Another opinion on CSR vs. PORFQ

[ptrbryant]

Just passing on some info from my friend who is on her 1st ever trip to WDW. She booked the resorts without too much research (just looked at some photos online) or pre-conceived ideas (i.e. never checked out message boards, etc.) I spoke with her on the phone after the 2nd part of her split stay.
So, for a newbie's opinion on CSR vs. PORFQ:

*CSR She loves the beautiful grounds and main pool at CSR. She found the guestroom itself to be a bit disappointing (said it looked a little "beat up"--chipped/peeling wallpaper, furnishings not as nice as she's hoped). Because of the incredible surroundings, though, she still likes it. They stayed in the Ranchos section and said her sons had fun climbing the rocks near their room, etc.

* PORFQ She said she can't get over how much better she likes it here. The grounds aren't as "wow" impressive, but the guestrooms seem like a level above CSR's in terms of quality and maintenance and she likes that the resort is more compact and easier to manage with her boys (8 and 4). They also liked taking the boat to DTD.

Personally, I've never been to either resort, but I know several people have been asking for opinions on them. These opinions are from someone who travels quite a bit and is seeing WDW through the eyes of a newbie!

Hope it helps someone...she'll be back this weekend and I can ask her any questions anyone here may have.

Karla B.

 

[Buzz2001]

Can happen anywhere. Here is a thread from someone at POFQ saying they didn't like their room because it was gross.

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=964812

Overall, CSR has a better pool, no shared transportation and a sit down restaurant.

 

[ptrbryant]

I agree completely with you! Actually, I told my friend when they saw the room, they should have gone back to the front desk, explained the situation and requested a room in better condition. If she had, I'm sure they could have accomodated her as it didn't sound as if the resort was full.

In terms of poor housekeeping examples, I think I've read of it happening at nearly every WDW resort at one time or another...for a while, there was a slew of housekeeping issues at the POLY---and I would have really complained about that at the rates charged there.

All in all, I think resort preferences--for the most part--boil down to what theme appeals the most to you. If someone likes a Mardi Gras theme better than a Mexican/Southwestern look, obviously they're going to be happier at PORFQ than at CSR. And the reverse is true as well.

Karla B.