How many of ya'll been "bitten" by the Concierge "bug"!

[ead79]

Hi everyone!

I am thrilled to report some GREAT news (2 things, actually). I am interviewing for a job this Friday morning! I had a pre-screening interview with a recruiter today, and she said that she heartily recommended me to the company, and they want to interview me. She also said that this position would provide a "step up" pay-wise, so that can't be bad, LOL! I'm a little concerned that this job may require more travel than I would like (I have a bit of a fear of flying), but I am definitely excited to interview for it and hear about the job details. Keep me in your prayers that the Lord will lead me to this job IF it is the right one for me. Thank you all so much for your support!

And my 2nd piece of GREAT news is....drumroll please.... I'M GOING TO DISNEY WORLD!!! The idea of a super quick weekend getaway to WDW crossed my mind this morning (we have 2 weeks left on our annual passes), and my DH was really excited about going. I decided that if we really stuck to our budget we could probably swing a tightly budgeted trip. Well, I am telling my parents about this tonight, and I thought my dad would think I was crazy for doing this when I am still job searching. Well, he blew my socks off! I couldn't believe it when he said that he has some extra money from working overtime, and the amount is identical to the amount we were budgeting for the trip. My wonderful dad is paying for our trip! He said that there is nothing he could do with the extra money that would mean as much to him as making me happy. He said that we have been under a lot of stress lately, and he simply wants to do this for us. I have the most wonderful, caring, selfless parents in the world, and I am grateful to the Lord for them! I have known that my whole life, so I guess my dad's generousity should surprise me anymore, but it still brings tears to my eyes!

So, we are going on a weekend getaway at the All Star Music resort (I wonder which building we'll get) May 15-17. We will get to see the Flower & Garden Festival, and have a stress-free weekend. I'm so excited! I've never booked a trip and been in the single digits on the same day, LOL! Plus, we were even able to get an AP discount this late in the game.

 

[WoodysRoundup]

We leave Friday morning and I just can't wait!!!!!!

:space:

Didn't get too much packing done today so tomorrow will be the big push!!! Hope I remember the little things...sippy cups, phone charger, sunglasses, etc. etc...

For those who asked about CL and diapers.....I received a response today via email. It's too late for us, but here's a good idea. You can ship items (UPS or whatever) ahead of time to the resort concierge. Perfect for diapers. Otherwise, you can purchase in the hotel gift shop (or concierge will purchase for you and have it in your room upon arrival). The less expensive option is that CL will arrange for Turner Drugs to also have the diapers sent over. Money-wise, it is more expensive so it's up to the individual to decide if it's worth the convenience. IMO, I think it is.

Hi Fred, steveanddonna and luckywife....not long for you either!!!

BambiTamby....funny story about your DS and his undies!!

Off to bed.....tomorrow's a busy day!!!

to all you lizards....new and old!!!!

 

[WoodysRoundup]

We posted at the same time....CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR UPCOMING TRIP AND ON THE INTERVIEW!!!

 

[fran99999]

EAD79... Have a great trip. Wear your Disney smile and the interview will be a breeze.

I have a question? Recently changed to AKL CL. Was thinking of the Safari. What is the difference between the Sunrise and Sunset Safari? Yes I know time LOL. Also What is the difference in this and the Backstage safari @$65? Or is it the same?

I want to take me 2 DD's 16. They are interested in the health care and are thinking maybe animals over people.

Also it seems I should get moving on PS for the Pirate Cruise for DS5 and Simba clubhouse. How to have CL CM do it for me if they dont contact me until almost time to leave. I was told the Safari and certain PS were hard to get.

Do I call ressies again? Im so confused. I made up my plan now I dont know what to do with them. Any help would be appreciated.

 

[eclipseSD]

Thanks for all the help. Got Sugar Loaf with the 5/7 for $3442, which includes 3 UPHs. Really great deal here. This is the longest I have ever stayed on property, so concierge should be a real plus.

When I want to make a room request (ex - a lodge tower room in Sugar Loaf), do I phone/e-mail the concierge whenever I want, or do I fax the main desk 4 days before my trip? I am still knew to this whole IPO concept, and really want to take full advantage as far as PS's and the like go.

