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

[Mouseteacher]

CL is 12 and I believe 14th floor.

 

[zurgswife]

NO CL privliges for Exec or Grand Suites....

I was so hoping to experience the CL level....

 

[dreamflight99]

Maggie...I do not believe you are able to upgrade with a hotwire ressie, but please...do not take my word for it. ASK when you arrive, and they may very well permit you to upgrade to CL. Good luck...either way, you are in WDW...at the DOLPHIN! I'm sure you'll have a MAGICAL time. I'm so glad you are excited about it!

zurgswife...Mouseteacher is correct, this is the "official" floors of CLUB LEVEL. Yet, club level was always offered to SUITES. I'm stunned by your post. Did someone confirm this over the phone/email? Still, I would wait until "check-in" before I would count-out CL option. There are EXEC & GRAND suites located ON CL...so I know they offer the privs.

Also, as a PLAT. member, I receive CL...no matter WHERE I stay in the (or any Starwood) resort. I'm always in a suite, and have never had a problem obtaining CL privs. Are you PLAT. SPG? (GOLD?). Do not give up...and do not give-in....until you have ASKED in PERSON @ CHECK-IN! I know numerous persons whom have recently stayed in the Dolphin & Swan, in suites, with CL privs...and not all are platinum members, either. Keep the Faith.

 

[2002Disneybride]

We stayed on the 12th floor...room 1256 to be exact.
The best part of our stay was Thabo an Mama T. I was a little disappointed with the CL lounge hours...I thought even if they didn't have a spread that we'd be able to get drinks etc whenever...I guess I misunderstood..I enjoyed everything else though!
thanks...

 

[hookedup]

Hello all,
Okay I know that this info has been readily available and I know I have seen this asked before but now that "I" need it of course I have to ask again so please bear with me...

so according to what I have read the Swan rennovations were supposed to be completed in May (is that true are they done?) and the Dolphin's were supposed to follow shortly thereafter. With this in mind what are the plans for the Dolphin? Also I remember reading that Tubbi's and some of the food areas were also going to be closed - is that true? If so what are the dates for that?

I have booked the Dolphin for our trip in early August but a friend of ours told us to consider switching to the Swan because the Dolphin is going to be under rennovation when we are there and why stay in an unrenovated room when we could switch to the Swan and have a newly refurbished room? Of course it didn't help that was after someone else told us that she would never stay at the Dolphin again (not really a Disney resort, hallways dirty) blah blah blah, ad infinitem ad nauseum, etc. etc. etc.

Both DH & I agree that the value for the money can't be beat at the S&D so we don't need convincing there - however we are starting to wonder about whether we should switch to the Swan.

Appreciate your thoughts here...

 

[dreamflight99]

Disneybride...so glad you had a good time. Some of the concierge I have used in other resorts, have beverages available all-day (open clubs with 24-hr. concierge/security). So, when I discovered the Dolphin/Swan did not...I merely "STOCKED-UP" (LOL), so when it was closed, I still had my own personal stash of soda, water, etc.! This made it all better.

hookedup... you are correct in your assumptions. The Dolphin is currently undergoing renovations, but Tubbi's is not closing (to my knowledge), and the rooms there are still clean & comfy (IMOHO). If you are set on obtaining a renovated room, I would switch to the Swan (there are plenty). I, however, stay loyal to the Dolphin...come rain or shine. They could remove the walls and renovate "around" me...I would not care. I'm staying there a month this summer, maybe longer. I'm partial to the "old whimsical" theme, so I'm hoping my suite is NOT renovated yet...but I have a feeling it has been.

At the end of our long stay last summer, some workers knocked on our door with security, and had to take "measurements" for the renovations of our suite. Perhaps the suites and club level will be the ones they do first. In some Westin Properties, only Club level rooms and suites actually have the heavenly beds..I'm not so sure about Sheraton and the sweet sleeper. The Dolphin & Swan are not for everyone (the person with whom you spoke), and we are thankful for these folks. After all, if EVERYONE loved it~there would be no room for US!

 

[4our4kids]

Hi everyone!
I just switched my reservations from a deluxe "Disney" resort to the fantastic nurses rate at the Dolphin (shhhh, don't tell)! I have 3 rooms booked, my parents in one, and 2 rooms for my family of 6, for 9 nights-mid August.

We stayed in the Dophin in '94. Booked thru a travel agent at the last minute and paid whatever she told us the price was (yikes!!). It was our first trip to WDW and we were there for 5 days. I don't remember much about the hotel except that we had a parking lot view, wished we had more time to spend at the pool, and thought the hotel location was great.

