Is it just me or what?

[Michelle2]

GoPatsGoSox, you sound exactly like us...

My DH and I work very hard for our trips and when we take a vacation, we take a VACATION. If we can't afford to do it the way we really want to we wait and save some more until we can.

We even skipped last year (2004) and went a little bit more than 2 years without Disney, so that instead of our yearly trip to DL, we could go on the DCL cruise and stay GF RPC. It will be our first time in the main bldg, and I wouldn't have it any other way, especially at Christmas. We loved SL, but I found myself wishing we could be right in the middle of the action.

We have stayed at several Disney resorts since that first trip and all have their own brand of Disney magic. But on our last trip to the Contemporary (wow those rooms are *colorful*), I found myself a few times pining, yes PINING as I looked over at the red rooftops across the lake.

I guess I am just like that too, and I know that everyone is different to what they will spend money on, but wherever I go, from WDW, to DL to DLP or anywhere else, I know that if I dont stay where I truly want to, I will be pining for it the whole trip and wish that I just would have done it in the first place! That is just me though, I have a friend who will not pay to stay onsite at all. I think we both think each other is crazy! LOL To each his/her own.

Mister Disney, and GoPatsGosox, your posts made my day, and even more excited than ever for our early December trip at the GF RPC...thank you!!

 

[dznyntnh]

I agree, GF is a wonderful hotel and the one time I was able to stay there it was amazing.

I also agree, that you can find constantly negative reviews about any of the wdw hotels. I love POR, I have never had so much as a bad moment there, but entire threads are done on how bad someone's visit was there. I think many people have unrealistic expectations, either because it's Disney or because of how much it costs.

I have the same expectations of Disney that I have of any other hotel. They are reasonable and I have never been disappointed (with Disney).

I also think sometimes, people set themselves up for disappointment ('My trip was ruined, because I only got 5 of my 6 room requests') by creating unreasonable expectations. As wonderful as these boards are, I think sometimes they lend to these unreasonable expectations, everytime someone posts about a great experience they had 90% of us understand that it was great for them but probably won't happen for us while the other 10% think it happens for everyone.

 

[Cinderella37]

We're very fortunate that we do not have to save or "stretch" to travel or stay concierge. We could care less about the bottom line, but care deeply about proper service. I don't think that people who do have to save are necessarily trying to get their money's worth in a negative way, but just want something in return. We've stayed in lagoon view rooms as well as rooms in the RPC. Our problem with the GF is the decline in service from our first stay at the GF in 1996 to our 8th (and last) in 2003. I don't have unreal expectations, nor do I make many requests.

I do expect a clean room without beads, chocolates and dust bunnies big enough for their own pen on the floor, sheets without holes and a concierge staff without an attitude when we're paying over $600 per night. I also expected the same when we've stayed in a lagoon view room. We gave it a few tries after the service began to change and we stopped staying there. We love the BWI, though it is not on the level of some other luxury hotels we've stayed in, and will continue to stay there. I'm not saying the resort is perfect, but the attitude is completely different.

Oops. I forgot to add what I like about the GF. I do miss looking out the balcony door and seeing Cinderella's Castle- it's the best view in WDW, make that the world. The resort is beautiful and seems like it's a mile away from the parks. It's more resort oriented than some of the others. Plus, I really like the smell (call me crazy).

 

[GoPatsGoSox]

Glad you guys liked my story--I didn't realize how long it was until after I submitted the post.

I know what you mean Michelle. We went to Disney several years in a row and had a great time--but it's been over four years now since we've been down (for a variety of reasons) and we seriously need a fix. DH gave me the green light a couple of weeks ago for this fall and we're thinking of trying the Yacht or Beach Club this time. We were at BWV during the millenium celebration and that Epcot resort area had a really nice feel to it. Or, maybe a split stay between GF and Y or B.

 

[java]

I am so excited to be going back to the GF this year! We have not been there in about 7 years. I remember it as if it were yesterday- The beautiful lobby- the flowers- that cute Good morning guy-my robe all fun fun fun. We have been staying at the bc the past few years-because of location(we have added some more members to our family so MK is where we will spend alot of time this time-hence GF) So BC is right up there for us for other reasons. I can't wait to hear that music and walk into that beautiful lobby(first impression is key)

 

[TheNerdyMinnie]

ONE of mine would be relaxing in the lobby listening to the band in front of Mizners before dinner after a day at the parks.

Mister Disney, you wouldn't happen to know around what time the band plays? We've wanted to check them out but never have had the opportunity


I have three favorite things about the GF
1) The ping-pong table next to the pool
2) The ice cream pina coladas you can get at the pool bar
3) The gingerbread house they assemble during christmas...I've always wanted to take a bite out of it but DF says they'll remove me from resort grounds

 

[Mister Disney]

Mister Disney, you wouldn't happen to know around what time the band plays? We've wanted to check them out but never have had the opportunity

I think they play from like 5pm till 8 or 9 in the evening. They do take breaks OFTEN. Usually when they take a break, the piano player down stairs in the lobby plays.

