Customer Service at Disney World?

[mousehockey37]

I agree. It is unfortunate that disney is not making the necessary investments to keep the parks running as smoothly as they were even ten years ago.

But obviously look what happens. Disney sees these people who want to take them for the max, so what's the easiest option? Keep the rides open. This is excluding the water rides that are down annually.

 

[adelaster]

To be perfectly honest and no offense meant at all this quote above is probably what set people off. Any time I've seen people talk about wanting compensation for something that is generally considered normal business it never goes well. It's not that people are personally attacking you it's anyone who comes off with a "you need to give me something" outlook. I don't (at least in my opinion) think people were attacking you but more or less reacting to this statement.

I know you weren't necessarily trying to come off that way but it's not exactly a great way to view your Disney vacation when the thought of "what will they give me if X happens" occurs. There are certain situations that do warrant compensation of some sort but park hoppers are a paid extra. It's more likely they would give you a "anytime fastpass+", as FastPass+ is included in park admission at this time, if something truly happened that warranted it (not getting the room you want or refurbs are not and both can be considered part of normal business).

I haven't stayed onsite yet, actually my Sep 2017 trip will be my first, so I understand concerns regarding wanting the room you want. That being said unless a hotel (and I'm speaking in general terms not just Disney) has a specific building you can book you won't be able to guarantee you'll get what you want and even if they did have a specific building you may get the side of the building you didn't want.

As for refurbs those have happened every single time I have gone to WDW. It sucks it's a big bummer but it happens and isn't something restricted to Disney at all.

I'm going to be real honest even though Disney is very expensive in comparison to other parks like Six Flags, etc what I get at WDW as a whole and Disney Springs is a place with so much to do. There are rides for all to enjoy, walk-through attractions, live-action shows, stage shows, light shows, firework shows, several hundred places to eat, shopping and a side perk for me the close proximity to Universal Studios which I also love to go to.

Yeah, I get that now. I didn't mean it the way people took it. I was giving examples of what might be possible- I really had no idea what normal was. It's much clearer now as to what things will be like there. Despite having tried to explain myself, some people still think I was just asking this question to see what I could get or that I have already been pushy with staff there. Neither is true, I was just curious as to what was normal. Actually, if anything, I am hearing mostly what I expected. I don't have any super grand expectations for the room either, I was merely curious about their system. I appreciate you sharing your experience!

It is a bummer that so many of the most noted events/rides won't be happening on our visit, but I'm confident now after reading these comments that there will still be plenty to enjoy. We aren't theme park people- this was more about experiencing the "disney bubble" I've read about and getting to see/be at the Magic Kingdom for ourselves. That's why it's so amusing that the one guy keeps calling me a "type" of person- we're super quiet and are the type that as comedian John Mulaney puts it, "you could pour hot soup in my lap and I'd apologize to you." I just tried really hard to "plan" this right, and it's clear I still missed some things.

 

[adelaster]

Personally I am disappointed in Disney customer service. But that's because I have been going to wdw practically since it has opened. Customer service used to be better. No doubt. Food used to be better. The parks used to be a better value. Now for what you get wdw is an expensive vacation. They have cut out so many little things that used to make it great. I could go on and on. But we still love wdw. We have learned to not expect as much. You will have a great time regardless.

Thanks for sharing. Honestly, I think I would be a lot less frustrated with the experience if they did have a routine maintenance schedule posted very far in advance. People seem to plan really far out for those parks, and I understand the rides get heavy use and need upkeep. Of course there will always be last minute issues/weather/etc. and I have no background in ride-repair- but it seems like there would be some kind of pattern for that sort of thing. I can't imagine people complaining if it was well published for the next eighteen months at a time or something to that effect. Could be wrong, but it's an interesting thought. Even something like showing what will be available/unavailable when you buy the ticket would be better than nothing. You select the day you are going for pricing reasons anyway, might as well share ride/event information too. We would probably still have to go when we are, but it would have been nice to know when we made the decision rather than find out after. Make sense?

