2014 Grand Floridian Resort & Villas FAQ: Vacationing in Grand Style!

[BlueSkies]

Umm, what's the parasol parade?

I'm planning my first GF stay for this fall, and am utterly clueless. (I am working my way through this thread a little at a time.)

I see that your question has already been answered by another lovely GF fan! the classyabk.. Just wanted to say Hi and welcome to the GF forum... This is a great place to help plan and grand vacation!

After a lot of thought, I decided to switch to GF. Taking away the pool hopping was the last straw. Can't do 14 days with just East Pool so we have 2 nights Sugar Loaf, then 12 nights regular view room. I'm going to request Boca again. We loved our room there last August. Very central, and liked pool view.
I'm going to keep it a secret from my daughter. Last Aug we only stayed at GF 2 nights before our 12 at YC just to see if we liked GF. We loved it. Daughter (adult) didn't want to leave

Villas weren't open yet when we stayed. What can we expect? Is it very different now? Odd they didn't add a Villa pool. Only DVC not to.

I was jealous of your nice long stay at the Poly..and now that you are sting at the GF for that loooong...I am even more jealous!! Boca Chica is a great building...such pretty vies of the pool and the main building too and perfect in the summer time with the courtyard pool just steps away.... You never know the GF might end up being your new fave!

Thanks for the info! I had read somewhere that the health club did not a restroom so I wanted to check on that.

You're welcome....

I think they didn't add a pool because the beach pool is so close to the villas.

The Contemporary, the Polynesian and the Wilderness Lodge have two pools.

Maybe they wanted all of the Magic Kingdom resorts to be the same.

Candy

Hi Candy You are probably right about the whole pool thing...I just wish that they would have added a dedicated one for the VGF...even during our winter stay you could see the difference in how busy the quieter courtyard pool was...not to mention the beach pool...

Poly has the best to go stuff! I was just in SL in January and I don't remember to go bowl but they do have cups.(coffee).

How I adjust is I bring those plastic stretchy bowl covers(look like shower caps) in asst sizes. I use those with bowls and keep stuff in room and frig. If I want to take to the park then I try to fit into coffee cup with a lid.

Examples. For fruit I prefer a bowl with cover for in my room but if I want some fruit for in the park (waiting in a line, etc) I put some in the coffee cup with lid and took a fork or 2 with me. I did the same with the breakfast muffins/pastries and afternoon cookies.

It seems like I am never hungry for the food when it is out

I also grab a glass of wine or juice and put a cover on it and put in my frig for later too.

I also bring baggies for cookies

For SL dd loved the scones and would make up a plate with cream and jam and I would cover and save for later too! I think she would only eat scones for all meals if I wasn't watching her I'm a good mom so first thing I booked for our poly stay was a lunch time Tea Room reservation.

Someone has their lounge snacking down to a science....lol...Never seen to go bowls in either GF CL...but we have learned to be very creative with the to go cups too....I have to those plastic covers ..great for outdoor dining...Think I will be adding them to my pack list... If you forget them..I guess you could use a handy shower cap too...I kid..I kid...lol!!!!!

Quick question: I have a pre RD ADR for crystal palace for 8 am. What time does monorail or boat start running? TIA

The transportation is generally running about an hour before the park opens...you can always double check with the concierge desk in the lobby...it is staffed from 7am...and the CMs there are very helpful...

pas Take the plunge!!! lol...Maybe a split stay will have SL dates available..MickeyNut has suggested that split to me...just passing along the idea. : ..GF enabler here...LOL..!!

Hi there MickeyNut, grannieminnie ahcupcake MommyGina k&a&csmom..and all the rest of my fellow GF fans!

Hope that everyone is having a wonderful Wednesday... preppy GF gal who is now packing stuff to store food in!! lol...

 

[mickeynut1]

This sounds very familiar to me....
Once I started talking to a family that wasn't even mine because they deserted me and I didn't realize it until I looked like a fool.

