowd levels are lower. March can be cool for swimming weather. We went three time in September before our dds were school age, now we get a week off in October (Columbus Day) for Fall Break and go then. We will go to Disney on Spring Break, but only when it does not fall during Easter. Our Spring Break is not until the last of March/ first of April. We enjoy Disney then as well, and are planning for a 2014 Spring Break trip there. Good luck in whichever you decide.

 

[princessap]

thanks everyone...we will know in August if she makes it or not....but with all the input regarding September I am tempted to try that time even if she doesn't make it. Being from Canada we like to go in February to escape our winter here but if September would be more enjoyable that could be an option too...If she does make it I think we will postpone until September for sure.

 

[LSUfan4444]

When are you going? David's couldn't reserve a two BR for us at BLT even at the 11 month window. He didn't have enough points for us-Boo!

We are going Jan 10 - Jan 18. he didn't have enough points for me either at the 11 month window so we opted to wait. Availability was there for all views, but not enough points. Then, we lost availability for the standard view and held ground waiting on a Lake View, knowing we still have Beach Club and Boardwalk as plan B. Friday, we finally got confirmation.

Request a dedicated two bedroom rather than a lock-off. The lock off is what has the second kitchen. A dedicated bedroom does not have the smaller kitchen in bedroom #2.

We would want the second kitchen. I contacted David's and asked them to contact the owner and see what he had requested if any when the reservations were made. I also requested a lock off at that time. Now, we just have to wait and see.

 

[WDWKOOK]

I was able to add a night so we now have 11 nights Atrium Club/BLV booked for July-August. DH mentions almost daily that he is really looking forward to our CL stay so that makes me more excited. DD and I stayed CR/CL without him in 2010 while he was deployed, so while he's stayed many times at the CR, this will be his first CL stay there. I think the fact they stock Sam Adams is a big CL selling point

I booked last month, but as is often the case, I haven't heard anything from the IPO yet so I thought I'd ask if there's a new policy. The CM said that they contact 90 days out. They should also still contact guests 180+10 days out if they book that soon, but I booked with less time out than that so presumably they'll contact me at 90 days instead. I know I can contact them, but it's always exciting to get that email from them.

The CM also noticed that my "Far from Chef Mickey's" request had been put in as just "Chef Mickey's". This is why I always confirm my room requests with the IPO since mistakes can happen. He thought maybe it was a dining request. It's all straightened out, thanks to him

 

[Jonathan Swift]

I'm staying in a Garden Wing / Garden View room. Does the mini-fridge come stocked with stuff? I'd like to use it for my own items. Can I request that it be cleared out when I check in? Has anyone done this before?

 

[ZZUB]

I'm staying in a Garden Wing / Garden View room. Does the mini-fridge come stocked with stuff? I'd like to use it for my own items. Can I request that it be cleared out when I check in? Has anyone done this before?

It's a dorm-style fridge and it will be empty when you check in. In other words, it's not a stocked mini-bar. In the very first post on this thread is a picture of the refrigerators with the door open. Just scan down to the bottom of that first post.

 

[mickeynut1]

thanks everyone...we will know in August if she makes it or not....but with all the input regarding September I am tempted to try that time even if she doesn't make it. Being from Canada we like to go in February to escape our winter here but if September would be more enjoyable that could be an option too...If she does make it I think we will postpone until September for sure.

Good luck to your DD in tryouts .

I was able to add a night so we now have 11 nights Atrium Club/BLV booked for July-August. DH mentions almost daily that he is really looking forward to our CL stay so that makes me more excited. DD and I stayed CR/CL without him in 2010 while he was deployed, so while he's stayed many times at the CR, this will be his first CL stay there. I think the fact they stock Sam Adams is a big CL selling point

Yay for adding the extra night . I hope your DH enjoys CR CL.

 

[Georgi Zhukov]

Well, I'm off to the CR this Saturday.Of course, I had to check the CR thread one last time before we leave - thanks again to all who contribute. We're very bummed California Grill will be closed - it's our favorite restaurant in WDW, let alone the CR - but we'll make do.

This is easier said than done, but this may be our last trip to WDW for a while. For the amount of money we've been spending on these Disney vacations, I figure I could take the family to many places around the world. I've been thinking I should take the kids to REAL Europe for some culture instead of strolling around the World Showcase . BTW, I said the same thing last year and was overruled by the wife and kids soooo it's very possible we'll be back in 2014. But in case this is it for a while, I'm going to make sure I enjoy every second of my stay at the CR!

