Caribbean Beach vs Port Orleans French Quarter

[CaliforniaDreaming]

I'm currently planning our trip for next year. This is what I have planned:

- 1 night at a MCO hotel (arriving around midnight)
- 4 nights at the BoardWalk Villas (2BR)
- 2 nights at Caribbean Beach or Port Orleans French Quarter (2 rooms)
- 5 nights at the Villas at Wilderness Lodge (2BR)

We've never stayed at a moderate before. I like the idea of CBR because it is close to EPCOT and the rooms are the largest. I like POFQ because it was renovated 2 years ago, and it is a compact resort.

So, what do you all think?

Thanks!

 

[staci]

Would you use the sitdown restuarant? There is not one at POFQ; you have to walk to riverside.

However, I like the boats to DTD at night from the FQ; it is a nice break from the buses.

 

[foolishmortal]

I stayed at CBR a couple of weeks ago and POR Riverside a few years ago..no contest CBR, that is from my wife, my ds and myself. Just overall nicer. Like the PP said though the boat from POR to DTD is awesome, but I wouldn't base it off only that, unless you are planning DTD those 2 days already. The CBR busses ran faster than POR, and they were not very packed.

 

[DisneyJen0504]

I voted CBR because I prefer the theming of it to PO but I dont think you can go wrong with either resort.

 

[safetymom]

CBR underwent a refurbishment also and reopened Dec. 2002. They closed down the resort while they did it.

 

[Pixiedust34]

I voted for POFQ. You'll have 2 themed pools (you are permitted to use the pool at POR) instead of one. Plus, you can use boat transportation to Downtown Disney. POFQ is also smaller than CBR, so you might be closer to the bus stops/food court/pools.

 

[CaliforniaDreaming]

Thanks so much for the opinions! Anyone else have anything to add?

 

[Lewisc]

If you'll have a car I'd consider 2 nights at one of the Universal Hotels or try your luck getting the Gaylord Palms with PL.

You might get lucky and get a good promotion at the AKL.

I'm going to give CSR a shot next trip. The pool and restaurants look better than the other moderates. CBR may be close to Epcot but since you're not going to be walking it doesn't really matter.

I guess this is my way of saying none of the above.

 

[CaliforniaDreaming]

Yeah, we will have a car. Gaylord Palms on priceline would be an option (we got it last year for $85). If a great rate came out for AKL, I'd go for it (but, with $70 off from BestRate, it would still be $179 standard view - a little high compared to last year getting $139 for WL courtyard view). I'm even thinking about trying to get one garden wing room at the Contemporary, it'll be a little tight, but for 2 nights it would be a good way to get to try out the renovated CR. I'd really like to try the Polynesian, too, but the probable $299 "Best Rate" doesn't look too appealing for a garden view. I did check Hard Rock, but for $230+ per night and then buying tickets for Universal, I think we'll pass. You really do have me thinking of lots of options now! lol

 

[hart6066]

Those are great rates for AKL and Fort Wilderness--do you mind if I ask how you found them? What time of year will you be going? We'll be staying our second time at POFQ next week, and even though I only looked briefly at Carribean Beach, I think POFQ is much nicer. I did not like that you had to take the bus all over Carribean Beach, and I like to smaller resort feel. Good luck!

 

[CaliforniaDreaming]

It was an Annual Passholder Rate at WL. But, now that they have the Best Rate Program, it looks like they give a set $70/night discount off the deluxes.