Dec trip DLH or PP?

[Mickeyflower]

My family gave me a Disneyland trip for Christmas. I haven't been home at Christmas time since 2000. So, I've decided to go December of this year. Here are my questions.

1) Is the first week of December still AWESOMELY low crowds? (thinking of 12/6-12/10 or there about)

2) I've stayed at both DLH and PP. Are the premium view prices at DLH worth it? I've stayed in a Premium view room at PP, and it was a KILLER VIEW! I could see both parks unobstructed.

3) I stayed at DLH September 2009-pre-remodel. While the rooms were nice, I didn't notice a HUGE comfort difference between DLH & PP. Was the remodel really that mind blowing that it warrants an extra $600? I don't mind paying it if it's worth it. I know I'm the final judge of my dollar value, but opinions are encouraged and welcomed to help me decide.

Thats all I can think of right now. TIA!

 

[DizMe]

My family gave me a Disneyland trip for Christmas. I haven't been home at Christmas time since 2000. So, I've decided to go December of this year. Here are my questions.

1) Is the first week of December still AWESOMELY low crowds? (thinking of 12/6-12/10 or there about)

2) I've stayed at both DLH and PP. Are the premium view prices at DLH worth it? I've stayed in a Premium view room at PP, and it was a KILLER VIEW! I could see both parks unobstructed.

3) I stayed at DLH September 2009-pre-remodel. While the rooms were nice, I didn't notice a HUGE comfort difference between DLH & PP. Was the remodel really that mind blowing that it warrants an extra $600? I don't mind paying it if it's worth it. I know I'm the final judge of my dollar value, but opinions are encouraged and welcomed to help me decide.

Thats all I can think of right now. TIA!

This is very subjective, so I'll answer for myself and not try to guess what your preference might be.

So...I *personally* very much prefer DLH. I love the premium view rooms, but the reason I prefer the hotel is not because of the room or the view but the hotel itself. I just don't care that much for PPH because I like all of the amenities at DLH. I love the lush grounds, outdoor fireplace, Trader Sam's, the lobby decorations in each tower, pools, slides, etc. The dining options IMO are superior as well. HOWEVER, if the room and view are your main interests, then go with PPH. I think the premium view is superior at PPH and the rooms are comparable in size and comfort. I don't like the location, not because of the distance but because I don't like the busy street or walking through the parking area to get to the resort. It doesn't feel like you're "on property" to me. But saving $600 could certainly sway me

I've gone the first week in Dec. the last 2 years. It's definitely not quiet, but it's manageable. I think the next week is better, actually, because you're not dealing with the Candlelight Processional, which draws in big crowds.

ETA: What a great gift!! One thing you might consider if you're thinking of spending $600 more for DLH is to go with PPH premium concierge. That gives you access to the lounge for food and beverages.

 

[TheDoleWhipper]

1) That time is more crowded than in the past for sure, but not crazy busy, unless you go on the candelight processional weekend. The closer to Christmas in December you go, the more crowded it gets.

2) You cannot get really good park views at DLH, compared to the PPH. The premium views are either a high view of the pool, or a downtown disney view. There is no guarantee on which one you'll get. Instead, I recommend a deluxe view, which means a lower level view of the pool, if you want to spare yourself of a parking lot view.

3) The remodel has made a huge difference on the quality of the DLH. It is definitely a lot nicer than before, with bigger rooms and a modern disney flair. If you have not experienced it since the remodel, it would be worth it to see all the differences, IMO. DLH is a step above the PPH, and feels more like a resort.It really depends on your budget, but go for DLH if you can afford it.