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

[pas130]

I think that its very easy for a thread to head south when there is a lot of negative opinions..or disagreement.....and refurbishment can definitely cause that to happen..the moderator of that thread WDW Kook is one of the most gracious on these boards ..and is probably just trying to keep things from going that way..JMO.....

This!!!

And my DD(now9) has been using "GF shampoo" since our stay in 2011 Our YC suite had the same toiletries...and the foot scrub AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH This morning I spoke with my DH regarding doing 2 GF GV rooms over OKW...and he said I just need to change something I also mentioned my DD9 in my dream begged me to change, when I told her this she said "The snack room too" and when I said no she said then no way...ah, yes she is my DD

I agree. I don't post on the WL thread all the time, but I do read and post every once in awhile as the WL is one of our favorite resorts and WDWKOOK is one of the best, IMO. She is great with keeping the thread up to date as well as keeping things on topic. I honestly don't think she was being mean and/or meant any harm in asking people to refrain from talking about the refurbishment/pool closure. I think she just wants the FAQ to stay on topic with things about the resort overall and not get side tracked with discussions about the pool closure and posters arguing among themselves about it. With all of that said, this is just my opinion and I'm not looking to argue with anyone .

You know I feel exactly the same, WDWKOOK and K&a&c'smom are the best of the DIS IMHO. I am a little biased as they have become true friends, but it was through their graciousness on their threads I got to know they are amongst the nicest ladies around

Back to the Grand Groupies regularly scheduled program...

 

[mystery222184]

Are the Keurig machines still in the Main Building rooms? I don't seem to remember them from my last stay in the Sugar Loaf but that may just be because I used the Nespresso machine in the lounge the whole time

 

[grannyminnie]

Good afternoon, GF groupies...

I'm back from a brief visit at WDW (first at a DD hotel and finishing up at the WL). Even tho the WL was at 100%, it never looked busy, and we were able to easily have a couple of meals in Whispering Canyon (hubby loved the skillets) without ressies.
I have to say, those July 4th fireworks are spectacular!!! (this is my fireworks icon) We viewed them from the grass in front of Narcoosee's....I believe only those who had dining ressies there were allowed on the porch, but we just plopped down on a beach towel on the grass and had a prime viewing spot. I have always wanted to see them and was not disappointed! The fireworks were really my excuse for the trip....but we also went over to Cape Canaveral to the Space Center one day.

DH and I (I really should say non-DH, as he is not a fan ) visited the GF (lobby as well as the GF Cafe) and had a scrumptious meal at the cafe. Shrimp and grits...holy cow, what a dish!! I also visited the lobby on another day, listened to some music and walked around the grounds and had a snack at Gaspie's. And also visited in the SL lounge to get a look at the remodel. Ok by me...

I'll weigh in on the "my favorite GF toiletry"...mine is, hands down, the shampoo. If I want a GF fix, I open a bottle and have a sniff.

 

[mickeynut1]

WDWKOOK and K&a&c'smom are the best of the DIS IMHO. I am a little biased as they have become true friends, but it was through their graciousness on their threads I got to know they are amongst the nicest ladies around

Hi pas

I couldn't agree more as both are the best and both do an awesome job maintaining the FAQ's (not to mention both of them are super sweet and friendly ).

Good afternoon, GF groupies...

I'm back from a brief visit at WDW (first at a DD hotel and finishing up at the WL). Even tho the WL was at 100%, it never looked busy, and we were able to easily have a couple of meals in Whispering Canyon (hubby loved the skillets) without ressies.
I have to say, those July 4th fireworks are spectacular!!! (this is my fireworks icon) We viewed them from the grass in front of Narcoosee's....I believe only those who had dining ressies there were allowed on the porch, but we just plopped down on a beach towel on the grass and had a prime viewing spot. I have always wanted to see them and was not disappointed! The fireworks were really my excuse for the trip....but we also went over to Cape Canaveral to the Space Center one day.

