(2014-2020) Disney's GRAND FLORIDIAN RESORT & SPA + VILLAS Information & Questions

[flafan]

HI All,
Our trip is drawing near (July 1st) and we are booked into Sugarloaf. Are there any room suggestions I should email them. My only must have is a daybed son is 11 daughter 19 so sharing is not an option. My husband (celebrating his 50th) would like a view but I can't find much on views from Sugarloaf. Any and all comments/suggestions are welcomed and soon apprecited.
THANK YOU

 

[WishesQueen]

Good Afternoon All!!!

Hope everyone had a great weekend!! How exciting for all that are close to their trip!!!

Dumb question Blue - but what is the "PD menu" you mention in your answer about the cabanas? I know there's Gaspy's and then the Beach Pool Bar and Grill but I'm not sure what "PD" is?? TIA!

Also, does anyone know if you can get WiFi by the pool? My DH may have to do some work and I'd like to coax him out to the pool to work if he has to get something done. I was also thinking about a cabana and thought at one point it said WiFi was available in the cabanas but after looking this morning I think I must have just read that there was a TV out there.

Happy Saturday!

The Cabanas have wifi and as for lunch. The pool menu is different then Gaspies, but really good. The Cabana staff will take your order for lunch and use your dining plan if you have one, so it only counts as 1 counter service per guest. If you get a really great Cabana person, they even go to gaspies to get you something that isn't on the pool menu. If you choose ice cream as your dessert, they bring that later on and not with lunch. If you have any other questions don't hesitate to ask.

 

[mickeynut1]

10 more days from today we will be back home to the VGF... But who's counting.

HI All,
Our trip is drawing near (July 1st) and we are booked into Sugarloaf. Are there any room suggestions I should email them. My only must have is a daybed son is 11 daughter 19 so sharing is not an option. My husband (celebrating his 50th) would like a view but I can't find much on views from Sugarloaf. Any and all comments/suggestions are welcomed and soon apprecited.
THANK YOU

There were one or two turret rooms that had a regular couch (no sleeper), but I think that was changed when they did the refurbs and they added either a daybed or sleeper sofa to those rooms. Hopefully someone else will be able to verify that or correct me if I'm wrong. As far as views, SL rooms have either a view of the marina or courtyard, both of which are nice, IMO .

The Cabanas have wifi and as for lunch. The pool menu is different then Gaspies, but really good. The Cabana staff will take your order for lunch and use your dining plan if you have one, so it only counts as 1 counter service per guest. If you get a really great Cabana person, they even go to gaspies to get you something that isn't on the pool menu. If you choose ice cream as your dessert, they bring that later on and not with lunch. If you have any other questions don't hesitate to ask.

I'm not the one who asked, but great info, thanks .

 

[trishadono]

10 more days from today we will be back home to the VGF... But who's counting.

Hope you have a great trip!

 

[trishadono]

HI All,
Our trip is drawing near (July 1st) and we are booked into Sugarloaf. Are there any room suggestions I should email them. My only must have is a daybed son is 11 daughter 19 so sharing is not an option. My husband (celebrating his 50th) would like a view but I can't find much on views from Sugarloaf. Any and all comments/suggestions are welcomed and soon apprecited.
THANK YOU

I think all the rooms now have the daybed. I haven't seen anybody not get once since the refurb. SO! I would request which ever side you prefer, the marina or the courtyard. If you get to the room and no day bed you can always request a change but even the dormer rooms have been showing the couch/bed in the pictures.

I have had the courtyard twice and it is very peaceful. Also I liked I could watch dd lounging at the pool from the balcony in the room. Not that at 17 she needed to be watched I just liked that I could.

I have requested the marina side for my next stay. I would love to see the boats and monorail from my room. Keeping my fingers crossed!!

 

[flafan]

I think all the rooms now have the daybed. I haven't seen anybody not get once since the refurb. SO! I would request which ever side you prefer, the marina or the courtyard. If you get to the room and no day bed you can always request a change but even the dormer rooms have been showing the couch/bed in the pictures.

I have had the courtyard twice and it is very peaceful. Also I liked I could watch dd lounging at the pool from the balcony in the room. Not that at 17 she needed to be watched I just liked that I could.