It's nice to know I'm not the only crazy picture taker whose family gets tired of stopping for pics . I've never started a conversation with another family, but I have made a comment or two, only to realize after the fact that I was talking to nobody (or to strangers who were wondering who I was talking to ).

pas Take the plunge!!! lol...Maybe a split stay will have SL dates available..MickeyNut has suggested that split to me...just passing along the idea. : ..GF enabler here...LOL..!!

I agree.....take the plunge to RPC, pas ...as I join BlueSkies in being an enabler . Or, do an RPC/WL CL split .

 

[pas130]

Good to "see" you back. I hope you will come back more often, even if it is just to say "hello" .

I get on twice a week if I am lucky. Darn school! I took a midterm today so I am taking the rest of the day off! I lurk though A LOT!

pas Take the plunge!!! lol...Maybe a split stay will have SL dates available..MickeyNut has suggested that split to me...just passing along the idea. : ..GF enabler here...LOL..!!

My issue is if I book less than 6 nights the discount goes down so I am kinda all or nothing.....I don't need too much arm twisting LOL RPC is my DREAM!

ETA: All booked up with the summer discount

I agree.....take the plunge to RPC, pas ...as I join BlueSkies in being an enabler . Or, do an RPC/WL CL split .

Ahhhhhh, the DH doesn't want a split But he would LOVE the offerings at RPC, he did at SL

Well, yeah Blue...I just MAY have been thinking about you and the "packing, re-packing dance"! Whatever gets the job done.... I am doing good. Have not packed shoes yet, but most clothes, and incidentals (Minnie hat, MBs, etc.) 5 days to go!!

 

[mickeynut1]

I get on twice a week if I am lucky. Darn school! I took a midterm today so I am taking the rest of the day off! I lurk though A LOT!

My issue is if I book less than 6 nights the discount goes down so I am kinda all or nothing.....I don't need too much arm twisting LOL RPC is my DREAM!

ETA: All booked up with the summer discount

Ahhhhhh, the DH doesn't want a split But he would LOVE the offerings at RPC, he did at SL

Sorry things are so busy for you with school, but I hope school is going well .

Ya the way they did the RO discounts kind of stinks for split stays as it's less of a discount for just a few nights . Sorry RPC wasn't available for your dates, but WL CL is great, so I know you'll have a great time there .

My DH is the same way on splits if it's a short trip. He doesn't like to move, but wouldn't mind it if it was a 9 or 10+ night trip...anything shorter than that and he prefers to stay in one place .

 

[ahcupcake]

Good Afternoon fellow GF lovers
It's a little soggy in my part of PA.....No real trips planned but tons of faux/fantasy trips

Well, yeah Blue...I just MAY have been thinking about you and the "packing, re-packing dance"! Whatever gets the job done.... I am doing good. Have not packed shoes yet, but most clothes, and incidentals (Minnie hat, MBs, etc.) 5 days to go!!

In case I don't get back here before you go SAFE TRAVELS!

The courtyard pool at the GF is now fenced in...Not sure how they know who are guests and who are not... but I do believe there are periodic checks??



Congratulations on your first stay at the GF! There is a wealth of information on the very first page of this thread with regards to the activities and the health club as well complete with pictures...

As ahcupcake said there is no longer a lady bug release..hasn't been for quite some time...The parasol parade is done a few mornings each week..but not every morning...

There are lots of poolside activities every day....Goofy Bingo ,Rubber Ducky races to name a few...a pool party bash...dance party on the beach.. these generally start at 1pm and end about 6...

There is also the campfire on the beach..followed by Movies Under the Stars...that's all I can think of at the moment..lol...

Happy planning..I bet this wont be your last GF stay!

ahcupcake What a fun day!Really enjoyed all of the window shopping and that wonderful lunch..and getting to catch up with you and your Mom...I had some sore feet too..we sure did cover a lot of ground...

Can't believe I forgot about the pool activities and the movies on "the beach" along with the s'mores. UGH guess that's what happens when you turn 29 .....

Yes it was lot's of fun, great seeing you as well..No I know better, wear shoes with an arch.......Ooooo and on a fab note I got an early bday present from DWTS my Maks finally won

Blue and ahcupcake, did you guys eat anyplace really good this weekend?? Inquiring minds want to know, and besides, it's all about the food!!

