Just Back from POFQ
- Thread starter KGrinnell
- Start date
Hi - I'm so glad you had a great trip but have just a few questions (really lots).
1) How was the food court? Selection? etc. (It has been remodeled since we were there)
2) How was your room? Condition of the room? Cleanliness when you checked in? Housekeeping on a daily basis?
3) How was the bus transportation? Did they run a separate bus to parks in the morning just from POFQ or did you still share with POR? How about in the evenings?
That is it for the moment. We love this resort and were so disappointed last year when it was closed -- but we still had a great trip -- my son can't wait to visit the alligators -- he is so glad they are back from vacation this year.
1) How was the food court? Selection? etc. (It has been remodeled since we were there)
2) How was your room? Condition of the room? Cleanliness when you checked in? Housekeeping on a daily basis?
3) How was the bus transportation? Did they run a separate bus to parks in the morning just from POFQ or did you still share with POR? How about in the evenings?
That is it for the moment. We love this resort and were so disappointed last year when it was closed -- but we still had a great trip -- my son can't wait to visit the alligators -- he is so glad they are back from vacation this year.
I just got back from POR last night. Everything was great! Food court was good. The refillable mugs were just for the resort, not 100 year cups. We lucked out ALL week, the longest we waited for any ride was 15 minutes. Walked into all the restaurants (Rainforest Cafe , Captain Jacks just to name a few). And even got bumped to First class on the way home! Buses to the park stopped in FQ first, stopped in Riverside and then to the park. On the way back they again stopped in FQ first and then onto RS. The rooms were good, no complaints at all. Daily service and they respected the privacy sign until we were out for the day. I can't wait to go back!
I'll try to answer the best I can
For Michael H: The food court was very good. For breakfast you had choices of Mickey Mouse waffles, omelettes, breakfast sandwiches on croissants or bagels, simple toast, cinnamon stix, eggs, bacon, sausage, biscuits and gravy, grilled ham and cheese sandwich, pastries, etc. Make sure you buy the refillable mug - it really is worth it. We actually saw three types of mugs - two that probably held the same amount and then a child's size.
For lunch and dinner they had an assortment. The usual chicken strips and fries, cheeseburger and double cheeseburger, chicken quesadillas (very good), chicken caesar salads and a grilled chicken salad, spaghetti and meatballs, chicken parmesian and pizza. I'm sure there were other choices as well. The employees kept the food court very clean and the people that work there were very nice.
For TNK: We noticed that people had other mugs but they looked like older POR mugs and they used them without trouble. We didn't notice the 100-year mugs.
There were crowds, but then again, we usually stay during the first or second week in September and it's very quiet at that time (we never have to wait for a ride). This time, however, the longest we had to wait was for about 20 minutes, and again, if there were lines we used the fastpass. My husband was very happy to see that the haunted mansion was open from rehab (as well as the test track!).
Our room was very nice, although the carpet is worn, but clean (and I'm very picky about cleanliness!). They do change the sheets regularly as well as the comforters (we noticed). We rented a fridge (we packed small waters in a roll along suitcase - we're not fond of the water they have at the parks so that we would have a suitcase for gifts. We do this every year when we go to Disney). Housekeeping left extra towels and even though you might think leaving the tip on a daily basis is a better idea, it adds nothing to your service, which is very good. If you have requests for a particular building/room, make sure you fax it a few days before. It really works.
We lucked out on transportation. It seemed as though as soon as we walked up to the bus stop, the bus was there!! BUT, the buses were very crowded and in some situations, people were standing (particularly on Saturday night at Magic Kingdom for the fireworks). We did take the boat ride to Downtown Disney, which was very nice and relaxing. Buses are still shared with POR, but it's very nice that POFQ is the first pickup in the morning and the first to be dropped off - it makes a big difference at the end of a very long and busy day!!!
Also, the pool stays open until midnight, which was great We stayed at YC/BC twice and the pool closed at 8:00 pm each time!!!! I can tell you that the people who work and the people who stay at the POFQ were very nice. We will definitely stay here again (next year perhaps??) We did hear that they are going to rename the resort French Quarter with the t-shirts stating that (right now there is no separation with t-shirts and souvenirs between POR and POFQ). I do think it would also be in their best interest to have separate buses, again, because of the crowds, and wouldn't be surprised if they do make that decision.
