How do some hotels justify the cost?

[Gillian]

I would say conventions & business travel are a big factor. There is a convention for the week in February that Brian mentioned, and the 2 area Courtyards are listed as hotel choices. When choosing a convention hotel, things people consider are brand and convenience. Courtyard being a Marriott brand might make it more popular for a frequent business traveller who tries to stay in the same type of hotel for points/status.

 

[CPM]

Not sure what this statement is about...but saving money at ANY time is important. We don't HAVE to nickel and dime everything, but we do...this is what is going to enable us to send our kids through college without borrowing and retiring early and comfortably...all depends what your priorities are...

Very true!
Like the same poster says they cook meals like they do at home when they rent a vacation home. That may be thier idea of a vacation, but not mine!
I have my priorities!!

 

[davinakb]

Interesting thread. Have stayed on and off property, and found off property gives better deals. (Do timeshare/villas now, awesome deal for the room, esp. for a big group.) Have AP/car so parking non-issue.

TOPIC: if a Value resort (or even the Coronado) was same $ as Courtyard... I would choose Courtyard. Actually I would check the FFI and Springhill rates (they have breakfast, which is actually quite decent) and the Suites give more room and an extra TV. Why?

IMO the MV hotels are nicer. I do not like the motel-style outdoor entry place for a hotel (timeshare/villa I can deal). Resort amenities are included: internet, work out room. I think the rooms are better (bigger/ better beds, linens, space); hotel is smaller, less crowded/noisy than Value; not into pool scene, hanging out in cool lobby so theme not important. Other good points mentioned: convenience to shopping, other parks, dining options; escape the 24/7 Disney thing.

Good point Gillian . For a while we stuck with the MV properties when we got good deals because we also did a lot of business travel, and racked up the hotel points; earned a few more "free" trips to WDW that way. Sure Hyatt/Starwood/Hilton members do too.

Other thing is the car: easier for shopping, other parks, another resort for dinner, faster than the buses. For us the convenience of the car is worth it, so that $ does not factor into hotel decision. FWIW.