Just Back from the Swan..LONG

[Divamomto3]

Just returned last night from 7 nights at the Swan... 2/19-2/26.

The hotel itself is very beautiful. The grounds are very well kept and we saw a lot of trim painting and groundskeeping going on while we were there. We got there around 1:00pm and our room wasn't ready yet, but they stored our luggage and we went to the Boardwalk for lunch. Arrived back at the hotel at 3pm and our room was ready. I paid for a resort view room with balcony. We had room 593 which is on the west side of the Swan. Our room faced the east tower of the hotel and had a view of part of the boardwalk and top of the Yacht Club. We couldn't see Epcot like I had requested. We would have needed to be on the other side of the East tower for that. But all in all, I enjoyed the view, but not sure I'd pay extra again for the balcony. It's very small and barely fits 2 chairs and a small round table.

The room was nice and the beds are heavenly! It was clean when we arrived. Later in the week, DH told me he didn't think the tub was very clean, but honestly, I didn't notice anything dirty. Nothing was worn out. It looked very refreshed, even the hallways, which are whimsically painted with a beach scene. We did have trouble with housekeeping however. Everyday, we'd go to the parks really early and arrive back to our room around 4pm for a quick rest and a shower before dinner ressies. Well, our room was never cleaned yet. The front desk said they had until 5pm to get the rooms cleaned. Well that was unacceptable to me and in all the places I've ever travelled, I've never had anyone attempt to come and clean my room while I was getting ready for dinner. If anything, I have more usually felt like they were rushing me out in the morning! So DH did say it was kind of not acceptable. A few days our room didn't get cleaned at all, they just gave us towels and had us sign a paper saying we "refused" the room cleaning when they showed up at 4:30. I wasn't "refusing" I just had a 3 year old asleep on the bed! One day we didn't get back until 5pm and the room was "clean" but they didn't leave us any toilet paper and we were almost out and they barely made the beds...they left the pillows on the FLOOR! Crazy and unacceptable. Our last 2 days there, after DH complained, our room was cleaned when we returned at 4.

Theming: Sorry, it's not there. This week there was a HUGE convention for a pharmaceutical company kicking off a new drug called Namenda. And I will forever remember it because the word Namenda was the joke of the week for myself and my sons. The ENTIRE Swan AND Dolphin was taken over with this huge group. There were 8 foot tall billboards in every lobby that said Namenda. If you looked down certain hallways, they were entirely redecorated with the company's Namenda logo. Not a Mickey in site. It really got me down. On Monday, we were walking on the walkway between the Swan and the Dolphin and my 8 year old was badgering me about how much does it cost to eat at Fresh, how much is the bill...you know...crazy stuff 8 year olds do in public. We had a swarm of yuppie pharmaceutical reps walking around us and I looked at my son and said "Shush", with my stern Mommy look. Well 2 young women ahead of me totally made fun of me with the shush thing like I was deaf. It gave me a darn knot in my stomach to be surrounded with people away on business who have no concept of caring and controlling 3 small boys. But I digress.......LOL

The Swan was a pretty good walk from the Grotto Pool. I think families would enjoy the Dolphin's location more...the pool...Tubbies...the Dolphin Fountain.

We ate at Gulliver's Grill one night for their "character" buffet. Well it was Goofy, who bypassed our table the entire time and then Pluto, who did come over to us. It was an "Italian" buffet, but being real Italians from New Haven, we didn't enjoy it very much. However, Fresh at the Dolphin was outstanding and we had breakfast there 3 times. Two times, they did not charge us for our 3 year old, who didn't eat from the buffet, only had white toast brought to him, but on the third day when they did charge us, we asked why and the mangager came over and said that 3 year olds have to be charged the buffet price. I didn't argue over $10, but it was kind of ridiculous for 2 slices of white toast with butter. We ate lunch once out by the pool and were overrun with black flying bugs, the servers were overwhelmed, and the food was just OK. We had late evening room service twice and it was extremely good and the waiter came in a tux and set it all up for us. The kids got a kick out of it and the food was some of the best I had all week. The rest of our meals were at parks or other resorts.