DH and I (I really should say non-DH, as he is not a fan ) visited the GF (lobby as well as the GF Cafe) and had a scrumptious meal at the cafe. Shrimp and grits...holy cow, what a dish!! I also visited the lobby on another day, listened to some music and walked around the grounds and had a snack at Gaspie's. And also visited in the SL lounge to get a look at the remodel. Ok by me...

I'll weigh in on the "my favorite GF toiletry"...mine is, hands down, the shampoo. If I want a GF fix, I open a bottle and have a sniff.

Welcome back .

Glad you had a great trip .

 

[Ferrentinos]

Single Digit Dance!

Can't wait to enjoy all that GF and SL have to offer!

 

[MaggiesMomNJ]

I just looked over on that board and your right it's like a command (( sad )) it's nice to be able to talk about all the positives and all the possible not positives freely on any thread. I personally don't like the super complainers but a few questions here and there should be allowed. Very weird

It is weird...and it was written again. Sigh...I am just going there to read information.

 

[MaggiesMomNJ]

I agree. I don't post on the WL thread all the time, but I do read and post every once in awhile as the WL is one of our favorite resorts and WDWKOOK is one of the best, IMO. She is great with keeping the thread up to date as well as keeping things on topic. I honestly don't think she was being mean and/or meant any harm in asking people to refrain from talking about the refurbishment/pool closure. I think she just wants the FAQ to stay on topic with things about the resort overall and not get side tracked with discussions about the pool closure and posters arguing among themselves about it. With all of that said, this is just my opinion and I'm not looking to argue with anyone .



My favorite view is the beach pool/VGF/Poly (although I'm not sure just how much of the lagoon/Poly is visible with the villas there), but I'm sure it's still a nice view . The courtyard side is also nice, so you really can't go wrong with either one, IMO.

I also agree about how easy it is to access the lounge, even if your room isn't on the 4th floor .

I understand what you are saying..I haven't been on here very long but it did seem very bizarre to me, especially the all caps. I don't know him/her so perhaps nothing was meant by it.

 

[pas130]

Good afternoon, GF groupies...

I'm back from a brief visit at WDW (first at a DD hotel and finishing up at the WL). Even tho the WL was at 100%, it never looked busy, and we were able to easily have a couple of meals in Whispering Canyon (hubby loved the skillets) without ressies.
I have to say, those July 4th fireworks are spectacular!!! (this is my fireworks icon) We viewed them from the grass in front of Narcoosee's....I believe only those who had dining ressies there were allowed on the porch, but we just plopped down on a beach towel on the grass and had a prime viewing spot. I have always wanted to see them and was not disappointed! The fireworks were really my excuse for the trip....but we also went over to Cape Canaveral to the Space Center one day.

DH and I (I really should say non-DH, as he is not a fan ) visited the GF (lobby as well as the GF Cafe) and had a scrumptious meal at the cafe. Shrimp and grits...holy cow, what a dish!! I also visited the lobby on another day, listened to some music and walked around the grounds and had a snack at Gaspie's. And also visited in the SL lounge to get a look at the remodel. Ok by me...

I'll weigh in on the "my favorite GF toiletry"...mine is, hands down, the shampoo. If I want a GF fix, I open a bottle and have a sniff.

How lovely!!! Glad you had a Grand 4th

Hi pas

I couldn't agree more as both are the best and both do an awesome job maintaining the FAQ's (not to mention both of them are super sweet and friendly ).

Single Digit Dance!

Can't wait to enjoy all that GF and SL have to offer!

SWEET! You will have a GRAND time!!! Almost home!!!!

 

[BlueSkies]

Are the Keurig machines still in the Main Building rooms? I don't seem to remember them from my last stay in the Sugar Loaf but that may just be because I used the Nespresso machine in the lounge the whole time

Yes there are!

Good afternoon, GF groupies...

