Contemporary vs. Polynesian

[calap]

I was all ready to book with the Polynesian via AAA and called the Disney hotline. They have quoted me $300 less and with a better room and direct view of the MK castle. I am traveling with my husband and three kids (ages 11, 8 and 5) in October/November. Which one should I choose. Also still undecided about Plus Dining Package or Deluxe.. Ugh. .Please help...

 

[frdeb1999]

I'm assuming that the CR was the cheaper one quoted. It just depends on what your looking for in a resort. We love both resorts for different reasons. Although we always some how end up at the Poly since we love the pool, grounds, resturants, beach ect.. To us it's just more relaxing there. You can't go wrong with either.

 

[wilde_oscar]

um, the CR ain't gonna be any better or worse... and for $300 less you can buy me something nice as a present

 

[auntie]

I haven't stayed CR..no desire. Have stayed Poly. If the money isn't an issue, I'd go with the Poly. Contemporary just reminds me of a cold outdated building. I know it has it's fans..but obviously, I'm not one of them. The Poly has a relaxing, laid back tropical feel. Just what I'd prefer for my vacation if I were to choose between the two.

 

[mmmears]

We haven't stayed at the CR, but if you search these boards for photos of the MK view from the CR tower, they look amazing!!! A way better view than either the Poly or the GF.

Since they are both on the monorail, I would just choose whichever one appeals more to you.

 

[jeffbear]

CR pretty clearly ... just look at the pix ... has a more traditional hotel feel while Poly has that funky Island vibe and theme. At the end of the day it's a personal preference but for $300 my preferences can be bought ... or at least rented.

I've stayed at both resorts and there's a really good experience to be had at each. I've found my kids prefer the Poly, thus that's our own choice when we return to the World ... but my wife loves the CR and would rather stay there. Probably has to do with her love of tidiness. CR is definitely tidy.

 

[Taja]

I like both resorts, so it's really a matter of personal preference!

However, I can tell you I felt very tied to our ADRs when we had the regular dining plan. Imagine being tied to two or more ADRs each day or your visit with the DxDDP! Quite honestly, if I were a child, I would be resenting those ADRs pretty quickly! Actually, as an adult I wasn't too crazy about having them nearly every day! *LOL*

 

[KatMark]

We have stayed at both and prefer the Poly.

 

[CR Resort Fan 4 Life]

I have stayed at both Resorts and I would go with the Contemporary. I also assume you mean the Contemporary is the one that costs $300 less per night for the Magic Kingdom View, which is one reason why you should go with it. The other one is because it's the best possible view you can get in all of WDW.

 

[simonkodousek]

I vote for the Polynesian, but both resorts have their pros and cons... you should check out All Ears for more information and pictures.

 

[CR Resort Fan 4 Life]

calap,
Incase you have not seen one yet here is a picture of my familes Magic Kingdom View from our stay there in August 2006. So no matter what floor you would get in the Tower this is what it would look like.

 

[mousebouncer]

CR is our vote and we're going back this year! Plus, $300 is enough for me to be bought! Being in the tower is the easiest thing ever!

 

[ConcKahuna]

Both resorts are excellent, but the Polynesian is my favorite. The CR has amazing views and is walking distance to the MK, but the resort lacks the flavor and relaxing atmosphere of the Poly to me.

 

[ProudMommyof2]

If it were me I would go for that amazing view and $300 in my pocket! The two resorts are a monorail ride apart. The only thing you cannot enjoy at the resort you are not staying at is the pool. If prices were equal I would probably go for the Poly- but in your circumstances I say CR.

As far as dining, I think the only way the Deluxe dining is worth it is if you want an early character breakfast each am and a 2TS restaurant each eve. No way do I want to make 3 ADRs each day- just too constricting. Using the Deluxe for more than a couple of counter service meals is usually not cost effective. I can see booking an early am breakfast in the park of the day in order to be done when rope drop happens. I read on a prior thread that a poster would rather be at the park at 8:05am for a nice breakfast in the park prior to a 9am opening than arrive at 8:30am and wait in line with a crowd waiting for rope drop. Makes sense to me!

 

[princessdi]

Have stayed at both. Love the CR Theme park view- can watch fireworks from room at night. Poly is awesome too though. Tough call. My 6 year old son loves both!