CBR vs. Dolphin pros and cons?

[KatF]

What can anyone tell me about CBR?
-Is the transportation just horrible? Is it dog-eat-dog for a seat on the buses? I was spoiled last year at OKW with the non-crowded and very reliable bus service.
-How are the pool crowds at CBR?
-Can you walk to the OPR?
-Is it just plain great or just plain goolish?

I am totally confused...

As is stands right now (no great deals for the average Janes), I just can't afford OKW. I could however get the Swan/Dolphin with the teacher's rate - great rate, but they are soooo big, soooo crowded, and I fear the shared grotto pool would be standing room only. Plus...the pool is a country mile from most of the rooms. This is not a great thing with an 8 year old.

I stayed at the Dolphin 3 years ago and was less than pleased with the experience...it felt very hotel-like rather than resort-like. Other circumstances made the whole Disney trip a bad one, so I'm sure my opinion of the Dolphin was tainted. So far the biggest pro to the Swan/Dolphin is the proximity to Epcot and MGM. That is a big plus.

So, as you can see, I already have my own list of pros and cons started. I would love some more input and advice.

 

[hulabird]

Check out the CBR FAQ thread that was started by safetymom for a pretty complete picture (and digital pics) of CBR.

I have stayed at CBR many times and it is one of my favorite resorts. You will not be disappointed if you choose CBR. It is very picturesque and tropical. The rooms are pretty nice as well and seem bigger to me than some of the deluxes I have stayed in. The bus service has been excellent any time we have gone and the food court is quite decent. The location is not as great as being near the boardwalk as the S&D are, but the drive over to BW is less than 5 min, so you can always visit. By the way, the walk to OPR is about 3-5 min if you are in Jamaica or Aruba, and even quicker if in Trin North or Martinique buildings that are right next to it.

Personally, I would always choose a Disney property off a non-Disney, but I'd choose S or D anyday over some other hotel that is not related to Disney at all.

But rest assured, CBR is a great resort and I and many people on this board HIGHLY recommend it!

Have a great time no matter which you choose!

 

[safetymom]

I agree with Hulabird. CBR is a beautiful resort. I went over on Saturday just to take pictures and have lunch.

You truly feel like you have escaped to the islands. I saw plenty of buses waiting at the stops for people also.

I am sure the Dolphin is nice but I don't think you can beat the atmosphere at CBR.

 

[safetymom]

I agree with Hulabird. CBR is a beautiful resort. I went over on Saturday just to take pictures and have lunch.

You truly feel like you have escaped to the islands. I saw plenty of buses waiting at the stops for people also.

I am sure the Dolphin is nice but I don't think you can beat the atmosphere at CBR.

The main pool is never that crowded. There is also quiet pools in each of the villages so there are plenty of places to swim.

The walking to OPR is not long. It is an enjoyable walk with plenty to look at.

Trinidad North and Martinique are the preferred locations if you don't like to walk.