HAVING A GRAND OLD TIME! The 2013 Grand Floridian Resort & Villas FAQ

[mickeynut1]

Hey, all. I hope everyone is healthy and happy and, if at the GF, having a wonderful time.

I do have a little query for my fellow RPCers. While we have stayed at the RPC before, this is the first trip we are using the Planning Office for ADRs. Usually, I am too much of a control freak and rather enjoy handling WDW bookings. This time we would be away from home, computer, phone on the required booking days for certain ADRs. So, we thought, why not let the Planning Office do their thing.

A week out from our 180 day mark and we sent our requests via the email form. We phoned the office with the required info, such as credit card details. All appeared well. They told us a confirmation email would be sent on Nov 7 - the 180 day mark. Well, it is past due. I emailed the office today. Still no word. Is this normal? Should I worry? Am I panicked for no good reason? Is it due to the fact that I haven't had my morning coffee, yet? I know, I know. Pitiful, right?

I can't help much as I've never used IPO for any of our CL stays, but I would maybe email them again tomorrow if you don't hear anything by tonight. I hope everything is fine and all of your ADRs are made and the confirmation email is just taking a while .

Well, now I'm feeling left out! We've never even noticed any sticky buns at any of the CL lounges - but we rarely eat sweet stuff at breakfast, so if they are only out in the morning that would explain it. If they are this popular, sounds like I need to check it out next trip!

They are awesome......you have to look for them and try them on your next GF CL stay .

Yes! Oh, those were the days! I wouldn't be able to fit into my going to Mickey clothes if I indulged my sweet-tooth with a StickyMickey. Ooh, maybe I could find a substitute in my kitchen pantry. Nope, that would be a fool's errand.

I'm loving my SL CL stay and it hasn't even started yet!! LOL!

I've stayed CL several times (not at GF though) but I've never needed to use the Itinerary Planning service.
We are going to the Nov 21 MVMCP and I wanted a dinner res at LTT but couldn't get one...
Bazinga! (All hail Sheldon!) I emailed and they got us 6:35. PERFECT!

Have a great trip.....and congrats on getting LTT .

 

[followthatmouse]

I can't help much as I've never used IPO for any of our CL stays, but I would maybe email them again tomorrow if you don't hear anything by tonight. I hope everything is fine and all of your ADRs are made and the confirmation email is just taking a while .

Thank you, mickeynut1. Yes, I bit the bullet and called the office. They were waiting 'til all our ADRs had been done. As we have booked a reasonably lengthy stay, the confirmation will be a a week or two away. It was just my over-active imagination and a lack of caffeine that saw trouble ahead.

 

[DaisyNY]

Just back from a wonderful stay...when we were leaving on Nov. 4th they were beginning to assemble the Gingerbread House. Used DVC Points to reserve a room as there were no villas available due to our late booking. Not sure if I would lay out the cash or points to stay here again...for the amount of time spent in the room, I didn't feel that it was worth the price...even though it is so beautiful!

 

[Welcome Home]

Has anyone had Afternoon Tea delivered from room service? We aren't staying CL this time and we don't think we would relax at the restaurant with our three young boys but we would love to have some of those yummy scones and cream.

 

[MrsJ Henry]

I would love some feedback on this.....
Would it look bad to have my 7 year old daughter pose in from of the Gingerbread house in her christmas PJ's?? I thought it would make a cute picture. Do others ever do anything like this or would we be getting some funny looks having our daughter running around in PJ's?

 

[bethclayton]

i think it would be totally fine. it is a very child friendly resort. if you're self-conscious, maybe go in the very early morning before the lobby is crowded. it gets EXTREMELY crowded in december, so much so that even taking a pic becomes a feat.

 

[MrsJ Henry]

i think it would be totally fine. it is a very child friendly resort. if you're self-conscious, maybe go in the very early morning before the lobby is crowded. it gets EXTREMELY crowded in december, so much so that even taking a pic becomes a feat.

