Concierge Etiquette

[LindaR]

Dreamflight99, I do agree with you!

DD16 and I don't fly that often (motion sickness - me) but when we do, it's in business or first class.........I have the same feelings there.........so often we see people who down one alcoholic beverage after another, after another......all because it's "free"?????????? Hello! Notice the difference in airfare?????????

I've just read soooo many posts here on the DIS about folks who ARE using concierge to sub for meals. They are snacks, not meals.

To each his own! If they are not embarassed by their behavior oh well.

 

[Northern Lights]

Last year, I sneaked (snuck?)....okay surreptitiously made my way into the Poly concierge wearing nothing but a robe and the horse accidentally came out of the barn. I forgot to bring an extra change of clothes with me from the HoJo and I didn't want to get a rash from walking around in a wet suit. Anyway, I was famished after all the swimming and shoving little munchkins out of the way so I could better enjoy the volcano slide. Of course, my money was in the extra change of clothes otherwise I would have paid for my own food. Luckily I did remember to bring my Big Gulp cup so I didn't take any soda from the lounge.

Fortunately there had been significant shrinkage from the pool so only a few people noticed. Sorry if I offended anyone here that day.

 

[DizBelle]

Fortunately there had been significant shrinkage from the pool so only a few people noticed. Sorry if I offended anyone here that day.

 

[BostonRob]

I can always tell whenever traveling in first class, the persons whom are there on a freebie, or promotional upgrade. They DEMAND special service, and readily abuse the offerings. These people act as if the world revolves around them, and become incensed if something isn't attended to immediately. They blatently detract from the enjoyment of those around them, as well as the frustrated flight attendants. It's as if they lack a social conscience.

Well dreamflight, I was with you right up until the end. But that last generalization went a bit too far. My wife and I won't pay for first class or concierge level rooms. When we are lucky enough to get a freebie or promotional upgrade, we remain civil. So, you see, you can't always make a direct correlation between the ability/willingness to pay for first class accomidations and common decency, consideration and manners.

 

[travlnman1]

I have recently stayed at the Beach Club Concierge.
I posted here when I got back and my heading was like "IS CONCIERGE CHEAPER THAN THERAPY?" We had no food issues but we did have people issues. Every time we came and went, the same people were sitting with the CM's telling them their whole lifes story. AT breakfast time they spent all morning drinking their coffee with the CM at the CL desk. When we came home in the afternoon, they were sitting there having their wine with them. I felt if I were intruding on their conversation if I needed to ask for something.

SO....do some people stay concierge level because their lonely?

(Boy, that last sentence sounded like a Carrie statement from Sex and the City!)

 

[Goofy'sFriend]

Once I saw the man reach his giant hand (lord knows where it had been) into the bowl of pretzels.....the bowl with the large serving spoon , I decided not to stay concierge anymore. This is probably why I don't really like buffets, but at the concierge table it seems more likely for people to "touch" the food. Unfortunately, this man was "fondling" the pretzels. No more food put into bowls, even if a giant serving spoon is provided, for my family anymore.

It was nice to try once, but I wouldn't do it again if I had to pay extra.

 

[Threehearts]

I don't care how people get to a premium level whether it be first class air tickets or concierge level at hotels. Good manners have everything to do with how you were raised or personal determination to overcome adversity and learn good manners on your own. Certainly wealthy people can be boorish, drunken and slovenly. If a family is well-off or not is not any concern of mine. I only wish that everyone in concierge could try their personal best. Ask a CM if you're not sure of a policy. It's the intelligent person who has the courage to ask instead of forging ahead without the lay of the land. I suppose it's just trying to be mindful of others sharing the space and putting yourself in their place. I would like to end by saying that I missed Northern Lights in his altogether but feel less upset knowing there was an equipment malfunction. I'd stay out of the pool and jump into the hot tub before going to the lounge, Northern Lights. If you're going to put on a show, we concierge fans want it to be WORTH IT!! Threehearts

 

[Cinderella37]

Well dreamflight, I was with you right up until the end. But that last generalization went a bit too far. My wife and I won't pay for first class or concierge level rooms. When we are lucky enough to get a freebie or promotional upgrade, we remain civil. So, you see, you can't always make a direct correlation between the ability/willingness to pay for first class accomidations and common decency, consideration and manners.