What I would really like to do is surpise my family with the Cinderella's slipper dessert, but I would like to do it without eating at 1900 Park Fare. Can I simply inform concierge of my request and have them bring it up at a specified time?

 

[goodferry]

Hi guys!!
Elisabeth--great news all around! Good luck on your interview and have a great trip. Give your dad an extra hug, what a nice thing for him to do!
fran99999- I haven't stayed at AKL, however, I know that the sunset safari is more of an adult thing, there is an age limit, although I am not sure what it is. You can contact the concierge office via email or phone with your requests and they will get you started. I contacted the Poly concierge as soon as we switched and she emailed me a form to fill out as opposed to mailing it to me. I am sure when BT drops in she will have more advice for you!
Woody--mailing a package ahead of time is a great idea!! I have a feeling the munchkins will protest a grocery stop if it is delaying their arrival at Disney!!

 

[mom_rules]

ead79-firstly, thanks so much for the review. Do you think 5 adults would be comfortable in a GS at BW? or a little too crowded?

And secondly, Congrats on the interview and on you upcoming trip (please....please.....please take me with you!! I promise to be good and not make a nuisance of myself)

 

[Tedmom]

Originally posted by teentoddlermom
Sorry to bust in year not having read all 100 or so pages in this thread, but can a friendly DISer give me suggestions on what concierge to pick..BWI, YC or BC?? We loved GF Sugar Loaf last August, and we're returning this August. Best Lounge, most recently renovated, nicest staff, etc.???

Thanks so much

We're just back from a split AKL CL and BC CL visit and did not think very highly of the concierge lounge at the BC CL. The food offerings in the evenings were mainly cheese and crackers with dip and they did not have soft drinks or chocolate milk out. You had to ask the mysterious people behind the counter (who were often MIA) for a soft drink or chocolate milk if you wanted one. If you didn't already have this "inside" info, you would never even know this was available for you. The lounge is on the small side and only has tables and chairs vs. sofas and arm chairs. The lounge also has limited hours and closes for periods during the day. However, we loved the AKL CL. The lounge is huge, has ample, comfortable seating on sofas, arm chairs and tables with chairs. The lounge is also open all day, has softdrinks and milk cartons available all the time in a fridge for self-service and the food offerings are out of this world. They have interesting South African wines and you can also request African beers from the staff. The concierge staff at the AKL CL is extremely helpful and accommodating. We will definitely be going back to AKL CL, but will not be going back to the BC CL, even though the pool is fabulous at BC. HTH

 

[floridafam]

ead79,

How wonderful!!!!! Have a great trip.

 

[Tedmom]

Originally posted by VAgal76
WELCOME BACK, TEDMOM!

I'm sorry BC didn't pan out like you had planned. BTW, did you happen to see if they could give you another room since it was not satisfactory?

[

I let the stains on the carpet and bedcovers go since we were only there for 2 days and I didn't want the hassle of moving. I noticed that the rugs were stained in the hallways and in the concierge lobby too. Since we always take the bedcovers off and the sheets were clean, we let it go. We did love the pool at the BC and liked the close proximity to Epcot, the Boardwalk and MGM, so I don't want it to sound like it was a total disaster by any means. Had we stayed there first rather than the AKL CL, we probably wouldn't have felt so bad. We were absolutely spoiled rotten by the AKL CL and so loved the whole experience there that anything else probably won't measure up to AKL.

 

[VAgal76]

ead79 - What wonderful news! That was really awesome of your Dad to help financially. Then to top it off, an interview tomorrow. Things on are the up & up for you!

Big welcome to teentoddlermom! Sorry, I'm not help in decision making....I'm sure others will put in their votes a little later.

Woodysroundup - Well, it's time to start it off (singing) "Happy trails to you until we meet again! Happy Trails to you!!!"

TedMom - I'm glad you didn't let it completely spoil your time as many other people probably would have.

 

[blowinbubbles]

Originally posted by ead79
Hi everyone!

