NEW...DOLPHIN/SWAN..."questions and answers"...tips and hints!

[dreamflight99]

Today, I received TWO (YIPPEE!) ! Both the DOLPHIN & CR were there to GREET ME! Oh, I LOVE these envelopes and all the printed words with my name interjected, with dates, details, etc. It is the JOI DE VIVRE! (Silly, aren't I?)

NANCY...Have a magical & memorable time next week. I'll be thinking of you...awaiting the details w/baited breath! LOL. Enjoy the "Honeymoon" of a journey, and "go with the flow" of Europe. After all, when in France...!

Hellooooo Caroline! Always a PLEASURE to read you on this thread. You are SO fortunate to be able to take these "Mini" vacations throughout the year. And you wonder WHY I go for 6+ weeks...because I'm HIGH & DRY the other 10+ months of the year (W/exception of DL). Please...come back soon!

Hi KIMMAR! Like Caroline said..."it's like a new beginning!" over here. Soon, you'll be there too (w/your thread)! I received a very nice pm from CALI, w/mention of a possible future trip to WL! (I'll refer all queries to you, oh WL Swami!) I believe the walk to MGM is just a "tad" shorter than the distance to the Epcot entrance (international gateway), from the DOLPHIN/SWAN resorts. Next time, I'll wear my "sportbrain" which accurately measures the distance, and post the results. I walk them both, frequently, and recall the walk to/from MGM as being a "BREEZE"~compared with the somtimes arduous stroll from Epcot. Of course, I take the LONG way to the Dolphin...in front of the BC/YC~around the lake! LOL!

jgates...(LOL) Disney stock=nothing?! C'est Terrible! At least Mc D's offered food, and Harley D. some "eye candy", but as far as Starwood goes, I'm unsure. I sold my old Sheraton/Westin Stock when the transition was in the making a few years back. Of course, I did not reinvest in "S" at the time. Perhaps I'll look into this idea. It's a great question and a good prospect. Since Starwood is SO great w/rewards, I would think it understandable (almost expected...ahem) they would offer "something" to their shareholders! A FREE eve, or a heavenly bed?! LOL...is that TOO much to ask?!

Ithastobe...welcome back to our thread. I recall your plans, and the suite, etc. YES...you'll have FULL access to the CL (I would almost assuredly attest...but PLEASE call in advance and double check), as the grand suite is usually affiliated with CL, etc. Yes, the SWAN CL has a continental BF (Croissants, pastries/danish, cereals, bagels, fresh fruit, juice, etc.) and also Soda, bottled water, and Snacks galore! It's a fabulous treat your DH's company has reserved...you will be VERY delighted with the accomodations and amenities. You should be excited!
P.S. No need to apologize for any ignorance, as ignorance only lies in the questions you FAIL to ask! So..."ASK", freely, and I'll do my best to answer.

 

[CaliforniaDreaming]

I love getting confirmations in the mail! Not a better way to start planning a WDW trip (which reminds me, I currently have none booked!). I have a trip scheduled for 632 days from now - either for the YC, Dolphin, AKL, or WL (or Grand Floridian ). I wonder if I'll end up taking a trip sooner than that one? Guess I'll have to see what kind of path life puts me on in the future (maybe Disney and US Airways will both be offering great rates at the same time???).

So, df, how does it feel to be planning another trip? Does it seem real yet? Can't wait to hear about your suite stay at the Contemporary!

 

[disneywith6kids]

whew... I finally found the thread! After the other one closed I couldn't find the new one..so now that I'm replying to it, I should be able to get an e-mail every time someone else replies to it.

DF I can feel your excitement !! I have been planning our trip since Feb. and I can't wait for our first trip to the Dolphin. I can't wait to see the kids faces when I go to show them what the Dolphin rooms look like and they see a tree with ornaments on it with their names on them I'm just wondering if I can keep it a surprise.

BTW anyone considering joining the Spg program ---DO IT!! Then get the AMEX spg card. We're going to the Sheraton Suites next week for 3 nights and full breakfast buffet for $45 and 2800 spg points a night!!!!!!!!!Not bad for a family of 8

One quick question??? are the pools open at anytime of the day? Do they have lifeguards? Can my older(13,15,17) children go alone? Thanks again for all of the input!!!

