ALOHA! The Poly FAQ~ Spring 2010 Edition

[jetskigrl]

Okay all, I am leaving tomorrow for the weekend at the Poly and I am totally psyched!! I have a GV booked but I am going back and forth with the idea of changing to a LV room ($$)for the fireworks watching, etc. Please help me make up my mind!! Thanks.

I'm the wrong person to ask because I will say go for the LV room, and I have never even been to WDW before, LOL. But that will change next month (woo hoo - I can say next month now ) when we make our first visit to the world and to the poly. And yes, we opted for a TPV, just because I am totally in love with the idea of being able to wake up to the view of the castle and settle in at night watching the fireworks from our room.

 

[Zuzu03]

I feel the same way. I was very excited for our trip, but to be honest, Tess' report kind of bummed me out! (sorry, Tess, I don't mean to pick on you!) This would be our first ever stay at CL, but now I'm not sure it's worth the extra $$ - doesn't sound like the food is up to par. The other things we liked about the Poly are the fireworks at the beach and the volcano pool, but don't really want to deal with unreasonable crowds.

So, now I'm considering changing to two rooms at CBR for our entire trip. It would save us some cash, we'd do DDP for the entire trip (instead of just the first three days at POR).

I think I really need to just stay off the boards for a while...

It's funny, I was thinking the same thing about staying CL - and if it was just DH and I, I probably would change, but DD has her heart set on it, so I'm sticking to the original plan. I have nothing to compare it to as we've never stayed CL either. I'm sure it will be fine and don't forget the convenient location and beautiful grounds are what make the Poly so special!!!

 

[sunnygal041]

Thanks for all the input. I think I am gonna stick with GV, I had requested the Tahiti longhouse, so I will just walk down to the beach, if I get lucky enough to be assigned there. I am on a budget and the extra $$ I will save will help with other bills.

 

[mdrob214]

I feel the same way. I was very excited for our trip, but to be honest, Tess' report kind of bummed me out! (sorry, Tess, I don't mean to pick on you!) This would be our first ever stay at CL, but now I'm not sure it's worth the extra $$ - doesn't sound like the food is up to par. The other things we liked about the Poly are the fireworks at the beach and the volcano pool, but don't really want to deal with unreasonable crowds.

So, now I'm considering changing to two rooms at CBR for our entire trip. It would save us some cash, we'd do DDP for the entire trip (instead of just the first three days at POR).

I think I really need to just stay off the boards for a while...

It's funny, I was thinking the same thing about staying CL - and if it was just DH and I, I probably would change, but DD has her heart set on it, so I'm sticking to the original plan. I have nothing to compare it to as we've never stayed CL either. I'm sure it will be fine and don't forget the convenient location and beautiful grounds are what make the Poly so special!!!

I guess we all think alike! DH has told me to just stop reading and we can form our own opinions. I know he's right. I mean, I read all the time here on the DIS where person A hates the Poly and then person B loves it! Same with restaurants--some people love one and others hate that same one. I cannot change resorts (to my satisfaction) at this late date so I'm going with the attitude that I'll be fine and form my own opinions! And you know how it all depends on the moment whether things are good/bad.

 

[jdd]

I guess we all think alike! DH has told me to just stop reading and we can form our own opinions. I know he's right. I mean, I read all the time here on the DIS where person A hates the Poly and then person B loves it! Same with restaurants--some people love one and others hate that same one. I cannot change resorts (to my satisfaction) at this late date so I'm going with the attitude that I'll be fine and form my own opinions! And you know how it all depends on the moment whether things are good/bad.

So true! Have a great trip, and come back to tell us all the wonderful things about the Poly!!

BTW - love your signature - Princess Bride is one of my favorites

 

[damren]

OMG just got back from the Poly and we are in LOVE! Now we can't see ourselves going anywhere else!!!

 

[Tess]

I feel the same way. I was very excited for our trip, but to be honest, Tess' report kind of bummed me out! (sorry, Tess, I don't mean to pick on you!) This would be our first ever stay at CL, but now I'm not sure it's worth the extra $$ - doesn't sound like the food is up to par. The other things we liked about the Poly are the fireworks at the beach and the volcano pool, but don't really want to deal with unreasonable crowds.

So, now I'm considering changing to two rooms at CBR for our entire trip. It would save us some cash, we'd do DDP for the entire trip (instead of just the first three days at POR).

I think I really need to just stay off the boards for a while...

I'm really sorry you were bummed out by my report and no need to apologize--I don't feel picked upon. When I post impressions of the Polynesian, I am posting as a long time repeat visitor. I have many years and a huge frame of reference upon which to base my opinions.

Please don't let my opinions color your view or vacation planning. Since you have not stayed CL before and not at the Polynesian, you need to form your own opinions.

The CL CMs are the wonderful and the food should not be the big draw to CL. You won't notice that the offerings are diminished--you've never experienced the CL at Polynesian when it was more bountiful. I assure you, the counters are full of items from which to choose and you will be none the wiser. As to the quality, who knows--once the new Chef is firmly ensconced--the quality will be back to normal. Remember, I was visiting a mere week after Chef Dick departed and the CL lounge was in a state of flux.

