A Grand Vacation: The 2012 Grand Floridian FAQ!

[MagicPrincess]

Really? I felt when we stayed Club level that they really did have some extra pull. They got everything we wanted at the times we wanted. We even had a bunch of large group reservations and it was not a problem. Even when we had changes it wasn't an issue. We were also able to get an illuminations cruise which I have never been able to get even calling right at the time the lines opened on our ADR day. We had a great experience using IPO.

I should add that we didn't start planning our trip until about 80 days out, so to try to get BOG or Ohana is next to impossible- unless I want to eat at bedtime I was hoping they could work some magic, but with that little time I totally understand.
The CM's are great- and they have always been very prompt with their responses back to me.

 

[psac]

Josh is a raving lunatic who is almost always smashed on scotch! Just look at the logo on his blog! Avoid his advice or you will have VACATION RUINED AND MEMORIES LOST.

That's "literally" correct!!!

 

[cgulls]

Thanks! I wonder if anyone who's been there now or recently has any thoughts? Does that noise go on all day long? I hate to cancel based upon one blog post from one day, but, on the same hand, I don't want to regret $125 either...

going into our stay last week, we had a cabana rented for a full day. After being there a couple days, we ended up cancelling the cabana and hanging out at the CY pool instead. The walls around the Beach Pool, the noise from next door (it wasn't horrible, but it was there), and the fact that the waterfall wasn't on reduced the appeal of the Beach Pool. We really liked the CY pool so we didn't feel as though we missed anything.

 

[k&a&c'smom]

I hopped on this morning to say we just left the Grand and report about the pool and DVC construction, and found people up in arms! I haven't read all the posts, but thought I'd say - I've read the blog post everyone is discussing, and I thought it was hilarious!

As has been pointed out, this blogger has a candid style. He is more of a writer than a reviewer, to my mind. Someone who writes for the overall effect of the piece, rather than a black and white review of the resort, restaurant, etc.

I highly doubt anyone is stumbling on this one report and seeing it as an indictment of the Grand as a whole. We use easyWDW calendars and I've enjoyed the reviews on the site tremendously - goofy comments and all.



Oh, and I have some photos of the new courtyard pool fence being installed, along with Gasparilla's and Sandy Cove photos. When I get a chance, I'll upload and share. We had a wonderful stay at the Grand! There was some construction noise, but it didn't overly impact our stay. We didn't spend a lot of time out on the grounds, though, so I can't vouch for how it feels after hearing it for hours (in the pool, for instance - we swam once, for only about 2 hours).

 

[MagicPrincess]

Can't wait to see the pictures! Hope you had a great time!!!


I just wanted to repost...
How much time should I allow for travel from GF to Epcot WS via monorail? I'm thinking it was about 90 minutes???
Thanks!

 

[k&a&c'smom]

Oh, MagicPrincess, I don't think it is as long as that! If I recall, it is about 35-40 minutes from your room to Epcot's entrance, depending on how quickly the monorails arrive, and then the walk to WS. I think that can be done in about 5, if you can walk fast. I don't.

Let me ask my girls - they just rode from the Grand to Epcot yesterday. They would have a better estimate, I think.

BTW - on the front page, I have a link to a handy tool for determining travel times at WDW: http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/transportation/transportation1.cfm

 

[k&a&c'smom]

I'm having trouble uploading, but here are a few photos from yesterday, looking down on the courtyard pool from the main building. I have some that are ground level, close up photos of the new fence, from the inside of the fenced area. I'll post those when I have a better connection!:

Closer view of the work

 

[k&a&c'smom]

Yikes. Is that noise going on all day long? We have a cabana reservation in early June at the Beach Club pool. I'm kind of rethinking it if the pool's that noisy--I think we'd be better off headed over to the Courtyard pool instead and saving the $125 on the cabana. WWYD?

On our trip this past October, we sprang for a cabana for the first time ever, and we loved it! It will be a new tradition for us. However, the construction is so close that I really don't think it would be money well spent to rent a cabana at this time - not with that amount of noise.

I definitely agree with phyllis - the cabanas are not a good value right now. We were in the Beach pool for a short time (mostly too cold, I forgot it isn't as warm as the courtyard pool!) and none of the cabanas were in use. The noise over there would prevent a soothing time spent, even if just the half day, and with the waterfall inoperable, the Beach pool just doesn't have the same feel.

In fact, with the zero entry and pop jets at the courtyard pool, there were as many if not more families over there now. They are doing the activities in the courtyard pool, not sure how long that is planned to continue.

ETA: cgulls, I see you had the same thoughts, I really should read through everything before I post! I'm not in love with the new courtyard pool, but as changes go, it isn't too bad. Hate that the zero entry has you in knee deep water halfway, and the deep end is so less deep - and it is now far more busy. But, still a pretty pool, and the new fence is far superior! However, I didn't see an exit gate near Boca, did you???

