I just found this thread yesterday and you'all have provided so much great information!
Last night I booked a stay at the Swan (teacher discount) for November 1-8. We haven't been to the F/W festival for 3 years and are excited to come back next fall! The cost was less than half the amount of a standard Beach Club room. I understand we still need to arrange for airport transportation, but its still a great price! Originally, our idea was to make a reservation at the Swan now and then wait for Disney discounts to come out. However, after reading this thread, I am not even interested in switching!
Now for my questions....
1. I booked the cheapest possible room. Where are we most likely to be located? I am an SPG member and included my membership number on our reservation, but I have the lowest membership status (preferred) so is an upgrade unlikely?
2. The Mears transfer seems to be the cheapest option. Any concerns about using them? Is it best to book it through the Swan website?
3. My Mom will need to rent a ECV. She normally rents from Apple. Do they deliver and pick up from the Swan?
4. I tried to link my reservation to MDE using the confirmation number from the Swan. I received a message saying that it couldn't find the number and that if I was trying to link a S/D reservation to wait 24 hours. How likely is this to work? If it doesn't link tonight, who should I call?
5. I believe our week includes the 1/2 marathon? What impact will that race have on our stay, if any?
THANKS so much and I will check in on this thread often before we go!