Have you been "Bitten" by the Concierge "Bug"? aka The LIZARD LOUNGE!

[lovesdumbo]

Just dropping in to say hi!

I told my DD(5) that we're going to Disney. The first thing she asked was "will school be open when we're at Disney?" yes, "will I miss the bus?" yes "WHY?", well would you rather stay home and go on the bus or go to Disney?. She thought for several minutes-you could really see her little wheels turning. Then a huge smile came over her face-"GO TO DISNEY!". I guess I should have tried to explain that this was special and she couldn't always miss school just to do something more fun.

I'm getting so excited! I've made a big dent on the packing but its a challenge to pack for a family of 5 and try to balance the desire to be prepared for all with the NEED to pack light. I will be sending a box or 2 to the resort and plan to keep luggage to 2 checked bags, 2 carry-ons, a car seat and a stroller. That with 3 kids is enough to handle at the airport.

Gotta get back to work so can really enjoy this vacation!

 

[ValerieK]

Originally posted by GoofySuse
Maxine: Yes, you should be concerned, very concerned! Let me suggest that you send an e-mail to Valerie Charron; she's the Director of Operations of Guest Services @ the WL. Also one to Al Weiss. If you go back about ten pages you will see that this topic has been discussed, at length, of late. And Brian Britton the GM of the WL. Their e-mails are:

Valerie.A.Charron@disney.com
Al.Weiss@disney.com
Brian.Britton@disney.com

The WL is experiencing a lot of problems with the IPO (Itinerary Planning Office) right now. Don't let this slip as you are the one who will wind up not doing what you want.

Suse

I got a call from the IPO last night at about 8pm. I had emailed some requests to them on Tuesday and had not heard anything, so yesterday I called. Well, she said that after the first hurricaine they were behind several days and with each subsequent hurricaine they got farther and farther behind. I also asked if they were understaffed and she said yes. She also said that they have been very very busy.

I do have to say though that they have taken pretty good care of us. Our trip in two weeks (Yeah, only two more weeks! ) we are stay Poly LVC and they got us an Illuminations Cruise and also got us one for our Dec WL trip. I did ask for something to be placed in our room one day at the Poly for DD3, so we will see if they do it. I also asked for some recommendations for something special for DH for our Anniversary in Dec. I will see if she emails me back any suggestions.


Hope everyone has a great day!


Oh, and just in case any of the Lounge Lizards forgot, Monday Nov. 1, my pre-teen DS will be in the Poly Lounge eating Sushi. I will try to keep him from eating all of it. A hard feat considering sometimes he eats about 5 or 6 meals a day. I asked him yesterday what he is looking forward to most on this trip and he said the food in the lounge. He asked me not to schedule anything during the time they are serving Sushi.

Chef Dick, if you are reading this, be prepared!

Edit: I am having trouble spelling today.

 

[Mickey Fliers]

Count me in as someone also having trouble with the WL IPO. I guess I am lucky since I already have all of my PS's made. I sent an email to the IPO yesterday regarding having some things purchased and sent to my room. I still haven't heard back, but in the meantime, I have received two emails from Alana at YC IPO.

I guess I will fire off an email to one of the addresses listed above. Also, Alana (YC IPO) told me that WL IP was done through the Poly and she gave me that email. But when I received my blank IP sheet from WL, they listed a WL email address. I wonder if that makes a difference.

Have a good morning.

 

[minniesota]

Good morning lizards!

All the planning wheels are really turning! Welcome to all you new lizzies - I'm fairly new myself. And I'm off to the world tomorrow morning!!!! Better find the suitcases. I will post a report when I return. If you have any special requests for info or anything, post it today and I'll check in tonight. Lots of running around to do today

 

[samnbilly]

Have a great trip minniesota. Can't wait to hear all of the details when you return. I'm getting real close too!
Sorry to hear some of you having trouble with WL IPO. Here'e the dump truck load of PD for all of you needing it
Congratulations Bambi on all of the money you raised-That's Awesome!
Have a great day all!

 

[annamonte]

Originally posted by BambiTamby
annamonte....any updates on that CR12th report?
[/B]

Sorry I haven't answered... been busy doing the "mommy" things... October is a big fundraising time at our school, and of course I am either chairing or co-chairing every event! I am exhausted!