All in all, I'd only stay here again for a night or two or if there were no codes. It killed me that for just $300 more for the week, I could have been at the Beach Club with the code that came out, but DH insisted that we could use that money for meals and that we'd be fine at the Swan, etc. Well now he couldn't agree with me more..shoulda went to the BC! And for his pennace, he bought me 200 points at Saratoga Springs! WOOOOOOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOO!

 

[Mainebound]

Thank you for your honest but very disappointing review. We will be at the Swan Monday for 5 nights with our two young boys. I was never excited about it -- but it is free with points -- so we are stuck. (Although we will be spending 3 nights at the Hard Rock to end our trip which we are excited about.) There is also a HUGE convention at the S/D March 1-4 when we are there -- both S/D/ are completely sold out and they are using Coronado Springs as the overflow -- so I guess I know what to expect.

I wonder if people who enjoy S/D go when there are no conventions. Spring is a huge convention time for S/D.

As for housekeeping, we had the same experience last year at AKL. Rooms were made up in very late afternoon each day. So THAT but I think is not unique to these resorts.

As for the flies around the pool -- should we bring bug spray? Or is it just around food?

Thank again for the report!

 

[luvmarypoppins]

Sorry you didnt have such a magical trip. Dont let one experience ruin your disney magic. There are always new places to try or maybe you could give it a try again. We went to the swan last aug and are going again this april. I really had my heart set on the poly but our budget only allows for the swan for our family of 5 in peak season. We wont be spending too much time in the room. I did also notice the housekeeping issues. I thought we were last, like 4 pm. because our room was at the end of the hall by the elevators. I did see you could put a sign out on your door when you wanted your room made up. I think we tried it once, but cant remember what happened. Worse we had to sit in the freezing cold ac lobby with soaking wet bathing suits because there was a storm and everyone ran out of the pool. We ran up to the room at 4 pm and she was just starting to make it up. So I feel your pain. I am going to swallow it this time since there were no discounts for the poly when we called, only lagoon, concierge etc. no ap, etc. sigh, sigh. But we will eat at the Poly and maybe I will feel better, not!! Except for the swan bill. That total will make me feel better. Hope your next trip is much, much better.We have not gone back to the AKL due to a bad experience so I understand. Thanks for sharing your honesty with us.

 

[MinnieFan4ever]

Congrats on your 200 SSR points. I'm real sorry about the "not so magical" Swan, but I bet you would do it again for more points!

We have stayed at the Swan 2x and each time there was only a small convention. We didn't even notice they were there. After reading your report, it sounds like we were very lucky.

It sounds like other than the hotel, you have a nice trip. Oh and WELCOME HOME!!!

 

[Blondie]

I wonder if people who enjoy S/D go when there are no conventions.

For our February '02 stay at the Dolphin there was a huge bankers/lenders convention going on. The resort was filled to capacity and the Grotto Pool was closed at least once while we were there during the evening for a private party.

Didn't spoil a thing for us! Actually, there is something to be said about being on vacation while the others there are working!

Sorry you were disappointed though. Gives you more of a reason to go back soon!

 

[mezmom]

the Royal Pacific Resort , the room was never ready before 5 and we did complain, to no avail.
We have stayed in resorts in Turkey and Tunisia that are equally as bug and busy , but where the staff do not have the same ease of cleaning products or machines (vacumes, folks).
Is there a solution???

 

[dreamflight99]

ARE NOT ONLY at the SWAN/DOLPHIN!!~Oh no...last summer, there was a HUGE convention at the Contemporary Resort while we were there. The LOBBY was packed, the arcade was FULL of them, and we had to travel up and down the elevator (until we got past the 11th floor) with inebriated guests all week. When we dined in the Cali Grill (one of my FAV spots), it was completely "saturated" with Conventioners! They also had the entire bar area "ROPED-OFF" for their use, as well as the patio/balcony/terrace (where we enjoy watching the fireworks). We stayed on the 14th floor, concierge, in a 1 BR suite. There were some "executives" on this floor as well, and they were a bit loud and rowdy on occasion (but never detracted from our enjoyment).