Unfortunately, I know many people who fly first class, can well afford it, and act just as you describe. The problem with individuals acting this way, whether on a plane or in a concierge lounge, is the fact that common courtesy and decency seem to be going the way of the dinosaurs. Lack of money nor extreme wealth has no correlation with class; I've known people who lived paycheck to paycheck that have outclassed many wealthy people I know. It all boils down to respecting others and using manners.

Manners seem to have been replaced by a selfish attitude and a "who cares as long as it makes me happy" motto in many arenas, from the workplace to the cabin of an airplane. Ignorant guests in the concierge lounge may not be staying in concierge to use it as a meal plan for financial reasons, but because they're gluttons who feel entitled. They may actually be very wealthy. We saw a family who personified this at the BWI last July. Food is ancillary for us; we enjoy the pre-planning aspect, as well as the restricted floor access. We do eat some of the offerings, but are appalled sometimes at the volumes of food people consume, as well as the messes left behind. I won't even mention the nightware we've seen. We still love concierge, though, and will continue to utilize it. The happenings (few and far between) make for entertaining conversations and memories.

 

[DisneyFans4]

There is nothing wrong for those who made the statement that they stay concierge for the food, it's probably one of the big reasons why we do because it's nicer to have that available to us in the hotel rather than having to go out somewhere for it.
I think what some of us are trying to point out is, DON'T ABUSE IT. If you see your child sticking their hands into everything and you see it and stop it then that is what we would hope you would do, I know I would. But believe me, there are parents who don't care what their kids are doing and they are probably encouraging it. There is nothing worse than seeing a family of children who run in from the pool into the lounge dripping wet and grabbing at the noon snacks. Like I would want that now???
It's obvious that the food and beverage offerings have been cut back because of this. Trust us who have seen it first hand, some people intend on making a complete meal with the offerings and right in front of the other guests!! I too have also seen guests bring in other people who aren't even staying at the hotel into the lounge. I've seen guests who aren't staying concierge just walk up to the doors and push them open, since it is so easy to too, and just help themselves to the lounge.
I've have always complained but from reading these posts it seems like management is just looking the other way and it's a real shame.

 

[mycropht]

Well, I guess people will be rude no matter what.

I personally see NOTHING wrong with enjoying the food as part of the concierge experience. I'm a little gobsmacked at some of the posts on this thread that imply that the food offerings are to be considered little more than polite decorations to be glimpsed pleasingly. OF COURSE some people go for the food. The thing is, there are people who are "foodies" in the same way that there are people who are "shoppers" or "golfers" or whathaveyou.

That being said, I do think that it can be taken to extremes, and some families can be over the top. (think coolers, takeaway cartons, etc.) I still maintain that peerless Concierge service should include keeping the food stocked. You may compare it to Shoney's all you like, but that is a hallmark of good service. Why? Well, because in trying to teach a lesson to one family of 5 who is using the Concierge service as their meal provider, leaving the food unstocked "punishes" the other guests who have also paid to enjoy the priveledge and leaves people with a compromised view of Disney. I imagine that many would not be as put out by the rudeness of others if they themselves weren't unduly inconvenienced.

 

[QueenOfCelts]

Well, I guess people will be rude no matter what.

I personally see NOTHING wrong with enjoying the food as part of the concierge experience. I'm a little gobsmacked at some of the posts on this thread that imply that the food offerings are to be considered little more than polite decorations to be glimpsed pleasingly. OF COURSE some people go for the food. The thing is, there are people who are "foodies" in the same way that there are people who are "shoppers" or "golfers" or whathaveyou.

That being said, I do think that it can be taken to extremes, and some families can be over the top. (think coolers, takeaway cartons, etc.) I still maintain that peerless Concierge service should include keeping the food stocked. You may compare it to Shoney's all you like, but that is a hallmark of good service. Why? Well, because in trying to teach a lesson to one family of 5 who is using the Concierge service as their meal provider, leaving the food unstocked "punishes" the other guests who have also paid to enjoy the priveledge and leaves people with a compromised view of Disney. I imagine that many would not be as put out by the rudeness of others if they themselves weren't unduly inconvenienced.

Bravo! I couldn't agree with you more.