I'm back from a brief visit at WDW (first at a DD hotel and finishing up at the WL). Even tho the WL was at 100%, it never looked busy, and we were able to easily have a couple of meals in Whispering Canyon (hubby loved the skillets) without ressies.
I have to say, those July 4th fireworks are spectacular!!! (this is my fireworks icon) We viewed them from the grass in front of Narcoosee's....I believe only those who had dining ressies there were allowed on the porch, but we just plopped down on a beach towel on the grass and had a prime viewing spot. I have always wanted to see them and was not disappointed! The fireworks were really my excuse for the trip....but we also went over to Cape Canaveral to the Space Center one day.

DH and I (I really should say non-DH, as he is not a fan ) visited the GF (lobby as well as the GF Cafe) and had a scrumptious meal at the cafe. Shrimp and grits...holy cow, what a dish!! I also visited the lobby on another day, listened to some music and walked around the grounds and had a snack at Gaspie's. And also visited in the SL lounge to get a look at the remodel. Ok by me...

I'll weigh in on the "my favorite GF toiletry"...mine is, hands down, the shampoo. If I want a GF fix, I open a bottle and have a sniff.

Welcome home grannyminnie! We missed you around here! Sounds like another wonderful WDW visit..even with your non DH!! Glad that the SL lounge got your seal of approval.... I agree shrimp and grits..yummo!!

Seems we have the same toiletry fave..great minds and all...

How was your visit to Cape Caneveral...??

BTW..love your fireworks smilie!! lol...

Single Digit Dance!

Can't wait to enjoy all that GF and SL have to offer!

So excited for you!!

I love the H2O toiletries and have them at Marshall's. It is hit or miss though but that's always the first department I checkout

Thanks for the heads up! I have seen them there and at sister chain TJ Maxx sporadically too.... and for great prices!

My fav GF products are the Mint Foot Cream, so nice after being on your feet all day at the parks. And those chocolates,yum. I had a bag full to bring home .

This is my second fave... a close second though... As for the bag full of chocolates... My stash is getting low..think that someone in the family has been pilfering them...lol...

I'd love to join you on this thread. Have just decided to book GF for my 50th birthday trip next summer...... No kids, no husbands ...... Just me and my sister and cousin who also happen to be two of my best friends. Can't wait. My sister and I did an adults only trip in 2012- stayed at the beach club and my cousin joined my son and I for a few days in 2011 at CSR but this will be the first trip for all 3 of us together. Now just need the rates to come out for 2015...... Any idea when that will be?

WELCOME wannabee!! Can't think of a nicer way to spend a landmark birthday! Just some suggestions....You can order a specialty cake right from the GF bakery and have it delivered to any restaurant at the GF... also be sure to have your birthday noted on any dining ressies that you make... Have a Grand trip and Happy Birthday!!

The foot rub is definitely our favorite right now. But my most favorite was the green bath soap they stopped carrying few years ago, does anyone remember its name? It had bumps on one side and had a wonderful scent.

I loved that soap too...We just opened our last bar recently..I do think it is called sea salt bath bar... But I am not positive..

Hello there ahcupcake Always nice to see you..many thanks for the H2O links! Sorry that you don't have any trip planned for the near future... Sending good wishes that you will be back at your fave resort in 2015..

~ Thanks to everyone who answered my toiletries question..its fun to read about what everyone's personal favorites are!! So many wonderful choices!

HI mickeynut and pas..and all the rest of my fellow GF groupies!!! Hope that you all had a super Sunday..and a Grand long weekend... preppy GF gal who had to use some GF toiletries today after all of our talk about them here yesterday!

Ugghh..over on my smilies again...!!

 

[MaggiesMomNJ]

I can't wait to try the chocolates!

 

[mystery222184]

Yes there are!

Awesome Thanks! Gotta have my coffee!

 

[marlaine8]

We're staying at the GF in September. Can't wait! This is the first time we've used a Travel Agent. Does my TA have to call for room requests and to note my son's birthday on the reservation? Can I call IPO myself for those things? I've always booked our trips myself in the past and done everything myself.

 

[mickeynut1]

Single Digit Dance!

