ALOHA! The Poly FAQ: Fall 2010 Edition

[Dotsie]

I received a pin code for 35% off a deluxe resort so we're going to book the Poly again!! We are so excited - we're thinking of going May 17-27th. We stayed in Tuvalu this past April so I think we're going to do that again.
It's so exciting reading about everyone that is at the Poly now or about to go... Have fun, wish I was with you

 

[kimmar067]

...besides Niue, are there any other buildings that don't have an elevator?

 

[pumpkinfish]

Well just paid off our room for our upcoming trip Less than 3 weeks until we check in for our Christmas get away!

 

[Grace&Carolinesmom]

...besides Niue, are there any other buildings that don't have an elevator?

No. This is the only building with no elevator and the only longhouse with only 2 floors. HOWEVER,,,,you can use the elevator in Roratonga to go to the second floor and walkover the second floor bridge/deck that connects the 2 buildings.

 

[rcsilverspring]

I received a pin code for 35% off a deluxe resort so we're going to book the Poly again!! We are so excited - we're thinking of going May 17-27th. We stayed in Tuvalu this past April so I think we're going to do that again.
It's so exciting reading about everyone that is at the Poly now or about to go... Have fun, wish I was with you

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Yay! Us, TOO!!! We're going May 19-25. No longhouse request yet, just a balcony. Maybe closer to May. It still hasn't sunk it that we're finally going again. This year"s trip was postponed due to our DD's surgery, but next year's should be even better--she will be feeling a LOT better and can enjoy herself more PLUS, we got our 35% discount!!! Made ADR's the day I booked--got LeCellier AND Ohana.
My ticker says 169d,20h,30m,30sec!!!
Sending pixie dust for happy planning--it IS all part of the magic.

 

[kimmar067]

No. This is the only building with no elevator and the only longhouse with only 2 floors. HOWEVER,,,,you can use the elevator in Roratonga to go to the second floor and walkover the second floor bridge/deck that connects the 2 buildings.

...thanks. If you're not looking necessarily for a 'Lagoon View' room, what building would be the best location as far as volcano pool/monorail/Great Ceremonial House/etc....?

 

[Alli76]

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Yay! Us, TOO!!! We're going May 19-25. No longhouse request yet, just a balcony. Maybe closer to May. It still hasn't sunk it that we're finally going again. This year"s trip was postponed due to our DD's surgery, but next year's should be even better--she will be feeling a LOT better and can enjoy herself more PLUS, we got our 35% discount!!! Made ADR's the day I booked--got LeCellier AND Ohana.
My ticker says 169d,20h,30m,30sec!!!
Sending pixie dust for happy planning--it IS all part of the magic.

So jealous of you all with the room discounts for May. I have a room for May 7th-13th but really hoping for a little discount magic too!

 

[bwolfe]

We'll be at the Poly in June!! It'll be our first stay at the resort. We've done GF and WL bu the kids insisted that we stay at the Poly this time. It looks beautiful...June needs to get here soon!!

 

[sandym718]

I received a pin code for 35% off a deluxe resort so we're going to book the Poly again!! We are so excited - we're thinking of going May 17-27th. We stayed in Tuvalu this past April so I think we're going to do that again.
It's so exciting reading about everyone that is at the Poly now or about to go... Have fun, wish I was with you

Gosh, I really need one of these pins!! So frustrating. I'm grateful for the 25% GP discount, but 35% would be nicer, LOL!

 

[SnowWhite1]

We got back November 20th from an 8 day stay at the Polynesian - our first visit to Disney World AND to the Poly. I have to say that we totally loved it! Maybe we don't get out much, but we thought it was really fabulous. The lobby area is so lovely and the atmosphere is great. It truly felt like a getaway, especially with us being from Northern Minnesota!

We actually went for the Theme Park View and got 3rd floor Tahiti (room 3036) which was absolutely perfect. The room was nice and spacious and the bathroom with double sinks was lovely for us and the two kids. It was so nice having the balcony and the view of the castle, space mountain and the lake was spectacular. It was heaven to be able to see the fireworks every evening when we happened to be in from the comfort of our room.

