Looking for Adventure in the Great Wide Somewhere a PTR

[Lady Lallie]

I think I would keep trying for the full week at WL. I wouldn't upgrade to courtyard but I have faith that a standard might open up for the whole week.

If WL doesn't come through then I would pick a moderate.

 

[Donald is #1]

I would lean towards either the WL or AKL. However, if staying at a moderate was what made 2 trips next year feasible, then I would go for CSR. How is that for waffling?

 

[Charleston Princess]

Keep trying for a full week at WL or go with CBR!

 

[If U Had Wings]

Isnt Up the best? I just love, love, love Dug! "I do not like the cone of shame."

I love the tiny little mailman too!

Okay, if it were me I would do CBR for the entire trip and save money for my next trip. Because 2 is more than 1. You know you like moderates and so why not. I would take 2 trips at a moderate or value over just one trip at a deluxe. Thats just me though. Probably the only time in my life I would choose quantity of over quality. :laughing.

I'm definitely thinking of the multiple trips. Every dollar saved is a dollar for another trip. I was originally only planning on going to the marathon in 2011, but am tempted now to bump it up for 2010.

Two additional Disney trips sound wonderful!!

But I don't envy you having to make those decisions on your resort!! I have a difficult time with deciding for my trip as well! I think staying in one place is preferrable to a split stay. But where? I think standard view at AKL might not give you so much enjoyment in your balcony... Have you considered a pool view room? They are only 5 $ more per night and have much nicer views. We stayed in pool view rooms twice and I never missed the savanna, there are so many viewing areas! CBR sounds interesting, I am thinking about that one, too. I think it looks so relaxing and it has hammocks!! I think I have read somewhere that the bus takes 8 min to circle the resort before it heads off to the parks.

I didn't realize that the pool views were so little of a bump up in price. I'm going to have to check out some pics of CBR.

I would ditch the split stay. Moving the 2 of you sounds like more hassle than when it was just you.

In order, this is what I'd do...
#1 keep trying for WL for the full week....I like it for you for the ease in transportation
#2 go all Pop for the week....not so much need for the deluxe touches now that you aren't going solo. And Pop will save you the most money
#3 go all week at CBR...more relaxing than Pop....still saves money over WL

I was thinking that the move was going to be more of a hassle with two of us. Plus I don't think my friend is as enthused about a split stay as I was. Did you use the buses at all at CBR? I can't remember now. I'm just curious how long the waits are.

I think I would keep trying for the full week at WL. I wouldn't upgrade to courtyard but I have faith that a standard might open up for the whole week.

If WL doesn't come through then I would pick a moderate.

I'm not going to cancel my WL right away. If days become available I'll only have to add on for the first three nights. I'm going to keep my fingers crossed.

I would lean towards either the WL or AKL. However, if staying at a moderate was what made 2 trips next year feasible, then I would go for CSR. How is that for waffling?

You sound like me! I've been doing that for days now.

Keep trying for a full week at WL or go with CBR!

Those are the ways I'm leaning right now. If there was a moderate closer to the MK that would probably be my first choice.

Ugh!! I hate making decisions sometimes!

 

[TarzansKat]

Hon, I don't remember if I ever commented on how adorable the nieces are, so here it is. They're adorable!!! I love the dance costumes, so cute!

As far as resortitis goes, isn't it a pita? Seriously. I've had it myself, and it's just no fun. And even when we finally feel settled in a decision, sometimes, we still feel like...did I make the right choice?

Now, I have to say, having recently stayed at CBR with a friend, I think it's a wonderful, relaxing resort. It lends a feel to the vacation that you really are on vacation, and it has a quality to it that I think, honestly, would make me consider it for girlfriend trips, but not with my family. I was going to save this for the end of my report with Tink, but I'll enlighten you since you're pondering. There were times when I was walking around CBR, or coming home on the busses and thinking to myself, there's no way I could stay here with my family. At least not until my son is much, much older. And the reason for that is because of how spread out it is, and how much time it can take to get back to your village at the end of the night. I've been on busses to Pop late at night, holding my asleep child in my arms, my husband bravely standing with the stroller, and let me tell you, that's a chore in and of itself. Never mind if you're also standing and holding said child. Quite frankly, even though it doesn't take that much time, I can't fathom having to do that at CBR, especially if you're the last stop. Because the routes through the villages weren't always the same. Sometimes we were first off, sometimes last. It was hard to tell. And there was one night Tink and I were heading back from whatever park we were at, and it was standing room only. And I was in such an awkward spot on the bus, and I was so tired. Tired of standing. Now, that could happen anywhere, but with the added time, it just seemed forever. It was probably, in reality, less than ten minutes. So for me, with my family, I won't do it right now.