 

[JustCallMeMommy]

I would try to go in with a positive attitude. You'll be OK with those particular closures. We would be a little disappointed at Big Thunder Mountain being closed, but Swiss Robinson Treehouse isn't a must-do, IMO. Small World would be on a must-do list if I made one for a first timer, but only because it is iconic. Most folks complain about getting the song stuck in their head.

When people talk about needing to get a specific room, that comes from experience. I think the Internet has done a disservice to newbies in this regard. That said, there are ways you can book to get a particular area. You could, for instance, book a Royal Room and be guaranteed the area of the hotel you want (Magnolia Bend). We wanted to be on the side of the building facing the lobby, so we booked the water view. Top floor is usually a noise thing, but I can tell you that being on the 2nd floor, we never heard a peep from another room.

Finally, keep in mind that there is no story to tell when people have a great experience. They don't come here and post about the perfect transportation experience or the meals where they were seated right on time. On our last trip, we were seated almost immediately every meal, so that made it stand out when there was one where we had to wait about 10 minutes.

 

[adelaster]

I would try to go in with a positive attitude. You'll be OK with those particular closures. We would be a little disappointed at Big Thunder Mountain being closed, but Swiss Robinson Treehouse isn't a must-do, IMO. Small World would be on a must-do list if I made one for a first timer, but only because it is iconic. Most folks complain about getting the song stuck in their head.

When people talk about needing to get a specific room, that comes from experience. I think the Internet has done a disservice to newbies in this regard. That said, there are ways you can book to get a particular area. You could, for instance, book a Royal Room and be guaranteed the area of the hotel you want (Magnolia Bend). We wanted to be on the side of the building facing the lobby, so we booked the water view. Top floor is usually a noise thing, but I can tell you that being on the 2nd floor, we never heard a peep from another room.

Finally, keep in mind that there is no story to tell when people have a great experience. They don't come here and post about the perfect transportation experience or the meals where they were seated right on time. On our last trip, we were seated almost immediately every meal, so that made it stand out when there was one where we had to wait about 10 minutes.

Thanks so much! This is encouraging.

 

[Srbright]

We're super quiet and are the type that as comedian John Mulaney puts it, "you could pour hot soup in my lap and I'd apologize to you." I just tried really hard to "plan" this right, and it's clear I still missed some things.

Did you see his bit about "I get nervous on airplanes"?.... "Oh!!!! And I'm sorry!"

What things are down at Magic Kingdom when you are going?

Stacy

 

[adelaster]

Did you see his bit about "I get nervous on airplanes"?.... "Oh!!!! And I'm sorry!"

What things are down at Magic Kingdom when you are going?

Stacy

His standups are one of my "comfort" views. The "OOOO I'm sorry" sketch is my husband's favorite.

We'll be missing the following (that I know of):

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
it's a small world
Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse
Celebrate the Magic

The Main Street Electrical Parade isn't happening either- I believe that may be for seasonal reasons.

For us, that leaves the following:

Peter Pan’s Flight
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
Under the Sea - Journey of the Little Mermaid
Prince Charming’s Regal Carousel
Seven Dwarves Mine Train
Splash Mountain
Jungle Cruise
3:00 Festival of Fantasy parade
Pirates of the Caribbean
Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room
Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover
9:00 Wishes fireworks

Possible:

Liberty Square Riverboat
Hall of Presidents
Tom Sawyer Island
Country Bear’s Jamboree
Monsters Inc, Laugh Floor

I was concerned that won't take a full day, but I'm encouraged by what I've read on here. The idea of commuting back and forth from the park didn't seem appealing, so I really wanted to find stuff to engage us for the full 12 hours. Hopefully we figure it out! I can't do scary, neither of us can do spinny/circles, and we have no interest in meeting characters. (Well, I'd probably get excited to see Chip & Dale or Gaston). My husband isn't keen on music/theatre as much as I am, so I tried to keep that in mind. As stupid as it sounds, I am worried the presidents and bears will be super spooky. (I'm scared of dolls, so maybe missing small world is for the best!) All five of the events not possible were on my original would-like-to-see list. I definitely expected a few things to be down, it was just unfortunate that so many of them come so recommended. Who knows, maybe we'll like one of the other rides so much we want to do it again!