I have requested the marina side for my next stay. I would love to see the boats and monorail from my room. Keeping my fingers crossed!!

Thank you for responding I know I will be happy with whatever we get but it would be nice to have a nice view for hubby he seems to really like sitting on the balcony at night after we all pass out from the theme parks all day

 

[flafan]

There were one or two turret rooms that had a regular couch (no sleeper), but I think that was changed when they did the refurbs and they added either a daybed or sleeper sofa to those rooms. Hopefully someone else will be able to verify that or correct me if I'm wrong. As far as views, SL rooms have either a view of the marina or courtyard, both of which are nice, IMO .

Thats great I can save a request on a higher floor and I am so excited just to stay there but hubby (who doesn't ask for much) really wants a nice view. Thank you for your reply

 

[BlueSkies]

10 more days from today we will be back home to the VGF... But who's counting.

Meet you at the pool!! ..lol...

HI All,
Our trip is drawing near (July 1st) and we are booked into Sugarloaf. Are there any room suggestions I should email them. My only must have is a daybed son is 11 daughter 19 so sharing is not an option. My husband (celebrating his 50th) would like a view but I can't find much on views from Sugarloaf. Any and all comments/suggestions are welcomed and soon apprecited.
THANK YOU

As Trish said..all rooms post rehab do have daybeds...so you should be A- ok with that...but might want to have it listed on your ressie anyway...Hope that you have your DHs birthday on there too...what a Grand place to ring in the big 5-0! I personally prefer the courtyard view...which is across the courtyard area..lol...out across the pool area (which is especially nice all lit up at night) ..and the pretty palm trees that there are an abundance of.....never had a marina view..but have heard that its quite a lovely view also...

Good Afternoon All!!!

Hope everyone had a great weekend!! How exciting for all that are close to their trip!!!



The Cabanas have wifi and as for lunch. The pool menu is different then Gaspies, but really good. The Cabana staff will take your order for lunch and use your dining plan if you have one, so it only counts as 1 counter service per guest. If you get a really great Cabana person, they even go to gaspies to get you something that isn't on the pool menu. If you choose ice cream as your dessert, they bring that later on and not with lunch. If you have any other questions don't hesitate to ask.

Hey Wishes Thank you for more detailed cabana info!! I am sure this will be very helpful to many folks...I learned some new info myself from your post!

Trish I am looking forward to pics of that marina view! ....

 

[mickeynut1]

I forgot to mention earlier that I talked to k&a&c'smom yesterday. She is doing well, just a little busy. She said she will try to make it back here soon .

Thats great I can save a request on a higher floor and I am so excited just to stay there but hubby (who doesn't ask for much) really wants a nice view. Thank you for your reply

You're welcome .

 

[flafan]

Thanks again everyone, I can't believe how excited I am getting. I will post lots of photos from the GF and the Sugar Loaf Club for everyone.

 

[loveshak22]

No dumb question at all... I know that your question has been answered...just wanted to add that although there is WiFi at the beach pool it can be spotty...

Thanks Blue! Good to know about the beach pool Wifi being spotty!

Good Afternoon All!!!

Hope everyone had a great weekend!! How exciting for all that are close to their trip!!!



The Cabanas have wifi and as for lunch. The pool menu is different then Gaspies, but really good. The Cabana staff will take your order for lunch and use your dining plan if you have one, so it only counts as 1 counter service per guest. If you get a really great Cabana person, they even go to gaspies to get you something that isn't on the pool menu. If you choose ice cream as your dessert, they bring that later on and not with lunch. If you have any other questions don't hesitate to ask.

Thanks!! I thought I read somewhere that the cabanas had Wifi but then when I went back to look recently I couldn't find anything about Wifi so thought maybe I made that up! I think we'll rent a cabana one of our resort days because it sounds like a great set-up! We'll be there in November so I'm hoping it's warm enough to swim. It looks like the average temps are the high 70's so as long as it's sunny that seems warm enough to me!

Will the cabana staff bring you alcoholic drinks from the bar? And last question, I know that at WDW CMs can get fired for taking tips (excluding as I understand it bellhops and housekeeping) but do you tip the cabana staff? I would assume yes because they seem more like wait staff as well and that's a category you definitely tip. And so do you tip off the cost of the cabana or the cost of the food and drinks you order? Not to turn this into a tipping thread because I know that sparks passionate debate at times!