I didn't notice any wear and tear..only in the elevator, but that didn't bother me. The room was in good shape. One light in the bathroom got dim towards the end of our stay, but it was fixed right away without our even mentioning it to anyone.

We only missed out on having the room straightened one day and that was because we were back early to rest. We still got fresh towels. WE even got towel animals two of the days which thrilled my munchkins.

Pool was fun. The zero entry was perfect from my 4 year old. The volcano slide was cool but a bit wild for kids age 4 & 6. They each did it once and then were done. Loved the tasty drinks from the bar AND the Dole Whips. Mmmmm.

We ate at 'Ohana twice which was very fun. The best was our first night with an early reservation. Kids loved dancing around and doing the activities, my husband and I loved eating all the food! We went again our last night and it was a later reservation so we were all kind of tired. Service was a bit slower so not quite as good, but mainly I think we were tired. We also did breakfast there with Lilo, Stich, Mickey & Pluto and that was fabulous. Kids loved it and the food was yummy.

Captain Cooks definitely needs to be bigger. We ran in to pick up breakfast one morning, and it was a total zoo in there. It was fine for picking up snacks in between times, but wow - when there's people in there it is nuts!

We also liked the nice sandy beach. We spent a couple hours there one afternoon so the kids could dig in the sand, and they really enjoyed that. We were at the section in front of our room and it was quiet. So relaxing to sit on the lawn chair and look out at the ferries and the castle. Have I mentioned how I LOVED that view?

I know some people complain about Tahiti being far from the GCH, but I really liked that it was so close to the TTC. That was a bonanza. I didn't mind the ferry tooting either....it was a nice sound.

So, thumbs up to The Polynesian for me! I wish I were still there!!! And to all of you heading that way soon - have a brilliant time. I'm sure you will love it!!!

Tricia

 

[Grace&Carolinesmom]

...thanks. If you're not looking necessarily for a 'Lagoon View' room, what building would be the best location as far as volcano pool/monorail/Great Ceremonial House/etc....?

That is a really subjective question. The Poly has such nice garden view rooms and each has its on benefits and qualities. I don't think there is a really "bad" view...just different. Despite that the resort is in separate longhouses, it is not very spreadout. Walks are relative to what you will use most often. Also, the landscaping is so lush and well themed that the walks are really enjoyable. IMO, the longest walk is from Aotearoa to the TTC but we didn't do that one every day so it really is no biggie. Close walk--less than 2 minutes from room. Average--3-4 minutes from room. Longer--5-7 minutes from room.

Aotearoa--One side has a view of the monorail and beautiful tropical foliage. One side has garden foliage, partial lagoon, and full lagoon/theme park views. Close to Luau Cove and downwind of GCH so you get to hear the wonderful luau music and smell the the wood burning from Ohanas when on the balcony. It is silent when the door is closed. We stayed here last trip and it was great. I loved hearing the music and people watching as folks walked to the luau. Even had a peek-a-boo view of the castle for garden price A longer walk to the TTC but quick to the GCH and an average walk to the pool.

Fiji--One side has marina views the other garden and partial beach/lagoon views. Average walk to pool and close to GCH. Longer walk to TTC.

Tuvalu--One side is TPV and the other side is garden views--probably the least desirable garden view as it is looking at the end of Fiji. Same walks as Fiji.

Roratonga--One side is monorail and tropical foliage views the other has garden/quiet pool views. Right next to the GCH. Close to the pool and an average walk to the TTC.

Nuie--Garden foliage and partial quiet pool views. Close to GCH and pools. Average walk to TTC.

Samoa--Main pool views one side and quiet pool on the other side. Very close to main pool, close to GCH and average walk to TTC.

Hawaii--Concierge building with theme park views one side and garden on the other.

Tokelau--Garden foliage on one side and garden/quiet pool views on the other side. Average walk to pool and GCH and a little closer to TTC. newer building with larger rooms. Stayed here a few years ago and loved the location and quiet garden views. Can watch EWP and fireworks from the end of the building deck/stairs. Nice.