Since I've gotten so much info from the Disboards over the years, I thought I'd try to repay my debt by offering this time to gather any CR info/take any photos that anyone may be looking for. So, if you can think of anything you need while I'm down in (hopefully) sunny FL, please let me know. Cheers!

 

[WDWKOOK]

mickeynut1: I'm sure the CM got nervous when he saw I was calling with a 'resort reservation change'. Little did he know I was just adding a night. I've not actually changed this reservation - this may be a personal record.

I'm staying in a Garden Wing / Garden View room. Does the mini-fridge come stocked with stuff? I'd like to use it for my own items. Can I request that it be cleared out when I check in? Has anyone done this before?

Welcome to the thread! And, BTW, all the mini fridges are the same in all the CR rooms. I have heard though that when staying on the 14th Tower Club level, they will stock the fridge with some lounge beverages, but as ZZUB posted, it's not a cash/mini bar, just an added convenience for Tower Club level guests.

Well, I'm off to the CR this Saturday.Of course, I had to check the CR thread one last time before we leave - thanks again to all who contribute. We're very bummed California Grill will be closed - it's our favorite restaurant in WDW, let alone the CR - but we'll make do.

This is easier said than done, but this may be our last trip to WDW for a while. For the amount of money we've been spending on these Disney vacations, I figure I could take the family to many places around the world. I've been thinking I should take the kids to REAL Europe for some culture instead of strolling around the World Showcase . BTW, I said the same thing last year and was overruled by the wife and kids soooo it's very possible we'll be back in 2014. But in case this is it for a while, I'm going to make sure I enjoy every second of my stay at the CR!

Since I've gotten so much info from the Disboards over the years, I thought I'd try to repay my debt by offering this time to gather any CR info/take any photos that anyone may be looking for. So, if you can think of anything you need while I'm down in (hopefully) sunny FL, please let me know. Cheers!

I would imagine you're both excited and slightly sad that this might be your last trip to WDW for a while. You're not the first (nor last) who compares the money spent there to what it might cost elsewhere. I guess there are just some things about WDW that you can't put a price on, like the special memories and unexpected 'pixie dust' and anticipation of going to someplace familiar, predictable and loved. Yes, there are more exotic locales and less expensive vacations, but in the end, your family chose WDW again this year, so there just may be a Bounceback in your future. Does 'real' Europe have Duffy Bear, rides, meals, shops and personnel from 11 countries all within walking distance? I think not

Thank you for offering to to get info. or photos. We love CG, too (see, there's another reason you need to go back next year) and we'd love for it to be open when we're there in July/August. Maybe a CM would have a better re-opening estimate than 'late summer'? I'm sure we'd all love some photos of the freshened rooms. I hope you and your family have a wonderful time!

 

[sjs314]

I was able to add a night so we now have 11 nights Atrium Club/BLV booked for July-August. DH mentions almost daily that he is really looking forward to our CL stay so that makes me more excited. DD and I stayed CR/CL without him in 2010 while he was deployed, so while he's stayed many times at the CR, this will be his first CL stay there. I think the fact they stock Sam Adams is a big CL selling point

I booked last month, but as is often the case, I haven't heard anything from the IPO yet so I thought I'd ask if there's a new policy. The CM said that they contact 90 days out. They should also still contact guests 180+10 days out if they book that soon, but I booked with less time out than that so presumably they'll contact me at 90 days instead. I know I can contact them, but it's always exciting to get that email from them.

The CM also noticed that my "Far from Chef Mickey's" request had been put in as just "Chef Mickey's". This is why I always confirm my room requests with the IPO since mistakes can happen. He thought maybe it was a dining request. It's all straightened out, thanks to him

KOOK Congrates on adding a night!!! WOW glad you rechecked your room request that could have been a real problem.

Well, I'm off to the CR this Saturday.Of course, I had to check the CR thread one last time before we leave - thanks again to all who contribute. We're very bummed California Grill will be closed - it's our favorite restaurant in WDW, let alone the CR - but we'll make do.

This is easier said than done, but this may be our last trip to WDW for a while. For the amount of money we've been spending on these Disney vacations, I figure I could take the family to many places around the world. I've been thinking I should take the kids to REAL Europe for some culture instead of strolling around the World Showcase . BTW, I said the same thing last year and was overruled by the wife and kids soooo it's very possible we'll be back in 2014. But in case this is it for a while, I'm going to make sure I enjoy every second of my stay at the CR!

Since I've gotten so much info from the Disboards over the years, I thought I'd try to repay my debt by offering this time to gather any CR info/take any photos that anyone may be looking for. So, if you can think of anything you need while I'm down in (hopefully) sunny FL, please let me know. Cheers!

Have a safe and magical trip!