EXPIRED: Part ONE of 2015 CLUB LEVEL (CL) INFORMATION and HELP Thread DO NOT POST HERE!!!

[mom2randj]

I had an interesting conversation this morning with an online friend of mine about club level at WDW. She has never given it a try because she said it's for "rich people who want their a$$@$ kissed". Pardon my french but I wanted to quote her word for word. I then started giving all my reasoning behind choosing club level and why I don't think it has anything at all to do with wealth. Anyone who goes to WDW is coughing up big bucks, and I know for a fact many families spend more on their non-CL vacation than I do when I stay club level. She acknowledged my opinion but said she doesn't feel comfortable vacationing with "club level type people". I actually feel sad to think there are people who feel this way.

I have had a similar conversation with a co-worker. He touts to me that he could go to WDW and pay 1/2 as much as I am paying staying CL this October. He stays at values, uses every reward mile earned to pay for his flights, and has two little girls so much of his time at the parks is standing in long lines for character meet and greets. oh - and they go to WDW every.single.year. Fine for him, if that's what he chooses to do, but that is not my kind of vacation. This is our 2nd trip to WDW in four years,...we just don't go every year because when we do, we want to feel like we are really on vacation. It's all about priorities.

I think this perception is common. There are those who feel that value resorts are for poor folks, deluxe for upper middle, club for snobs. It's such a skewed viewpoint. I have a friend who is a doctor who can afford to stay anywhere, but she and her family almost always stay value or moderate. I've met families of modest means at the deluxe resorts and on club level. It's all about what's important to the individual, it's not one size fits all. Never judge a person by their hotel room!

Well said. I couldn't agree more.

 

[mrsap]

Hello everyone!! I'd love to be added to the board!! We'll be staying at WL CL from 11/28 - 12/5. We tried it for the first time last year for our 10 Year Anniversary, and like most of you said would happen, we are Hooked!!!!! We really loved being at the Lodge for Thanksgiving and all the Christmas decorations! Looking forward to going back and chatting with all of you while we wait for our trips to arrive!!!

 

[trishadono]

I had an interesting conversation this morning with an online friend of mine about club level at WDW. She has never given it a try because she said it's for "rich people who want their a$$@$ kissed". Pardon my french but I wanted to quote her word for word. I then started giving all my reasoning behind choosing club level and why I don't think it has anything at all to do with wealth. Anyone who goes to WDW is coughing up big bucks, and I know for a fact many families spend more on their non-CL vacation than I do when I stay club level. She acknowledged my opinion but said she doesn't feel comfortable vacationing with "club level type people". I actually feel sad to think there are people who feel this way.

They haven't met my MOM! My sweet mom and I had a wonderful time at poly cl in November. Mom and dad live very frugally on their social security and small pension. They lost their house in 2011 to a flood and after 50 years in a paid for house had to move and get a mortgage. I thought that was gonna kill my dad.

SO when I found a great deal last year I asked dad for the money for moms room and plane ticket. I paid the upgrade for cl and we had a blast!!

If you only have a few days it saved so much time having everything so conveniently located. NO time for long dinners etc!

Sometimes cl is worth it, others not. At this point dh and I are mod and up for sure. Did the values many times but we have outgrown that part of our lives.

It is great Disney has something for everyone! I love the villas for family trips

 

[TigrLvsPooh]

I'm about the furthest thing from rich! LOL Especially now that I'm single. But I don't have many expenses, my car is paid for, I'm not a big time shopper, I don't do nail appointments, or belong to a gym, or have any expensive hobbies, so all my extra money goes to WDW. I definitely won't make six trips down this year like I did last year, those days are over ..... until I find my Prince Charming who wants to sweep me off my feet and fund my Disney addiction!

 

[TigrLvsPooh]

Hello everyone!! I'd love to be added to the board!! We'll be staying at WL CL from 11/28 - 12/5. We tried it for the first time last year for our 10 Year Anniversary, and like most of you said would happen, we are Hooked!!!!! We really loved being at the Lodge for Thanksgiving and all the Christmas decorations! Looking forward to going back and chatting with all of you while we wait for our trips to arrive!!!