Rapa Nui--Garden foliage and partial monorail views one side and garden foliage other side. newer building with larger rooms. Average walk to GCH and to main pool. Close to TTC.

Tahiti--Lagoon/Theme park views one side and garden foliage on the other. newer building with bigger rooms. very quiet beach on this longhouse for relaxing. Close to TTC and an average+ walk to GCH. Average walk to main pool.

Just make a request for what is important to you. If you want to be close to the GCH, or close to TTC or full balcony, or ??? Some folks don't like hearing the luau music, some don't want to hear the boat whistles, some don't want to see the monorail...it is a personal thing. My thing is "no monorail/view of ANY cars" as it takes away from my resort feel. My request is "full balcony viewing N, E, or W please" which would eliminate chance of getting monorail views or the side of Fiji.

I hope I haven't confused you more. I know it was a simple question but the answer is a little more complicated. I would not make a longhouse request because that doesn't tell the assigner what you really want if that longhouse isn't available.

 

[Tess]

We got back November 20th from an 8 day stay at the Polynesian - our first visit to Disney World AND to the Poly. I have to say that we totally loved it! Maybe we don't get out much, but we thought it was really fabulous. The lobby area is so lovely and the atmosphere is great. It truly felt like a getaway, especially with us being from Northern Minnesota!

We actually went for the Theme Park View and got 3rd floor Tahiti (room 3036) which was absolutely perfect. The room was nice and spacious and the bathroom with double sinks was lovely for us and the two kids. It was so nice having the balcony and the view of the castle, space mountain and the lake was spectacular. It was heaven to be able to see the fireworks every evening when we happened to be in from the comfort of our room.

I didn't notice any wear and tear..only in the elevator, but that didn't bother me. The room was in good shape. One light in the bathroom got dim towards the end of our stay, but it was fixed right away without our even mentioning it to anyone.

We only missed out on having the room straightened one day and that was because we were back early to rest. We still got fresh towels. WE even got towel animals two of the days which thrilled my munchkins.

Pool was fun. The zero entry was perfect from my 4 year old. The volcano slide was cool but a bit wild for kids age 4 & 6. They each did it once and then were done. Loved the tasty drinks from the bar AND the Dole Whips. Mmmmm.

We ate at 'Ohana twice which was very fun. The best was our first night with an early reservation. Kids loved dancing around and doing the activities, my husband and I loved eating all the food! We went again our last night and it was a later reservation so we were all kind of tired. Service was a bit slower so not quite as good, but mainly I think we were tired. We also did breakfast there with Lilo, Stich, Mickey & Pluto and that was fabulous. Kids loved it and the food was yummy.

Captain Cooks definitely needs to be bigger. We ran in to pick up breakfast one morning, and it was a total zoo in there. It was fine for picking up snacks in between times, but wow - when there's people in there it is nuts!

We also liked the nice sandy beach. We spent a couple hours there one afternoon so the kids could dig in the sand, and they really enjoyed that. We were at the section in front of our room and it was quiet. So relaxing to sit on the lawn chair and look out at the ferries and the castle. Have I mentioned how I LOVED that view?

I know some people complain about Tahiti being far from the GCH, but I really liked that it was so close to the TTC. That was a bonanza. I didn't mind the ferry tooting either....it was a nice sound.

So, thumbs up to The Polynesian for me! I wish I were still there!!! And to all of you heading that way soon - have a brilliant time. I'm sure you will love it!!!

Tricia

Welcome back to reality and thanks for your report. I'm glad you enjoyed it! So, when are you going back?

 

[LittleStinkerbelle]

That is a really subjective question. The Poly has such nice garden view rooms and each has its on benefits and qualities. I don't think there is a really "bad" view...just different. Despite that the resort is in separate longhouses, it is not very spreadout. Walks are relative to what you will use most often. Also, the landscaping is so lush and well themed that the walks are really enjoyable. IMO, the longest walk is from Aotearoa to the TTC but we didn't do that one every day so it really is no biggie. Close walk--less than 2 minutes from room. Average--3-4 minutes from room. Longer--5-7 minutes from room.