I am thrilled to report some GREAT news (2 things, actually). I am interviewing for a job this Friday morning! <SNIP>


And my 2nd piece of GREAT news is....drumroll please.... I'M GOING TO DISNEY WORLD!!! The idea of a super quick weekend getaway to WDW crossed my mind this morning (we have 2 weeks left on our annual passes), and my DH was really excited about going. I decided that if we really stuck to our budget we could probably swing a tightly budgeted trip. Well, I am telling my parents about this tonight, and I thought my dad would think I was crazy for doing this when I am still job searching. Well, he blew my socks off! I couldn't believe it when he said that he has some extra money from working overtime, and the amount is identical to the amount we were budgeting for the trip. My wonderful dad is paying for our trip! He said that there is nothing he could do with the extra money that would mean as much to him as making me happy. He said that we have been under a lot of stress lately, and he simply wants to do this for us. I have the most wonderful, caring, selfless parents in the world, and I am grateful to the Lord for them! I have known that my whole life, so I guess my dad's generousity should surprise me anymore, but it still brings tears to my eyes!

So, we are going on a weekend getaway at the All Star Music resort (I wonder which building we'll get) May 15-17. We will get to see the Flower & Garden Festival, and have a stress-free weekend. I'm so excited! I've never booked a trip and been in the single digits on the same day, LOL! Plus, we were even able to get an AP discount this late in the game.

Elizabeth, Congratulations and Good luck on your job interview! How exciting! About the flying. . I'm the same as you. . don't like to fly that much. I think the best thing to do is, do it a lot and you'll get used to it!

And what a great idea, having a quickie WDW trip! I guess that's the beauty of having APs, right?

The Flower & Garden Festival. . I got to see a little of it, that is before my son had a meltdown and we had to leave! LOL! But what I saw, was beautiful! Have fun!

 

[blowinbubbles]

Originally posted by fran99999
EAD79... Have a great trip. Wear your Disney smile and the interview will be a breeze.

I have a question? Recently changed to AKL CL. Was thinking of the Safari. What is the difference between the Sunrise and Sunset Safari? Yes I know time LOL. Also What is the difference in this and the Backstage safari @$65? Or is it the same?

Fran, I've never been on the sunrise/sunset safari, seein' as how I haven't stayed at AKL--yet--, but I would think that the sunrise would have much more active and frisky animals, being first think in the morning. . what do y'all think?

 

[ead79]

Thank you so much, everyone! My parents really are the most selfless, generous people I know. My dad has always been a wonderful example of generousity, and yet he never ceases to surprise me!

I am very excited about the interview of course! I will update you guys when it's over.

mom_rules, I don't think that the garden suites can sleep 5 adults. I'm pretty sure it's a max of four adults. There is 1 king bed upstairs and one queen sleeper sofa downstairs, so I don't think there would be a place for the 5th adult to sleep.

 

[VAgal76]

Fran9999 - I'm sorry, I missed your safari question! Your DD's are 16 so they'd be able to do sunset safari. Cost is higher for sunset, but I hear it's totally worth it. After reading some details & speaking to BambiTamby I felt the cost was justified. Do not misinterpret me because BOTH OF THEM ARE GREAT!!! Sunrise is $50 per person (child is cheaper @ $30 each) & Sunset is $150 per person. Sunset is limited to 8 people total in a group & sunrise I believe takes 28 people max (lizards, let me know if this isn't right - going off memory here which seems to be a little fuzzy this morning). Breakfast with Sunrise at the "School House" and dinner at Jiko's for sunset . These are just a few major points. BambiTamby I believe has done both & could give you more info on them. #1HockeyMom has done sunrise as well & loved it. I'm sure there are other lizards that have done one or the other & could chime in for more details also. You might want to try to PM BambiTamby for more details. I'm sure she would LOVE to give you the full scoop!

BT pulled a few strings so we could do sunset safari together. I feel incredibly lucky & I'm so excited. Next time we go (I'm sure AKL will become our home base), we'll do sunrise.

I'm sure either one you would love, but let us know what you end up doing!

