I must be a control freak!!!

[3happydancers]

We are staying at AKL, club level for the very first time in August. While making a request with the Planning Desk (not sure what their title is) to make reservations for the Pirate Cruise, I learned that they could also make my dining reservations. So, I go ahead and give them our choices of restaurants we would like to dine in and times, thanked them for their help and hung up.

NOW, I am questioning whether or not my requests will get botched up and MAYBE, I should do this myself like always so I know it is done right. I am second guessing allowing someone else to book all my activities and dining needs. The flip side is that it would sure be nice not to have to be up at the crack of dawn and on the computer or phone trying to book dining, etc.

Has anyone else used this service and NOT be happy or had problems? I really need to know!

 

[Rochester Disney Fan]

I called member services today for my upcoming August trip. I had them make the reservation for Disney's Pirate Adventure for my 2 kids as well as my 9 different Dinner reservations.I got a confirmation number for each at the end of the conversation. I use member services for this all the time.

 

[vicki_c]

I think the OP is talking about the Itinerary Planning Office that club level guests have access to, not Member Services. If that's the case, we have used the IPO (not AKL, but Poly) multiple times to make our ADRs and they have done a great job. It's part of what you're paying for (whether in cash or extra points for CL), so I figure you might as well use the perk. Other than the lounge food, you don't get a lot of other extras from club level. So I would let them do it unless it's going to make you so crazy that you're not in control (I also am a control freak, but had no issue with that).

The IPO people don't get early access to ADRs or anything but they've always been able to get me what I wanted at 180 days out. They are not the same staff that is actually in the club level area or lounge. I can't remember if the AKL IPO office is shared with another resort or not, but normally they do (like Poly shares with WL and GF shares with the Contemporary, or something like that).

 

[timandlesley]

We had no problem. I'm a control freak too but was so relieved when they emailed me the itinerary with all of the dining locations and times that I requested - it was soooooo nice and easy !
Lesley

 

[3happydancers]

I think the OP is talking about the Itinerary Planning Office that club level guests have access to, not Member Services. If that's the case, we have used the IPO (not AKL, but Poly) multiple times to make our ADRs and they have done a great job. It's part of what you're paying for (whether in cash or extra points for CL), so I figure you might as well use the perk. Other than the lounge food, you don't get a lot of other extras from club level. So I would let them do it unless it's going to make you so crazy that you're not in control (I also am a control freak, but had no issue with that).

The IPO people don't get early access to ADRs or anything but they've always been able to get me what I wanted at 180 days out. They are not the same staff that is actually in the club level area or lounge. I can't remember if the AKL IPO office is shared with another resort or not, but normally they do (like Poly shares with WL and GF shares with the Contemporary, or something like that).

We had no problem. I'm a control freak too but was so relieved when they emailed me the itinerary with all of the dining locations and times that I requested - it was soooooo nice and easy !
Lesley

Yes, it is the IPO I was referring to. I did not know the proper title, but I am so happy to hear from others who have had positive experiences. My biggest fear is receiving the promised email with alternate adr's or not getting reservations for dinner shows and the Pirates Cruise that was requested. I have never used this service and it sounded too good to be true. I love the idea of "nice and easy". I guess I will have to let go and see what happens.
Thanks for sharing some positive feedback!!!

 

[3happydancers]

OK, I have to admit, tomorrow is the big day and I am a bit nervous. I think I am more so because the reservation includes some for friends who are staying with us and I'd feel terrible if things got messed up.

 

[bobbiwoz]

If it can be had, the Concierge will get what you need. I've used their services each of the 3 times we've had that sort of stay, and everything was perfect! My F&G stay with my DSis is CL and again, the itinerary is just what I asked for.

Bobbi

 

[mdsd8700]

We have never stayed club level on DVC points but have done it a few times on cash reservations (before owning DVC) and the best perk had to be having all my reservations made for me. I too was leary the first time as I am a complete control freak! However everything worked out great, never a problem. They even e-mailed me with my complete itinerary with dates, locations, times and confirmation numbers!

I think you will be pleased with the service! Enjoy.

 

[3happydancers]

Thanks guys, you all know exactly how I feel. You know, it being my first time and letting go-not so easy. I knew I could count on the diser's! I'll keep you posted.

 

[3happydancers]

***Update***

I received an email from IPO very early this morning, and you were all right!!!! They did a terrific job with planning all of my dining needs and special activities. ( May I add that we are staying for 12 days so the IPO had many reservations to make. )

 

[dianeschlicht]

IPO can work magic that you can't. We have LOVED using their service.

 

[3happydancers]

IPO can work magic that you can't. We have LOVED using their service.

I am so glad this part of our planning is nearly complete. I have 1 more reservation for the HDDR that the IPO could not assist with because I am moving to another resort.

At least now I know I can count on the IPO for future stays and no worries!