 

[jenniy122]

98% of Cast Members are going to go above and beyond the expectations of average customer service. I don't know where you work or normally travel, but the things you're asking aren't reasonable with an entity as big as Disney. They can't give you anything for scheduled ride closings because they'd have to give it to upwards of 70,000 other people that are at Magic Kingdom those same days. They don't guarantee any room requests that aren't "buyable" like preferred view or princess/pirate rooms, because there's just too many variables. I promise you Disney releases their preplanned construction and closures as soon as they have them set, which won't be a year, or even 6 months in advance because things happen. The parks are under more demand than ever, more guests and longer hours are making more repairs necessary and less time to do them in. It's better business for Disney to close a ride more times for a shorter length of time than say closing Space Mountain for 9 months to overhaul it. With the specific regard to transit, every time you make a dining reservation you have to accept the terms, which specifically state to allow AT LEAST 1.5 hours to get to the restaurant and that they recommend getting there 15 minutes early, making it actually 1.75 hours before your reservation that you should leave.

With the rides you mention being open/closed, you could easily still spend a week in MK and not do it all/experience everything as it all changes constantly (heck, Monsters changes every single show thanks to the audience participation!). There's other things to do like the Pirates Adventure or Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom quests, pictures to take, time for eating, you'll want to look around the resort as there's so much themeing. I've spent an entire trip not even going to the parks, went without tickets, just to resort hop.

Besides reading around these boards (not to be mean, but maybe read more/post less if you feel as if you're being attacked - this is the internet where people lose their filter thanks to anonymity), the most useful and up-to-date site I know of is allears.net.

 

[Srbright]

I was concerned that won't take a full day, but I'm encouraged by what I've read on here. The idea of commuting back and forth from the park didn't seem appealing, so I really wanted to find stuff to engage us for the full 12 hours. Hopefully we figure it out! I can't do scary, neither of us can do spinny/circles, and we have no interest in meeting characters.

That is plenty to take up a day!

If you like theatre there is also the Welcome Show at rope drop, the Dapper Dans, the trolley show and citizens of Main Street.

The character m&g are pretty fun too.

Stacy

 

[adelaster]

98% of Cast Members are going to go above and beyond the expectations of average customer service. I don't know where you work or normally travel, but the things you're asking aren't reasonable with an entity as big as Disney. They can't give you anything for scheduled ride closings because they'd have to give it to upwards of 70,000 other people that are at Magic Kingdom those same days. They don't guarantee any room requests that aren't "buyable" like preferred view or princess/pirate rooms, because there's just too many variables. I promise you Disney releases their preplanned construction and closures as soon as they have them set, which won't be a year, or even 6 months in advance because things happen. The parks are under more demand than ever, more guests and longer hours are making more repairs necessary and less time to do them in. It's better business for Disney to close a ride more times for a shorter length of time than say closing Space Mountain for 9 months to overhaul it. With the specific regard to transit, every time you make a dining reservation you have to accept the terms, which specifically state to allow AT LEAST 1.5 hours to get to the restaurant and that they recommend getting there 15 minutes early, making it actually 1.75 hours before your reservation that you should leave.

With the rides you mention being open/closed, you could easily still spend a week in MK and not do it all/experience everything as it all changes constantly (heck, Monsters changes every single show thanks to the audience participation!). There's other things to do like the Pirates Adventure or Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom quests, pictures to take, time for eating, you'll want to look around the resort as there's so much themeing. I've spent an entire trip not even going to the parks, went without tickets, just to resort hop.

Besides reading around these boards (not to be mean, but maybe read more/post less if you feel as if you're being attacked - this is the internet where people lose their filter thanks to anonymity), the most useful and up-to-date site I know of is allears.net.

This is great information, thank you for taking the time to share. It's clear am/was ignorant of a lot of things about Disney when I started this thread. I would be interested to learn more about their refurbishment/upkeep tactics as I am fascinated by the popularity and long seasonal hours they manage with the age of some of the attractions.

As far as the transportation, I really hope it won't be that long. I guess we'll see, and know if a rental car would be better in the future.

I appreciate your feedback!

