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

[Muffy]

Hope you're having fun HappyTrails! Thanks for the link to swan pixs!

 

[ozziewags]

Thanks Happytrails........nice job. Can't wait. Looks verrrry nice. Did you have plenty of room? We need to put up a roll away! Four of us, and our kids are older.

 

[NancyIL]

I just got back last night from my 7-night stay at the Swan for DIS-CON. I had a renovated room, and the heavenly bed was fabulous!

 

[happytrails2u]

Good morning all,

One caveat on the Swan photos: The site asks you to set-up a log-in name and password prior to viewing the photos. Rest assured that this is a free site and you will not be bothered with endless junk mail/spam. Just make sure the areas for newsletter, product information and special offers are unchecked. I spotted this site through another link on this board, (community forum, I think) when I was viewing another DIS member's photos.

Thanks Muffy, we actually returned last week and are still having fun - - just not as much.

Hi Ozziewags...much appreciated. We had plenty of room, the extra space in the corner (where the dining table and desk are) made all the difference. Also having a balcony always increases the space of the room as well, IMO. With four in a room, I might opt for the two room configuration, if staying at the Swan. What they refer to as a Jr. Suites (at the Swan) was formerly called Studios, which are essentially a standard room with extra "L-shaped" space for the dining table, desk and mini-bar. There's also a nice, upholstered side chair near the glass slider that I moved i/f/o the opened balcony door late one afternoon and enjoyed a half-hour of the Florida sun, while DW "hit" the Dolphin stores. "Somebody has to do it," she tells me. We all need those few moments of solice at WDW, whether it's catching a few z's or perusing the shops.

 

[Bimmy56]

We put the oatmeal soap bars in our suitcase, so each day they leave out another one. If you have 1 "used " bar in the tub, they will usually leave a fresh bar on the vanity, so we just keep hiding these. The bars last so long, I am still using one of the 4 that I brought home in June!!

 

[Muffy]

Happytrails2u, Welcome back! It sounds like the Dolphin Jr. Suite is a bit larger than the Swans?! I have a diagram of the Dolphin jr. suite and it is 2 rooms, with 2 entry doors, 2 bathrooms, 2 TV's. I know the renovated heavenly room at the Swan had to be very comfy. We will be visiting the dolphin (jr. suite) in 21 days. can you tell I'm excited? I loved hearing about your vacation! I'm glad you had a great time!

I would love some info on the massages at the Dolphin if anyone has tried them. Thanks!

Muffy

 

[adisneyfan2]

Ozziewags, I notice you will be leaving NYE, which is your son's 21st B-day. Any chance you would be interested in breakfast for five at Cinderella's Royal Table before you go? I have to cx a ressie for 9:10am that day. Let me know. I'm sure your son isn't going to swoon over the princesses, but still it might be a nice way to start the big day! Let me know...

 

[happytrails2u]

Originally posted by Muffy
Happytrails2u, Welcome back! It sounds like the Dolphin Jr. Suite is a bit larger than the Swans?

I would love some info on the massages at the Dolphin if anyone has tried them. Thanks!

Muffy

You bet Muffy, I'm not quite sure that the former studio @ the Swan merits the term suite, but you're right - - the Jr. Suite at the Dolphin would be the way to go for more than two guests, IMO. There is also a two room configuration at the Swan (similar to the Jr. Suite at the Dolphin) that we looked at, but we really didn't need the extra space for the short time that we were there.

The massages (and staff that administers same) are terrific. We never leave the resort without endulging. It's such a deserving way to treat yourselves and unwind while on vacation too. And there were several of us DH's there too for those fellas that think it's for women only. It's great too for those old sports injurys (fellas) or any remaining scar tissue from any injuries incurred in our younger years. DW and I generally opt for a half hour or hour Swedish (as opposed to deep massage). I tell the therapist to cover as much area as she can in the time allotted, rather than just focusing on the back or neck only. That way, you get the "full monty" (lol) feet, hands, head, the works! Nothing like it! The facility is clean as a whistle too. I'm sure you and yours will thoroughly enjoy it.

 

[disnurse]

Any have any idea how much in points for one of the fabulous dolphin suites. Gold status booked in reg, non-specific view currently.