I really can't say enough about the people at the resort. They were extremely accommodating and the resort grounds were beautiful!
If you can think of anything else that we can answer for you, just let me know - we had sooo much fun
KGrinnell
For Michael H: The food court was very good. For breakfast you had choices of Mickey Mouse waffles, omelettes, breakfast sandwiches on croissants or bagels, simple toast, cinnamon stix, eggs, bacon, sausage, biscuits and gravy, grilled ham and cheese sandwich, pastries, etc. Make sure you buy the refillable mug - it really is worth it. We actually saw three types of mugs - two that probably held the same amount and then a child's size.
For lunch and dinner they had an assortment. The usual chicken strips and fries, cheeseburger and double cheeseburger, chicken quesadillas (very good), chicken caesar salads and a grilled chicken salad, spaghetti and meatballs, chicken parmesian and pizza. I'm sure there were other choices as well. The employees kept the food court very clean and the people that work there were very nice.
For TNK: We noticed that people had other mugs but they looked like older POR mugs and they used them without trouble. We didn't notice the 100-year mugs.
There were crowds, but then again, we usually stay during the first or second week in September and it's very quiet at that time (we never have to wait for a ride). This time, however, the longest we had to wait was for about 20 minutes, and again, if there were lines we used the fastpass. My husband was very happy to see that the haunted mansion was open from rehab (as well as the test track!).
Our room was very nice, although the carpet is worn, but clean (and I'm very picky about cleanliness!). They do change the sheets regularly as well as the comforters (we noticed). We rented a fridge (we packed small waters in a roll along suitcase - we're not fond of the water they have at the parks so that we would have a suitcase for gifts. We do this every year when we go to Disney). Housekeeping left extra towels and even though you might think leaving the tip on a daily basis is a better idea, it adds nothing to your service, which is very good. If you have requests for a particular building/room, make sure you fax it a few days before. It really works.
We lucked out on transportation. It seemed as though as soon as we walked up to the bus stop, the bus was there!! BUT, the buses were very crowded and in some situations, people were standing (particularly on Saturday night at Magic Kingdom for the fireworks). We did take the boat ride to Downtown Disney, which was very nice and relaxing. Buses are still shared with POR, but it's very nice that POFQ is the first pickup in the morning and the first to be dropped off - it makes a big difference at the end of a very long and busy day!!!
Also, the pool stays open until midnight, which was great
We stayed at YC/BC twice and the pool closed at 8:00 pm each time!!!! I can tell you that the people who work and the people who stay at the POFQ were very nice. We will definitely stay here again (next year perhaps??) We did hear that they are going to rename the resort French Quarter with the t-shirts stating that (right now there is no separation with t-shirts and souvenirs between POR and POFQ). I do think it would also be in their best interest to have separate buses, again, because of the crowds, and wouldn't be surprised if they do make that decision.I really can't say enough about the people at the resort. They were extremely accommodating and the resort grounds were beautiful!
If you can think of anything else that we can answer for you, just let me know - we had sooo much fun
KGrinnell
ChiTownZee
"You have no idea what I'm capable of."-Evil Queen
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- 2,169
Sounds great! We'll be checking in on Wed.! 
We'll be staying at POFQ in December and haven't heard too much about it. It was really nice reading your comments -- we are looking forward to our stay. I did have two minor questions:
1. My husband is a Patriots fan. On the Monday night that we are there, the Pats game is on MNF. Is there a place at the resort where he can watch the game, other than in our room? We are heading home very early on Tuesday and I'd like it if the kids could get some sleep (without him keeping them up watching a silly football game). I've read that there is a restaurant at POFQ -- do they have a bar where he could catch part of the game? I know it's a silly question but he takes these games a little seriously. He mentioned that our trip (Dec 12-17th) is right during the playoff hunt.