As for the crowds, if you are going in summer, the crowds will be everywhere. You will just have to persevere.

Please don't worry. You will enjoy your stay and you really will never know unless you try it for yourself.

BTW, I'm not sure how anyone could have perceived that our stay was less than terrific. I would return again in a heartbeat. It would take more than crowds, rubber chicken, and pooping pool children to keep us away.

It's funny, I was thinking the same thing about staying CL - and if it was just DH and I, I probably would change, but DD has her heart set on it, so I'm sticking to the original plan. I have nothing to compare it to as we've never stayed CL either. I'm sure it will be fine and don't forget the convenient location and beautiful grounds are what make the Poly so special!!!

It will be fine--see above! The grounds are gorgeous!

I guess we all think alike! DH has told me to just stop reading and we can form our own opinions. I know he's right. I mean, I read all the time here on the DIS where person A hates the Poly and then person B loves it! Same with restaurants--some people love one and others hate that same one. I cannot change resorts (to my satisfaction) at this late date so I'm going with the attitude that I'll be fine and form my own opinions! And you know how it all depends on the moment whether things are good/bad.

Your DH is a wise man. I don't understand how anyone could "hate" the Polynesian. Restaurants on the other hand. . . I couldn't agree more--form your own opinions and keep a good attitude.

So true! Have a great trip, and come back to tell us all the wonderful things about the Poly!!

BTW - love your signature - Princess Bride is one of my favorites

Yes, Yes--all of you please report!

P.S: I just saw the post above this--see what I mean!

 

[Tess]

OMG just got back from the Poly and we are in LOVE! Now we can't see ourselves going anywhere else!!!

Welcome back or should I offer condolences because you had to leave?

 

[mdrob214]

Tess--It sure sounds as if CL is not what it used to be. I still think that it'll be a nice treat for our week. We've already utilized the IPO quite a bit. Im sure they're tired of seeing my emails! We really will not be taking advantage of the food offerings much outside of breakfast and the occasional dessert/cordial. What is most disappointing to hear is the attitude of some guests--not being aware of others and not practicing common courtesies. My mother would hang me if I left without picking up after myself or sat on upholstered furniture in a wet swimsuit, pigged out on a buffet.... It's more about basic manners, IMO.

And thanks, damren! It's nice to hear you obviously had a wonderful trip. We'd love to hear all about it.

 

[jdd]

The CL CMs are the wonderful and the food should not be the big draw to CL.

BTW, I'm not sure how anyone could have perceived that our stay was less than terrific. I would return again in a heartbeat. It would take more than crowds, rubber chicken, and pooping pool children to keep us away.

I didn't mean to imply you didn't have a wonderful stay! It sounds like you had a great time, and your pictures are beautiful. The Poly resort, itself, is absolutely gorgeous.

Just some background - we've stayed at several of the DW resorts, and have really loved all of them (for different reasons of course). We pretty much have to do deluxe resorts now (due to kids' ages) or two rooms at a value or mod. I love the look of the Poly - more of a resort feel than the CR or BC/YC (IMO) and just love the idea of watching the fireworks from the beach (although I know we could do this while staying anywhere, I think there'd be something special about just walking back to our room from there). Also, like the look of the volcano pool (kids have to have a good slide )

And honestly, the main reason we decided on club level was for the food and the lounge. I've already made all of my own dining ressies and I complete my own itinerary (I actually really enjoy planning it all out!) We just thought it would be great to have breakfast right at the hotel each day, have a big lunch out somewhere, and have the evening offerings as a light dinner. We're not huge eaters, especially when it's hot, and this would work great for us.

So, the negatives I picked up in your report just happened to be about the things we were most looking forward to about our stay: crowded pool and beach and so-so CL food (which I've read elsewhere as well). That's the reason I'm thinking of switching. And really, it's not all on you!! I'm an obsessive planner, and always second guessing myself. We're currently planning a split stay this year (and did one last year) mainly because I just can't decide what would be "best".

I really appreciated your honest review and probably will end up staying with the Poly (always been a dream of mine ), but I may decide against CL.....there I go again!

 

[Tess]

Tess--It sure sounds as if CL is not what it used to be. I still think that it'll be a nice treat for our week. We've already utilized the IPO quite a bit. Im sure they're tired of seeing my emails! We really will not be taking advantage of the food offerings much outside of breakfast and the occasional dessert/cordial. What is most disappointing to hear is the attitude of some guests--not being aware of others and not practicing common courtesies. My mother would hang me if I left without picking up after myself or sat on upholstered furniture in a wet swimsuit, pigged out on a buffet.... It's more about basic manners, IMO.

And thanks, damren! It's nice to hear you obviously had a wonderful trip. We'd love to hear all about it.

As to the part I bolded, this behavior is nothing new in CL--there are always people who have no clue about manners or good behavior. I usually ignore them (and I could care less how much anyone eats) until I get a wet hiney sitting in their puddles! My mother would also have been adjusting my behavior as I would have my own two.

