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

[disney meema]

Thanks Gretchenohar for your ideas on hometown gifts to bring CM. You brought some nice bills souvenirs and sponge candy yum and I'm sure it was so appreciated ... I'll have to think of some unique themed items from Utah and California to bring along : )
Off topic but I was born in north tonawanda NY so it jumped out at me when you mentioned sponge candy as I just had ordered in the last few months sponge candy and orange chocolate from platters in NY for my Mom. Even though we moved to California when I was 3 my Mom always had platters chocolate sent to us by family in NY. I was happy to see it online to order. Although you might not even live near north tonawanda and if so I'm rambling on here lol : )

 

[gretchenohar@hotmail]

I live very near NT, Meema! Have lots of family still in Tonawanda & NT - we live in Lockport. Any time you need a fix, let me know & I'll try to send you some sponge candy!

 

[Grace&Carolinesmom]

LOL - yes, it is easier. It was very nice to see the kids, now I need to get back to Chicago for a visit with my oldest.


A month and a week, yay! I enjoyed reading your plans, I hope the monorail shut down won't mess up your plans too much.

My vote would be to do the taxi for your Epcot mornings. It's only about $20 or so, and I think the peace of mind will be worth it. We do that anyway, grab a cab a couple times per trip just to save time.

Oh...I LOVE visiting Chicago in the summer. Even though it is hot with all the concrete, there seems to always be a nice breeze because of the lake....and it is the windy city after all I usually go on Amtrak out of Milwaukee for a leisurely ride into Union Station so I can chit chat with my girlfriends on the way. Nothing like sitting outside having a cool drink and a bite to eat on navy pier or any of the quaint side streets.

We may very well end up in a taxi on Epcot mornings. We always take a taxi when eating dinner at Cape May(or any resort that is not a boat ride or monorail ride from our hotel) and will again this trip. I do not like taking a bus when we just showered and are dressed a little nicer for dinner. A taxi usually involves quicker transport and less perspiration in clean clothes

This question is very much OT but you GF folk are all so very lovely and have answers for everything: where is the board to post/talk about DTD? I can't find one...

I want to find out more about the location of the new Marketplace Co-op

Is this the thread you were looking for ? http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=3287759



Regarding the cabana tipping confusion....I would just ask at the marina rental where you check in for your cabana....assuming this is still the procedure for claiming your cabana rental ressie. That would forgo the awkward situation if tipping is not allowed.

 

[grannyminnie]

We've always tipped mousekeeping too ... . Now I'm really confused too? But the envelope is always gone along with the tip when left out LOL
I was reading on here or somewhere about some CL guests bringing a treat from their home state for the CM at CL. I've never done this but love to here if anyone has done this? What did you bring them? I'm guessing bit would be a speciality item like a special chocolate ect. from your state? Or homemade something?

Oh, well we always tip them too...every day, twice: in the morning, and at turndown. We don't leave the money in an envelope but do always write a nice note of thanks and include any requests we have.

 

[Three cats]

Can anyone tell me what type of coffee maker is in the room? Is it the standard small 4 cup pot or something different? Thanks

 

[dansdad]

Can anyone tell me what type of coffee maker is in the room? Is it the standard small 4 cup pot or something different? Thanks

Depends on which room you are talking about, in the Villas or in the regular rooms?

Regular rooms - Cuisinart 2 cup maker that uses the pods. Check out post #4 for pictures

Villas - Full Size Coffee Maker

 

[Three cats]

Depends on which room you are talking about, in the Villas or in the regular rooms?

Regular rooms - Cuisinart 2 cup maker that uses the pods. Check out post #4 for pictures

Villas - Full Size Coffee Maker

Thank you! I'll go check it out.

 

[BlueGiraffe]

Is this the thread you were looking for ? http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=3287759

Thanks. That link's sending me to another GF post, though, but might just be my iPad. Will check on the laptop later.

But I was wondering if there was a general place for DTD threads and posts? Like this GF one is in the Resorts section.

 

[trishadono]

I have learned that if I tip Mousekeeping on the first day (and the following as well) that I get better service.

At poly this month I got a towel animal the first time. Also early service each day.

At VGF in January I swear she left us 2/3 of each shampoo etc at each spot. With 3 bathrooms there was so many I couldn't bring them all home because the weight of the suitcases were then too heavy

At gf in November '13 she also left extra shampoos and lots of coffee supplies and extra towels.

