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

[BlueSkies]

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 ..

I had been in touch with our lovely thread hostess a while back...and was happy to hear she was just busy...Hope things settle down soon..and she gets to pop in... Thanks for letting us know!

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.

Looking forward to that...photos are the next best thing to being there!

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!!

Teacher So happy to hear that you are having a grand time!!! Boca Chica is such a nice building to be in!!! Thanks for taking the time to check in!

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.

You definitely are a pro!! Thanks for sharing so much helpful info on the cabanas...There is nothing like hearing of peoples first hand experiences!

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.

Thanks to you too for checking in!! I agree..totally fabulous! The texting service really is such a nice perk of staying CL...expecially for booking additional FPP... Looking forward to reading all abut your trip when you get back....

loveshak A cabana day is really such a very nice pampering way to spend a pool day!

grannyminnie Whatcha been up to??

Hope that everyone is having a wonderful Wednesday!! preppy GF gal who is happily packing my suitcase!!

 

[aboveH20]

Earlier today I made a reservation for next week at the GF. It's a last minute, once in a lifetime splurge. My mother died last week after a tough couple of years so I'm going for a restorative, reflective, meditative trip for myself. (When I emailed my son about the trip he wrote back and asked what kind of celebration pin they'd give me )

Last minute dinner reservations don't look too promising, but I'm wondering about opinions of dining solo at GF restaurants if I can get in. I've dined solo at many, many WDW (and DL) restaurants, so it's not that I mind dining solo, just wondering since GF seems classier if I would feel out of place

And, I have to add . . . I checked the forecast for next week. NOT looking forward to the heat, but I usually go in February and have had some miserable weather then, too.

 

[loveshak22]

Earlier today I made a reservation for next week at the GF. It's a last minute, once in a lifetime splurge. My mother died last week after a tough couple of years so I'm going for a restorative, reflective, meditative trip for myself. (When I emailed my son about the trip he wrote back and asked what kind of celebration pin they'd give me )

Last minute dinner reservations don't look too promising, but I'm wondering about opinions of dining solo at GF restaurants if I can get in. I've dined solo at many, many WDW (and DL) restaurants, so it's not that I mind dining solo, just wondering since GF seems classier if I would feel out of place

And, I have to add . . . I checked the forecast for next week. NOT looking forward to the heat, but I usually go in February and have had some miserable weather then, too.

I'm sorry to hear about your mother...I can't even imagine how painful it must be losing a parent. I think it's great you are taking the time to do something for yourself as you deal with the loss.

I can't speak to solo dining at GF but have eaten solo at similar restaurants in my travels (not V&As high end but nice restaurants) and have always felt comfortable.

I hope the trip gives you the space to rest, relax, cry when you need to, and smile more often than not!!

 

[aboveH20]

I'm sorry to hear about your mother...I can't even imagine how painful it must be losing a parent. I think it's great you are taking the time to do something for yourself as you deal with the loss.

I can't speak to solo dining at GF but have eaten solo at similar restaurants in my travels (not V&As high end but nice restaurants) and have always felt comfortable.

I hope the trip gives you the space to rest, relax, cry when you need to, and smile more often than not!!

Thank you. She was 90 and it's been a tough couple of years so it's much easier to "celebrate" her release from this life.

 

[HelenParr]

Earlier today I made a reservation for next week at the GF. It's a last minute, once in a lifetime splurge. My mother died last week after a tough couple of years so I'm going for a restorative, reflective, meditative trip for myself. (When I emailed my son about the trip he wrote back and asked what kind of celebration pin they'd give me )

Last minute dinner reservations don't look too promising, but I'm wondering about opinions of dining solo at GF restaurants if I can get in. I've dined solo at many, many WDW (and DL) restaurants, so it's not that I mind dining solo, just wondering since GF seems classier if I would feel out of place

And, I have to add . . . I checked the forecast for next week. NOT looking forward to the heat, but I usually go in February and have had some miserable weather then, too.

I think you'd enjoy (and have good shot at getting a seat) at Citricos and/or Narcoossee's solo sitting at the bar. Also at California Grill at the bar if you want to take the monorail over and give that a shot. We always get great service at the bar of the signatures, and you can be as interactive or not with your fellow bar dining guests.

I hope your trip is restorative and happy. Great idea for a reset.

 

[hopeful4fl]

Earlier today I made a reservation for next week at the GF. It's a last minute, once in a lifetime splurge. My mother died last week after a tough couple of years so I'm going for a restorative, reflective, meditative trip for myself. (When I emailed my son about the trip he wrote back and asked what kind of celebration pin they'd give me )

Last minute dinner reservations don't look too promising, but I'm wondering about opinions of dining solo at GF restaurants if I can get in. I've dined solo at many, many WDW (and DL) restaurants, so it's not that I mind dining solo, just wondering since GF seems classier if I would feel out of place

And, I have to add . . . I checked the forecast for next week. NOT looking forward to the heat, but I usually go in February and have had some miserable weather then, too.