Aotearoa--One side has a view of the monorail and beautiful tropical foliage. One side has garden foliage, partial lagoon, and full lagoon/theme park views. Close to Luau Cove and downwind of GCH so you get to hear the wonderful luau music and smell the the wood burning from Ohanas when on the balcony. It is silent when the door is closed. We stayed here last trip and it was great. I loved hearing the music and people watching as folks walked to the luau. Even had a peek-a-boo view of the castle for garden price A longer walk to the TTC but quick to the GCH and an average walk to the pool.

Fiji--One side has marina views the other garden and partial beach/lagoon views. Average walk to pool and close to GCH. Longer walk to TTC.

Tuvalu--One side is TPV and the other side is garden views--probably the least desirable garden view as it is looking at the end of Fiji. Same walks as Fiji.

Roratonga--One side is monorail and tropical foliage views the other has garden/quiet pool views. Right next to the GCH. Close to the pool and an average walk to the TTC.

Nuie--Garden foliage and partial quiet pool views. Close to GCH and pools. Average walk to TTC.

Samoa--Main pool views one side and quiet pool on the other side. Very close to main pool, close to GCH and average walk to TTC.

Hawaii--Concierge building with theme park views one side and garden on the other.

Tokelau--Garden foliage on one side and garden/quiet pool views on the other side. Average walk to pool and GCH and a little closer to TTC. newer building with larger rooms. Stayed here a few years ago and loved the location and quiet garden views. Can watch EWP and fireworks from the end of the building deck/stairs. Nice.

Rapa Nui--Garden foliage and partial monorail views one side and garden foliage other side. newer building with larger rooms. Average walk to GCH and to main pool. Close to TTC.

Tahiti--Lagoon/Theme park views one side and garden foliage on the other. newer building with bigger rooms. very quiet beach on this longhouse for relaxing. Close to TTC and an average+ walk to GCH. Average walk to main pool.

Just make a request for what is important to you. If you want to be close to the GCH, or close to TTC or full balcony, or ??? Some folks don't like hearing the luau music, some don't want to hear the boat whistles, some don't want to see the monorail...it is a personal thing. My thing is "no monorail/view of ANY cars" as it takes away from my resort feel. My request is "full balcony viewing N, E, or W please" which would eliminate chance of getting monorail views or the side of Fiji.

I hope I haven't confused you more. I know it was a simple question but the answer is a little more complicated. I would not make a longhouse request because that doesn't tell the assigner what you really want if that longhouse isn't available.

This is great info - thanks so much for sharing! We are booked for a garden view in January, right when the quiet pool rehab is supposed to start so I want to request something that would (hopefully) keep us from getting "construction" view. This is very helpful!

 

[Grace&Carolinesmom]

This is great info - thanks so much for sharing! We are booked for a garden view in January, right when the quiet pool rehab is supposed to start so I want to request something that would (hopefully) keep us from getting "construction" view. This is very helpful!

You're welcome. I was worried it was too wordy LOL.

You may want to add "near Luau Cove" for a room request and that will help you avoid quiet pool construction.

 

[pumpkinfish]

We got back November 20th from an 8 day stay at the Polynesian - our first visit to Disney World AND to the Poly. I have to say that we totally loved it! Maybe we don't get out much, but we thought it was really fabulous. The lobby area is so lovely and the atmosphere is great. It truly felt like a getaway, especially with us being from Northern Minnesota!
.....
So, thumbs up to The Polynesian for me! I wish I were still there!!! And to all of you heading that way soon - have a brilliant time. I'm sure you will love it!!!

Tricia

Just read your post out loud to my husband as we are getting really excited about our trip. So glad you enjoyed the Poly...
Now the issue comes into play that you will NEVER be able to stay anywhere else and can never have anything less than a Theme Park View! So if that can even be called a negative, I think it's worth it!

