Anyone else not impressed by SSR ?

[Desperado]

Originally posted by HookdonWDW
Ahemmm... NO!! No one should ever love staying at BCVs. They are bad. Very bad. This has been a public service announcement. We now take you back to your regularly scheduled thread...

Well, it's hard to read posts like this. But I guess your right, people shouldn't make reservations at BCVs, they should choose the other resorts. BCV my find itself stuck with greater availability than the other resorts, it's just a burdeon the resort will have to bear.

 

[bom_noite]

Oh well, unfortunately some threads go down this path. I think the OP made it very clear that they had no ill will towards SSR - it was just an observation. And, many of the folks who replied agreed with that observation.

Does that mean SSR should be avoided? No. Is this an attack on those who bought in at SSR? No - you should be proud and excited because I think you are going to be very happy with your purchase.

I think WDWguruDH framed the argument best - their are going to be Pro's and Con's with each resort. I would go on to say that I would list some of his Pro's as Con's and vice versa. It is a personal thing.

Oh well, lets get this thing back to a logical discussion on the "perceived" benefits and drawbacks of SSR.

 

[happyrebster]

Random note: I loved SSR -- especially this past week when there were so few people. My only concerns are : 1) the eventual total population of the resort; and 2) (minor point) the trees are not large enough yet. (Though they did a fine job retaining many large ones). The latter issue will take care of itself in about 5 to 10 years (they planted many beautiful medium-sized trees -- likely at great expense), just as the former starts to become more of a problem (in 2007, when phase 3 is complete). I am really curious to see what the place is like at that time. Until then, however, I really enjoyed it. Absolutely lovely time.

 

[Sammie]

Originally posted by TheRustyScupper
1) Compared to Values or Modferates, it is nice.
2) Compared to DVC or other timeshares, it is mediocre.
3) I was not overly impressed.
4) We did not buy.

Which DVC property are you saying it's mediocre to? All of them, one of them?

Have you stayed at all the other DVC resorts to make a comparison?

I can't see how anyone could say the interior decor at SSR is anything other than first rate. It might not appeal to some but the furnishings are top quality.

 

[jarestel]

I don't understand how one can not be impressed with SSR. We took the tour last week and found it to be a first class and top notch resort. It's one thing to say SSR isn't your cup of tea and that's fine because we all have DVC resorts we like more than others, but in my opinion SSR is very impressive. We didn't buy additional points at SSR because we don't have the time to use all of the points we currently have, but we are definitely looking forward to staying there on our trip in October.

 

[KNWVIKING]

..... Nothing pleases me more then to hear that people are impressed with SSR , love the theming and thrilled that they bought there.

Just as you can't understand how I wasn't impressed with the resort, I can't understand how people can order a big, fat, juicy porterhouse steak and eat it any way but bloody rare. We all have different tastes and opinions, neither of which are wrong.

 

[eporter66]

I was very impressed. We stayed for a week and loved the resort. This was our first DVC trip, so I cannot compare it to the other resorts.

I do think the fact that the resort is not finished and has construction going on could detract from the overall feel.

I thought that the common area was great - I loved the feel, and thought it felt like walking down a mainstreet of a small town or village as was said in another post. The pool did not seem hidden or out of the way at all.

As for Artists Palette, they will probably have some tweaking to do to get it right. But everything we had there was really good - I was actually a bit surprised.

We love the location as we rent a car so getting to the parks is not an issue. Having Downtown Disney so close is a bonus if you like having a place to go at night.

Everyone will have opinions - but since we stayed at the resort, I felt like I have a good perspective about it.

Thanks

 

[flyinglizard]

We took the first day tour on May 7th. At first I was a little disappointed when the guard told me to go park at the Cirque lot, but ... they had a plan.

There were cast members everywhere along the route to guide the guests through the complete tour and to answer questions. By parking at the Cirque lot, you could see how convenient it would be to walk to DTD, or to walk home after a night at Cirque or PI.

We were very impressed by the resort. We liked the layout of the buildings and all the amenities. The rooms were pretty much what we are used to, but the decorating was different. The studio rooms now have a full length mirror, thanks to my DW. The Grand Villa we toured was fantastic with a two story view of DTD.
That view must be incredible at night! The furnishings are first class, I think American Drew but it might have been Thomasville.

The High Rock Spring pool is very nice with a "zero entry"- kind of a ramp for people with or without disabilities. I'd like to see a nice restaurant on site, even though there are a lot of choices just across the lake.

