Deluxe Monorail Recommendations

[VS85]

I've been away from WDW since 2012 because I discovered Disney Cruising! Instead of cruising this July, my BF and I decided to spend the week at WDW (timings of the cruises aren't working out for us). We want to stay at one of the deluxe monorail resorts, as there is currently a 30% discount on some of the rooms. Trying to decide between Poly, GF, and Contemporary (BLT, preferably). We are planning on doing a LOT of relaxing (ie - hitting parks in the early evenings to walk around when it isn't so hot and crowded, do a couple of rides, eat, watch parades/fireworks). Otherwise we want to lounge by the pools, enjoy the different resorts, and just spend time with each other (we are long distance and seeing each other again after 5 and a half long months!). My biggest "want" out of my hotel is a nice, bright, large-ish room where we can relax, sleep in, order room service, and just hang and have a little romance. I would love a room with a balcony and a view of some type of water body. Don't have a problem exploring to check out lounges and restaurants at other resorts, so it's not like I need 100% of the amenities at the resort I am staying at. I have stayed at the GF and enjoyed it, but wondering if I should try something different. I also stayed in a standard room and I felt a little cramped with 2 beds (stayed with a friend so we needed 2 beds, for this trip we will request 1 king). I believe the Poly is having construction on one of the pools (I could be wrong), and because we're going right in the middle of July, I don't know if that would be too much of a limitation. The decor and size/space of the rooms at BLT look the most appealing to me, but would like to get some personal experiences and recommendations. We are hoping to book tonight or tomorrow, so your responses are greatly appreciated!

 

[mkla2015]

I love BLT so I may be a little biased but I would suggest looking into a studio for you and your BF- 1 queen bed and with the sofa sleeper shut I think the 2 of you would have enough room. There are great dining options at the Contemporary or just take the monorail to the Poly or GF for more dining.

 

[kerri0616]

My dream resort is CR. Before you book BLT, I would check square footage of CR rooms vs BLT. I believe that CR are larger than standard rooms in BLT. Someone may prove me wrong because I am not an expert on these resorts! Your trip sounds wonderful.

 

[DISNEY1975]

I prefer CR also. Chef Mickeys does not serve lunch, so the resort is nice and quiet during the day. Great for being by the pool or relaxing around the resort. I love the Poly theme, but WAY to many guests there at all times. Its difficult to get a seat by the pool, lobby area is always crowded with guests waiting for the dining reservations, parking is a nightmare if your coming back from a non monorail park in a rental, beach is crowded in the evenings for fireworks and guests coming from the dinner show and Ohanas. GF for me it too much like resorts, or homes even, in my state home of MA. The rooms are very similar to my own and I just dont feel like Im on vacation Lovely resort though, but it doesnt quite scream that Im at Disney!

 

[Babsy]

Personally, I wouldn't stay at the Poly right now because of the construction. Some people aren't bothered by that, though, so you have to decide if it is an issue for you. The east pool is due o be under construction while you would be there. Other minor jobs may be in the works as well, but that is an unknown at present.

The GF, as you know, has large bright rooms that meet your criteria. With a king room with lagoon or TPV, you would have a lovely room in a gorgeous resort with a great view form your balcony.

The other option, the CR, is also amazing. If you do BLT, I am not familiar with the resort (we don't do DVC). The regular rooms are huge comfortable and tastefully decorated. The patio doors to the balcony showcases either an incredible view of Bay Lake or a panoramic view of the entire MK area.

It is really difficult to choose between the two fabulous options. I love both! The pools are arguably better at the GF, but the pool at the CR is never crowded and has lovely peaceful views over Bay Lake. Very serene. I was surprised by how much I enjoyed time at this very simple pool area.

Bottom line: because you have already stayed at the Gf and are looking for something new, I would vote for a tower TPV room at the CR. If possible, book CL for a really sublime experience.

Good luck!

 

[VS85]

Thanks everyone! We are going to go with a tower room with a bay lake view at the CR. I didn't realize that BLT was only for DVC when I originally posted (shows you how long I've been away from the parks!). I know this sounds weird but I would much rather have a water view than a castle view... There's something about staring at water that takes me to my happy place. Thanks so much for your input... Definitely made this decision a lot easier Can't wait... Only 64 more days!

 

[Babsy]

Thanks everyone! We are going to go with a tower room with a bay lake view at the CR. I didn't realize that BLT was only for DVC when I originally posted (shows you how long I've been away from the parks!). I know this sounds weird but I would much rather have a water view than a castle view... There's something about staring at water that takes me to my happy place. Thanks so much for your input... Definitely made this decision a lot easier Can't wait... Only 64 more days!

Sorry if I gave a wrong impression, but BLT is not only for DVC members. You can book with WDW or rent points from a DVC member. We just don't do DVC because we prefer a reg hotel room.

 

[VS85]

Good to know Babsy! Turns out I am flip flopping right around and booking a CL Deluxe King at the Grand Floridian. We found a rate that we are comfortable with and I couldn't pass up the opportunity for CL at the GF But I'm excited to visit the Contemporary... we booked dinner at California Grill for our first night in the World, timed just right to catch Wishes!