 

[Nancyg56]

Well, if this what even the fans are like, this totally answers my questions. Thanks ladies, although it would've been cool if you had done it without:


I may have gone into this not fully realizing everything that went into it, but at least I'm not mean. I was just asking honest questions.

So mods, you can close this thread or delete it, I don't need attacked on a Disney fan website.

I know that this has been addressed already, and I am not going to pile on. I do want to add that moving forward, if you want help, just ask. You want to know how to fill your day? Folks here will jump in and assist. YOu want help with touring strategy or dining options? Shoot! We are in! But do remember, that while none of us are experts, most of us have a pretty decent idea of how things work and wan to help.
However, if you do not like what is shared, remember that we are not attacking you. The feedback is so that you are not blindsided when you arrive.

I respectfully disagree with you. I didn't ask to be insulted, I asked for advice. I didn't ask for any compensation from anyone, I asked what the customer service expectations should be like as a first time visitor. Please refrain from trying to justify being mean to me for things I haven't even done, like trying to "get something for nothing." I can't reschedule the trip, and I probably won't be able to return. Just trying to make the best of a situation. So please, be kind, or leave me alone. Engaging in a fatuous argument on a Disney fan site is not something I ever wanted to do. I apologize if I rubbed some of you the wrong way, but I was in no way trying to scam anyone or get anything for free.

Okay, we understand. People who arrive in WDW already thinking that due to their own lack of information, Disney may offer something are apt to be very disillusioned. People are trying to help you avoid that situation. AS you move forward, people are going to give feedback that you may find difficult to hear, but it is nto to be mean. It is meant to be constructive because you have one day. ONE DAY> you do not want to spend it in guest relations, you can not make up that time.

This is good advice, thank you.

I detailed my personal experience to get an idea of what was normal- I had nothing to go off of prior to this thread. I wasn't hoping for that level of compensation. I was providing examples to get an idea of what to expect. Clearly that has been misinterpreted by multiple people, but c'est la vie.

Thanks for sharing your personal experience. All of the stories have given me a much better sense of what to expect. This is all brand new and I had no idea how the resorts worked (ie: your advice to pick a place where you would be happy regardless is awesome- unfortunately that wasn't in our price range) or how many of the parks attractions and events could be down at once. Live and learn!

The list of attractions down is not that bad, although if there was one in particular you wanted, well...it's a shame really.
In regards to the resorts, you do need to look at the amenities that wil make you happy. Disney will upgrade some folks, but it is at their convenience, not the guests, so that is why people suggest that you book what you want.

 

[maxiesmom]

But obviously look what happens. Disney sees these people who want to take them for the max, so what's the easiest option? Keep the rides open. This is excluding the water rides that are down annually.

And see how people complain when the rides are down for maintenance? It is a lose lose situation.

 

[adelaster]

And see how people complain when the rides are down for maintenance? It is a lose lose situation.

For the record, I am not complaining that rides are down. The complaint lies with what I felt to be a lack of clarity and advance notice on that subject. When I asked on the phone about maintenance during my visit, I was not told about any. After reading this thread I have a better understanding that this is the norm, and maintenance appears to be a last minute decision rather than planned in advance. It would be really interesting to hear about it from the inside- I simply don't know how it works. As a "new" person it seems unnecessarily confusing. I definitely think it could be better advertised. As mentioned above, I expected stuff to be down.

 

[maxiesmom]

For the record, I am not complaining that rides are down. The complaint lies with what I felt to be a lack of clarity and advance notice on that subject. When I asked on the phone about maintenance during my visit, I was not told about any. After reading this thread I have a better understanding that this is the norm, and maintenance appears to be a last minute decision rather than planned in advance. It would be really interesting to hear about it from the inside- I simply don't know how it works. As a "new" person it seems unnecessarily confusing. I definitely think it could be better advertised. As mentioned above, I expected stuff to be down.

Sometimes they can't always give advance notice.

 

[adelaster]

I know that this has been addressed already, and I am not going to pile on. I do want to add that moving forward, if you want help, just ask. You want to know how to fill your day? Folks here will jump in and assist. YOu want help with touring strategy or dining options? Shoot! We are in! But do remember, that while none of us are experts, most of us have a pretty decent idea of how things work and wan to help.
However, if you do not like what is shared, remember that we are not attacking you. The feedback is so that you are not blindsided when you arrive.