Thanks, yes I had planned on taking it later in the evening or early morning. We are going to be there the week of Nov 18th.

 

[mickeynut1]

Thank you, mickeynut1. Yes, I bit the bullet and called the office. They were waiting 'til all our ADRs had been done. As we have booked a reasonably lengthy stay, the confirmation will be a a week or two away. It was just my over-active imagination and a lack of caffeine that saw trouble ahead.

You're welcome . Glad everything is looking good and it's just taking time. LOL on your over-active imagination ......but I don't blame you for thinking that way......I would wonder if everything was going good as well .

Just back from a wonderful stay...when we were leaving on Nov. 4th they were beginning to assemble the Gingerbread House. Used DVC Points to reserve a room as there were no villas available due to our late booking. Not sure if I would lay out the cash or points to stay here again...for the amount of time spent in the room, I didn't feel that it was worth the price...even though it is so beautiful!

Glad you had a great trip . We've never been during the time decorations were just going up, but I think it would be cool to see the gingerbread house assembled. I agree about the rates. The GF is a beautiful resort and the villas look stunning, but I don't blame you for rethinking another stay (either with points or cash) if you won't be utilizing the room or the resort overall too much.

Has anyone had Afternoon Tea delivered from room service? We aren't staying CL this time and we don't think we would relax at the restaurant with our three young boys but we would love to have some of those yummy scones and cream.

I'm not familiar with Afternoon Tea, but I'm sure someone here will be able to help .

I would love some feedback on this.....
Would it look bad to have my 7 year old daughter pose in from of the Gingerbread house in her christmas PJ's?? I thought it would make a cute picture. Do others ever do anything like this or would we be getting some funny looks having our daughter running around in PJ's?

I agree with bethclayton that it will be fine . As she said, the lobby does get very busy during the holiday months, so going early in the morning or later at night would probably be best. I, too, think that would make a great picture .

 

[Grace&Carolinesmom]

Has anyone had Afternoon Tea delivered from room service? We aren't staying CL this time and we don't think we would relax at the restaurant with our three young boys but we would love to have some of those yummy scones and cream.

It seems like I remember someone here on the boards doing just that a few years ago. I seem to remember seeing pictures of the DISer and her girls having room service tea on their balcony. I am sure k&a&c'smom will come along soon and know for sure....with the pic references.... She is the best!

 

[Disney Spaz]

Sorry it has taken me so long to post these. DD had an emergency tonsillectomy.

These are the views from room 1327 in the Villas, a 1 bedroom standard view.
Panoramic

Looking to the left

Looking to the right

At night

 

[k&a&c'smom]

....
They are awesome......you have to look for them and try them on your next GF CL stay .

Thank you, mickeynut1. Yes, I bit the bullet and called the office. They were waiting 'til all our ADRs had been done. As we have booked a reasonably lengthy stay, the confirmation will be a a week or two away. It was just my over-active imagination and a lack of caffeine that saw trouble ahead.

I'm glad this turned out to be the case, I was just going to give the same advice as mickeynut. I know others have said IPO has made all the reservations but did not email on the exact date. I'm sure that has caused a lot of angst, you would think they would at least give you a "here's where we are with it" email.

Sorry I didn't answer this yesterday, I didn't see it until mickeynut quoted you!

Just back from a wonderful stay...when we were leaving on Nov. 4th they were beginning to assemble the Gingerbread House. Used DVC Points to reserve a room as there were no villas available due to our late booking. Not sure if I would lay out the cash or points to stay here again...for the amount of time spent in the room, I didn't feel that it was worth the price...even though it is so beautiful!

I'm glad you had a great stay, I would love to see the construction of the gingerbread house! If you do not spend a lot of time in the resort, I don't blame you for re-thinking the outlay of points.

I would love some feedback on this.....
Would it look bad to have my 7 year old daughter pose in from of the Gingerbread house in her christmas PJ's?? I thought it would make a cute picture. Do others ever do anything like this or would we be getting some funny looks having our daughter running around in PJ's?

i think it would be totally fine. it is a very child friendly resort. if you're self-conscious, maybe go in the very early morning before the lobby is crowded. it gets EXTREMELY crowded in december, so much so that even taking a pic becomes a feat.

