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

[disneywith6kids]

We were in such a daze as we left home I think we left our freezer door open( well maybe its just snow) LOL I can't believe it was close to 80 degrees here today and my friends at home in NJ were shoveling snow!!! We're having a great time. Tour guide Mike was right about his MK itinerary plan-we did everything in FL in 1 hour. We finished frontier land and left at noon . BTW my 7 yr old DD was asked to open FL at rope drop-we were thrilled for her!! The CM gave her a pass for the 8 of us to ride any ride in FL that day through the exit. So right before we left all 8 of us rode Dumbo with no wait!!! Pixie dust is falling everywhere! Today we caught the 5:15 CP show and my DF and I sat in the deaf section. He doesn't sign but he does read lips he really enjoyed the show well so did we all!! We ate at B+C for lunch around 2:30 we used 4 vouchers and split everything---we couldn't order the kitchen sink because we were too stuffed from the food (great food) We took the water taxi and got our first glimpse of the Dolphin -my DF and I said WOW-I can't wait!The kids were mumbling a little that they wished we could stay there (they have no idea what we have up our sleeves) the wait is killing me-oh well I try to enjoy each moment.

BTW I have a friend shipping our Christmas presents down to the Dolphin .I was wondering how early I could have them sent. I'm worried that they won't get there in time due to the Christmas rush. We will be there from the 20- 27 but I want to put the presents under the tree for Christmas morning. Let me know what you think -thanks

 

[Mouseteacher]

Looking out of my office window... a winter wonderland it is!!! Snow is still gently falling but not accumalating. Certainly, a great Christmas feel.

However, I long for the sunny days of summer and the Dolphin grotto pool. On days like this, I close my eyes and remember lounging in the little space that juts out right near the waterfall (if you're looking directly at the waterfall it is to the right side); listening to the small band that plays nearby on certain days.

 

[lvm99]

Does anyone know how far it is to Beaches and Cream at the Yacht Club from the Dolphin. We meet family for dinner there using connections vouchers. Any advice?

 

[lovingthemouse]

Trust me- my palate alone can answer this question - walking about 15 -20 minutes at a leisurely pace around the other side of the boardwalk. We have easily found that the walk toward the Beach Club side is shorter!!! Enjoy!!!!!!! Caroline

 

[lvm99]

What do you mean by Beach Club side? I hear the food is great. Have you use the vouchers at resort hotels before? This is our first trip. We are staying at Dolphin resort. Is it best to walk or take a bus?

 

[dreamflight99]

LOL...HT~"YOU'VE BEEN JUANED"! It's an experience in itself. Ahem. Ohh...I agree about the "vacuous" spaciousness of the mighty DOLPHIN. We too appreciate the grandeur, and the nooks and crannies to tuck into for a little reclusive relaxation. Great place to "HIDE 'N SEEK" too! The massages are "heavenly" and a fab price/deal. "Tubster's" is the master of the 'ole kitchen lunch-line food prep! Recall the "TURKEY FRICASSEE" of the school cafes? Tubster's offered a rendition this summer, sans the white-capped matrons. Cafeteria memories flooded into recall. LOL.
THE CK rules over the CS @ Swan? I presumed as much. The view alone is worth it (more elevated, better scape). The DOLPHIN-FISH-KOI-CARP p) atop the structure will grant your wish, and the beds will be renovated to the heavenly CLOUDS you enjoyed at the SWAN. I hope they are in the EXEC STE when we arrive in July! Tell MM & Bro MACK accepts the invite (Wow...W/H estate), and will come prepared w/lots of liver pate dreams and evian wishes for all!

Disneywith6kids... I'd give the parcels ample time to arrive. Have her mail it with a "tracking number or delivery confirmation number" and you'll be able to trace it online! Then, when you see it has arrived at the Dolphin, call the resort and speak with a MANAGER (please, take the name). Inform them the parcel has arrived there for you and you will be checking-in on the 20th, but need the package held for your arrival. This should not be a problem, especially if you speak directly with a manager of the resort. Glad to read you are having such a great time. The kids will be so surprised when you arrive at the DOLPHIN to STAY! I'm excited for you!! I love reading your posts...so drop some more when you are able. Enjoy the MAGIC!