Sorry for your loss.
GF is (at least in my opinion) a very good place for solo dining. It is more peaceful and reserved and frankly is a good place for inner reflection and simply drinking in your surroundings.
Hope you have a very pleasant trip.

 

[trishadono]

Earlier today I made a reservation for next week at the GF. It's a last minute, once in a lifetime splurge. My mother died last week after a tough couple of years so I'm going for a restorative, reflective, meditative trip for myself. (When I emailed my son about the trip he wrote back and asked what kind of celebration pin they'd give me )

Last minute dinner reservations don't look too promising, but I'm wondering about opinions of dining solo at GF restaurants if I can get in. I've dined solo at many, many WDW (and DL) restaurants, so it's not that I mind dining solo, just wondering since GF seems classier if I would feel out of place

And, I have to add . . . I checked the forecast for next week. NOT looking forward to the heat, but I usually go in February and have had some miserable weather then, too.

Back in the fall of 2013 we had Dfil funeral on a Saturday then dh and I were at gf RPC that following Friday. After many months of hospital visits out of state my dh really needed the rest. We had a wonderful time too. Just spent time remembering all the good times.

Just going to add with the convenience of the monorail try cr or poly for a meal too.

Sorry for your loss.

 

[Lisann]

Earlier today I made a reservation for next week at the GF. It's a last minute, once in a lifetime splurge. My mother died last week after a tough couple of years so I'm going for a restorative, reflective, meditative trip for myself. (When I emailed my son about the trip he wrote back and asked what kind of celebration pin they'd give me )

Last minute dinner reservations don't look too promising, but I'm wondering about opinions of dining solo at GF restaurants if I can get in. I've dined solo at many, many WDW (and DL) restaurants, so it's not that I mind dining solo, just wondering since GF seems classier if I would feel out of place

And, I have to add . . . I checked the forecast for next week. NOT looking forward to the heat, but I usually go in February and have had some miserable weather then, too.

I am piping in, too. Honestly, though, I can't think of a better, 'happier' place to reflect upon your loved one. Solo trips are tough, though, at least for me. I've only done one, and really wished for someone to share my time with.

I am glad you are taking time for yourself. Laugh, smile and cry at your happy place. Big hug.

 

[Lisann]

I have a question for you pros:

I can't find a definitive answer on this. Is the sofa in the outer building deluxe rooms just like the sofas (day beds) in all the other GF rooms, meaning, the room will sleep 5? Obviously, the WDW website says only 4 can sleep in the outer bldg deluxe rooms, but then again, they haven't proofread or updated their own site (as usual).

Obviously, it's the same exact sofa, so I am assuming that 5 can sleep in these rooms? Someone please help if you know the answer, or have stayed in this room type recently.

 

[mickeynut1]

I had been in touch with our lovely thread hostess a while back...and was happy to hear she was just busy...Hope things settle down soon..and she gets to pop in... Thanks for letting us know!

You're welcome . Hopefully we'll see her back here soon.

Earlier today I made a reservation for next week at the GF. It's a last minute, once in a lifetime splurge. My mother died last week after a tough couple of years so I'm going for a restorative, reflective, meditative trip for myself. (When I emailed my son about the trip he wrote back and asked what kind of celebration pin they'd give me )

Last minute dinner reservations don't look too promising, but I'm wondering about opinions of dining solo at GF restaurants if I can get in. I've dined solo at many, many WDW (and DL) restaurants, so it's not that I mind dining solo, just wondering since GF seems classier if I would feel out of place

And, I have to add . . . I checked the forecast for next week. NOT looking forward to the heat, but I usually go in February and have had some miserable weather then, too.

I'm so sorry for your loss . I hope your trip gives you the rest and peace you need at this difficult time.

 

[Sue M]

Earlier today I made a reservation for next week at the GF. It's a last minute, once in a lifetime splurge. My mother died last week after a tough couple of years so I'm going for a restorative, reflective, meditative trip for myself. (When I emailed my son about the trip he wrote back and asked what kind of celebration pin they'd give me )

Last minute dinner reservations don't look too promising, but I'm wondering about opinions of dining solo at GF restaurants if I can get in. I've dined solo at many, many WDW (and DL) restaurants, so it's not that I mind dining solo, just wondering since GF seems classier if I would feel out of place

And, I have to add . . . I checked the forecast for next week. NOT looking forward to the heat, but I usually go in February and have had some miserable weather then, too.

I'm sorry for your loss. GF will be a great place to find peace and reflection on the better times. I don't know how easy getting a table will be as a walk up. Perhaps lunches would be easier. We love lunch at GF Cafe, and Kona Cafe. They never seem busy for lunch. Brown Derby is another great place for lunch. Love their Cobb Salad.