At CBR in August '13 towel animal 1st time and lots of supplies and towels.

I did however keep forgetting to leave a tip at night for towel and trash service so one night I tracked her down in the hall and tipped and thanked her in person. The smile on her face was worth the trip.

 

[abk96]

I did however keep forgetting to leave a tip at night for towel and trash service so one night I tracked her down in the hall and tipped and thanked her in person. The smile on her face was worth the trip.

I love hearing about things like that.

 

[scmommy718]

Hi everyone!! Currently my family is scheduled to stay at WL Dec. 19-24, but we are thinking of switching to GF or Poly (but most likely not poly bc of construction). Are the Christmas decorations great at GF? I've heard such awesome things about both resorts, but I am thinking we may want the monorail. Any input would be greatly apprectiated.

 

[k&a&c'smom]

Though the mousekeepers are not in a tipped position (meaning they are expected to earn extra in tips, therefore make less than minimum per hour), they are allowed to accept them. As someone else posted, my guess is the cabana CMs are categorized more like the CL CMs in that regard.

Oh...I LOVE visiting Chicago in the summer. Even though it is hot with all the concrete, there seems to always be a nice breeze because of the lake....and it is the windy city after all I usually go on Amtrak out of Milwaukee for a leisurely ride into Union Station so I can chit chat with my girlfriends on the way. Nothing like sitting outside having a cool drink and a bite to eat on navy pier or any of the quaint side streets.

We may very well end up in a taxi on Epcot mornings. We always take a taxi when eating dinner at Cape May(or any resort that is not a boat ride or monorail ride from our hotel) and will again this trip. I do not like taking a bus when we just showered and are dressed a little nicer for dinner. A taxi usually involves quicker transport and less perspiration in clean clothes



Is this the thread you were looking for ? http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=3287759



Regarding the cabana tipping confusion....I would just ask at the marina rental where you check in for your cabana....assuming this is still the procedure for claiming your cabana rental ressie. That would forgo the awkward situation if tipping is not allowed.

Great idea asking at the marina rental shack. Thanks for the thread link, is DTD still called DTD? Or is it now officially Disney Springs? (or whatever the new name is supposed to be, lol) So much going on in the World, I can't keep up any more.

Chicago is good for a summer trip, much less humid than our area. Interesting about taking the train, that must be a nice alternative to driving. DD said many of her co-workers go from DC to NYC for a day trip on the train. BTW - DS has visited Milwaukee a number of times for school trips, and he enjoys it very much. He says the people there remind him of his home state, so friendly.

I agree about the travel to dinner, nice clothing and sweating.

Thanks. That link's sending me to another GF post, though, but might just be my iPad. Will check on the laptop later.

But I was wondering if there was a general place for DTD threads and posts? Like this GF one is in the Resorts section.

I couldn't find a forum specifically for DTD, I'll keep looking.

Hi everyone!! Currently my family is scheduled to stay at WL Dec. 19-24, but we are thinking of switching to GF or Poly (but most likely not poly bc of construction). Are the Christmas decorations great at GF? I've heard such awesome things about both resorts, but I am thinking we may want the monorail. Any input would be greatly apprectiated.

Welcome! The Christmas decorations at the GF are beautiful, and the whole holiday atmosphere is incredible. Love the Grand at Christmas, so festive. One thing to keep in mind, there are many, many visitors to the Grand during the holidays, everyone loves to visit the gingerbread house and have afternoon tea, etc. Just a tip, to help in the decision making process - not trying to talk you out of my favorite resort!

WL has very nice decorations, too, and it can be difficult to get a reservation there during the holiday months. I've tried and failed more than once!

 

[k&a&c'smom]

BlueGiraffe - I did a Disboards AND google search for DTD - both came up with multiple boards with threads about it. Looks like you will have to search for specific topics, sorry. Evidently, not enough interest to have a whole forum of its own, or even a general FAQ thread.

Here's an info page on the DIS. HTH!

 

[TinkerBellLiz]

Hello everyone!

I've just recently found this site and it is FULL of so much wonderful information. Thanks to all for the effort put in here!

We have a 10 day Grand Floridian visit planned for our 30th Anniversary in October. The last detail we need to do is request a room type. We currently have reserved the Concierge Deluxe King, main building and there are apparently 2 types of these rooms.

Do any of ya'll have an idea of where the turret rooms are located and what floor they are on? Are these larger than the other rooms? What are your opinions on both types and what would your preference be?

