Accomodation advice invited...

[lonegungirl]

Hi. I just got a spur-of-the-moment cheap flight to Orlando for the weekend of 11/13-16. I was hoping to stay at the Swan/Dolphin, as I've stayed there before, and wanted quick access to the parks (for such a short trip, I thought I could do without a car) but they're all booked, as is the Beach/Yacht Club. All the codes I could find are currently expired for that time period, and the best I could come up with is a reservation at the Polynesian for $209/night with an AP discount.

Does that seem like a decent rate? Do any of the other moderate/value hotels have good transportation? I'm not so concerned with the niceities of the room, so much as I am with waiting around for the bus all day. When I stayed at the Swan last time, I think I had a rate of around $150 with a govenment discount, but that was in the summer. This being the value season, I'd think the prices would be cheaper, but then the Food and Wine Festival and the Art Festival are also on that weekend, so perhaps that boosts occupancy.

Any advice is appreciated!

 

[sphere99]

Not sure about swan/dolphin but I have those dates for the Contemporary for $131 a night.

 

[Shells9]

You'll see different opinions on the bus transportation from everyone, so take them for what they are worth. We have never really had a problem with the buses. We did not like it when we stayed at CR and had to share a bus, and the same thing with POFQ. It wasn't bad, we were just spoiled by AKL and not having to share.

If you really aren't concerned about the room, why not go for a moderate? It would save you a lot of money. I've never stayed at Poly so I am not familiar with the rates, but we get AKL savannah view for a lot less with an AP discount.

Either way, enjoy yourself!

 

[swilphil]

I believe that is Super Soap Weekend at MGM, and the Epcot area resorts have been booked for quite some time. You might be able to get in on a cancellation, but I'd book the Poly.

 

[Grumpy92]

Keep in mind the five day cancellation policy. This coming week I would try CRO several times. THe more you call the better your chances.

 

[CaipiraBob]

The ~$200 for GV Polynesian on the Monorail is a good rate.

If you haven't done it before and enjoy that sort of setting, I would recommend it.

For quick access to the park you might request a room midway between the main lodge and the T&T Center.

This will give you quick access via Monorail or bus to MK, Epcot and three deluxe resorts for dining options.

Really, a resort on the monorail with the buses as a secondary option is ideal.

I think it's a win-win scenario.

I hope you enjoy youself either way. Please drink several rounds in my name if this helps you decide.

 

[sjw4870]

The $209 rate at Poly is a great rate and Poly is a great hotel. I'd take that and you won't be disappointed!

 

[Scoootch]

I agree That is a great rate for the Poly but if your main concern is bus service and want to save a little, I'd try out FQ. It has the best bus service of all the moderates IMO and is so nice and compact ~ plus you can use the ammenities at bot FQ and POR as they are sister resorts. Bus service for FQ though, picks up first before heading over to POR and then out to the parks and also drops off at FQ first on the way back from the parks. The rooms have all recently been referbished too.

Anyway, the Poly rate is great but FQ would be a great idea too. Best of luck!

 

[PamNC]

That's a good rate for the Poly and if transportation is important to you, the Poly is an excellent choice. You may think you'll only be close to MK but that's not true. You can walk to the TTC and take the monorail to Epcot to enjoy the F&W Festival. The views are great, landscaping is beautiful, the monorail access can't be beat, beach and pool area are fantastic. The Poly is our favorite resort.

If you're looking for a cheaper rate at a deluxe I would say try for WL. However, I must say we stayed there once and weren't that impressed. The transportation left something to be desired. And, you won't have a monorail to get you to Epcot.

PamNC

 

[lonegungirl]

Thank you all for your info! I suspect I'll keep the reservation for now, and call a few times this week to see if anything cheaper comes up for the Contemporary, or something similar. Anyway it works out, it'll be a blast!

Oooo....getting excited!