Instead of deciding that other guests are beneath you, or weren't raised as well, or have less money or class, etc. etc. etc., why not just ask for more of what you want................when I pay for a character buffet, I expect to eat what I want and all that I want (and that's only $20 bucks) and when I pay for concierge ($$$) I expect no less - in addition to the other perks..

 

[Lewisc]

All of the posters who say don't book concierge for the food don't tell you not to enjoy the food. Just warning people that it's not a meal plan, don't count on the appetizers as being a dinner replacement. They also want to let people know if they're counting on being able to get enough food to completely justify the price difference they'll either be disappointed or wind up being rude by taking way too much.

I agree it's up to the staff to make sure the food is properly replenished. If someone is taking too much the concierge staff has the choice of either saying something, or not. Depriving other guests really isn't a solution. I suspect, or at least hope, the horror stories we're reading are the exception and not the rule. Perhaps items like the chocolate strawberries shouldn't be self service.

Well, I guess people will be rude no matter what.

I personally see NOTHING wrong with enjoying the food as part of the concierge experience. I'm a little gobsmacked at some of the posts on this thread that imply that the food offerings are to be considered little more than polite decorations to be glimpsed pleasingly. OF COURSE some people go for the food. The thing is, there are people who are "foodies" in the same way that there are people who are "shoppers" or "golfers" or whathaveyou.

 

[QueenOfCelts]

All of the posters who say don't book concierge for the food don't tell you not to enjoy the food. Just warning people that it's not a meal plan, don't count on the appetizers as being a dinner replacement.

Most of the posts on this thread did not come across as a warning at all - they came across as very pretentious and insulting. OH and for being so concerned with rudeness to others, let's not forget how RUDE some of the posts were.

I agree with everyone who thinks we should all try to be considerate of others and well mannered......but that includes EVERYONE, even self-proclaimed snobs and why in the world would anyone thinks it's somehow "cool" to be a snot, I mean snob.

Honestly, when I am at WDW, somebody has to do something seriously awful to get my attention......we are all too busy having fun!

 

[Lewisc]

Most of the posts on this thread did not come across as a warning at all - they came across as very pretentious and insulting. OH and for being so concerned with rudeness to others, let's not forget how RUDE some of the posts were.

Either I missed some of the posts or I have thicker skin. I thought most of the posts were describing the actions of, I hope, the very few families that abuse the system. Taking overflowing plates of food back to their rooms for friends that aren't staying concierge for example. I find it interesting that people who travel alot find more of the rude behavior at Disney concierge compared with other properties. Do you really think guests should be entering the lounge with bare feet and pajamas?

Guests looking to concierge strictly for food savings would probably be better off booking non-concierge and adding the MYM food plan or just buying snack food in a grocery stop. I think that's sound advice and not being rude. People trying to take enough food to justify the price difference are going to either be disappointed or come across as pigs, overflowing plates of food that's intended to be appetizers.

NOT in this thread but people have posted saving enough money on food to pay for the price difference. Those were the people who took cases of bottled water and took dinner sized portions of food that's intended to be appetizers. Now you generally can't get bottled water to go.

 

[QueenOfCelts]

Either I missed some of the posts or I have thicker skin. I thought most of the posts were describing the actions of, I hope, the very few families that abuse the system. Taking overflowing plates of food back to their rooms for friends that aren't staying concierge for example. I find it interesting that people who travel alot find more of the rude behavior at Disney concierge compared with other properties. Do you really think guests should be entering the lounge with bare feet and pajamas?

Guests looking to concierge strictly for food savings would probably be better off booking non-concierge and adding the MYM food plan or just buying snack food in a grocery stop. I think that's sound advice and not being rude. People trying to take enough food to justify the price difference are going to either be disappointed or come across as pigs, overflowing plates of food that's intended to be appetizers.

NOT in this thread but people have posted saving enough money on food to pay for the price difference. Those were the people who took cases of bottled water and took dinner sized portions of food that's intended to be appetizers. Now you generally can't get bottled water to go.