Anyway, CR 12th floor concierge was really nice. I am not sure if everyone knows this or not, but, now you check-in on the 12th floor! That was a major bonus b/c the line at lobby check-in was incredible! When we checked in, I reminded the CM that I requested MK view... in fact, DS reminded her too! Well, we didn't have a MK view... but, I think my son's pleading got to her, so she actually switched us into one! We had room 4838, sort of the center of the building. The view was FANTASTIC!!!! The room also looked like it had new carpeting in it... I guess from the flooding? Oh, and there was a fridge, not stocked though. And, I almost forgot, they left us tuxedo strawberries in our room on the second night... with Happy Anniversary written on the plate. I don't know if we were charged for this or not.. will find out eventually I guess.

Anyway, the breakfast selections were: coffee, tea, milk, chocolate milk, oj, cranberry juice, Krispy Kremes (do you know that I have never tasted one in my life... I waited until the last day, thank goodness or I would have eaten them all week!), bagels, danishes, cereals and beautiful fruit platters.

The afternoon snacks were: goldfish crackers, pretzels, and all kinds of cookies (oatmeal raisin, chocolate chip, and the best sugar cookies I have ever tasted!) and rice krispie treats. To drink there was only lemonade and a large bottle of water to pour from. We weren't there for the afternoon goodies most of the time, but sometimes they did leave a plate of cookies in our room. We had turndown service, but the chocolates were little squares with the Contemporary written on them... I thought we were getting little Mickey heads!

The service that we received was great... they got us in a few last minute PS's... but, it was pretty crowded in the parks and the resorts, so they could only do so much. I was surprised that we didn't really get any special service for our 10th anniversary...

All in all, we had a wonderful trip. You can't beat the location of CR. We watched the fireworks every night from our balcony. And if you put the tv on channel 20, you got to hear the music too! But, I don't know if I would spend the extra $ for 12th floor Concierge.... DH would... I am trying to explain that if you want to spend more, let's try another resort's Concierge... maybe Poly or GF?

That's it... any questions, just let me know!

 

[nrsldy]

Minniesota: Have a great trip! Please let me know when you get back how your DF liked the flag ceremony at MK. That is one thing I am looking forward to when we go. I still have not told my Dh. I am busting at the seams to tell.

 

[VAgal76]

Originally posted by annamonte
When we checked in, I reminded the CM that I requested MK view... in fact, DS reminded her too! Well, we didn't have a MK view... but, I think my son's pleading got to her, so she actually switched us into one! We had room 4838, sort of the center of the building. The view was FANTASTIC!!!!

Krispy Kremes (do you know that I have never tasted one in my life... I waited until the last day, thank goodness or I would have eaten them all week!),


All in all, we had a wonderful trip. You can't beat the location of CR. We watched the fireworks every night from our balcony. And if you put the tv on channel 20, you got to hear the music too! But, I don't know if I would spend the extra $ for 12th floor Concierge.... DH would... I am trying to explain that if you want to spend more, let's try another resort's Concierge... maybe Poly or GF?

That's it... any questions, just let me know!

Annamonte - Thanks for the insight on the 12th floor! I'm glad you got a great room location afterall.

You've NEVER tried Krispy Kreme donuts ! Follow that truck is said a lot when we are in town - LOL! They do put the red light on when they are fresh from the oven. Nothing beats a warm, sweet, slightly gooey, oh so soft Krispy Kreme....I think I need to make a quick trip with all this talk about them. My tummy is growling.

Your view sounds to die for, Annamonte!

I really appreciate posting a commentary on the 12th floor. I was beginning to waiver on my GF decision thinking I may be a get a better view of MK at CR. I know some may think I'm crazy for giving up the GF RPC. I'd just like to get a view of MK if I'm going to stay at MK resort. Didn't know if my chances would increase by staying at CR. The resort appears to be so nicely situated with a lot of rooms facing MK.