Can't wait to enjoy all that GF and SL have to offer!

I understand what you are saying..I haven't been on here very long but it did seem very bizarre to me, especially the all caps. I don't know him/her so perhaps nothing was meant by it.

I can understand that as we were all once new to the Dis and I, for one, have seen a lot of crazy posts/threads. With that said, I have gotten to know WDWKOOK over the years and I can say with certainty that the message was not posted in a mean way and was not directed at any one poster .

Your trip is coming up soon .

HI mickeynut and pas..and all the rest of my fellow GF groupies!!! Hope that you all had a super Sunday..and a Grand long weekend...

Hope you had a great holiday weekend as well .

I can't wait to try the chocolates!

You are in for a treat .

Gotta have my coffee!

I'm the same way....gotta have that morning pick me up to get going .

 

[mickeynut1]

We're staying at the GF in September. Can't wait! This is the first time we've used a Travel Agent. Does my TA have to call for room requests and to note my son's birthday on the reservation? Can I call IPO myself for those things? I've always booked our trips myself in the past and done everything myself.

That's a good question about IPO. Normally your TA has to call and add any requests/special occasions, but I don't know if it works the same with IPO as I always book myself through Disney. I would think if you have your reservation number that you could email IPO, but hopefully someone with experience booking CL through a TA will be able to give a definite answer .

 

[Sue M]

Good afternoon, GF groupies...

I'm back from a brief visit at WDW (first at a DD hotel and finishing up at the WL). Even tho the WL was at 100%, it never looked busy, and we were able to easily have a couple of meals in Whispering Canyon (hubby loved the skillets) without ressies.
I have to say, those July 4th fireworks are spectacular!!! (this is my fireworks icon) We viewed them from the grass in front of Narcoosee's....I believe only those who had dining ressies there were allowed on the porch, but we just plopped down on a beach towel on the grass and had a prime viewing spot. I have always wanted to see them and was not disappointed! The fireworks were really my excuse for the trip....but we also went over to Cape Canaveral to the Space Center one day.

DH and I (I really should say non-DH, as he is not a fan ) visited the GF (lobby as well as the GF Cafe) and had a scrumptious meal at the cafe. Shrimp and grits...holy cow, what a dish!! I also visited the lobby on another day, listened to some music and walked around the grounds and had a snack at Gaspie's. And also visited in the SL lounge to get a look at the remodel. Ok by me...

I'll weigh in on the "my favorite GF toiletry"...mine is, hands down, the shampoo. If I want a GF fix, I open a bottle and have a sniff.

Must try this shrimp & grits, is it on breakfast or lunch menu?

Single Digit Dance!

Can't wait to enjoy all that GF and SL have to offer!

have a magical trip and post pics of new SL lounge & offerings lol.

 

[yce22princess]

Another coffee question....the main building has Keurigs....the others have??? Is it the Cuisinart ones? I know it was asked already, and I apologize for asking again, but I can't seem to find it. Thank you!!!

 

[grannyminnie]

Morning....lovely day here......just wish I was still in WDW!

Blue, we really enjoyed visiting the Cape. The new Atlantis exhibit leaves one in awe! The size of that shuttle... Lots of interesting stuff for those interested in space, as my hubby is.

Mickeynut...right there with ya on the "need" for that morning coffee!!

Hi, ahcupcake...always good to see you posting here! I'm also looking for your next vacation ticker to appear..

I forget who asked but the shrimp and grits were on the dinner menu. They would be waaaay too rich for a breakfast entree in my opinion!!

 

[Grace&Carolinesmom]

As for moisture wicking clothes, I think it's a personal preference but we do like Adidas, Nike and Tek Gear which is a Kohl's brand (we've gotten some great deals at Kohl's on all the above ). I find because we are more on the go during the day and it is so hot, we like the lighter moisture wicking fabric. At night, we tend to slow it down so regular shorts and a lighter top or a sundress with flip flops works just fine.