Okay, we understand. People who arrive in WDW already thinking that due to their own lack of information, Disney may offer something are apt to be very disillusioned. People are trying to help you avoid that situation. AS you move forward, people are going to give feedback that you may find difficult to hear, but it is nto to be mean. It is meant to be constructive because you have one day. ONE DAY> you do not want to spend it in guest relations, you can not make up that time.



The list of attractions down is not that bad, although if there was one in particular you wanted, well...it's a shame really.
In regards to the resorts, you do need to look at the amenities that wil make you happy. Disney will upgrade some folks, but it is at their convenience, not the guests, so that is why people suggest that you book what you want.

I appreciate this. The thing I took issue with were the personally insulting remarks, and the accusing me of scamming/stealing and/or terrible planning. The helpful has outweighed the negative on here though. In summation: feedback is fine. There is an endless amount of information online, and I did my best with what I could find. My hope is this thread will help someone else too.

This thread has been very informative. I actually don't want to spend any time at Guest Relations, which is why I asked about it. I'm a self-check-out lane kind of girl, and I was concerned that Disney will be more like the time I was forced to use a register at a Giant Eagle, and the cashier charged me $80 for a banana. Yes, that happened to me.

I'm hopeful now that it won't be as disasterous as I dreaded. Still nervous about how smoothly it will go, but more confident with the information gained here.

 

[ironz]

His standups are one of my "comfort" views. The "OOOO I'm sorry" sketch is my husband's favorite.

We'll be missing the following (that I know of):

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
it's a small world
Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse
Celebrate the Magic

The Main Street Electrical Parade isn't happening either- I believe that may be for seasonal reasons.

For us, that leaves the following:

Peter Pan’s Flight
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
Under the Sea - Journey of the Little Mermaid
Prince Charming’s Regal Carousel
Seven Dwarves Mine Train
Splash Mountain
Jungle Cruise
3:00 Festival of Fantasy parade
Pirates of the Caribbean
Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room
Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover
9:00 Wishes fireworks

Possible:

Liberty Square Riverboat
Hall of Presidents
Tom Sawyer Island
Country Bear’s Jamboree
Monsters Inc, Laugh Floor

I was concerned that won't take a full day, but I'm encouraged by what I've read on here. The idea of commuting back and forth from the park didn't seem appealing, so I really wanted to find stuff to engage us for the full 12 hours. Hopefully we figure it out! I can't do scary, neither of us can do spinny/circles, and we have no interest in meeting characters. (Well, I'd probably get excited to see Chip & Dale or Gaston). My husband isn't keen on music/theatre as much as I am, so I tried to keep that in mind. As stupid as it sounds, I am worried the presidents and bears will be super spooky. (I'm scared of dolls, so maybe missing small world is for the best!) All five of the events not possible were on my original would-like-to-see list. I definitely expected a few things to be down, it was just unfortunate that so many of them come so recommended. Who knows, maybe we'll like one of the other rides so much we want to do it again!

Just some thoughts on the rides, I'm guessing from the not liking 'scary' that Space Mountain is out for you. But there is Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin, which is fun and cute. The Riverboat is a nice relaxing ride, as is the train that surrounds MK. How about Philharmagic? That is one of my favorites-- relaxing and very Disney. You're not missing much (imho) if you miss the treehouse. You've still got a fun afternoon parade, and Wishes which will hopefully be a great way to wind down your MK day. Is Dumbo too spinny? It's classic.

As for the hotel room thing-- and this is not to you in particular, but I totally don't get the room requests that are super specific. I understand wanting a certain view or floor level, and sometimes, certain areas of a resort, but I don't get the option of selecting a specific room when I go on a vacation anywhere else--unless I'm in a local bed and breakfast, so I don't know why people expect that at a huge place like WDW. I sometimes wonder if people just don't like change, so they keep trying to recreate a past experience by trying to get the same room-- but what if there is another room that might even be better, but they keep locking themselves into their past experiences? I've been to WDW at least 30 times-- had suboptimal rooms 3 times-- one was because I booked a cheaper room type and just didn't get lucky, one was because I found out the pool activities were too loud for my taste (again-- I booked preferred and got it and just didn't like the proximity to the pool--others might love that), and the last was a wet spot on the floor that might have had something to do with the AC (that room we switched, with no problems). I don't make room requests. Every other trip has been just great, and several times, even better than expected.