I have a problem with picking a resort and sticking to it with the exception of the AKL. The 14th floor decor at CR really appeals to me. Should I stay put at GF or consider somewhere else? We are going to be at MK for one day during our GF stay. The rest of the stay we'll be at DTD, Epcot/MGM. Should I consider BWI or CR? DH doesn't like the look of the Poly and prefers the AKL so the Poly is out for now (even though I liked it). Decisions, decisions, decisions.....Can you help a fellow lizard on this?

 

[annamonte]

VAGal: I would try to get 14th floor CR... from what BambiTamby and Kimberle said... it is AWESOME! Then, I would choose BWI or BC.

But, I am sure whatever you decide, you will have a wonderful time!

 

[DisneyMom23Boys]

Hi!

We leave in 6 days, 4 hours & 15 minutes, but who's counting!?

We've been staying for week stays at OKW for a few visits & last time (5/03) we went a day early & stayed at the CR since we were doing Chef Mickey's & the pin trading at the CR that evening. We decided to make staying at CR our first night on Fri. a tradition & when I called a few months ago to make a ressie for next week they were BOOKED SOLID!!! Absolutely NOTHING available (except the suites, which were $$$$!!! :O ) We got a room at GF instead, the next day I called CRT & low & behold there was a room available in the Tower Club!! We gulped big & said ok to the $305 (special postcard rate CM told me I was eligble for - I never did receive any??)

We are just happy to be in the CR & have been calling every couple days since to get a lower rate room, but to no avail.

Hopefully we will be able to get the most of the "limited" concierge for our 1-night's stay, before heading to OKW.

Thanks for letting us know the offerings - I'm sure it will be another truly magical WDW vacation with lots of Pixie Dust!!

So...if you are contemplating on where to stay & it's still several months away - make your ressies NOW - you can always change, according to availability, later, but take no chances.

Off to pack some more!!

Deb

 

[Steffy]

Originally posted by johnsonet
Maxine I hope everything works out. WL is a beautiful resort. I know you'll love it!

Well, guess what I'm doing instead of splurging on the Mouseketree? I'm flying my baby brother and his brand-new wife to Orlando to spend the weekend with us at AKL CL in December!! I got an incredible deal on Independence Air for 50% off to Orlando. Their flights cost $24.50 each one-way Isn't that hilarious?! We will fly into MCO within an hour of one another, limo it to AKL , check in and let the fun begin!! I cannot wait! Princess Andrea at AKL IPO has already added them to our CP dinner package and gotten them MVMCP tix for our first night! I am elated! Plus I ordered them personalized stockings which I will have filled with treats in our room - along with DD, of course!
All that for just a tiny bit more than I was going to spend on that adorable Christmas tree for our room. Well worth it, I must say
Neither has been to WDW in at least 15 years so this should be FUN!

Now that is cool!!!!!!

You deserve a reply all to yourself. :jumping4:

 

[Steffy]

Room wave!!

I am just so excited. My DGD is now making plans for our trip. My Dsil is excited too.

I really think my friend is going to make it to Disney too. We have had months of, "I don't think we can come, but I still haven't cancelled our ressies" talks. It has been stressful.

But now, I think her family is coming. I'm so glad I had the second pirate cruise, so her DGS could go with my DGD!!

This is just a rushed note, so I won't do any cute formatting.

BT, the show sounded great. And the WL trip is shaping up.

To all who are having problems with WL IPO, I second the dump truck of pixie dust!!

I thought I had problems with Poly IPO, but they have been wonderful. I got a call on Sunday with tips on how to pack for the season, reminders about the MVMCP, CP packages and all.

They made all of my arrangements for my DGD's birthday party. I am Disney OCD, so that is all I wanted to allow them to do...

I am blessed. During our Disney vacations, I don't even notice rude behavior by anyone, except for the lady who ran over my DGD with her stroller on Main Street. I had to hurt her.

Welcome to all our new lizards! This is such a cool place.

Welcome home to all our returning lizards. I'm so glad you liked Pop #1Hockeymom!!

To all who are at my favorite place in the world, Aloha!!! Kiss Mickey for me, I'll be there soon!

lovesdumbo, I sure hope the Poly is just as wondeful as it was the last time you were there!!! Tell them I'm counting on it in December. My goodness, look at this. It's October. I remember the time I had a counter for my counter!!! And now I'm almost 2 months out.