Awesome! WELCOME! I will add you right now! I spent last Christmas at the WL CL, such a beautiful time to be there!

 

[trishadono]

Hello everyone!! I'd love to be added to the board!! We'll be staying at WL CL from 11/28 - 12/5. We tried it for the first time last year for our 10 Year Anniversary, and like most of you said would happen, we are Hooked!!!!! We really loved being at the Lodge for Thanksgiving and all the Christmas decorations! Looking forward to going back and chatting with all of you while we wait for our trips to arrive!!!

Make sure to check in on the wl board. Kook has some more resort info there as well.

 

[fairy oma]

I had an interesting conversation this morning with an online friend of mine about club level at WDW. She has never given it a try because she said it's for "rich people who want their a$$@$ kissed". Pardon my french but I wanted to quote her word for word. I then started giving all my reasoning behind choosing club level and why I don't think it has anything at all to do with wealth. Anyone who goes to WDW is coughing up big bucks, and I know for a fact many families spend more on their non-CL vacation than I do when I stay club level. She acknowledged my opinion but said she doesn't feel comfortable vacationing with "club level type people". I actually feel sad to think there are people who feel this way.

I so agree with that last sentence. How unfortunate to think this way because they will never be able to experience the convenience of CL.

We are taking our kids and grandkids to the Poly and staying CL TPV as a special treat this December because we know that they will never treat themselves to staying CL. We are looking forward to being able to enjoy all of the amenities that CL offers. We have stayed POR and really enjoyed ourselves but that is something they could do for themselves. We want everyone to have the memories of a very special family vacation and to celebrate a 60th birthday at the same time. What better way to celebrate than to spend it at WDW with kids, grandkids and DH.

 

[TinkerBellLiz]

I had an interesting conversation this morning with an online friend of mine about club level at WDW. She has never given it a try because she said it's for "rich people who want their a$$@$ kissed". Pardon my french but I wanted to quote her word for word. I then started giving all my reasoning behind choosing club level and why I don't think it has anything at all to do with wealth. Anyone who goes to WDW is coughing up big bucks, and I know for a fact many families spend more on their non-CL vacation than I do when I stay club level. She acknowledged my opinion but said she doesn't feel comfortable vacationing with "club level type people". I actually feel sad to think there are people who feel this way.

S/He is the one missing out by stereotyping CL guests like that. I would guess maybe 1% of CL guests have that attitude. I personally have never seen anyone give that impression. I HAVE seen some that were determined to get their $$ worth of food regardless of others behind them, but that is a different color horse I guess one person's value is another's waste! Just shake your head and grab another dessert and cordial (that they will be paying for!)

I think I stealthed into the tread between your trip and your house guests and you missed my dates. AKL CL April 24 - 27. I'm guessing we can't go if we're not on the log, right?

Liz

Ya'll stop making me dig this thing off page 2!

 

[BlueSkies]

Sorry I've been MIA! I had 12 house guests last week and I'm just now getting my house back to normal.

I've got major catching up to do! I will go back now and see everything I missed!!!

on the 12 house guests! Welcome back!!

I would do Poly CL. I am not a fan of the dining plan unless you have big eaters who will get their money's worth. My kids are snackers and CL is always a much better bargain for them.

Ours too... Absolutely love the convenience of the beverages and snacks....and the coffee!!!

My opinion of letting the IPO's make ADR's. 180+10 was available starting 4/10 since I was traveling at the time I let the IPO make my ADR's. Late in the evening I was finally able to check my reservations on line, well the IPO got me three out of my ten selections. When I contacted them about some of the dates I choose and gave them alternatives they said none were available and that I have been put on a wait list that searches daily for availability. Nothing has happened with that, but I searched on my own and have found two of my choices available and one of those being BOG for a 7:00 pm dinner reservation on a Sunday, so much for their waiting list checking daily! They did however get me wished dessert party.

