DVC Mike Live from BWV/SSR (3/7-3/15/09)

[podsnel]

I was hoping you would have a better experience than we did when we were there in 2007. We went because Il Mulino is well regarded in Manhattan, so we were anxious to see how the Orlando version stood up. My DH & I felt like our food was wayyyyyy too over garlicked! Even the kids weren't happy with their meals. Oh well, plenty of other good restaurants to try instead, right?

 

[Greyhound22]

Mike, you should work for Disney. They seriously owe you. I can't believe anyone that has taken the time to read (and look) at your reports, isn't psyched to stay at a DVC Resort. THANK YOU. My family is going to Washington D.C. for our Spring Break trip (me and DW are teachers). Our 12 day Disney Trip is around the 4th of July. I don't know if I can wait now.

 

[DVC Mike]

Well, we checked out of BWV this morning. I drove over to SSR and got to the front desk around 9:30 am to check-in. We got a room in the building in Congress Park closest to DTD. I didn't get a DTD view, however, even though I requested it. Oh well.

The front desk said the resort is booked to capacity. I saw several very large groups of teenage girls (probably cheerleaders) moving to and fro. They said they'd call me when my room was ready.

About 2pm, I decided to drop back by the front desk. Apparently, their computer went down and they were having challenges issuing room keys. They were also not calling folks to tell them their rooms were ready.

The 1-BR we got is in pretty good shape. The only visible wear and tear is the carpet. It looks like it should be replaced. Everything else is in working order, so we're pleased with the room.

We've decided to cancel our second night at Jiko as well as our night at Ohana and replace them with dinners at Artist Point (WL) and Citricos (GF).

A few pics of SSR.

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Here's what the High Rock Spring pool at SSR looks like today.

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[Granny]

The front desk said the resort is booked to capacity. I saw several very large groups of teenage girls (probably cheerleaders) moving to and fro. They said they'd call me when my room was ready.

So...did those cheerleaders ever call you?



Glad your trip is going well, and that crowds and weather seem to be cooperating for you. Enjoy Artist Point and Citricos!

 

[Moeluv4u7]

Mike, very nice shots of SSR
I have to ask- even though you are still down in WDW... areyou photshopping any of your pics- specifically, are you fixing any of your photos to show those more than amazing reflections in the water?
I am still shopping around for a new camera and checked out your Olympus model posted- I am looking to stay less than $200- and preferably closer to the lower $150 less side but I want great pics- I have Photoshop CS3 as well as a few other photo programs- If I get a picture, I can always adjust things but I want to get a camera that gives me high optical zoom, good stabilization, low light situations are important, etc- Maybe settle on one without all of the "nice" features and just alter them...?
Okay, not trying to negotiate cameras here just wondering if the pictures are excatly as you took them.
Thx!

 

[DVC Mike]

are you photshopping any of your pics- specifically, are you fixing any of your photos to show those more than amazing reflections in the water?

just wondering if the pictures are excatly as you took them.
Thx!

The photos are completely untouched - fresh from the camera.

 

[dbprimeaux]

I LOVE reading your story....Your pictures are awesome!! We will be at home - "SSR" on May 30th-June 7th. I can't wait !!

 

[wulfekamp]

Why can't my husband be like DVC mike.

 

[DVC Mike]

We ate at Artist Point at the Wilderness Lodge. It was great to be back at the lodge. We feel very much at home there.

I had the Cedar Plank Roasted Pacific King Salmon with roasted potatoes, brussels sprouts, smoked pork belly, and honey-truffle brown butter, followed by the Artist Point Cobbler for dessert.

My DW had a fantastic dish prepared by Chef Matt. I can't give away what he does, but if you're a vegetarian, make sure you ask for Chef Matt. He has some very creative vegetarian dishes!

We are very appreciative for the way Disney bends over backwards to accomodate people with food allergies. It was one of the reasons we bought into DVC.

On our way to Publix, we saw the launch of the Space Shuttle. What a sight at night!

 

[jekjones1558]

On our way to Publix, we saw the launch of the Space Shuttle. What a sight at night!

I was wondering if you would see it! We have seen a launch from WDW but have yet to time things right to see one from the launch area. We actually had tickets once for the close-up area but then the launch date was changed. It looked fabulous on TV tonight!

 

[sanbornangel]

Just joined your report. Less than 50 days until our first stay at BWV. My heart is pounding, my eyes are bulging, I am on the edge of my seat. I am so glad that I am not alone. People at work think I am crazy..I have my next 3 Disney trips planned. It's just me and DH. We are trying some of the signature restaurants this trip..Yachtsman and Flying Fish...can't wait. I think we may even try some golf (look out anyone that may be at Oak trail on May 8.....fore! ) Your pictures are awesome!

 

[Uncle Remus]

Great thread, fabulous pictures, thanks so much, Mike.

F&G Show is so colorful, thanks for includin' those shots.

 

[S. C.]

Just joined your report. Less than 50 days until our first stay at BWV. My heart is pounding, my eyes are bulging, I am on the edge of my seat. I am so glad that I am not alone. People at work think I am crazy..I have my next 3 Disney trips planned. It's just me and DH. We are trying some of the signature restaurants this trip..Yachtsman and Flying Fish...can't wait. I think we may even try some golf (look out anyone that may be at Oak trail on May 8.....fore! ) Your pictures are awesome!

UMMMM.... your not a little bit excited are you.

Hope you have fabulous trips. I'm happy for you.

 

[donaldsgal]

So...did those cheerleaders ever call you?



Glad your trip is going well, and that crowds and weather seem to be cooperating for you. Enjoy Artist Point and Citricos!

here, too!

Great pictures, Mike! I LOVE Citricos - We have some similar restaurants booked for our trip in 49 days!!!

 

[ccigliano]

Great trip report Mike. Almost feels like I'm there. Thanks for taking pictures and taking the time to post a report.

 

[disneymom8589]

Fabulous pictures and TR!! I loved seeing the pictures of Kidani Village as we'll be staying there next January for the marathon weekend. Also glad to hear your positive review of Jiko. We are anxious to try it on our next trip!

 

[tea pot]

Yep, 20 add-ons (all direct from Disney) for a total of 1,000 points. We manage to use each and every point.

Good for You and thanks again for sharing each and every trip with us.....

 

[TheDISneyFamily]

Hey Mike! How's it going at SSR? Do you miss the Boardwalk yet?

 

[jockdog]

Hi Mike. Do you think you will get a chance to check the boat routes whilst you are there? You stated on another thread that the PO boats didn't stop at SSR, yet I'm positive that they did in 2007. Thanks, Alan.

 

[Disneypirate85]

here, too!

Great pictures, Mike! I LOVE Citricos - We have some similar restaurants booked for our trip in 49 days!!!

How funny I knew what Mike ment but still giggled bout it....
Mike GREAT pics of SSR...Shawn