 

[BambiTamby]

We were absolutely spoiled rotten by the AKL CL and so loved the whole experience there that anything else probably won't measure up to AKL

I couldn't have said it any better, Tedmom!
But, we didn't notice the stains in CL and our room was very nice and clean. And the BC CL did have alot of food offerings.
And very good ones, too.
You are right about the times....they close to clean up and replace the food throughout the day.
Strange....whenever BT walks into the CL, they are hopping to wait on me. Offering me water, sodas, etc.....
maybe it was because of the YC CL mixup and they were being very accomodating to me.

Now is a time to say this again, lizards!
If you don't see what you want or have any needs to be met...
please ask!

teentoddlermom....WELCOME to the LIZARD LOUNGE!
Haven't stayed at BWI CL, but we've stayed at the BWV and BWI regular room. While the BW has a wondeful pool for your
teen and toddler (I figured since your user name?) , it is quite a walk from the BWI side.
The Harbor Club (childcare) is wonderful and we enjoyed all the adult options at night on the BW...mainly Jellyrolls.
PLUS, I've heard nothing but raves about the BWI CL!
Very plush, lots of pampering......

Now....the YC/BC CL....I would go with the YC CL...
great pool and food offerings, perfect for picky eaters and bottomless pit teens!
The YC CL, I feel, is a little closer to the action.....
go down the elevator and you're near the SAB pool entrance, and nearer the boat for MGM and Epcot.
Wonderful character breakfast at Cape May's and the clambake is very good, alot of bang for the buck!

Thus, my personal vote out of the three would be the YC CL.


I posted some pictures of the YC/BC CL and rooms a couple of pages back, please feel free to look at them.

mom_rules...Even though we haven't stayed there yet, I feel it might be too crowded. I was told the GS is for four.
King bed upstairs and a queen sleeper sofa downstairs.
Hopefully Elizabeth will clear this up!

eclipseSD...so happy for your good fortune on getting the GF SL at such a great deal!
Make your requests on your reservation PLUS call the IPO directly.
Numbers....407-824-1775 and 934-4438 are the ones I have on file.

fran99999...Welcome back!
There is a differnce between the AKL CL sunrise and backstage safari....the AKL CL one is better!
OK, same vehicles, but the sunrise is very early when they are releasing the animals back onto the safari and there is alot of activity. And the breakfast at Tusker's is WOW!!!!
usually it is one of the HEAD chefs that prepare this special spread, and can NOT come close to the backstage tour dinner.

The Wanyama (sunset) safari I can NOT stop raving about!
Since your DD's are 16 and interested in animals,
THIS is the TOUR to do! Without a doubt!
I have some AKL Wanyama pics a couple of pages back for you to view, also!
The Wanyama safai is very intimate, only 8 lucky people, in a special "pop-top" custom van, that goes into the back of the AKL's three savannahs. You also to get to hear alot about the history of each of the animals, their habitats,etc....
Loved it so much in March that we are going back and taking my parents on it next month...and VAgal and her family will be joining us.
Since we're booking the whole van,
and I know so many of the staff....hehehe! I wonder why? VAgal and I we're able to take our DS's , 8 and 13.

And the meal at Jiko's is awesome!
Maybe I need to scan and download my menu and post it here!
And Annette Grecchi came out between each course and explained the different foods and their ethnic and culinary stories!
Plus, she autographed my menu!
I've been following her since she worked at California Grill, headed up Narcoosee's and then was given the Head chef position at AKL. I just LOVE her "cooking"!

Give Sue or Andrea a call/email and let them know your requests,
as they are two of the BEST IPO CMs on property.

to everyone else and have a fabulous day!

 

[k&a&c'smom]

Elisabeth - I'm so excited for you and your job interview - you will do a great interview, I just know it!! And, I have to tell you, when you posted that your Dad couldn't make himself any happier with that money than to see you happy, I got choked up!! What a wonderful, generous man he must be! Have a great time, isn't it wonderful to plan a short, quick trip like that?!

Fran99999 - You can email AKL CL with any requests you have, that address is wdw.aklodge.concierge@disney.com. I haven't done either Safari, but the Backstage Safari is open to everyone, and goes behind the scenes at AK, no food involved, I think. The Sunrise Safari is only open to concierge guests, you do an extended Kilimanjaro Safari, and have a breakfast buffet at Tuskers afterward. The Wanyama Safari is in the evening, it's for only 8 people, it tours the AKL savannas, and afterward you eat dinner at Jiko, and this is 16 & up. Bambi can give you more info!!

eclipseSD - You only have to make your wishes known to concierge, and Voila! they will happen!! I do not have any idea about the slipper question, anyone?!

