Some people would think that being on a world class beach (St. Thomas, Jamaica) or one of the best golf courses in the world (Hawaii) is much better than being on the grounds of a theme park. How about Central Park, steps away from Fifth Avenue? Real estate is pricier in these locations than at a man-made (however wonderful we feel it is) theme park. You're talking some of the most amazing vacation destinations in the world. That definately doesn't account for the price difference.
For many vacationers, theme parks are not the be-all, end-all of vacation destinations. What about being minutes away from history and cherished monuments in places like Rome, Athens and Paris? Many of these superbly luxorious hotels are cheaper than the GF and I don't think one can compare a theme park to the Coliseum. I've been having to justify my vacation choice to the people who take these sorts of vacations rather than theme park vacations for years. Though I adore WDW, I don't think this type of real estate can hold up. [/QUOTE]
Some people do think those destinations are much better than WDW, and they should go to those great places. (I personally think it is much more than a "theme park", but I digress.) But just because real estate is pricier in those locations, doesn't mean that is the reason for a price difference. The reason there is a price difference between the GF and the others is that people will pay for it! If the market will bear it , Disney will continue to charge that rate.
It doesn't matter what the hotels in Rome, Athens, and Paris charge. This type of real estate will hold up, it has for years and will continue to. Because people are still staying there and will continue to do so.
I don't think you can compare the GF to a Ritz-Carlton or other top-of-the-line chain resort/hotel. That type of place caters to a certain clientele. The WDW customer, even at the GF, is a different crowd. Many, many more children, a slightly more informal atmosphere, a generally less wealthy group.
I have stayed there and we enjoyed ourselves and had a positive experience. Having said that I would not tolerate a room that wasn't clean. I have changed rooms immediately after check in due to an unacceptable situation and was very happy with the customer service and attentiveness that I got. That was at the CR.
, but to each their own. personally the GF wold be the last place i'd want to stay at disney,even if money was no object. it just doesn't suit me very well.
I think the moderates are a great deal and worth every penny to upgrade from a Value.
