Help! SOG v. POR

[dizneycc]

Hi all! I keep going back and forth on this one and would love any input...

I am going with a friend over Labor Day weekend. We do not plan on doing any parks. We are just going to relax, sit by the pool, eat, drink and be merry.

I have stayed at both SOG and POR (mansions section). I was happy with both.

I have been leaning towards POR for this trip due to the following: We want to spend one night enjoying Bob Jackson, we plan on going to Pleasure Island one night and like the idea of taking the boat over instead of the bus and, of course, I like being able to charge to my room and not have to worry about money.

However, I have been reading some not so good reviews of POR and this is going to be my friends first visit in over 20 years. I don't want her first impression of Disney to be of sticky carpets, mildew tubs and lack of mousekeeping.

Also, I'm not really sure which resort would have the best pool for two adults. We are going to have a car, so transportation isn't an issue. The price difference is only about $60 total for all three nights, so that isn't an issue.

As I said, any input will be appreciated! Thanks!

CC

 

[MELSMICE]

I haven't stayed at POR but did stay at SoG in April when it first opened. This is JMO, but I would choose POR. The main reason is because you mentioned your friend hasn't been to Disney in over 20 years. You'll get the "Disney magic" at POR but there really isn't any at Shades. It is a beautiful resort - on par with a deluxe, but it's not Disney.

I also think that if you'll be spending time at Pleasure Island the boat option is a great one - do remember to check how late it runs though.

Have you looked into renting points at a DVC resort for a studio during your stay?

 

[Cameo]

Have you thought about trying a different resort? Maybe CB or another moderate? We are eligible for SOG and have always used the overflow rates. We have stayed at many different places but never actually made it into SOG. Of course, now that it's larger, we may stay there. We just think it's fun to try different places. Have fun!

 

[tigger53]

i would take POR over SOG anyday. the landscaping is beautiful and there's easy access to the boat to DTD and the bob jackson show is a must see. we have stayed at POR many times over the years and the rooms have always been up to par. this past visit we stayed in bldg #85' magnolia terrace which was just refurbished and as far as i know most of the mansion sections have all been redone in the past months.

 

[crazyforgoofy]

SOG is lovely, larger rooms than POR but if you're looking for Disney touches and POR is the alternative, I'd go POR. Actually I'd say PO-FQ as its my favorite but POR is great too. If you would happen to get a lousy room insist on moving to another.

 

[caseywirth]

I would have to disagree with most of you. The landscaping at SOG is beautiful, the rooms are a lot bigger, the pools are nice. I just don't understand this disney magic? Do they have mickey and different disney pictures everywhere, no, but it's all in what you make of it. I always feel the disney magic just being so close to the MK. SOG is a beautiful and very peaceful and relaxing resort and I would pick it any day over POR! Just my opinion...

 

[Nanato3kids]

I agree with Tigger 53. I just got back from the mansions. They have 6 pools, very relaxing. Our friends stayed at SOG. They liked the mansions better. We stayed at Oak Manor. Took the boat to DTD several times. I liked the atmosphere. It was truly magical. Have fun!!!!!!!