If you play golf, this would be your first choice. If you like to party til the wee hours at PI, you wouldn't have to worry about parking at DTD at night. DW said she would like to stay there sometime in the near future. I want to try the food court, and walking "home" after a night at PI.

If you are considering a DVC purchase, this new site has a lot to offer. I think you will be impressed and pleased when you see the resort in person.

 

[disneycrazed139]

I will be able to say more definitively in a few weeks, but so far, I have several impressions.

First, the landscaping in the pictures is gorgeous, and I am sure it is even better when you're there. If it looks this good in the pictures, I can't wait to see the real SSR.

The rooms look very nice to me. I love the location next to DTD and the views at night of PI are phenomenal.

The pool looks very inviting and the feel of the resort (from photos only) very relaxing.

I am slightly unhappy that the main walkway to DTD will not be open on our first trip, but this will pass.

It also sounds like the boat dock isn't too convenient, which is a bit disappointing. I might not mind much though. I like walking, and having stayed at CBR, I can't imagine there is much more walking than at that resort. (anyone been at CBR and SSR that can compare?) CBR is very spread out and you have to walk quite a bit to get anywhere, but I never minded (except when it began to rain!)

The outdoor hallways don't bother me.

 

[eporter66]

We stayed at Carribean Beach Resort - and that is one thing I will never forget is the walking. It felt like we were forever from the bus stops. And those buses seemed to just take forever to get out of the resort I dont think SSR was that bad. From Congress Park Buildings to the main area was not a bad walk at all.

I just felt personally that the boat launch is a bit out of the way. It might not be as bad for the other buildings as you can walk up through the main building from the boat launch (by the golf course) and cross the street to where the paddocks stand.

It has been awhile since we were at CBR - but I felt that resort was way too spread out.

We got up every morning and went for walks, so we dont mind walking either. Considering all the walking that you do in the parks every day, most people should be pretty used to it.

 

[burnsoc]

Disneycrazed139,
You're right about the landscaping. What they've done so far is really nice.
-Chris

 

[Dean]

I can't say much about SSR as I haven't seen it open. I have seen it in construction and seen the models at BWV sales. I like the models but don't care for the location. I'm sure it will be nice enough when it is completed. The reason I am posting is one I've commented on before. That a person that doesn't like a resort (any resort) and says so, IS NOT RESORT BASHING. I am amazed that people get so defensive when someone doesn't like their resort. Just be honest and all should be OK.

 

[LIFERBABE]

The furnishings are first class, I think American Drew but it might have been Thomasville.

Yes the furnishings are Thomasville, the fixtures are Kohler, and the ceiling fans are Hunter and the windows are double paned glass LOL!


The landscaping is beautiful and manicured. The location and the views will put it in a league of its own. I mainly own at BCV, but I won't feel "stuck" if all they have is SSR. Matter of fact, I can see us spending alot of time there.

I personally don't take offense when someone states their opinion and enjoy reading all thoughts.

 

[jarestel]

Originally posted by KNWVIKING
Just as you can't understand how I wasn't impressed with the resort, I can't understand how people can order a big, fat, juicy porterhouse steak and eat it any way but bloody rare. We all have different tastes and opinions, neither of which are wrong.

I agree. I should have taken more time with my post to get the idea across, I wasn't trying to argue opinions at all. I was talking semantics I guess with the use of the word "impressed". I'm impressed by many things I have no interest in having, so I was just saying that regardless of whether one has an interest in staying at SSR or not, I did think it was pretty impressive nevertheless. Apologies for the miscommunication.

 

[MarkRG]

After touring it in person, I thought it is going to be a very nice resort when it is finished. It, from what has been done looks very nice. Would I stay there? Sure, at some future time. Would I buy there? No, it's not right resort for me. Have no interest in PI, or the other aspects of the resort itself to the point I'd buy there. As I repeat over and over you have to decide which resort fits best into what your goals for your visit are. Popular opinion is meaningless here. Each resort has different points of interest, differing atmospheres, and location is a very important factor.

Now, I would also point out one thing about the dining. If you look at the other totally DVC stand alone resorts, how many restaurants do they have? BWV/BCV/VWL don't count as they have regular guest rooms. It's an overall design theme it seems to have just one. And it's not like there are more very nice ones right across the bay either. And if the Taste was any indicator, a nice wide variety too

 

[DrTomorrow]

Greetings!

Disclaimer: We bought into SSR last fall and have never stayed at another DVC resort.