 

[Ithastobe]

dreamflight99, you are a dream! Thanks so much for the answers, and not making me feel well, stoopid!!

What would be the best (best meaning scenic and interesting) way to get to the 1900 Park Faire at the GF our first night? We should arrive at Swan around 4:00. I have PS for Gullivers for dinner that night (in case we are tired an just want to partake in the swan), and a duplicate one for 1900 Park Faire. We might just be adventerous and antsy to explore. If we want to meander over to the GF what would be a lovely way to get there?

Thanks a bunch!

 

[jgates]

Grotto Pool info

The Grotto pool is open 24 hours a day. Towel service and lifeguards are only available from 9am - 9pm year round. Guest swimming before or after those hours do so at their own risk. Pool is heated, though it is cooler than the Disney owned resorts because of size and the waterfall.

This is from Glo's thread at the top of the board. Read thru for there for more pool info I believe. That thread is a regular book!

To be honest, I don't think I would have any problem sending kids that age to the pool alone. (I kind of assume that you mean the 3 of them together). Check the signs in case there were age restrictions for parental supervision - can't remember. A lot depends on their maturity level. My dd (nearly 10) would be close to being able to go by herself but I would be more comfortable with 2 of them together or all 3.

I emailed spg about stockholder benefits. Hopefully I will get a reply soon. DF, I was SURE you would know that one! I asked if there were rate, card level, or upgrades available for stockholders.

 

[RobMax]

Hey All,

I was wondering. I have two rooms books and I'm SPG Plat. What are the chances of geting a suite upgrade at the dolphin?

BTW - Have a new job starting end of next summer. Here's a hint - the university mascot's costume is an elephant made by the imagineers at Disney

 

[Muffy]

I am Plat SPG and was told YES you can get an upgrade to a Jr. Suite if one is available at checkin!

About the elephant at a University! Could you be talking about TUFTS University? Their mascot is Jumbo the Elephant! My son graduated from TUFTS in 2001. My daughter is praying she will get accepted when her time comes! We are a Tufts family!

Muffy

 

[disnurse]

Booked thru dreams unlimited but didn't get a confirmation in the mail. Does anyone know if they send them?

 

[gschmerl]

I booked the Dolphin through Dreams Unlimited for our trip this past July. I just printed out the confirmation I received via e-mail. I did call the Dolphin with the confirmation number to be sure, and gave them my SPG number.

 

[gschmerl]

I booked the Dolphin through Dreams Unlimited for our trip this past July. I just printed out the confirmation I received via e-mail. I did call the Dolphin with the confirmation number to be sure, and gave them my SPG number.

 

[disneywith6kids]

Does anyone know if they have a nintendo 64 in the rooms at the Dolphin?

 

[dreamflight99]

I'm gone a few hours...and already we're on page THREE w/30+ POSTS! LOL...It's SO FUN to share info with all of you!

So, df, how does it feel to be planning another trip? Does it seem real yet? Can't wait to hear about your suite stay at the Contemporary!

It is SOoooo Exciting for me...and YES~it's all very real, and all I THINK about lately! My mind wanders to the Dolphin, Parks, Cruise...etc. I have a BIG FULL COLOR pic. of the Dolphin (from the Swan vantage), in my office...and it always puts a big SMILE on my face! The suite is the only way to go~thanks for all the help w/that CALI. I would never have known all the details without your invaluable assistance.

Disneywith6kids...So glad to have you BACK with us, and linked to the email alert! YES...I TOO am excited for you & the Christmas SECRET you have planned. They will be estactic! I would definitely have no trouble permitting your three kids to venture to the pool alone. The Dolphin pool is lovely, and your kids (not to mention you too!) will appreciate the freedom and independence time together (& alone) allows. Since the parks permit children as young as "12" to take the bus ALONE (I still consider this TOO young) to the parks...I would not hesitate giving your three the green light to the grotto. Your children are at wonderful stages in their lives to explore together, provided they stay together and look out for one another.

