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

[jgates]

DF - I don't really know what I need anymore. I have about given up and I'm afraid I will be stuck paying their awful rates. On the website it indicates that a lot of the rates are not available with the 4th night free promo. I was hoping the EntBk still said 50% off and not just 'up to' or 'best available' rate.

I am just in total depression tonite - Dorm Bill $1178 (2 months) - Deposit for next years apartment $413.34 (1/2 - we owe the other kid). Plus thinking I will probably have to rent an apartment for DH for 6 mos @$600/mo if he doesn't end up local (provided he passes all physicals/training for that prison job). (If you end up at a certain facility you have to stay 6 months). Plus mortgage - plus taxes. I WILL NOT cancel this Swan trip! I'm not too worried about the Nashville trip - tickets are paid for - $69 nite for those two nights plus something cheap on the road - gas & food. I think we can do the whole thing for under $500 easy - and part of that is DS's Xmas gift anyway which I would have had to spend. That can come out of my bonus. It's just ALL THIS OTHER STUFF!!!!!

 

[lat]

thanks so much for the tips. I think I will take your advice to cancel the point reservation and just pay cash for the room. Can't wait!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[robinb]

Originally posted by dreamflight99
robinb~did you write SHERATON KAUAI?!? Oh, it's one of my FAVS, next to the Maui Westin! PLAT. SPG can easily opt for a room on any floor and receive CL privs. Just call and inquire, or wait until you arrive. This option, as MOM POPPINS wrote, is being removed from all other reservations. It makes it a little easier for the Concierge to control the people "in & out" of the lounge. Glad you switched ressies (great $aving$ too). Enjoy your stay!

Yes, the Sheraton Kauai . We're returning to the Hilton Waikoloa Villiage on the Big Island (free, on points ) for 6 nights and then over to the Sheraton for 6 nights. We have a Garden View room booked now on cash, but we're hoping for an upgrade. We're doing the new SPG AMEX promotion where you stay 5 nights and earn 1 free weekend night free. My DD is 4 years old *fish* and I heard that the beach at the Sheraton is the best. Plus, the pool looks pretty nice too.

Back to the Dolphin. The reservation agent told me that the resort fee was waived because my DH was PLAT. Is that true if we move to another floor? I requested a renovated suite. Should I also ask for an Epcot view? Is there such an animal? It's just 3 of us, so we really don't *need* the extra room, but my Dh might be working from the room at the start of the week (using that free high speed internet ) and it would be nice to have someplace else for my DD and I to relax.

I'm sorry to ask so many questions! It's hard to mine all the good information on this thread!

 

[Muffy]

Originally posted by robinb

Back to the Dolphin. The reservation agent told me that the resort fee was waived because my DH was PLAT. Is that true if we move to another floor? I requested a renovated suite. Should I also ask for an Epcot view? Is there such an animal? It's just 3 of us, so we really don't *need* the extra room, but my Dh might be working from the room at the start of the week (using that free high speed internet ) and it would be nice to have someplace else for my DD and I to relax.


Robinb, Yes, the Dolphin will waiver the resort fee for Platinums and let you stay off CL with privs. You MUST call the Dolphin directly today 1 407 934 4000 and ask for an upgrade. Ask to speak to the room controler. Then give her your DH's name and Platinum SPG number and ask for a upgrade to a renovated Jr. Suite with an Epcot view if possible. All of us that are Platinum get a Jr. Suite at the Dolphin but must ask in advance. Your DD will LOVE the grotto pool at S/D!

Muffy

 

[dreamflight99]

Originally posted by jgates
DF - I don't really know what I need anymore. I have about given up and I'm afraid I will be stuck paying their awful rates. On the website it indicates that a lot of the rates are not available with the 4th night free promo. I was hoping the EntBk still said 50% off and not just 'up to' or 'best available' rate.

I am just in total depression tonite - Dorm Bill $1178 (2 months) - Deposit for next years apartment $413.34 (1/2 - we owe the other kid). Plus thinking I will probably have to rent an apartment for DH for 6 mos @$600/mo if he doesn't end up local (provided he passes all physicals/training for that prison job). (If you end up at a certain facility you have to stay 6 months). Plus mortgage - plus taxes. I WILL NOT cancel this Swan trip! I'm not too worried about the Nashville trip - tickets are paid for - $69 nite for those two nights plus something cheap on the road - gas & food. I think we can do the whole thing for under $500 easy - and part of that is DS's Xmas gift anyway which I would have had to spend. That can come out of my bonus. It's just ALL THIS OTHER STUFF!!!!!