 

[k&a&c'smom]

samnbilly - HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!!!!

Bambi - Way to Go on the show/fundraiser!! Good luck on next week's show!

johnsonet - What a fantastic deal - that's really awesome!

DisneyMom23Boys - Welcome!! Sounds like you've got a great trip planned!!

VAgal - LOL!! When I worked for the PO, I would take my lunch break at about 2:30 a.m., when the Krispy Kreme truck made a stop at the local Texaco (there is no KK store near us!!) My kids loved waking up to a box of those little puffs of heaven!

 

[GoofySuse]

Originally posted by Mickey Fliers
Count me in as someone also having trouble with the WL IPO. I guess I am lucky since I already have all of my PS's made. I sent an email to the IPO yesterday regarding having some things purchased and sent to my room. I still haven't heard back, but in the meantime, I have received two emails from Alana at YC IPO.

I guess I will fire off an email to one of the addresses listed above. Also, Alana (YC IPO) told me that WL IP was done through the Poly and she gave me that email. But when I received my blank IP sheet from WL, they listed a WL email address. I wonder if that makes a difference.

Have a good morning.

Suffice it to say that it's just a mess....
Valerie will help....

 

[VAgal76]

I e-mailed Valerie on our experience at WL, but haven't received a response back? Not to even say I got your e-mail and thanks for letting me know?

 

[desiab]

<a href='http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb008' target='_blank'><img src='http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/29/29_4_21.gif' border=0></a><a href='http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb008' target='_blank'><img src='http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/29/29_4_21.gif' border=0></a><a href='http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb008' target='_blank'><img src='http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/29/29_4_21.gif' border=0></a><a href='http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb008' target='_blank'><img src='http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/29/29_4_21.gif' border=0></a>We're leeeeaving on a jet plane,
I don't know if I'll be back again. <a href='http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb008' target='_blank'><img src='http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/29/29_4_21.gif' border=0></a><a href='http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb008' target='_blank'><img src='http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/29/29_4_21.gif' border=0></a><a href='http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb008' target='_blank'><img src='http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/29/29_4_21.gif' border=0></a>
I couldn't help myself. This song has been in my head all day as I clean and pack for tommorrow. Yeah! <a href='http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb008' target='_blank'><img src='http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/23/23_30_104.gif' border=0></a> I will see you all when we get back.

 

[GoofySuse]

Originally posted by VAgal76
I e-mailed Valerie on our experience at WL, but haven't received a response back? Not to even say I got your e-mail and thanks for letting me know?

Jeez! What can I say? This is really not good publicity, is it?

 

[Mickey Fliers]

Let's all just hope that WL get their act together. I really love that resort.

All you lizards out there. I am trying to plan a trip for either mid-May or late June. (keeping fingers crossed for good discounts!!)
Where should we stay. It will be me, DH, DS7, DS5, and DS2. We have stayed CR garden wing, WL CL, YC CL and SOG. Which CL do you suggest?

Thanks

Hope you are all having a magical day. No matter where you are.

 

[floridafam]

I think WL needs to have their own IPO office and they need to look at some of the CM's that are working in the office now. There is one that I had a problem with. She was not organized at all and could barely spell. Very unprofessional.

We will probably be there in May for the Florida 1/2 Ironman at Fort Wilderness. The date is May 22 (thought this might be helpful for anyone going in May as the WL fills up pretty quickly.)

They shoud take some lessons from the IPO planners over at the Epcot Resorts. They are top notch!

 

[GoofySuse]

floridafam...I agree! I love the Beach Club CM's.

Unfortunately I think the problems start at the top and work their way down. I have never had a response from any of the three emails, which I sent, to the GM Brian Britton. I did get a letter, in the "thank you for your concerns but our staff is top notch" from the CL Manager, Mark Newman but NOTHING from the IPO manager. As previously stated the only one who seems to care is Valerie, the DO of Guest Services @ the WL. Perhaps the entire managerial staff needs replacing?

Do you think that anyone monitors these forums? If they do how could they not take steps to correct the problems.