Just back from Dolphin & AKL...

[Mark P.]

Hi,
We also stayed the first night at the Grovesnor, too...Can't say we were thrilled with the Grovesnor, but the Dolphin and AKL were superb! I'd be glad to answer any questions, too

We spent 7 nights at the Dolphin, then the last 2 nights at the AKL.

Our room at the Dolphin was on the 7th. floor. It had a balcony, and had a perfect view of the BoardWalk and Epcot The professsional and courteous staff were great! It was a 20 min. walk to Epcot, and a 25 min. walk to MGM. We ate at Tubbi's, which was very nice, and also had a sundae at the Dolphin Fountain. It definately had a business-like feel, as there was a big convention while we were there, and it seemed as though we were the only vacationing folks there,lol. This didn't take away any of the "Disney feel" for us, but I think I can see how it can make one feel that way.

Our room at the AKL was on the Zebra Trail, and it had a wonderful view of the Savannah, and the animals there. We ate at Boma, which was awesome! We also listened to the story by the rock fire pit.

Both resorts were incredible, but I think that if the Swan/Dolphin continue to offer the Govt. rate of $129, I'll keep staying there, as there's more bang for my buck, imo

Again, I'd be glad to answer any questions that anyone might have

-Mark

 

[glo]

I am so glad you liked the Dolphin. I love the two resorts! That I know of there is no intention of getting rid of the goverment, nurse or teacher discount at this time!

 

[Gagebre]

We'll be there in May for 4 nights and wondered how you got the great view. Did you have to ask for it?

 

[Mark P.]

Hi Gagebre,
In our case, we had initially booked a standard view with the Govt. rate. We had sent a check by mail, and the check's routing number was read wrong at the Dolphin or somewhere on that end, and the check was sent back to me, and our reservation was cancelled, as the 10 day limit had passed. This was all a simple mistake, and luckily happened well before our trip (approx. 5 months prior), so I just phoned in my bank card # and rebooked. For my "trouble", I was then guaranteed a balcony room with a view of Epcot, which is what we got.

I have heard from many that both the Swan and Dolphin will commonly upgrade if rooms are available. To back this up, friends of ours were staying at the Swan last week, and were offered an upgrade to the Club Level. They had to decline because they prefer to be on the lower level, and the Club Level rooms are higher up.

Hope this answers your question

 

[minniesfriend]

Hi Mark,

We've stayed at Dolphin several times and love the location. There is so much to do there and many eating options. In April, we're staying for four nites at the AKL. I'm a bit worried we'll feel "secluded." How did you feel? How was AKL transportation?

Thanks!