Now I'm already considering calling back to upgrade to a balcony for 2 of the rooms (would really like to have a water or epcot view), or maybe even a 2bdrm exec. suite! Too many great options. I have 3 teens and a 3 yr old.

Can I get some insight and tips from you veterans. What choices would you make?

Thanks.

 

[dreamflight99]

The SWAN/DOLPHIN are wonderful resorts, and the NURSES rate (with up to THREE ROOMS per RESSIE!) is FANTABULOUS!

I would email a "request" using the form on the website www.swandolphin.com and make sure to include your reservation number. Ask for a "water/park view w/balcony", and you should at least obtain ONE balcony room...perhaps even two (the rooms are every-other-on on the wings, so adjoining rooms will leave you with one/two balconies for three connecting rooms).

Many persons traveling under the nurses rate have received most all the requests similar to these. In fact, I just read a post about a DISer, whom used the hotwire rate of $81 per eve, and received a renovated room with water view! Amazing accomodations for that price.

MAGIC happens EVERY DAY at the Dolphin/Swan. I'm sure you'll experience it too. Especially since you stayed in a room w/view of the parking lot (probably paid a lot more than the nurses rate), and did NOT complain (bless your heart). I'm confident you'll enjoy your stay and time together with your lovely family.

 

[Mouseteacher]

DF ~ I just saw your countdown clock - just a little over a month to go - lucky you!!!!

 

[4our4kids]

Thanks for the information Dreamflight99.

When I made the reservation, I tried to book 2 king rooms and the rep. said it is a request only. She told me the rooms are assigned on a first come basis, so I have to take my chances upon check-in. Perhaps I'll put that on the Sawn/Dolphin speacial request form, as well as the balcony request.

I never thought to ask for a balcony or any other type of upgrade (as evidenced by my paying rack rate for my parking lot view last time!!) without paying for it. I have a SPG# maybe it will help.

When do you e-mail your special requests if they assign rooms on a first come basis?

 

[crc6]

Hello all,

After a few days of "avid" reading, I have finally reached the end of this thread, and couldn't wait to post to say how fantastic this information is! I adore reading the posts from all you "regulars," and I love reading about everyone's vacation experiences!

I am happy to report that I can join the ranks of those you "regulars" have convinced to give the Swan and Dolphin a try! I have booked a long weekend at the end of July on CL at the Dolphin (switched from YC). I am so excited - I've cruised through both the S and D on previous trips to the World but until now had always thought I'd prefer the Disney resorts...

Was I crazy or what? I have also booked rooms for December for my brother and his gf and myself and bf. It will be a true "grand finale" for our 10-day trip (staying with parents prior to that at the BWVs). After reading through this fabulous thread, I have convinced the rest of my family that we have GOT to try the S/D!!!

Thanks to all for the posts, and keep 'em coming - you all have been more helpful to me than you'll ever know!

Caitlin

 

[dreamflight99]

Originally posted by 4our4kids
When do you e-mail your special requests if they assign rooms on a first come basis?

The sooner, the better. Then, follow it up with a "reminder" email about three days prior to arrival. Include your reservation #, as well as your SPG# on your request form. Good Luck!

Mouseteacher... I have not even "cracked" a suitcase yet! You know me...the "last of the Last-minute" packers!" HeHe!

crc6... WELCOME! Wow, Caitlin, you are indeed an avid READER (that's a LOT of pages!). So happy to read you have made plans to visit the SWAN/DOLPHIN, and join us regulars! It's ONE of the (If not THE) BEST KEPT SECRETS of WDW. You will have a wonderful time. Feel free to ask any/all questions you may have about these resorts. Everyone here is so helpful and friendly, and will bend over backwards to assist you in any way possible. Glad to have you onboard.

*Note: DD has "adopted" a week+ old baby Toulouse Goose. We plan to care for this baby until we leave for Fla. (when we will release it into the sanctuary where it was found). A friend of ours notified us of the "lost/abandoned" baby, and we took it in with open arms. It's absolutely "precious", and enhances each new day. Just wished for all of you to know...the Ornithology-bug is alive and well in our household!

 

[RobMax]

Well I was underwhelmed with the Poly. They had geat treats in the concierge like sushi and really nice wine and liquors ... BUT ...

The main "Hawaii" smelled like week old cloths from scout camp. Mildew hell. As you know, I live in hotels so I must (arrogant) have some level of service. Not at the Poly. Many of the guests at the poly knew more than the concierge group. Hey - the pool is fun and the monorail is handy (but it was out of service one day and we had to wait 50 minutes for a bus at TTC).

We have had a great time. There are NO lines. I normally come in the nov-dec down time. Well - the lines are lower now which is what I projected (the prof is a moron be damned from the other link.) For example - at 1:30 Buzz was 15 min, Pirates was walk on and when our little DS got upset - they put us in an empty boat with and empty in front and in back ... wow! No wait anywhere in epcot - 25 min for test track at 1pm.