Let me tell you, though, I am SO glad I stayed there. The villages are very peaceful, very quiet, and very relaxing. I loved the hustle and bustle around the main pool and then being able to retreat to our own quiet corner. The walk to OPR didn't bother me, and I think Tink did it more than I did, and it didn't phase her either. So if that's the type of atmosphere you're looking for in a resort, honestly, I say go for it.

Normally I'd be completely gung ho and tell you to go for the Wilderness Lodge. Quite frankly, it is hands down, my favorite deluxe (that I can afford). I already asked DH if we could stay there in 2010. I can see why you would want to stay there. Again, very quiet, very peaceful, and so close to everything in the MK area! I remember taking the bus to MK (you could boat over, but we often found the bus to be easier) and it literally takes five minutes and you're there. You can't go wrong!

As far as room size, they're virtually the same. As far as amount of room, again, virtually the same. Both double sinks, both extra space, both very nice.

What theme do you want to your trip? Do you want to save more money? I don't think you'll be unhappy at CBR as long as you go into it with the expectation that your transportation may take a bit longer (or may not, you never know), and that you're going to know that in advance.

I don't know if that helped or made you more confused, but I just had to weigh in and try to help.

Edit: Sorry! I didn't really make it part of my post, but I would not do a split stay. That holds no appeal for me. When I go on vacation, I like to unpack and be done with it and not have to pack again until I leave. Going to another resort seems like to much work for me, but some people really enjoy it. Feels like two separate trips.

 

[If U Had Wings]

Hon, I don't remember if I ever commented on how adorable the nieces are, so here it is. They're adorable!!! I love the dance costumes, so cute!

Thanks. They are both complete hams in front of the camera. My younger niece especially. All she needs to do is see one, and she has to get in the photo - front and center. She does not get that sometimes you don't necessarily want her in the photo.

As far as resortitis goes, isn't it a pita? Seriously. I've had it myself, and it's just no fun. And even when we finally feel settled in a decision, sometimes, we still feel like...did I make the right choice?

That's exactly what I feel like, which is crazy really. No matter where I end up, it's still Disney right?

Now, I have to say, having recently stayed at CBR with a friend, I think it's a wonderful, relaxing resort. It lends a feel to the vacation that you really are on vacation, and it has a quality to it that I think, honestly, would make me consider it for girlfriend trips, but not with my family. I was going to save this for the end of my report with Tink, but I'll enlighten you since you're pondering. There were times when I was walking around CBR, or coming home on the busses and thinking to myself, there's no way I could stay here with my family. At least not until my son is much, much older. And the reason for that is because of how spread out it is, and how much time it can take to get back to your village at the end of the night. I've been on busses to Pop late at night, holding my asleep child in my arms, my husband bravely standing with the stroller, and let me tell you, that's a chore in and of itself. Never mind if you're also standing and holding said child. Quite frankly, even though it doesn't take that much time, I can't fathom having to do that at CBR, especially if you're the last stop. Because the routes through the villages weren't always the same. Sometimes we were first off, sometimes last. It was hard to tell. And there was one night Tink and I were heading back from whatever park we were at, and it was standing room only. And I was in such an awkward spot on the bus, and I was so tired. Tired of standing. Now, that could happen anywhere, but with the added time, it just seemed forever. It was probably, in reality, less than ten minutes. So for me, with my family, I won't do it right now.

Let me tell you, though, I am SO glad I stayed there. The villages are very peaceful, very quiet, and very relaxing. I loved the hustle and bustle around the main pool and then being able to retreat to our own quiet corner. The walk to OPR didn't bother me, and I think Tink did it more than I did, and it didn't phase her either. So if that's the type of atmosphere you're looking for in a resort, honestly, I say go for it.

Thanks for the very honest assesment of the busses and the grounds. It helps alot. The buses are my bigger concern, as I walk so much on a normal basis (to and from my office, the train station, etc.) that I think I'll actually enjoy a more leisurely walk.

Normally I'd be completely gung ho and tell you to go for the Wilderness Lodge. Quite frankly, it is hands down, my favorite deluxe (that I can afford). I already asked DH if we could stay there in 2010. I can see why you would want to stay there. Again, very quiet, very peaceful, and so close to everything in the MK area! I remember taking the bus to MK (you could boat over, but we often found the bus to be easier) and it literally takes five minutes and you're there. You can't go wrong!

The location is what is making me very reluctant to give up on the Wilderness Lodge. I had kind of started making plans figuring that I'd be staying there, so my plans are very "MK area" heavy. I know that the other resorts are only a short bus ride away, but the ability to being in the area would make things at the GF, the Poly and Fort Wilderness so much easier to access. If I was to pick on theme alone, CBR is more my cup of tea. My favorites are always the beachy themed places.