2. How early do the buses run? If we have a PS at AK at 8:10 a.m., (Donald's Breakfastsaurus) could we take the bus and make it on time or would you suggest a taxi?
That's all I can think of right now. I'm so glad you posted!
Thanks!!!!
1. My husband is a Patriots fan. On the Monday night that we are there, the Pats game is on MNF. Is there a place at the resort where he can watch the game, other than in our room? We are heading home very early on Tuesday and I'd like it if the kids could get some sleep (without him keeping them up watching a silly football game). I've read that there is a restaurant at POFQ -- do they have a bar where he could catch part of the game? I know it's a silly question but he takes these games a little seriously. He mentioned that our trip (Dec 12-17th) is right during the playoff hunt.
2. How early do the buses run? If we have a PS at AK at 8:10 a.m., (Donald's Breakfastsaurus) could we take the bus and make it on time or would you suggest a taxi?
That's all I can think of right now. I'm so glad you posted!
Thanks!!!!
Fox and Hound -
From my experiences I would recommend that you take a taxi for an 8:10 ressie. You might be able to take a bus IF they start running at 7am. But, if I were you and still at the bus stop at 7:30am I would go to the bell station and ask them to call you a taxi. They sit right there in the far end of the parking lot so you would have one in a matter of minutes. Sometimes the bus runs on time and other times it does not. Just a suggestion.
Before Scats Lounge - the bar did have a TV in it, as I recall. But, since it was closed last year it has been awhile since we were there. Hopefully someone else will know.
We used to be Patriots football fans but are following the Buffalo Bills now. After my DH coached college/hs for 16 years, though, I can take it or leave it. But, I do like to watch when I know someone playing. Otherwise ... having it on in the lounge rather than my room sounds like a really good idea.
Hopefully someone will have the answer for you soon.
From my experiences I would recommend that you take a taxi for an 8:10 ressie. You might be able to take a bus IF they start running at 7am. But, if I were you and still at the bus stop at 7:30am I would go to the bell station and ask them to call you a taxi. They sit right there in the far end of the parking lot so you would have one in a matter of minutes. Sometimes the bus runs on time and other times it does not. Just a suggestion.
Before Scats Lounge - the bar did have a TV in it, as I recall. But, since it was closed last year it has been awhile since we were there. Hopefully someone else will know.
We used to be Patriots football fans but are following the Buffalo Bills now. After my DH coached college/hs for 16 years, though, I can take it or leave it. But, I do like to watch when I know someone playing. Otherwise ... having it on in the lounge rather than my room sounds like a really good idea.
Hopefully someone will have the answer for you soon.
Thank you, dcedwards, for your advice. We will definitely plan to take a taxi that morning. We're traveling with a 4 yr old and 1 yr old, so I'm trying not to plan too much, but it helps to be prepared and armed with a little knowledge beforehand.
I'm trying to plan a little fun for all three kids -- my two DSs AND my husband. We'll check into Before Scats Lounge. BTW, DH is a closet Bills fan since Doug Flutie QB'd there a few years ago. Now, of course, he's following Drew Bledsoe. He likes Tom Brady as QB for the Pats, but still has great admiration for DB.
Thanks again!
I'm trying to plan a little fun for all three kids -- my two DSs AND my husband. We'll check into Before Scats Lounge. BTW, DH is a closet Bills fan since Doug Flutie QB'd there a few years ago. Now, of course, he's following Drew Bledsoe. He likes Tom Brady as QB for the Pats, but still has great admiration for DB.
Thanks again!
Fox & Hound
That is why we follow the Bills now. We've known Drew and the family since he was in high school. It is fun to watch when you know someone -- other than that I can take it or leave it.
Your 4 year old will really enjoy the pool at POFQ. The slide is great for younger kids...isn't too long or too fast. And there is a nice kiddie pool right by the big pool. There is also a nice playground for the 4 year old that is in the middle of the complex.
And knowing that you are traveling with two kids I would definitely plan to take the taxi. That way you can leave yourself plenty of time to walk from where the taxi (or bus) drops you off to get to the entrance. It isn't a quick walk. Also, keep in mind that since taxis are public transportation kids are not required to be in car seats so you will have to use the seatbelts in the taxi. They won't have a car seat -- unless perhaps you request it the day before ( I don't know how that works with cabs - we've only used a service but that is spendy ... not sure if it is close to the price of the cab or not.)