 

[ozziewags]

adisneyfan2..........thank you for thinking of us, but we will pass on Cindy's. We go there for lunch and have been to the breakfast, but not real impressed. Ever since my son was young(!) he has always chosen to go to the Sci Fi, so we are doing that for an early lunch before we leave. It is so funny how kids enjoy traditions, and you don't realize it until they get older and actually tell you. Never thought he would still want to go there for his birthday, but he does! Thanks again.

 

[adisneyfan2]

You're welcome Troyfus -- just wanted to offer!

Can anybody tell me more about SciFi? I've read about it a couple times now, but never heard of it before [that I remember ;o)] Anyhow, wondering if it would be appealing to my DKs, 7-1/2 & 5 yo. Any feedback appreciated. Our trip is coming up SOON, so I doubt we would luck into PSs, but you never know. Anyway, thanks!!

 

[Muffy]

Happytrails2u,
Thanks, that is just what I wanted to know! Now DD and I won't have to trek to the GF for a massage. DH is going to try the Richard Petty Driving Experience and we are going to get a massage!

I see you are from Boston, my fav city! My son (Tufts grad) lives in Medford and works in Cambridge! Small world I guess!

Muffy

 

[happytrails2u]

Indeed it is a small world Muffy. DW and I also lived in CT (Wethersfield) for three years, before moving back to Boston. My nephew also resides in Medford. Tufts is an outstanding school - - kudos to your son for his accomplishment.

Enjoy the day folks.

 

[dreamflight99]

(Born/raised in) Medford..checking in! (LOL)

Just returned from the HEAVENLY mountain retreat in Lake Arrowhead. Ahhh...the weather was Crisp, the Village Shops all aglow in Christmas BEST...the Resort decked-out in it's finest! Our corner suite overlooks the pool/alpine and Lake. The multi-million dollar mansions which surround this lake were all appointed with a multitude of lights and decorations. It was a heart-warming sight in the eves with the lights bouncing off the water. The stars are bright/clear and seem much closer at this altitude. During the day, the lake comes alive with all the "Woody's" (Chris Craft, etc.) cutting ripples through the glass-like surface from edge to edge. The trout in the lake are in abundance this time of year.

There are Black bear, Bobcat, Mountain Lion, Fox, etc. meandering about. The Grey Squirrels and the Blue Jay's seem to be plentiful, (red-headed/crested woodpecker too!) My DD delighted in feeding the Jays, (very bold..no fear of humans), as they would land on the balcony and take food from her hand. Their colors are so vivid, and the big black crest atop their heads so prominent/regal!

The Resort Tree is spectacular, with a Holiday train and Gingerbread Village surrounding the raised base. They celebrated the "official" lighting ceremony on Sunday eve, where we enjoyed Dicken's Carolers, fresh-baked chocolate dipped shortbread, chocolates, hot-spiced cider, coffee, cocoa, eggnog, etc.! It was loads of fun. We also indulged in some fine in-room dining, while watching Charlie Brown's Christmas (tradition ala "Sparky") on the Tele! LOL. We took in a flick (Adam Sandler's toon) in Blue Jay, and then headed down the mountain to Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park.

What a great day we had at the park...no crowds either. Just laughter and smiles as we played and rode the rides and reminiced about visits past. Snoopy & the Gang reside here. We have made annual sojourns here for the past 15 years, since DD was an infant. Continuity should never be underestimated. Another splendid journey in life, another memory etched in the mind.

Welcome back...Nancy! It has been a looong time since I've heard from you. So glad to read you had fun at the DisCon (details?) and the Heavenly beds. Hope the Holidays are going well for you, and you'll be together with your children and family.

Happy Trails...LOL, extra milk to "Wash it all down" ! Great website for the pics, thanks. Have to agree with you on the Massage therapy...DH and I indulge all the time (Swedish too). It's just good for the soul, if not the muscle/vascular/nervous system! It also tends to foil the effects of minor forms of rheumatoid Arthritis...so studies claim. Either way, it certainly FEELS DIVINE, and changes ones perspective for the remainder of the day...possibly more!

adisneyfan2...SCIFI is AWESOME! It would most definitiely appeal to your DK's. Please, request a CAR. It is a great experience, be sure to remember your camera.