I've also spent time rubbing elbows with them at the Poly, and the Beach/yacht club (which has enormous convention rooms/halls dedicated to hosting these folks, so be CAREFUL when reserving), as well as other Disney-owned resorts. I hear they are ALWAYS at the CSR too. They also visit the parks. All of them, as they have special passes specifically designed for this entertainment.

Sorry you did not enjoy your time at the resort as much as you intended. The conventioners are present each summer when we are there. They are always friendly and personable. They give DD "pins" and other treats from their "goodie~bag" (stuffed animals, key chains, coffee travel mugs, etc.),and we are ALWAYS offered bottled-water, and other refreshments by the staff when we pass through their area (sign-in) on our way to the self-parking lot. I have enjoyed all of them, especially Mrs. Fields, Dodge and Subway! We even saw the famous "Jerod" of Subway FAME! (LOL).

There are loads of singles walking around WDW whom do not enjoy/appreciate the "antics" of children (not nearly as much as we "mothers" do...LOL). They are just as apt to make fun of your "shush" (or anyone elses for that matter). It's just a much larger and noisier setting, and you have merely never caught them exhibiting such behavior. Believe me, they are there. And, they are also mimicking mothers. I've seen them.

I too, love the superior room service available at the Dolphin/Swan. The black bugs you encountered during your meal at the pool are everywhere on property. I've never been bothered at the Dolphin or pool area, but have at other Disney resorts.

As for the housekeeping trouble, I would have called and spoken with the housekeeping manager. It's so simple to fix this type of problem at the Swan/Dolphin. Dial *66 on the phone, and service express answers. Inform them you are LEAVING your room, and would like service asap. Get the name of the associate and time. Note each on the little pad of paper next to the phone, and place it in a drawer.

IF/WHEN upon return, the room is STILL unkempt, call *66 again. Ask to speak to a supervisor, and inform them of the previous call for service. You will be offered a "credit" for the inconvenience ($50 is the standard). I never put up with this stuff. We do not like to be disturbed at ALL in the am, and only desire LATE housekeeping (evening staff after 5 pm), as we are gone each eve dining and playing in the parks. We call the HK manager, and alert them upon arrival at the resort. In turn, they note this on the clip-board and room assignment sheet of the housekeeper.
We have had the SAME late night housekeepers for years at the Dolphin. Both women have been there 12-14 years, (one since it opened).

We have stayed at every resort on property with the exception of the AKL and the values. We are not DVC owners, but spend 8-14 eves (10 this trip) in a 1BR villa at Disney's Vero Beach each summer. We also usually split our lengthy stay between another Disney property at WDW. I have experienced the same things all over the place. Not one resort is completely "exempt" from these types of problems. Things can and do, happen. If you read these boards/threads enough...you will notice DISers experience it everywhere.

Yet, I have always enjoyed my visits "in spite" of any glitches. I tend to be so absorbed in what I'm doing while there, I hardly notice anyone around me except my family.

I hope you have a much better time at the Saratoga Springs resort, or BC on your next visit. We love the Dolphin and Swan, and find the theming very relaxing and whimsical. They even have models of our beloved DISNEY MAGIC cruiseship in the lobby, and MICKEYS everywhere in the gift shop!

Thanks for posting your review.

TTFN...DF99

 

[Fokus17]

I just recently stayed at the Dolphin and Swan. I also had some bad experiances with room and views. The Disney magic is just not there. Spend your money and get a great Disney Resort.

 

[Lewisc]

Originally posted by Divamomto3
Theming: Sorry, it's not there. This week there was a HUGE convention for a pharmaceutical company kicking off a new drug called Namenda. me that for just $300 more for the week, I could have been at the

The hotels are very well themed, but the theme isn't Mickey. Normally I'd say the hotels are swan and dolphin themed but it sounds like the convention did a good job giving the hotel a Namenda theme.

Sorry you didn't have a better time.

DF I agree Disney has conventions in their hotels but I've never heard of a Disney resort closing the theme pool for a business function. Big difference.

 

[Gagebre]

convention or not always affect my stays. I have been to the same resorts numerous times and on the stays when it's really crowded I seem to have a miserable time, but next trip at the same resort (when it's not as crowded) my stay will be completely different. Of course at more crowded times you probably won't get requests, etc. so I'm sure this has a lot to do with it.

