Best method to communicate special requests to the resorts?

[eroller]

Well, I made the plunge and booked the GF (still getting used to the abbreviations and acronyms) for October 14, 15 and 16. I got an incredible rate since I work for an airline, although I still feel it is quite expensive.

It's been years since I've been to WDW (10 or so!), but I used to go as a child every year in the 70's! We always stayed at the Polynesian or Contemporary (they were the only resorts besides the Golf Resort) and I have the fondest memories of them (especially the Poly). I love Disney, but my love of ships and cruises has kept me away from WDW. This summer marked my 50th cruise, so I decided it was time to go back to Disney. I'm still going through a little sticker shock at how expensive everything is. Four days at Disney (without food) is costing quite a bit more than a seven day cruise. Oh well, I know how well Disney does everything, so I know I will not be disappointed. My partner has never been to WDW, so I know this will be quite an experience. I also booked reservations at the Polynesian Luau (which I loved as a child.... and hope I still find it enchanting) and a Magic Kingdom behind the scenes tour. I think I will really enjoy this.

We are two adults (no children) in our mid-30's, so any expert inside advise would be greatly appreciated!

Ok, on to my question. I do have some special requests for my room at the GF after doing some research. I know nothing is guaranteed, but my requests are (in priority order):
*non-smoking
*Boca Chica Building
*Pool view or better!
*Top floor - dormer room
*King size bed

Now I've heard conflicting stories of the most appropriate and effective way of communicating these desires. Some say to have the CRO enter the comments, and others insist that faxing the room assigner at the hotel directly is the best way. Some even say to do both, while I've also heard to only do one. As everyone seems to have so much experience on these boards, I would love to hear your feedback with these methods, and how good your success rate was.

I am traveling during a very off peak time, and I would think this could only help my chances of at least receiving some of my special requests.

Thanks for any insight you can provide, and I look forward to your comments!

Best regards,
Ernie Roller
Atlanta

 

[CaliforniaDreaming]

I've stayed at the GF a number of times, and I would say your best bet is to list the things on your reservation with CRO and hope for the best! I rarely get my room requests honored - I've tried all kinds of things (calling, faxing, etc), and I get rooms I like assigned at check-in (the CM who checks you in will need to call the room controller, and then the room controller will call the CM back with the room number).

Have a great trip, the GF is an awesome (and my favorite) resort!

 

[Gary M]

I have stayed at the GF 8 times and have stayed in Boca Chica all eight trips. I faxed my request three days ahead of arrival and have had good luck with what I asked for.

 

[eroller]

Originally posted by Gary M
I have stayed at the GF 8 times and have stayed in Boca Chica all eight trips. I faxed my request three days ahead of arrival and have had good luck with what I asked for.

WOW, 8 times at the GF! I've never even stayed there and I'm jealous!

I feel confident in my request of the Boca Chica building if you have enjoyed it eight times. I have not heard that this building was any better, I just studied the GF resort map and decided this building looked like the best suited for my personal taste! A little removed from the main building, but close to the water and pools.

Thanks for all the info!

Ernie Roller
Atlanta

 

[kdibattista]

http://wdwig.com/cro1.htm

 

[eroller]

Originally posted by kdibattista
http://wdwig.com/cro1.htm

Thanks for the link! Very interesting, and I will follow the advise and fax my request four days prior to my arrival.

It's great that they even give a sample letter..... very informative.

Best regards,
Ernie Roller
Atlanta