 

[loveshak22]

6 days

10 more days from today we will be back home to the VGF... But who's counting.

HI All,
Our trip is drawing near (July 1st) and we are booked into Sugarloaf. Are there any room suggestions I should email them. My only must have is a daybed son is 11 daughter 19 so sharing is not an option. My husband (celebrating his 50th) would like a view but I can't find much on views from Sugarloaf. Any and all comments/suggestions are welcomed and soon apprecited.
THANK YOU

Woo-hoo to all of those heading to the GF soon!!! Have amazing trips and report back here to let us know just how amazing a time you are having!!!!

 

[TeacherDL]

We are here now, and all I can say is WOW!! This place is so amazing... Even better than described!! Thank you all for the wonderful information and all the help you've been. We are on the fourth floor of Boca Chica. I love this area!!

 

[WishesQueen]

Morning!!! Almost couldn't find us this morning on Page 2!!

Thanks Blue! Good to know about the beach pool Wifi being spotty!

Thanks!! I thought I read somewhere that the cabanas had Wifi but then when I went back to look recently I couldn't find anything about Wifi so thought maybe I made that up! I think we'll rent a cabana one of our resort days because it sounds like a great set-up! We'll be there in November so I'm hoping it's warm enough to swim. It looks like the average temps are the high 70's so as long as it's sunny that seems warm enough to me!

Will the cabana staff bring you alcoholic drinks from the bar? And last question, I know that at WDW CMs can get fired for taking tips (excluding as I understand it bellhops and housekeeping) but do you tip the cabana staff? I would assume yes because they seem more like wait staff as well and that's a category you definitely tip. And so do you tip off the cost of the cabana or the cost of the food and drinks you order? Not to turn this into a tipping thread because I know that sparks passionate debate at times!

Loveshak22 - Please ask as many questions as you want. I am definitely no where need a pro like the rest of the peeps here. Cabanas are necessary for my family, so I have a little experience and definitely don't mind sharing!!

Of course the get you drinks from the bar (best part)!!!! They'll get you pretzels, ice cream anything at the pool bar!! They usually run a tab and you pay it separately from the cabana because you pay for the cabana as soon as you get there. We definitely tip for drinks as they deliver and as for the cabana some people take the tip and some don't, but thats new. Before last year everyone took a tip at the end of the day. My DH has convinced most to take the tip claiming its more for getting lunch and drinks and they are allowed to take it for that I think. He also tries to tip heavier for drinks and lunch delivery if we have a cabana person we know wont take a tip and make up for it that way.

 

[loveshak22]

Morning!!! Almost couldn't find us this morning on Page 2!!



Loveshak22 - Please ask as many questions as you want. I am definitely no where need a pro like the rest of the peeps here. Cabanas are necessary for my family, so I have a little experience and definitely don't mind sharing!!

Of course the get you drinks from the bar (best part)!!!! They'll get you pretzels, ice cream anything at the pool bar!! They usually run a tab and you pay it separately from the cabana because you pay for the cabana as soon as you get there. We definitely tip for drinks as they deliver and as for the cabana some people take the tip and some don't, but thats new. Before last year everyone took a tip at the end of the day. My DH has convinced most to take the tip claiming its more for getting lunch and drinks and they are allowed to take it for that I think. He also tries to tip heavier for drinks and lunch delivery if we have a cabana person we know wont take a tip and make up for it that way.

Haha - I assumed they would get us drinks from the bar but am glad to get that confirmed

Thanks for the info on the tipping! I know it's kind of a sensitive issue at times for the CMs but if someone is helping is out all day I want to make sure to tip, if allowed! At first I didn't think we'd need the cabana but with info you are giving me it sounds awesome! Again - hoping it's warm enough to swim in mid-November! I think the only other question I can think of, and it may be off something you posted already, but can they be flexible with cabana times? I know it says 10-2 but I'd much rather do 11-3...or is flexibility with times based on demand for cabanas on the day I reserve? Thanks again!!!

157 days to go!!!