So sorry that this happened to you...I am thinking that this was a fluke and not the norm..IPO has been making our ADRs for years..and we have always gotten everything that we have requested at the 180 day mark....including those elusive ADRs like BOG and CG..

I had an interesting conversation this morning with an online friend of mine about club level at WDW. She has never given it a try because she said it's for "rich people who want their a$$@$ kissed". Pardon my french but I wanted to quote her word for word. I then started giving all my reasoning behind choosing club level and why I don't think it has anything at all to do with wealth. Anyone who goes to WDW is coughing up big bucks, and I know for a fact many families spend more on their non-CL vacation than I do when I stay club level. She acknowledged my opinion but said she doesn't feel comfortable vacationing with "club level type people". I actually feel sad to think there are people who feel this way.

Me too.... What a perception....

Wow. First off she doesn't know what she is missing . Second, she should do a little research about something before she knocks it. Like you said, we sometimes stay club level for cheaper than what others pay including their dining, photopass plus memory maker etc etc.... Sorry your friend feels that way. I certainly am not rich and could care less about anyone kissing anything. I'm at Disney with my family that is all I need.

Well said!

They haven't met my MOM! My sweet mom and I had a wonderful time at poly cl in November. Mom and dad live very frugally on their social security and small pension. They lost their house in 2011 to a flood and after 50 years in a paid for house had to move and get a mortgage. I thought that was gonna kill my dad.

SO when I found a great deal last year I asked dad for the money for moms room and plane ticket. I paid the upgrade for cl and we had a blast!!

If you only have a few days it saved so much time having everything so conveniently located. NO time for long dinners etc!

Sometimes cl is worth it, others not. At this point dh and I are mod and up for sure. Did the values many times but we have outgrown that part of our lives.

It is great Disney has something for everyone! I love the villas for family trips

Thats awful that that happened to your parents Trish...On the bright side..thankfully they have each other..and were able to find a new home....I am so happy that my DD and I had the pleasure of meeting you and your very sweet and lovely mom on that trip...and spending time together....

S/He is the one missing out by stereotyping CL guests like that. I would guess maybe 1% of CL guests have that attitude. I personally have never seen anyone give that impression. I HAVE seen some that were determined to get their $$ worth of food regardless of others behind them, but that is a different color horse I guess one person's value is another's waste! Just shake your head and grab another dessert and cordial (that they will be paying for!)

I think I stealthed into the tread between your trip and your house guests and you missed my dates. AKL CL April 24 - 27. I'm guessing we can't go if we're not on the log, right?

Liz

Ya'll stop making me dig this thing off page 2!

Liz Ain't it the truth!!!! ...That literally made me lol!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[pixarmom]

Trish, we're with you! Upgraded my parents from their POFQ room to Poly CL last year. They are amazing parents and are moving into retirement stage with a limited budget, so we like to make things a little more enjoyable for them when we can. It was a joy to host them at Poly CL and we'll host them at WL CL next year. I have maybe seen the attitude described earlier by a couple guests on a couple occasions.

I also agree that CL is for some trips and not others. With our boys, definitely. They snack a lot like Erika's kids, it's a good value for them, extremely convenient and prompts more healthy eating then if staying non-CL. For our girls trip/convention at BWI, no CL.

 

[lala5176]

Would you stay for nine nights club level at Poly or maybe just do the second half? We are on the fence. Is it too long, will we get tired of the same food? Is it worth all that money? What do you all think?

 

[TigrLvsPooh]

Would you stay for nine nights club level at Poly or maybe just do the second half? We are on the fence. Is it too long, will we get tired of the same food? Is it worth all that money? What do you all think?

100% I would be sick to death of the food staying 9 nights. Plus I LOVE a split stay! I would do Poly CL and either YC CL or BC CL for the perfect trip! Nothing beats a monorail resort split with an Epcot resort in my opinion!

 

[lala5176]

100% I would be sick to death of the food staying 9 nights. Plus I LOVE a split stay! I would do Poly CL and either YC CL or BC CL for the perfect trip! Nothing beats a monorail resort split with an Epcot resort in my opinion!