Plus, once you get inside the park you will still have a ways to walk to get to Donalds' Breakfasourous (which is where I assume you are going.) Keep in mind that you have to walk through lots of birds and animals and 4 year olds get distracted pretty easily so it might not hurt to be there a bit ahead of time.
We will be at POFQ Nov. 30-Dec 10 ... perhaps our paths will cross?
That is why we follow the Bills now. We've known Drew and the family since he was in high school. It is fun to watch when you know someone -- other than that I can take it or leave it.
Your 4 year old will really enjoy the pool at POFQ. The slide is great for younger kids...isn't too long or too fast. And there is a nice kiddie pool right by the big pool. There is also a nice playground for the 4 year old that is in the middle of the complex.
And knowing that you are traveling with two kids I would definitely plan to take the taxi. That way you can leave yourself plenty of time to walk from where the taxi (or bus) drops you off to get to the entrance. It isn't a quick walk. Also, keep in mind that since taxis are public transportation kids are not required to be in car seats so you will have to use the seatbelts in the taxi. They won't have a car seat -- unless perhaps you request it the day before ( I don't know how that works with cabs - we've only used a service but that is spendy ... not sure if it is close to the price of the cab or not.)
Plus, once you get inside the park you will still have a ways to walk to get to Donalds' Breakfasourous (which is where I assume you are going.) Keep in mind that you have to walk through lots of birds and animals and 4 year olds get distracted pretty easily so it might not hurt to be there a bit ahead of time.
We will be at POFQ Nov. 30-Dec 10 ... perhaps our paths will cross?
We didn't venture into the bar (can you believe it???) at the POFQ but when we went to dinner at the POR one evening, we noticed they did have tv's in their loung and football was on.
Buses run 45 minutes before the parks open and they have special buses for the character breakfasts, which run earlier. I really don't think you'll have a problem getting a bus, but if you don't mind spending a few $$ for a taxi to relieve any concerns about getting there in time, then that's what I would do.
We did avoid taking the Mears shuttle from the airport to the hotel by using Tiffany Car, and they were wonderful ($75 w/ coupon - roundtrip). We had a terrific driver (Inese Martinez).
Have a great trip!!!
Buses run 45 minutes before the parks open and they have special buses for the character breakfasts, which run earlier. I really don't think you'll have a problem getting a bus, but if you don't mind spending a few $$ for a taxi to relieve any concerns about getting there in time, then that's what I would do.
We did avoid taking the Mears shuttle from the airport to the hotel by using Tiffany Car, and they were wonderful ($75 w/ coupon - roundtrip). We had a terrific driver (Inese Martinez).
Have a great trip!!!
GREAT information -- THANK YOU!!
Nice to know beforehand that the pool has a little kiddie pool as well. I saw a photo of the larger pool with the dragon slide but didn't let my DS see it. I didn't want to promise him anything. (not knowing if there is an age limit or not). I feel better knowing there is a small kiddie pool for him to splash around in. Also great to know about the playground area. We'll need to spend a little "down" time at the resort while the baby naps, and the playground might be a perfect activity for my 4 year old.
I'm going to take your advice on the taxi. I don't need the added stress of waiting for a bus to get to Donald's Breakfastosaurus on time. The character breakfast is supposed to be a treat for the kids. Who needs stress? I'm already questioning myself why I accepted an 8:10 PS. (When I called CRO, the CM was sooooo sweet. When she said, "I have an 8:10 available!" AND sounded so happy about it, I said, "Sounds great!" The kids are always up well before 8 am, but I'm still dragging my feet at that hour.
Sorry dcedwards, we'll JUST miss you by two days!! That's too bad. Hope the Bills give you a great season. My goodness, those overtime wins have been pretty dramatic!