 

[adelaster]

Just some thoughts on the rides, I'm guessing from the not liking 'scary' that Space Mountain is out for you. But there is Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin, which is fun and cute. The Riverboat is a nice relaxing ride, as is the train that surrounds MK. How about Philharmagic? That is one of my favorites-- relaxing and very Disney. You're not missing much (imho) if you miss the treehouse. You've still got a fun afternoon parade, and Wishes which will hopefully be a great way to wind down your MK day. Is Dumbo too spinny? It's classic.

As for the hotel room thing-- and this is not to you in particular, but I totally don't get the room requests that are super specific. I understand wanting a certain view or floor level, and sometimes, certain areas of a resort, but I don't get the option of selecting a specific room when I go on a vacation anywhere else--unless I'm in a local bed and breakfast, so I don't know why people expect that at a huge place like WDW. I sometimes wonder if people just don't like change, so they keep trying to recreate a past experience by trying to get the same room-- but what if there is another room that might even be better, but they keep locking themselves into their past experiences? I've been to WDW at least 30 times-- had suboptimal rooms 3 times-- one was because I booked a cheaper room type and just didn't get lucky, one was because I found out the pool activities were too loud for my taste (again-- I booked preferred and got it and just didn't like the proximity to the pool--others might love that), and the last was a wet spot on the floor that might have had something to do with the AC (that room we switched, with no problems). I don't make room requests. Every other trip has been just great, and several times, even better than expected.

We opted against the Buzz Lightyear ride after watching video of it. Dumbo and Space Mountain aren't possible. I really can't do spins. I'm on a medicine that causes nausea to begin with, but I also get migraines pretty easily. So jerky, flashy, and spinny stuff is just off the table.

The scary stuff is cause I'm a wuss, and I'm cool with that. I have a really vivid imagination, and even had night terrors as a baby. I need no help from outside sources!

We'll definitely check out the train and the riverboat.

As for the hotel stuff, the concern on my part mostly came from reading other people's reviews, touring plans, and advice. I'm not sure if I am allowed to post links here, but if you google search "port orleans riverside love hate" the first blog that came up was one that made me worry, and I saw it well after booking. There were other sites I looked at before choosing a resort, and many had glowing reviews of POR, but in hindsight, it was mostly for the Mansion buildings. As first timers, I wanted to be pretty centrally located within the resort. The mansion rooms and buildings look nice and relaxing, while the bayou stuff honestly creeps me out. All the photos I saw were of the mansion area, and I truly didn't understand that in booking a resort there is no guarantee of room type or location. When I called, I asked for a King, and they talked me into a Riverview? I went with it, although now I have no idea what to expect. I mentioned that I liked the Magnolia Bend buildings, and in my ignorance requested building 85. I didn't know any better. On the phone they said they couldn't take specifics like that, so I just accepted it. But online, you see a lot of people suggesting buildings and even specific room numbers. It left me confused, which is why I turned here. If we return I will definitely see if we could maybe make the Polynesian happen, or even staying offsite. I didn't want to book a royal guest room because of the decor, and also, we wanted a King bed. I still don't understand exactly what the "preferred" booking is that I've seen mentioned on here. The only preferred room option I saw was for queens and a pull down at POR. Honestly, at this point, I have no idea what I booked. I thought it was a King, but now that I look at the room types Riverview doesn't have that? Just hoping for a good experience that is at least a little romantic. A king bed with a nice view in the mansion area is ideal, and that's what I am hoping will happen. I'm scared to call back and ask for clarification because of the comments on here, so I guess I will try not to worry about it until we show up. The bayou rooms do make me feel really uneasy, and I really did want a King bed. (We don't have one at home, so on any "vacation" we take it is awesome luxury).