Edited to add: I see we all posted at the same time, BT gave a wonderful description for you, as usual!!

 

[BambiTamby]

OOps! Forgot the slipper!

Yes! Tell IPO CL that you want that dessert at 1900 Park Fare!
Of course, they'll tell you that it'll be extra..ladadada.....
Just tell them that you want it anyways!
I would treat it like a cake/special dietary request...which you can do for any restaurant!

Infact, we're doing the huge sampler dessert platter for our Grand 1 cruise....and 4 slippers will be on that as well as other desserts!

The world of concierge is your "oyster"....indulge yourselves!

 

[dreamflight99]

Bambi~Your RAVES about the AKL Sunset Safari has my fingers poised over the phones..ready to DIAL & RESERVE!

We too LOVE Annette...and agree she was the BEST at the Cali Grill! We have to DO Jiko this summer, and speak with her. Hopefully..she'll leave her SIG on my menu too!

Valgal...~I wish I were going on the Safari w/BT and you! My DD (16) would LOVE it...as she is an animal lover...through & through. She's also a vegan (no meat, etc.)...which I admire immensely. Both DH & I are still lowly carnivores...and can not get ourselves to let-go of BEEF. We enjoy the Tri-Tip/Rib Eyes on the BBQ too much. Poor DD...she never complains...or makes comments. She's a sweetie.

ead79~I'm awaiting the news of the interview~! You are indeed fortunate to have such loving and thoughtful folks. Mine are the same...and I love them dearly. I wish they would visit us in WDW...but they detest summers in Florida, and are true-blue SNOWBIRDS! They travel down from NY to FLA each Jan...and stay a couple of months. Then...head back to the Big Apple.


floridafam~Continued...good thoughts and prayers for your little DS. :happy2: Please, post any news relating to his tests, etc. He is on my mind, and in my "Angel" wishes. Keep thinking positively. My heart is with you.

goodferry~The age limit on the sunset safari is GREAT NEWS! It seems like it should be a more "mature" setting, (subdued & quiet). I've read SO many posts about "crying" children on the SUNRISE safari. It's the one reason we were not too "hip" on staying AKL, and taking the safari. I love children...but would not subject others (trapped on a tour) to the morning fatigue and wails of my toddler (as some reportedly have)! I would be too embarrassed to continue (if my child began to fuss/cry) and would definitely opt-out!

eclipseSD~What a deal! Wow...SL for 7-days W/UPH for $3442!! You must be EXCITED!


fran99999~Kudos to your DD's, for considering Animal care/health as a profession. We have the BEST/TOP Vet school in the Nation (UCDAVIS) here in No. Calif. Our DD has several friends attending, and they LOVE it (school/campus life).
If you take the Sunset Safari...please PM me upon your return (with details, etc.). TIA!

blowinbubbles~ Thanks for the nod (w/regards to the WEALTHY perspective!). In light of the events of the past week...it serves as a reminder of how FORTUNATE we all are, and how PRECIOUS life is! Enjoy the day...and every moment.

*DCL announced the plans for the SPECIAL Western Cruise yesterday...and the ships are 1/2 SO~! I'm experiencing trouble "confirming" anything...due to the delays in response (DU is SWAMPED!). Hours on the phone yesterday...produced little in the way of progress. I'm hoping for a 14-day, or 7-day in a suite...but heard they were all pre-sold/reserved! Keep your fingers crossed. At this point...I'd take a DINGY with a rope tied to the Stern!! LOL.

TTFN...DF99

 

[VAgal76]

DF - Maybe BT can sneak you on with us on that safari . She's got friends in low and high places . "I'd take a DINGY with a rope tied to the Stern!!" - LOL, DF! Sending an ambudance of PD your way! BTW, can you sneak me in on that cruise ? I'm dying to go on a cruise...it looks so awesome! They really make it hard for people like me, the ones that want to do it all!