What theme do you want to your trip? Do you want to save more money? I don't think you'll be unhappy at CBR as long as you go into it with the expectation that your transportation may take a bit longer (or may not, you never know), and that you're going to know that in advance.

I don't know if that helped or made you more confused, but I just had to weigh in and try to help.

I'm undecieded anyways, so you can't really confuse me more. You did give me some really good things to ponder though. I think alot is going to hinge on if I decided to go down for the 1/2 marathon in March. If I really want to go, I'll want to start saving some more money now.

Edit: Sorry! I didn't really make it part of my post, but I would not do a split stay. That holds no appeal for me. When I go on vacation, I like to unpack and be done with it and not have to pack again until I leave. Going to another resort seems like to much work for me, but some people really enjoy it. Feels like two separate trips.

I think that's my friend too, although she hasn't really said anything. I definitely want to think of her too when making this decision. I already vetoed one idea of hers, and I don't want her to think I'm not including her ideas. (I'll post more on the veto later ).

 

[TarzansKat]

That's exactly what I feel like, which is crazy really. No matter where I end up, it's still Disney right?

It's amazing how easy it is to lose sight of that.

Thanks for the very honest assesment of the busses and the grounds. It helps alot. The buses are my bigger concern, as I walk so much on a normal basis (to and from my office, the train station, etc.) that I think I'll actually enjoy a more leisurely walk.

See, if you don't mind a leisurely...beautifully landscaped, gorgeous, relaxing...walk, then that would be a great place for you.

The location is what is making me very reluctant to give up on the Wilderness Lodge. I had kind of started making plans figuring that I'd be staying there, so my plans are very "MK area" heavy. I know that the other resorts are only a short bus ride away, but the ability to being in the area would make things at the GF, the Poly and Fort Wilderness so much easier to access. If I was to pick on theme alone, CBR is more my cup of tea. My favorites are always the beachy themed places.

I get the pull of WL. I really do. Honestly, when going with DH and DS (and not the big group), I can't see us staying anywhere else. While he's little, it's so convenient to be close to all the MK stuff. And even for the girlfriends' trip, to be close to the spa, and the monorail resorts is great, too.

I think that's my friend too, although she hasn't really said anything. I definitely want to think of her too when making this decision. I already vetoed one idea of hers, and I don't want her to think I'm not including her ideas. (I'll post more on the veto later ).

Interesting. Already a veto.

 

[If U Had Wings]

I get the pull of WL. I really do. Honestly, when going with DH and DS (and not the big group), I can't see us staying anywhere else. While he's little, it's so convenient to be close to all the MK stuff. And even for the girlfriends' trip, to be close to the spa, and the monorail resorts is great, too.

Of course if I win some money playing lotto between now and then, I'm booking the first room I can at the Poly!

Interesting. Already a veto.

She had some other ideas/restaurants that I'm working into the plans, but yes there was one veto. Actually it's more of a deferment until our next trip.

 

[TarzansKat]

Of course if I win some money playing lotto between now and then, I'm booking the first room I can at the Poly!

Oh, shoot, if I won the big bucks, I'd book my whole dang family at the Grand Flo and call it a day.

She had some other ideas/restaurants that I'm working into the plans, but yes there was one veto. Actually it's more of a deferment until our next trip.

Okay, so it's not a complete no. I'm intrigued.

 

[If U Had Wings]

Oh, shoot, if I won the big bucks, I'd book my whole dang family at the Grand Flo and call it a day.

I've never actually been inside of the Grand Flo. It's one of the things I'm really looking forward to visiting this trip. When I was a kid we stayed at the Poly usually, but only our last Poly trip was after the Grand Flo had opened. I have always wanted to stay at the Del Coronado out in California though, ever since I saw Some Like it Hot.

 

[Lady Lallie]

Oooh, I'm intrigued about your vetoed/put off until your next trip.

 

[If U Had Wings]

Oooh, I'm intrigued about your vetoed/put off until your next trip.

I felt almost bad about vetoing it, because she really never asks for anything when it comes to our vacation plans. So a deferment it was, and with a good valid reason.

Stay tuned for more on this!

 

[princess&her4princes]

WOW...I missed a lot!! I feel so bad you're in turmoil as to where to stay. My vote is to do the cheaper route now, since you'll be out and about all day with you BFF and not really enjoying the room as much, you know? That way you can do two trips next year!!!!

 

[TarzansKat]

I've never actually been inside of the Grand Flo. It's one of the things I'm really looking forward to visiting this trip. When I was a kid we stayed at the Poly usually, but only our last Poly trip was after the Grand Flo had opened. I have always wanted to stay at the Del Coronado out in California though, ever since I saw Some Like it Hot.

I swear, the Grand Flo is like my mothership. It's been embedded in my brain ever since we stayed there when I was 10.

