Help With Last minute Vacation to Swan/Dolphin

[higgyman]

I am planning a last minute vacation for next week March 11 - 17. I would like to stay at either the Swan or Dolphin, just love the location. How would I go about getting the best rate? I am a State Gov't Employee. Also, we have two kids, youngest is 2 1/2, Which would be better for us Swan or Dolphin? Thanks for the help.

 

[Mouseteacher]

Welcome - higgyman

Call the S/D directly and ask for the gov rate = $129 plus resort fee. I personally like the Dolphin particulary with a young child since Tubbi's and the laundry are in the Dolphin. Although the Swan is just a hop, skip and a jump away. Good luck and let us know how you make out with the ressies.

 

[MichiganMommy]

We stayed at the swan last week with DS4 and DS7. The grotto pool is definitly closer to the Dolphin. Between the Swan and the pool is sand playground with a seal statue that squirts water. This is a lot of fun for the kids, but also makes them a sandy mess!

 

[Muffy]

We got back from the Dolphin 1/13 and LOVED it. Defiantly call the Dolphin and ask for the Gov. rate. Also check out www.starwood.com and join if you haven't already. Then put your membership number on your reservation at the Dolphin. You can possible ask for a comp upgrade. Good luck!

Muffy

 

[kda]

If you called the resorts direct and couldn't snag the gov't rate, check on the Dreams Unlimited site on these boards. You can go in and check availability of the discount rates. It seems that sometimes DU can get the rate, even when the resorts say they're sold out. Good luck! These are great places to stay and a great central location.

 

[Mitla96]

To check out availability on the Dreams Unlimited site, click on the Dreams Unlimited logo on the upper right hand side on the first page of DIS boards, then click on WDW, then on Orlando Area Hotels, then you will see the discounts for the Swan and Dolphin. If you can't get the hotel you want, if you call DU they can usually get it for you-and there is no extra cost.

Muffy is right, apply for the Starwood card. Even without points, they will probably give you an upgrade. We were upgraded from a limited view to a resort/lake view at the Swan.http://msnusers.com/corgifile/shoebox.msnw?action=ShowPhoto&PhotoID=19

A spur of the moment trip is definitely doable-we do it all the time! And how wonderful to be escaping this lousy unending Winter-you will have SUCH a good time!

 

[moymo]

Hi,
How exciting for you to get to go so soon! I have stayed at both the Dolphin and the Swan. The location cannot be beat especially if you can get that govt/teacher rate. One of the impressive things about these hotels is that alhough they are large, their halls are done in such a way that there isn't this interminable walk to your room every day. Dolphin is more convenient to the "fast food" Tubbi's and the pool. For us however, I have decided that I hate double beds for me and my hubby sooo much that we have been staying at the Swan. The Swan has queen beds, and it just makes for a much more comfortable night. This of course is personal preference. We have a king at home and I guess I am just not used to sensing anyone else's presence at night anymore. The 2 have different decors and such but this is the only practical difference I thought I would mention. Regardless, either hotel is just a gem for location and price with that discount.

Have fun!