....

....
I agree with bethclayton that it will be fine . As she said, the lobby does get very busy during the holiday months, so going early in the morning or later at night would probably be best. I, too, think that would make a great picture .

Thanks, yes I had planned on taking it later in the evening or early morning. We are going to be there the week of Nov 18th.

I agree with everyone else, and think this is an adorable idea!! As you've said, I would probably try late at night or early morning - not because of weird looks, but just due to getting a shot without tons of people milling around.

Has anyone had Afternoon Tea delivered from room service? We aren't staying CL this time and we don't think we would relax at the restaurant with our three young boys but we would love to have some of those yummy scones and cream.

Hello! I have not ordered tea from Private Dining, but have read of others who have so it should be available. I know people have had it delivered to various spots around the resort, not sure I've read of it lately. Still, posters have reported having any GF restaurant menu items delivered via Private Dining, you should be fine.

Oh, the only caveat - you may have to have it during the hours in which tea is served in the Tea Room (2-6 pm) or at least plan it a day in advance. They may not have them available if you try to call, say, at breakfast or late in the day as they bake them fresh.

It seems like I remember someone here on the boards doing just that a few years ago. I seem to remember seeing pictures of the DISer and her girls having room service tea on their balcony. I am sure k&a&c'smom will come along soon and know for sure....with the pic references.... She is the best!

Your post made me laugh, I think I remember you teasing me about having a photo for any question. Too funny! I was bummed I couldn't come up with a pic in this instance, it would have made my day!

Thanks for the sweet compliment, btw.

ETA: thanks for the lovely photos, DisneySpaz!!

 

[k&a&c'smom]

Sorry it has taken me so long to post these. DD had an emergency tonsillectomy.

Oops! I was so excited about the photos, I missed this part. Sorry about your DD's emergency, I hope she is doing well.

 

[tallen429]

Thanks, yes I had planned on taking it later in the evening or early morning. We are going to be there the week of Nov 18th.

We will be there at that time too! I am taking DD7 on a mommy and me surprise trip!

 

[MrsJ Henry]

We will be there at that time too! I am taking DD7 on a mommy and me surprise trip!

How fun!!!
we will be there Monday to monday. Hope we all have good weather and low crowds.

 

[mickeynut1]

Sorry it has taken me so long to post these. DD had an emergency tonsillectomy.

These are the views from room 1327 in the Villas, a 1 bedroom standard view.

I hope your DD is doing ok .

The pics are great......thanks for sharing .

Hello! I have not ordered tea from Private Dining, but have read of others who have so it should be available. I know people have had it delivered to various spots around the resort, not sure I've read of it lately. Still, posters have reported having any GF restaurant menu items delivered via Private Dining, you should be fine.

Oh, the only caveat - you may have to have it during the hours in which tea is served in the Tea Room (2-6 pm) or at least plan it a day in advance. They may not have them available if you try to call, say, at breakfast or late in the day as they bake them fresh.

I knew you would have the answer or at least a good suggestion .

We will be there at that time too! I am taking DD7 on a mommy and me surprise trip!

How fun!!!
we will be there Monday to monday. Hope we all have good weather and low crowds.

I hope you both have great trips .

 

[disneydreamin247]

Safe travels! Have a Grand vacation!



Well, now I'm feeling left out! We've never even noticed any sticky buns at any of the CL lounges - but we rarely eat sweet stuff at breakfast, so if they are only out in the morning that would explain it. If they are this popular, sounds like I need to check it out next trip!

Anyone else now pining for the old Sticky Mickey from the CR?!

They are SOOOO good! I even indulge in them! I am a protein and fruit for breakfast kinda gal, but those darn sticky buns are worth every calorie and carb.

Sorry it has taken me so long to post these. DD had an emergency tonsillectomy.