Pools are empty.

We are in room 1270 of the Swan club level. We are in the closest and highest room to MGM. We can also see all of world showcase and there is a balcony next to the stairs that gives you Future world and MK in the distance. I met the manager when I moved in and he said it was his favorite room in the hotel. The JOHN is HUGE!!! but it is smaller than the Dolphin JR suite. No Balcony - no 2nd room, OK.

I now think the Dolphin has better club level, but opportunities for upgrades may be better here...and then there is the bed my 1 yr old is dead in!!!!!!!!!!!! Heavenly


So now I as you -ASK THE PROFESSOR!!!!!!!!!!!! I WILL CHECK BACK 2X PER DAY

Not a pub gals - no spell or gramar check!!!

 

[#1hockeymom]

Your room sounds fantastic!! I have to say, even the parks sound fantastic! I realize that everything will totally fill up during June as the schools let out, but just maybe, maybe, I won't spend my entire vacation in a line!

1270 eh? Is that a "regular" club level room? I have club level booked!! Could you grab a crayon (parents only have crayons available) WAIT you'll have the swan pen! I digress... could you please, pretty please write my name on the door to your room, with the dates 23-28th of June? Then I figure I will be covered for that "What do you think? Do you think your name is just ON the best room in the place?" "Why yes, Sir, it is! Thank you for asking!"

Please keep us updated!

Dreamflight>> what a cutie!! We have been a home away from home for a pair of ducks this spring. They're landing in our pool, with the winter cover still on! They paddle around for about an hour, quacking away, then jump on the pool mat my son threw in for them and rest for another hour or so. I have named them Tony and Carmelia (Soprano). I hope they don't lay eggs around here since we do have a dog and a cat!

21 "school days" left!

Debbie

 

[hookedup]

Okay Professor - here goes question #1
Are you using the high speed internet? Is is in ALL the rooms? The reason why I am asking is because sometimes when I stay at Starwood properties not all rooms have the "Turbonet" access.
Sounds like you are having a good time! ENJOY!!!!
I will be there in August and have Dolphin Club Level ressies but I am pondering switching to the Swan. Yet I read you say that you think the Dolphin Club level may be better -- why???
We have a 3 year old ds and I wanted to be closer to Tubbis and the other Dolphin facilities but I am highly tempted to try Swan club level and the rennovated rooms.
I will enjoy hearing your reports!!!
Have fun!!

 

[dreamflight99]

RobMax...Sounds AMAZING! I do prefer the CL in the Dolphin to the Swan, as well (W/exception to the Staff!). All is going swimmingly for you & yours. I too, had similar opinions of the POLY (read:www.disboards.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=377044) I've heard the complaints of "mildew/mold" odors...which makes me even more apprehensive to revisit this resort. Enjoy...and PLEASE, write more!

Debbie...21 days left? Whew! DD has about 10 (including finals). What a cute story about the "Sprano's" in your backyard pool! We've had a pair of Mallard's do this on occasion, but they only stay a week/two at the most. Our new addition is a wonderful guest. Very low-key, calm and quiet (intelligent as well). We are having fun taking care of one of God's own creatures. We simply have a weakness for animals.

 

[zurgswife]

i talked to 3 different people at resservation center....all said that there are not any suites on the CL at the Dolphin....

Now I'm really confused....

I thought I read a few pages back that CL was now restricted to people staying on those floors....

 

[ozziewags]

zurgswife....I know you are exec. suite, but I also know that mompoppins stayed on CL at the Dolphin in a jr. suite...here is her post:

Kapp: The Junior suite we stayed in had a queen size pull down murphy bed in it. There was plenty of room in the jr. suite for the 6 of us. We have a jr. suite reserved for 9 nights when we return in February 2004. The suites are scattered through out the hotel, we stayed on the 14th. floor, (club level is 12 and 14) and had a good view of Epcot at night. We had to look left to see the fireworks, so if you want to look straight ahead, you would need to request a suite in the east wing with club priviledges.

I am quite surprised about this. Maybe it has to do with the renovations?

 

[lonegungirl]

Say...does anyone have any good ideas for the best room setup for 3 people? They would ideally each want a bed, but 2 could share. Can you get a cot with the 2 double beds? Is there a couch with the 2 double beds? Or can you get a cot and sofa bed with the king? Inquiring minds want to know.

Thanks muchly for any info...

 

[happytrails2u]

Originally posted by dreamflight99

Cute as a button, DF!

Love the Soprano namesake ducks too, #1hockeymom - LOL.