 

[RookieLady]

I am at SL now. This place is fabulous. Texting service is amazing. I will make a trip report when I get back but I have stayed at all resorts except FQ and Yacht and this place is the best hands down. Even my little men who balked at staying here say it's the best. Love the slide.

For the person that asked about room requests, I would ask away from the lobby. It's not too bad on the lobby but there is a family that lets their baby scream in the lounge and it echoes up into our room and is very disturbing. I wish it were a one time incident but it's not.


For anyone hesitating about this place, don't.

 

[mickeynut1]

Thanks again everyone, I can't believe how excited I am getting. I will post lots of photos from the GF and the Sugar Loaf Club for everyone.

You're going to have a great time!! Looking forward to your pics .

We are here now, and all I can say is WOW!! This place is so amazing... Even better than described!! Thank you all for the wonderful information and all the help you've been. We are on the fourth floor of Boca Chica. I love this area!!

Glad you're having a great time .

157 days to go!!!

The time will go fast .

I am at SL now. This place is fabulous. Texting service is amazing. I will make a trip report when I get back but I have stayed at all resorts except FQ and Yacht and this place is the best hands down. Even my little men who balked at staying here say it's the best. Love the slide.

For the person that asked about room requests, I would ask away from the lobby. It's not too bad on the lobby but there is a family that lets their baby scream in the lounge and it echoes up into our room and is very disturbing. I wish it were a one time incident but it's not.


For anyone hesitating about this place, don't.

Sorry about the screaming baby, but it sounds like you're having an amazing time otherwise. Looking forward to your review when you return .

 

[WishesQueen]

Haha - I assumed they would get us drinks from the bar but am glad to get that confirmed

Thanks for the info on the tipping! I know it's kind of a sensitive issue at times for the CMs but if someone is helping is out all day I want to make sure to tip, if allowed! At first I didn't think we'd need the cabana but with info you are giving me it sounds awesome! Again - hoping it's warm enough to swim in mid-November! I think the only other question I can think of, and it may be off something you posted already, but can they be flexible with cabana times? I know it says 10-2 but I'd much rather do 11-3...or is flexibility with times based on demand for cabanas on the day I reserve? Thanks again!!!

157 days to go!!!

Regarding the tipping...We would rather try and get turned away, then not and assume they can't take it. I am sure they appreciate the offer!! We didn't talk about the times, at least I didn't. Unfortunately the times are set in stone. Most of the time if there isn't a family after you, they don't mind if stay a little longer. If we do that we just clean up and try to keep everything straightened up to show our appreciation.

One last tip, if you get someone nice (which they all seem to be) the replenish the drinks if you ask and they tell you to take anything left you want because they can't use it once its in your refrig for another family. We go through the water like crazy and keep bringing it. We don't drink soda so we don't take it, but you can if you like for the room. You also get a great fruit platter!!!!

 

[trishadono]

I am at SL now. This place is fabulous. Texting service is amazing. I will make a trip report when I get back but I have stayed at all resorts except FQ and Yacht and this place is the best hands down. Even my little men who balked at staying here say it's the best. Love the slide.

For the person that asked about room requests, I would ask away from the lobby. It's not too bad on the lobby but there is a family that lets their baby scream in the lounge and it echoes up into our room and is very disturbing. I wish it were a one time incident but it's not.


For anyone hesitating about this place, don't.

Have you had tea time yet? Curious if they still have the trifle?? MY fav

 

[loveshak22]

Regarding the tipping...We would rather try and get turned away, then not and assume they can't take it. I am sure they appreciate the offer!! We didn't talk about the times, at least I didn't. Unfortunately the times are set in stone. Most of the time if there isn't a family after you, they don't mind if stay a little longer. If we do that we just clean up and try to keep everything straightened up to show our appreciation.

One last tip, if you get someone nice (which they all seem to be) the replenish the drinks if you ask and they tell you to take anything left you want because they can't use it once its in your refrig for another family. We go through the water like crazy and keep bringing it. We don't drink soda so we don't take it, but you can if you like for the room. You also get a great fruit platter!!!!

Thanks for that tip about the extras in the fridge! We do drink soda and water so it will be nice to take it back to the room fridge!!