Claimer: We actually stayed at SSR last week - 6 nights in a studio - and experienced the entire resort as residents, not tourists.

Well, I'm glad that I have the attitude that intelligent people can have opposing opinions - what a polarizing place SSR has turned out to be!

We loved it! No regrets, no remorse. It's a perfect fit for us.

I'd like to take a few moments, though, and respond (in a polite and friendly way) some comments others have made. And no, this isn't a 'defensive' response; with all due respect, worrying about what others think is rarely a healthy way to spend your life. I just wanted add in the opinions of someone who actually stayed there.

Boxy look of common areas: Well, I did a little research, and this style of architecture is indeed appropriate for Saratoga Springs NY of the past. Perhaps if all you did was to drive down Broadway, with doors on one side and construction fence on the other, you didn't see the interior courtyard. Fountain, landscaping, public benches - we really got a feel of an old-fashioned downtown. Along those lines, someone mentioned that they should create a "bustling" uptown area ; well there is a laundry, the Community Hall, the Spa, Artist's Palette, High Rock Springs and the Arcade. With only one building open, it's hard to generate 'bustle' ::grin:: but with all the MH people there on Founder's Day, the place was hoppin'.

did not like the motel feeling - cement hallways and very little decor on the hallway walls. Just goes to show how opinions vary - we LOVED this aspect (although 'cememt' hallways doesn't quite do it justice). We also go to Las Vegas, and nothing is more depressing than a motel corridor with the endless doors and generic carpet. At SSR, we felt as if we were in an attraction as we walked to our room, able to see out - not in yet another motel. And this isn't done like a Motel 6, folks - the hallways are indeed painted & themed, with curved out areas to stop and enjoy the view.

Boat docks I agree that the dock area needs improvement - I'd assume that that was inherited; there also may be some conflict from the golf course. As to the boats, again we thought they were wonderful! Sitting in the shade with the breeze off the water from DTD to SSR was a joy. And regarding enclosed boats - once again, too much like a taxi; that's why we love taking boats from MK resorts to the MK, as they are open. Oh, a CM comment about the dock - they are lobbying heavily to get a bridge built from the gazebo to the main area; this would make the dock much more convenient to the Congress Park area.

Personal observation. Hmmm, maybe it's because we were here in a very hot May and many of you are December-only folks, but our trip to WDW last week makes me wonder about all those who value the ability to walk to EPCOT or MGM. Maybe it's just me, but come 2 PM on a hot day, after hours in the park, if I'm given the choice to wait a few minutes in the shade for a seat on a nice air-conditioned bus, or a 10-20 minute sweltering and sweaty walk to my room, the bus wins every time. SSR's service was great - no half-hour waits.

Unlike OKW, the parking does not put you right at the unit, This one confuses the heck out of me. We parked about 10 feet from the entrance to our building - and 30 feet from an elevator; any closer and I'd need a HC permit! Unless the poster was referring to the short walk to your room once you're on your floor, I'm not sure they were at SSR ::wink::

almost have to have a car or use the busses just to get around the resort. Another curious statement. It was, what, 2 minutes from building to bus stop, 5-6 to the Town Center - there are longer walks at the GF and the Polynesian! One thing that we did notice is that the place isn't as big as the maps make it seem. I'd be willing to bet that you could walk from one end of the resort to the other - at least once 12 buildings are open - in 15 minutes or less. And hey, it's a resort; if I'd wanted everything scrunched together, I'd have bought resale! ::snark::

Compared to DVC or other timeshares, it is mediocre. Hee hee hee - I almost fell for this. SSR mediocre compared to CBR, POFQ and POR. Tres funny!

Several people have mentioned that an interest in DTD or golf would be necessary to enjoy SSR - I politely disagree. While SSR does indeed facilitate such activities, the resort - as it stands alone - is a fine addition to the DVC stable of resorts.

Any other questions for someone who actually stayed there for almost a week - let 'em fly!

 

[Sammie]

Originally posted by DrTomorrow
Greetings!

Disclaimer: We bought into SSR last fall and have never stayed at another DVC resort.

Claimer: We actually stayed at SSR last week - 6 nights in a studio - and experienced the entire resort as residents, not tourists.

Well, I'm glad that I have the attitude that intelligent people can have opposing opinions - what a polarizing place SSR has turned out to be!

We loved it! No regrets, no remorse. It's a perfect fit for us.