ARGH.....~You poor kid, you really have my heart. I know how the $$$ thing can get to you, as with all the costs DD has racked-up lately, ie: new car, school tuition, wisdom teeth pulled, and NOW she needs a crown as a molar has cracked (she has the temp already in place), etc.~it never ends~! I just KNOW you can get a better rate for the PBH. I will keep searching, and let you know asap if I see something. The new ENT. Book reflects the rates as the "*LOWEST RATES GUARANTEED" at the time of booking. They USED to be 50% off!! Just hang in there kid, we'll get you there with a better rate, I'm sure of it!

Robin, ~just as Muffy wrote, you are eligible for a waived resort fee, and the Jr. Suite, Epcot view, etc. The extra room provided with the suite is FAB! (Esp. with DH working a bit!...LOL). The picture of your daughter (I presume) is precious! I'll be glad to help you with any other questions, etc.

mouseteacher~I stand corrected! I forgot lat was staying at the SWAN. Thanks for your good observation, and also details of the nice Jr. Suite you received at the Swan.

Enjoy the weekend...all!

TTFN...DF99

 

[jgates]

Thanks DF - your support helps me mentally. I KNOW this will work out. Just some days it seems to mentally crush you. I will say I do approve of the location for the apt DS picked out for fall. Newer building. 2 1/2 blocks south of the Engineering area. Pizza place 1/2 a block away they intend to get a job at. A better deal overall than the 'cells' they stay at in the dorms. He is supposed to be doing road construction this summer so hopefully $$$$ that will help for next school year. I wouldn't even let any of this worry me except for this big job change for DH. He has worked for this place since 1988. That's a long haul anymore. I would be so much more relaxed if I knew he was going to get in local right away. It's just the stupid worrying about a possible apt for DH, paying full-price family health ins until his insurance kicks in - you get the idea. I waitressed part-time for 18 years and finally told them 2 months ago to pull my name out of the computer. I don't know if they ever did or not - the manager said think about it a few weeks - then she quit in the meantime!! But I could go back there in a flash too to fund the trip or pay for apt rent. (Or use our Home Equity - but I hate borrowing!) I just feel I'm too old to work 45 hours at one job then be on my feet for 16 more on a weekend!!! My body has deteriorated slightly with age!!!

I sympathize with the crown - not cheap - My crowns were over $1500 (Is that normal?) but at time I was covered by both his & my insurance so I only had to pay $15 out of pocket .

None of this is on topic......Sorry guys - it's late on a Friday nite and Jen has the mopes.....

 

[Mouseteacher]

I'm right there with you, jgates...one DS is a junior in college and second DS entering in the fall, 4 car insurances and upkeep with 2 under 21 drivers =$$$$ and so many more normal financial obligations that a trip this summer is extremely iffy. Even though both DSs have part-time jobs to help with their cars, we limit the amount of work time because school work is their priority.

We, DH and I, are not exactly "spring chickens" either having children a little later in life. Most people our age have children who are grown and are most likely on their own.

Please keep your chin up and know that sometimes the unexpected happens and you will find a way to go. Know that your sorority sisters and bros are rooting for you!

 

[Disbug]

Just had an interesting conversation with a reservationist at the Swan and Dolphin last night... I called to add on a few nights at the Dolphin for the end of our vacation the last week of this year. I was told that I couldn't even though the rooms were available because I was calling at such a late date... HUH?? I'm calling almost 3 weeks in advance for a 3 night reservation! What's up with that? However, when I went to the website, the room was available for $135 per night (internet rate). Pretty crazy, huh?

 

[ozziewags]

Disbug.....I can hardly believe that they wouldn't take your reservation. They would rather have empty rooms? Be sure to ask for James or Andrew! Go figure.

robin....have you stayed at the Sheraton or Westin Maui? Which would you prefer? I have enough points for 5 nights, do I just call and ask if I can get a room for the nights I want on points? Am a bit anxious about this. Dates are not firm yet.