 

[cgulls]

I definitely agree with phyllis - the cabanas are not a good value right now. We were in the Beach pool for a short time (mostly too cold, I forgot it isn't as warm as the courtyard pool!) and none of the cabanas were in use. The noise over there would prevent a soothing time spent, even if just the half day, and with the waterfall inoperable, the Beach pool just doesn't have the same feel.

In fact, with the zero entry and pop jets at the courtyard pool, there were as many if not more families over there now. They are doing the activities in the courtyard pool, not sure how long that is planned to continue.

ETA: cgulls, I see you had the same thoughts, I really should read through everything before I post! I'm not in love with the new courtyard pool, but as changes go, it isn't too bad. Hate that the zero entry has you in knee deep water halfway, and the deep end is so less deep - and it is now far more busy. But, still a pretty pool, and the new fence is far superior! However, I didn't see an exit gate near Boca, did you???

Yes, there is an exit gate near Boca. The fence opens at the back of the walkway between the pool bar and the bathrooms. So, it opens up to the area where Boca meets Big Pine.

 

[cgulls]

Can't wait to see the pictures! Hope you had a great time!!!


I just wanted to repost...
How much time should I allow for travel from GF to Epcot WS via monorail? I'm thinking it was about 90 minutes???
Thanks!

Hi, these guys have an app that estimates travel times from point to point at WDW using different modes of transportation.

http://www.ourlaughingplace.com/iphone/GPSTWizApp.aspx#.UXrWJbXU_kU

And 90 minutes sounds high from GF to Epcot. The TWIZ app says 40 minutes to the Epcot turnstiles (so, add your walking time from the front entrance to your destination in World Showcase).

 

[k&a&c'smom]

Yes, there is an exit gate near Boca. The fence opens at the back of the walkway between the pool bar and the bathrooms. So, it opens up to the area where Boca meets Big Pine.

Oh, thanks - good to know. I didn't walk around the whole pool, just on the main building side. While we were in the pool, we alternated between pool and hot tub, so still didn't end up on that side of the pool.

 

[WDW1970]

I definitely agree with phyllis - the cabanas are not a good value right now. We were in the Beach pool for a short time (mostly too cold, I forgot it isn't as warm as the courtyard pool!) and none of the cabanas were in use. The noise over there would prevent a soothing time spent, even if just the half day, and with the waterfall inoperable, the Beach pool just doesn't have the same feel.

In fact, with the zero entry and pop jets at the courtyard pool, there were as many if not more families over there now. They are doing the activities in the courtyard pool, not sure how long that is planned to continue.

ETA: cgulls, I see you had the same thoughts, I really should read through everything before I post! I'm not in love with the new courtyard pool, but as changes go, it isn't too bad. Hate that the zero entry has you in knee deep water halfway, and the deep end is so less deep - and it is now far more busy. But, still a pretty pool, and the new fence is far superior! However, I didn't see an exit gate near Boca, did you???

I may have missed it but does anyone know when the beach pool waterfall will be operational again? Are they refurbishing it or is there another reason it is not operating right now?

Thanks!

 

[thisismyusername]

I definitely agree with phyllis - the cabanas are not a good value right now. We were in the Beach pool for a short time (mostly too cold, I forgot it isn't as warm as the courtyard pool!) and none of the cabanas were in use. The noise over there would prevent a soothing time spent, even if just the half day, and with the waterfall inoperable, the Beach pool just doesn't have the same feel.

In fact, with the zero entry and pop jets at the courtyard pool, there were as many if not more families over there now. They are doing the activities in the courtyard pool, not sure how long that is planned to continue.

ETA: cgulls, I see you had the same thoughts, I really should read through everything before I post! I'm not in love with the new courtyard pool, but as changes go, it isn't too bad. Hate that the zero entry has you in knee deep water halfway, and the deep end is so less deep - and it is now far more busy. But, still a pretty pool, and the new fence is far superior! However, I didn't see an exit gate near Boca, did you???

Thank you so much for your feedback! I think I'll cancel the reservation and we'll hang by the other pool instead. I'm bummed, but want to make sure it's an enjoyable and relaxing experience.

 

[MagicPrincess]

Thanks everyone! I remember running to the Biergarten one time because we were late- couldn't remember how much time we gave ourselves- maybe an hour is plenty! ))

 

[Sammie]

Those that nay say the Grand, I always ask, "Have you stayed there?"

The majority never have,......... enough said.


Here are a few photos of what the Villas rooms are suppose to look like.

http://dvcnews.com/index.php/compon...rand-floridian/2254-new-vgf-model-room-photos

 

[Sue M]

I hopped on this morning to say we just left the Grand and report about the pool and DVC construction, and found people up in arms! I haven't read all the posts, but thought I'd say - I've read the blog post everyone is discussing, and I thought it was hilarious!

As has been pointed out, this blogger has a candid style. He is more of a writer than a reviewer, to my mind. Someone who writes for the overall effect of the piece, rather than a black and white review of the resort, restaurant, etc.