We ate at fab Italian restaurant called Becco ( it's on 46th St between 8th & 9th in NYC for those interested) It's owned by Joe Bastianich who can be seen on Fox's Master Chef, his mom Lidia also has a show on PBS and owns several restaurants. So I highly recommend Becco it you ever get to NYC

Hi there MickeyNut, grannieminnie ahcupcake MommyGina k&a&csmom..and all the rest of my fellow GF fans!

Hope that everyone is having a wonderful Wednesday... preppy GF gal who is now packing stuff to store food in!! lol...

Hi Blue & MickeyNut

 

[pas130]

Sorry things are so busy for you with school, but I hope school is going well .

Ya the way they did the RO discounts kind of stinks for split stays as it's less of a discount for just a few nights . Sorry RPC wasn't available for your dates, but WL CL is great, so I know you'll have a great time there .

My DH is the same way on splits if it's a short trip. He doesn't like to move, but wouldn't mind it if it was a 9 or 10+ night trip...anything shorter than that and he prefers to stay in one place .

I have a 3.9 GPA so far! Rocking the Masters degree LOL. That's the issue with DH we have 6 nights at the beach and 7 at WL CL...I am really pushing it with a week at Disney too so I need to tread lightly. I think WL CL is just what he needs to fall back in love with WDW. He adored everyone on our couple trip

 

[trishadono]

I have a 3.9 GPA so far! Rocking the Masters degree LOL. That's the issue with DH we have 6 nights at the beach and 7 at WL CL...I am really pushing it with a week at Disney too so I need to tread lightly. I think WL CL is just what he needs to fall back in love with WDW. He adored everyone on our couple trip

Been reading about you studying for it seems like forever. So glad all that hard work is paying off

 

[mickeynut1]

It's a little soggy in my part of PA.....No real trips planned but tons of faux/fantasy trips

Hi Blue & MickeyNut

Hi ahcupcake .

Sorry it's so rainy in PA.....hopefully it clears up for you soon. Our day is filled with sun and 80 degree temps, although we have had our fair share of rain the last couple of weeks, so hopefully your rainy days are short lived with sun and warmth to follow .

I have a 3.9 GPA so far! Rocking the Masters degree LOL. That's the issue with DH we have 6 nights at the beach and 7 at WL CL...I am really pushing it with a week at Disney too so I need to tread lightly. I think WL CL is just what he needs to fall back in love with WDW. He adored everyone on our couple trip

WTG on the Masters degree and congrats on the awesome GPA . Things might be a little hectic with school, but it looks like it's paying off and will be totally worth it in the end .

Your vacation sounds great . WL CL is amazing (as you already know) and it ranks a very close second to RPC for me, so I think it's a great choice .

 

[Tinkerkell007]

I apologize if this has been asked, I tried searching but couldn't find an exact answer.

Is the movies under the stars on the beach at GF? And also, can you see the water parade from where it's located? Is there a mug refill station by the pool?

Thank you. I'm sure I can find the last question somewhere but I'll just throw it in there as well.

 

[Sue M]

Hey friend!,I'm sorry you had to change, but I totally get it!!! Say hi to Candace in the lounge...if she's there LOL. And I will definitely be seeing you in August

No changing still, I just lurk here...love my GF peeps only RPC available for my dates. Going back to WL thread before I email my TA hahaha

I didn't know Candace will be at GF! Can't keep up with all our RCers lol!
Did you see my post about swapping Trails End breakfast to 1900?

MickeyNut & Trish thanks!! It did take me a long time thinking about it. Was taking the wait & see attitude. I really wanted to stay at Poly. But, when they pulled out the GF pool, that did it. And looking at new construction pics at GCH, ugh.
We stayed at GF last summer before YC and really love GF. So now very excited to return!!

 

[grannyminnie]

Hi, ahcupcake...thanks for that restaurant info! Sounds yummy! Italian food is my fave! Wish we had known about it when DH and I were in NYC last November!

