Blessed_wth_Triplets said:
Hi everyone! I can't believe I'm joining this thread! I never dreamed my family would ever stay at a Deluxe resort...let alone the GF! Long story short...we were booked with free dining for the end of August at AoA suite....but got a great deal for the GF...but no dining plan
this will be our first time paying OOP with no plan...but this will most likely be the only chance we have to stay at GF since we are a family of six and my youngest is 2. Sooo...I was going to choose the YC but at the last minute the
travel agent convinced me to do GF for the monorail with my young kids.
But I have to say...I'm a bit concerned with all the construction and the closure of one pool...right? Does anyone have any recent pictures of the pool area and construction? We have a standard room booked with garden view...cheapest I'm sure...and yes I know it will be cramped...but one can always hope for a free upgrade...right?
again...this is really a once in a lifetime chance for our family as we just can't afford suites at Deluxes in the future....but I just want to make sure I'm making the right decision.
Oh...and what building should I request with nice views not of construction. Also...the resort looks soooo big? No? Is it a long walk to the main building for transportation/monorail? Sorry so many questions...thank you!!
Congrats on your decision! I replied to your original thread when you were trying to decide and definitely think you made the right choice!
With regard to construction, it is definitely not ideal, but should not ruin your stay. You are traveling this upcoming August, correct? The themed pool on the beach is definitely not ideal since it is currently surrounded by walls and the beach may be walled off too, but it IS still open. Please also keep in mind that the large courtyard pool in the center of the resort (essentially a huge quiet pool) is open and not impacted. We have never found it to be too crowded! I know that there are recent pics of the construction on this thread (including the beach pool), but maybe someone can re-post them for you.
We were at the GF this past December when construction started and never heard a sound. Of course, this may have changed as construction progresses, but keep in mind that the resort itself is not centered around the construction area-- the only times we noticed it were while we were at the beach pool, walking to the Poly, or riding the monorail between the Poly and GF. You will likely spend more of your time away from the construction in the lobby, by the marina/boat dock where the castle view is, etc. The main letdown is not having access to the beach (someone correct me if I am mistaken about this) and not having that pretty Poly lake view.
Construction issues aside, I do still think the GF is the better choice over the YC (which we also love!) if you will spend more time in MK. That quick access to the GF via boat/monorail for afternoon breaks in the August heat will be invaluable. Heck-- the larger GF rooms alone make it the better choice for a family of 6!
As for buildings to request, I would personally opt for a garden view in either Boca Chica or Conch Key-- well located and not a bad view to be had in either! Lucky for you, none of the garden view rooms will overlook the construction- only lagoon view rooms in Big Pine Key. As for resort size, I do not find it to be spread out at all- in fact, it is the perfect size to me! Certainly not as spread out as the values and I would imagine AoA. If you want a building really close to the main building, I would opt for Big Pine Key (garden views overlook the quiet pool). The walking difference between Big Pine and the other buildings is pretty minimal, though.
Have a GREAT time! It is pretty special that your first deluxe stay will be at the flagship.
Try not to fall too in love with it!
ETA: I do not think you are missing out with the dining plan at all! Who wants lots of heavy meals in intense heat?! This should save you some $ and give you greater flexibility.