Thanks for any information and help!

Liz

 

[k&a&c'smom]

Hello everyone!

I've just recently found this site and it is FULL of so much wonderful information. Thanks to all for the effort put in here!

We have a 10 day Grand Floridian visit planned for our 30th Anniversary in October. The last detail we need to do is request a room type. We currently have reserved the Concierge Deluxe King, main building and there are apparently 2 types of these rooms.

Do any of ya'll have an idea of where the turret rooms are located and what floor they are on? Are these larger than the other rooms? What are your opinions on both types and what would your preference be?

Thanks for any information and help!

Liz

Welcome to the DIS and the GF FAQ! Glad you found us.

The deluxe king rooms do have 2 types. Here is the description we have on page 1:

There are two room types within the Main Building/Deluxe/King category. These include the 6 turret rooms located in the towers of the main building, and the second floor (Clarendon Level) honeymoon rooms. The second floor honeymoon rooms are approximately the same size as the standard rooms, have a Jacuzzi tub and a balcony with views of the MK, but no wet bar or walk-in closet. Turret rooms are larger than the Jacuzzi rooms, but do not have the Jacuzzi tub or private balcony. Instead, you'll find a spectacular view with windows all the way around the suite, walk in closet and a garden tub.

Here is a link to a post with photos of the various deluxe rooms. There is only the turret king deluxe, I think - the other photos are of the deluxe queen.

As stated, the rectangular rooms are all on the 2nd floor; the turret rooms are located on the 3rd, 4th and 5th floors, in the corners of the Beach Pool end of the Main Bldg. Three are over the M. Mouse Mercantile shop area, the other three over the Summer Lace (1st floor)/Commander Porter's (2nd floor) area.

We prefer the turret rooms, as we like the layout and the extra closet space, not to mention the location near the lobby atrium. Many people prefer the 2nd floor rectangular rooms, as they have a Jacuzzi tub and balcony over Gasparilla's, with a view of the castle. Personal preference, really, both rooms have their pros!

HTH! If you have more questions, just ask.

 

[stone0990]

Hi!!

I have just booked our very first stay at GF for the end of September...SO EXCITED!!!

I booked Standard Room--RPC! I would LOVE to have some type of water view...and maybe a smidge of a theme park view?? Is this even possible? But defininitely would love a water view for sure....Seven Seas Lagoon or Beach Pool!! What should I specifically request as far as location for that?

We aren't as concerned with close proximity to lounge area!

Also, will the rooms be finished by the end of September? (We arrive on September 23)

TIA!! (I still can't believe we are actually staying at the Grand!!!!!)

 

[BlueSkies]

Hello fellow GF fans! Things have been kind of hectic around here...and have interfered with my DIS time...

Really just skimmed...but wanted to say H!III

Thanks. That link's sending me to another GF post, though, but might just be my iPad. Will check on the laptop later.

But I was wondering if there was a general place for DTD threads and posts? Like this GF one is in the Resorts section.

I see that k&a&c's mom is on the lookout for you! We went to DTD this past trip...bus service going was great...didnt wait long at all..dont ask about the return though...lol.....Loved the new Co-Op store... It is attached to the Trend D store...so not hard to find... found lots lof stuff that we "needed"...I bet you will too!!

Hello everyone!

I've just recently found this site and it is FULL of so much wonderful information. Thanks to all for the effort put in here!

We have a 10 day Grand Floridian visit planned for our 30th Anniversary in October. The last detail we need to do is request a room type. We currently have reserved the Concierge Deluxe King, main building and there are apparently 2 types of these rooms.

Do any of ya'll have an idea of where the turret rooms are located and what floor they are on? Are these larger than the other rooms? What are your opinions on both types and what would your preference be?

Thanks for any information and help!

Liz

WELCOME Liz! What a wonderful way to spend your 30th anniversary! You are right there are two types of deluxe king rooms...the turret rooms seem to be most peoples favorite...certainly ours... They are located right off the atrium on the third forth and fifth floors of the main building...and have views of either the courtyard..or the front of the main building...I would say a monorail view! Be aware though..that these rooms have no balconies....I am sure others who have stayed in them..and I think that there a several regular posters here who have will be able to chime in and add more info!

The other deluxe king rooms are located on the second floor..right over Gasparilla's..and do have a balcony..a MK view...but are quite a bit away from the lounge...

scmommy The GF is absolutely beautiful in all of its Christmas finery! Between the magnificent tree..and the life size gingerbread house....which BTW smells sooooo good...But..the lobby is far more crowded at this time of year than any other...still...very very nice!

