We (7 of us--4 adults, 2 kids, 1 teenager) just returned (3/26) from 6 days at the BCV (2BR)--our first time at a Disney resort. We had stayed previously at Hilton Head and were not impressed and were somewhat apprehensive about BCV. But we were pleasantly surprised.
While the weather was not particularly warm, the atmosphere of the staff at the BCV was. I heard "welcome home" several times and for the most part the staff was quite helpful. There were a few glitches: the phone was dead in one room; the DVD didn't work and the toilet didn't flush in one bathroom. Except for the toilet, however, the maintenance staff was quick to respond and fix the problem. The toilet required several calls and threats to contact supervisors, when it finally got fixed.
The Hoop-de-doo was good and we ate at the Clambake in the Cape May restaurant one evening, which was pretty good also. We especially liked the fact that we were only a 5-7 minute walk from Epcot and a short boat ride from MGM. This was really helpful for the "Illuminations" at Epcot and avoiding the usual crowds trying to escape through the front of the park at closing time.
The Stormalong Bay pools were nice, but we also enjoyed the quiet pools/hot tubs since they were closer to our room (#442). We could see the "Epcot" sign outside our window and some of the fireworks from the Illuminations. We were surprised by how quiet the rooms were. After having the Olympic jumping team stay in the room above us at Hilton Head, we weren't sure how well we would sleep, but the rooms seemed to be quite well insulated and very quiet.
Since there were 7 of us, we took the advice of others posting on this board in regard to transportation between the airport and Disney, by using Florida Tours. We chose the 10 passenger van and there was just enough room for us, luggage, and groceries for a week. The driver was prompt, courteous, and very understanding. On our return trip, we found the same to be true. We definitely prefer this means of transportation to using Mears Shuttle, where we had to handle all the luggage and fight with drivers and other passengers, as well as waiting while everybody else is dropped off. We really recommend Florida Tours!!
The only difficulties we had were with Disney and making reservations for dining. Every time I called I got a different answer about how to get seating. It seems that the left hand knoweth not what the right one is doing.
But overall, it was an excellent, stress-free trip, and we are looking forward to returning next year.
While the weather was not particularly warm, the atmosphere of the staff at the BCV was. I heard "welcome home" several times and for the most part the staff was quite helpful. There were a few glitches: the phone was dead in one room; the DVD didn't work and the toilet didn't flush in one bathroom. Except for the toilet, however, the maintenance staff was quick to respond and fix the problem. The toilet required several calls and threats to contact supervisors, when it finally got fixed.
The Hoop-de-doo was good and we ate at the Clambake in the Cape May restaurant one evening, which was pretty good also. We especially liked the fact that we were only a 5-7 minute walk from Epcot and a short boat ride from MGM. This was really helpful for the "Illuminations" at Epcot and avoiding the usual crowds trying to escape through the front of the park at closing time.
The Stormalong Bay pools were nice, but we also enjoyed the quiet pools/hot tubs since they were closer to our room (#442). We could see the "Epcot" sign outside our window and some of the fireworks from the Illuminations. We were surprised by how quiet the rooms were. After having the Olympic jumping team stay in the room above us at Hilton Head, we weren't sure how well we would sleep, but the rooms seemed to be quite well insulated and very quiet.
Since there were 7 of us, we took the advice of others posting on this board in regard to transportation between the airport and Disney, by using Florida Tours. We chose the 10 passenger van and there was just enough room for us, luggage, and groceries for a week. The driver was prompt, courteous, and very understanding. On our return trip, we found the same to be true. We definitely prefer this means of transportation to using Mears Shuttle, where we had to handle all the luggage and fight with drivers and other passengers, as well as waiting while everybody else is dropped off. We really recommend Florida Tours!!
The only difficulties we had were with Disney and making reservations for dining. Every time I called I got a different answer about how to get seating. It seems that the left hand knoweth not what the right one is doing.
But overall, it was an excellent, stress-free trip, and we are looking forward to returning next year.
)