 

[baler31]

I have a question for you pros:

I can't find a definitive answer on this. Is the sofa in the outer building deluxe rooms just like the sofas (day beds) in all the other GF rooms, meaning, the room will sleep 5? Obviously, the WDW website says only 4 can sleep in the outer bldg deluxe rooms, but then again, they haven't proofread or updated their own site (as usual).

Obviously, it's the same exact sofa, so I am assuming that 5 can sleep in these rooms? Someone please help if you know the answer, or have stayed in this room type recently.

I have stayed in the turret in SL and it was the regular daybed. I know poster hairychest posted photos of the outer bldg deluxe and it also had a regular daybed.

 

[Lisann]

Thank you, baler31. It will be nice to sleep 3 people, all in our own bed.

 

[Chovy]

I have stayed in the turret in SL and it was the regular daybed. I know poster hairychest posted photos of the outer bldg deluxe and it also had a regular daybed.

I have spent the better part of today wondering something similar. We are considering the king deluxe in the main building but would prefer the daybed to the pullout sofa but I can't seem to find a definitive answer anywhere! I'm assuming based on the above posts that in the refurb, daybeds were put in those rooms but would love it if someone could confirm.

We are currently booked at WL but have read about plans for construction so I'm exploring other options.

Thanks to anyone who can help!

 

[VS85]

Earlier today I made a reservation for next week at the GF. It's a last minute, once in a lifetime splurge. My mother died last week after a tough couple of years so I'm going for a restorative, reflective, meditative trip for myself. (When I emailed my son about the trip he wrote back and asked what kind of celebration pin they'd give me )

Last minute dinner reservations don't look too promising, but I'm wondering about opinions of dining solo at GF restaurants if I can get in. I've dined solo at many, many WDW (and DL) restaurants, so it's not that I mind dining solo, just wondering since GF seems classier if I would feel out of place

And, I have to add . . . I checked the forecast for next week. NOT looking forward to the heat, but I usually go in February and have had some miserable weather then, too.

I don't have any advice regarding solo dining (except to keep checking those ADRs... Something always pops up!), but just wanted to send you hugs. I'm so sorry for your loss. I hope this trip helps you relax and reflect. Take good care!

 

[baler31]

I have spent the better part of today wondering something similar. We are considering the king deluxe in the main building but would prefer the daybed to the pullout sofa but I can't seem to find a definitive answer anywhere! I'm assuming based on the above posts that in the refurb, daybeds were put in those rooms but would love it if someone could confirm.

We are currently booked at WL but have read about plans for construction so I'm exploring other options.

Thanks to anyone who can help!

I have stayed in the king deluxe twice since the refurb. Both rooms had a pull out sofa as opposed to the daybed. We did not use the sofa and requested and received a rollaway instead.

 

[maryj11]

I have 2 questions. I was reading the first page of this thread and saw that there is a make up mirror in the rooms. What type of make up mirror are they? I need one that has magnification because I can't see without my glasses .
I also wanted to know what options are available to choose from when we do online check in? Thanks for any help! We are getting so excited for our first stay at GF

 

[Networth]

I have 2 questions. I was reading the first page of this thread and saw that there is a make up mirror in the rooms. What type of make up mirror are they? I need one that has magnification because I can't see without my glasses .
I also wanted to know what options are available to choose from when we do online check in? Thanks for any help! We are getting so excited for our first stay at GF

1. The make up mirror has two sides and one is magnified with the internal lights around the rim. (I only know this because of my better half).

2. You can choose these options depending on what room selection you chose.

• Near Convention Center
• Ground Floor
• Big Pine Key Bldg
• Sago Key Bldg
• Boca Chica Bldg
• Conch Key Bldg
• Lower Floor
• Upper Floor
• Dormer Room

 

[Circusgirl]

Earlier today I made a reservation for next week at the GF. It's a last minute, once in a lifetime splurge. My mother died last week after a tough couple of years so I'm going for a restorative, reflective, meditative trip for myself. (When I emailed my son about the trip he wrote back and asked what kind of celebration pin they'd give me )

Last minute dinner reservations don't look too promising, but I'm wondering about opinions of dining solo at GF restaurants if I can get in. I've dined solo at many, many WDW (and DL) restaurants, so it's not that I mind dining solo, just wondering since GF seems classier if I would feel out of place

And, I have to add . . . I checked the forecast for next week. NOT looking forward to the heat, but I usually go in February and have had some miserable weather then, too.

My best thoughts to you in this time of grieving. It is a wonderful idea to give yourself space and time in a beautiful place where you will be very well taken care of.

I have dined solo at Citrico's, Victoria and Albert's and the Grand Floridian Cafe. I have never felt awkward or out of place. I usually read or write in my journal during meals, and take food photos of course.

 

[MaggiesMomNJ]

Does anyone have pics of MMouse Mercantile?