BTW...Here's something most folks do not know. The TOWELS are available by the pool 24 hours per day as well! They are kept stacked in the same hut (location during the day), and are easily accessible. We always swim after E-Ticket (3:00 am), and obtain the towels from the little hut. I'm sure your children can/will explore the area and quickly locate the towels!

*P.S. YES...they have NINTENDO in the rooms (about $6.00 per hour of play), with a Bevy of games available. You are also free to BRING your N64 and simply use the same hardware (cords) to connect to your in-room TV, as you do at home.

Ithastobe (Such a cute name!) Thanks for all the kind words! Your plans sound wonderful...and I'll give you MY favorite way to the GF/1900 Park Faire from the Dolphin. Take the boat to Epcot, and head (stroll) toward the entrance. Take the monorail to the TTC (Ticket & Transportation center). Get off this monorail, and board the "other" Resorts monorail. You will be transported right to the front of the GF resort. Afterward, you can travel to the Magic Kingdom for the parade and fireworks show! Then stroll to the bus, and back to the Dolphin. It's a fun way to get there, and there is more to SEE (using this method). Of course, you may select ANY route you desire...this is only my little trail.

jgates...let me know if there ARE any benefits afforded SH! If so...It may be time to reinvest!!LOL.

RobMax...as MUFFY wrote...it's VERY GOOD indeed (to a Jr. Suite). If the Suite is available, and you REQUEST it specifically, they may MAKE IT HAPPEN!

Disnurse...YES. Sometimes it takes a while longer than through Dolphin/Swan directly. Call the DU associate (or email) and request one.

**I received a LOVELY email from a Dolphin guest. She just returned home from her FIRST stay, and informed me of the *MAGIC* she experienced! She requested a Bellman for assistance (always a smart move...read on and you'll see why) with her luggage and navigation to her appointed room. His name was Arial, and he was very professional and courteous.

He opened the door to the room, and she looked out of the window to see the air conditioners and roof, etc. HE COULD DISCERN immediately she was not pleased, even though she NEVER verbalized her sentiments. He kindly requested her permission to make a phone call using her phone, and then smiled--asking her to follow him.

He took her to another room, one he was confident she would enjoy! Upon entering, he requested she please look out of the window. Her view was Beautiful, and overlooked the opposing property and Epcot. She was delighted (needless to say), all thanks to the Bellman, ARIAL!

So--this is a VERY GOOD CONSIDERATION for those of you opting/pondering to carry your own luggage. Bellman have saved me numerous times in the past from disastrous views/rooms by merely phoning the desk and moving my luggage. They also fill the ice bucket, and offer inside tips, a smile for the weary and any other assistance you may desire. It's certainly WORTH the few extra dollars to request one at Valet/upon arrival.

If she would have carried her own belongings, she would have most likely remained in the A/C-Roof view room (unhappily) for the duration of her stay. What a nice story...and a great reminder. Bellman are certainly assets worth securing, for peace of mind, happiness and ease of check-in. The DOLPHIN Bellman are superb...especially ARIAL! (KUDOS to you ARIAL...wherever you are!)

 

[goofy4tink]

Thanks to all you terrific people on these boards I've just found that my dh is eligible for the gov't discount. He is an elected town official. I have double-checked with the 'powers that be' in town and they say 'yup, he is considered a gov't employee, even if it is part-time since he does get a (minimal) paycheck'. Yippee!!! My question to any of you that have used the gov't discount....what exactly do they need for ID?? I know you have to bring a pay check stub( hope they don't laugh when they see the very small amount!!). But, since they (the town) don't use ID badges or other thingies, what should I bring? Someone suggested a letter on town letterhead stating that he does in fact work for the town. Any thoughts?? Thanks again for all the great info so far. You guys are teeee-rific!!!

 

[livsea2]

I have enough star points to do a 1 level upgrade for my next Dolphin stay. That should get me a club level room with concierge floor privledges. I should acquire enough points before my trip to obtain a two level upgrade. My question is, should I? What would a two level upgrade get me? What else should I expect to get with the extra points should I hold on to them until check-in? Better yet let me know what you have recieved at the Doplphin with YOUR star points! Thanks!