Nice to know beforehand that the pool has a little kiddie pool as well. I saw a photo of the larger pool with the dragon slide but didn't let my DS see it. I didn't want to promise him anything. (not knowing if there is an age limit or not). I feel better knowing there is a small kiddie pool for him to splash around in. Also great to know about the playground area. We'll need to spend a little "down" time at the resort while the baby naps, and the playground might be a perfect activity for my 4 year old.
I'm going to take your advice on the taxi. I don't need the added stress of waiting for a bus to get to Donald's Breakfastosaurus on time. The character breakfast is supposed to be a treat for the kids. Who needs stress? I'm already questioning myself why I accepted an 8:10 PS. (When I called CRO, the CM was sooooo sweet. When she said, "I have an 8:10 available!" AND sounded so happy about it, I said, "Sounds great!" The kids are always up well before 8 am, but I'm still dragging my feet at that hour.
Sorry dcedwards, we'll JUST miss you by two days!! That's too bad. Hope the Bills give you a great season. My goodness, those overtime wins have been pretty dramatic!
UMADDBG
Mouseketeer
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- Sep 30, 2002
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We also had a magical time. For the first time I faxed my preferences and all were accommodated. We were in building 5, on the third floor with a garden view, beautiful view, and quiet. The room was clean, carpet a little worn.
My DH and I were celebrating out 35 th Wedding anniversary.On our anniversary day we went to Animal Kingdom we wanted a short day at the parks so we could go to Fultons Crab House for a special dinner. When we returned from the park we had a very nice anniversary card from Cinderella and Prince Charming. We only causually mentioned that it was our anniversary at check-in, while we were chatting with the nicest Cast Member.
The dinner at Fultons was very very good.
House Keeping missed us one day. we called for towels and they were brought to us ASAP. We also asked for a coffee maker the first night and it was brought to us with-in 5 mins. Great service and everyone was very friendly. No towel animals.
There were a few times we had to wait on the bus. One night on the way back from DD we had to wait for over an hour and 45 mins for the bus. It was raining , I'm sure that had something to do with the wait(no boat), also the bus picks up first at the Market Place stop then the Pleasure Island stop and we were at the Pleasure Island stop four or five loaded buses came by before we could get on. Buses were a little slow.
The parks were empty, 15 mins was our longest wait and that had to do with the ride cycle. We rode the Rock n Roll coaster two times in a row with no wait.
My DH and I were celebrating out 35 th Wedding anniversary.On our anniversary day we went to Animal Kingdom we wanted a short day at the parks so we could go to Fultons Crab House for a special dinner. When we returned from the park we had a very nice anniversary card from Cinderella and Prince Charming. We only causually mentioned that it was our anniversary at check-in, while we were chatting with the nicest Cast Member.
The dinner at Fultons was very very good.
House Keeping missed us one day. we called for towels and they were brought to us ASAP. We also asked for a coffee maker the first night and it was brought to us with-in 5 mins. Great service and everyone was very friendly. No towel animals.
There were a few times we had to wait on the bus. One night on the way back from DD we had to wait for over an hour and 45 mins for the bus. It was raining , I'm sure that had something to do with the wait(no boat), also the bus picks up first at the Market Place stop then the Pleasure Island stop and we were at the Pleasure Island stop four or five loaded buses came by before we could get on. Buses were a little slow.
The parks were empty, 15 mins was our longest wait and that had to do with the ride cycle. We rode the Rock n Roll coaster two times in a row with no wait.
In the past when we've had bus problems it has either been at Pleasure Island or TTC. Several times we have waited for over 45 minutes for a bus there. Not sure why it is so bad but tends to be. Now with our 4 year old we don't usually make it there but it sounds like things haven't changed much. And, of course, it always happens when it is raining.
Fox & Hound - We were at POFQ last year with a 2 1/2 year old and 5 year old and even the 2 1/2 year old could go down the slide by himself (or with someone) at the pool because they let him use a lifejacket. Your 4 year old will have a lot of fun.
nisiemouse
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KGrinnell: I'm so glad you enjoyed POFQ. We never stayed anywhere else until we were forced to with the temporary closing last year. I hope to go by and visit the resort during our Thanksgiving trip. Thanks for the report.
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