LVM99...I believe Caroline means the "walk is faster if you take the Beach club route" which translates to "walk from the Dolphin to the Boardwalk and head towards Epcot (over By ESPN club) cross the bridge and hang a left. You can cut through the pool...you can't miss it" (as it is a tad longer if you go all around the Yacht club side). Those vouchers are the BEST at BEACHES and CREAM. The Prime Rib Sandwich is FABULOUS...as are the FRESH ONION RINGS and the KITCHEN SINK for DESSERT! All the food is divine. The voucher permits you to get all these and more. It's a TREMENDOUS VALUE! Enjoy.

 

[lovingthemouse]

OMG DF - you know the route as well as we do!!!!!!!! Yes, that is the correct translation. Kind of like our footprints are there just waiting to be revived trip after trip.
LVM - the food is incredible - we do believe they have the best burgers on Disney property and if you can get a good group together you must share their humungous sundae - made for 4 or more. No, we have never used vouchers there, wouldn't that be nice, but we have spent money there!
Why are you guys making me salivate so????? Still have 70 days before we get there. Caroline

 

[jgates]

If the weather is a bit on the inclement side, don't forget the nice Friendship boats. They depart approx every 15 minutes. Heading towards Epcot I believe (??) we stopped at the Y&B docks before it headed to the Boardwalk dock.

We really enjoyed those boat rides.

 

[Muffy]

DF99, I read your post with interest about the massages at the Dolphin being "heavenly/fab price deal". DD and I are getting a massage while DH does Richard Petty race car driving experience. We were going to go to the GF spa but may try the Dolphin since it sounds like a heavenly/fab price deal! Please tell me a little more about the Dolphins massages! 23 more days! Thanks for all you great info!

Muffy

 

[disneywith6kids]

I think we might have brought some of that NJ weather with us But nothing will stop this family--went to FW for rope drop rode TT 3 x's in a row no wait. Did Honey I shrunk the audience after we got our FP and enjoyed the Living Seas. The CM kept insisting we didn't need the FP but it was nice to be able to explore LS and then walk right into HIStA. Sorry about the abbreviations-I'm a slow typist-and time is pecious
then off to Mexico and Norway-we FP Norway and went back and rode Mexico's ride no wait-went to get on Norway and there was about 1/2 hour wait(for those without FP) then back into Innov. E +W no crowds here -they were all in WS by now. Got a great picture in front of epcot-It was well worth the money! I'll try to scan it when I get back. Saw illuminations after a stroll on the BW got there just as it started and got a spot on the bridge-best view!!! Again DF said wow!!! how did they do that? He's beginning to realize DW is not just a little kid's park. Did I mention he was thrilled to see Tapestry of Dreams? He couldn't get over the puppets? reaching over to shake our hands.BTW this plan worked out real well considering the cold drizzle we faced all day we were not wet at all!!


Today we are resort hopping to see some of those Christmas decorations-if time allows we'll be visiting the SW+D tonight-can't wait!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[lvm99]

What upgrade is available at the Dolphin for platinum members? I faxed a copy of my diamond Hyatt statement to spg today and was told it would take 2 -3 days to post on my spg account to platinum. I was planning on calling the Dolphin directly since I made the res. there. We need 2 rooms because of the large family. Also celebrating anniversary and ds 16th bday. I hope the Dolphin is as nice as the other disney deluxes.

 

[dreamflight99]

LVM... plat.amenities are SPLENDID. Please refer to SPG.com for the list...& enjoy the status. Yes, Dolphin/SWan are as nice (or nicer)as the Disney owned props. I'll post more later...DREAM

 

[Troyfus]

Platinum SPG status must be a lot of fun based on your posts, DF. Reading about them here and on the SPG website can give a person goosebumps with anticipation. I too was matched from a Diamond Hyatt membership after reading the hints on these boards.
I do have a few last minute questions seeing that my family's time draws nigh!
Based on a $129 gov rate, 2 Adult & 2 boys, NYE night/NY morning check in: What room would you ask/hope for? Knowing what to ask for can obviously make a difference.
Oatmeal soaps: How do you accumulate extras for bringing home?
Heavenly robes: you were comped a pair once by asking. Can you refresh my memory on how you did this?