Well, we lost our friend to cancer this week, so we are all bummed around here. Feeling like everything we do is really pretty unimportant. I am just glad we got there in time to have a nice visit and he knew how much we cared. Hug your dh today, or your dw. Time is fleeting.

 

[MOM POPPINS]

Ozzie ~ My thoughts and prayers are with you....

Dreamflight ~ We have not been to WDW since October 2002. It will have been 1 1/2 years since our last visit. We are all anxious about our upcoming trip. The girls talk about it a lot. They are excited about going to the castle. Although my 9 year old says "it's like waiting in a doctors office, waiting for them to call Smith family", We have not been to the castle since she was 6 and what she remembers is waiting downstairs waiting for our name to be called.

I hope everyone enjoys their weekend.

 

[Muffy]

Ozzie, very sad news to hear that your friend has passed away right at Christmas. Sending my condolences to you and your family. Group hug to you

On a brighter note, I hope you can nail down dates for Maui.

Muffy

 

[purplebelle]

Just a general question which I'm sure is buried in one of the 100s of pages...

Why does Disney own Swan and Dolphin? Weren't they built by company(ies) other than WDW? Did Disney then buy them later? I'm a little confused b/c there are other hotels not owned by WDW that are pretty close to the parks too. Why the need to buy Swan & Dolphin?

I've never stayed at either. Maybe someday...

 

[Mouseteacher]

Purplebelle~ Disney doesn't own the S/D - they are Starwood resorts - a Westin and Sheraton respectively. They are titled the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin. Disney leased the land for them to build the resorts and I'm sure reap some monetary benefit from the Starwood company. Btw. welcome to the thread - hope you can stay at the S/D someday.

ozzie - so sorry for your loss - sure puts so many things in perspective.

 

[Disbug]

So very sorry! You're right about that, Mouseteacher! Everything gets into perspective quickly when a tragedy like that happens...

 

[Disbug]

#1Hockeymom, wasn't it you that posted about the $99 AP rate at the Swan/Dolphin through the end of the year? I can't remember the details. Can anyone help? It may not even be in effect any longer...

Just got through spending an hour getting DD2 all ready for her Christmas party at Shriner's Temple. DH walks in the door with DD9 and our Christmas tree... I smile and show him how adorable DD2 looks and he smiles right back and tells me the party is tomorrow!

 

[joshua4]

Hello all -- I haven't been checking this board for a week or so, my kids both had that awful flu plus lots going on at the office. Kids are better now and I just spent the last 45 minutes catching up on all of your posts.

Dreamflight -- thanks for the idea. My ds does not have a charm bracelet but maybe this would work as a necklace? I will have to check this out.

Anyway, the following little story came to me today in an email from a friend. Typically I do not pay much attention to the many emails that circulate about -- but this one caught my eye - hope you like it:



A professor stood before his philosophy class and had some items in front of him. When the class began, wordlessly, he picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with golf balls. He then asked the students if the jar was full. They agreed that it was.
_
So the professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly. The pebbles rolled into the open areas between golf balls. He then asked the students again if the jar was full. They agreed it was. The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured it into the jar. Of course, the sand filled up everything else. He asked once more if the jar was full. The students responded with a unanimous "yes."
_
The professor then produced two cans of beer from under the table and poured the entire contents into the jar, effectively filling the empty space between the sand. The students laughed._ "Now," said the professor, as the laughter subsided, "I want you to recognize that this jar represents your life. The golf balls are the important things--your family, your children, your health, your friends, your favorite passions--things that if everything else was lost and only they remained, your life would still be full. "The pebbles are the other things that matter like your job, your house, your car. The sand is everything else--the small stuff.
_
"If you put the sand into the jar first," he continued, "there is no
room for the pebbles or the golf balls. The same goes for life. If you spend all your time and energy on! the small stuff, you will never have room for the things that are important to you. Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness. Play with your children. Take time to get medical checkups. Take your partner out to dinner. Play another 18. There will always be time to clean the house, and fix the disposal. "Take care of the golf balls first, the things that really matter. Set your priorities. The rest is just sand."
_
One of the students raised her hand and inquired what the beer
represented.
_
The professor smiled. "I'm glad you asked. It just goes to show you that no matter how full your life may seem, there's always room for a couple of beers."
_
~Author Unknown~

 

[dreamflight99]

Originally posted by Disbug
#1Hockeymom, wasn't it you that posted about the $99 AP rate at the Swan/Dolphin through the end of the year? I can't remember the details. Can anyone help? It may not even be in effect any longer...

