Grand Californian Super Thread

[franandaj]

So far from what I hear, DVC members can't even get all the rooms they want, so not sure how much if any will be opened for cash ressies. I bet the rules are different from FL and it sounds like they are booked solid. Probably renting would be the only option.

 

[kerickson]

Have non-DVC members been able to book villa rooms at the Californian yet?

I sure hope I have the opportunity to stay in one someday.

Any rooms not yet declared into inventory will be avaialble as cash rooms, but I believe all VGC rooms have been declared given it's almost sold out.

Also, if a VGC member trades out of the system to use their points to book a cruise, adventures by disney, RCI, or DLH or PPH, those points will convert into cash ressies to recoup the cost. I've heard quite a few members on this board comment that they couldn't book VGC so they booked at the DLH or PPH... Given the small number of rooms, cash ressies will be rare but they will happen. Does anyone know the cash rates? I haven't seen anything published like they have for the WDW villas.

 

[blackjackdelta]

Have non-DVC members been able to book villa rooms at the Californian yet?

I sure hope I have the opportunity to stay in one someday.

We have. We will be in a 1 bedroom 8/15-8/21.

Jack

 

[blackjackdelta]

Any rooms not yet declared into inventory will be avaialble as cash rooms, but I believe all VGC rooms have been declared given it's almost sold out.

Also, if a VGC member trades out of the system to use their points to book a cruise, adventures by disney, RCI, or DLH or PPH, those points will convert into cash ressies to recoup the cost. I've heard quite a few members on this board comment that they couldn't book VGC so they booked at the DLH or PPH... Given the small number of rooms, cash ressies will be rare but they will happen. Does anyone know the cash rates? I haven't seen anything published like they have for the WDW villas.

When I checked at 7 month's out from our Aug date a 1 bedroom was $1010/night cash if available.

Jack

 

[sierranevada]

Have non-DVC members been able to book villa rooms at the Californian yet?

I sure hope I have the opportunity to stay in one someday.

We have twice - 12/13 - 12/17/2009 and 6/20 - 6/24/2010 - both times in a 2 bdrm. We only got one night on the June ressie when I first called in Nov so waitlisted the other nights and one by one they cleared - last one clearing in Mid-Feb

 

[BunnieGene]

We just got back and we were upgraded from a standard view to Downtown Disney view without asking. It was great, we could watch the fireworks from our room.

How nice for you!

Also, the last couple of times we stayed there we also received an itinerary on check-in...but hadn't used vacation planning to make our dining reservations...this was concierge level, but it was something new.

 

[Golfing Goofy]

Also, the last couple of times we stayed there we also received an itinerary on check-in...but hadn't used vacation planning to make our dining reservations...this was concierge level, but it was something new.

Something else that is new is that the concierge called us prior to our trip in June. We have never received a call from them before. They called to see if we needed help making any plans. I don't know if they have done that before???

(I haven't read this whole thread...maybe someone else mentioned this... if so, sorry. )

 

[PrincessIM]

Has anyone ever requested the child sized robes that I've read are available. Which "child size" are they? Adult robes are in the closet, correct?

Also, I've seen a photo of child life vests near the pool. Are these a rental or help yourself item? Do they go quickly, or are there usually some available?

One more question....Which pool would you recommend for young kids who are confident in the water? I've done a search on pool depths, but couldn't find any info. Anyone know. TIA

The life vests are first come but we never had a problem getting one. There were more than enough.

 

[funatdisney]

Something else that is new is that the concierge called us prior to our trip in June. We have never received a call from them before. They called to see if we needed help making any plans. I don't know if they have done that before???

(I haven't read this whole thread...maybe someone else mentioned this... if so, sorry. )

It has been a long time since I have stayed at concierge level room at the GCH, but I do remember a CM from concierge calling me to offer assistance with my plans. I said, "yes" and was able to reserve the chef's table for the Napa Rose. I guess they don't always do that, but concierge was able to do that for us. That was one fun meal and we closed the place down. Ahh fond memories.

I now stay at the VGC and cook my own meals.

 

[KCmike]

Here are some recent shots I took. I hope you all enjoy.

High in the rafters....not really.

Third floor lobby

 

[ipdenc]

KCmike- love your pics! We are staying there in Sept. for the 1st time and we are so excited! Your pictures makes the waiting seem easier! Thanks!

 

[lffam]

I think it has to do with staying on site and using Vacation Planning. Just wanted to clarify that it can be done.

Jack

is vacation panning available to anyone staying onsite? we have rented points and are in a 2 bed villa in september. ?

 

[monami7]

I know it says this somewhere but I was wondering where the Bunk Bed rooms are?
Thanks

 

[Nonsuch]

I know it says this somewhere but I was wondering where the Bunk Bed rooms are?

Different bed types are spread throughout the hotel. I have not seen a listing or floorplan showing the type of beds in each room. If a the information is available, I hope someone could post it

 

[Funball]

Hey trip planners!!!!

I still have park maps for Disneyland and DCA !!

 

[blackjackdelta]

is vacation panning available to anyone staying onsite? we have rented points and are in a 2 bed villa in september. ?

Yes it is.

Jack

 

[KCmike]

KCmike- love your pics! We are staying there in Sept. for the 1st time and we are so excited! Your pictures makes the waiting seem easier! Thanks!

Thank you so much. How about another?

 

[3TinksAndAnEeyore]

Thank you so much. How about another?

Awesome! Please keep them coming! I especially love the pool pic since we will be spending one day almost entirely at the pool.

 

[mom2dzb]

Yes! More pictures, please!

 

[lffam]

Yes it is.

Jack

Wow I didn't know that. How do you contact them? What can they organize for you? The villas are a bit of a splurge for us but you only live once I guess!!