Your feedback on your 30! visits is very encouraging. I definitely feel you on the pool- we live in a condo and the pool is right outside, and it is not fun to have that noise and splashing constantly. Not to mention after-hours shenanigans and lack of parking.

The sheer size of Disney is extremely intimidating, and now that I have a better grasp of some of the other layers of information I just hope we made the right decision to try this at all! I am not someone who can afford to vacation often- once every 3-5 years, so it has a lot hanging on it when I do.

 

[Berlk]

As far as the transportation, I really hope it won't be that long. I guess we'll see, and know if a rental car would be better in the future.

Make sure you take a look on a map (My Disney Experience app has maps) as to where your resort is in relation to the park you want to go to as that will make a huge difference in how long it will take. For example (based on experience) it takes about 45 minutes to get from All Star Sports to Disney springs. Which is from the far end of Disney to the other end. It's super close to Blizzard Beach and HS though! If your resort is more central on the map, it'll will be a shorter trip. For us the Disney transportation is the best way to go. the busses come about every 15 minutes or so, which is pretty frequently, and they are able to drop pretty much at the front gates. If you were to drive to MK you would have to wait in lines at the parking tolls to enter and park (I believe that you get free parking at parks as a resort guest), then find a parking spot, then wait and board the tram/ferry that then takes you to the park gates where more or less the busses unload. So it would probably take just as long as using the Disney busses or even quicker. And then you don't have to pay for a rental car! In the past on days we have had a rental car we still took the Disney busses to the parks- and you don't have to worry about driving after a long day, or can have an adult beverage without having to worry! (You also won't have to navigate, worry about getting lost, or taking a wrong turn)

 

[Anthony1971]

Disney Customer service is very good--to the extent of fixing a real problem example would be the TV does not work in your in your room they will send someone to fix it rather quickly in most cases or give you another room and even have someone move your stuff -- after you pack. Tips is go to the front desk the person on the phone is not the front desk it is a call center... Treat the people at the front desk with respect Disney can and does go way beyond fixing real problems in a good number of cases. Most of what you state are expectations.... Disney in the end is a hotel, park, restaurant and supplies (sells) many other things. If you can think of a way to spend money Disney likely has it.... With that said expect your time there to be what you would you would expect from a well run Hotel, park etc Nothing more... Disney is great HUGE place with that said if you were to spend a week there every year for the next five years you would still have a hard time grasping what Disney is and has to offer.... You do not have time on your side and you will likely be very overwhelmed so... go to the bus stop about an 45-60 minutes before you want to be at the park get on the bus that says Magic Kingdom follow the crowds getting of the buses take your time walking around MK and enjoy the rides you get on.....expect wait times for the bus (enjoy the scenery at the resort) you will be in line to get in to the MK (enjoy the outside view it is very well done) and you will wait on line to get on rides (enjoy time talking to your family).... Get caught up in running to every ride and running with the crowds you will hate it..... Find a rocking chair outside one of the stores look off the sides (down the ally ways on Main St. mostly tables here) .. have seat for 10 minutes and it will be one your best memories.....

 

[Srbright]

... but if you google search "port orleans riverside love hate" the first blog that came up was one that made me worry, and I saw it well after booking. ... But online, you see a lot of people suggesting buildings and even specific room numbers. It left me confused, which is why I turned here. ... A king bed with a nice view in the mansion area is ideal, and that's what I am hoping will happen. ...

The sheer size of Disney is extremely intimidating, and now that I have a better grasp of some of the other layers of information I just hope we made the right decision to try this at all!

So, you went to touring plans where they have a bad review of the Aligator Bayou (AB) rooms AND they have the set up that allows you to fax in a specific room number request. That is causing a lot of your anxiety. Don't get my wrong I love Touring Plans and dutifully pay my subscription. But again, search for "port Orleans Andre" and go to his site.

As for the king bed, that seems to be your major want. Call back and see if you can switch from "river view" to "King" room type. You will not get a king bed under the "River View" category. You can get a king with a river/pool/garden/std view.

We are trying to stay in the mansion buildings this time for our trip next month because we have always stayed in AB.

Stacy