It will be a treat and IPO was really good this year.

 

[POOHDRMR]

I saw in one of the photo's of the gift shop that there were really large shovels for sale but does anyone know if they sell buckets there too?My dd would like to play on the beach and I don't want to take up suitcase space if I don't need too!

 

[Minnie&Nana]

Tess--It sure sounds as if CL is not what it used to be. I still think that it'll be a nice treat for our week. We've already utilized the IPO quite a bit. Im sure they're tired of seeing my emails! We really will not be taking advantage of the food offerings much outside of breakfast and the occasional dessert/cordial. What is most disappointing to hear is the attitude of some guests--not being aware of others and not practicing common courtesies. My mother would hang me if I left without picking up after myself or sat on upholstered furniture in a wet swimsuit, pigged out on a buffet.... It's more about basic manners, IMO.

And thanks, damren! It's nice to hear you obviously had a wonderful trip. We'd love to hear all about it.

This is more my disappointment as well. When I first read Tess's review I was hesitant about our upcoming CL stay because I trust her opinion, but have decided we will enjoy CL and our TPV view most of all!! We've been staying at the Poly since 1981. Forget the year CL began, but it was disappointing at first because prior to CL all rooms received evening turn down service and a daily newspaper, so we did not care to pay for what we'd always recieved. Times change - we go along with the changes and continue to enjoy our very favorite resort!

 

[aprincesswannabe]

OMG just got back from the Poly and we are in LOVE! Now we can't see ourselves going anywhere else!!!

Exactly how we felt after our first Poly stay - and we haven't stayed anywhere else since then!

 

[Minnie&Nana]

Originally Posted by damren
OMG just got back from the Poly and we are in LOVE! Now we can't see ourselves going anywhere else!!!

Another guest hooked!!!

 

[mdrob214]

As to the part I bolded, this behavior is nothing new in CL--there are always people who have no clue about manners or good behavior. I usually ignore them (and I could care less how much anyone eats) until I get a wet hiney sitting in their puddles! My mother would also have been adjusting my behavior as I would have my own two.

It will be a treat and IPO was really good this year.

You're correct there! Actually, manners seem to be lacking in many places, not just WDW and CL lounges, but that's a whole different thread!

 

[Mai Ku Tiki]

I've been lucky enough to stay at the Poly about 10X since my first visit in 1972. FELL IN LOVE with the place!!! When DS was born in '86, I immediately began planning his wedding on the beach! (I am currently looking for a young lady for him who has the same dream! ) Some stays have been PERFECT! Others, not so much. But there has NEVER been a time when I fell out of love with the Poly itself. Now, as DVC members, we don't stay there anymore. But when WDW finally gets smart & opens the POLY DVC, I'll be first in line!!

Having said that, I find the descriptions of uncivilized behavior at the CL lounge to be UNACCEPTABLE. We only stayed concierge once YEARS ago & it was grand! But, dang, if I'm stayin' & payin', I deserve better than what MANY have been describing in their TRs. I strongly believe the Poly management should enforce a standard of behavior (& SHOES at least, for Pete's sake!). After all, it IS a dining room. The laissez-faire attitude toward the pools, beaches & CL may gain some business for now, but in the long run, a DELUXE resort must continually earn the name.

Still, I envy all of you who will be POLY-side soon & wish you a beautiful visit! Aloha!!!!!

 

[916chipndale]

OMG just got back from the Poly and we are in LOVE! Now we can't see ourselves going anywhere else!!!

glad you enjoyed it! what longhouse did you stay in?and what view?

 

[damren]

glad you enjoyed it! what longhouse did you stay in?and what view?

First we stayed in Aotearoa. It was quiet and nice but kind of far away, so we thought we would see if they could move us any closer to the pool, they said nothing was available and DH said ok, how much just to pay for a waterview and they still said nothing available but to call after 4. So we went out to HS watched Fantasmic for the first time (AWESOME!) than came back and saw that concierge was closed so we went to bed.

The next morning we had decided not to be so petty and called them to cancel our move and the CM said are you sure? you are right at the pool so DH said yes and we were moved to Samoa. We LOVED it. I could open the door and here the music, I could see my DD going down the slide (she waved everytime) we were on the third floor with a volcano view and you could see the lagoon and the GF. It was amazing! room 3602

 

[ctjsowens]

Just got back this past Friday and stayed club level and miss it badly!! We loved it! We'll definitely be back or at least back and forth in stays from WL to Poly. Such a beautiful resort! Talking about behavior or actions in the club level lounge, one night we were in there and a 12 or 13 yr old boy was going thru the food offerings with his fingers and one of the staff saw him which I was hoping would happen and she really let him have it. She told him no one wanted to eat what he had touched and also told him a few other things about manners. They promptly took the food he had touched and dumped it. I really praise the actions they took! Some people just dont know how to act. Everything else was great! Vacation was over with way too quick! Already making plans for next year!