Just for a quick update (we are in the room taking a break and watching some playoff baseball
)...
I emailed guest services last night to express my displeasure with how the situation was being handled (in general). I then called this morning because I read that if you are on-site, they like you to call if you have issues. I expressly stated that the CM's I spoke with were courteous and patient, but ultimately powerless to address my concerns. I spoke with 2 different CM's in Guest Relations who were both exceptionally kind, as well as a front desk manager at the resort. We ultimately reached a workable compromise and I'm just going to keep my fingers crossed that things go smoothly with the system upgrades. (No, there was no additional compensation requested, offered, or received).
Message boards crack me up - I would *NEVER* "go after" the front desk CM's. I've had the opportunity to say my piece to them and express my disappointment and frustration - but also to let them know I completely understand it is NOT their fault! They are going to have to deal with a whole bunch of very unhappy people on Tuesday morning - many of whom are going to be coming into the situation completely blind. I feel bad for them, I really do, but not because of anything I have done to them or plan to do to them (I have no plans to address this issue again with the front desk - no reason to at this point).
And as an aside, I cannot recommend enough contacting guest services by phone if you have an issue while you are on-site! I emailed yesterday afternoon (after they were closed) and called this morning - my email was already assigned to a CM and he called me back within 30 minutes. Within 30 minutes after that, the front desk manager had called me. Incredibly efficient and courteous service - made me feel better about the situation, even if they couldn't completely "fix" it!
I'm feeling decidedly MORE magical today (had a fantastic day at the Studios) so I will be optimistic that the process will go more smoothly than anticipated and will ultimately work out fine. Now, off to EPCOT to devour some food offerings from F&W...