 

[DVC@BWV]

And for his pennace, he bought me 200 points at Saratoga Springs! WOOOOOOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOO!

Well, at least something good came out of that trip!

 

[Kae]

doesn't that "refused" thing just make you want to scream. We were at a hotel for a wedding we have 30 rooms in a Hampton-like hotel, Talked the maid service to come to bridal suite room last, we were getting ready in this room. When They came back I asked for 15 more mins they said no. I was like you must be kidding. So I had to sign that darn "refused" paper. then when I asked them to at least empty the waste cans & give us clean towels. Then I got some friends to go back & clean the room before they came back.

Kae

 

[CarolA]

On one day of my last stay at Dolphin I never got housekeeping.

My suggestions is NOT to sign the refused statement. (Housekeeping will have someone come later if you don't sign!)

Also, please don't put those little tags out saying what time you want the room clean. This is like an ad for a thief. ROOM EMPTY!

My one complaint on the "re-do" is they did not really redo the bathrooms. The tiles are getting old and dingy looking!

 

[dreamflight99]

Originally posted by Lewisc


DF I agree Disney has conventions in their hotels but I've never heard of a Disney resort closing the theme pool for a business function. Big difference.

True...but the pool is only closed for a few hours, usually in the evening. There are other pools open for guests to use. It also prevents the guests from being bothered by the conventioners whom may imbibe a bit too much. At the other resorts, the conventioners have disturbed MANY a guest at the pools, and I've read all the posts reflecting these problems too!!

*I would NEVER sign a "refused" HK form, especially if I never refused the service, (but merely did not receive it!). This happens at ALL resorts.

This is the WONDER of WDW. So many FABULOUS resorts to choose from! If everyone loved, or wanted to stay in the same resort...there would be ZERO AVAILABILITY for the rest of us. Just think of what would happen if they opened Cinderella's Castle for a special eve of MAGIC and WONDER in a themed SUITE? The list and price would be phenomenal, but my name would be on there!! (LOL).

*CarolA...I only place the DND on my door, never the (Empty room alert!) request for service!

TTFN...DF99

 

[Lexxiefern]

Thanks for taking the time to report. I have not yet tried either of these resorts (will someday!). Congratulations on your SSR points!!

 

[Divamomto3]

Originally posted by Mainebound
As for the flies around the pool -- should we bring bug spray? Or is it just around food?

Thank again for the report!

It was just that one time near the Dolphin pool bar. And these weren't New England type flies either..they were very fragile..LOL..you swatted near them and they darn near fell apart and died immediately. Maybe some Floridian can clue me in to what they were. I don't think you'll need bug spray.

Sorry my review was a little disappointing and of course, it's just my own opinion. But I wanted anyone who was on the fence to know what I experienced. I'm sure you will enjoy your stay...especially since it's free! My disappointment hurt me even more, because even with the nurse's discount, after the $10 per night "resort fee" and the $25 per night rollaway bed charge I was barely paying less than the Beach Club with the spring resort code.

 

[Divamomto3]

Originally posted by dreamflight99
As for the housekeeping trouble, I would have called and spoken with the housekeeping manager. It's so simple to fix this type of problem at the Swan/Dolphin. Dial *66 on the phone, and service express answers. Inform them you are LEAVING your room, and would like service asap. Get the name of the associate and time. Note each on the little pad of paper next to the phone, and place it in a drawer.

IF/WHEN upon return, the room is STILL unkempt, call *66 again. Ask to speak to a supervisor, and inform them of the previous call for service. You will be offered a "credit" for the inconvenience ($50 is the standard). I never put up with this stuff. We do not like to be disturbed at ALL in the am, and only desire LATE housekeeping (evening staff after 5 pm), as we are gone each eve dining and playing in the parks. We call the HK manager, and alert them upon arrival at the resort. In turn, they note this on the clip-board and room assignment sheet of the housekeeper.
We have had the SAME late night housekeepers for years at the Dolphin. Both women have been there 12-14 years, (one since it opened).

Excellent advice and I will remember it for the future!
Hey, my review wasn't all bad! There was a lot I loved...LOCATION, PRICE, ROOM SERVICE, and those HEAVENLY BEDS!