That's a good point. You get the best of both worlds. We loved CL at the yacht club.
Would you consider staying at Poly all nine nights and moving to a club level room for maybe just 5 nights?

 

[pixarmom]

Agree with Erika - for nine nights, I would definitely do a split stay! Our longest stay was nine nights, and we split between Poly and BWI - it was great.

 

[trishadono]

Ya I wouldn't do 9 nights either. You could do a split stay with 2resorts or just start non club at Poly and hit the parks heavy then save a few days at the end for lounging , well in the CL lounge.

When I do split I prefer the CL part on the end because dd tries to ride all her favorites right away. Saving some lounging at the end is a great way to round out the vacation.

 

[lala5176]

Agree with Erika - for nine nights, I would definitely do a split stay! Our longest stay was nine nights, and we split between Poly and BWI - it was great.

I would love to do a Boardwalk CL split stay. CL is never available there when I call though.

 

[lala5176]

Ya I wouldn't do 9 nights either. You could do a split stay with 2resorts or just start non club at Poly and hit the parks heavy then save a few days at the end for lounging , well in the CL lounge.

When I do split I prefer the CL part on the end because dd tries to ride all her favorites right away. Saving some lounging at the end is a great way to round out the vacation.

I agree. I always need to relax a bit before we go home. I love that we don't feel like we have to rush through the parks to get everything done anymore and "lounging" has become a very important part of our vacation now.

 

[mom2randj]

ok, need some food/ADR advice as this is our first time CL and only our 2nd trip to WDW. First time we stayed at the poly, garden view and had the dining plan. Found it was too much food, desserts, etc and too scheduled around ADRs. That's why we opted for CL this time. All that said, we do enjoy our sit down dinners and I can't seem to get away from trying to plan a ADR each day. Do I need to take a chill pill and relax with the ADRs since we are doing CL? I understand the offerings are not meal replacements, just wondering how many ADRs you would plan to do for a 7 day stay CL.

 

[TigrLvsPooh]

ok, need some food/ADR advice as this is our first time CL and only our 2nd trip to WDW. First time we stayed at the poly, garden view and had the dining plan. Found it was too much food, desserts, etc and too scheduled around ADRs. That's why we opted for CL this time. All that said, we do enjoy our sit down dinners and I can't seem to get away from trying to plan a ADR each day. Do I need to take a chill pill and relax with the ADRs since we are doing CL? I understand the offerings are not meal replacements, just wondering how many ADRs you would plan to do for a 7 day stay CL.

I still make an ADR for each day. Then I decide later. I have a really hard time deciding which nights we want a sitdown and which nights we just want to hit the lounge for appetizers and then park snacks or quick service after. Sometimes I don't even know until the 24 hour deadline. I just have to see how my stomach feels.

I just bought our airfare for June! I'm starting to get more excited now!!!

 

[Dispro1]

I'm about the furthest thing from rich! LOL Especially now that I'm single. But I don't have many expenses, my car is paid for, I'm not a big time shopper, I don't do nail appointments, or belong to a gym, or have any expensive hobbies, so all my extra money goes to WDW. I definitely won't make six trips down this year like I did last year, those days are over ..... until I find my Prince Charming who wants to sweep me off my feet and fund my Disney addiction!

Personally, I think you just pointed out something that almost every CL lover has in common... Disney trips are a priority! Everyone likes to spend their money differently... Some get Starbucks every day (my neighbors), some love to shop, some love having manicures/pedicures, etc. And yes, some can afford to do it all, but I think most would rather do without some luxuries so that they can enjoy the luxury of staying CL while on vacation. I know quite a few people that have more money than we do that would NEVER pay what we do for CL (especially RPC), but they also own second homes (along with expensive toys like ski boats), have country club memberships, etc. And I'm not saying that having a country club membership necessarily means a person is rich either. People can choose to spend their money however they want, and they don't deserve to be judged for it. And honestly, I think anyone who goes on nice vacations at all (CL or not) would be considered "rich" when compared to the majority of people around the world. It's all relative.