MickeyNut Hope that you are feeling better!

k&a&c'smom Good to see you back... You are always missed when you are not around!!

grannnieminnie Have a fab weekend!! Forgive me for not getting on with my mini TR..especially the food stuff..soon..I promise....I know its always all about the food!!

ahcupcake, wishes, MommyGina,pas,abk,Candy, Trisha..and all the rest of my fellow GF fans...

I am still doing the floridian frown....and seriously having lounge withdrawl...lol...

~ Just some quick additions to my mini..drawn out TR..lol...I did notice that the GF Society Orchestra is looking very good in their new uniforms...medium blue vests..and a rusty brown color slacks...kind of like those Gaspies colors... Hope that we will be seeing more of these colors!! Especially the blue..lol.. and Basin seems to have added quite a few new soaps...Gotta love new soaps!

Hope that everyone is having a wonderful Wednesday....

 

[TinkerBellLiz]

Welcome to the DIS and the GF FAQ! Glad you found us.

The deluxe king rooms do have 2 types. Here is the description we have on page 1:

There are two room types within the Main Building/Deluxe/King category. These include the 6 turret rooms located in the towers of the main building, and the second floor (Clarendon Level) honeymoon rooms. The second floor honeymoon rooms are approximately the same size as the standard rooms, have a Jacuzzi tub and a balcony with views of the MK, but no wet bar or walk-in closet. Turret rooms are larger than the Jacuzzi rooms, but do not have the Jacuzzi tub or private balcony. Instead, you'll find a spectacular view with windows all the way around the suite, walk in closet and a garden tub.

There is only the turret king deluxe, I think - the other photos are of the deluxe queen.

As stated, the rectangular rooms are all on the 2nd floor; the turret rooms are located on the 3rd, 4th and 5th floors, in the corners of the Beach Pool end of the Main Bldg. Three are over the M. Mouse Mercantile shop area, the other three over the Summer Lace (1st floor)/Commander Porter's (2nd floor) area.

We prefer the turret rooms, as we like the layout and the extra closet space, not to mention the location near the lobby atrium. Many people prefer the 2nd floor rectangular rooms, as they have a Jacuzzi tub and balcony over Gasparilla's, with a view of the castle. Personal preference, really, both rooms have their pros!

HTH! If you have more questions, just ask.

Thank you so much for the reply and thank you for the link. That is actually where I found out there was more than 1 room type!

Just a couple more questions although I think I've made up my mind which I like!

You said the rectangular rooms are on the 2nd floor. I was under the impression after reading the RPC section all club level rooms were on the 3rd, 4th or 5th floors. Are these type the exception since they are on the 2nd floor and also have club access?

When we stayed at GF Sugarloaf last year we inquired about the "Deluxe King Rooms" and we were told they were larger and therefore didn't have MK views: the trade off for having more room. Going on this conversation I thought all the rooms were the same. Based on what you are saying, the rectangular rooms ALL have MK view OR a Turret with more room and no MK view. I guess I'm just easily confused!

I tend to do a lot of shopping so I think I'll request the Turret with more room. Both types seem awesome so I'm sure I won't be disappointed regardless!

Again thank you for the help.

Liz

 

[k&a&c'smom]

Hi!!

I have just booked our very first stay at GF for the end of September...SO EXCITED!!!

I booked Standard Room--RPC! I would LOVE to have some type of water view...and maybe a smidge of a theme park view?? Is this even possible? But defininitely would love a water view for sure....Seven Seas Lagoon or Beach Pool!! What should I specifically request as far as location for that?

We aren't as concerned with close proximity to lounge area!

Also, will the rooms be finished by the end of September? (We arrive on September 23)

TIA!! (I still can't believe we are actually staying at the Grand!!!!!)

Welcome! How exciting you've booked your first GF stay - and in RPC, no less!

The room renovations should be completed by your trip, they start next month and most buildings seem to be taking about a month each.

You have a good chance of getting a water view; pretty much zero chance of the "smidge of a theme park view"! Most of the std. RPC rooms overlook the courtyard pool, with some of the std. rooms over the Beach Pool. The ones over the Beach Pool will have a view of the VGF, as well as some of the lagoon - not sure if you can still see any of the Poly, now that the VGF has been built.