SueM, congrats on your summer booking, with a discount! I know you'll enjoy it!

I'm down to 3 days and ready to go!!! I keep checking to see if I can get us a better FP ressie for the 7DMT. Right now we're between 6 and 7, but I fear that means we won't be able to find a 4th FP available after that late hour in the day.

 

[MommyGina]

grannyminnie - Have a Grand time and safe travel. Let us know how you like the new room décor. I hope the weather is good for you. Enjoy your trip.

 

[mickeynut1]

MickeyNut & Trish thanks!! It did take me a long time thinking about it. Was taking the wait & see attitude. I really wanted to stay at Poly. But, when they pulled out the GF pool, that did it. And looking at new construction pics at GCH, ugh.
We stayed at GF last summer before YC and really love GF. So now very excited to return!!

I don't blame you.....even though I LOVE the Poly, no pool would be an issue for me, too . I think the GF is a great alternative and since you already know you love it there, I'm sure you will have a fantastic trip .

I'm down to 3 days and ready to go!!! I keep checking to see if I can get us a better FP ressie for the 7DMT. Right now we're between 6 and 7, but I fear that means we won't be able to find a 4th FP available after that late hour in the day.

Yay for only 3 more days .

Good luck getting a better FP for 7DMT .

 

[grannyminnie]

grannyminnie - Have a Grand time and safe travel. Let us know how you like the new room décor. I hope the weather is good for you. Enjoy your trip.

Thanks so much! I already feel as if I am not going to like the new room decor. It just does not have the Victorian feel it should.
I've been keeping an eye on weather.com and it looks too hot for me! And for my sister, who is not able to enjoy being outside in high temps due to a medical issue.

 

[grannyminnie]

I don't blame you.....even though I LOVE the Poly, no pool would be an issue for me, too . I think the GF is a great alternative and since you already know you love it there, I'm sure you will have a fantastic trip .



Yay for only 3 more days .

Good luck getting a better FP for 7DMT .

Yay, indeed!! Very excited and ready to rock the mine train!! Even if we don't get a better time, we have decided that we will just get in line and enjoy exploring the attraction...to keep us out of 90 degree temps! Plus, that way we will have 2 rides on it!

 

[BlueSkies]

Morning All...

I have a 3.9 GPA so far! Rocking the Masters degree LOL. That's the issue with DH we have 6 nights at the beach and 7 at WL CL...I am really pushing it with a week at Disney too so I need to tread lightly. I think WL CL is just what he needs to fall back in love with WDW. He adored everyone on our couple trip

Many congratualtions on that pas..not an easy feat..no less doing that while being a working mom!

I apologize if this has been asked, I tried searching but couldn't find an exact answer.

Is the movies under the stars on the beach at GF? And also, can you see the water parade from where it's located? Is there a mug refill station by the pool?

Thank you. I'm sure I can find the last question somewhere but I'll just throw it in there as well.

No apologies necessary.. Yes Movies Under the Stars is on the GF beach... While I have never watched the EWP from that area I do believe you would be able to see it... Not sure about the refillable mug station..Hopefully someone will come along with the answer to that... also check page one of this thread...k&a&c'smom has lots of good info and pics...and I am betting the mug info will be there...

I'm down to 3 days and ready to go!!! I keep checking to see if I can get us a better FP ressie for the 7DMT. Right now we're between 6 and 7, but I fear that means we won't be able to find a 4th FP available after that late hour in the day.

Good morning my friend! Its almost trip time!!!! Did you pack your shoes yet!!?? lol...You will be needing those... I have been checking the temps too..Its gonna be hot hot hot ...Strolling thru the shops is such a nice way to cool off though...and maybe find things that you might "need" ...Hope you get to move your 7DMR FP+...

~ Was reading on the Theme Park boards that some guests have been able to ride on the 7DMT...guess a sort of soft opening !! And the reviews are good!...Sounds like lots of attention was paid to detail..and while the ride is fast and fun...its not TOO fast... I am was very happy to read this... while I enjoy BTMRR I am not a fan of the drop in Splash Mountain..Cant wait!!