OATMEAL SOAPS: Please, remove these from the vanity tray/basket each day. If you do not...they will not be replaced. You may also either: leave a note in the empty tray/basket requesting lots of extra oatmeal soap...and they will leave extra, OR you may call housekeeping and just request some EXTRA oatmeal soap. They will promptly deliver more to your room.
You may perform these actions more than once, to fulfill the "oatmeal soap" addiction.

HEAVENLY BATH ROBES: We called down to the housekeeping for the robes to be brought up to our rooms. After they had dry-cleaned these a second time (Free of charge), I exclaimed how VERY much I admired them, and would like to bring them home (half-joking). The associate I spoke with told me to keep them as a gift.

Muffy...Ditto the NOD for your Tuft's Grad! Petty Driving Experience has also given our heads a turn. We enjoy thrills, and this seems SURE to deliver. Please, be sure to offer details after he has "gone the distance"! (NASCAR fan?).

TTFN...DREAM

 

[Muffy]

dreamflight99, sounds magicial! Welcome back and thanks for the kind words!

 

[Mouseteacher]

Welcome back DF99! Your sojourn sounded heavenly! Thanks for sharing. I'm just plugging away keeping all our school cherubs from getting too excited during this most exciting time of the year for them! LOL

 

[jgates]

Ah, DF what a wonderful escape. I'd even take a weekend in Wisconsin Dells right now! I need a break from my life..........

Waiting........July 2004, WDW Swan - Club Level.

(One of these days I'll get the counter in).

 

[dreamflight99]

Thanks everyone! I only wish you could all accompany me on these little get-aways. I just adore the break from the day-to-day monotony...and the "leave it all behind" philosophy I seem to "immediately" & continually embrace the moment my foot leaves the threshold! LOL. Can everyone relate?

Muffy...You are welcome! The praise is "much-deserved", as you had a definite hand in the winning deck of cards (metaphorically speaking!) on this game. Raising a "decent human being" takes tenacity, patience, love, understanding, patience, love, nurturing, patience, love, sacrifice, patience, love...and did I mention...LOVE?
The unconditional...selfless...infinite...LOVE. So, my dear, be proud, take a bow and an extra pat on the back...for a tremendous JOB...well-done!

Mouseteacher...I envy you! In the "constant company of ANGELS" is a place I would cherish each and every moment. I'm sure you do...especially the "defining" ones! LOL. Have fun with your Small-winged friends.

jgates...You can ALWAYS escape...in your mind. Get away "vicariously", and DREAM the DREAM in full-vivid technicolor...with you as the star. The MIND is a MAGICAL force. When I'm unable to travel...and wish I were away, it's no further than closing my eyes...lighting a candle...soaking in a tub with some soothing sounds. Calgon is an added plus...but I immerse in Philosophy (Cinnamon buns..yummy). Afterward, I always feel refreshed and renewed...sans the expense and packing/unpacking! LOL. So...dream a little dream, for me.
*And get the counter thing going so you can peel the days away in front of your eyes (literally!).

TTFN...DREAM

 

[dreamflight99]

"thirteen shopping days remain"...are you finished yet? All wrapped? Decorated too? THEN COME OVER AND HELP ME!!!

 

[Mouseteacher]

Not anywhere near done! For some reason which I haven't figured out yet, I just keep spinning my wheels! I don't have a good grip on what needs to be done. I'm usually very organized and have a plan. Do you think the "season" sneaked in with Thanksgiving coming so late this year?

DF ~ our school "angels", ahem I mean students, are in high gear and we still have another week to go with our annual Christmas pageant next week, too! Although, we are very busy being Santa's helpers! The entire school community has adopted three very needy families - 3 single moms with a total of 9 children ranging in ages from 20 months old to 12 years old. We are collecting all kinds of presents by having a mom from each class be the shopper for their designated child. The faculty and staff have adopted the moms. It is quite wonderful to see everyone's generousity and the students excitement about helping others. Our middle school students are filling stockings for teenagers who are in the care of DSS. Soooooooo... we are quite busy in addition to the business of learning!