You can add a request for which location you prefer. There are some photos on the first page, I know I've posted courtyard pool views and I think there are a few with the Beach Pool side. HTH!

Hello fellow GF fans! Things have been kind of hectic around here...and have interfered with my DIS time...

Really just skimmed...but wanted to say H!III




I see that k&a&c's mom is on the lookout for you! We went to DTD this past trip...bus service going was great...didnt wait long at all..dont ask about the return though...lol.....Loved the new Co-Op store... It is attached to the Trend D store...so not hard to find... found lots lof stuff that we "needed"...I bet you will too!!



WELCOME Liz! What a wonderful way to spend your 30th anniversary! You are right there are two types of deluxe king rooms...the turret rooms seem to be most peoples favorite...certainly ours... They are located right off the atrium on the third forth and fifth floors of the main building...and have views of either the courtyard..or the front of the main building...I would say a monorail view! Be aware though..that these rooms have no balconies....I am sure others who have stayed in them..and I think that there a several regular posters here who have will be able to chime in and add more info!

The other deluxe king rooms are located on the second floor..right over Gasparilla's..and do have a balcony..a MK view...but are quite a bit away from the lounge...

scmommy The GF is absolutely beautiful in all of its Christmas finery! Between the magnificent tree..and the life size gingerbread house....which BTW smells sooooo good...But..the lobby is far more crowded at this time of year than any other...still...very very nice!

MickeyNut Hope that you are feeling better!

k&a&c'smom Good to see you back... You are always missed when you are not around!!

....
I am still doing the floridian frown....and seriously having lounge withdrawl...lol...

~ Just some quick additions to my mini..drawn out TR..lol...I did notice that the GF Society Orchestra is looking very good in their new uniforms...medium blue vests..and a rusty brown color slacks...kind of like those Gaspies colors... Hope that we will be seeing more of these colors!! Especially the blue..lol.. and Basin seems to have added quite a few new soaps...Gotta love new soaps!

Hope that everyone is having a wonderful Wednesday....

Glad to see you, too, thanks.

Thank you for posting more details on your trip. The new uniforms for the GFSO sound very nice!

Thank you so much for the reply and thank you for the link. That is actually where I found out there was more than 1 room type!

Just a couple more questions although I think I've made up my mind which I like!

You said the rectangular rooms are on the 2nd floor. I was under the impression after reading the RPC section all club level rooms were on the 3rd, 4th or 5th floors. Are these type the exception since they are on the 2nd floor and also have club access?

When we stayed at GF Sugarloaf last year we inquired about the "Deluxe King Rooms" and we were told they were larger and therefore didn't have MK views: the trade off for having more room. Going on this conversation I thought all the rooms were the same. Based on what you are saying, the rectangular rooms ALL have MK view OR a Turret with more room and no MK view. I guess I'm just easily confused!

I tend to do a lot of shopping so I think I'll request the Turret with more room. Both types seem awesome so I'm sure I won't be disappointed regardless!

Again thank you for the help.

Liz

Let me see if I can clear up some of the confusion. Yes, the turret king deluxe are larger, some estimates have them at over 700 sq. feet! They have wrap around atrium windows, but no balcony. The king deluxe rooms on the 2nd floor, on the other hand, are nearer the 440 sq. footage of the regular rooms.

The rectangular king deluxe rooms are all on the second floor, the so called "honeymoon suites" (also known as the Clarendon Level) because this area is secluded. The only way to access it from the Main Lobby is to take the gold elevator up to the 3rd floor (keyed access), walk down the back hallway to the pool elevator and go down to the 2nd floor. You can also access these rooms from outside, near Gasparilla's, by using this same elevator (it goes all the way down to ground level), which is helpful for heading to the pools. No one can access these rooms from anywhere on the 2nd floor of the Main Bldg., btw.

If you still have questions, we'll try to answer. Both types of rooms are very nice. ETA: there are 3 of the turret king deluxe rooms that do have a view of the castle; these rooms are over Summer Lace/Commander Porter's and have a side view of the courtyard pool and of the Beach Pool. As BlueSkies posted, the other 3 overlook the monorail and Beach Pool.

 

[TinkerBellLiz]

Thank you all for the expert help. Request is made! I will poke them again around the 2 week mark.

Thank you also for the heads up on the 2nd floor room locations and how to access them! I was having a really hard time getting that mental picture.

While we always say we will try other resorts, we always end up back at the GF and really excited about our first RPC stay! Back to counting the days until...

Liz