 

[dreamflight99]

I received a FREE long stem Rose today! I was driving home from dropping DD off at School, and a local Florist shop was walking curbside in front of the shop--bestowing these upon drivers caught at the light! Made my day!

goofy4tink...CONGRATULATIONS on the GOOD NEWS! I would bring "both" the letter on professional letterhead, and the pay stub. It's always better to be safe than sorry. The rate available for Gov't employees at the DOLPHIN/SWAN (like the Teachers/Nurses rate) is just TOO GOOD to PASS! Enjoy, and again--CONGRATS!

livsea2...I have not used any of my Starpoints to date, and have banked a HUGE amount! I'm going to transfer some to my Delta Skymiles account for airline tickets. I am a Platinum SPG member, and receive all the perks I desire for FREE. I am upgraded to CL, and the resort fee is waived. I would definitely upgrade to the CL if I were you (using points).

What level is your SPG membership? Perhaps you can use your membership for other upgrades or perks (like better view, deluxe accomodations, etc.). I know the view/room (balcony) is considered an upgrade in itself, (like CL). Call the resort and ask them the difference between the level one/level two upgrade.

 

[Ithastobe]

Dreamflight... thanks for the answer about getting to 1900 park faire. Thanks for the 'happy trail' tip! Nice that you got a rose today.

 

[jgates]

OK DF, analyze the response for me. I am just TOOO tired to do it and you are the SPG pro. I have no idea if the Corporate Preferred membership would equate to the Platinum or not - I may have to wait for the card. Looks like rates are not going to be anything fantastic. Well, it doesn't really look like free club level or the platinum equivalent but maybe it isn't too bad? Who knows. Fast reply though!!!!

Thank you for your recent e-mail message concerning your Starwood Preferred Guest account. We welcome this opportunity to assist you.

Starwood Stockholder/Share Owners are enrolled as Corporate Preferred members in the Starwood Preferred Guest program. In addition to the many benefits afforded by this status, the Stockholder/Share Owner will also receive a discounted rate between 10%-20% off standard rates, based upon availability at all Starwood Hotels. This rate plan is accessed by using the XXXX (code edited here).

The benefits of Corporate Preferred membership in Starwood Preferred Guest are as follows:

- Two Starpoints per U. S. Dollar or equivalent spent on eligible charges.
- Ability to earn Starpoints on restaurant charges when not staying at a participating property. (US$10.00 Minimum)
- Personal profile information, including: floor, bedding, pillow, smoking preferences, and newspaper preferences.
- Choice of National or Financial weekday newspaper.
- Pre-blocked and pre-keyed room on day of arrival.
- Personalized, fast and efficient check-in.
- Special toll-free number for Starwood Preferred Guest related inquiries.
- Unlimited ability to transfer Starpoints between two accounts in the same household.
- Corporate Preferred membership credentials.
- Guaranteed late check-out of up to 4:00 p.m., based upon availability at resort properties.
- Upgrade to a Preferred Room, subject to availability at time of check-in.
- Bonus of 2,000 Starpoints after the 5th and 10th stays.

We have changed your Starwood Preferred Guest membership level to the Corporate Preferred level and have ordered another membership card. You may expect your card to arrive in approximately four to six weeks. In the meantime, you may print a copy of your temporary card from the Starwood Preferred Guest Web site http://www.starwood.com/preferredguest.

We appreciate your patronage of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide. If you have further questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us.

Best regards,

 

[WiscMomof2]

Hi everyone. We're getting ready to leave tomorrow and I just wanted to drop in and say THANK YOU for all the input and good advice you've given me in planning this trip. I've gathered so much information from you guys and I don't think we would have gotten half as much out of this trip if I didn't stumble upon these boards. Yesterday I was able to secure my club level upgrade with SPG points which was the last thing on my planning agenda! Now tonight all that's left is to finish packing and off we go to 3 nights at the WL and then 5 nights at the Dolphin! Can't wait!! Thanks again.

 

[ozziewags]

Momof2,
HAVE A WONDERFUL TRIP....I think we all feel that way about these boards. So many people are so helpful in helping us get the most out of our trips. Please post upon return!!!

Carol

 

[MOM POPPINS]

Have a great trip WiscMomof2 !