 

[Alicnwondrln]

i agree with you Mister
i was thinking the same thing last night as i was reading a horror story over on the trip report boards about bad service at ASMU
it seems like there have been alot of bad reviews for alot of the resorts
theres also the woman who 2 free days and 2 freee days worth of passes from the GF for her bad service
its kinda scary i would be so pi88ed if i spent that kinda dough and had bad service
it seems though that many seem to have EXTREMELY high expectations when going to any reosrt but epsec the GF and i cant say i blame them but it certainly can make things worse when something ggoes wrong

 

[leighe]

My sister and I took a girls only trip right before Christmas last year. I surprised her with the GF (she used to call it the "wedding cake hotel" when we stayed at the Poly with my parents.) Our stay was fabulous! We felt so pampered. We loved hanging out in the lobby and we loved the Parasol Parade. The beaches are gorgeous. We loved our room decor - and the beds were soooooo comfy! We didn't encounter a single problem or rude guest. Our room was impeccably clean and turndown was wonderful!

It was so fabulous to look at the stunningly beautiful GF from across the lagoon while in the Magic Kingdom knowing that it was our "home" for our Disney stay!

 

[MNSusan]

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for starting this thread and for everyone that's posted positive things about the Grand Floridian. My spouse's favorite resort is AKL but I've always wanted to try the GF. I just made reservations for our first stay there in November. I don't think we have unrealistic expectations, but when all you read is the negatives, you start to wonder....

 

[rcraw45425]

GoPatsGoSox, try the YC< I think you'll find the ambiance similar to the GF more so than the BC. Cape May in the Lobby tend to make for a little chaos.

 

[bballmom56]

I've enjoyed reading all these posts! We last stayed at the GF in 1992 and 1993. I know many years have passed and reading all the other threads, it sounded like things had slipped. We had the most wonderful and magical times there! My kids were 3 yo and 7 yo in 92. They thought it was the most awesome place (and still do!). Everyone we met was so friendly and kind. We went with my parents and my father was in awe when he ordered room service for my mother. She wasn't feeling well - she wanted toast and tea. When it arrived, they brought a shiny Mickey toaster so she could make the toast herself and it would be hot! We stayed in Conch Key both times and thought that was the greatest location - right out near the water. The kids loved the pool, and the choice of taking the monorail or the boat, but the most magical memory we have is watching the Electric Water parade each night. There was just something very special about that. If I hear the music from it, it takes me right back to those moments.

We're in a different stage of life now and the "kids" are 16 and 21. We stayed at the Swan last year and will be there this year. We had a great time there and it's a wonderful hotel (and we got a fantastic rate). We visit the MK, but the kids prefer Epcot and MGM which are just so convenient from the Swan. But we did go back to the GF last year to visit and boy it really touched us. I just hope we'll be able to take our kids and grandkids there at least once!

 

[Cplofdisneynutz]

I've been reading reviews on DIS now for several months and read complaint after complaint after complaint about the GF.



Am I the only one that plans my vacations to be finanacially stress free, without the need of nickle and diming everything to death?

First off, yet another fine thread by you Mr Disney I agree with you. We try to make our vacations finacially stress free as well. I hate having to watch every penny. That is not to say we do not budget things out, but we plan for more than we will need and not what will "get us through'" sometimes that means taking a little longer between trips ( OMG was that blasphemy? ). Its worth it to us, makes things more magical IMHO.

As for the GF itself, we have never stayed there but are enchanted by it. From the 1st time we set foot in the lobby for our lunch at the GFC we fell in love. We visited the resort several times during our last visit, just to take it all in. We love the restaurants, especially V&A. The CM's there were all wonderful. DW2B had her hair done at the salon, and I must say that was quite an experience as well. The band in the lobby was also a very classy touch. One of my favorite stories about this resorts is about a little girl about 4 years old walking through the lobby with her parents. There was a bride coming down the stairs in her wedding gown on her way to the pavilion. The little girl yelled out, "look mommy a real princess!" The bride heard her and as she walked by the little girl she stopped and knelt down and in her best "princess voice" whispered, " I bet one day you will be a princess too." The little girl smiled and was so excited. Only at Disney can magic like that happen. Isn't that what going to Disney is all about? It's not about the money we spend, or satisfaction, or fullfilling needs, but MAGIC and believing in the one place on earth that everything is wonderful (even when it's not).

sorry if i deviated from the topic a bit!

 

[Lisa loves Pooh]

I LOVE the Grand Floridian--haven't been able to part with the money to stay there though. Hubby did book Contemporary for next weekend for a bachelor party (the cheapest thing available) while the girls are staying at All Star Music that we had booked months before on a code. So I should stay--we are closer to staying on the monorail line than before--once he sees how cool it is!

One day we will get there. In the meantime--I'll enjoy the lobby as a day guest!