I'd like to take a few moments, though, and respond (in a polite and friendly way) some comments others have made. And no, this isn't a 'defensive' response; with all due respect, worrying about what others think is rarely a healthy way to spend your life. I just wanted add in the opinions of someone who actually stayed there.

Boxy look of common areas: Well, I did a little research, and this style of architecture is indeed appropriate for Saratoga Springs NY of the past. Perhaps if all you did was to drive down Broadway, with doors on one side and construction fence on the other, you didn't see the interior courtyard. Fountain, landscaping, public benches - we really got a feel of an old-fashioned downtown. Along those lines, someone mentioned that they should create a "bustling" uptown area ; well there is a laundry, the Community Hall, the Spa, Artist's Palette, High Rock Springs and the Arcade. With only one building open, it's hard to generate 'bustle' ::grin:: but with all the MH people there on Founder's Day, the place was hoppin'.

did not like the motel feeling - cement hallways and very little decor on the hallway walls. Just goes to show how opinions vary - we LOVED this aspect (although 'cememt' hallways doesn't quite do it justice). We also go to Las Vegas, and nothing is more depressing than a motel corridor with the endless doors and generic carpet. At SSR, we felt as if we were in an attraction as we walked to our room, able to see out - not in yet another motel. And this isn't done like a Motel 6, folks - the hallways are indeed painted & themed, with curved out areas to stop and enjoy the view.

Boat docks I agree that the dock area needs improvement - I'd assume that that was inherited; there also may be some conflict from the golf course. As to the boats, again we thought they were wonderful! Sitting in the shade with the breeze off the water from DTD to SSR was a joy. And regarding enclosed boats - once again, too much like a taxi; that's why we love taking boats from MK resorts to the MK, as they are open. Oh, a CM comment about the dock - they are lobbying heavily to get a bridge built from the gazebo to the main area; this would make the dock much more convenient to the Congress Park area.

Personal observation. Hmmm, maybe it's because we were here in a very hot May and many of you are December-only folks, but our trip to WDW last week makes me wonder about all those who value the ability to walk to EPCOT or MGM. Maybe it's just me, but come 2 PM on a hot day, after hours in the park, if I'm given the choice to wait a few minutes in the shade for a seat on a nice air-conditioned bus, or a 10-20 minute sweltering and sweaty walk to my room, the bus wins every time. SSR's service was great - no half-hour waits.

Unlike OKW, the parking does not put you right at the unit, This one confuses the heck out of me. We parked about 10 feet from the entrance to our building - and 30 feet from an elevator; any closer and I'd need a HC permit! Unless the poster was referring to the short walk to your room once you're on your floor, I'm not sure they were at SSR ::wink::

almost have to have a car or use the busses just to get around the resort. Another curious statement. It was, what, 2 minutes from building to bus stop, 5-6 to the Town Center - there are longer walks at the GF and the Polynesian! One thing that we did notice is that the place isn't as big as the maps make it seem. I'd be willing to bet that you could walk from one end of the resort to the other - at least once 12 buildings are open - in 15 minutes or less. And hey, it's a resort; if I'd wanted everything scrunched together, I'd have bought resale! ::snark::

Compared to DVC or other timeshares, it is mediocre. Hee hee hee - I almost fell for this. SSR mediocre compared to CBR, POFQ and POR. Tres funny!

Several people have mentioned that an interest in DTD or golf would be necessary to enjoy SSR - I politely disagree. While SSR does indeed facilitate such activities, the resort - as it stands alone - is a fine addition to the DVC stable of resorts.

Any other questions for someone who actually stayed there for almost a week - let 'em fly!

Thank you for your comments and I agree with so much of what you pointed out. I have not been to SSR yet, upcoming trip soon. But I do just from looking at all the wonderful photos posted had to wonder if people were even at the same resort.

I agree that we can all like different things, but I also agree that sometimes it seems the descriptions, as you stated, are not fair in their appraisal. For example if I have a very small child, I might not like SAB for various reasons, but it would be completely misleading to say that pool is not impressive.

Also the BW does not appeal to my personal tastes, but I can appreciate the detail to themeing. Even if I don't find it personally appealing I would never describe it as boring.

To me there is a difference in giving an honest appraisal of something for it's own merit and stating it does not appeal to you.

This happened alot with the opening with AKL. Many complained it was dark, etc. While that might not appeal to you it is keeping to the theme of the resort.

As to your stay, what floor were you own and were the villas quiet from neighbor noise?