I'm so sorry. I hope your DD is ok.

 

[Grace&Carolinesmom]

Disney Spaz Great pics! Thx a bunch. Hope your DD is feeling better and getting LOTS of ice cream

k&a&c'smom You really are the hostess with the mostest You can bring up a pic to answer most any question in lightening fast time. I TRIED to find the pic I have in my mind's eye of the tea party on the balcony but to no avail. I can't remember who the DISer is or the year. I know it was at least 2 years ago and maybe longer but I remember it was a trip she had saved up for and wanted it to be special. Not sure if it was her DDs or DGDs but I can picture the white cloth covered tiny table on the balcony with the tea and scones. There were balloons I think too maybe right inside the sliders near the daybed in the background....anyhoo, they had a lovely memory as I recall

All this talk of sticky buns has made me hungry. BUT.....I already have plans to get up early one morning and hike it over to Poly for some Tonga Toast to-go at CC's. I LOVE Tonga Toast with a side of sausage (cuz nobody at Disney knows how to make crispy bacon). After that punch of calories, I am good to go till dinner.

 

[k&a&c'smom]

I knew you would have the answer or at least a good suggestion

You guys are making me blush. A good suggestion is often the best I can do.

They are SOOOO good! I even indulge in them! I am a protein and fruit for breakfast kinda gal, but those darn sticky buns are worth every calorie and carb.

We will definitely give them a try next time. We aren't so worried about carbs or calories on vacation, but sweet things at breakfast don't always agree with me. Still, I'm willing to chance it.

k&a&c'smom You really are the hostess with the mostest You can bring up a pic to answer most any question in lightening fast time. I TRIED to find the pic I have in my mind's eye of the tea party on the balcony but to no avail. I can't remember who the DISer is or the year. I know it was at least 2 years ago and maybe longer but I remember it was a trip she had saved up for and wanted it to be special. Not sure if it was her DDs or DGDs but I can picture the white cloth covered tiny table on the balcony with the tea and scones. There were balloons I think too maybe right inside the sliders near the daybed in the background....anyhoo, they had a lovely memory as I recall

All this talk of sticky buns has made me hungry. BUT.....I already have plans to get up early one morning and hike it over to Poly for some Tonga Toast to-go at CC's. I LOVE Tonga Toast with a side of sausage (cuz nobody at Disney knows how to make crispy bacon). After that punch of calories, I am good to go till dinner.

Aw, man - I think I know the photo you mean!! I'll try to find it in a little while. I know BCV23 and her family did a special tea service a few years ago - don't remember if it was on their balcony or the CL balcony - but I doubt she posted a photo of it. She says she's photo challenged. But I think I do remember the one you mean. I'll have to go into sleuth mode.

Amen about the bacon. We have yet to find decent bacon in the World, what's up with that?! LOL about the punch of calories, Tonga Toast is sugar overload for me. We do not get it often, even though we love b'fast at Kona. Usually split the mac nut pancakes and eggs benedict, and of course, have a press pot and Lilikoi juice!

 

[mickeynut1]

You guys are making me blush. A good suggestion is often the best I can do.

Sometimes they are good suggestions, but more often it is your knowledge of the GF .

 

[bookwormde]

First thanks for all the great info.

DVC member (not VGF), and thought I would never stay at GF in any fashion, a combination of not my style, and being more than a little cheap.

Fast forward to the DVC 7 month window, I on a whim I checked availability of VGF for June. What a surprise, lots of 2 BRs available. Still the point were much higher than other 2 bedrooms. Then I realized that for other DVCs we needed a 2br and a studio for our vacation with extended family (10+ and infant) and a lock off 2br would fit all of us (crowded). Booked 3 nights, as I thought that many in a 2br would get old quick. standard view of course since I am cheap. We always do split stays so we are headed for BCV after VGF fro 5 more days.

I then looked at the rack rates for the 2br, does anyone ever consider paying cash? wow

So this gets me back to having stayed at all the WDW DVCs what a surprise, at least until Poly DVC opens