 

[maroo]

I have no idea where you should stay... They all sound great to me!

Although my dream is to one day stay at the Poly...

But I do think we should try to meet up! I can't believe we will be there the same time...at least for a couple of days!

 

[MinnieNurse]

Oooh, I'm intrigued about your vetoed/put off until your next trip.

I felt almost bad about vetoing it, because she really never asks for anything when it comes to our vacation plans. So a deferment it was, and with a good valid reason.

Stay tuned for more on this!

I want to know too!!

 

[If U Had Wings]

WOW...I missed a lot!! I feel so bad you're in turmoil as to where to stay. My vote is to do the cheaper route now, since you'll be out and about all day with you BFF and not really enjoying the room as much, you know? That way you can do two trips next year!!!!

I was all set to call CRO tonight and make some changes, and then couldn't bring myself to do it. I think I'm just going to take a bit more time just to be sure.

I swear, the Grand Flo is like my mothership. It's been embedded in my brain ever since we stayed there when I was 10.

That's how I feel about the Boardwalk, but I haven't had the chance to stay there yet. When I saw it the first time back in 1997, I just knew it was "me". I'll get there yet.

I have no idea where you should stay... They all sound great to me!

Although my dream is to one day stay at the Poly...

But I do think we should try to meet up! I can't believe we will be there the same time...at least for a couple of days!

I love the Poly! I have so many good memories of staying there as a kid. I used to love just hanging by the pool when they'd have characters come water skiing off the the lake and then they'd hang by the pool for awhile. Lots of fun.

I want to know too!!

Coming!

 

[TarzansKat]

Not to through a wrench in the works, but just out of curiousity, have you ruled out the Boardwalk due to price? I was just thinking, now that there's two of you, but it may be more than you want to spend.

 

[If U Had Wings]

Not to through a wrench in the works, but just out of curiousity, have you ruled out the Boardwalk due to price? I was just thinking, now that there's two of you, but it may be more than you want to spend.

At this point I've pretty much ruled out Boardwalk. I know that with the two of us splitting the bill it would only end up costing me about the same, a little bit more than what I was planning on spending on my entire trip solo, but I'm not sure that I want to stay there with my friend on this trip. I know that sounds really silly and probably a bit weird, but there is something about Boardwalk that I really want to save for a solo trip. Maybe because I love it so much, I'd hate to stay with someone who doesn't really like it, and have a part of the experience ruined for me.

 

[If U Had Wings]

I got a call from my friend the other day about our trip. She had been talking to a woman she works with who had just returned from Disney and the woman had given her some recomendations for our trip.

Most of the recomendations were for ADRs, and I'm more than happy to give a new restaurant a try on this trip. I only had one or two that I was considering "musts" so I'm happy to try some new ones. Amoung the ADRs my friend would like to try:

Chef Mickey's - I was actually thinking of this one for our last morning.
California Grill - Yum! I did this one on my last trip, and loved it.
Narcosees - Wasn't on my list of possibilities, but Citricos was. Tink has me drooling for quatro fromaggi potatos.
CRT - I had ruled it out of my list, but only because of price. I did have Askerhus on my list though. I'm willing to negotiate on this one.

There were a couple of others on the list too, but I'll save those for later in the report. She also would like to head to the Boardwalk one night to hang out at Jellyrolls. I've never been there, but I never need an excuse to go to the Boardwalk area, so we'll definitely be doing this one night.

So were did the veto come in? What in the world would I actually refuse to do while at Disney?

Go to Universal Studios.

Now don't get me wrong, I've been to Universal Studios before. Not recently, about 10 years ago, but I enjoyed it well enough. If I was to come to Orlando, and planned on spending my vacation doing Universal and Sea World I'd be fine with it. I just don't want to take away from my Disney days, by spending it at Universal. I felt a bit bad about saying I didn't want to go this trip, as my friend hasn't really asked for much on any of our vacations together.

Besides this trip is supposed to be my chance to kick back and relax a bit. I don't want to give up my parkless relaxation days, which leaves only 5 days for the parks (and one of those is our arrival day). I don't want to cut my park time down more than that.

So instead of flat out refusing, I defered a trip to Universal until our next trip. (Tentatively scheduled for next October). By that point Harry Potter land will be open at Islands of Adventure (and I do want to see that). We figure we'll just take a day at either the begining or end of the trip, stay at one of the Universal resorts and take advantage of the front of the line benefits.

I'm still not super enthused about Universal. Like I said I liked it, but for me it was missing something on my one trip there. My most lasting memory of the place was that I got slammed around on the Back to the Future ride something terrible, and ended up with a splitting headache the rest of the day. It was horrible. I wasn't motion sick, but just felt awful from my head continually wacking the back of the car.