Here we go, as usual. I never once said that people can behave anyway they want at WDW or otherwise. My point was simply this: why complain about how rude it is to take take too much food or water, etc and then be just as rude with your post. Pointing out that you shouldn't budget less money for food is one thing but did you read the original post? It wasn't about helping people at all, it was about complaining. Let's not try and make it something it's not. I don't know how thick skinned either one of us is, to be honest, and I am not sure if you read every post in this VERY LONG thread, but if you go through them, I think you will see what I mean.

 

[Lewisc]

Here we go, as usual. I never once said that people can behave anyway they want at WDW or otherwise. My point was simply this: why complain about how rude it is to take take too much food or water, etc and then be just as rude with your post. Pointing out that you shouldn't budget less money for food is one thing but did you read the original post? It wasn't about helping people at all, it was about complaining. Let's not try and make it something it's not. I don't know how thick skinned either one of us is, to be honest, and I am not sure if you read every post in this VERY LONG thread, but if you go through them, I think you will see what I mean.

I only thought one or two posts went a little over the edge. I agree a few posts were somewhat rude but in general I thought this thread is much better than mug and pool hopping threads. I think the vast majority of posts were fair.

The vast majority of posts in this thread made valid points regarding inappropriate dress and hogging of food.

Nothing wrong with enjoying the food but I've read too many people who think they'll save enough money on food and drinks to justify the extra room expense. The new Disney dining plan is a much better way to go for those guests.

I read the posts more for the entertainment value. I suspect, or at least hope, the behavior described is rare.

 

[ducklite]

I have stayed in conceirge once (not my choice the reservation was made by a friend) I didnt know we were staying conceierge until we get thier.... I personally did not like it....

only time I would stay again would Possibly be at the AKL for the sunrise safari

I just dont see the point of paying the extra money for the food offerings (thats the only difference i saw except for the Card key to the Special Floor)

Actually for most of us who regularly stay CL, the food offerings are not the reason we do so. We prefer the private check-in, comfortable lounge, amenities such as robes in teh room and automatic turndown service, assistance with booking dining reservations and special events, the list goes on.

You are right, if you're looking at CL as a meal plan, you're better off saving your money. But if you don't mind paying for additional service, than it might be something to consider. That's why WDW offers so many types of lodging from budget minded value resorts with minimal amenities to exquisite suites at the deluxe resorts with personalized service. That way everyone is happy!

Anne

 

[cmonroe]

....... I finally asked the parents if they thought what their children were doing was appropriate. I got a look, but they did get on the elevator and leave pretty quickly.

LOL.... That's great! I have two kids and that would drive me nuts to see them doing that!

You're from Saugus, Mass. Have you lived there long? My good friend's family is from Saugus.

 

[dreamflight99]

Actually for most of us who regularly stay CL, the food offerings are not the reason we do so. We prefer the private check-in, comfortable lounge, amenities such as robes in teh room and automatic turndown service, assistance with booking dining reservations and special events, the list goes on.
Anne

AMEN. This is exactly what I posted above. You have hit the proverbial NAIL on the HEAD, Anne. CL floors are usually much more quiet too (IMHO). Robes, slippers, turndown...all such a integral part of the services associated with this feature. It's the same reason I enjoy flying FC...certainly NOT for the food, service, etc. But mainly for the "peace and quiet" of the small, private & comfortable cabin area. No kids "kicking" the back of my seat, or staring over the shoulder of the person in front of me (no heavily scented oils doused over children) . Since I consider my flight as much more than mere transportation (it's an essential part of my vacation experience), it begins my holiday off on the right foot. Staying in Concierge does exactly the same thing...and usually insures a wonderful & memorable visit! It's always nice to know others feel the same, and do not stay concierge "merely" for the buffet-food type offerings.

 

[uva185]

It's the same reason I enjoy flying FC...certainly NOT for the food, service, etc. But mainly for the "peace and quiet" of the small, private & comfortable cabin area. No kids "kicking" the back of my seat, or staring over the shoulder of the person in front of me (no heavily scented oils doused over children) . Since I consider my flight as much more than mere transportation (it's an essential part of my vacation experience), it begins my holiday off on the right foot. Staying in Concierge does exactly the same thing...and usually insures a wonderful & memorable visit! It's always nice to know others feel the same, and do not stay concierge "merely" for the buffet-food type offerings.

I agree! Although it certainly is nice to get a meal in first class when there is no meal served in coach!