Just got through spending an hour getting DD2 all ready for her Christmas party at Shriner's Temple. DH walks in the door with DD9 and our Christmas tree... I smile and show him how adorable DD2 looks and he smiles right back and tells me the party is tomorrow!

Does CHRISTMAS do this to everyone? ...LOL...and to think I thought I was alone in my madness.

MOM POPPINS~ Kids remember the darndest things! I too, have thought "similar" things, while sitting near DD (in the throne chair), awaiting the announcement of our name. It always seems they call everyone else first...then us. Oh well, just tell your DD they always "save the best for last" (LOL). She has a solid sense of humor. I know you will have such a magical time, as little Kirk is accompanying you...and his older sisters must be eager to show him everything! ^_^

mouseteacher~BITE YOUR TONGUE! I consider you a true-blue SPRING CHICKEN...as anyone with a heart full of "WONDER and BELIEF" is nothing other than the SPIRIT and ESSENCE of the fountain of YOUTH~! Spring-away little chickadee!!

*I agree w/you in regards to work, as DD is eager to obtain a job. We have expressed a desire for her to "wait" until next year, as "School" IS her job (esp. her Jr. Year). We are grateful she has such work ethic, and a desire for full autonomy/independence.

Ozzie~So Sorry to hear about your Dear Friend. Certainly gives credence to the aphorism: "Live each day as if it were your last, as someday...it will be." {{{HUGS}}}To you and your loved ones during this difficult time.

*I LOVE the Westin Maui! "Where Heaven and Aloha Meet."

Please: go to www.westinmaui.com for more info & pics.

jgates~Try the site www.univacations.com and search under all the special offers. Having the CHASE Universal card offers the following perks, and much more:
*10% off all in park merchandise
*10% off all Food & Bev (ex/ carts) in the park
*10% off food & bev at more than 8 restaurants in Citywalk
VACATION PKG. SAVINGS:
*Free meals at some of the resorts or free passes to wet & wild.
*Use your CHASE U. S. Mastercard and receive:
*4th night FREE
*FREE ROOM UPGRADE
*FREE use of health club/spa (which is HEAVENLY!)
*Vacation coupon booklet
*Shopping/dining discount certs.
*Admission savings of 10% or greater when tickets are *purchased online.

Not to mention...POINTS for REWARDS~!

Lauren~You could always "buy" a charm bracelet for your DS for Christmas(?) This way...it makes it easier for future gifts~! *no matter how many times I hear/read that story....it always brings a smile to my face.

Disbug~Sorry for all your troubles, with the SWAN/DOLPHIN ressies. Call and ask for a specific associate (as Ozzie suggested), and I'm sure you'll have better luck. I'm enjoying some hot and soothing winter beverage (okay...it's COCOA!!) out of my SDS mug! With every sip...I thank you. ^_^

Enjoy the weekend...TTFN...DF99

 

[joshua4]

Dreamflight -- I was thinking about doing that - but I am not sure that she will actually wear a charm bracelet. I, on the other hand, probably would -- now there is an idea. Christmas? No, we are all Hanukah here -- which starts on December 19th this year. Just finished most of my shopping for the kids. Thrilled that mom will be with us for the family Hanukah party. Also thrilled that we have not had any snow in Chicago this year.

Anyway, back to my exciting tasks -- laundry, etc.

Lauren

 

[ozziewags]

Thanks everyone, for the warm endearments. IT'S SNOWING HERE!!!! YEA! So pretty. I love it.

 

[Mouseteacher]

joshua~ Happy Hannukah to you and your family. So good to hear from you and glad your children are on the mend.

DF~ from one chickadee to another --

ozzie~ that snowfall is headed to Boston tomorrow afternoon. It seems lately that whenever the Pats play a Florida team it snows - they play Jacksonville tomorrow and last week it was Miami. We have been forecast with 6-8". A mere flurry compared to last week's storm of over 2 feet!!!

Disbug~ I thought the same thing that DF posted - Christmas busy-ness can certainly affect our minds....or is it planning that WDW trip coming up in 13 days? Lucky you!