I know the snake thing is the problem, but I wanted to share my 1st floor experience at the Poly with you. We also had requested an upper floor with a balcony thinking it would be a nice view, but upon arrival we were given a first floor. Oh well. Oh my goodness!!! Best issue ever! WE stayed in Tokelau, which is now DVC< but that patio was awesome. The grounds at teh Poly are so plush that even when there are people on the sidewalks, you are sheltered from them. That patio was so much more spacious than a balcony and added a lot more room for us. If you can somehow get past the snake problem, and I totally get that!!!!, and end up with a patio, you may find it the best non granted request ever!