I highly doubt anyone is stumbling on this one report and seeing it as an indictment of the Grand as a whole. We use easyWDW calendars and I've enjoyed the reviews on the site tremendously - goofy comments and all.



Oh, and I have some photos of the new courtyard pool fence being installed, along with Gasparilla's and Sandy Cove photos. When I get a chance, I'll upload and share. We had a wonderful stay at the Grand! There was some construction noise, but it didn't overly impact our stay. We didn't spend a lot of time out on the grounds, though, so I can't vouch for how it feels after hearing it for hours (in the pool, for instance - we swam once, for only about 2 hours).

I have to agree with you, I think Josh is hilarious I'm a bit behind, and haven't read the uproar. We also use his Crowd Calendars and they're pretty good.
Great pics!! Love it. More please.

 

[Sue M]

Hi there, I'm looking at all my options depending where DD is placed to work as a CM so its easier to see her as we're only going for a week and she won't get time off. My one memory of the GF marina was when we were on the boat to MK and two teens decided to 'moon' out the window, DD was about five and said they were very silly .

How exciting for DD! I think if you request Marina then you won't be on the DVC construction side. Too funny about the moon

 

[k&a&c'smom]

Hi I am new to the boards. I joined in Feb after booking a last minute birthday trip over March 16 -24 this year.While we were there we ate at Narcossees and I really loved the Grand Floridian. I am thinking of booking a trip for this coming July.With the summer rates it seems managable.We are celebrating our 40th wedding anniversary and would be traveling alone(no children). I thought it would be fun to do disney deluxe dining and eat at some of the 2 credit resteraunts. We stayed at POR in March and it was very nice. My husband needs a scooter (for distances) and I thought being on the monorail would be best.Acouple of years ago we stayed at the Poly for that reason.Do you have any suggestions for rooms that would be scooter friendly. We would only be staying 4 days and would at least visit MK AND EPCOT.What are any other special resteraunts would anyone reccomend. Thanks Nan

Welcome, and congrats on your 40th wedding anniversary! What a milestone! I think you will love the Grand.

I don't have any specific room requests that are better for scooters. I think all the rooms have plenty of space, except perhaps the dormer. You may want to make a request for "no dormer room" - these are on the upper floors, usually 4 and 5, but a few are on the 3rd floors.

All the restaurants at the Grand are very good, we especially love the GF Cafe. We eat there more than once per trip, usually at breakfast or lunch. Citricos is very nice, and a little quieter than Narcoossee's.

Oh goodness.... I guess I'm glad we can't go right now.
That sounds like my neighborhood, (we are victums of SANDY, so we hear a lot of that since that storm happened. ugh)

I'm so sorry to hear you are having to deal with the aftermath of Sandy. I hope the recovery goes swiftly and you won't have too much longer.

Hi there, I'm looking at all my options depending where DD is placed to work as a CM so its easier to see her as we're only going for a week and she won't get time off. My one memory of the GF marina was when we were on the boat to MK and two teens decided to 'moon' out the window, DD was about five and said they were very silly .

Congratulations to your DD, how fun! LOL about the mooning.

I have to agree with you, I think Josh is hilarious I'm a bit behind, and haven't read the uproar. We also use his Crowd Calendars and they're pretty good.
Great pics!! Love it. More please.

I'll try to get some more up soon! I took quite a few, one lady who saw me snapping in several locations said I was the picture-takin'est lady she ever saw!

 

[Disney_Princess83]

Hi Everyone,

Has anyone on the thread had any experience at the Ivy Trellis Salon? We will be doing a breakfast here the morning of MNSSHP and considering making an appointment to get my hair washed and styled for the party. The information I could find was a little limiting. I'm not too concerned about the price. I'm going as Ariel and as a red head anyway, I can't see the point of buying a wig. Will get my hair style in a similar fashion if possible. I have very long hair so I'm sure they can do something with it. I can bring in a photo of the type of style I'm looking for.

 

[k&a&c'smom]

Hi Everyone,

Has anyone on the thread had any experience at the Ivy Trellis Salon? We will be doing a breakfast here the morning of MNSSHP and considering making an appointment to get my hair washed and styled for the party. The information I could find was a little limiting. I'm not too concerned about the price. I'm going as Ariel and as a red head anyway, I can't see the point of buying a wig. Will get my hair style in a similar fashion if possible. I have very long hair so I'm sure they can do something with it. I can bring in a photo of the type of style I'm looking for.

We have had our hair styled a few times before going to V&A's, and DD is a red head, too, lots of hair! I should say, we had it done prior to the new management, so I can only speak for when it was run through the Nikki Bryan spas.

I doubt they will want to do a shampoo - they always told us not to wash our hair the day of the up do. It's harder for them to get it to stay up with clean hair.

We were both pleased with the results. I know BCV23 and her DD have had cuts there as well, and had no complaints.