 

[bethclayton]

Grace&Caroline'smom, I also found your info to be very helpful! Can't wait to see where we end up! Only ten more days until we find out!

 

[kimmar067]

That is a really subjective question. The Poly has such nice garden view rooms and each has its on benefits and qualities. I don't think there is a really "bad" view...just different. Despite that the resort is in separate longhouses, it is not very spreadout. Walks are relative to what you will use most often. Also, the landscaping is so lush and well themed that the walks are really enjoyable. IMO, the longest walk is from Aotearoa to the TTC but we didn't do that one every day so it really is no biggie. Close walk--less than 2 minutes from room. Average--3-4 minutes from room. Longer--5-7 minutes from room.

Aotearoa--One side has a view of the monorail and beautiful tropical foliage. One side has garden foliage, partial lagoon, and full lagoon/theme park views. Close to Luau Cove and downwind of GCH so you get to hear the wonderful luau music and smell the the wood burning from Ohanas when on the balcony. It is silent when the door is closed. We stayed here last trip and it was great. I loved hearing the music and people watching as folks walked to the luau. Even had a peek-a-boo view of the castle for garden price A longer walk to the TTC but quick to the GCH and an average walk to the pool.

Fiji--One side has marina views the other garden and partial beach/lagoon views. Average walk to pool and close to GCH. Longer walk to TTC.

Tuvalu--One side is TPV and the other side is garden views--probably the least desirable garden view as it is looking at the end of Fiji. Same walks as Fiji.

Roratonga--One side is monorail and tropical foliage views the other has garden/quiet pool views. Right next to the GCH. Close to the pool and an average walk to the TTC.

Nuie--Garden foliage and partial quiet pool views. Close to GCH and pools. Average walk to TTC.

Samoa--Main pool views one side and quiet pool on the other side. Very close to main pool, close to GCH and average walk to TTC.

Hawaii--Concierge building with theme park views one side and garden on the other.

Tokelau--Garden foliage on one side and garden/quiet pool views on the other side. Average walk to pool and GCH and a little closer to TTC. newer building with larger rooms. Stayed here a few years ago and loved the location and quiet garden views. Can watch EWP and fireworks from the end of the building deck/stairs. Nice.

Rapa Nui--Garden foliage and partial monorail views one side and garden foliage other side. newer building with larger rooms. Average walk to GCH and to main pool. Close to TTC.

Tahiti--Lagoon/Theme park views one side and garden foliage on the other. newer building with bigger rooms. very quiet beach on this longhouse for relaxing. Close to TTC and an average+ walk to GCH. Average walk to main pool.

Just make a request for what is important to you. If you want to be close to the GCH, or close to TTC or full balcony, or ??? Some folks don't like hearing the luau music, some don't want to hear the boat whistles, some don't want to see the monorail...it is a personal thing. My thing is "no monorail/view of ANY cars" as it takes away from my resort feel. My request is "full balcony viewing N, E, or W please" which would eliminate chance of getting monorail views or the side of Fiji.

I hope I haven't confused you more. I know it was a simple question but the answer is a little more complicated. I would not make a longhouse request because that doesn't tell the assigner what you really want if that longhouse isn't available.

....wow, how in-depth! This info is very useful....so much to consider...

 

[PolyDec2008]

We're exactly 48 hours away from Poly bliss!!! I have a few little things left before we leave, and I'm hoping to get everything done today so I'm not running around like a madwoman tomorrow. CAN'T WAIT!!!

Have Fun! Can't wait to here a report back

 

[LittleStinkerbelle]

You're welcome. I was worried it was too wordy LOL.

You may want to add "near Luau Cove" for a room request and that will help you avoid quiet pool construction.

Thanks so much for that tip! Can't wait to report back as to where we ended up .

 

[Grace&Carolinesmom]

Thanks so much for that tip! Can't wait to report back as to where we ended up .

I so look forward to everyone's trip reports. I am living vicariously thru everyone else right now. Our next vacay is going to be a low-key, super-relaxing, budget beach trip to Navarre Beach. Next WDW trip won't be until 2012...unless we win the lottery...