Hope that everyone is having a terrific Thursday...

 

[Tinkerkell007]

Thanks Blueskies!

 

[grannyminnie]

Morning All...




Many congratualtions on that pas..not an easy feat..no less doing that while being a working mom!



No apologies necessary.. Yes Movies Under the Stars is on the GF beach... While I have never watched the EWP from that area I do believe you would be able to see it... Not sure about the refillable mug station..Hopefully someone will come along with the answer to that... also check page one of this thread...k&a&c'smom has lots of good info and pics...and I am betting the mug info will be there...



Good morning my friend! Its almost trip time!!!! Did you pack your shoes yet!!?? lol...You will be needing those... I have been checking the temps too..Its gonna be hot hot hot ...Strolling thru the shops is such a nice way to cool off though...and maybe find things that you might "need" ...Hope you get to move your 7DMR FP+...

~ Was reading on the Theme Park boards that some guests have been able to ride on the 7DMT...guess a sort of soft opening !! And the reviews are good!...Sounds like lots of attention was paid to detail..and while the ride is fast and fun...its not TOO fast... I am was very happy to read this... while I enjoy BTMRR I am not a fan of the drop in Splash Mountain..Cant wait!!

Hope that everyone is having a terrific Thursday...

I'm the same way, Blue...I like BTMRR (my sis does not, so I ride it alone sometimes!), not the drop on Splash Mtn. Yes, shoes are in!

 

[abk96]

Good morning! Well my daughter's team is going to try for Cheer Nationals next year. So I will be one of those "Cheer People" that everyone dreads here on the DIS. I'm happy for my daughter since it's been her dream for awhile now. Not so happy about staying at a value. I've never been so I'm trying to keep an open mind. Another trip to plan and it will be over my birthday weekend so that's a nice added bonus. Maybe we'll stay for a little longer then and transfer to the Grand after....*fingers crossed*

I have a 3.9 GPA so far! Rocking the Masters degree LOL. That's the issue with DH we have 6 nights at the beach and 7 at WL CL...I am really pushing it with a week at Disney too so I need to tread lightly. I think WL CL is just what he needs to fall back in love with WDW. He adored everyone on our couple trip

Congrats on your GPA! My husband just completed his a few weeks ago Summa Cum Laude and we couldn't have been more proud. I know how tough it is because I've seen it first hand. Keep up the great work...it really does pay off in the end.

I'm down to 3 days and ready to go!!! I keep checking to see if I can get us a better FP ressie for the 7DMT. Right now we're between 6 and 7, but I fear that means we won't be able to find a 4th FP available after that late hour in the day.

3 more days happy dance!!!

~ Was reading on the Theme Park boards that some guests have been able to ride on the 7DMT...guess a sort of soft opening !! And the reviews are good!...Sounds like lots of attention was paid to detail..and while the ride is fast and fun...its not TOO fast... I am was very happy to read this... while I enjoy BTMRR I am not a fan of the drop in Splash Mountain..Cant wait!!

Hope that everyone is having a terrific Thursday...

Hi BlueSkies....
I'm glad to hear that the new 7DMT ride is not too crazy. Can't wait to ride it.
I'm not a big fan of the huge drop on Splash either. I also can't deal with the TOT drops. I always say I'm not going on but get talked into it every time. Just makes me feel like my heart is going to stop at any moment.

Have a great day everybody!!!!

 

[mommyrosa2]

After much deliberation this weekend, DH & I decided we won't be trying V&A's in October for our anniversary . Instead.... we decided to book a trip to Florida to spend Christmas with my siblings that live in New Smyrna Beach and since we fly into Orlando...

We took the V&A budgeted money and booked a 3 day stay at CSR for the beginning of the trip . Everyone is very excited...this will be our first visit in December!

I'm down to 3 days and ready to go!!! I keep checking to see if I can get us a better FP ressie for the 7DMT. Right now we're between 6 and 7, but I fear that means we won't be able to find a 4th FP available after that late hour in the day.

Hope you have a WONDERFUL trip!!!!