I am so looking forward to this trip. I sure hope the weather plays along. Thank you all so much for these posts! They have helped me so much in the planning and building of anticipation for this trip. After reading these posts I went from a "which package/financial burden to choose" to a "this is a quest to fulfill my family's dreams" type of planner. Again....Thank you!

 

[ozziewags]

Troyfus Don't wait to ask and hope for if you are Platinum, call now and let them know. You will be upgraded to a jr suite on club level! (for $129) Then you can put in your request for views. Within 5 days of your trip call again and ask for views you would like and see what they can give you.
Can't help with robe question, although I think DF just called down and asked for them. That's what I am going to do! (jr suite, CL) I do know that many people bring home extra oatmeal soap!!
We are leaving NYE, so there is one jr suite that will be available. My son's birthday is NYE and he will be 21. What a day to turn 21!

 

[Muffy]

Ozziewags, You will leave the dolphin the day after we arrive! Your trip is almost here! I'm sure you are excited with the holiday and vacation planning all at once. What a great way to top Christmas! Tell your son Happy birthday for me! PS, my son recently turned 23! wink!

 

[Troyfus]

ozziewags,
Too bad we are just going to miss each other. Maybe we can get the Jr Suite you vacate. We'll have to compare #s later. In the meantime, wish your son a Happy Birthday for me on the big day. My sons have a while to go (5 & 9).
As for you, A Day Early Happy Birthday to you!

 

[ozziewags]

Thank you, Troyfus, for the birthday wishes!!! All three of us come and go right after the other! Everyone have a great trip....I just bought a new Canon S30 digital camera....can't wait to use it!!!

 

[Iowan]

I just discoverd this forum on Wednesday and we are leaving on 12/24 for a week long stay at the Dolphin. I have briefly scanned the various posts, but wonder what am I not doing. Any and all help/suggestions are welcom.

Since I discovered this site I did start an SPG and let Dolphin know my number and did apply for the credit card, but did not get instant approval, said it would be 7-10 days via mail. Oh well --

Have a ressie at teacher/govt rate with a view of Lake Crescent.

Will be arriving at MCO approx 6 pm on 24th, worth it to purchase UPH for that day? Can they be purchased at the Dolphin or is their a better way to purchase? Guess if we don't get there on Christmas Eve, they don't expire.

DD is 3 and DS is 7 and they are so anxious for our trip.

What about airport transportation? Travel agency says they often use Quick Transportation.

I need lots of guidance

 

[ozziewags]

Welcome Iowan.......sounds like you are ready to me. As for transportation, some rent cars, some take Mears shuttle, some take towncar services and some even take limos! Best bet is to check this board under the transportation headline and you will find another wealth of information. Personally, we are taking a town car from the airport with http://www.yourride.net Then we will use disney transportation the whole time. You can get your UPH when you get there, but you can also ask that they cut off the first or last day if you arrive late or leave early. It is my understanding that you can only do that at the front desk(or the disney desk, in this case).

 

[happytrails2u]

Originally posted by dreamflight99
"Tubster's" is the master of the 'ole kitchen lunch-line food prep! Recall the "TURKEY FRICASSEE" of the school cafes? Tubster's offered a rendition this summer, sans the white-capped matrons. Cafeteria memories flooded into recall. LOL.

Lol...Turkey Fricassee, Turkey Tetrazzini, Hot Open Turkey Sandwich, Turkey and Dumplings (eeek - lol)...thankfully one of our friend's Moms worked in the high school cafeteria and always gave us an extra carton of milk to wash it all down

By the way, here's a great site to build your own photo pages and is relatively easy to do. No HTML or web design knowledge needed either, they do this for you. All that's needed on your end is to upload the pictures you have stored in your computer. It's a great way to photo-chronicle your trips.

I've just added an album which includes several photos of a newly renovated Jr. Suite at the Swan. This Jr. Suite has a balcony and was located at one of the corners of the resort which provided additional windows and views. There are a few other albums here as well, including our Dolphin stay last spring and photos of our Corner King room w/turret and regular balcony. Enjoy!

Swan Photos