Thanks so much for the info I am considering getting a few items and will definitely go check out the Kohl's website. Hate going to the store if at all possible....too many distrations to catch the eye of my wallet....

I'd love to join you on this thread. Have just decided to book GF for my 50th birthday trip next summer...... No kids, no husbands ...... Just me and my sister and cousin who also happen to be two of my best friends. Can't wait. My sister and I did an adults only trip in 2012- stayed at the beach club and my cousin joined my son and I for a few days in 2011 at CSR but this will be the first trip for all 3 of us together. Now just need the rates to come out for 2015...... Any idea when that will be?

Just wanted to say I am so jealous! It is a dream of mine to someday take an adults only trip to WDW. Being all girls makes it even sweeter Even DH who, in general, is a bit of a bah humbug until he actually gets on vacation (he hates the whole planning part which is why I do ALL of it and ask him as little as possible during that process) has dreams of going on a trip to WDW during F&W with just the two of us staying in the Epcot area.


Blue I TOTALLY plan to hoard as much Mint Foot Creme as possible for my stash at home. I will even go as far as adding notes to the Mousekeeping daily tip envelopes saying I would love extras. No shame in that....right??? I have a plastic "stash" bin in my bathroom for hotel toiletries. When I need to feel "on vacation", I pull out the bin and scan the items to get just the right memory scent. AAhhhhh...... My favorite of all time was the Lather products from Loews in the Bamboo Creme scent. The scent is just intoxicating for me. I think housekeeping at PBH one year caught on to my obsession and left me tons on our last few days. Good thing I found an extra plastic bag in the room to bring it home because I was NOT leaving those goodies behind


Grannyminnie I love shrimp and grits but usually prefer the dish to have the shrimp on the spicy side. Did the shrimp have any KICK or was the dish just kinda rich??


I am also hoping to hear some first hand reports of the boat/bus transportation schedules during the decreased monorail hours. If nothing concrete is related, I will ask when we check in on the 23rd.

 

[pas130]

We're staying at the GF in September. Can't wait! This is the first time we've used a Travel Agent. Does my TA have to call for room requests and to note my son's birthday on the reservation? Can I call IPO myself for those things? I've always booked our trips myself in the past and done everything myself.

I totally missed this post, sorry. Definitely the IPO can and will do all this It was the one time I didn't bug my TA I would definitely recommend sending the IPO an email over having your TA call the main reservations center. The GF did a few sweet things for my birthday it was really nice (we were in Sugarloaf).

 

[abk96]

Good morning everyone! I hope you all enjoyed the weekend.

Good afternoon, GF groupies...

I'm back from a brief visit at WDW (first at a DD hotel and finishing up at the WL). Even tho the WL was at 100%, it never looked busy, and we were able to easily have a couple of meals in Whispering Canyon (hubby loved the skillets) without ressies.
I have to say, those July 4th fireworks are spectacular!!! (this is my fireworks icon) We viewed them from the grass in front of Narcoosee's....I believe only those who had dining ressies there were allowed on the porch, but we just plopped down on a beach towel on the grass and had a prime viewing spot. I have always wanted to see them and was not disappointed! The fireworks were really my excuse for the trip....but we also went over to Cape Canaveral to the Space Center one day.

DH and I (I really should say non-DH, as he is not a fan ) visited the GF (lobby as well as the GF Cafe) and had a scrumptious meal at the cafe. Shrimp and grits...holy cow, what a dish!! I also visited the lobby on another day, listened to some music and walked around the grounds and had a snack at Gaspie's. And also visited in the SL lounge to get a look at the remodel. Ok by me...

I'll weigh in on the "my favorite GF toiletry"...mine is, hands down, the shampoo. If I want a GF fix, I open a bottle and have a sniff.

Sounds like a great way to enjoy the 4th! Shrimp and grits sound really yummy. And I'm glad you got to see the lounge and liked it. I can't wait to see it in person soon too.

Single Digit Dance!

Can't wait to enjoy all that GF and SL have to offer!