 

[TammiMcMan]

If my DD8 was posting to this thread, she'd reply that her favorite part of the GF is ordering a grilled cheese sandwich from room service and enjoying it out on her balcony. She calls it her princess hotel.

For myself, it is definitely sitting in the RPC lounge, sipping a coffee laced with a little Baileys and enjoying the music from the GF Orchestra. I've even gotten my son to dance with his dear old mom on one or two occassions. We've had the pleasure of being able to spend many Disney vacations at this resort. The most special was a year ago January when it was just DH and myself. We were there celebrating our 40th birthdays and 20th wedding anniversary. We had booked a main building standard room, but upon arrival, they escorted us to the 5th floor turret honeymoon suite. It was absolutely incredible. They also sent up a complimentary bottle of champagne and autographed pictures from Mickey & Minnie. We didn't have much planned for that trip and it was a good thing, because I didn't even want to leave the room.

We have some wonderful memories associated with the GF and it will remain one of our families favorites.

Tammi

 

[disneybound05]

We stayed at the GF for the 1st time earlier this month and fell in LOVE with it. my kids won't think of staying anywhere else. we have NO complaints.

our favorite things: narcoossees; the orchestra; fresh flowers; smell of the lobby; friendly staff; quiet beach; ping pong; boat to the MK.... just to name a few.

however... part of me doesn't want us to be regulars of the GF. does that make sense???? i don't want to limit our experiences to this one resort just because we loved it the first time around. i'd like to try different deluxe resorts to add some variety. i want to check out the different views each has to offer, the different pools, restaurant, etc. every resort has something to offer. i don't want to do the same 'ole thing when we could be doing something new. sadly, the rest of my family has protested against a change. they are stuck on always staying at the GF.

for our May 2006 trip, we will be starting in Universal (Pacific Royal) and ending in Disney. i'd like to try the Yacht Club this time around. i've read that it is similar to the GF and, if i get enough good vibes from you DISers, i just may be able to convince my family to try the change of scenery.

TammiMcMan, or anyone else who has stayed at both the GF and the YC, how would you compare the two?? for example, do you love the GF but were disappointed with YC?

much thanks in advance.

 

[msteddom]

I know for many people including myself the Grand Floridian represents the the best that Disney has to offer in elegence, service and in price. It is the gold standard. I want to stay at the GF someday, I have loved it every time I have visited it. I know many people choose the GF for a "once in a lifetime" experience, and they want it to be perfect.


Melissa

 

[Mister Disney]

If my DD8 was posting to this thread, she'd reply that her favorite part of the GF is ordering a grilled cheese sandwich from room service and enjoying it out on her balcony. She calls it her princess hotel.

for those that read food threads with me.....WHERE'S the photo?

Seriously though,

For myself, it is definitely sitting in the RPC lounge, sipping a coffee laced with a little Baileys and enjoying the music from the GF Orchestra. I've even gotten my son to dance with his dear old mom on one or two occassions. We've had the pleasure of being able to spend many Disney vacations at this resort. The most special was a year ago January when it was just DH and myself. We were there celebrating our 40th birthdays and 20th wedding anniversary. We had booked a main building standard room, but upon arrival, they escorted us to the 5th floor turret honeymoon suite. It was absolutely incredible. They also sent up a complimentary bottle of champagne and autographed pictures from Mickey & Minnie. We didn't have much planned for that trip and it was a good thing, because I didn't even want to leave the room.

ahhhhhhhhhh,

This is the type of thing that makes the GF even more magical for me.

 

[Miss Inga Depointe]

(putting on the flame suit now....) Could my difference of experience be due to the fact that I've always had the ability to stay in RPC? Are people more apt to complain about the GF, if staying there is a "financial stretch" for them?

(double flame suit here....) It does seem like on DIS alot of people are so concerned about the "bottom" line in terms of getting everything on discount. Prime example is this whole MYW program / food thing. Am I the only one that plans my vacations to be finanacially stress free, without the need of nickle and diming everything to death?

No need for your flame suit - I'm not going to criticize you. And I know you want this to be a positive thread but you did ask these questions.

Personally, I don't think that people complain because it's a financial stretch for them. I think they complain because there are things that they don't like about it. We can afford to stay there. I've spent almost if not as much money at the Contemporary and the Polynesian and I've stayed at lots of really nice non-Disney hotels. I stayed at the GF once and just didn't think it was worth the money. Plus the theme just didn't do it for me.

Just like I know the Poly doesn't do it for everyone, I think you Grand Floridian fans just need to realize that not everyone is as enamored with it as you are. No offense. I'm really glad that you get such a kick out of it- that's what's so great about WDW. (Everyone's dreams and fantasies come true.)

I am really glad that people post what they do and don't like about resorts and report on problems they have. I like staying up to date on how things are going there. As much as I love the Poly, for example, what I've read here may be helping me make the decision about doing concierge next time.

I think we do too much second guessing about each others' experiences here. They are very personal, after all.

 

[GoPatsGoSox]

thanks rc--did you find the room size from GF to YC to be noticably smaller?